Monroe Street Bridge, Spokane
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Monroe Street Bridge

4.5
·132 reviews·Spokane, United States

Spokane's iconic Monroe Street Bridge, a historic architectural marvel offering stunning river views and a symbol of the city.

Highlights

Highlights

Must-see attractions

Social content

Social

From TikTok & Reddit

Best Time

Sunrise & Sunset

Golden hour magic

CrowdLow
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Monroe Street Bridge, Spokane

Monroe Street Bridge

Best Time

Sunrise & Sunset

Golden hour magic

CrowdLow
Highlights

Highlights

Must-see attractions

Spokane's iconic Monroe Street Bridge, a historic architectural marvel offering stunning river views and a symbol of the city.

4.5
(132 reviews)

"Beautiful bridge with gorgeous views of the lower falls. Absolutely gorgeous."

Vertical photo
TIP

🌅 Catch the Golden Hour

Visit at sunrise or sunset for the most stunning photos and a peaceful experience.

🚶‍♀️ Explore Nearby Parks

Combine your bridge visit with a walk through Riverfront Park and Huntington Park for waterfall views.

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Highlights

Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences

Iconic Architecture

Iconic Architecture

Spokane River

A historic and visually striking bridge, integral to Spokane's identity and featured in its city seal.

Sunrise and Sunset Views

Sunrise and Sunset Views

Spokane River

Breathtaking panoramic views of the Spokane River and surrounding cityscape, especially magical at dawn and dusk.

Connection to Parks and Waterfalls

Connection to Parks and Waterfalls

Riverfront Park

Offers access to beautiful park areas and the mesmerizing lower falls of the Spokane River.

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Planning Your Visit

Timing Your Visit for the Best Views

The Monroe Street Bridge offers stunning vistas, especially during sunrise and sunset. Consider visiting early morning or late evening to avoid crowds and capture the most picturesque light. The bridge's iconic shape is even featured in Spokane's city seal, highlighting its importance to the area.

Navigating the Bridge and Surrounding Areas

While the bridge itself is a landmark, its surroundings are also worth exploring. Be aware that some reviews mention occasional cleanliness issues, though efforts are made to keep it clear. The bridge connects to parks and offers access to the Spokane River, making it a great starting point for exploring the city.

Best Times

When
Sunrise & Sunset
Why
Golden hour magic
Crowd
Low
When
Weekday Mornings
Why
Peaceful strolls
Crowd
Low

Insider Tips

from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit

Monroe Street Bridge, Spokane, WA #bridges #bridgetok #civil #engineering
@armchairengineer
8.5K likes • 98.9K views

🌅 Catch the Golden Hour

Visit at sunrise or sunset for the most stunning photos and a peaceful experience. Instagram

🚶‍♀️ Explore Nearby Parks

Combine your bridge visit with a walk through Riverfront Park and Huntington Park for waterfall views. Reddit

#korupharmacy #muralsofspokane #muralproject #mural #monroestreet #spokane #fyp #spokanewa #muralslightmysoul #dowhatmakesyouhappy
@mariscalbeachbarbie
1.4K likes • 7.4K views
Spokane Storytime pt. 12 The Monroe Street Bridge Monroe Street Bridge, named after James Monroe, the 5th president, was first built in 1889 from wood, but it burned down in less than a year. A steel bridge followed but lasted only 20 years due to its unappealing look and high maintenance. In 1909, the Howard St. Bridge opened, allowing for the reconstruction of the Monroe Bridge. By 1911, the...
miles_pnw
2.3K likes • 32.9K views

📸 Perfect for Photos

The bridge's architecture and river views make it a prime spot for photography. Instagram

🏙️ City Landmark

It's a key part of Spokane's identity, even appearing on the city's seal! TikTok

Sunset from the Monroe Street Bridge. 🙌 Definitely recommend. 👍 . . . . . #kendallyards #downtownspokane #spokaneliving #spokanewa #spokaneriver #inlandnorthwest
kendall_yards
7 likes • 363 views

Tips

from all over the internet

🌅 Catch the Golden Hour

Visit at sunrise or sunset for the most stunning photos and a peaceful experience. Instagram

🚶‍♀️ Explore Nearby Parks

Combine your bridge visit with a walk through Riverfront Park and Huntington Park for waterfall views. Reddit

📸 Perfect for Photos

The bridge's architecture and river views make it a prime spot for photography. Instagram

🏙️ City Landmark

It's a key part of Spokane's identity, even appearing on the city's seal! TikTok

What Travellers Say

4.5
(132 reviews)

Reviews Summary

Visitors consistently praise the Monroe Street Bridge for its beautiful architecture and stunning views of the Spokane River and its falls, especially during sunrise and sunset. While some note occasional cleanliness concerns, the overall experience is highly regarded as a picturesque and iconic Spokane landmark.

"September 2022 went to Huntington Park and Riverfront Park in Spokane Washington #waterfall #spokane #washington #huntington #riverfront #travel #sunset"

Dani MCDonald

"Beautiful bridge with gorgeous views of the lower falls. Enjoyed a nice morning walk with a friend and watched the sunrise. It was absolutely gorgeous. It was a little chilly the morning we went but still worth the walk across, and the views."

Janet Stiles

"My wife and I are on vacation, and this was listed as one of the things to do in Spokane. The Monroe Bridge is a peace of art. It’s beautiful! Love the park area and waterfalls!"

S B

What People Like

Beautiful architecture
Gorgeous river views
Iconic city landmark

What People Dislike

Occasional cleanliness issues

Frequently Asked Questions

🚇 🗺️ Getting There

The Monroe Street Bridge is located in downtown Spokane, making it easily accessible. If you're staying downtown, it's a pleasant walk. Public transportation options are also available, and parking can be found in nearby garages or street parking, though it may be limited. Reddit

Yes, there are parking garages and street parking options in the downtown area near the bridge. However, availability can vary, especially during peak times. Consider using a parking app to find available spots. Reddit

Absolutely! If you're in downtown Spokane, walking to the Monroe Street Bridge is a great way to experience the city. It's a central landmark and easily reachable on foot. Reddit

Spokane's public transit system serves the downtown area. Check with Spokane Transit Authority for routes that stop near the bridge or Riverfront Park. Reddit

The bridge itself is generally accessible for wheelchairs, offering a smooth surface for passage. The surrounding parks also aim for accessibility. Reddit

🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry

No, visiting and walking across the Monroe Street Bridge is free of charge. It's a public landmark and accessible to everyone. Reddit

The bridge is a public thoroughfare and is accessible 24/7. However, for the best experience and views, visiting during daylight hours or sunset is recommended. Instagram

There are no fees to access or walk across the Monroe Street Bridge itself. Any costs would be related to parking or visiting attractions within the nearby parks. Reddit

Yes, the bridge is open 24/7. However, be mindful of lighting conditions and personal safety if visiting late at night. Instagram

Riverfront Park generally has no entrance fee, allowing free access to its grounds and attractions, including the areas around the Monroe Street Bridge. Reddit

📸 📸 Photography

Great photo opportunities exist from Riverfront Park, Huntington Park, and even from the bridge itself looking out at the Spokane River and city skyline. Sunrise and sunset offer particularly stunning light. Instagram+1

Drone usage is subject to local regulations and park rules. It's best to check with the City of Spokane Parks and Recreation department for current drone policies before flying. Instagram

The 'golden hours' around sunrise and sunset provide the most dramatic and beautiful lighting for photographs of the bridge and river. Instagram

Generally, personal photography is allowed. However, commercial photography or filming may require permits. Always be respectful of others and private property. Instagram

You can capture wide-angle shots of the Spokane River, the city skyline, and the bridge's own impressive architecture. Looking down, you'll see the lower falls. Instagram

🎫 🏞️ Onsite Experience

You can enjoy scenic walks, admire the Spokane River and its waterfalls in Riverfront Park, and explore the downtown area. The bridge itself is a point of interest. Reddit

While efforts are made to keep the area clear, some reviews mention occasional issues with campers. It's always wise to be aware of your surroundings, especially at night. Reddit

The views are gorgeous, offering panoramic sights of the Spokane River, the lower falls, and the surrounding cityscape. It's a popular spot for enjoying the natural beauty within the city. InstagramReddit

Yes, you can walk across the entire length of the Monroe Street Bridge, enjoying the views and the engineering marvel. TikTok

While not explicitly mentioned in all sources, the bridge's historical significance is noted, and its architecture is a key feature. TikTokInstagram

For Different Travelers

Tailored advice for your travel style

👨‍👩‍👧 Families with Kids

Families visiting the Monroe Street Bridge will find it a pleasant and accessible outing. The bridge itself is easy to walk across, and the adjacent Riverfront Park offers open spaces for children to explore. The views of the Spokane River and its falls can be captivating for younger visitors. Reddit

Consider making a day of it by combining your visit with exploring other attractions within Riverfront Park. Pack snacks and drinks, as amenities might be spread out. The bridge's historical significance can also be a gentle introduction to local history for curious kids. Reddit

📸 Photography Enthusiasts

For photographers, the Monroe Street Bridge is a dream location. The bridge's striking architecture provides a strong foreground element, while the Spokane River and the city skyline offer dynamic backdrops. The best light for capturing stunning images is during the 'golden hours' of sunrise and sunset. Instagram+1

Experiment with different angles from the riverbanks or from within Riverfront Park. Wide-angle lenses are great for capturing the scale of the bridge and its surroundings, while telephoto lenses can isolate architectural details. Be prepared for varying light conditions and potential crowds during peak times. Instagram

🚶‍♀️ Walkers and Explorers

The Monroe Street Bridge is perfect for those who enjoy a scenic walk. You can stroll across its entire length, taking in the panoramic views of the Spokane River and the city. The bridge connects to walking paths in Riverfront Park, allowing for extended exploration of the riverfront area. InstagramReddit

Combine your walk with a visit to the nearby parks to enjoy the waterfalls and green spaces. It's an ideal activity for a leisurely morning or a refreshing evening stroll, offering a great way to get a feel for Spokane's urban and natural landscape. Reddit

Deep Dives

In-depth insights and expert knowledge

The Engineering Marvel of the Monroe Street Bridge

The Monroe Street Bridge, first built in its current form in 1911, is a significant piece of civil engineering. Its design has remained largely unchanged for over a century, a testament to its robust construction. The bridge's distinctive shape is so iconic that it's incorporated into Spokane's official city seal and logo, underscoring its importance to the city's identity. TikTokInstagram

This historic structure spans the Spokane River, offering not just a vital transportation link but also a prominent viewpoint. Its longevity and enduring presence make it a beloved landmark for both residents and visitors. The bridge's design is a classic example of early 20th-century bridge construction, showcasing both functionality and aesthetic appeal. TikTok

While the original wooden bridge from 1889 burned down, and a subsequent steel bridge had a shorter lifespan, the 1911 iteration has stood the test of time. This resilience is a key part of its story and its appeal as a historical site. Instagram

Experiencing the Spokane Riverfront

The Monroe Street Bridge serves as a gateway to the beautiful Spokane Riverfront. Adjacent to the bridge are Riverfront Park and Huntington Park, offering visitors a chance to connect with the natural beauty of the area. These parks provide excellent vantage points for viewing the lower falls of the Spokane River, a truly captivating sight. Reddit

Visitors often describe enjoying peaceful morning walks across the bridge, taking in the sunrise and the serene atmosphere. The combination of the impressive bridge architecture and the natural splendor of the river creates a memorable experience. It's a place where urban infrastructure meets natural beauty, offering a unique perspective on Spokane. InstagramReddit

Beyond the immediate views from the bridge, the surrounding parks offer walking paths and recreational opportunities. This makes the Monroe Street Bridge not just a destination in itself, but a starting point for exploring the wider riverfront area and its attractions. Reddit

Monroe Street Bridge in Local Culture

The Monroe Street Bridge is more than just a crossing; it's a symbol deeply embedded in Spokane's local culture. Its iconic silhouette is so recognizable that it has been adopted as part of the city's official seal and logo, a clear indicator of its significance to the community. TikTokInstagram

This visual representation highlights how the bridge has become a point of pride and identity for Spokane. It's a landmark that locals and visitors alike associate with the city's character and history. The bridge's presence in local imagery reinforces its status as a beloved and enduring feature of the Spokane landscape. TikTokInstagram

Furthermore, the bridge has been used as a backdrop for community events and artistic installations, further cementing its place in the local consciousness. Its enduring appeal is a testament to its architectural merit and its role in the city's narrative. Instagram

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