Think of Midtown as a sprawling center of retailers and large employers â€" a convenient area that's easily accessible to anywhere thanks to major roadways. Cantrell Road and Interstate 630 pass through Midtown as they link downtown and west Little Rock, a rapidly growing area that has blurred Midtown's boundaries.

As the city’s development rolls westward, what used to be the Midtown’s western edge is now the middle of the city, but downtown is still the eastern edge.

Major landmarks line the primary North-South artery, University Avenue, including two rapidly growing teaching institutions: the University of Arkansas for Medical Sciences and the University of Arkansas at Little Rock. UAMS boasts an impressive roster of world-renowned physicians, while UALR is gaining a reputation for its nanotechnology center.

Shopping

Shopping centers consist of the recently renovated Park Plaza Mall and the neighboring upscale outdoor shopping center known as Midtowne Little Rock. A third nearby retail development is in the works. Other staples include St. Vincent Medical Center, the Little Rock Zoo, War Memorial Stadium and War Memorial Golf Course.

Residential areas surround Midtown's business centers, and the neighborhoods are primarily full of ranch-style variations and modern homes. Established from the 1950s forward, these areas are lush with mature landscaping and canopied with trees. More recently developed areas such as River Ridge â€" the homes are on a ridge overlooking the Arkansas River â€" still enjoy new construction and renovations.

Outdoors

If you're a runner or walker who's not used to hills, head to the outdoor track at Scott Field at Forest Heights Middle School on Evergreen. It's great for both recreational and serious athletes and is open to the public after school and on weekends.