5 Favorite Local Coffee Shops Near Little Rock, AR
There is nothing quite like a perfectly brewed cup of coffee in the early morning to start your day off right. With so many varieties of coffee drinks nowadays, you can always find one that will hit just the right spot. We have compiled our list of the best local coffee shops in the Little Rock, AR area to make your next coffee run easier (and tastier) than ever.
5 Favorite Local Coffee Shops Near Little Rock, AR
1. Fidel & Co.
Fidel & Co. has a full coffee menu as well as healthy breakfast and lunch food selections available. Our favorite is their ‘cafecito’ which is made from beans that they roast and brew in-house.
Fidel offers bulk items to-go as well so you can pick up an entire loaf of homemade sourdough or banana bread, a box of fresh pastries, or a 96 oz to-go carafe of their drip coffee. It’s the perfect option if you have family in town or need to supplement an early morning meeting at the office.
2. Guillermo’s Gourmet Coffee
This shop is owned by a father/son duo and who also roast their coffee beans on-site. With offerings like pour-over coffee, breve, and cortado, you are sure to find something to satisfy even the pickiest coffee drinkers in the group. For the more traditional ones, the classic cappuccino, latte, or drip coffee is an excellent choice as well.
3. Mylo Coffee Co.
Mylo’s started out as a stall in the farmer’s market but demand quickly necessitated that they create a storefront shop. Mylo’s continued its philosophy of locally sourced and sustainable ingredients at its store and works with local growers and producers in the area.
The laidback cafe has a breakfast and lunch menu crafted with ingredients from local farms. They also serve a selection of craft beers from Arkansas brewers. Please always drink responsibility if you plan to imbibe their delicious brews.
4. Nexus Coffee & Creative
Nexus defines itself as not just a coffee house, but a place to bring the local community together through art, music, and artisan events. The shop has coffee beans from Mexico, Brazil, Ethiopia, Burundi, and Honduras that are all ethically sourced and locally roasted.
We would recommend the Snickers Latte, which has flavors of hazelnut, caramel, and dark chocolate blended with espresso and served either hot or cold. For the tea lovers of the group, they offer organic black, green, herbal, white, oolong, and chai tea varieties.
5. River City Coffee
River City is the perfect place to relax and enjoy an afternoon. When you walk inside, you are greeted with a wall displaying the works of local artists, some of whom you can meet at the monthly receptions hosted by the coffee shop.
The baristas love to talk to customers about coffee and will even make their off-menu favorites for anyone willing to try something new. River City also sells their coffee beans by the bag if you find a new favorite or simply want to pick up the perfect gift for friends and family.
After getting appropriately caffeinated, swing by Crain Chevrolet to browse our new and used vehicles. The Crain family has proudly served the Arkansas community since the 1960s and we are confident that we can find you the perfect car to fit your needs. Stop in to talk to our knowledgeable associates today.
Your Chevrolet is an integral part of your life, so it’s worth taking the time to do what you can to maintain it. Parts are a big part of that, and they need to be replaced regularly for safety reasons and performance. Here are six reasons why you should replace your Chevrolet parts at your Chevy Dealership in Little Rock, AR!
6 Reasons to Replace Your Chevrolet Parts at Your Friendly Little Rock, AR Chevy Dealership
1. Your Vehicle Will Receive Authentic Parts
When you take your Chevrolet to a dealership, they will use genuine parts and made specifically for your year, make, and model. Dealerships provide what you need in parts replacement without wasting money on unnecessary add-ons or doing work that doesn’t need to be done.
Aftermarket components are often made to operate the same way, but installing them in your automobile will most likely invalidate the warranty. Additionally, there’s no way to tell how effectively they function.
2. Professional Installation Is Guaranteed
Dealership technicians are experienced professionals with the tools, training, and equipment needed to get the job done right in a professional manner.
They will always use their experience when installing parts so that they perform up to expectations, which ultimately means you’ll enjoy more satisfaction when driving your Chevrolet around Little Rock. No one wants to drive a vehicle that doesn’t work properly, and that’s what happens when you take matters into your own hands.
3. You Save Money in the Long Run
There is a difference between cheap parts and parts that are affordable. Aftermarket components may be cheap, but they won’t last as long as genuine components. Inevitably, you will have to replace them more frequently, which means you’ll end up spending more money in the long run.
The dealership will provide some of the best new parts for your Chevrolet while making it affordable on any budget.
4. Dealerships Document Every Part Installed on Your Vehicle
When you buy automobile parts from a dealer, you can expect them to keep track of your car’s maintenance history. When you’re ready to sell or trade your vehicle, these documents may be of enormous help. If you can’t provide repair records or evidence of original components, you may not get as much money back regardless of how much your automobile is worth.
5. The Parts You Need Are Available
The good news is that dealerships have access to every part imaginable for your vehicle. They frequently take inventory of parts so they can order what you need fast. Car owners often take their cars elsewhere only to find out the part they need isn’t available or won’t arrive in time before they have to leave.
6. Safe and Dependable Service
The technicians at a dealership have been through rigorous training. They know the ins and outs of every part that goes into your vehicle, which means they can service it with ease and on time. Your Chevrolet is a valuable investment, so you want to ensure it receives superior care from highly-trained and experienced technicians.
If you need service for your Chevrolet, make sure to contact Crain Chevrolet today! You can also visit our website for more information regarding the services we offer, as well as a massive inventory of parts that are compatible with your vehicle. We look forward to working with you soon!
The 2021 Chevrolet Trailblazer is the ideal size for drivers who need to carry passengers and cargo but don’t want to maneuver an overwhelmingly large vehicle. This crossover’s shape and size make it agile and easy to navigate in tight places like crowded parking lots. Having entered the market almost two decades ago, this year’s model offers an all-new design and body style that is sure to please drivers and passengers.
Elevate Your Journey in the 2021 Chevrolet Trailblazer
Stylish and Spacious Cabin
The 2021 Trailblazer has enough seats to accommodate up to five grown adults, offering enough personal space and comfort to make each journey quite pleasant without feeling cramped. The driver’s seat and front passenger seat are spacious and well-cushioned, as are the back seats. The second row offers plenty of headroom and legroom to suit passengers of all shapes and sizes.
The finishes of the interior have clearly been designed well, boasting accents that add a touch of elegance and sophistication to the overall feel of the space. The craftsmanship and materials used by Chevy are flawless, creating a stylish and attractive cabin that holds true throughout the lineup.
Expanded Cargo Space
Having extra storage space to take advantage of is one of the top reasons that buyers choose an SUV over a sedan. The 2021 Trailblazer may be a subcompact, but it has a well-designed interior that has plenty of room to spare. The redesign of the Trailblazer has included some smart engineering to deliver multiple configuration options to maximize passenger seating and cargo area.
One unique feature that sets this crossover apart from the pack is Chevy’s unique flat-folding front passenger seat. When the back row and this front seat are folded down, drivers can take advantage of maximum cargo space of 54.4 cubic feet. This expanded area equates to over 8.5 feet of usable length from the dashboard to the rear hatch.
Fuel-Efficient Engine Options
Vehicles in the crossover market often have the benefit of being fuel-efficient because of their size. The Trailblazer goes above and beyond this expectation by earning a combined EPA estimated 31 miles per gallon when equipped with the 1.3-liter 3-cylinder turbocharged engine. Buyers can choose between front-wheel drive and all-wheel drive while still yielding similar results.
Vehicles that are outfitted with the 1.2-liter base engine can expect to achieve a combined EPA estimated 29 miles per gallon. This fuel economy is quite impressive for a vehicle in this class and ensures that drivers spend more time exploring and less time at the gas station.
The best way to truly appreciate all that the Trailblazer has to offer is through a test drive. Many buyers are pleasantly surprised by the agility and cabin space of this crossover. Its large interior can handle all of your luggage and gear while still having enough room for your friends and family. Call or come by Crain Chevrolet today to schedule a test drive. You won’t regret taking the opportunity to experience this practical, reliable, and fuel-efficient vehicle.
4 Amazing Hiking Trails Near Little Rock, AR
The area around Little Rock, AR is packed with natural beauty. From mountains and parks to woodlands and rivers, it’s full of striking views and gorgeous scenery. If you’re looking to relax and take your mind off your worries, why not enjoy all this nature by hiking through it? There are so many great hiking trails nearby for folks to enjoy!
4 Amazing Hiking Trails Near Little Rock, AR
1. Pinnacle Mountain State Park Trail
Pinnacle Mountain State Park is one of the jewels in the crown of the Little Rock area. Offering the perfect blend of eye-catching scenery, marvelous views of the landscape below, and plenty of habitats for local wildlife, it’s no wonder that such a favorite with local hiking enthusiasts.
There are a variety of great trails around the park, ranging from easy paths on flat ground to challenging hikes to the mountain summit. If you’re up for taking on a difficult trek, give the West Summit Trail a try. Although there’s plenty of elevation, you’ll be rewarded by stunning views of West Little Rock, the Arkansas River Valley, and Lake Maumelle. The path is lined with beautiful wildflowers, so you’re sure to enjoy the climb.
2. River Mountain Park
If you’re looking for a spot for a quiet hike, River Mountain Park is the place for you. Miles of trails take in gorgeous woodland and river scenery, where plenty of wildlife can be seen, including deer and a variety of birds.
Due to moderate elevation in places and some narrow passages, this trail may not be suitable for those with limited mobility. Visit in spring for best results, when the river runs quickly, and the path is lined with wildflowers. Find trail access off River Mountain Road.
3. Arkansas Arboretum
With its miles of trails, Arkansas Arboretum is the perfect place to enjoy a hike. The 71-acre site is carefully curated to showcase land from Arkansas’s six natural divisions, including the Ozark Plateau, and Mississippi prairies. The arboretum is a riot of colors and pleasant smells and offers visitors the chance to learn so much about the local flora. There are even ponds and wetland areas, adding to the natural habitats on display.
The trails here are smooth and flat, suitable for all ability levels. It’s perfect for a walk with the family, especially if you want to teach kids about nature and local ecosystems. The arboretum is open daily, and admission is free.
4. Ranch North Woods Preserve
You might be surprised when you first visit Ranch North Woods Preserve. Despite its location close to downtown, it’s a positive oasis of greenspace between residential streets and the downtown area. Here, 3 and a half miles of trail wind through meadows, forests, and the Little Maumelle River.
The park is open from dawn to dusk, 7 days a week. Access is off Ranch Boulevard but please note parking is limited.
You’ll need a reliable vehicle to make the most of all these great spots and discover new favorite places to enjoy a hike. Come on down to Crain Chevrolet today for a great deal on a new or pre-owned vehicle.
4 Signs Your Chevy May Need a Transmission Repair
With an inoperable transmission, your vehicle can’t change gears. At first, this may only mean that you get stuck in first or second gear. However, it can mean that your vehicle can’t make it out of park. Fortunately, you don’t have to let things get this bad. If you are in tune with your vehicle, you will hear it tell you that you need to schedule a transmission repair at your Little Rock, AR Chevy dealer.
4 Signs Your Chevy May Need a Transmission Repair at Your Little Rock, AR Chevy Dealer
1. Knocking Sounds
Knocking sounds are a clear sign that something is wrong with your Chevy. Sometimes, knocking sounds occur when your engine mount is loose or broken. However, you can tell your transmission mount is loose or broken when the knocking sounds only occur during gear shifts and extremely rapid acceleration or deceleration. There are also several other sounds that may indicate your transmission need to be repaired, including:
- Humming
- Clunking
- Whining
- Buzzing
2. Leaking Transmission Fluid
There can be no doubt that something is wrong with your transmission if you notice your transmission fluid is leaking. This is because your transmission is a closed system. One way to identify a transmission fluid leak is to check the amount of transmission fluid in the reservoir once per month. If you notice that you are losing transmission fluid over time, there is a leak somewhere that needs to be found and fixed.
You also may notice transmission fluid on the ground under the front of your vehicle if you have leaking transmission fluid. Depending on the age and oxidation of the transmission fluid, it may be pink, red, or brown in color. Also, transmission fluid can usually be identified by its distinctly sweet smell. However, it can smell burnt if your transmission system overheats.
3. Slipping Gears
You should bring your Chevy in for a repair as soon as possible if your gears slip when you drive. If you come in quickly, you may only need to replace a gear tooth or two. On the other hand, you may need to replace an entire gear if you ignore the problem for long enough. Similarly, serious damage may occur to your entire gearbox if you don’t listen to this clear sign of a transmission problem.
4. Shifting Gears Erratically
Erratic gear shifting may indicate a couple of problems. You probably have a problem with your clutch if you shift gears erratically and have a manual transmission. You are more likely to have a very serious problem with the computer that controls your transmission, known as the TCU, if you have an automatic transmission and you shift gears erratically.
There are several signs you need to have your transmission fixed. Among these are knocking sounds, leaking transmission fluid, slipping gears, and shifting gears erratically. Contact us as soon as possible at Crain Chevrolet on Interstate 30 to schedule a service appointment if you recognize any of these signs of a failing transmission.
Trim Levels of the 2021 Chevy Trax
The sporty 2021 Chevy Trax stands out for its sporty feel, tall seating position, functional features, and incredible price point. The new compact SUV comes in two distinct trim levels; LS and LT. In addition, the premium LT trim offers three special editions for enhanced comfort and convenience. Read on to discover which 2021 Trax trim level suits your lifestyle.
Trim Levels of the 2021 Chevy Trax
The Chevy Trax LS Trim
Engine and Power
The LS is the base model of the new Chevy Trax and starts at an affordable $21,400. This is a fun SUV for your city driving with its agile handling and compact design. The 1.4 L turbo ECOTEC four-cylinder engine pairs with a six-speed automatic transmission to generate 138 horsepower and 148 pound-feet of torque. The engine gets you 26/31 MPG (city/highway). You can choose your ride with the standard FWD or go for the optional all-wheel drive (AWD) configuration.
Incredible Technology
While the LS is the base trim, there’s nothing basic about its features. Some of the outstanding tech features include a 7-inch color touchscreen, Bluetooth® audio streaming, standard Apple CarPlay® /Android Auto™, and a 3.5-inch diagonal driver information center. The Chevy Trax LS also comes with 4G LTE Wi-Fi hotspot capability, dual USB ports, a six-speaker audio system, and an available subscription for SiriusXM® satellite radio.
Comfy and Functional Interior
The Chevy Trax LS interior is optimized for comfort and functionality. The interior features cloth seat trim, single-zone manual climate control, a 4-way manual driver’s seat, and a 2-way manual front passenger’s seat. The satin silver and chrome shift knob add a touch of sleekness to the interior. The flat-folding front passenger’s seatback and the 60/40 split-folding rear bench seat boost the SUV’s cargo capacity.
Outstanding Safety Tech
The Chevrolet brand is renowned for its commitment to safety. With the new Chevy Trax LS, you get top-of-the-range safety features, including ten airbags and a rear vision camera. The LS trim also features rear child security door locks, StabiliTrak® electronic stability control system with traction control, and a theft-deterrent unauthorized entry system.
The Chevy Trax LT Trim
Exclusive Features
The Chevy Trax LT, starting at $23,200 comes with the same engine but builds on other outstanding features of the LS trim level. New features include:
- 120V power outlet
- Front passenger under seat storage
- Heated, power outside mirrors
- Deep-tinted glass
- Cruise control
- Halogen projector-beam headlamps
- Deluxe cloth/leatherette seat trim
- LED daytime running lamps
- LED tail lamps
- Roof-mounted side rails
Special Editions
The Chevy Trax LT adds three editions to give drivers more choice. The Midnight Edition introduces black embellishments with exclusive features such as 18-inch gloss black aluminum wheels (with all-season blackwall tires), mosaic black metallic exterior color, front and rear black bowtie emblems, front and rear black skid plates, and black beltline moldings.
The Sport Edition Trax LT trim package has the same features as the Midnight Edition but does away with the mosaic black metallic paint color. The Redline LT Edition adds red accent stripes to the wheels and comes with a black Trax badge with a red outline.
Available Packages
The LT trim allows you to choose additional features through optional packages. The driver confidence package includes side blind zone alert, rear cross traffic alert, and rear park assist. The available LT convenience package introduces keyless open and start, a six-way power driver’s seat adjuster, and a leather-wrapped steering wheel. With the premium seat package, you get heated front seats and leatherette seating surfaces.
The new Chevy Trax is the perfect car to get around and for that occasional trip out of town with your family. Visit our Crain Chevrolet dealership in Little Rock, AR, to get a feel of this exciting ride.
If you watch the news, you’ve likely heard of the chip shortage that’s affecting the supply of electronic devices, home appliances, and – yes – new cars. This explains the inventory shortage you see on nearly every dealership lot. But don’t let this deter you from shopping for the vehicle you’ve been thinking about. We’re letting buyers custom order the Chevy model and trim they want with an easy online form that takes only minutes to complete.
Chip Shortage, Inventory Shortage, and Placing a Custom Order
In the aftermath of the pandemic, automakers around the world are facing a shortage of semiconductor chips. Many original equipment manufacturers (OEMs) shuttered their doors in the second quarter of 2020 to comply with state shutdown orders. Accordingly, they also canceled their parts orders, including those for chips.
Now, a shortage of chips is impacting a number of industries as the economy continues to recover. Keep in mind chips are used in all electronics, from smartphones to gaming devices. On top of this, a frenzy for new cars is being fed by factors like:
- Low interest rates
- Opportunities for high savings
- Government stimulus payments
Fewer New Cars Than Usual
You might see fewer cars than usual on dealer lots, but that doesn’t mean you can’t get the new vehicle you long for. We’ve adjusted our sales process and now allow customers to order the precise vehicle they want through our website. This is an easy way to get behind the wheel of a new car, and online orders are managed by our expert staff. You need only to provide us with a few details, and we’ll get to work ordering the exact Chevy you want.
The benefits of made-to-order shopping are many, including the chance to tell us which trim and specifications you want on your truck, SUV, or car. You might, for instance, want heated seats, leather upholstery, or a specific body color. You can include this information with the online order form without having to leave your home or office.
Choose the Vehicle You Want
Ordering is available for the 2021 model year with more than 10 different vehicle options available, including the:
- Blazer
- Equinox
- Tahoe
- Trailblazer
- Traverse
- Trax
- Colorado
- Silverado 1500 HD
- Silverado 2500 HD
- Camaro
- Malibu
Once you’ve settled on the Chevy you want, visit our website, choose Order a New Vehicle from the dropdown menu under New, and click the Start Your Order button that corresponds with your model. This will take you to an order form with just a few fields that need to be completed. After we receive your online request, a member of our sales team will contact you to complete the order.
The Final Steps
Chevrolet does not charge additional fees for custom vehicle orders, and we’ll notify you as soon as your new car arrives at our dealership. At that time, we’ll also schedule a delivery location and time that meets your needs. Financing is available for vehicle orders, and we’re happy to discuss those options with you once we receive your completed form.
We’ve created a simple, straightforward process to ensure you get the new car you long for. The shortage of semiconductor chips hasn’t stopped our momentum in moving forward, and neither will it keep you from the shiny Chevy you want in your driveway. Learn more about ordering your new car, truck, or SUV by contacting Crain Chevrolet – or complete our short online order form today.
6 Kid-Friendly Activities for Families in Little Rock, AR
1. Big Rock Mini Golf & Fun Park
2. Little Rock Zoo
Founded in 1926, Little Rock Zoo is home to over 500 animals. Make your way to see the great apes and wonder at their intelligence. Then make your way to the elephants, the big cats, see the cheetahs, and the bears. If you need a snack or a drink, stop by Cafe Africa for some burgers or ice cream. Purchase some lorikeet nectar and feed the lorikeets. There are also regular presentations where you can learn and have fun.
3. Museum of Discovery – Donald W. Reynolds Science Center
4. Arkansas Museum of Fine Arts Children’s Theatre
Watch the children’s faces light up as the family enjoys a show from the only professional children’s theater in the state. Bringing to life familiar classic tales and other stories through the magic of lighting, fanciful characters, and vivid costumes, the Museum of Fine Arts believes that theater can shape young lives. There are also workshops where experienced artists teach ceramics, drawing, painting, jewelry, theater, and more to all artists of any skill level.
6. The Wonder Place
While enjoying everything that Little Rock offers, stop by Crain Chevrolet for a maintenance check on your vehicle. Our friendly staff is always happy to give you more recommendations for family activities in the area.
An Up-Close Guide to the 2021 Chevrolet Spark
Ever since its debut in 2021, drivers have loved the Chevrolet Spark. This economical commuter car is a top buy for drivers who value affordability. Its fuel rating and small body style make it an excellent choice as a daily driver, and its extremely reasonable starting price allows drivers to save money without sacrificing reliable durability. The 2021 Spark is a fantastic compact hatchback that will prove to be useful among a variety of consumers.
An Up-Close Guide to the 2021 Chevrolet Spark
Swift Acceleration
Buyers have a choice between an available automatic transmission and the standard manual transmission. The manual transmission’s acceleration is especially swift, and drivers will appreciate how responsive the gearbox is. When equipped with the manual transmission, this powertrain will deliver the best performance possible.
The Spark’s 98-horsepower engine can achieve highway speeds quite gracefully and can expect to earn an EPA estimated 29 miles per gallon in the city and 38 miles per gallon on the highway. This fuel rating holds true regardless of the transmission choice.
The Most Affordable Car Nationwide
It is common practice for car buyers to take out a huge loan when purchasing a new car in today’s market. But fortunately for Spark drivers, this doesn’t have to be the case. The 2021 Spark starts at just $13,400, appealing to drivers on a tight budget, or those who just do not want to take out a large car loan.
Chevy also makes the cost of maintaining the Spark low, as this automaker’s services and replacement parts will not break the bank. Even the tires that come standard on the Spark are some of the most reasonably priced available.
Infotainment 3 Interface Comes Standard
The 2021 Spark features an advanced infotainment system that comes standard throughout this year’s lineup. Making this feature standard is quite rare among vehicles at this price point. Every trim is outfitted with a 7-inch touchscreen display that effortlessly syncs your compatible smartphone with Apple CarPlay and Android Auto
Your passengers, especially, will appreciate the standard 4G LTE Wi-Fi hotspot. This useful feature won’t cause anyone to waste their own data while staying connected. This hotspot can really elevate your camping experience by allowing you to stream movies or listen to music under the stars. The Spark’s four-speaker stereo system is more than adequate to fill a vehicle of this size with your favorite tunes.
OnStar Communications System Comes Standard
Each trim level of the 2021 Spark comes equipped with the market’s top communications system. If drivers need help while on the road, they can touch the strategically placed little blue button and be connected automatically with live roadside assistance.
The 2021 Spark is an excellent choice for drivers on a limited budget. While this hatchback proves itself to be economical, Chevy still manages to load it with highly sought-after qualities. The high-tech features, youthful styling, and overall value make it an exceptional buy. Call or stop by Crain Chevrolet today for a test drive.
There are lots of great places to enjoy the exhilarating sport of mountain biking in Arkansas, and the area around Little Rock, AR is no exception. There are lots of great bike paths to explore, so grab your bike and head out for a summer’s day in the saddle.
3 of the Best Bike Paths in and Around Little Rock, AR
1. Arkansas River Trail
While it may be a little too gentle for some seasoned mountain bikers, the Arkansas river trail makes for a wonderfully scenic waterfront route that’s well worth a visit on a sunny summer’s afternoon. It’s a paved multi-use trail that’s also popular with walkers and runners, forming a 16-mile loop through both North Little Rock and Little Rock. The trail crosses the river in two places, at the Clinton and Big Dam Bridges.
The trail has several access points, but the most popular at Cook’s Landing and from the car park by Big Dam Bridge and at the northern end of the route. It’s also possible to access some of the local mountain bike trails from the trail.
2. Emerald Park Trail
This challenging trail includes some steep climbs whichever direction you travel in and will be perfect for more experienced riders. The trail winds its way to the top of Emerald Park and Fork Rooks and includes some challenging switchbacks along the way. Be careful of the many gullies and washouts when descending the trail but be sure to enjoy the spectacular views from the top, which look out over the River and downtown Little Rock.
The trail can be accessed from the northern branch of the Arkansas River trail from the parking lot near Tournament Drive. The northern side of the trail is generally considered to be more challenging, with enough rocky sections to make even experienced riders pause for thought.
3. Boyle Park
Boyle Park makes an excellent place to enjoy a short ride, while still staying in Little Rock. A good place to start, as it’s a little easier and suitable for beginners. That being said, it’s also popular with experienced riders, who will enjoy developing their at-speed turns here before heading to the north-eastern section of the park, with its challenging rocky areas and steep climbs.
These are just a few of the amazing trails you can find here in Little Rock; there’s lots more out there to discover! If you’re looking for a new car to take you up to the trailhead, then visit us here at Crain Chevrolet today, and we’ll be happy to help you out.
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