LITTLE ROCK, Ark — (KTHV) –Stifft Station is one of the most progressive neighborhoods in Little Rock.
Homes are being restored and renovated and businesses are moving in. People who live and work in the neighborhood are encouraging people to get out and explore where they live.
“We’ve got some really uniquely-themed houses that really embrace their creative side,” Nicole Ellis said.
For the past three years, Nicole Ellis and her family have called the Stifft Station neighborhood of Little Rock home.
“Stifft Station definitely has its own feel. We’re not super posh, we are pretty working class and family oriented. We’ve got funky little dives like Whitewater and Oyster Bar,” Ellis said.
Located just west of the Arkansas State Capitol, the historic neighborhood was once considered part of West Little Rock in the early 20th century and has grown ever since.
“We’ve had several businesses move in and that are thriving. Stone’s Throw has put in a new taproom,” Ellis said.
For Ellis, the best way to see it all is by taking a stroll.
“There’s not a particular rhyme or reason to strolling. It’s just getting our and seeing your neighborhood,” Ellis said. “We noticed how neat the houses were. The interesting yard art they have. We’ve gotten to meet and know some of our neighbors.”
Her evening walks with her family inspired her to create an Instagram showcasing photos of her quirky little neighborhood.
“The Instagram is Strolling Stifft Station and it’s based on what we see while we stroll around Stifft station and Capitol View neighborhoods,” Ellis said. “We started off really small and simple, but over 6 months we’ve grown to just shy of 500 followers.”
To mark the first day of summer, Ellis and other businesses are hosting the first ever Stifft Station Summer Stroll, an event aimed at bringing the neighborhood together.
“There are houses throughout the Stifft Station and Capitol View neighborhoods that are going to have lemonade stands and yard games and ice cream," Ellis said. "Stones Throw, at their tap room, is running some happy hour specials and Stifft Stationgifts is going to be offering some summer specials as well."
Stifft Station Gifts is one of a few businesses taking part in the event. Owner, Cindy Booth, is looking forward to seeing new faces in her shop.
“I think it will be wonderful for the area for more people to stroll and meet more of their neighbors,” Cindy Booth said.
The Stifft Station Summer Stroll is happening Friday, June 21 from 6 to 8 p.m.
