
Stone Arch Bridge
A historic railroad bridge transformed into a pedestrian walkway, offering iconic views of St. Anthony Falls and the Minneapolis skyline.

Highlights
Must-see attractions

Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Fewer crowds, golden hour light

Stone Arch Bridge
Best Time
Fewer crowds, golden hour light

Highlights
Must-see attractions
A historic railroad bridge transformed into a pedestrian walkway, offering iconic views of St. Anthony Falls and the Minneapolis skyline.
"Iconic stone arch bridge with gorgeous views of St. Anthony Falls and downtown Minneapolis!"

🚶♀️ Walk or Bike Across
Perfect for a leisurely stroll, run, or bike ride with stunning views . :athletic_shoe:
🍦 Ice Cream Stop
Grab a treat from the ice cream truck at Mill Ruins Park on the west side . :icecream:

Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences

St. Anthony Falls Views
East end of the bridge
Witness the power and beauty of St. Anthony Falls, a truly iconic Minneapolis landmark.

Panoramic Cityscape
Center of the bridge
Enjoy breathtaking, sweeping views of the Minneapolis skyline and the Mississippi River.

Historic Railroad Bridge
Entire length of the bridge
Walk or bike across this beautifully restored former railroad bridge, soaking in its history.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Timing Your Visit for the Best Experience
Navigating Access and Parking
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
🚶♀️ Walk or Bike Across
Perfect for a leisurely stroll, run, or bike ride with stunning views.
:athletic_shoe:🍦 Ice Cream Stop
Grab a treat from the ice cream truck at Mill Ruins Park on the west side.
:icecream:📸 Capture the Views
The bridge offers incredible photo ops of the falls and skyline.
:camerawithflash:📅 Check for Events
Look out for events like the Stone Arch Bridge Festival for extra fun.
:calendar:Tips
from all over the internet
🚶♀️ Walk or Bike Across
Perfect for a leisurely stroll, run, or bike ride with stunning views.
:athletic_shoe:🍦 Ice Cream Stop
Grab a treat from the ice cream truck at Mill Ruins Park on the west side.
:icecream:📸 Capture the Views
The bridge offers incredible photo ops of the falls and skyline.
:camerawithflash:📅 Check for Events
Look out for events like the Stone Arch Bridge Festival for extra fun.
:calendar:🅿️ Easy Parking
Many visitors report finding parking to be quite convenient.
:car:What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Visitors consistently praise the Stone Arch Bridge for its breathtaking views of St. Anthony Falls and the Minneapolis skyline, calling it an iconic landmark. Many appreciate the ease of access, convenient parking, and the opportunity for leisurely walks or bike rides. Some have encountered temporary closures due to restoration, but the overall sentiment is overwhelmingly positive.
"What’s not to say!? The iconic stone arch bridge of Minneapolis! There’s a wonderful ice cream truck at the Mill Ruins Park (on the west side of the bridge) that you should check out!!"
thanuja ramesh
"Beautiful bridge and park surrounding it. The bridge was closed for construction on the Minneapolis side when we went so we couldn’t walk across unfortunately."
Brooke P
"Great evening for a walk. Parking was so easy. Lots of people biking, running, walking, ands with their dogs."
J Stevenson
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
The Stone Arch Bridge is easily accessible from downtown Minneapolis and Mill Ruins Park. You can reach it by car, public transport, or even by walking or biking from nearby areas. Parking is generally available, with many visitors finding it convenient.
Yes, parking is available near the Stone Arch Bridge. Many visitors have noted that parking is easy to find, especially in areas like Mill Ruins Park on the west side of the bridge.
Absolutely! The Stone Arch Bridge is a popular spot for biking, offering a scenic route over the Mississippi River with great views.
The best way to experience the Stone Arch Bridge is by walking or biking across it, taking in the panoramic views of St. Anthony Falls and the city skyline.
While specific bus routes can vary, the bridge is located in a central part of Minneapolis, making it accessible via public transport options that serve the downtown area.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
No, visiting the Stone Arch Bridge itself is free. It's a public park and pedestrian walkway, so no tickets are required to walk or bike across it.
The Stone Arch Bridge is generally open to the public year-round, though specific hours might be subject to park regulations or seasonal changes. It's best to check with Minneapolis Parks and Recreation for the most up-to-date information.
Yes, the Stone Arch Bridge has undergone significant restoration. It was partially closed for over a year and officially reopened in July 2025, with a ribbon-cutting ceremony scheduled for August 9th.
It had previously been closed for two summers for repairs.There is no admission fee to access and walk across the Stone Arch Bridge. It's a public space for everyone to enjoy.
The Stone Arch Bridge is often accessible and beautiful at night, offering illuminated views of the city and falls. However, always be mindful of park closing times and safety.
📸 📸 Photography
The best photo spots include the east end for direct views of St. Anthony Falls, the center for panoramic city skyline shots,
and from the surrounding parks like Mill Ruins Park for unique angles of the bridge itself.Golden hour, both sunrise and sunset, offers beautiful lighting for photography. Evenings also provide stunning city lights and a romantic ambiance.
Yes, the Stone Arch Bridge is a popular location for professional photoshoots, including engagement, family, and engagement sessions, due to its iconic backdrop.
Generally, personal photography is welcome. For commercial or large-scale professional shoots, it's advisable to check with Minneapolis Parks and Recreation for any permit requirements.
A wide-angle lens is great for capturing the expansive views and the bridge's architecture. A telephoto lens can be useful for isolating details of the falls or skyline. A tripod is helpful for low-light conditions.
🍽️ 🍽️ Food & Dining
Yes, there are dining options near the Stone Arch Bridge. Mill Ruins Park on the west side often has an ice cream truck,
and the surrounding downtown Minneapolis area offers a wide variety of restaurants and cafes.While there aren't dedicated picnic tables directly on the bridge, the adjacent parks like Mill Ruins Park and the areas around St. Anthony Falls are excellent spots for a picnic with a view.
You can find a diverse range of food options in downtown Minneapolis, from casual cafes and food trucks to upscale dining experiences. The Stone Arch Bridge Festival also features various food vendors.
Several restaurants in the downtown Minneapolis area offer views of the Mississippi River and the Stone Arch Bridge, particularly those located along the riverfront or in buildings overlooking the area, such as the Guthrie Theater.
During warmer months and special events like the Stone Arch Bridge Festival,
food trucks are often present, offering a variety of treats and meals.For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
📸 Photographers & Instagrammers
🏃♀️ Active Visitors & Runners
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
A Walk Through History: The Stone Arch Bridge
After its operational life as a railroad bridge concluded, the Stone Arch Bridge faced potential demolition. However, a strong community effort led to its preservation and transformation into a pedestrian and bicycle bridge. It officially reopened in this new capacity in 1994, offering a unique perspective of the Mississippi River and St. Anthony Falls. The bridge's restoration, including recent extensive work completed in July 2025, ensures its continued legacy as a beloved landmark and recreational space for generations to come.
Today, the bridge stands as a testament to Minneapolis's industrial past and its commitment to urban revitalization. It provides a vital link between the historic Mill District and the North Loop, encouraging active transportation and offering unparalleled views that draw locals and tourists alike. The stone arch design itself is a beautiful example of late 19th-century engineering, making it a visually striking feature of the city's landscape.
Experiencing the Stone Arch Bridge: Activities and Vistas
Beyond the views, the bridge is a popular destination for recreation. It's an ideal spot for a leisurely walk, a brisk run, or a bike ride. Many visitors bring their dogs, making it a great place for a pet-friendly outing. During the summer, events like the Stone Arch Bridge Festival transform the area into a vibrant celebration of art, music, and local food, adding another layer of excitement to a visit.
For those looking for a sweet treat, a well-loved ice cream truck is often found at Mill Ruins Park on the west side of the bridge, providing a perfect accompaniment to a stroll. The bridge's connection to various parks and trails also makes it a starting point for exploring more of Minneapolis's riverfront.
Social
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit