George Rogers Clark Memorial Bridge
A historic, toll-free Art Deco bridge connecting Louisville, KY, and Jeffersonville, IN, offering scenic river views.
Highlights
Must-see attractions

Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Golden hour views
George Rogers Clark Memorial Bridge
Best Time
Golden hour views
Highlights
Must-see attractions
A historic, toll-free Art Deco bridge connecting Louisville, KY, and Jeffersonville, IN, offering scenic river views.
"This toll-free bridge offers a scenic route with beautiful city and river views, especially at sunset."
✅ Toll-Free Travel
Enjoy this free crossing over the Ohio River, unlike some other nearby bridges.
🌅 Sunset Drive
Plan your drive around sunset for stunning city and river views.
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
Scenic River Views
Spanning the Ohio River
Enjoy picturesque views of the Ohio River and the Louisville skyline, especially beautiful at sunset.

Art Deco Architecture
The bridge structure itself
Appreciate the historic Art Deco design of this 1920s cantilevered truss bridge.

Pedestrian Walkway
Along the bridge's edge
Take a leisurely stroll or bike ride on the dedicated pedestrian walkway for a unique perspective.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Toll-Free Crossing Advantage
Plan for Potential Delays
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
✅ Toll-Free Travel
Enjoy this free crossing over the Ohio River, unlike some other nearby bridges.
🌅 Sunset Drive
Plan your drive around sunset for stunning city and river views.
🚶♀️ Walk the Bridge
Utilize the pedestrian walkway for a unique perspective and exercise.
🚦 Expect Delays
Traffic can be slow, especially during rush hour or after incidents.
Tips
from all over the internet
✅ Toll-Free Travel
Enjoy this free crossing over the Ohio River, unlike some other nearby bridges.
🌅 Sunset Drive
Plan your drive around sunset for stunning city and river views.
🚶♀️ Walk the Bridge
Utilize the pedestrian walkway for a unique perspective and exercise.
🚦 Expect Delays
Traffic can be slow, especially during rush hour or after incidents.
🚗 Connects KY & IN
Conveniently links Louisville, KY, with Jeffersonville, IN.
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Visitors praise the George Rogers Clark Memorial Bridge for its scenic river and city views, especially at sunset, and its significant advantage as a toll-free crossing. While generally a pleasant experience, some note that traffic can cause considerable delays, turning a quick crossing into a lengthy one.
"Great bridge views!! And it’s a toll free route through Louisville. 4 bridges at one time. Try this crossing at sunset if you can plan it right. Makes for a beautiful short drive and amazing views. Well worth the 2 min longer route! 🙌🏼😍"
Yolo Freeman
"The George Rogers Clark Memorial Bridge, also known as the Second Street Bridge, is a significant landmark that offers both functional connectivity and historic charm to Louisville. This toll-free bridge spans the Ohio River, providing a scenic route between Louisville, Kentucky, and Jeffersonville, Indiana. It’s not just a convenient crossing; the bridge itself is a piece of art deco architecture that dates back to the early 20th century, offering a picturesque view of the river and city skyline. Whether you’re crossing by car or taking a leisurely walk along its sidewalks, the bridge presents a wonderful opportunity to take in the surrounding views and appreciate a piece of regional history."
Anup Lamichhane
"We were stuck shortly after we drove onto the bridge. Took over 25 min to get from one end to the other. Still beautiful."
Gina Sutherland
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
The bridge is accessible via surface streets in Louisville, KY, connecting to US 31. It's a straightforward drive from downtown Louisville.
From Jeffersonville, IN, you can access the bridge via local roads leading to US 31. It's a direct route into Louisville.
No, the George Rogers Clark Memorial Bridge is a toll-free crossing, making it a popular choice for many travelers.
Yes, there is a pedestrian walkway available, allowing you to walk or bike across the bridge and enjoy the views.
The bridge carries US 31 and connects Louisville, Kentucky, with Jeffersonville, Indiana.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
No tickets are required as the George Rogers Clark Memorial Bridge is a toll-free crossing.
There are no fees or tolls for using the George Rogers Clark Memorial Bridge.
The bridge is open 24/7 for vehicular traffic, though specific lanes may be closed due to incidents or maintenance.
Traffic can be heavy during morning and evening commutes. Mid-day or late at night might offer a less crowded experience.
The bridge is generally accessible at all times, but always check local traffic advisories for any unexpected closures.
📸 📸 Photography
From the pedestrian walkway, the banks of the Ohio River on either side, or from nearby viewpoints like the waterfront parks offer great photo opportunities.
It is not safe to take photos while driving. Use the pedestrian walkway or pull over in designated safe areas if possible.
Sunset provides beautiful lighting for capturing the bridge and city skyline. Early morning can also offer unique light.
Generally, personal photography is allowed. However, commercial photography or drone usage may require permits.
You can capture panoramic views of the river, city skyline, and the bridge's unique architecture from the walkway.
🎫 🚗 Onsite Experience
The speed limit is typically lower than on highway bridges, as it's a surface street connection. Be mindful of posted signs.
Recent incidents have highlighted potential for significant delays. Always check local traffic reports before crossing.
The bridge is 38 feet wide and carries four lanes of traffic.
Under normal conditions, the crossing is quick, but traffic can cause delays of over 25 minutes.
The pedestrian walkway may have accessibility features, but vehicular access is standard. Check local transit for specific accessibility information.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
🚗 Budget Travelers
📸 Photographers
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
A Bridge of History and Connectivity
Beyond its functional importance, the bridge offers a unique perspective on the Louisville skyline and the Ohio River. Its pedestrian walkway allows visitors to experience the crossing at a slower pace, taking in the views and appreciating the bridge's historic architecture. While generally a smooth and convenient route, it's important to note that its surface street nature means it can be susceptible to traffic congestion, especially during peak hours or in the event of an accident.
Recent events, including a dramatic semi-truck incident where a vehicle dangled precariously over the river, have highlighted the bridge's capacity for unexpected challenges. These incidents, while alarming, also showcase the bravery of first responders and the resilience of the bridge's infrastructure. Despite these occasional disruptions, the George Rogers Clark Memorial Bridge remains a beloved and essential landmark for the region.
Navigating Traffic and Safety
Safety is paramount on any bridge. While the pedestrian walkway offers a safe space for walkers and cyclists, drivers should remain focused on the road. The bridge's design, while historic, is not built for the high speeds of modern interstates, and drivers should adhere to posted speed limits. The experience of a driver being rescued after their truck dangled over the river serves as a stark reminder of the importance of safe driving practices and the critical role of first responders in ensuring public safety.
For those planning a trip, checking real-time traffic updates via local news apps or navigation services is highly recommended. This proactive approach can help avoid unexpected delays and ensure a smoother journey across this iconic Kentucky-Indiana crossing. The bridge's historical significance and scenic views make it a worthwhile experience, provided one is prepared for potential traffic variations.
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