Arkansas Department of Parks & Tourism

The Jimmerson Creek Bridge offers cyclists a connection between the nearby Big Dam Bridge and Two Rivers Park in west Little Rock.

Riverdale is a vibrant neighborhood with endless recreational activities and celebrated restaurants. What started out as farmland and a major thoroughfare for rail lines, eventually flourished into the Riverdale of today — a hip, artsy area known as the city’s “design district.” Nestled at the foot of Cantrell Hill and stretching to the banks of the Arkansas River, Riverdale has a little something for everyone.

Some of the area’s top attractions include waterfront access, multiple city parks, and of course, the Big Dam Bridge. Biking enthusiasts can hop on the 17-mile long Arkansas River Trail and bike west towards the Big Dam Bridge — one of Little Rock’s iconic landmarks. The bridge has been named the longest pedestrian and bicycle bridge (4,226 feet to be exact) in North America built specifically for that purpose. Other recreational activities include golf at Rebsamen Park Golf Course, which offers sweeping views of the river valley.

The area is known for its close proximity to two of Little Rock’s city parks — Allsopp Park and Murray Park. Allsopp features multiple trails that wind up into the hills of Little Rock, leading into The Heights and Hillcrest neighborhoods. Murray Park is situated right along the banks of the Arkansas River with a dog park, three soccer fields, two playgrounds and a boat dock.

When it comes to dining, Riverdale boasts a slew of all-star options. In 2018, Guy Fieri of the Food Network’s “Diners, Drive-Ins and Dives” stopped by The Fold: Botanas & Bar and featured their delicious tacos (we’re big fans, too). Local dining favorites include world-famous barbecue at Whole Hog Cafe, brunch at Red Door and Creole fare from The Faded Rose. Be sure to try the tapas and mojitos at Riverdale’s Southern Living-recommended hot spot Loca Luna.

Being the city’s “design district,” Riverdale’s shops are full of interesting finds including decor, furniture and antiques. Stop by Fabulous Finds and One of a Find Vintique Market for fun antiques and gifts, and Urban Pad for modern and contemporary decor. Tanarah Luxe Floral also offers a variety of home accents and gifts at the store located off Cantrell Road.

C. Waynette Traub

Whole Hog Café serves award-winning barbecue daily at all of its locations, including its flagship restaurant in Riverdale.

WERECOMMEND

EAT

  • The Faded Rose
  • Whole Hog Cafe

DRINK

  • The Faded Rose

SHOP

  • Arkansas Arts Center Museum Shop
    (temporarily located in Riverdale until the museum reopens in 2022)
  • Fabulous Finds Antique & Decorative Mall
  • One of a Find Vintique Market