McKinley Bridge

The McKinley Bridge itself offers a relatively easy and flat crossing. It features a dedicated pedestrian and bicycle lane, making it accessible for most fitness levels. The main challenge might be the length of the bridge, which is approximately 6,313 feet (1,924 meters) long, but it's generally considered a pleasant and straightforward experience.

From the McKinley Bridge, visitors can enjoy unique and intimate views of the Mississippi River. You can often spot various U.S. Army Corps of Engineers river training structures, such as weirs, dykes, and levees. The bridge also offers panoramic views of the St. Louis skyline to the south and the Illinois riverfront.

Yes, parking is available on both sides. On the Missouri side, you can find parking near the intersection of Salisbury and North 9th Street in St. Louis. On the Illinois side, the McKinley Bridge Roadside Park provides parking for visitors.

While there isn't a MetroLink station directly adjacent to the bridge, several MetroBus routes serve the general area in St. Louis. Visitors should check the latest Metro Transit schedules and routes for the most convenient bus stops near Salisbury and North 9th Street to access the bridge.

No, the McKinley Bridge is a free crossing, and no permits are required to walk or cycle across it. The dedicated pedestrian and bicycle lane is open to the public without any fees.

Yes, the McKinley Bridge is considered family-friendly, offering a safe and enjoyable environment for walks and bike rides with children. It is also generally dog-friendly, though dogs should be kept on a leash, and owners are expected to clean up after their pets. The dedicated pedestrian/bike lane provides ample space.

While pleasant weather conditions generally enhance the experience, spring and fall often offer the most comfortable temperatures for walking or cycling. Summers can be hot and humid, while winters can be cold, though the bridge remains accessible year-round. Visiting during sunrise or sunset can also offer particularly scenic views.

The McKinley Bridge is approximately 6,313 feet (1,924 meters) long. On foot, a leisurely stroll across the bridge and back might take 30-45 minutes, depending on your pace and how often you stop to enjoy the views. By bike, it would take significantly less time, perhaps 10-15 minutes for a round trip.

While the immediate vicinity of the bridge on both the St. Louis and Illinois sides is not densely populated with commercial establishments, you can find various cafes, pubs, and restaurants a short drive away in downtown St. Louis or in the nearby communities of Venice, Madison, and Granite City, Illinois.

The McKinley Bridge is historically significant for several reasons. Opened in 1910, it was an early example of a combined interurban railway and vehicular bridge. Notably, it carried a segment of the historic U.S. Route 66 across the Mississippi River from 1926 to 1928, and optionally until 1937. It's also an important surviving work of acclaimed engineer Ralph Modjeski and has undergone significant rehabilitation to preserve its legacy.

The dedicated pedestrian and bicycle lane on the McKinley Bridge is generally flat and paved, making it accessible for wheelchairs. There are no stairs or significant obstacles on the bridge itself. Visitors should consider the accessibility of parking areas and approach routes on both sides when planning their visit.