
River View Park
A serene park along the Kentucky River, featuring a scenic walking trail, public art, historic bridge, and picnic areas.

Highlights
Must-see attractions

Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Fewer crowds, peaceful atmosphere

River View Park
Best Time
Fewer crowds, peaceful atmosphere

Highlights
Must-see attractions
A serene park along the Kentucky River, featuring a scenic walking trail, public art, historic bridge, and picnic areas.
"A pleasant surprise for an unscheduled pull over, with a nice trail along the river and plenty of scenery.
"
🚶♀️ Stroll the River Path
Enjoy the paved walkway with art, history, and river views. Connects to Ft. Hill trails.
🧺 Picnic with a View
Covered area with FREE WiFi & outlets. Great for a relaxed meal.

Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
Riverfront Walking Trail
Along the Kentucky River
A scenic paved path offering views of the river, historic bridge, and public art. Perfect for a leisurely walk or jog.
Historic Railroad Bridge
Adjacent to the park
An impressive, albeit crumbling, historic structure offering a glimpse into the area's industrial past. Features a beautiful mural.
Public Art Installations
Along the walking trail
Discover unique sculptures and vibrant murals that add an artistic flair to the park's natural beauty.
Kentucky River Views
Overlook balcony and riverfront
Enjoy picturesque views of the Kentucky River, often bustling with boaters and jet skis, especially on warmer days.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Timing Your Visit for the Best Experience
Park Amenities and What to Bring
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
🚶♀️ Stroll the River Path
Enjoy the paved walkway with art, history, and river views. Connects to Ft. Hill trails.
🧺 Picnic with a View
Covered area with FREE WiFi & outlets. Great for a relaxed meal.
🎨 Admire Local Art
Interactive sculptures and a stunning mural on the old bridge add character.
🛍️ Visit the Farmers Market
Fresh produce and homemade goods available Tuesdays and Saturdays.
Tips
from all over the internet
🚶♀️ Stroll the River Path
Enjoy the paved walkway with art, history, and river views. Connects to Ft. Hill trails.
🧺 Picnic with a View
Covered area with FREE WiFi & outlets. Great for a relaxed meal.
🎨 Admire Local Art
Interactive sculptures and a stunning mural on the old bridge add character.
🛍️ Visit the Farmers Market
Fresh produce and homemade goods available Tuesdays and Saturdays.
🐶 Dog-Friendly Fun
Leashed dogs are welcome on the trails for outdoor time.
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
River View Park is a charming and relaxing spot with a beautiful riverfront trail, public art, and historical elements. Visitors appreciate the free admission, picnic facilities with WiFi, and the scenic views. While some note the lack of a playground, the park is praised for its peaceful atmosphere and community feel, especially during the farmers market.
"Lovely but small . A relaxing place . A walking trail for exercise . On Tuesday and Saturday they have a local farmers market to shop for fresh produce, homemade goods and meats . A historic railroad bridge runs next to the property and the Kentucky river runs parallel with the walkway . Today , the city was knocking down a part of the bridge because it was crumbling . A beautiful mural is painted on the wall of the RR bridge . A sculpture is by the walkway . A small balcony is built to overlook the area ."
may august
"Glad that we stumbled across this park. It offers a nice trail along the river with plenty of scenery including art murals, sculptures, a old railroad trestle, and a laidback groundhog that didn't go far the whole time that we were there. Nice time had by myself, husband, and our two teenagers!"
Becky B
"It was raining off and on most of the day. Some intervals of rain were fast & furious coming down. Decided to pull over, eat and take a break. The parking was plenty, FREE.. A fairly large metal awning with picnic tables, located in the parking lot has FREE WiFi hotspot! Great idea. There are 2 portable bathrooms. There are stairs leading to a semi- covered platform. From there you can take the smooth concrete walkway down the other side to get to the Kentucky river. The wide, paved pathway follows the river. Several artist structures, picnic tables, and plaques with Frankfort's history lines the walkway. The river was alive with jet ski's & boaters in the rain. I didn't stay long due to the rain. It was a pleasant surprise for an unscheduled pull over."
Lady Dara and Sir Rebellious
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
River View Park is located in Frankfort, Kentucky. Parking is available within the park, and it's also easy to park on the street in downtown Frankfort and walk over.
Yes, there is parking available at the park. The parking lot can get full during peak times in the summer, but street parking in downtown Frankfort is also an option.
Yes, there's a smooth concrete walkway that leads down to the Kentucky River from the semi-covered platform.
Information on public transport access is limited, but given its downtown Frankfort location, it's likely accessible via local bus routes. It's best to check local transit schedules for specific routes and times.
River View Park is conveniently located near major roads in Frankfort, making it easily accessible by car. Specific road access details can be found on local mapping services.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
No, River View Park offers free admission, making it an accessible and budget-friendly destination for everyone.
The park is generally open daily from 8:30 AM until dusk, though specific hours can vary seasonally. It's always a good idea to check local listings for the most up-to-date information.
As River View Park is a public park with free admission, no advance booking or tickets are required.
Yes, River View Park hosts a local farmers market on Tuesdays and Saturdays, offering fresh produce and homemade goods.
While the park is generally open year-round, some amenities like the train ride at the Peterborough location may be seasonal. The Frankfort location's walking trails and river access are typically available throughout the year, weather permitting.
🎫 🏞️ Onsite Experience
Enjoy walking the scenic riverfront trail, admiring public art and murals, picnicking in the covered area, and learning about local history through informational plaques.
River View Park does not have a playground. However, it offers interactive sculptures and a pleasant environment for outdoor time with kids and dogs.
Absolutely! There's a covered picnic area with tables and even free WiFi and electrical outlets, making it a great spot for a meal.
Yes, the park offers great photo opportunities with its river views, historic bridge, murals, and sculptures. The late afternoon light can be particularly beautiful.
Portable bathrooms are available at the park, particularly near the picnic area.
🍽️ 🍽️ Food & Dining
River View Park itself does not have on-site restaurants or food vendors. However, the covered picnic area is perfect for bringing your own food.
Being located in downtown Frankfort, there are several diners and restaurants within walking distance of River View Park, offering various culinary choices.
Yes, visitors are encouraged to bring their own food and drinks to enjoy at the picnic areas or along the riverfront.
While not directly in the park, the proximity to downtown Frankfort means you can easily find convenience stores or cafes to purchase snacks and drinks before or after your visit.
Given its location, exploring the diners and local eateries in downtown Frankfort is recommended for a taste of local cuisine.
📸 📸 Photography
The riverfront trail, the historic railroad bridge with its mural, the public art installations, and the overlook balcony all offer excellent photographic opportunities.
Late afternoon often provides beautiful golden hour lighting, enhancing the scenery. However, the park offers good photographic potential throughout the day.
The combination of the river, the historic bridge, vibrant murals, and sculptures creates a unique visual landscape. Keep an eye out for local wildlife, like the groundhog mentioned by visitors!
Drone usage regulations can vary by park and municipality. It's advisable to check with local authorities or park management regarding drone policies before flying.
A standard camera or smartphone is sufficient for capturing the park's beauty. For landscape shots, a wide-angle lens can be beneficial. Consider a tripod for low-light conditions or capturing the mural details.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
Bring along a frisbee or ball for some open-field fun, or simply enjoy a leisurely walk. The park's historical plaques can also offer educational moments for curious young minds. Remember to pack snacks and drinks, as there are no food vendors on-site, but the picnic facilities make it easy to enjoy a family feast.
🚶♀️ Solo Travelers & Couples
Take advantage of the public art installations as you wander, and consider packing a picnic to enjoy in the covered area, perhaps utilizing the free WiFi for a shared digital moment. The park's relaxed atmosphere makes it ideal for unwinding and enjoying each other's company or some personal reflection.
🐶 Dog Owners
Remember to bring waste bags to clean up after your dog and ensure they have enough water, especially on warmer days. The open spaces and river views provide a stimulating environment for dogs to explore alongside their owners.
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
Exploring the Riverfront Trail and Art
The trail also provides excellent vantage points for observing the river's activity, from passing boats to the natural environment. It's a place where history, art, and nature converge, offering a peaceful escape and plenty of visual interest for walkers, joggers, and photographers alike. The path even connects to other trails, such as those on Ft. Hill, extending the exploration possibilities.
For those looking to connect with the community, the Tuesday and Saturday farmers markets are a must-visit. These markets bring local flavor to the park, offering fresh produce, homemade goods, and a chance to interact with local vendors. It's a vibrant addition that enhances the park's appeal beyond its scenic beauty.
Historical Significance and River Views
The park's location on the Kentucky River is central to its identity. The river itself is a dynamic presence, often alive with jet skis and boaters, especially during warmer weather. A small balcony built into the park provides a dedicated spot to overlook the river, offering a moment of quiet contemplation or a perfect backdrop for photos.
Informational plaques along the walkway further enrich the visitor experience by detailing Frankfort's history. This blend of natural riverfront beauty and historical context makes River View Park a place that educates and entertains, offering a glimpse into the heritage of the region.
Park Amenities and Visitor Comfort
For basic needs, two portable bathrooms are available, ensuring convenience for visitors spending extended time at the park. While the park lacks a playground, its focus on a serene riverfront experience, coupled with these practical facilities, makes it a welcoming destination for a relaxed outing.
It's worth noting that the park is a popular spot, and the parking lot can fill up during peak summer times. However, visitors have found it easy to park on the street in downtown Frankfort and walk over, ensuring accessibility even when the main lot is full.
Social
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit