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John Seigenthaler Pedestrian Bridge: Nashville's Iconic Landmark

Walk across Nashville's iconic John Seigenthaler Pedestrian Bridge for stunning skyline views and a taste of history on the Cumberland River.

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The John Seigenthaler Pedestrian Bridge, formerly the Shelby Street Bridge, is a Nashville landmark offering stunning views of the city skyline and the Cumberland River. Originally built in 1909, it's now a pedestrian-only bridge and one of the longest in the world.

A brief summary to The John Seigenthaler Pedestrian Bridge

  • Nashville, Tennessee, US

Local tips

  • Visit early morning or late afternoon for cooler temperatures and optimal lighting for photography.
  • Wear comfortable shoes, as the bridge is approximately half a mile long.
  • Bring water, especially during warmer months, to stay hydrated.
  • Take advantage of the scenic overlooks to learn about the history of the Cumberland River.
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Getting There

  • Walking

    From downtown Nashville, head east towards the Cumberland River. Access the bridge from 3rd Avenue South near the Schermerhorn Symphony Center. The bridge is directly accessible from Riverfront Park.

  • Public Transport

    Several bus routes serve the areas near the bridge. Disembark at stops along 5th Avenue North or Broadway and walk towards the riverfront. From the Franklin Transit Center, take Route 3 bus towards Nashville. After about 30 minutes, get off at the stop at 1st Avenue South and Broadway. The entrance to the bridge will be on your left.

  • Parking

    There is no on-site parking at the John Seigenthaler Pedestrian Bridge. Several parking lots and garages are available near the bridge. Options include Commerce B Parking, Bridge Lot, and garages on 2nd and 3rd Avenue South. Parking rates typically range from $10-$30 for 2 hours. Street parking is also available for around $3 for 2 hours. Free parking is available near Cumberland Park on the east side of the bridge.

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Discover more about The John Seigenthaler Pedestrian Bridge

Spanning the Cumberland River, the John Seigenthaler Pedestrian Bridge is more than just a crossing; it's a symbol of Nashville. Originally known as the Shelby Street Bridge, it was constructed in 1909 to connect downtown Nashville with East Nashville. Designed by Howard M. Jones, it was the first in North America to use concrete arched trusses. In 1998, the bridge was added to the National Register of Historic Places due to its unique design. After being closed to vehicular traffic, it was transformed into a pedestrian bridge, reopening in 2003. In 2014, it was renamed to honor John Seigenthaler, a journalist and civil rights advocate who once saved a man from jumping off the bridge. The bridge is 3,150 feet (960 m) long, offering ample space for walking, jogging, and cycling. It features a dedicated bicycle lane and scenic overlooks with artistic renderings of the Cumberland River's history. The bridge provides access to Riverfront Park on the west and Cumberland Park on the east. It's also near attractions like the Country Music Hall of Fame and the Schermerhorn Symphony Center. The bridge is open 24/7 and offers spectacular views, especially at sunset.

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