Minnesota might as well be called the Land of 10,000 Parks! Okay, maybe there aren’t quite that many. But there are certainly plenty to see! We all know about Minnesota’s dozens of state parks. But do you know about the local parks that dot every corner of the state? They’re full of history, beauty, and recreation. One favorite is a little-known spot in Inver Grove Heights. Visit the Rock Island Swing Bridge for a small piece of Minnesota history with a beautiful view of the Mississippi River. Read on below to learn more:

Rock Island Swing Bridge was a bridge that spanned the Mississippi River between Inver Grove Heights and St. Paul Park, Minnesota. It was built in 1890 and included two levels: one for rail crossings, and one for road crossings. However, the bridge closed to rail traffic in 1980 and road traffic in 1999.
Dmitrij Ponkin/Google
Once traffic closed on the bridge, its future was in limbo for a decade. Finally in 2011, it reopened as a recreational pier. Today, you can explore the bridge from a lovely park in Inver Grove Heights.
Rock Island Swing Bridge/Google
When you arrive, you'll find a peaceful picnic area where you can enjoy a lunch with a view of the Mississippi River. While this isn't a huge park, it definitely has beautiful views.
Dmitrij Ponkin/Google

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Of course, you'll also want to cross the bridge. Its more than 600-foot span is completely dedicated to pedestrian traffic, so it's a great way to get a few steps in.
J. HermanRussell/Google
The bridge offers beautiful views. Towering over the Mississippi River, it offers lovely scenery in every direction. It's also fun to explore the bridge itself. After all, it has a more than 100-year history!
ROck Island Swing Bridge/Google
Sometimes, your view will include boats gliding down the river. In the distance, you'll see a tree-lined shore dotted with industrial buildings. This historic bridge is an interesting place to spend a few hours on a sunny afternoon!
Remo Miron/Google

Have you ever been to the Rock Island Swing Bridge? For more information about the Rock Island Swing Bridge, visit its page on the city of Inver Grove Heights website. And if you’re curious about other small parks in Minnesota, you might be interested in our past articles about Elm Creek Park Reserve and Oxbow Park and Zollman Zoo.

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Rock Island Swing Bridge, 4465 66th St E, Inver Grove Heights, MN 55076, USA