Julius Breckling Riverfront Park: Little Rock's Downtown Oasis
Explore art, nature, and recreation at Julius Breckling Riverfront Park, a vibrant downtown Little Rock destination on the Arkansas River.
Julius Breckling Riverfront Park, a 39-acre urban oasis in downtown Little Rock, offers a blend of recreation, art, and nature along the Arkansas River. Originally known as Riverfront Park, it was renamed in 2021 to honor Julius Breckling, a civil rights activist. The park's history dates back to a 1913 proposal by landscape architect John Nolen. Revived in the late 1970s, the park officially opened in May 1983. It features an amphitheater, fountains, a sandwich shop, and extensive landscaping. Visitors can view "The Little Rock," the city's namesake, from platforms along the river. The History Pavilion showcases the riverfront's history through informational panels. The park offers various attractions, including the Vogel Schwartz Sculpture Garden, playgrounds, and a splash pad. The Medical Mile, an outdoor health museum, is part of the Arkansas River Trail. The park also provides access to the Little Rock River Market. Throughout the year, the park hosts community events and concerts, including the annual Riverfest. With walking trails, gardens, and art installations, Julius Breckling Riverfront Park is a destination for outdoor enthusiasts and families.
Local tips
- Visit during sunrise or sunset for breathtaking views of the Arkansas River and the Little Rock skyline.
- Bring a picnic blanket to enjoy a meal by the river.
- Check the local event schedule for concerts and festivals held in the park.
- Wear comfortable shoes to take advantage of the walking and biking trails.
A brief summary to Julius Breckling Riverfront Park
- 400 President Clinton Ave, Little Rock, Downtown, Arkansas, 72201, US
- +1501-371-4770
- Visit website
- Monday 6 am-10 pm
- Tuesday 6 am-10 pm
- Wednesday 6 am-10 pm
- Thursday 6 am-10 pm
- Friday 6 am-10 pm
- Saturday 6 am-10 pm
- Sunday 6 am-10 pm
Getting There
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Walking
If you're already in downtown Little Rock, walking to Julius Breckling Riverfront Park is a pleasant option. Head towards the riverfront and locate President Clinton Avenue. The park is located at 400 President Clinton Ave. There are no costs associated with walking.
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Public Transport
Rock Region METRO operates bus routes throughout Little Rock. Check the bus schedules to find the most convenient route to downtown Little Rock. From there, it's a short walk to the park. A one-way fare is $1.35.
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Taxi/Ride-share
Taxis and ride-sharing services like Uber and Lyft are readily available in Little Rock. A short taxi ride from downtown to the park will likely cost between $11 and $18, depending on the distance and time of day.
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Parking
If driving, several parking lots and garages are available near Julius Breckling Riverfront Park. Options include the River Market Parking Deck at 400 President Clinton Avenue. Parking rates range from $2 to $8.
