DuSable Bridge: Chicago's River Gateway
Experience Chicago's history and architectural innovation at the iconic DuSable Bridge, connecting the Loop and the Magnificent Mile.
The DuSable Bridge is more than just a functional structure; it's a symbol of Chicago's history and innovation. Opened in 1920 as part of Daniel Burnham's Plan of Chicago, the bridge was designed to ease traffic congestion and enhance the city's riverfront. Its double-deck design, with roadways on both levels, was considered pioneering for its time. The bridge's four bridgehouses are adorned with bas-relief sculptures that depict significant moments in Chicago's past. The north bridgehouses feature sculptures of French explorers Marquette and Joliet, and early settlers Kinzie and DuSable. The south bridgehouses depict the Fort Dearborn Massacre of 1812 and the rebuilding of the city after the Great Chicago Fire of 1871. Visitors can experience the DuSable Bridge in various ways. Walking across the bridge offers stunning views of the Chicago River and the city skyline. The McCormick Bridgehouse & Chicago River Museum, located in the southwest bridgehouse, allows visitors to learn about the bridge's history and see its operating machinery. River cruises also provide a unique perspective of the bridge and the surrounding architecture. The DuSable Bridge is not only a visual spectacle but also a testament to Chicago's engineering ingenuity. Its trunnion bascule design, with massive counterweights that allow the bridge to be raised for boat traffic, is a marvel of engineering. The bridge is operated about fifty times each year for flotillas of migrating sailboats.
Local tips
- Visit the McCormick Bridgehouse & Chicago River Museum in the southwest bridgehouse to learn about the bridge's history and see its inner workings.
- Take a walk across the bridge to enjoy panoramic views of the Chicago River and the city skyline.
- Consider a Chicago River architecture cruise for a unique perspective of the DuSable Bridge and other iconic buildings.
- Look for the bas-relief sculptures on the bridgehouses, which depict important events and figures in Chicago's history.
- Check out the brass markers south of the bridge across East Wacker Drive, which mark the site of Fort Dearborn.
A brief summary to DuSable Bridge
- 333 Michigan Ave, Chicago, Magnificent Mile, Illinois, 60601, US
Getting There
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Walking
From the Magnificent Mile, walk south on Michigan Avenue towards the Chicago River. The DuSable Bridge will be directly ahead, spanning the river. From the Loop, walk north on Michigan Avenue. The bridge connects to the Magnificent Mile. Be aware of pedestrian traffic on the sidewalks. No cost for walking.
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Public Transport
Several bus lines (135, 136, 146, 147, 148) stop near the DuSable Bridge. Check the CTA website or app for real-time schedules and fare information. The closest 'L' stations are State/Lake (Brown, Green, Orange, Pink, Purple Lines) and Lake (Red Line). From either station, walk east on Wacker Drive to Michigan Avenue and the bridge. A single CTA bus or 'L' fare is $2.50.
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Taxi/Ride-Share
Taxis and ride-sharing services like Uber and Lyft are readily available throughout Chicago. Request a ride to 333 Michigan Avenue, Chicago, IL 60601, which is the address of the DuSable Bridge. Be prepared for potential traffic delays, especially during peak hours. A short taxi or ride-share trip in the downtown area typically costs $5-$15.
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Parking
Several parking garages are located near the DuSable Bridge. Use apps like SpotHero or ParkChirp to find and reserve parking spots in advance. Parking rates vary, but expect to pay $15-$40 for a few hours of parking. Some nearby parking options include Millennium Park Plaza (151 N Michigan Ave) and Michigan Plaza (225 N Michigan Ave).
