Jackson Street Bridge
Iconic Atlanta skyline viewpoint and a famous filming location for The Walking Dead.
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Golden hour magic
Jackson Street Bridge
Best Time
Golden hour magic
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Iconic Atlanta skyline viewpoint and a famous filming location for The Walking Dead.
"This is where you get that iconic shot of the ATL skyline!"
🎯 Best Photo Spot
Use the pedestrian sidewalk for the clearest, most iconic skyline shots. :camerawithflash:
🚗 Parking Strategy
Try MLK National Historic Park lot for free parking, then walk up. :car:
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
Iconic Atlanta Skyline View
Pedestrian sidewalk
Capture the breathtaking Atlanta skyline, especially stunning during sunrise and sunset.
The Walking Dead Filming Location
Bridge itself
Stand where Rick Grimes rode into the post-apocalyptic city in Season 1.
Light Trail Photography
Bridge overlook
Capture mesmerizing light trails from car headlights at night with long exposure shots.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Timing is Everything for the Perfect Shot
Parking & Access Tips
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
🎯 Best Photo Spot
Use the pedestrian sidewalk for the clearest, most iconic skyline shots. :camerawithflash:
🚗 Parking Strategy
Try MLK National Historic Park lot for free parking, then walk up. :car:
🌅 Golden Hour is Key
Sunrise or sunset offers the most spectacular light for skyline photos. :sunriseovermountains:
🚶♀️ Respect the Neighborhood
Be mindful of residents and keep noise levels down. :pray:
Tips
from all over the internet
🎯 Best Photo Spot
Use the pedestrian sidewalk for the clearest, most iconic skyline shots. :camerawithflash:
🚗 Parking Strategy
Try MLK National Historic Park lot for free parking, then walk up. :car:
🌅 Golden Hour is Key
Sunrise or sunset offers the most spectacular light for skyline photos. :sunriseovermountains:
🚶♀️ Respect the Neighborhood
Be mindful of residents and keep noise levels down. :pray:
🎬 Walking Dead Fan Must-See
This is the famous bridge from Season 1's opening scene. :tv:
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Visitors rave about the Jackson Street Bridge for its spectacular Atlanta skyline views, especially during sunrise and sunset, and its iconic status as a filming location for The Walking Dead. It's a free and accessible spot for great photos, though parking can be a challenge and some areas may show signs of wear or graffiti.
"Pretty easy to get to. This is where the opening scene of The Walking Dead is filmed. Lovely view of the skyline from here. You can get nice light trail photos at night with long exposures."
Emptynesters Travels
"This bridge is a much of Atlanta then anything I can think of . Homage to MLK is within walking distance. Parks are all around the place. It’s just a wonderful spot. It’s difficult to get the skyline of Atlanta because of all the foliage you know the city in the forest yeah we like that."
James F Snyder II
"If you want an iconic shot of the ATL, this is one of the best possible choices!
There’s just enough space to park on the north side of the overpass but put on your emergency blinkers!
Expect some other people to be there trying to take photos, keep it friendly and respectful of the neighborhood 👍."
Ric Wallace
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
The Jackson Street Bridge is located in Atlanta, Georgia. Many visitors recommend parking at the MLK National Historic Park parking lot and walking up the hill to the bridge. Some street parking is available on the north side of the overpass, but be sure to use your emergency blinkers.
Parking can be challenging. The MLK National Historic Park parking lot is a good free option. Street parking is sometimes available but can be limited and requires caution.
Yes, it's easily accessible by foot, especially if you park at the nearby MLK National Historic Park. The walk up the hill offers a pleasant approach to the viewpoint.
While specific public transport routes can vary, using ride-sharing services or checking local Atlanta transit maps for bus routes near the MLK National Historic Park is advisable.
Recent reports indicate ongoing renovations to improve pedestrian and cyclist safety. It's advisable to check local news or city planning updates for the most current information on access. 
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
No, Jackson Street Bridge is a public space and does not require an admission ticket. Enjoying the skyline view is completely free.
As a public bridge, it is generally accessible 24/7. However, for the best photographic opportunities and safety, visiting during daylight hours or well-lit evenings is recommended.
There is no entrance fee to access Jackson Street Bridge. It's a free public viewpoint for everyone to enjoy.
Yes, you can visit at night to see the city lights. It's a popular spot for night photography, capturing light trails from vehicles.
While the bridge is technically always open, it's best to visit during safe and well-lit hours. Be mindful of local noise ordinances if visiting late at night.
📸 📸 Photography & Views
The best times for photography are sunrise and sunset, known as the 'golden hours,' for spectacular lighting. Nighttime offers stunning city lights and light trails.
The most iconic view is the panoramic skyline of downtown Atlanta, Georgia. It's a classic postcard shot of the city.
Absolutely! Jackson Street Bridge is famous for being the filming location of the opening scene in Season 1 of The Walking Dead.
Light trail photography at night is very popular, capturing the movement of cars. Sunrise and sunset shots of the skyline are also highly sought after.
While the view is generally clear, some reviews mention foliage can sometimes obstruct parts of the city, especially during certain seasons. Renovations are also underway.
🎫 🚶 Onsite Experience
The primary activity is enjoying and photographing the Atlanta skyline. It's also a significant filming location for The Walking Dead fans.
Renovations are being made to improve pedestrian and cyclist safety. Always be aware of your surroundings and any ongoing construction.
Restroom facilities are not directly on the bridge itself. Visitors may need to use facilities at nearby parks or attractions, such as the MLK National Historic Park.
It can get crowded, especially during sunrise, sunset, and weekends. Visiting on a weekday morning can offer a more peaceful experience.
The Martin Luther King, Jr. National Historical Park is within walking distance, offering significant historical context and exhibits.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
Pairing a visit with the nearby MLK National Historical Park can turn it into an educational outing. The park offers engaging exhibits that can captivate children's attention, and the short walk between the two sites is manageable. Remember to bring snacks and water, as amenities directly on the bridge are limited.
📸 Photography Enthusiasts
Night photography here is also a must-do. Experiment with long exposures to create mesmerizing light trails from the traffic below. The bridge's elevated position offers a unique perspective that's hard to find elsewhere in the city.
🎬 The Walking Dead Fans
Stand on the bridge and imagine the scene, or capture your own photos with the city skyline that served as the backdrop for that pivotal moment. It's a simple yet powerful connection to the show's legacy.
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
The Iconic Atlanta Skyline View
+1For the most dramatic and visually appealing photographs, timing is crucial. Sunrise and sunset are particularly magical, bathing the city in warm, golden light that accentuates the skyscrapers. Many creators on TikTok and Instagram share stunning time-lapses and golden hour shots from this very location.
+1Even at night, the bridge transforms into a photographer's dream. The city lights create a dazzling spectacle, and with a tripod and long exposure, you can capture beautiful light trails from the passing vehicles below, adding a dynamic element to your cityscape images.
A Must-Visit for The Walking Dead Fans
This scene is etched in the memories of many fans, and standing on the bridge allows you to recreate that moment or simply appreciate the filming history. While the bridge itself is the primary draw for fans, the surrounding area also offers a glimpse into the Atlanta that served as a backdrop for many of the show's early episodes.
It's worth noting that while the bridge is a filming location, the poster for Season 1 was digitally altered for dramatic effect. Nevertheless, the real-life bridge provides an authentic connection to the show's origins.
Navigating Parking and Access
A more reliable and recommended strategy, frequently shared on Reddit, is to utilize the free parking at the MLK National Historic Park. From there, it's a relatively short and scenic walk up the hill directly to the bridge. This approach not only secures a parking spot but also allows you to incorporate a visit to a significant historical landmark.
Recent updates indicate that the bridge is undergoing renovations to enhance its safety and accessibility for pedestrians and cyclists. While these improvements are beneficial in the long run, it's wise to stay informed about any temporary access restrictions or changes during the construction period.
+1
Social
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit