As the Land of 10,000 Lakes, many people overlook just how much other water Minnesota has. There are more than 6,000 rivers in our beautiful state, many of which have been important not only to Minnesota, but to the entire region’s – and country’s – economic development. The most important river? None other than the Mighty Mississippi. In fact, it is the very reason that First Bridge Park in Minneapolis exists. Read on to learn more about this one-of-a-kind bridge park in Minnesota.

As you probably know, Minneapolis lies along the Mississippi River. Its development hinged on the river's power, with many mills popping up along the banks.
Wikimedia Commons
Because of its importance, the area was quickly developed. In 1855, Franklin Steele - an early settler of Minneapolis - built a suspension bridge over the Mississippi.
Wikimedia Commons
Not only was this the first bridge across the Mississippi River in Minnesota. It was the first bridge over the river anywhere.
Wikimedia Commons

Related Stories

The One Staggering Ice Castle In Minnesota You Need To See To Believe

The One Staggering Ice Castle In Minnesota You Need To See To Believe

 This Castle Restaurant In Minnesota Is A Fantasy Come To Life

This Castle Restaurant In Minnesota Is A Fantasy Come To Life

 This Covered Bridge Festival In Minnesota Is One Nostalgic Event You Won’t Want To Miss

This Covered Bridge Festival In Minnesota Is One Nostalgic Event You Won’t Want To Miss
Decades later, long after the original bridge had been rebuilt, the city acquired 22 acres of land to create the park. It was finally completed in 2001.
Jim Denham/Flickr
First Bridge Park features the footings from the first three bridges built in the area.
Peter Jackson/Flickr
The park also features a beautiful walkway complete with seating along the river. It's a perfect place to watch the river flow southward as the city swirls around you.
Chris/Flickr
First Bridge Park is located under the Hennepin Avenue Bridge between West River Parkway and the Mississippi River. Visit to learn more about Minnesota's early history and bask in the beauty of Minneapolis.
Michael Hicks/Flickr

Have you ever walked along the Mississippi River at First Bridge Park? Let us know what you thought! And if you love bridges, don’t forget to check out the only remaining covered bridge in Minnesota.

OnlyInYourState may earn compensation through affiliate links in this article. As an Amazon Associate, we earn from qualifying purchases.

Related Articles

Explore Minnesota