With as much water as Minnesota has, it should come as no surprise that the state is also full of bridges. While some do offer spectacular lake views, the majority of Minnesota’s bridges cross rivers and streams. One of our favorites is an iconic bridge that, if you consider yourself a true Minnesota, you should cross at least once in your life. Take a look:

The Stone Arch Bridge is located in downtown Minneapolis, Minnesota.

jpellgen/Flickr

The historic bridge is not only beautiful, but it has become a symbol of the Twin Cities - and of Minnesota as a whole.

jpellgen/Flickr

The Stone Arch Bridge was first opened in 1883 as a railroad bridge. It carried trains to and from the Twin Cities for decades.

New York Public Library/Wikimedia Commons

The last passenger train crossed the bridge in 1978. After that, ownership changed hands several times over the decades.

Ali Eminov/Flickr

Eventually, in 1994, the bridge became a biking and walking trail. It’s one of the best walks in Minneapolis.

puppethead/Flickr

The bridge is noted for its distinctive arch design. It consists of 21 stone arch spans that cross the Mississippi River.

jpellgen/Flickr

There are lovely river views of the bridge, as well as a stunning view of downtown Minneapolis. It’s especially pretty at night!

Chris Ford/Flickr

A total of 2,100 feet in length and 28 feet wide, it is a popular spot for many events such as the Stone Arch Bridge Festival.

Stone Arch Bridge Festival/Facebook

It’s also a prime spot to watch Minneapolis shoot off fireworks over the river.

Mac H/TripAdvisor

All in all, you can’t miss this remarkable bridge. It’s a piece of Minnesota history!

Dickson0202/TripAdvisor

Have you ever hiked or walked across the Stone Arch Bridge? Do you have any other favorite Minneapolis icons, bridge or otherwise? Let us know in the comments below!

jpellgen/Flickr

New York Public Library/Wikimedia Commons

Ali Eminov/Flickr

puppethead/Flickr

Chris Ford/Flickr

Stone Arch Bridge Festival/Facebook

Mac H/TripAdvisor

Dickson0202/TripAdvisor

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