It's the forward-thinking attitude and the culture. The young rock-and-roll bands not yet famous but soon to be discovered. The architecture that blows your mind, and the absolute ease of the entire town. It's pure fun, smart shopping, and delicious dining. With all this, Little Rock grabs hold of you and won't let go.

That's what it did to me. This capital city ranks as one of my personal favorites. Follow my lead for a good time.

Too, Too Easy
While you're in Little Rock, you'll want to be in the middle of the action. That can be summed up in three words: President Clinton Avenue. A canary yellow trolley travels up and down the street so you don't need a car to navigate this part of town. Just climb aboard the River Rail Trolley (50 cents adults, free ages 5 and younger). It stops at the Clinton Presidential Center, The Peabody hotel, and various other places.

Get Going
Three days were just not enough—the city offers so much activity. If there's one thing you can't miss, though, it's the William J. Clinton Presidential Center.

Whatever your politics, this place rocks. The architecture, rich with views both inside and out, left me staggering. Start on the top floor of the museum to see an exact replica of the Oval Office (look for the blue Play-Doh "DAD" on the desk, the dog drink coaster, and the family pictures).

Then work your way down to the lower level. Here you'll spy childhood drawings and, of course, some trademark saxophones. Admission costs $7 adults, $5 seniors, and kids under 6 get in free. You can purchase a headset tour for $5, but you really don't need it.

Also visit the Clinton Museum Store, a short drive or trolley ride away. Among the cool offerings: a bobblehead doll of the President, an "I Miss Bill" T-shirt, and a book of Clinton family paper dolls.

Food and Some Fun
Vermillion Water Grille features a raw bar and fresh exotic fish dishes in a white-tablecloth atmosphere. Bosco's brews ales on-site, serves amazing meals, and offers outdoor diners a view of musicians playing at the Riverfront Amphitheatre overlooking the Arkansas River. Top choice: the salmon, which costs $13 at lunch and $18 at dinner (size stays the same).

Sticky Fingerz Rock-n-Roll Chicken Shack, a Bohemian joint with folk art and wacky decor, brings in crowds with its music. The tunes sound even better with the fried chicken fingers, which come with a choice of dipping sauces and coatings, from Voodoo to Creamy Cilantro. For more entertainment, check out Crush Wine Bar, where locals relax after work, or Willy D's, a rotating piano player spot.