Minnesota is full of history. It’s in everything from our state parks to our rock formations to some of our most beautiful buildings. Many of the history you can find extends a century or more back in time. That’s certainly the case for one special bridge that has been standing in Minnesota for more than a century. Though it has a long history, it stands today as a pedestrian bridge that happens to be one of the best spots to see the Mississippi River. Take a look:

The Rock Island Swing Bridge is a beautiful - and historic - spot in Inver Grove Heights, Minnesota. It's part of the lovely Swing Bridge Park.
Jeff Lowen/Google
Built in 1894, the bridge is more than 100 years old. At the time, it was one of the only double-decker bridges over the Mississippi River!
Dan Thompson/Google
The bridge's original use was to carry railroad traffic across the river on the top deck. The bottom deck carried road traffic.
Erin Schulte/Google
After nearly 100 years, the bridge closed to rail traffic. The year was 1980, and the railroad that had owned the bridge went bankrupt.
Patrick Cretan/Google

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Years later, in 1999, the bridge closed to rail traffic as well. Another blow to the bridge occurred 10 years later, when part of it was demolished.
Patrick Cretan/Google
But in just a few years, that would all change. In 2011, the bridge opened to pedestrian traffic!
Krista Linn/Google
It is now one of the most beautiful Mississippi River overlooks. You can walk, bike, or skate across it.
Moua Her/Google
Next time you're in the area, make sure to stop at this historic bridge. Not only is it full of history, but it offers spectacular views.
Scottie Tuska/Google

Have you heard of the Rock Island Swinging Bridge? Would you ever visit? For a newer – but still beautiful – bridge excursion, check out this hike across the tallest bridge in Minnesota.

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