Pine Bluff was originally a trading post founded by Joseph Bonne in 1819. It is the second oldest city in Arkansas with some of the houses dating from the Civil War period.
The Arkansas Railroad Museum in Pine Bluff is housed in the former repair shops of the Cotton Belt Railway. On display are vintage railroad cars, a steam locomotive, old photographs and other train related items. Engine 819 and Engine 336 are housed at the museum. In its day the big engines could pull 100 freight cars!
Hours:
9am-3pm; Closed: Sun
Always closed on: New Year's Day (January 1), Thanksgiving - USA (4th Thursday, November ), Christmas Eve - Christian (December 24), Christmas - Christian (December 25)
The Southeast Arkansas Arts and Science Center offers permanent and changing exhibits by local and international artists. The building contains three art galleries, a science gallery, a theatre and a studio classroom.
Paintings, sculpture, collages, photos and other works are displayed at the Southeast Arkansas Arts and Science Center.
Address: Arts and Science Center of Southeast Arkansas, 701 Main Street, Pine Bluff, AR 71601, United States
Phone: 1 (870) 536-3375, Fax: 1 (870) 536-3380
The Band Museum displays musical instruments and provides information on the history of American bands and their music. Displays of musical instruments date from the early 1700s. Visitors will also enjoy visiting the oldest working soda fountain in Arkansas.
Address: The Band Museum, 423 Main Street, Pine Bluff, AR 71601, United States
Phone: 1 (870) 534-4676, Fax: 1 (870) 534-4676
Hours:
10am-4pm; Closed: Sun, Sat
Always closed on: New Year's Day (January 1), American Independance Day (July 4), Thanksgiving - USA (4th Thursday, November ), Christmas - Christian (December 25), Christmas Eve - Christian (December 24)
Tips: Visit by appointment on Saturdays and Sundays.
The Jefferson County Historical Museum is located in the Union Station train depot. The museum offers a variety of displays on American history including Victorian artifacts, clothing used by early pioneers, and early transportation displays.
Hours:
9am-4pm; Sat:10am-2pm; Closed: Sun
Always closed on: New Year's Day (January 1), American Independance Day (July 4), Thanksgiving - USA (4th Thursday, November ), Christmas - Christian (December 25), Christmas Eve - Christian (December 24)
The Desha County Museum consists of several buildings representing a pioneer village with homes and shops. Also on display are farm implements, war memorabilia, and a collection of stone knives and projectile points. The Desha County Museum recreates life in a typical farming community.