Take A Journey Through This One-Of-A-Kind Bridge Park In Minnesota

As the Land of 10,000 Lakes, many people overlook just how much other water Minnesota has. There are more than 6,000 rivers in our beautiful state, many of which have been important not only to Minnesota, but to the entire region's - and country's - economic development. The most important river? None other than the Mighty Mississippi. In fact, it is the very reason that First Bridge Park in Minneapolis exists. Read on to learn more about this one-of-a-kind bridge park in Minnesota.

As you probably know, Minneapolis lies along the Mississippi River. Its development hinged on the river's power, with many mills popping up along the banks.

Because of its importance, the area was quickly developed. In 1855, Franklin Steele - an early settler of Minneapolis - built a suspension bridge over the Mississippi.

Not only was this the first bridge across the Mississippi River in Minnesota. It was the first bridge over the river anywhere.

Decades later, long after the original bridge had been rebuilt, the city acquired 22 acres of land to create the park. It was finally completed in 2001.

First Bridge Park features the footings from the first three bridges built in the area.

The park also features a beautiful walkway complete with seating along the river. It's a perfect place to watch the river flow southward as the city swirls around you.

First Bridge Park is located under the Hennepin Avenue Bridge between West River Parkway and the Mississippi River. Visit to learn more about Minnesota's early history and bask in the beauty of Minneapolis.

Have you ever walked along the Mississippi River at First Bridge Park? Let us know what you thought! And if you love bridges, don't forget to check out the only remaining covered bridge in Minnesota.