Oliver Lewis Way Bridge - A pedestrian bridge over a paved path
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Oliver Lewis Way Bridge

4.6
·491k reviews·Lexington, United States

A modern bridge honoring the first Kentucky Derby winner, Oliver Lewis, and connecting Lexington's revitalized Town Branch Commons.

Highlights

Highlights

Must-see attractions

Social content

Social

From TikTok & Reddit

Best Time

Spring and Fall mornings

Pleasant weather for exploring

CrowdLow
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Oliver Lewis Way Bridge - A pedestrian bridge over a paved path

Oliver Lewis Way Bridge

Best Time

Spring and Fall mornings

Pleasant weather for exploring

CrowdLow
Highlights

Highlights

Must-see attractions

A modern bridge honoring the first Kentucky Derby winner, Oliver Lewis, and connecting Lexington's revitalized Town Branch Commons.

4.6
(491k reviews)

"A beautiful tribute to a forgotten hero and a vital link in Lexington's growing urban trail system."

Vertical photo
TIP

🚶‍♀️ Stroll the Commons

Enjoy a walk or bike ride along the Town Branch Commons Trail connected to the bridge. :athletic_shoe:

📚 Learn Oliver Lewis's Story

Discover the history of the first Kentucky Derby winner, Oliver Lewis. :books:

Third hero image

Highlights

Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences

Oliver Lewis's Legacy

Oliver Lewis's Legacy

A tribute to the pioneering Black jockey who won the inaugural Kentucky Derby.

Town Branch Commons Trail

Town Branch Commons Trail

Connecting downtown Lexington

A scenic urban trail perfect for a stroll or bike ride, linking key city areas.

Gateway to Town Branch Park

Gateway to Town Branch Park

Adjacent to the bridge

The upcoming centerpiece of the commons, promising green space and community events.

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Planning Your Visit

Understand the History

Oliver Lewis Way Bridge honors Oliver Lewis, the Black jockey who won the first Kentucky Derby. Learn about his legacy and the significance of this landmark.

Connect with the Commons

The bridge is part of the Town Branch Commons, a revitalized urban trail. Explore the surrounding parks and public spaces for a complete experience.

Best Times

When
Spring and Fall mornings
Why
Pleasant weather for exploring
Crowd
Low
When
Weekday afternoons
Why
Fewer crowds, more peaceful
Crowd
Low

Insider Tips

from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit

Our castle on the hill. #castleonthehill #mystateisbetterthanyours #versailles #castle #lexington #kentucky
@ashleeoliver23
8.9K likes • 81.6K views

🚶‍♀️ Stroll the Commons

Enjoy a walk or bike ride along the Town Branch Commons Trail connected to the bridge. :athletic_shoe:

📚 Learn Oliver Lewis's Story

Discover the history of the first Kentucky Derby winner, Oliver Lewis. :books:

Places to Avoid when visiting Lexington Kentucky #lexington #lexingtonky #lexingtonkentucky #sharethelex #visitlex #kentucky #fyp #explorepage #PlacesToVisit #thingstodo
@hoodmaps
2K likes • 51.7K views
The First Kentucky Derby Winner Was a Black Teen In 1875, a 19-year-old Black jockey named Oliver Lewis won the very first Kentucky Derby and then history tried to forget him. We’re here to remember. 👉 Each One Teach One. Visit WeBlackChat.com #BlackHistory #KentuckyDerby #OliverLewis #HiddenHistory #EachOneTeachOne #BlackJockeys #DerbyDay #HistoryMatters #raceday #churchilldowns #jockey #horseba...
@we.black.chat
1.3K likes • 14.1K views

🌳 Explore Nearby Parks

Visit Town Branch Park and other green spaces for relaxation and events. :park:

Looking for things to do in Lexington? Go to @thepaddockbarlex !! #lexington #keeneland #courtesyoftheredwhiteandblue #collegebar #sec
@dj_catch
1.3K likes • 9.4K views

Tips

from all over the internet

🚶‍♀️ Stroll the Commons

Enjoy a walk or bike ride along the Town Branch Commons Trail connected to the bridge. :athletic_shoe:

📚 Learn Oliver Lewis's Story

Discover the history of the first Kentucky Derby winner, Oliver Lewis. :books:

🌳 Explore Nearby Parks

Visit Town Branch Park and other green spaces for relaxation and events. :park:

What Travellers Say

4.6
(491k reviews)

Reviews Summary

Visitors appreciate the Oliver Lewis Way Bridge as a significant historical tribute and a key part of the revitalized Town Branch Commons. The accessible trails and green spaces are highlighted as major draws for recreation and relaxation.

What People Like

Honors Oliver Lewis
Part of Town Branch Commons
Accessible trails

What People Dislike

Still developing

Frequently Asked Questions

🚇 🗺️ Getting There

The Oliver Lewis Way Bridge is located in downtown Lexington, Kentucky, and is easily accessible by car, public transport, or on foot. It's a key part of the Town Branch Commons, so navigating to the trail system will lead you to the bridge. Parking is available in nearby garages and lots. TikTok

Yes, the Town Branch Commons trail and the bridge are designed to be accessible, offering a smooth surface for wheelchairs and strollers. Reddit

Walking or biking the Town Branch Commons Trail is highly recommended. You can also explore nearby downtown attractions and parks. Reddit

🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry

No, Oliver Lewis Way Bridge and the Town Branch Commons are public spaces and are free to access. TikTok

As an outdoor public space, the bridge and the Town Branch Commons are generally accessible during daylight hours. Specific park hours may apply to adjacent areas. Reddit

🎫 🏞️ Onsite Experience

The bridge itself is a landmark honoring Oliver Lewis. The main attraction is walking or biking the connected Town Branch Commons Trail and enjoying the urban green space. TikTokReddit

Absolutely! The Town Branch Commons Trail is bike-friendly, and the bridge is a part of this route, making it a great spot for cycling. Reddit

While the bridge is a tribute, look for informational signage along the Town Branch Commons that details the history of the area and figures like Oliver Lewis. TikTok

Town Branch Park is an upcoming central green space within the Town Branch Commons, designed to be a hub for community events and recreation. Reddit

📸 📸 Photography

Capture the bridge's modern architecture, the surrounding urban landscape, and the scenic views along the Town Branch Commons Trail. The bridge itself is a great subject. TikTok

Early morning or late afternoon often provide softer light and fewer crowds, ideal for photography. Golden hour can offer beautiful shots of the bridge and trail. TikTok

For Different Travelers

Tailored advice for your travel style

👨‍👩‍👧 Families with Kids

The Oliver Lewis Way Bridge and the Town Branch Commons offer a safe and engaging environment for families. The accessible trails are perfect for strollers and little legs, allowing kids to explore the urban green space. Pack a picnic to enjoy in one of the developing park areas, and use the opportunity to teach children about local history and the significance of Oliver Lewis in a relatable way. TikTokReddit

🚶‍♀️ Pedestrian & Cyclists

For those who prefer to explore on foot or by bike, the Oliver Lewis Way Bridge is a dream. It's seamlessly integrated into the Town Branch Commons Trail, a dedicated path designed for non-motorized transit. Enjoy a scenic ride or walk through the heart of Lexington, connecting various downtown attractions without the hassle of traffic. Reddit

Deep Dives

In-depth insights and expert knowledge

The Legacy of Oliver Lewis

The Oliver Lewis Way Bridge is more than just a crossing; it's a significant tribute to Oliver Lewis, a remarkable figure in horse racing history. In 1875, Lewis, a 19-year-old Black jockey, rode Aristides to victory in the inaugural Kentucky Derby. Despite this monumental achievement, his story, like many Black athletes of that era, was largely overlooked by mainstream history. The bridge serves as a vital reminder of his pioneering spirit and his contribution to a sport deeply intertwined with Kentucky's identity. TikTok

This landmark is part of a broader effort in Lexington to acknowledge and celebrate Black history. By naming this prominent bridge after him, the city ensures that his legacy is visible and remembered by residents and visitors alike. It's a powerful symbol of progress and a call to recognize the often-hidden contributions of Black individuals in shaping American culture and sports. TikTok

Exploring the Town Branch Commons

The Oliver Lewis Way Bridge is a central component of the Town Branch Commons, an ambitious urban revitalization project transforming a historic waterway into a vibrant public space. This interconnected network of parks, trails, and green spaces aims to reconnect downtown Lexington with its natural and historical roots. The Commons offers a refreshing escape from the urban bustle, providing walking and biking paths, recreational areas, and a place for community gathering. Reddit

Visitors can enjoy a leisurely stroll or a bike ride along the Town Branch Commons Trail, which the bridge is a part of. The trail system connects various points of interest in downtown Lexington, making it easier to explore the city on foot or by bike. As development continues, the Commons is set to become an even more significant destination, with Town Branch Park envisioned as a major centerpiece for events and relaxation. Reddit

This initiative not only enhances the aesthetic appeal of Lexington but also promotes a healthier, more active lifestyle for its residents and visitors. The integration of historical elements, like the Oliver Lewis Way Bridge, with modern urban planning creates a unique and engaging experience for everyone. Reddit

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