The Arkansas River borders the Riverdale area, which is situated between downtown Little Rock and the Hillcrest and Heights neighborhoods. Riverdale is a patchwork of residential and commercial areas and is dotted with popular parks and soccer fields.

The neighborhood’s zero-lot homes on Canal Pointe, waterfront-inspired homes with magnificent views of downtown to the south and rugged clay-colored cliffs to the east, are priced from $400,000 up.

Jogging, Biking

Rebsamen Park and Murray Park draw residents to the Riverdale are daily for golf, jogging and biking trails, soccer fields and playgrounds. Murray Park features a dog park, where four-legged residents can run free while their owners mix and mingle.

Specialty shops like Cynthia East Fabrics and MertinsDykeHome bustle near the local Mercedes dealership and draw shoppers from across the city, and several restaurants in the area are consistent winners on several critic and reader polls. Bené Vita has caught the attention of the folks at Bon Appetite magazine for its creative Italian cuisine.

Great Dining

Food Network host Rachael Ray picked Loca Luna as one of her favorites on a visit to Little Rock a few years ago. Authentic Cajun delicacies can be found at the Faded Rose, and Buffalo Grill’s burgers are a favorite. Brave New Restaurant overlooks the Arkansas River and delights diners at lunch and dinner.

During early evenings and weekends the Junior Deputy Baseball field nearby is filled with cheering parents. Also close by is Dillard’s corporate headquarters and Episcopal Collegiate School, an impressive independent school campus serving students in grades 6 â€" 12.