Founded in the early1820's, Little Rock was discovered by French Explorers and named LA PETITE ROCHE (they anchored by the "small rock'). Centrally located, it is the hub for government activities, medical research facilities, and is the home of the Arkansas Symphony Orchestra, Ballet Arkansas, the Arkansas Repertory Theater, the Zoo, Arkansas Opera Theater, the Chamber Music Society of Little Rock, the University of Arkansas Planetarium, and the Wildwood Park for The Performing Arts. The population of 175,000 belies the many ethnic influences and the wealth of restaurants that provide a plethora of outstanding choices for fine dining.