Old Chain of Rocks Bridge
A mile-long historic Route 66 bridge over the Mississippi, famous for its unique 30-degree turn, now a pedestrian and bike path.
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Pleasant temps for walking
Old Chain of Rocks Bridge
Best Time
Pleasant temps for walking
Highlights
Must-see attractions
A mile-long historic Route 66 bridge over the Mississippi, famous for its unique 30-degree turn, now a pedestrian and bike path.
"It's a great place to walk with your family and lots of spots for photos."
🚶♀️ Walk or Bike the Span
Perfect for a leisurely stroll or bike ride. It's a mile each way, so plan accordingly!
📸 Capture the Views
Bring your camera! The bridge and river offer fantastic photo ops, especially during sunrise/sunset.
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
The Famous 30-Degree Turn
Mid-bridge
Experience the unique, sharp bend in the bridge, a signature feature offering a quirky perspective.
Mississippi River Vistas
Entire length of the bridge
Enjoy panoramic views of the mighty Mississippi River and the St. Louis skyline.
Historic Route 66 Landmark
Bridge and surrounding park
Walk in the footsteps of history on this iconic stretch of the original Route 66.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Embrace the Bend: A Unique Walk
Timing is Key for Comfort
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
🚶♀️ Walk or Bike the Span
Perfect for a leisurely stroll or bike ride. It's a mile each way, so plan accordingly!
📸 Capture the Views
Bring your camera! The bridge and river offer fantastic photo ops, especially during sunrise/sunset.
🚗 Parking is Easy
Ample parking is available on both the Missouri and Illinois sides.
☀️ Beat the Heat
If visiting in summer, go early or late to avoid the midday sun.
Tips
from all over the internet
🚶♀️ Walk or Bike the Span
Perfect for a leisurely stroll or bike ride. It's a mile each way, so plan accordingly!
📸 Capture the Views
Bring your camera! The bridge and river offer fantastic photo ops, especially during sunrise/sunset.
🚗 Parking is Easy
Ample parking is available on both the Missouri and Illinois sides.
☀️ Beat the Heat
If visiting in summer, go early or late to avoid the midday sun.
🧺 Picnic Potential
The Missouri side has a nice park area with picnic tables for a relaxing break.
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Visitors rave about the Old Chain of Rocks Bridge for its unique charm, historical significance as a Route 66 landmark, and beautiful Mississippi River views. It's praised as a safe and accessible spot for walking, biking, and photography, with the Missouri side's park improvements adding to the appeal. Some mention the presence of anti-suicide messaging, which might be sensitive for some.
"The Old Chain of Rocks Bridge in Saint Louis is an architectural and historical gem that welcomes visitors with its unique charm. Once a vital part of the famous Old Route 66—the very route that saw legends like Elvis Presley cruise across its span—this bridge now serves as a cherished pedestrian pathway. Its wide expanse not only provides a safe and enjoyable walk but also offers an array of captivating photo opportunities along its length. Whether you're capturing the nostalgic urban landscape or the serene views of the surrounding river, the scenery here is perfect for photography enthusiasts. Additionally, the site features a thoughtfully designed covered picnic area, making it an ideal spot for spending a leisurely day outdoors, enjoying a meal in a setting rich with history and natural beauty."
Jay C
"Awesome views of the the river and the intake towers. Came down for an even that allowed us to drive over the bridge. It's a great place to walk with your family and lots of spots for photos. The Missouri side has been redone and it's very nice."
Derek “YETI” Wilke
"Stopped here on a whim. Was on a road trip and wanted to see more of Route 66. We only went partway across the bridge due to the heat but if it had been cooler we would have gone across and back. Beautiful views of the Mississippi and downtown St Louis."
Kaia Nygord
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
The bridge is accessible from both the Missouri and Illinois sides. On the Missouri side, you can access it via the Mississippi Greenway Trail, which is being extended to the Arch.
Yes, there is parking available right before the bridge entrance on both the Missouri and Illinois sides.
No, the bridge is closed to motor vehicles and is only open to pedestrians and bicycles.
You can walk or bike across the bridge. The Missouri side offers a newly redone park area and trailhead for the Mississippi Greenway Trail.
The bridge is a prominent landmark. Follow signs for the Chain of Rocks Park on either side of the Mississippi River.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
No, entry to the Old Chain of Rocks Bridge and its surrounding park areas is free for pedestrians and cyclists.
The bridge is generally open from dawn to dusk. It's recommended to check local park hours for specific times, especially for events.
There is no admission fee to walk or bike across the Old Chain of Rocks Bridge.
Dogs are generally allowed on the bridge and in the park areas, but they must be kept on a leash. Always check local regulations.
The bridge is open to pedestrians and bicycles. Motor vehicles are not permitted.
🎫 🧭 Onsite Experience
You can walk or bike the mile-long bridge, enjoy scenic views of the Mississippi River, take photos, and explore the park areas. Special events like 'Bridge Boogie' also occur.
Yes, the bridge is wide and flat, making it suitable for strollers and wheelchairs.
Expect expansive views of the Mississippi River, the St. Louis skyline, and the surrounding natural landscape.
Restroom facilities are typically available in the park areas on both the Missouri and Illinois sides.
The bridge is closed to traffic, making it very safe for pedestrians and cyclists. However, some visitors note signs discouraging jumping.
📸 📸 Photography
The unique bend in the bridge, the panoramic river views, and the historic Route 66 markers offer excellent photo opportunities.
Sunrise and sunset provide beautiful lighting for capturing the bridge and river. Midday can be harsh due to direct sunlight.
Drone usage is subject to federal and local regulations. It's best to check with the park authorities before flying a drone.
Yes, the bridge's history as a Route 66 landmark is a significant feature for historical photography.
A wide-angle lens is great for capturing the expanse of the bridge and river. A telephoto lens can be useful for distant city views.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
It's a great way to introduce children to local history and enjoy the outdoors together. 🚶♀️ Walkers & Cyclists
It's an ideal spot for daily exercise or a leisurely recreational outing. 📸 Photographers & History Buffs
+1 The river vistas and city skyline offer diverse photographic subjects. History buffs will appreciate walking on a path once traveled by countless adventurers on America's Main Street. Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
A Bridge with a Story: History and Route 66
Today, the bridge is a testament to successful historic preservation. It has been rehabilitated and is now a beloved pedestrian and bicycle path, offering a unique way to experience the Mississippi River. The famous 30-degree turn midway across the bridge is a distinctive feature that sets it apart from other river crossings.
Walking or biking across this historic structure allows visitors to connect with the past and appreciate the engineering feat that it represents. Exploring the Mississippi Greenway Trail
This trail offers a fantastic way to explore the riverfront, connecting to other parks and attractions in the St. Louis area. It's an excellent option for those looking for a longer outdoor adventure beyond just crossing the bridge.Cyclists and walkers alike can enjoy the relatively flat terrain and the ever-changing views of the river and the urban landscape. The trail is designed for recreation and offers a peaceful escape from the city bustle.
Whether you're planning a short walk or a longer bike ride, the Mississippi Greenway Trail, with the Old Chain of Rocks Bridge as a centerpiece, provides a beautiful and accessible outdoor experience. Photography Opportunities
The expansive views of the Mississippi River are stunning, especially during the golden hours of sunrise and sunset when the light casts a warm glow on the water and the city skyline. Beyond the natural beauty, the bridge itself is an architectural subject. Its historic nature, once a vital part of Route 66, adds a layer of nostalgia that can be captured in photographs.
Social
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit