Sunday, December 11, 2011

Christmas in Little Rock, Arkansas

Fall has passed by so very quickly and it is difficult to believe it is already the Christmas season.  That is until snow happened last week.  Snow in early December in Little Rock, AR, that almost never happens!  And so the wake up call, it is winter, and the Christmas season is upon us.

That means there are great things happening.  The Arkansas Repertory Theater, minutes away from Robinwood, is presenting “A Christmas Carol, the Musical”.  Scrooge never looked so good!  All the downtown restaurants are geared toward diners with tickets to all sorts of activities and will make sure their guests finish up in time to make the show of their choice.

“Not Now Darling” is the play of choice at Murry’s Dinner Play House until New Year’s Eve.  This delightful play makes for a fun and lighthearted evening.  We’ve had guests of all ages attend this play and come back with nothing but great things to say about the cast.

Ice skating is so traditional in most parts of the country, but not here, until Arvest River Market Ice opens in the RiverMarket  just in time to make Little Rock feel just a little more like home for some folks.  Those of us who did not grow up on ice do our best to not embarrass ourselves, while others glide like experts around the rink.

Come join us at Robinwood and feel the magic of Christmas, Little Rock Ar style.

Thursday, October 20, 2011

Where The (Downtown) Locals Are Seen

Little Rock is a small city.  I think everyone is aware of that.  But we are very lucky that we have such wonderful entrepreneurs making life so very interesting for us.

Over the weekend, I realized that the two wonderful wine bars, Zin and Crush, are so very different, but such wonderful additions to the downtown Little Rock neighborhood.

Zin is very urbane and sophisticated with it’s very cool vibe.  Michael and Troy have created such a wonderful haven just inside the River Market.  The selection of wines never fails to satisfy the pallet, and you never know who will be through the door next.

Crush is on the other side of the Arkansas River in Argenta.  It is so very earthy and warm.  This time of year the patio provides a perfect backdrop for gathering friends.  Joe’s happy hour specials are always sure to please.

Both wine bars have live entertainment of Saturday, and wonderful tastings.   Zin on Wednesday, and Crush on Monday.  Both are sure to please whichever mood the guest is currently in.  Just minutes away from both of these great wine bars,

Robinwood Bed and Breakfast has the pleasure of enjoying these treasures.  Yes, I think we are very lucky indeed.

Tuesday, September 20, 2011

Where the (Downtown) Locals Eat in Little Rock, AR

People who choose to live in urban neighborhoods tend to be a little different.    While we are adventurous on many levels, we tend to stay fairly close to home when it comes to dining.  I think it is kind of like the “Cheers” thing, we want everyone to know our names.  Four blocks from the Governor’s Mansion, and P. Allen Smith’s garden,  Robinwood Bed and Breakfast is in the middle of Little Rock’s historic neighborhoods.  This blog will come in several parts, since I know I will miss some of the restaurants that are beloved by my neighbors, and will hear about it later.

Let’s start with Caio.  It is a wonderful Italian restaurant at 405 W. 7th Street.  I send guests here all the time.  The food is wonderful and the service is great.  It has a really quaint and cozy atmosphere that makes everyone feel welcome.  Lunch is very reasonably priced, and dinner can be moderate or expensive depending on selection.  And they do have a great selection!  I have never been to Caio without seeing a neighbor.

Then there is the Copper Grill at 3rd and Cumberland.  What a modern and sleek restaurant!  This time of year, the patio is a great place to have an appetizer and a glass of wine and watch the world go by.  Great burgers with onion rings or sweet potato fries for a hearty appetite or wonderful soups for a light meal.  The bar area is a spot many of the locals meet for a quick drink before dinner.

Can’t forget the Capital Hotel on Markham.  The Capital Grill has the best deep fried black eyed peas I’ve ever had.  As a matter of fact, the only ones I’ve ever had.  The menu is great for guest coming in a little late and wanting to grab a relaxing dinner to finish off the evening.  Ashley’s in the Capital Hotel, is always a crowd pleaser.   The lunch menu is as affordable as the atmosphere is elegant.  And any special evening is much more special when spent at Ashley’s.  The service is impeccable.  The food is wonderful.  And the wine list is impressive.  Before or after a meal, the architecture of the building is incredible.  Explore the lobby and see history at its finest.  Built just after the Civil War, the Capital Hotel is the crown jewel of Little Rock.

More later…..

Thursday, September 15, 2011

September in Little Rock, What’s Happening…

The weather really has changed.  Mornings in the 50 degree range, days in the 70′s, perfect to get out and see what Little Rock has to offer.  The Arkansas Repertory Theater has just undergone a wonderful renovation and had it’s gala premier of Ring Of Fire.  This play offers wonderful music and stories of Johnny Cash, an Arkansas original.  Jason Edwards performed this role on Broadway in New York under the direction of John Carter Cash.  He reprises the role at the Rep from September 15 through October9.  Little Rock has been waiting patiently for the new season to get under way, and what a great play to start the season.

The Weekend Theater is opening THE GUYS, September 15-24th.  This is a tribute to the firefights  and other heroes who lost their lives on 9/11 in New York City.  Located in the heart of Little Rock, this theater does a wonderful job of casting and delivery.

Murry’s Dinner Theater is also opening a new show this week, PURLIE, based on the award winning play by Ossie Davis.  The cast of Murry’s makes every play special and the audience feels intimately connected to what is going on just feet away.   A visit to Murry’s always leaves me with a smile and delightful memories.

Little Rock is full of live music, wonderful restaurants, and special events that are the magic in any visit to a city.  Just blocks away from the Rep, the Weekend Theater, and minutes away from Murry’s,   Robinwood Bed and Breakfast welcomes you to Little Rock.

Tuesday, August 23, 2011

Fall is coming to Little Rock, AR

Fall at Robinwood B&B

I know it is still August, but if you use just a little imagination, you can see the changes coming.  The temperatures are still warm, but we are just a few weeks away from cool weather.  Labor Day Weekend has always been the signal to start looking for that light jacket to carry in the car for those evenings that start warm and end just a little chilly. What a perfect time to sit on the front porch and visit with guests and neighbors.  The days will be just a little shorter and that early dusk is a great time to light the torches and enjoy the glow.

Little Rock weather is best in the fall.  It is crisp and clean with light winds and clear days.  We start to think about Razorback Football,  the Arkansas State Fair, and all that beautiful color!  Walks by the Arkansas River will be wonderfully cool and inviting.  Grab a bike and hit the the trail to the new Two Rivers Bridge.  The animals at the Zoo seem much more lively and glad to great visitors.  The River Market will be full of music and art to welcome guests to town.  It is definitely the time of year we love to be outside in Arkansas.

Restaurants are thinking about how to adjust their menus with more spices and a heavier fare.  At Robinwood B&B, we are doing the same thing.  Apples and pumpkins are making their way into our planning process.  Pecans in pancakes?  Maybe……

Tuesday, June 21, 2011

“On a Hot Summer Night…..”

The weather is warming up, and folks are looking for something cool and wonderful to do on these hot summer nights.

Little Rock has plenty of cool venues to to satisfy the varying tastes of its guests and inhabitants.  The Arkansas Repertory Theater is presenting “The 39 Steps” until June 26.  This intriguing drama will keep you at the edge of your seat until the very end.

Murry’s has “Always Patsy Cline” until June 26, it is replaced by “Everybody Loves Opal”.  These two extremely different plays offer a truly interesting evening to their audiences.  One for musical lovers and the other an outrageously funny  approach to murder.

With its comedy clubs, dueling piano bars and night clubs; after hours in Little Rock  can take any form you are looking for.  If you enjoy the balmy southern evenings outside, many of our restaurants offer local flavor in food and entertainment.  Minutes away from all these,  we invite you to join us, here in Little Rock for a splendid summer night at Robinwood Bed and Breakfast


Monday, June 13, 2011

Must See for Arkansas Civil War Buffs…..

After 150 years and way too many movies, many of us have an unrealistic view of life in Arkansas in the Civil War era.  The Historic Arkansas Museum’s feature this month makes a great use of a classic movie, “Gone With the Wind” and visual material from that difficult time in our history to clear the air.

Movie costumes, photos, and outtakes,  allow visitors to enter the world of Scarlett O’Hara and Rhett Butler, with all it’s glamor and romance.  Real photos and artifacts draw the viewer to another world altogether.  One where life was anything but romantic, real people living very real lives.

Minutes away from Historic Arkansas Museum, we invite you to enjoy a glimpse of the reality of our local history.


Monday, June 6, 2011

Elvis IS in the Building!

Little Rock, AR welcomes Elvis to the William Jefferson Clinton Presidential Library.  In partnership with Graceland, the Clinton Library is featuring a wonderful exhibit of memorabilia from Elvis’s extensive career.  The red MB from “Blue Hawaii”  and shirt from “Jailhouse Rock” .

A pictorial exhibit developed by the Smithsonian Institute, Elvis at 21, Photographs by Alfred Wertheimer,  provide 40 insightful views of a talented young man on his way to history.

Just a few minutes away from the Clinton Library, we invite you to visit history in two very different eras.  www.youtube.com/watch?v=zRu3tw9fYxE

Thursday, May 12, 2011

Riverfest 2011 is Almost Here!

It is almost Memorial Day Weekend, and the Riverfest folks have done it again!  The musical line-up is fabulously diverse, with fantastic bands and artists. Both sides of the river will be lined with musical talent minutes away from Robinwood.

The activities begin Friday, May 27 around 6 PM and finish LATE Sunday, May 29th.  With acts like Poison, Big Smith, BareNaked Ladies, Nelly, and the Charlie Daniels Band, there is something for everyone.

Need something to do between shows?  Hit the Kid Zone.  Run a 5K.  There is even a gaming area to show your skills!

Anyway you look at it, Riverfest is what is happening in Little Rock for Memorial Day Weekend.

Monday, May 2, 2011

Staycations in Little Rock, AR

Why would anyone consider Little Rock, Arkansas a good location for a Staycation?  Are you kidding me?

Little Rock offers so many wonderful options, and because of the size of the city, relatively close together.

Like the outdoors?  Climb Pinnacle Mountain in the morning and rent a bike in the afternoon.  Walk the River Path and enjoy the beauty of the Arkansas River –  from the middle.  The Big Damn Bridge offers an incredible view!

Big name concerts play a Verizon Arena all the time, pick a favorite and spend time in the River Market while you’re waiting.  Live music abounds at Little Rocks restaurants and clubs.  The Ark. Repertory Theater presents wonderful traveling shows.  We even have a long standing dinner theater called Murry’s for those who want a taste of local actors!

Love museums?  The Arkansas Art Center, Historic Arkansas Museum, William Jefferson Clinton Presidential Museum, (to name just a few!) can easily fill several days.

What is your pleasure?  Find it in Little Rock!

Wednesday, April 6, 2011

Early Spring in Little Rock, AR

Spring has come early to Little Rock.  The azaleas and dogwood are blooming.  Trees all over the city are leafing out and green is certainly the color of the month.  With temperatures reaching into the mid 80′s this weekend, it feels more like May than April.  In a beautiful historic neighborhood, we have a front row seat.

Sitting on the front porch, I am grateful for the beautiful homes cloaked in blossoms and color.  The warmth for the early spring can change a dreary morning into a dazzling day, full of promises of adventure.

Mount Holly Cemetery a few blocks away, is beautiful with  Irises, flowering trees, and carpets of wild flowers.  There is no better time to stroll through its peaceful lanes.

Thursday, March 31, 2011

Opening Day Coming to Dickey-Stephens Park

The Arkansas Traveler Baseball is 14 days from opening day!  Dickey-Stephens Park is working around the clock to ensure that Opening Day is spectacular.  Baseball always brings to mind breezy nights with a hot dog and drink watching the players on the field and the kids in the stands.  It has something for everyone.

Minutes from the Ballpark, we provide a return to simpler days in a historic neighborhood.  Plan your trip to see the Travelers play and let us make that memory even more special at Robinwood.

Friday, March 18, 2011

Dr. Suess Visits Little Rock, AR

Most of us grew up reading the amazing stories of a rhyming Dr Suess.  My favorite was always GREEN EGGS AND HAM.

I could never get enough books to keep me busy.  Well, right now Dr. Suess is in Little Rock at the Clinton Library in a very special way.  His art and times are on display.  Most of us were never aware of the wonderful political satire of Theodor Seuss Geisel.  The genius of his art makes it timeless.  Stay ten minutes away in a wonderfully quiet neighborhood,  and don’t miss the wonderful exhibit, here until May 22, 2011

Tuesday, March 8, 2011

Fun and Free in Little Rock, AR

Looking for something interesting and different to do this week?  Try the Dr Jon Taylor Comedy Hypnosis Show on Thursday March 10, 2011.  It’s at MacArthur Museum of Ar Military History and it’s FREE!!  You do need to make a reservation to attend, so send your name and number of guests to  www.evitereservations@hotmail.com.

Not familiar with Dr. Jon?

Enjoy! 

Thursday, February 17, 2011

The Little Rock, AR Marathon is on Count Down

We are sixteen days from the Little Rock Marathon.  On March 6, 2011, the race will be on!
in 2010, 8,700 people joined the race.  Located just 2 blocks from the 10 mile water stop, Robinwood is an active participant in the fun.  We will be at the water stop cheering on the runners.  Come join us.  Whether you are a runner or just want to watch, Robinwood is located just minutes from the starting area.  If you’ve never experienced something like this, it is an incredible site to watch this many athletes at so many levels working so hard to finish their race.

This historic neighborhood comes out in numbers to watch and give out water.  You can’t have more fun than we have helping out such a wonderful event.

Friday, January 28, 2011

Feels Like Spring…

With temperatures in the mid 60′s today, and 70′s tomorrow, we are reminded that winter will not last forever.  Very soon the flower’s will bloom and the days will be longer.  Walking by the Arkansas River will be a wonderful treat.

Robinwood is only 20 blocks from the River, and a short distance to the River Market.  Make plans now to watch the azaleas bloom in a beautifully restored neighborhood.