Willy D’s Breaks Ground on New Home in North Little Rock
NORTH LITTLE ROCK, AR — November 4, 2025 — After more than two decades of unforgettable nights, sing-along anthems, and celebrations in the heart of Little Rock’s River Market District, Willy D’s is officially breaking ground on its brand-new home — just across the river at the corner of Broadway and Poplar in North Little Rock, directly in front of Simmons Bank Arena.
The new location marks an exciting new chapter for the beloved Arkansas entertainment venue. The future Willy D’s will feature a fresh, modern design with a mezzanine, a flexible multi-purpose stage, and an updated atmosphere — while keeping the same legendary dueling piano show and nostalgia that guests know and love.
“We’re excited about this new chapter,” said Susan Erwin Prowse, Marketing Director for Willy D’s. “There’s no better place than a piano bar to party, create memories, and bring people together. This move allows us to evolve while keeping the heart and soul of what makes Willy D’s special.”
The new space will focus entirely on the high-energy, interactive dueling piano experience that guests have come to know and love. The DEEP Ultra Lounge from the previous location will not continue at the new site, allowing the venue to focus solely on the live entertainment that made it famous.
Owner Danny W. Brown began exploring relocation opportunities several years ago, and the timing aligned perfectly with the city’s exciting new development plans surrounding Simmons Bank Arena and the forthcoming North Little Rock Convention Center.
Brown worked closely with longtime performers Cliff and Susan Prowse, Greg Nabholz of Nabholz Properties Inc., and H+N Architects, blending modern elements with the nostalgia and warmth of the classic Willy D’s environment.
“This isn’t the end of a song, it’s the next verse,” said Danny W. Brown. “We’re honored to have been part of so many memories for our guests over the years, and we can’t wait to create new ones in our next home.”
Willy D’s has long been known as a central hub for live music and nightlife in Central Arkansas, drawing crowds for birthdays, bachelorette parties, anniversaries, and nights out with friends. Its dueling piano players — drawn from across the country — bring unmatched energy and showmanship to every performance.
The art form itself has deep roots: dueling pianos began in the 1930s in New Orleans, eventually spreading to cities nationwide as one of America’s most unique and interactive entertainment experiences. Most major cities now boast at least one dueling piano bar — and Willy D’s has proudly represented Arkansas on that national map since 2003.
Construction on the new venue is expected to move quickly following the groundbreaking on Wednesday, Nov. 12, at 11 AM. More details on opening dates, design reveals, and hiring announcements will be shared on Willy D’s website and social media channels in the coming months.
🌐 Website: www.willydspianobar.com
📘 Facebook: facebook.com/willydslr
📸 Instagram: instagram.com/willydslr
About the Mixed-Use Development
The new Willy D’s location is part of a $25 million mixed-use development led by Nabholz Properties Inc., located adjacent to Simmons Bank Arena and the 2nd Street Promenade in North Little Rock.
The project will include a 90-room Aloft Hotel, the relocation of Willy D’s Dueling Pianos, and a 7,000-square-foot event venue, serving as a dynamic new gateway between Argenta Arts District and the growing corridor around the arena.
“This project builds on years of momentum in Argenta and continues our commitment to investing in North Little Rock’s downtown,” said Greg Nabholz, CEO of Nabholz Properties Inc. “It serves as a gateway to Argenta — amplifying the energy of nearby projects like the new North Little Rock Conference Center, the enhanced 2nd Street Promenade, and Argenta Plaza.”
The Aloft Hotel, part of the Marriott family of hotels, will be developed through a partnership between Conway Management and Span Hospitality. Known for its modern design and vibrant social spaces, the Aloft brand complements the area’s growing hospitality and entertainment offerings.
“We’re excited to bring the Aloft brand to North Little Rock,” said Nemo Sitaram, Director of Development for Conway Management. “This property will deliver a high-quality hospitality option steps away from Simmons Bank Arena and the Argenta Arts District.”
Local dignitaries, including North Little Rock Mayor Terry Hartwick, Pulaski County Judge Barry Hyde, and other officials, will attend the groundbreaking ceremony. 103.7 The Buzz will broadcast The Zone live from the event, hosted by Justin Acri and DJ Williams.
For more information on the development, visit nabprop.com/groundbreaking.
