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About The Riverwalk

The Detroit Riverwalk, voted best in the country three years in a row by USA Today 10Best, connects parks, greenways, and communities along the Detroit River.

Currently stretching almost four miles from Gabriel Richard Park on the east to Riverfront Towers west of downtown, the Riverwalk allows visitors to enjoy the beauty of the Detroit Riverfront by foot, bicycle, roller skates or any non-motorized method of transportation.

The expansion of the Riverwalk west of Riverfront Towers will soon connect to the future Ralph C. Wilson, Jr. Centennial Park, opening in October of 2025.

Related Attractions

Birding Spots

The Detroit Riverfront is home to a range of beautiful birds, including the blue jay, red cardinal, geese, and ducks. While walking the riverfront you will find bird watching station locations with birding scopes to help you spot all your favorite birds.

Bob's Barge (Seasonal)

Gracing the shores at Robert C. Valade Park from May to October, this seasonal attraction is open Wednesday to Sunday during the warmer months, providing visitors with a fabulous view of the Detroit River while enjoying a beverage on sunny day.

Cafe at Valade & Shed Bar

Cafe at Valade, featuring Smokey G's Smokehouse is your go-to destination for delicious smoked BBQ in Detroit! The Shed Bar serves up a variety of libations with a full bar and drink specials throughout the seasons.

Cullen Café & Tiki Bar (Seasonal)

The Cullen Tiki Bar and Café are located on the Riverwalk at Cullen Plaza. The Café serves up tasty meals and treats right in the heart of the Detroit Riverfront.

Cullen Family Carousel (Seasonal)

Instead of traditional horses, this carousel features creatures indigenous to the Detroit River, such as the egret, snail, frog, heron and sturgeon.

Fishing Access Points

There are multiple locations along the Detroit Riverfront that provide easy access for fishing in the Detroit River. Please refer to the map for suggested locations to enjoy your time fishing along the Detroit Riverfront.

Mogo Bike Rentals

Looking for a fun and fast way to get around the Riverwalk and greenways? Mogo Bike Rentals have multiple locations along the Detroit Riverfront including Mt. Elliott Park, Valade Park, Dequindre Cut, GM Plaza and Southwest Greenway.

Mt. Elliott Café (Seasonal)

Located under the pavilion at Mt. Elliott Park, the Mt. Elliott Café is your perfect stop for a refreshing snack or beverage while enjoying the stunning views of the Detroit Riverfront or cooling off on the splash pad.

Volleyball Court at Valade

Come join us at Valade Park’s very own beach volleyball court. Bring your family and friends to participate in some friendly volleyball games while enjoying your time on the Detroit Riverfront.

Wheelhouse Detroit

Wheelhouse Detroit, located at Cullen Plaza, offers bike rentals, guided tours, bike repairs and bikes and accessories for purchase. Guided tours of the Detroit Riverfront and other areas of the city cater to every ability level and interest.

Related Events

Riverfront Run 2025

The Detroit Riverfront Run is a 5K and 10K run or walk held each year along the Detroit Riverwalk and the Dequindre Cut.

Before
After

A Brief History

The Detroit Riverfront Conservancy was formed in 2003 with the mission of developing public access to the Detroit Riverfront through the establishment of the Detroit Riverwalk and associated green spaces.

The first half mile of the Riverwalk was donated to the Detroit Riverfront Conservancy from General Motors and includes the stretch of pathway that leads from the Renaissance Center to Cullen Plaza. From there, the Conservancy began acquiring property and easements to continue the expansion of the Riverwalk both east and west of downtown.

In 2023, the final stretch of the Riverwalk along the East Riverfront was completed across the former Uniroyal Tire Factory property and opened to the public in October of 2023.

Photo Gallery

Frequently Asked Questions

Q: How long is the Detroit Riverwalk?

The Riverwalk currently stretches just over four miles.

Q: Where can I park to visit the Riverwalk?

Click here to view our map which includes parking location along the Riverwalk.

Q: Are there bathrooms along the Riverwalk?

All of our parks have public restrooms that are open during regular park hours from 6 a.m. to 10 p.m. These include Gabriel Richard Park, Mt. Elliott Park, Robert C. Valade Park, Cullen Plaza.

Q: What is the vision for completion of the Riverwalk?

Our vision is to complete 5.5 miles of Riverwalk that extends from the MacArthur Bridge to Belle Isle all the way to the Ambassador Bridge. Currently, we have completed over four miles of Riverwalk and with the opening of Ralph C. Wilson, Jr. Centennial Park we will be close to five miles.

Q: Where does the Riverwalk begin and end?

On the east, the Riverwalk begins at Gabriel Richard Park, just east of the MacArthur Bridge to Belle Isle. On the west, the Riverwalk ends just past Riverfront Towers and currently connects to Jefferson Ave. with a temporary pathway. In 2025, the Riverwalk will extend into Ralph C. Wilson, Jr. Centennial Park upon the opening of our new 22-acre public space.

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