Coronavirus doesn’t seem to be going away any time soon, and it’s on all of us to continue to wear masks and socially distance. How people will celebrate the holidays – or if – is a question each of us will have to answer for ourselves, whatever we feel is the safest choice for our families.
Have family coming from out-of-town? We’ve got planning tips and special holiday offers for you.
With that in mind, here are some ideas for your small group to still enjoy some time together without being cooped up in the house while staying safe and healthy.
Explore miles of trails
Look, it’s Arkansas – it could be 60s or 70s well into December (or it could be the year we finally get a white Christmas! We can dream, anyway). North Little Rock has hundreds of miles of trails to explore, including the Arkansas River Trail and Emerald Park. If you have family that didn’t bring bikes, renting from Rock Town River Outfitters is very simple.
Take Aim Axe Throwing
This is one is for the adults. Take Aim Axe Throwing, located at 500 N Magnolia Street in North Little Rock, is a fun way to bond, blow off some steam and try out a new skill! Think of it like a gun range, but with axes. Bring in your own food and drinks from the nearby Argenta Outdoor Dining District. Take Aim is open during the week for reservations only to ensure social distancing. Friday night and Saturday are open to walk-ins (Friday nights are also BOGO!).
Play at Burns Park
If you’ve got kids (and adults) that need to burn off some energy, Burns Park is the place for you with several playgrounds, two disc golf courses, golf course, soccer fields, dog park and access to the Arkansas River Trail. There are several pavilions throughout the park that you can reserve ahead of time for your group to picnic. One Heart Playground, our city’s first accessible playground for all ages and abilities, just received some new additions.
North Little Rock Walking History Tours (coming soon)
This one and a half hour walking tour will tell the stories of Argenta’s history from the time of its founding through the rebirth and revival. How was Argenta founded? Why do some think it was cursed? You will learn about the original buildings, most of which still stand, the stories connected to those buildings and the inhabitants, some of whom never left. Stay tuned for more dates and ticket information.
Comedy at The Joint Theater
At The Joint Theater, “you’ll be socially distanced and so will they!” The Joint at 301 Main Street in North Little Rock is bringing you much-needed laughs every week: Improv Comedy Wednesdays at 8 p.m., Punch Line Stand-Up Comedy on Tuesdays at 8 p.m. and Friday night performances of their latest original comedy, The Main Thing Still Live! Seating is limited for all events and masks are required. Refreshments are available for purchase and will be brought to you.
Argenta Outdoor Dining District
One of the easiest ways to dine together as a small group is to check out the Argenta Outdoor Dining District on Friday nights and Saturdays. Main Street is closed and tents are set up for downtown restaurant patrons to dine outside. One upside is this is the perfect set up for groups that can’t decide what or where they want to eat – here, everyone can choose from 10 different restaurants and still dine together at the same table. It is outdoors, so keep an eye on the weather and bring jackets if you need them.
Come early Saturday and stop by the Argenta Farmers Market!
North Little Rock Scavenger Hunt
Find all of the amazing murals, sculptures and photo-worthy landmarks in North Little Rock, Arkansas, in the North Little Rock Scavenger Hunt. All are outdoors, free and easy to access by car or a short walk. Don’t forget to take photos of your finds and share on social with the hashtag #ExploreNLR for the chance to be featured.
Whatever you choose to do this holiday season, we wish you and yours happiness and good health. Together or apart, we can still find ways to connect, show our love for one another and experience joy.
Central Arkansas Escape Rooms
Central Arkansas Escape Rooms at 108 West F Avenue in North Little Rock is “opening soon,” according to their Facebook page. It’s a lot of fun for small groups to challenge their puzzle and problem-solving skills in a race against the clock. They’re already accepting reservations for groups of 2-6 starting November 14, so you might want to go ahead and make a reservation now (we noticed Christmas is already sold out).
For newbies: you are not really “locked” in a room, and you have a staff member to give hints if you get stuck.
Ways to dine together:
Maybe this will be a good time for quiet reflection, enjoying a good book by the fire or binging new Netflix holiday movies. In that case, check out our restaurants with curbside or delivery. Whatever you decide to do this holiday season, we wish you and yours happiness and good health.
