Esse Purse Museum
Explore a century of American women's lives through their handbags at this unique museum in Little Rock's SoMa district.
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Fewer crowds, more relaxed viewing
Esse Purse Museum
Best Time
Fewer crowds, more relaxed viewing
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Explore a century of American women's lives through their handbags at this unique museum in Little Rock's SoMa district.
"This museum is so magical, I almost expected to see Amelia Earhart’s flight bag!"
📸 Capture the Details
The displays are rich with detail; take your time to zoom in on the items inside the purses.
🛍️ Don't Miss the Store
The gift shop offers unique finds, including beautiful purses and souvenirs.
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
Decades of Handbags
Main Exhibition Hall
Trace the changing styles and societal roles of women through a century of iconic purses.
Contents of the Purse
Display Cases
See what women carried daily, from vintage cosmetics to personal mementos, revealing intimate stories.
Temporary Exhibits
Special Exhibition Area
Explore rotating displays that often highlight local history or specific fashion themes.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
A Unique Glimpse into Women's History
+1Location and Nearby Attractions
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
📸 Capture the Details
The displays are rich with detail; take your time to zoom in on the items inside the purses.
🛍️ Don't Miss the Store
The gift shop offers unique finds, including beautiful purses and souvenirs.
🚶♀️ Explore SoMa
Combine your museum visit with exploring the charming SoMa district's shops and eateries.
⏳ Allow Ample Time
Give yourself at least an hour to fully appreciate the historical narratives presented.
Tips
from all over the internet
📸 Capture the Details
The displays are rich with detail; take your time to zoom in on the items inside the purses.
🛍️ Don't Miss the Store
The gift shop offers unique finds, including beautiful purses and souvenirs.
🚶♀️ Explore SoMa
Combine your museum visit with exploring the charming SoMa district's shops and eateries.
⏳ Allow Ample Time
Give yourself at least an hour to fully appreciate the historical narratives presented.
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Visitors rave about the Esse Purse Museum, calling it a 'magical' and 'fascinating' gem that offers a unique historical perspective through its impressive collection of purses and their contents. Many appreciate the beautiful curation and the insightful narrative of women's lives across the 20th century. The adjacent gift shop is also a popular highlight.
"This Museum Is So Magical, It Throws Shade at Your Clueless Carry-On! ✨
Listen up, fellow travelers: you think you've seen it all? Think again. The ESSE Purse Museum & Store in Little Rock isn't just a place to look at bags; it’s a full-on masterclass in style, history, and pure, unadulterated female energy.
This museum is so magical, I almost expected to see Amelia Earhart’s flight bag!
From the tiny, beaded flapper purses of the 1920s to the bold, structured bags of the 1940s, this place tells a whole story. It’s the visual history of women's liberation, one handbag at a time.
The vintage Pan Am satchels and the rhinestone-studded fans tell a tale of a woman who wanted more than just a place in the home—she wanted the entire world.
This isn't just a museum; it's a history lesson. It’s a sassy, chic reminder that what a woman carries tells you everything about where she’s been and where she’s going. So, go ahead. I dare you to find a more iconic collection. You won't.
#ESSEPurseMuseum 👜
#LittleRockAR 💁♀️
#ArkansasHistory #ARkansas #MuseumLife 🏛️
#PursePower 💅
#VintageVibes 😎
#TravelStyle ✈️
#WomensHistory 👑
#SassyAndChic #YouCantSitWithUs
#SparkleAndShine ✨"
Take Flight With Monica
"What fun little museum! Walking through women's lives over the decades with the handbags they carried & the items inside. Aspirin was in every single era. I have thoughts! 🤣
Couldn't leave without a purse from the gift shop, too. 😍"
Caroline Norris
"The Esse Purse Museum is an absolute gem! The collection is very impressive and so very beautifully curated. The evolution of fashion accessories through American history is absolutely fascinating and the museum takes you through each decade with an intricate display of handbags, cosmetics and pop culture. This is a must stop, and the museum shop is stunning, with prices for every budget."
Savannah Bee
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
The Esse Purse Museum is located in the SoMa (South Main) district of Little Rock, Arkansas. It's easily accessible by car, with street parking available. Many visitors find it convenient to combine with exploring other shops in the SoMa area.
While specific bus routes can vary, Little Rock does have public transportation options. It's recommended to check the local transit authority's schedule for the most up-to-date information on routes serving the SoMa district.
Street parking is generally available around the museum in the SoMa district. During peak times, you might need to circle a bit, but visitors often find spots within a short walk.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
The museum is typically open Thursday through Saturday until 6 PM. It's always a good idea to check their official website or social media for the most current hours, especially around holidays.
Admission fees are generally affordable, making it an accessible cultural experience. Check the museum's official website for the most up-to-date pricing information.
While advance ticket purchase might not always be necessary, it's a good option if you're visiting during a busy period or want to secure your entry. Check their website for online booking options.
Yes, the museum offers a unique historical perspective that can be engaging for a wide range of ages. It's a great educational outing for families and individuals interested in fashion and history.
📸 📸 Photography
Photography is generally allowed for personal use, but it's always best to check for any specific restrictions, especially regarding flash photography, to protect the delicate exhibits.
The beautifully curated displays of purses and their contents offer numerous photo opportunities. The vintage aesthetics and unique items make for visually striking shots.
Each decade's display offers a unique visual story. The intricate details of the older beaded purses and the bold designs of later eras are often highlights for photographers.
🍽️ 🛍️ Shopping & Dining
Yes, the museum features a stunning gift shop with a variety of items, including purses, accessories, and souvenirs, catering to different budgets.
You can expect to find a curated selection of unique items, often inspired by the museum's collection, including stylish purses, fashion accessories, and locally made goods.
The SoMa district is known for its diverse culinary scene. You'll find several cafes and restaurants nearby offering various cuisines, perfect for a post-museum meal.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
The museum is also located in the walkable SoMa district, which has other interesting shops and places to eat, making it easy to plan a fun outing for the whole family. 🛍️ Budget Travelers
Furthermore, the museum's gift shop offers a range of items at various price points, allowing visitors to find a memorable souvenir without breaking the bank. 💖 Couples & Friends
+1 Afterward, you can enjoy the vibrant atmosphere of the SoMa district, perhaps grabbing a coffee or a meal at one of the many local eateries, making for a perfect relaxed day out. Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
The Story Behind the Collection
+1 The museum's permanent collection spans from 1900 to 1999, meticulously curated to showcase the evolution of fashion, societal norms, and women's roles across the 20th century. Each purse is more than just an accessory; it's a time capsule, often displayed with the items women carried within, offering intimate glimpses into their daily lives, aspirations, and challenges. Visitors often remark on the surprising insights gained from these displays. The presence of items like aspirin in nearly every era, or the specific types of cosmetics and personal effects found, tell a story of continuity and change.
+1 This unique approach transforms the museum from a simple display of vintage bags into a compelling narrative of female empowerment and personal history, making it a truly one-of-a-kind experience. +1Experiencing the SoMa District
SoMa itself has a rich history and a growing reputation as a cultural hub. Walking through the district, you'll discover a variety of shops offering everything from vintage clothing to artisanal goods.
The proximity of the museum to these other attractions makes it an ideal starting point or a delightful addition to a day spent discovering the character of Little Rock. 
Social
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