Riverview Park - Riverview Park is one of the most underrated parks in Pittsburgh but I find that it is magnificent.  Take the Three Rivers Heritage Trail along the Ohio River and make a right into Brighton Heights to bike to the top of this scenic hill.  Easily the best bike ride in the city!
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Riverview Park

4.6
·794 reviews·Charlottesville, United States

A 27-acre riverfront preserve with a scenic trail, river access for swimming and boating, and picnic areas.

Highlights

Highlights

Must-see attractions

Social content

Social

From TikTok & Reddit

Best Time

Spring & Fall mornings

Mild weather, fewer crowds

CrowdLow
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Riverview Park - Riverview Park is one of the most underrated parks in Pittsburgh but I find that it is magnificent.  Take the Three Rivers Heritage Trail along the Ohio River and make a right into Brighton Heights to bike to the top of this scenic hill.  Easily the best bike ride in the city!

Riverview Park

Best Time

Spring & Fall mornings

Mild weather, fewer crowds

CrowdLow
Highlights

Highlights

Must-see attractions

A 27-acre riverfront preserve with a scenic trail, river access for swimming and boating, and picnic areas.

4.6
(794 reviews)

"Absolutely beautiful park with such a nice, wide trail by the river for families, doggos, anyone!"

Vertical photo
TIP

🐾 Dog-Friendly Fun

Bring your furry friends! Riverview Park is very dog-friendly and has a great trail for them to explore. :dog:

🚴‍♀️ Bike & Walk Trails

The 4-mile paved trail is perfect for biking or a leisurely walk. Great for all ages and fitness levels. :athletic_shoe:

Third hero image

Highlights

Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences

Rivanna River Trail

Rivanna River Trail

Adjacent to the park

A scenic 4-mile paved path perfect for walking, biking, and spotting wildlife. Offers beautiful river views.

River Access & Swimming

River Access & Swimming

Riverfront

Enjoy the beautiful river for swimming or launching boats. A great spot for cooling off on a warm day.

Playground & Picnic Areas

Playground & Picnic Areas

Within the park

A dedicated playground for kids and several picnic areas make it a family-friendly spot for a day out.

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Planning Your Visit

Embrace the Riverfront Vibe

Riverview Park offers a beautiful 27-acre riverfront escape with a playground and picnic spots. The adjacent trail is perfect for biking and walking, making it a versatile destination for outdoor enthusiasts.

Trail Access & River Fun

The park is a gateway to the Rivanna Trail system, featuring a scenic 4-mile paved path. While the playground is described as 'meh,' the river itself is beautiful and accessible for swimming or launching boats. Be mindful of encampments under bridges.

Best Times

When
Spring & Fall mornings
Why
Mild weather, fewer crowds
Crowd
Low
When
Summer afternoons
Why
Perfect for river dips
Crowd
Medium
When
Weekends
Why
Lively atmosphere
Crowd
High

Insider Tips

from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit

#Palmira 🎡🔥 POV: Te montas en todas las atracciones de River View Park 🚀. De las más extremas 🤯, a las familiares 🎠 y hasta las de terror 👻… la adrenalina está garantizada. 👉 ¿Con quién vivirías este reto? Etiquétalo ya y arma tu plan en la Villa de las Palmas. 📍 Calle 42 con Carrera 25, sector Las Cometas.
riverviewparkcol
173 likes • 11.5K views

🐾 Dog-Friendly Fun

Bring your furry friends! Riverview Park is very dog-friendly and has a great trail for them to explore. :dog:

🚴‍♀️ Bike & Walk Trails

The 4-mile paved trail is perfect for biking or a leisurely walk. Great for all ages and fitness levels. :athletic_shoe:

Otro año más disfrutando de @riverviewparkcol ⭐️🎡 ojalá cada año nos acompañe en Cali 😍🎢 ¡Etiqueta o mándale el video a tus amigos para que vayan YAAA a la rueda 🎠! #larueda #riverviewpark
laurattzz
332 likes • 11.8K views
🌟 Exciting news! 🌟 We’re so happy to share that our new indoor play space will be opening later this year at 411 Palisade Avenue, in a spectacular location just minutes from Riverview Park! 🎉✨ We are designing our Heights haven especially for families with little ones (ages 0–6) — where kids can play, explore, and celebrate, and parents can relax with a coffee and feel supported. ☕💛 Over the co...
sparkplacejc
123 likes • 2.7K views

🧺 Picnic Perfect

Plenty of picnic areas available. Pack a lunch and enjoy the scenic river views. :sandwich:

🛶 River Access

Boat ramp available for easy river access. Kayaking and tubing are popular activities. :kayak:

reddit.com

River Tubing Advice from Darden Towe to Riverview park along Rivanna

Tips

from all over the internet

🐾 Dog-Friendly Fun

Bring your furry friends! Riverview Park is very dog-friendly and has a great trail for them to explore. :dog:

🚴‍♀️ Bike & Walk Trails

The 4-mile paved trail is perfect for biking or a leisurely walk. Great for all ages and fitness levels. :athletic_shoe:

🧺 Picnic Perfect

Plenty of picnic areas available. Pack a lunch and enjoy the scenic river views. :sandwich:

🛶 River Access

Boat ramp available for easy river access. Kayaking and tubing are popular activities. :kayak:

🦉 Wildlife Spotting

Keep an eye out for local wildlife! Visitors have spotted owls and other animals along the trails. :owl:

What Travellers Say

4.6
(794 reviews)

Reviews Summary

Riverview Park is praised for its beautiful riverfront location and the scenic 4-mile paved trail, ideal for walking and biking. Visitors appreciate the dog-friendly atmosphere and the opportunity for river swimming and boating. While the playground receives mixed reviews, the natural beauty and accessibility make it a popular spot for outdoor recreation.

"A great entry point to the rivanna trail system. The playground is kind of meh. The river is beautiful. You can get to the river company on foot. Avoid the encampment beneath the bridge by going over and its great fun."

Heather McDuffee

"Absolutely beautiful park with such a nice, wide trail by the river for families, doggos, anyone! Lots of wildlife to be spotted, first time in my life I've seen an owl in the wild in person actually! Very scenic, lots of nice spots around to eat at or check out while you're in the area."

Samantha Cavanaugh

"This park is clean and well maintained. Right on the rivanna river with a 4 mile paved walking path, boat ramp, playground, dog friendly, always good vibes!"

landon winslow

What People Like

Beautiful riverfront
Scenic paved trail
Dog-friendly atmosphere

What People Dislike

Basic playground

Frequently Asked Questions

🚇 🗺️ Getting There

Riverview Park is located at 27 acres along the riverfront. Specific directions can be found via GPS. It's a popular spot for locals and visitors alike, often mentioned in conjunction with the Rivanna Trail system.

Yes, parking is available at the park, making it convenient for visitors arriving by car. It's a good idea to arrive early on busy days.

Information on public transport access to Riverview Park is limited, but it's generally recommended to drive or use ride-sharing services for easier access.

The park has a main entrance that leads to the playground and picnic areas, with direct access to the riverfront and the adjacent trail system.

The paved 4-mile walking path is generally accessible, making it easier for individuals with mobility challenges to enjoy the park's scenery.

🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry

Riverview Park is generally free to enter, offering a great value for a day of outdoor recreation. :ticket:

Park hours are typically from dawn to dusk, allowing visitors to enjoy the space throughout the day. Always check local listings for any seasonal changes.

No, advance booking is not required for general entry to Riverview Park as it's a public space.

While not always advertised online, local community events can occur. It's best to check local event listings or community boards for any upcoming activities.

Yes, visitors are welcome to bring their own food and drinks to enjoy at the picnic areas. :sandwich:

🎫 🏞️ Onsite Experience

Enjoy walking and biking on the 4-mile paved trail, swimming in the river, picnicking, and using the playground. It's a great spot for nature observation. :camerawithflash:

Reviews suggest the playground is 'kind of meh,' so while it's available, it might not be the main attraction for families with very young children. :child:

Yes, the river is beautiful and accessible for swimming. Visitors also mention the adjacent public pool as an option. :swimmer:

Restroom facilities are typically available at public parks like Riverview, though specific locations should be confirmed upon arrival.

Visitors have reported seeing a variety of wildlife, including owls in their natural habitat, making it a great spot for nature enthusiasts. :butterfly:

🍽️ 🍽️ Food & Dining

There are no restaurants directly within Riverview Park itself. Visitors are encouraged to bring their own food for picnics. :forkandknife:

You can get to 'The River Company' on foot from the park, offering a convenient dining option nearby. :restaurant:

While specific barbecue grills aren't always mentioned, picnic areas are available, suggesting that outdoor dining is encouraged. Check park regulations for grilling specifics.

There are no dedicated cafes or snack bars within Riverview Park. It's best to come prepared with your own snacks and drinks.

Pack a variety of foods, drinks, and a blanket or chairs. The picnic areas offer scenic views, making it a pleasant dining experience. :picnic_table:

📸 📸 Photography

The riverfront offers stunning views, especially along the paved trail. Look for scenic overlooks and areas with abundant wildlife for great shots. :camerawithflash:

Absolutely! The park is known for its natural beauty and wildlife sightings, making it a prime location for nature photographers. :bird:

Early mornings and late afternoons often provide the best lighting for photography, with softer light and fewer harsh shadows. :sunrise:

Drone usage is typically regulated in public parks. It's essential to check local park rules and FAA guidelines before flying a drone for photography.

A versatile lens (like a 24-70mm) is great for general shots, while a telephoto lens can be useful for capturing wildlife from a distance. :camera:

For Different Travelers

Tailored advice for your travel style

👨‍👩‍👧 Families with Kids

Riverview Park offers a good mix of activities for families. While the playground is noted as being a bit basic, the river access is a major highlight for kids, perfect for swimming and cooling off. Reddit The 4-mile paved trail is also great for family walks or bike rides, allowing everyone to enjoy the scenery. Reddit Don't forget to pack a picnic to enjoy in the designated areas, making for a full day of fun. The park is also dog-friendly, so your furry family members can join in on the adventure! :dog:

🚶‍♀️ Active Explorers & Hikers

For those who love to be active, Riverview Park is a gem. The Rivanna Trail system provides a 4-mile paved walking path that's perfect for hiking, jogging, or cycling. Reddit You can easily spend hours exploring the scenic riverfront and enjoying the fresh air. The trail is well-maintained and offers beautiful views, making it a rewarding experience for any outdoor enthusiast. :runner:

🐶 Dog Owners

Riverview Park is a fantastic destination for dog owners. It's consistently described as very family-friendly and dog-friendly, meaning your canine companions are welcome to join you. Reddit The expansive trails offer plenty of space for dogs to walk and explore, and the open areas are great for them to stretch their legs. Remember to keep your dog on a leash where required and always clean up after them. :poop:

Deep Dives

In-depth insights and expert knowledge

Exploring the Rivanna Trail System

Riverview Park serves as a fantastic entry point to the extensive Rivanna Trail system. This network offers a 4-mile paved walking path that is well-maintained and ideal for a variety of activities. Whether you're looking for a leisurely stroll, a brisk walk, or a bike ride, the trail provides scenic views of the river and surrounding nature. It's a popular route for locals and visitors alike, offering a peaceful escape into the outdoors. Reddit

Beyond the paved path, the trail system connects to other areas, allowing for longer excursions. Redditors have noted its accessibility and the opportunity to explore different sections of the riverfront. It's a key feature that enhances the overall appeal of Riverview Park, making it more than just a local playground. Reddit

When exploring the trails, remember to stay aware of your surroundings. While generally safe and well-trafficked, it's always wise to be mindful of other users and any posted park regulations. The river view trail is a highlight, offering constant picturesque scenery. Reddit

Family Fun and River Activities

Riverview Park is a popular spot for families, offering a mix of activities for different ages. While the playground might be considered basic by some, it provides a space for children to play. Reddit The main draw for families, especially during warmer months, is the river access. Visitors can swim directly in the river, which is described as beautiful and refreshing. Reddit

For those looking for more aquatic adventures, the park features a boat ramp, making it easy to launch kayaks, canoes, or even small motorboats. Tubing along the river is also a common activity, offering a fun way to experience the waterway. Reddit The park's dog-friendly nature also means families can bring their pets along for the outing, adding to the inclusive atmosphere. Reddit

Beyond the river, the picnic areas are perfect for family gatherings. Packing a lunch and enjoying a meal with a view of the water enhances the overall experience. The park's open space and natural setting make it an ideal location for a relaxed family day out. Reddit

Wildlife and Nature Observation

Nature enthusiasts will find Riverview Park to be a rewarding destination. The park's natural setting along the river provides a habitat for a variety of wildlife. Visitors have shared exciting encounters, including spotting owls in the wild, which is a memorable experience for many. Reddit

The river view trail is particularly good for observing nature. Keep your eyes peeled for birds, small mammals, and other creatures that inhabit the area. The peaceful environment of the park, away from the hustle and bustle, makes it conducive to spotting wildlife. Reddit

For the best chances of seeing wildlife, consider visiting during the quieter hours of the day, such as early morning or late afternoon. The riverview park nature trails offer opportunities to immerse yourself in the local ecosystem and appreciate the natural beauty of the region. Reddit

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