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Bridge · Louisville, Kentucky
Big Four Bridge
Old railway bridge over the Ohio River converted into a pedestrian and bicycle walkway, connecting Louisville’s Waterfront Park to Jeffersonville, Indiana.
Illustrative images. The pictures in this guide are illustrations based on the real place, not photographs, and may differ from it.
Discover
About Big Four Bridge
The Big Four Bridge was built for trains in the late 19th century and stopped being used by the railroad in 1969. For decades it lacked access ramps, until it was reopened as a pedestrian and bicycle bridge connecting the two sides of the Ohio River.
The crossing, including the ramps, is over 1 km and begins at Waterfront Park, the riverside park in downtown Louisville. The spiral ramp rises to the deck, from where you can see the city center, the neighboring bridges and the barges moving on the river.
On the other side is Jeffersonville, already in the state of Indiana, with a main street of restaurants and ice-cream shops near the bridge exit. Many visitors cross just to set foot in another state and come back.
At night, the truss structure is lit with colored lighting. The Waterfront Park around it has lawns, playgrounds and a riverside promenade.
Before you go
Practical information
Cidade Turismo reviews its information regularly, but something may have changed. Check with the place before planning your trip.
How much time to set aside
About an hour for a round trip on foot, with stops.
Best time
At dusk, when the sky changes color behind the bridges, and shortly after when the lights are on. In summer, avoid the middle of the day.
How to get there
The Louisville ramp is at the east end of Waterfront Park, about 2 km from Main Street, on foot or by bicycle.
Tip
There are rental bikes near the park. The bridge has no shade: bring water on hot days.
Official website
Get your questions answered
Frequently asked questions about Big Four Bridge
How long does it take to cross the Big Four Bridge?
About 20 minutes’ walk each way. By bicycle, a few minutes.
Is the Big Four Bridge open at night?
The bridge is generally open late and is lit with colored lighting. Check Waterfront Park’s website for hours and any closures.
What’s on the other side of the Big Four Bridge?
Jeffersonville, in Indiana, with a street of restaurants and ice-cream shops near the ramp.