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Discover the Iconic Dearborn Street Bridge in Chicago

Explore Chicago's Dearborn Street Bridge, a historic architectural landmark offering stunning skyline views and a vital connection across the Chicago River.

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The Dearborn Street Bridge, a remarkable feat of engineering, offers tourists a stunning view of Chicago's vibrant skyline and the bustling river below. This historic bridge not only serves as a vital connector between the city's neighborhoods but also stands as a testament to Chicago's architectural legacy. A visit here is a must for anyone looking to immerse themselves in the city's rich history and modern charm.

A brief summary to Dearborn Street Bridge

  • Monday 12 am-12 am
  • Tuesday 12 am-12 am
  • Wednesday 12 am-12 am
  • Thursday 12 am-12 am
  • Friday 12 am-12 am
  • Saturday 12 am-12 am
  • Sunday 12 am-12 am

Local tips

  • Visit early in the morning or late afternoon for the best lighting for photography.
  • Check the bridge's operation schedule if you want to see it lift for boats.
  • Combine your visit with a leisurely walk along the nearby Riverwalk.
  • Bring a camera to capture the stunning views of the skyline and river.
  • Explore the nearby dining options to enjoy a meal with a view after your visit.
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Getting There

  • Public Transportation

    If you are in Berwyn, start by heading to the Berwyn Metra station located at 6820 Windsor Ave. Take the BNSF Railway Line train towards Chicago Union Station. The journey takes about 30 minutes. Once you arrive at the Chicago Union Station, exit the station and head towards the Canal Street exit. Walk north along Canal Street for about 0.3 miles until you reach Wacker Drive. Turn left onto Wacker Drive and walk for another 0.4 miles. The Dearborn Street Bridge will be ahead on your right.

  • Bus

    From any point in Berwyn, find the nearest Pace bus stop. You can take Pace Route 331 towards the Cicero Pink Line station. Once you reach the Cicero Pink Line station, board the Pink Line train towards 18th. Ride it until you reach the Damen station. Transfer to the Blue Line train heading towards O'Hare. Get off at the Washington station. From there, walk east to the Dearborn Street Bridge, which is about a 10-minute walk.

  • Biking

    If you prefer to bike, you can rent a Divvy bike from one of the stations in Berwyn. Start by heading north on Riverside Drive, which will turn into Harlem Avenue. Continue north until you reach the 16th Street intersection. Turn right and follow 16th Street until you reach the Cicero Avenue intersection. Turn left on Cicero Avenue and bike towards the city. Once you reach the city, continue on Cicero Avenue until you can turn right onto Wacker Drive. The Dearborn Street Bridge will be a short distance ahead on your left.

  • Walking

    If you're close to the Berwyn Metra station, you can start walking towards the train station and take the BNSF Railway line to downtown Chicago. Once you arrive at Union Station, walk towards Canal Street and then north to Wacker Drive. This is about a 15-minute walk. Continue along Wacker Drive, and the Dearborn Street Bridge will be on your right after a short walk.

Unlock the Best of Dearborn Street Bridge

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Discover more about Dearborn Street Bridge

The Dearborn Street Bridge, spanning the picturesque Chicago River, is an architectural marvel that encapsulates the spirit of the Windy City. Completed in 1920, this bascule bridge is not only a crucial thoroughfare for both vehicles and pedestrians but also a celebrated landmark that showcases Chicago's storied past and innovative future. As you stroll across the bridge, you'll be treated to breathtaking views of the surrounding skyline, featuring iconic structures like the Willis Tower and the Tribune Tower. The bridge itself, with its intricate design and operational mechanism, is a point of interest for architecture enthusiasts and casual tourists alike. Located in the bustling Near North Side neighborhood, the Dearborn Street Bridge serves as a hub of activity, linking the vibrant downtown area with the cultural richness of the surrounding districts. The area is alive with energy, offering a plethora of dining, shopping, and entertainment options. The nearby Riverwalk provides the perfect complement to your visit, allowing you to explore more of the Chicago River's beauty while enjoying scenic walks along the water's edge. Whether you are visiting during the day when the sun glistens off the river or at night when the city lights reflect on the water, the experience is nothing short of magical. For photographers, the bridge offers a stunning vantage point to capture the dynamic interplay of urban life and nature. With its historical significance and modern functionality, the Dearborn Street Bridge is a must-see attraction that embodies the essence of Chicago's architectural heritage. Make sure to take a moment to appreciate not just the view, but also the engineering ingenuity that makes this structure a vital part of the city's infrastructure.

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