If you’ve spent any time in Minnesota, you’ve probably at least heard of the Stone Arch Bridge in Minneapolis. And if you’ve spent time in the Twin Cities, you may have even walked across it a time or two. This bridge is a feat of engineering that has been a Minneapolis icon for more than a century. It is historic, but it’s also beautiful - and impressive. Read on below to learn more about this famous bridge’s history and how it shapes Minneapolis today.
The Stone Arch Bridge is an icon in Minneapolis, Minnesota.
It spans the Mississippi River and is the only arched stone bridge on the river’s entire 2,340-mile length. How long is the Stone Arch bridge, itself? It is 2,100 feet long and 23 feet wide, and it’s made up of 23 arches.
The bridge was initially built as a railroad bridge. It was completed more than 130 years ago, in 1883.
Over the decades, it carried many passengers. There were also many improvements made during that time. It was strengthened, widened, and renovated.
But in 1971, less than 100 years after it was completed, the Stone Arch Bridge carried its last passenger train.
In 1992, ownership of the bridge transferred to the Minnesota Department of Transportation.
It became a pedestrian path maintained by the Minneapolis Park Board two years later and remains a popular place to walk today!
To this day, the bridge is a striking landmark in downtown Minneapolis.
Those who walk or bike along the bridge will have outstanding views of the Mississippi River…
…and even better views of the Minneapolis skyline.
The bridge hosts many events, too.
Thousands of people watch fireworks from the bridge every year.
It’s also home to the Stone Arch Bridge Festival, a summer festival that features local music and art.
This bridge is an engineering marvel that has stood the test of time for more than a century. Its beauty and history make it one of Minnesota’s most iconic places!
One of the best ways to learn more about this fascinating slice of Minnesota history is to take a guided tour of the bridge and the city's riverfront. Have you ever visited the Stone Arch Bridge in Minneapolis? Let us know in the comments! Also, check out our article about a much newer Minnesota bridge, the Virginia High Bridge in Virginia, Minnesota.
Editor's Note: The Stone Arch Bridge will be under construction between 2024 and 2025. During this time, it will be subjected to partial closures.
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