Easy. That’s the way we would describe downtown/Quapaw Quarter living. Grocery and hardware stores? Check. Bakeries? Check. Music store? Check. Some of the most popular restaurants in Little Rock? Check. Many of Little Rock’s hot spots in which to socialize? Check. Most of Little Rock’s cultural hubs, including five museums? Check. Neighbors who are passionate about the neighborhood and committed to its revitalization efforts? Check. And the list goes on.
We’ve lived in the Quapaw Quarter for four years and have loved every minute of it. From shopping and dining out, to exercising and socializing with friends, it seems that increasingly our life is centered around the 15 blocks from Clinton Avenue to our home in the Quapaw Quarter. On a recent Saturday morning, in the span of just over two hours, we traveled up and down Main Street for three completely different purposes. First, for a trip to the farmers market; then for a run; and, finally, to go back to the River Market for lunch. We are quite entrenched in our neighborhood.
In the time we’ve lived here, a few things have become clear about our neighborhood. First, many of the residents are long-timers committed to seeing our neighborhood thrive. They’ve lived in the Quapaw Quarter for an average of 15-20 years, with many living here for more than 30. These residents — many of whom have refurbished two or more historic homes — saw the potential in their neighborhood that waxed and waned, but they knew it would see a resurgence like it is now experiencing. These residents were visionaries and laid the groundwork for the development and stability that the Quapaw Quarter and South Main (SoMa) now enjoy.
Second, few Little Rock neighborhoods offer what the Quapaw Quarter offers. This includes architectural gems ranging from small cottages to grand homes taking up half a city block; 120-plus-year-old homes down the street from new homes designed to echo the neighborhood’s historic character (including ours); a community where diversity — be it racial, economic, sexual orientation or other types — is the norm not the exception, and is celebrated; and, a neighborhood that treasures its historic past while it supports the social, economic and cultural endeavors underway to solidify its future.
Finally, Quapaw Quarter residents are firmly invested in the neighborhood’s success. The business development of SoMa during the past few years has taken root almost as fast as it appeared, including the Bernice Garden, the Green Corner Store, Nayles Medical Clinic and the Root Café. All the while, longtime SoMa businesses such as Community Bakery and Piano Kraft continue to thrive. Quapaw Quarter residents come out in droves to support these businesses, and are hopeful for more. What’s most exciting about our neighborhood is it is still growing and developing, and there’s every reason to believe that the positive transformation underway will continue. Because of this, we believe the best is yet to come!
Jean and Rodney’s
Quapaw Quarter Top 10
1. Festivals/parades. Our neighborhood has become the place for festivals. The Quapaw/SoMa area alone hosts the Food Truck Festival, the Cornbread Festival, and coming soon — the Cheese Dip Festival. We also have a large annual Mardi Gras parade complete with a jazz band.
2. Great running routes. We are runners, and our routes generally take us to the Clinton Library, over downtown’s many bridges, through Argenta or on parts of the River Trail. We’re fortunate to have both scenic routes and challenging terrain within a mile of our home.
3. The Bernice Garden (1401 S. Main St.). Food Truck Thursday, Heirloom Seed Swap, the Vintage Market and the annual tree lighting are just a handful of the events that happen in this gorgeous sculpture garden. Anita Davis has given the neighborhood and city a treasure in this space.
4. Farmers markets. We’re fortunate to have two fantastic farmers markets on our side of the river. It’s not uncommon for us to visit the River Market Farmers Market on Saturday morning and the Bernice Garden Market on Sunday morning.
5. Garden Party. This is an event that is truly unique to the Quapaw Quarter. This monthly party has been going on for over 25 years and brings together neighbors for a potluck at a different neighborhood house each month. It’s a wonderful way to get to know your neighbors, develop friendships and visit the unique homes in the neighborhood.
6. South on Main (1304 S. Main St.). From incredible food and specialty cocktails to great live music, South on Main has it all. We also enjoy the unique events that Matt and Amy Bell host, like “heART of the bar,” which connects their patrons with Arkansas artists.
7. Ron Robinson Theater (1 Count Pulaski Way). Although this theater has been open less than six months, we are here regularly watching movies hosted by CALS, GATHR films (while they lasted), and the Little Rock Film Festival. With its state-of-the-art visual and sound systems there’s no better place to watch a film.
8. Zin Wine & Beer Bar (300 River Market Ave., Suite 1). Owners Troy and Michael have created a hip, relaxed place to unwind with great wine or beer. Whether we’re there to enjoy a glass or two, or Rodney’s band is playing, it’s always a good time.
9. Esse Purse Museum (1510 S. Main St.). Named one of the world’s hottest museums for 2014 by Smarter Travel, this museum is another gift from Anita Davis to the neighborhood and city. The space is beautiful, the exhibits are smartly done and the gift shop — with its eclectic offerings — has become our go-to place for gifts.
10. Maduro Cigar Bar (109 Main St.). After playing an event downtown, you’re likely to find Rodney and his band here winding down with a cigar and a drink.