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. 

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.
Oldest Bridges In Minnesota
Rock Island Swing Bridge, 4465 66th St E, Inver Grove Heights, MN 55076, USA
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!
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.
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.
Patrick Cretan/Google

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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.
Oldest Bridges In Minnesota
Rock Island Swing Bridge/Google
But in just a few years, that would all change. In 2011, the bridge opened to pedestrian traffic!
Krista Linn/Google
It is now one of the most beautiful Mississippi River overlooks. You can walk, bike, or skate across it.
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.
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.

The Beautiful Minnesota Trail That Crosses The Highest Bridge In The State

 

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More to Explore

Sights And Landmarks In Minnesota

Melanie J. | June 06, 2024

What are some more historic landmarks in Minnesota that are worth exploring?

If you love history like we do, then check out our recommendations for some of the best historic landmarks in Minnesota.

  • Historic Fort Snelling, St Paul
  • Grand Portage National Monument, Grand Portage
  • Zumbrota Covered Bridge, Zumbrota
  • Hermann Heights Monument, New Ulm
  • The James J. Hill House, St Paul
  • Minnesota Military Museum, Little Falls
  • Hull–Rust–Mahoning Open Pit Iron Mine, Hibbing
  • Mille Lacs Kathio State Park, Onamia
  • Plummer Building, Rochester
  • St. Croix Boom Site, Stillwater Township
  • Split Rock Lighthouse, Two Harbors
  • Lake Vermilion-Soudan Underground Mine State Park, Soudan
  • Mill City Museum, Minneapolis

You’ll want to read our previous article to learn more about these historic landmarks in Minnesota.

Are there more bridges in Minnesota worth visiting?

Yes, there are several covered, stone, swinging, and suspension bridges in Minnesota that belong on your list:

  • Wabasha Street Bridge, St Paul
  • Hennepin Avenue Bridge, Minneapolis
  • Holdingford Bridge, Holdingford
  • Stone Arch Bridge, Minneapolis
  • Lake of the Isles Bridge, St. Paul
  • Waterford Historic Bridge, Northfield
  • Bong Bridge, Duluth
  • High Falls Suspension Bridge, Silver Bay
  • Million Dollar Bridge, Pine City
  • Virginia High Bridge, Virginia
  • Granite Falls Suspension Bridge, Granite Falls 

Check out our article to learn more about these incredible bridges in Minnesota. 

What are some natural wonders in Minnesota?

While we love man-made landmarks, here are some natural wonders in Minnesota that are equally notable:

  • Pipestone National Monument - Pipestone
  • Gooseberry Falls, Two Harbors
  • Pigeon River High Falls, Grand Portage
  • Black Beach, Silver Bay
  • Minnehaha Falls - Minneapolis
  • Eagle Mountain, Grand Marais
  • Niagara Cave, Harmony
  • Artist's Point, Grand Marais
  • Devil's Kettle, Hovland
  • Magnetic Rock, Duluth
  • St. Croix River Dalles, Dresser
  • Palisade Head, Silver Bay

Read this article to discover more about these natural wonders in Minnesota.

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Rock Island Swing Bridge, 4465 66th St E, Inver Grove Heights, MN 55076, USA