The Stone Arch Bridge from the Guthrie.
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Stone Arch Bridge

4.8
·3k reviews·Minneapolis, United States

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

Highlights

Highlights

Must-see attractions

Social content

Social

From TikTok & Reddit

Best Time

Weekday mornings

Fewer crowds, golden hour light

CrowdLow
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The Stone Arch Bridge from the Guthrie.

Stone Arch Bridge

Best Time

Weekday mornings

Fewer crowds, golden hour light

CrowdLow
Highlights

Highlights

Must-see attractions

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

4.8
(3k reviews)

"Iconic stone arch bridge with gorgeous views of St. Anthony Falls and downtown Minneapolis!"

Vertical photo
TIP

🚶‍♀️ 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:

Third hero image

Highlights

Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences

St. Anthony Falls Views

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

Panoramic Cityscape

Center of the bridge

Enjoy breathtaking, sweeping views of the Minneapolis skyline and the Mississippi River.

Historic Railroad Bridge

Historic Railroad Bridge

Entire length of the bridge

Walk or bike across this beautifully restored former railroad bridge, soaking in its history.

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Planning Your Visit

Timing Your Visit for the Best Experience

The Stone Arch Bridge has seen significant restoration, with a major project concluding in July 2025.Instagram While it's now fully accessible, check for any ongoing maintenance or special events. Consider visiting during weekdays to avoid larger crowds, especially if you're seeking a more peaceful stroll or photo opportunity.Instagram

Navigating Access and Parking

Parking can be a breeze, with many visitors finding it easy to secure a spot.Reddit The bridge connects to downtown Minneapolis and Mill Ruins Park, offering multiple access points. Be aware that parts of the bridge have undergone closures for repairs in the past,Instagram so confirm current accessibility before your visit.

Best Times

When
Weekday mornings
Why
Fewer crowds, golden hour light
Crowd
Low
When
Summer evenings
Why
Pleasant temperatures, city lights
Crowd
Medium
When
During festivals
Why
Live music, art, food
Crowd
High

Insider Tips

from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit

Important dates to keep in mind this month – Pier 17 Pumpkin Arch📍is back September 27th! Are you going? (Clips are from last year) #nyctop3 #fallinnyc #funinnyc
@pictureperfectluis
25.6K likes • 275.6K views

🚶‍♀️ Walk or Bike Across

Perfect for a leisurely stroll, run, or bike ride with stunning views.Instagram :athletic_shoe:

🍦 Ice Cream Stop

Grab a treat from the ice cream truck at Mill Ruins Park on the west side.Reddit :icecream:

The Stone Arch Bridge in Minneapolis officially reopened on July 21, 2025 after being partially closed for restoration for over a year. The project finished months ahead of schedule, so walkers, runners and bikers can now fully cross the bridge over the Mississippi River. An official ribbon cutting ceremony is scheduled for Aug. 9. #minneapolis #minneapolismn #minneapolisminnesota #meetminneapol...
kristeninmn
1.1K likes • 20.8K views
No matter what time it is, the Stone Arch Bridge never disappoints😍 This is the perfect place for a date, a photoshoot, a walk or even a run🏃🏼‍♂️​ What would you rather do? 🎥: @zanelud #Minneapolis #StoneArchBridge #MinneapolisViews #MinneapolisBucketlist
minneapolis.bucketlist
918 likes • 39.6K views

📸 Capture the Views

The bridge offers incredible photo ops of the falls and skyline.Instagram :camerawithflash:

📅 Check for Events

Look out for events like the Stone Arch Bridge Festival for extra fun.Instagram :calendar:

The Stone Arch Bridge is closing for the next two summers for repairs. It opened in 1994 as a pedestrian bridge, but has a long history before that.
twincitiespbs
3.5K likes • 103K views

Tips

from all over the internet

🚶‍♀️ Walk or Bike Across

Perfect for a leisurely stroll, run, or bike ride with stunning views.Instagram :athletic_shoe:

🍦 Ice Cream Stop

Grab a treat from the ice cream truck at Mill Ruins Park on the west side.Reddit :icecream:

📸 Capture the Views

The bridge offers incredible photo ops of the falls and skyline.Instagram :camerawithflash:

📅 Check for Events

Look out for events like the Stone Arch Bridge Festival for extra fun.Instagram :calendar:

🅿️ Easy Parking

Many visitors report finding parking to be quite convenient.Reddit :car:

What Travellers Say

4.8
(3k reviews)

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

Iconic city views
St. Anthony Falls scenery
Great for walking/biking

What People Dislike

Occasional closures for repairs

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.Reddit

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.Reddit

Absolutely! The Stone Arch Bridge is a popular spot for biking, offering a scenic route over the Mississippi River with great views.Instagram

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.Instagram

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.Instagram

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.Instagram It had previously been closed for two summers for repairs.Instagram

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,Instagram 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.Instagram

Yes, the Stone Arch Bridge is a popular location for professional photoshoots, including engagement, family, and engagement sessions, due to its iconic backdrop.Instagram

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.Instagram

🍽️ 🍽️ 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,Reddit 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.Instagram

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.Instagram

During warmer months and special events like the Stone Arch Bridge Festival,Instagram food trucks are often present, offering a variety of treats and meals.

For Different Travelers

Tailored advice for your travel style

👨‍👩‍👧 Families with Kids

The Stone Arch Bridge is a fantastic destination for families. The wide, flat surface makes it easy for strollers and for kids to walk or bike safely.Instagram The panoramic views of St. Anthony Falls and the city are captivating for all ages. Pack some snacks, and consider stopping by the ice cream truck at Mill Ruins Park for a special treat.Reddit It's a great spot for kids to burn off energy while enjoying a beautiful and historic part of Minneapolis.

📸 Photographers & Instagrammers

For photographers, the Stone Arch Bridge is a dream location. The iconic views of St. Anthony Falls and the Minneapolis skyline offer endless opportunities for stunning shots.Instagram Aim for golden hour for the best light, or visit in the evening to capture the city's vibrant lights. The bridge's architecture itself is also a beautiful subject. Remember to bring a wide-angle lens to capture the expansive vistas.Instagram

🏃‍♀️ Active Visitors & Runners

The Stone Arch Bridge is a prime spot for runners and cyclists. Its smooth, paved surface and relatively flat terrain make it perfect for a workout with a view. You can easily connect to other trails along the Mississippi River for a longer run or bike ride. The bridge offers a refreshing escape from the city streets while still providing a dynamic urban backdrop.Instagram

Deep Dives

In-depth insights and expert knowledge

A Walk Through History: The Stone Arch Bridge

The Stone Arch Bridge is more than just a scenic walkway; it's a vital piece of Minneapolis history. Originally built in 1883 as a railroad bridge for the Great Northern Railway, it was commissioned by James J. Hill, a prominent railroad magnate.Instagram For decades, it served as a crucial artery for freight and passenger trains, connecting the burgeoning city's industries. Its construction was a significant engineering feat for its time, utilizing local stone and skilled labor.

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.Instagram The bridge's restoration, including recent extensive work completed in July 2025,Instagram 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.Instagram

Experiencing the Stone Arch Bridge: Activities and Vistas

The Stone Arch Bridge is a hub of activity, offering something for everyone. Its primary appeal lies in the panoramic views it provides. From its span, visitors can marvel at the majestic St. Anthony Falls, the only major waterfall on the Mississippi River.Instagram The surrounding downtown Minneapolis skyline also presents a stunning backdrop, especially during sunrise and sunset when the light paints the city in warm hues.Instagram

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.Instagram 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,Instagram 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.Reddit The bridge's connection to various parks and trails also makes it a starting point for exploring more of Minneapolis's riverfront.

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