Waco Suspension Bridge
Waco, TX
Stretching across the Brazos River in Texas, the Waco Suspension Bridge was built in 1870 as the longest single-span suspension bridge west of the Mississippi River. It has since been rehabilitated and turned into a pedestrian-only throughway; today, it is a popular crossing for locals and visitors alike exploring the Waco Riverwalk.
The basics
Linking Indian Spring Park and Martin Luther King, Jr. Park, the Waco Suspension Bridge is both a convenient connection across the Brazos River and a scenic photography spot for those exploring the Waco Riverwalk. You rarely need more than five to 10 minutes to appreciate the view, especially in summer, as the bridge has no relief from the sun. Some local festivals and events, including Lights Over Waco and Brazos Nights, center activities on and around the bridge.
Things to know before you go
- The next-nearest pedestrian bridge crossing the Brazos is 1 mile (1.6 kilometers) east.
- The bridge requires no admission cost or ticket to access.
- While the bridge is generally safe at night, there is no security present.
How to get there
It’s accessible from South University Parks Drive on the south side of the river and South M.L.K. Jr Boulevard on the north side. By foot, you can get there via the Waco Riverwalk at Indian Spring Park or the trails at Doris D. Miller Park. Parking on the north side of the river and walking to Waco via the bridge isn’t recommended, as many attractions are a mile or more from the bridge.
When to get there
Since it’s simply a sturdy bridge with views of the river, the Waco Suspension Bridge can be visited at any time. One of the best times to go is during sunset. The bridge may be busier on weekends and when McLane Stadium hosts an event, such as during a Baylor Bears home football game.
Brazos’ bridges showcase Waco’s best sights
The Waco Suspension Bridge isn’t the only pedestrian bridge spanning the Brazos River. The Sheila and Walter Umphrey Pedestrian Bridge runs from Grant Teaff Plaza near Baylor University’s campus to McLane Stadium. It’s the main pedestrian bridge for game days and another spot where the views of the river are supreme.
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