Minnesota
Experiences|Sights & Landmarks

Take A Walk Across The Stone Arch Bridge, Minnesota’s Most Famous Pedestrian Bridge, For Breathtaking Views Of Minneapolis

The Stone Arch Bridge in Minneapolis offers spectacular views of downtown and the Mississippi River, making it a must-visit landmark.

Published Jul 28, 2021

Written by 

Betsy Rathburn

Here in Minnesota, there is no shortage of amazing views. You don't even need to lace up your hiking boots to see many of them! There are scenic drives, easy-access overlooks, and - like the one we'd like to discuss today - bridge walks that offer spectacular views. If you're looking for an outstanding view of downtown Minneapolis, there's no better place to find it than by taking a walk across the Stone Arch Bridge. Don't believe us? Read on below to see the view in pictures - then make plans to see it in person. Check it out:

The Stone Arch Bridge is an iconic landmark in Minneapolis, Minnesota. The bridge was built in 1883 as a railroad bridge spanning the Mississippi River.

alt
Sharon Mollerus/Flickr

The bridge’s iconic arches - 23 in total - are made of granite and limestone. They’ve stood for more than 130 years.

advertisement
alt
jpellgen/Flickr

In 1994, the Stone Arch Bridge was converted to a pedestrian bridge. It spans 2,100 feet, making it a popular place to walk and bike. It's also the setting for many popular Minneapolis events.

alt
Mac H/Flickr

Not only does the bridge have a fantastic view of the busy Mississippi River. It also offers a spectacular view of downtown Minneapolis.

alt
GPA Photo Archive/Flickr

Not only does the bridge have a fantastic view of the busy Mississippi River. It also offers a spectacular view of downtown Minneapolis.

alt
Joe Passe/Flickr

If you haven't walked across the Stone Arch Bridge, it's a must on any Minnesota bucket list - especially for those who enjoy spending time in the Twin Cities. The view from the landmark bridge is nothing short of iconic.

alt
Sharon Mollerus/Flickr

Next time you have a free afternoon or evening - the skyscrapers are gorgeous at night - pay a visit to the Stone Arch Bridge. Whether you do it on wheels or on foot, you will not regret visiting Minnesota's most famous pedestrian bridge!

alt
Mac H/Flickr

Have you ever walked across the Stone Arch Bridge? Do you have any other favorite places to get a great view? Let us know in the comments! And if you're interested in other cool bridges in Minnesota, check out our past article about the Virginia High Bridge, the tallest bridge in Minnesota!

Subscribe to our newsletter

Get the latest updates and news

Experiences|Sights & Landmarks

This 30-Mile Train Ride Is The Most Relaxing Way To Enjoy Minnesota Scenery

The North Shore Scenic Railroad offers a picturesque 30-mile train ride from Duluth to Two Harbors, showcasing stunning views of Minnesota's North Shore.

Updated Jul 24, 2024

Written by 

Betsy Rathburn

The Land of 10,000 Lakes certainly isn't short on beautiful sights. Fortunately, here in Minnesota, there are more than a few excellent scenic train rides that will delight anyone who loves unique outings and admiring our state's coolest spots while traveling in vintage comfort and style. One of the best is a beautiful scenic train ride on the North Shore, starting in Duluth. The Two Harbors Turn on the North Shore Scenic Railroad is a 30-mile excursion that is the most relaxing way to see jaw-dropping waterfront scenery, hands down. Take a look and tell us this scenic train ride in Minnesota isn't just a dream come true.

advertisement

North Shore Scenic Railroad is a popular attraction on Minnesota's North Shore.

alt
Management/TripAdvisor

The train leaves from the depot on Duluth, embarking on a 30-mile journey north to Two Harbors.

alt
North Shore Scenic Railroad/Facebook

On this Duluth train ride to Two Harbors, travelers enjoy beautiful views of the North Shore. Lake Superior's choppy waters are on display from the windows of the historic train.

alt
North Shore Scenic Railroad/Facebook

On the western side of the train, there are views of smaller rivers along the North Shore.

alt
Lori M/TripAdvisor

The North Shore's wooded surroundings are also beautiful. It’s beautiful in spring and summer, but fall is particularly awe-inspiring along this railway.

advertisement
alt
North Shore Scenic Railroad/Facebook

North Shore Scenic train rides include a two-hour layover in Two Harbors, where you can browse or dine to your heart's content.

alt
John/Flickr

This easily-walkable town is full of charming shops and restaurants. You're sure to find something amazing.

alt
S.W. Clyde/Wikimedia

It's also home to a beautiful historic lighthouse.

alt
John_Brueske/Getty

Needless to say, there's a lot to do in Two Harbors! It's a great stop for a wonderful journey.

alt
North Shore Scenic Railroad/Facebook

Scenic trips typically start at 10 a.m. on weekends in Duluth and return around 4 or 5 p.m. Though it is long, this trip is popular and tickets sell out fast - especially in fall - so be sure to book your trip well in advance!

advertisement
alt
North Shore Scenic Railroad/Facebook

You can preview your trip to and from Two Harbors in this YouTube video from North Shore Scenic Railroad:

The North Shore Scenic Railroad in Minnesota is just one of many scenic train ride options across the state, but this little slice of MN is definitely one of our favorite places, and perfect for enjoying via train! What are your favorite things to see and do in Duluth?

Ready for a seriously gorgeous outing? Check out the latest schedule and start planning your next adventure! While you're at it, make the most of your Duluth adventure with an overnight stay in Canal Park.

Have you ever taken a scenic train ride on the North Shore? What about elsewhere in Minnesota? Tell us about your adventures in the comments; we love hearing from you!

Subscribe to our newsletter

Get the latest updates and news

Experiences|Sights & Landmarks

This 100-Year-Old Bridge In Minnesota Offers Some Of The Best Views Of The Mississippi River

The Rock Island Swing Bridge in Inver Grove Heights, Minnesota, is a historic pedestrian bridge offering spectacular views of the Mississippi River.

Updated Jun 6, 2024

Written by 

Betsy Rathburn

We love that Minnesota is full of history. It’s in everything from our state parks to our rock formations to some of our most beautiful buildings. In much of Minnesota's history, you can find that it extends a century or more back in time. That’s certainly the case for one special bridge that has been standing in Inver Grove Heights for more than a century. Though it has a long history, it stands today as a pedestrian bridge that happens to be one of the best spots to see the Mississippi River. Read on to learn more about the Rock Island Swing Bridge, one of the oldest bridges in Minnesota.

advertisement

The Rock Island Swing Bridge is a beautiful - and historic - spot in Inver Grove Heights, Minnesota. It's part of the lovely Swing Bridge Park.

alt
Dmitrij Ponkin/Google

Built in 1894, the bridge is more than 100 years old. At the time, it was one of the only double-decker bridges over the Mississippi River!

alt
Dan Thompson/Google

The bridge's original use was to carry railroad traffic across the river on the top deck. The bottom deck carried road traffic.

alt
Erin Schulte/Google

After nearly 100 years, the bridge closed to rail traffic. The year was 1980, and the railroad that had owned the bridge went bankrupt.

alt
Patrick Cretan/Google

Years later, in 1999, the bridge closed to rail traffic as well. Another blow to the bridge occurred 10 years later when part of it was demolished.

advertisement
alt
Rock Island Swing Bridge/Google

But in just a few years, that would all change. In 2011, the bridge opened to pedestrian traffic!

alt
Krista Linn/Google

It is now one of the most beautiful Mississippi River overlooks. You can walk, bike, or skate across it.

alt
Moua Her/Google

Next time you're in the area, make sure to stop at this historic bridge. Not only is it full of history, but it offers spectacular views.

alt
Scottie Tuska/Google

Have you heard of the Rock Island Swinging Bridge, one of the oldest bridges in Minnesota? Would you ever visit? For a different perspective of the river, check out this Twin Cities Tour & Mississippi River Cruise from Bloomington. It’s a great way to spend the rest of your day in the area.

Also, to witness a newer - but still beautiful - bridge excursion, check out this hike across the tallest bridge in Minnesota.

https://www.onlyinyourstate.com/minnesota/trail-crossing-highest-bridge-mn/

Subscribe to our newsletter

Get the latest updates and news

All Stories

Nature
Hiking

These 50 Scenic Hikes in the U.S. Lead to the Best Fall Foliage in Every State

by Megan Todaro
on Sep 6
alt
Nature
Hiking

The 3.1-Mile Hiking Trail in Rhode Island That Is a Fall Foliage Wonderland

by Beth Price-Williams
on Sep 6
alt
Food
Restaurants

Savor Spain’s Culinary Delights at Connecticut’s Premier Mediterranean Restaurant

by Lisa Sammons
on Sep 6
alt
Nature
Parks & Gardens

The Completely Free Nature Spot Hiding in a New York Park Is a Must-Visit

by Raymond Goldfield
on Sep 6
alt
Stays
Vacation Rentals

The Unique Getaway Where You Can View the Best Fall Foliage in New Jersey

by Raymond Goldfield
on Sep 6
alt