The Winthrop Rockefeller Institute - University of Arkansas System

Frequently Asked Questions

In this part of our Web site, you will find answers to questions about Winthrop Rockefeller Institute.

• What exactly does the Rockefeller Institute do?
• Who was Winthrop Rockefeller?
• What happened to Winrock International?
• Are you open to the public?
• What are the Rockefeller Institute’s hours of operation?
• What is there to do at the Rockefeller Institute?
• How do I get to the Rockefeller Institute?
• How do I get to Petit Jean State Park from the Rockefeller Institute?
• Does the Rockefeller Institute raise cattle?
• Do you have smoking rooms?
• Can I bring my pet?
• Can I use your facilities for a special event?
• Is fishing allowed?
• Where can I eat at the Rockefeller Institute?
• Do you offer a continental breakfast?
• What are the hours of operation for the gift shop?
• Are volunteer opportunities available?

1. What exactly does the Rockefeller Institute do?

Winthrop Rockefeller Institute is non-profit, 501(c)3 educational institute and conference center. Our mission is to carry on the legacy of Gov. Winthrop Rockefeller and to serve as a catalyst for furthering the mission of the University of Arkansas System by bringing together people of diverse ideas and interests to address subjects of state, regional, national and international importance. Our vision is to serve as a world-class convening center using leading edge conference technology, contributing to discussion and exploration of strategic matters of local, national, and global policy or of matters of significant, scientific, cultural, or other academic interest. Back to top

2. Who was Winthrop Rockefeller?

Winthrop Rockefeller was born May 1, 1912, in New York City to John D. Rockefeller Jr. and Abby Aldrich Rockefeller. He moved to Arkansas in 1953 and built his home and Winrock Farms on Petit Jean Mountain. Before becoming governor of Arkansas in 1967, Rockefeller served as Chairman of the Arkansas Industrial Development Commission and in doing so, he became familiar with the state’s challenges and its opportunities. Although his intention was not to get into politics, he recognized the needs of the state and ran for governor four times – winning twice and losing twice. As governor, Rockefeller faced issues in the prison system as well as education and government reform. After serving two terms, he was defeated by Dale Bumpers in 1970. He died of cancer in 1973.  Back to top

3. What happened to Winrock International?

In 1973, Winrock International was established on the 188 pastoral acres where the Rockefeller Institute stands today. Thirty years later, Winrock relocated to Little Rock and Washington D.C., and the property reverted to the Winthrop Rockefeller Charitable Trust. Together with the University of Arkansas System, the Charitable Trust decided to develop our educational conference center in July 2005.  Back to top

4. Are you open to the public?

Yes. The Rockefeller Institute welcomes visitors at all times.  Back to top

5. What are the Rockefeller Institute’s hours of operation?

Winthrop Rockefeller Institute is open 24 hours a day, seven days a week. However, the outside gates close at 9 p.m. Visitors arriving after this time and before the gates reopen the next morning should follow the instructions on the keypad to enter. Our gift shop and River Rock Grill have different hours.  Back to top

6. What is there to do at the Rockefeller Institute?

The Rockefeller Institute has several year-long and seasonal activities for people of all ages to enjoy. We offer a variety of educational programs – from workshops and seminars to public lectures, conferences and special events. Registered guests have access to our recreational areas including the fitness center, indoor tennis and basketball courts, bicycles, as well as paddle boats and fishing at the boathouse on Lake Abby. All guests can enjoy the many demonstration gardens, water features, and walking and jogging trails available on our grounds. There are also other nearby attractions on and around Petit Jean Mountain, including Petit Jean State Park.  Back to top

7. How do I get to the Rockefeller Institute?

Click here for directions.  Back to top

8. How do I get to Petit Jean State Park from the Rockefeller Institute?

Turn right from Rockefeller Drive. Turn left at the fork in the road. After crossing Davies Bridge, turn left onto Highway 154. The Visitors’ Center is on your left.  Back to top

9. Does the Rockefeller Institute raise cattle?

No. The Santa Gertrudis cattle you see when driving to our property belongs to Winrock Farms.  Back to top

10. Do you have smoking rooms?

No. Our lodging rooms are smoke-free. Designated smoking areas can be found throughout the premises.  Back to top

11. Can I bring my pet?

For the convenience of other guests and in an effort to provide the most sanitary accommodations available, pets are NOT allowed.  Back to top

12. Can I use your facilities for a special event?

As an educational conference center, we do not host weddings, reunions, or similar special events. Click here for more information about planning a conference, meeting or corporate retreat.  Back to top

13. Is fishing allowed?

Fishing is allowed at Lake Abby for registered guests. Equipment can be checked out at the front desk.  Back to top

14. Where can I eat at the Rockefeller Institute?

The Rockefeller Institute’s River Rock Grill is a private club open Thursday and Friday for lunch and Friday and Saturday for dinner. While River Rock Grill is a private club, memberships are free. Reservations are recommended and are required for groups of eight or more.  Back to top

15. Do you offer a continental breakfast?

We no longer offer a continental breakfast for overnight guests unaffiliated with a group or conference.  Back to top

16. What are the hours of operation for the gift shop?

The gift shop is open from 10 a.m. until 5 p.m. on Monday. Tuesday through Friday, the hours are from 10 a.m. until 6 p.m., and Saturday, the gift shop is open from 11 a.m. until 7 p.m.  Back to top

17. Are volunteer opportunities available?

Yes. Please click here to learn more about becoming a volunteer.  Back to top