Riverfront Dr: North Little Rock – Arkansas

Just across the river from downtown Little Rock lies a short but scenic stretch of road that offers a different perspective on the capital city — Riverfront Drive in North Little Rock. This two-mile eastbound drive isn’t long in distance, but it’s packed with visual interest and local character as it hugs the north bank of the Arkansas River. Whether you’re heading to a local event, commuting, or just taking the long way to soak in the scenery, Riverfront Drive gives you a peaceful, tree-lined route with great views and easy access to some of the city’s top destinations.

We begin our drive at the junction with Arkansas Highway 365 in North Little Rock, right near the heart of the Argenta Historic District. This area has seen a vibrant resurgence in recent years, with local restaurants, coffee shops, and galleries dotting the neighborhood. From the traffic circle, Riverfront Drive heads east, running parallel to the river and offering occasional glimpses of the Little Rock skyline peeking through the trees. Soon, we pass under the massive infrastructure of Interstate 30 that looms overhead. It’s a dramatic visual contrast: towering concrete ramps above and quiet riverside greenway below.

As we continue, the route becomes more serene, bordered by parkland and trails that form part of the Arkansas River Trail system — a multi-use path beloved by cyclists, runners, and walkers alike. Along this stretch, you’ll find quick access to several attractions, including the North Shore Riverwalk Park. The nearby Dickey-Stephens Park, home of the Arkansas Travelers baseball team, is just a block away, making this drive a common path for sports fans and eventgoers. Riverfront Drive also serves as a connector between the city’s civic and recreational spaces, offering an alternative to more congested routes like Broadway or Main Street.

Eventually, Riverfront Drive curves gently north and ends at the intersection with U.S. Route 70 — also known as Broadway Avenue. From here, travelers can continue east toward Rose City, or west back into the entertainment core of North Little Rock. For such a short route, Riverfront Drive packs a lot of variety and functionality. Whether you’re cutting across town or just taking a detour with a view, it’s a reminder that sometimes the best roads aren’t the biggest — they’re the ones that connect people and places in a more human, grounded way.