Phase I of River Place opened in the Summer of 2001. River Place features 32 retail shops and restaurants, the Bavarian Belle -- a nostalgic paddlewheel riverboat ride, a family entertainment center, laser light show, and a Michael Garman Museum, where sculptured art comes to theatrical life.

All facades, turrets, spires, fountains, railings, walkways and bridges at River Place are patterned in the architectural style of Bavaria, Germany. Construction details include a manufactured river and snow melt sidewalk system. Future phases at the complex will include 35 more shops and an 186 room riverfront hotel.