Old Chain of Rocks Bridge: A Historic Route 66 Landmark

Walk or bike across the historic Old Chain of Rocks Bridge, a mile-long Route 66 landmark with stunning Mississippi River views and a unique 30-degree bend.

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Old Chain of Rocks Bridge

The Old Chain of Rocks Bridge, a mile-long structure with a unique 30-degree bend, spans the Mississippi River between St. Louis, Missouri, and Madison, Illinois. Once a vital part of Route 66, it now serves as a pedestrian and bicycle bridge, offering stunning views and a glimpse into the past.

A brief summary to Old Chain of Rocks Bridge

10820 Riverview Dr, St. Louis, Missouri, 63137, US
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Local tips

Bring water, especially on hot days, as there are limited facilities on the bridge.
Check the Great Rivers Greenway website for alerts and information about bridge closures or special events.
Be aware that the Missouri side parking area has been subject to vandalism; consider parking on the Illinois side.
Visit during the winter months for a chance to see bald eagles soaring and diving for fish.

Getting There

Walking

From the Illinois side parking lot (4205-4207 Chain of Rocks Rd, Granite City, IL 62040), the bridge entrance is directly accessible. Follow the path from the lot to the bridge entrance. The walk across the bridge is approximately one mile. Be prepared for a walk of approximately 30-45 minutes each way, not including time spent enjoying the views. There are no fees for accessing the bridge.
Public Transport

While direct public transportation to the bridge is limited, you can take a bus to a nearby location and then walk or bike to the Illinois side entrance. From downtown St. Louis, take the #4 bus towards Riverview and get off at the Riverview Dr @ I-270 Ramp. From there, it is approximately a 6 mile bike ride or walk to the Chain of Rocks Bridge via Riverview Drive. A single ride on the #4 bus is $3 [N/A]. Consider using ride-sharing services from the bus stop to the bridge entrance, with an estimated cost of $15-$25 [N/A].

Discover more about Old Chain of Rocks Bridge

The Old Chain of Rocks Bridge, completed in 1929, stands as a testament to early 20th-century engineering and the allure of the open road. Originally a toll bridge, it became a crucial part of Route 66 in 1936, carrying countless travelers between Illinois and Missouri until its closure to vehicular traffic in 1968. The bridge is named for a 17-mile series of rocky rapids in the Mississippi River that made navigation treacherous. One of the bridge's most distinctive features is its 30-degree bend, engineered to address concerns from riverboat captains about the bridge's piers and water intake towers obstructing the river. This unusual design element, combined with the bridge's impressive length of over a mile, creates a memorable experience for those who cross it. After decades of neglect and even a stint as a filming location for the movie 'Escape from New York,' the bridge was restored and reopened to pedestrians and cyclists in 1999. Today, it forms a key link in regional trail systems, offering breathtaking views of the Mississippi River and the St. Louis skyline. Visitors can also observe the historic water intake towers that once supplied the city with water. The bridge's history is palpable, offering a sense of connection to the past. Interpretive signs along the bridge tell the story of Route 66 and the bridge's significance in American transportation history. The Old Chain of Rocks Bridge provides a unique opportunity to walk or bike across the Mississippi River and experience a tangible piece of Route 66 history.

Iconic landmarks you can’t miss

General Daniel Bissell house

4.3 km

Step back in time at the General Daniel Bissell House, a Federal-style gem with a rich history in St. Louis County.

Lewis and Clark (Camp River Dubois) State Historic Site

7.9 km

Discover the rich history of the Lewis and Clark expedition at the Camp River Dubois State Historic Site in Illinois, where adventure and education meet.

Lewis and Clark (Camp River Dubois) State Historic Site

Bellefontaine Cemetery

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Grand Avenue St Louis,MO Water Tower

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Shelley House

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Wellston Loop Historic Pavillion

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Explore the Wellston Loop Historic Pavilion, a landmark that echoes St. Louis's vibrant transportation history and enduring community spirit.

Lewis Place Historic Gate

13.6 km

A historic landmark in St. Louis, the Lewis Place Historic Gate symbolizes the struggle for civil rights and fair housing in the city.

The Dark Room at The Grandel

14.2 km

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Pulitzer Arts Foundation

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Experience world-class art and architecture at the Pulitzer Arts Foundation, a serene and inspiring space in St. Louis' Grand Center Arts District.

Clamorgan Alley - Historical landmark

14.4 km

Explore Clamorgan Alley in St. Louis: A historic cobblestone street offering unique views and a glimpse into the city's vibrant past in Laclede's Landing.

Holy Corners Historic District

14.4 km

Explore St. Louis's Holy Corners Historic District: A blend of stunning architecture, rich history, and cultural significance in the heart of the Central West End.

Moll's Clock

14.5 km

Discover Moll's Clock in St. Louis: A rescued antique timepiece offering a glimpse into the city's vibrant history near Laclede's Landing.

Great Rivers & Routes Tourism Bureau

14.5 km

Explore the Great Rivers & Routes: Your Gateway to Scenic Beauty and Rich History in Alton, Illinois.

The Security Building

14.7 km

Explore the Security Building in St. Louis: A historic landmark showcasing Classical Revival architecture and a significant role in the city's financial heritage.

Meeting of the Waters Fountain and Sculpture

14.8 km

A St. Louis landmark in Aloe Plaza, the Meeting of the Waters Fountain symbolizes the confluence of the Mississippi and Missouri Rivers with stunning sculptures.

Meeting of the Waters Fountain and Sculpture

Unmissable attractions to see

Welcome To Missouri Sign

1.0 km

Discover the vibrant culture and welcoming spirit of Missouri at the iconic Welcome to Missouri Sign in St. Louis, your gateway to adventure.

Columbia Bottom Conservation Area

5.4 km

Explore the breathtaking landscapes and diverse wildlife at Columbia Bottom Conservation Area, a natural gem near St. Louis, Missouri.

It's Electric - Neon Sign Park

6.9 km

Discover the vibrant glow of It's Electric - Neon Sign Park, a dazzling tribute to vintage Americana in Granite City, Illinois, perfect for photography lovers and nostalgia seekers.

Old Six Mile Museum

7.5 km

Uncover the rich history of Granite City at the Old Six Mile Museum, a captivating tourist attraction showcasing the area's heritage and culture.

Edward "Ted" and Pat Jones-Confluence Point State Park

8.1 km

Explore Edward Ted and Pat Jones-Confluence Point State Park, where the Mississippi and Missouri Rivers meet, offering breathtaking views and abundant outdoor activities.

Lewis & Clark Confluence Tower

8.6 km

Explore the Lewis & Clark Confluence Tower, where history and stunning views of two mighty rivers await every visitor.

Bissell Street Water Tower

10.3 km

Explore the Bissell Street Water Tower, an iconic historical landmark in St. Louis, showcasing the city's architectural heritage and charm.

Taille de Noyer House, Florissant Valley Historical

11.8 km

Discover the charm of Missouri's history at Taille de Noyer House, a beautifully preserved 19th-century landmark in Florissant.

Taille de Noyer House, Florissant Valley Historical

Audubon Center at Riverlands

12.2 km

Explore the Audubon Center at Riverlands, a nature preserve offering stunning birdwatching, scenic trails, and a commitment to wildlife conservation.

Melvin Price Lock And Dam

12.3 km

Explore the Melvin Price Lock and Dam: A stunning blend of nature and engineering on the Mississippi River, perfect for curious travelers.

Griot Museum of Black History

12.3 km

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National Great Rivers Museum

12.5 km

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Welcome To Illinois Sign

12.6 km

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World Wide Technology Raceway

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Missouri Welcome Sign

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Experience culinary excellence at Blood & Sand - where New American cuisine meets exceptional cocktails in St. Louis.

Explore Epiphany Boutique in St. Louis for unique fashion finds and local artisan treasures in a charming atmosphere.

Essential bars & hidden hideouts

Kramdens Bar & Grill

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Perigen Tavern

8.2 km

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Upper Level Restaurant&Lounge

12.5 km

Discover Upper Level Restaurant & Lounge, where St. Louis nightlife meets culinary excellence in a vibrant and inviting setting.

Buzz's Firehouse Bar

13.8 km

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Koke's

14.2 km

Experience the vibrant flavors of Mexico at Koke's, a must-visit Mexican restaurant in East St. Louis offering authentic cuisine in a lively atmosphere.

Dablitz Sports Bar and Grill

14.2 km

Experience the vibrant culinary and entertainment scene at Dablitz Sports Bar and Grill in East St. Louis, where delicious food meets lively atmosphere.

ART Bar

14.2 km

Experience the vibrant atmosphere and unique cocktails at Art Bar, the artistic gem of St. Louis nightlife.

Fast Eddie's Bon Air

14.3 km

Discover the vibrant atmosphere and tasty offerings at Fast Eddie's Bon Air in Alton, Illinois - a true local favorite.

Sophie's Artist Lounge

14.3 km

Discover Sophie’s Artist Lounge in St. Louis – where art meets mixology in a vibrant, eclectic atmosphere.

The Old Bakery Beer Company

14.4 km

Explore the flavors of Alton at The Old Bakery Beer Company, where craft beer meets delicious culinary creations in a welcoming atmosphere.

Curtain Call Lounge

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Experience the charm of Curtain Call Lounge in St. Louis, where classic cocktails meet the vibrant spirit of live theater in an inviting atmosphere.

Iron Rail Pub

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Dressel's Pub

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Bridge Tap House & Wine Bar

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The Crack Fox

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Old Chain of Rocks Bridge: A Historic Route 66 Landmark

A brief summary to Old Chain of Rocks Bridge

Local tips

Getting There

Walking

Public Transport

Unlock the Best of Old Chain of Rocks Bridge

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Book tours with entry

Book tours without entry

Discover more about Old Chain of Rocks Bridge

Iconic landmarks you can’t miss

General Daniel Bissell house

Lewis and Clark (Camp River Dubois) State Historic Site

Bellefontaine Cemetery

Grand Avenue St Louis,MO Water Tower

Shelley House

Wellston Loop Historic Pavillion

Lewis Place Historic Gate

The Dark Room at The Grandel

Pulitzer Arts Foundation

Clamorgan Alley - Historical landmark

Holy Corners Historic District

Moll's Clock

Great Rivers & Routes Tourism Bureau

The Security Building

Meeting of the Waters Fountain and Sculpture

Unmissable attractions to see

Welcome To Missouri Sign

Columbia Bottom Conservation Area

It's Electric - Neon Sign Park

Old Six Mile Museum

Edward "Ted" and Pat Jones-Confluence Point State Park

Lewis & Clark Confluence Tower

Bissell Street Water Tower

Taille de Noyer House, Florissant Valley Historical

Audubon Center at Riverlands

Melvin Price Lock And Dam

Griot Museum of Black History

National Great Rivers Museum

Welcome To Illinois Sign

World Wide Technology Raceway

Missouri Welcome Sign

Essential places to dine

Crown Candy Kitchen

Al's Restaurant

Bowood by Niche

Commonwealth

Gary's Fine Dining

Bulrush StL Restaurant

Stage Left Grille

River Side Grille

Lucha Restaurant Oaxaca Style Mexican cuisine

The Best Steak House

Small Batch Whiskey & Fare

The Fountain on Locust

FIELDHOUSE Pub and Grill

The Old Spaghetti Factory

Blood & Sand

Markets, malls and hidden boutiques

Stephanie's Spiritual Shop

Cherished Moments by Yours Truly

The Almost Famous Gift Boutique

Magic's Cannabus Adventure PotCast

Diversity Gallery

KERB Side Excellence LLC

Treasured Gifts-N-More

Holliday

Beloved Selfie

La Femme Rebelle Clothing

Garment District®

Y.B. Unique Creations

LUXE Department Store

Golden Gems

Epiphany Boutique

Essential bars & hidden hideouts

Kramdens Bar & Grill

Perigen Tavern

Upper Level Restaurant&Lounge

Buzz's Firehouse Bar