Little Rock is a buzz in mid-October as the Arkansas State Fair fills barns and midway with livestock and lively folk. This fair offers an entertainment schedule that has an even sampling from pop, country, rock and jazz acts. The real shows are the 4-H competitions in which farm kids from middle school through high school aged display their animals.

Scholarships and first place prize ribbons are on the line while nervous farm families wait in the stands as judging reveals the best of this year's farm animals. Out in the midway fairgoers eat the array of foods not found at the mall food court. Elephant ears, turkey legs, and fresh lemonade are often to be purchased from the concession trailers. Grandstand shows include monster trucks and rodeos in the on going display.

Travelers to the Little Rock area will find a modern airport recently spruced up to the tune of $180 million. Flights from major cities on major airlines are mostly on time. The traveler will find several rental car companies and two limousine services. Little Rock also has a city bus line.

Hotels in Little Rock are numerous and new ranging from one to four stars. Most major chains are available in the area and rooms tend to be reasonably priced. Book early for the State Fair or other events though as good rooms and suites go quickly. Privately owned camp grounds offer lodging all year round in Little Rock unlike some areas which only offer summer camping.

Once in Little Rock visitors will find a beautiful skyline along the Arkansas River. The founders named the city for a small rock formation on this river in the 1700's. Today this modern city offers museums, shopping, and fine dining and is the location of the Clinton Presidential Library along with the fun of the state fair.