Hoan Bridge
Milwaukee's iconic Hoan Bridge, a marvel of engineering illuminated nightly, connecting communities and hosting vibrant events.

Highlights
Must-see attractions

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Best Time
Bridge lights up spectacularly
Hoan Bridge
Best Time
Bridge lights up spectacularly

Highlights
Must-see attractions
Milwaukee's iconic Hoan Bridge, a marvel of engineering illuminated nightly, connecting communities and hosting vibrant events.
"The Hoan Bridge is a glorious piece of engineering, but what's even better is the lighting!"
📸 Best photo spots
Sail Loft and National Ave boat launch offer prime views for stunning bridge photos.
✨ Dynamic light shows
Check for special themed light shows, like Star Wars or awareness days!
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences

Illuminated Night Views
Along the Milwaukee Riverfront
Witness the bridge transform into a dazzling light show, with colors often changing for special occasions.

Hoancoming Festival
Near the Hoan Bridge
Experience a community celebration with fireworks, drone displays, and live music.

Aerial Perspectives
From nearby high points or drone footage
See the bridge's impressive scale and its connection to Lake Michigan and the city skyline.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Nighttime is the Right Time
Community & Events Hub
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
📸 Best photo spots
Sail Loft and National Ave boat launch offer prime views for stunning bridge photos.
✨ Dynamic light shows
Check for special themed light shows, like Star Wars or awareness days!
🚗 Driving experience
Enjoy the drive any time of day or night; it's a unique perspective.
🛥️ River cruise views
Take a boat ride for a unique vantage point of the bridge.
Tips
from all over the internet
📸 Best photo spots
Sail Loft and National Ave boat launch offer prime views for stunning bridge photos.
✨ Dynamic light shows
Check for special themed light shows, like Star Wars or awareness days!
🚗 Driving experience
Enjoy the drive any time of day or night; it's a unique perspective.
🛥️ River cruise views
Take a boat ride for a unique vantage point of the bridge.
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Visitors consistently praise the Hoan Bridge, especially its spectacular nighttime illumination and its role as a community icon. Many highlight the bridge's engineering marvel and its ability to uplift spirits, particularly during special events and light shows. While primarily a driving route, its visual appeal from various vantage points makes it a beloved Milwaukee landmark.
"Great boat ride under an immense bridge!!"
Nathan Wischnewski
"I absolutely love this bridge! It's a glorious piece of engineering, but what's even better is the lighting! Sometimes they change the colors up, but usually it's the yellow with blue and twinkling lights, and it's really a sight to see at night!!"
Glenn Martinie
"A jewel of a bridge in the Historic 3rd Ward. Named after Milwaukee's socialist mayor who served from 1916 to 1940. The Western face of the bridge is lit with a different theme nearly every evening. The best views are from the Sail Loft and National Ave boat launch. Various festivals like Hoanchella and Hoancoming celebrate the bridge with fireworks, drone displays, and music from local stations."
Tim M
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
The Hoan Bridge is easily accessible by car, connecting downtown Milwaukee to the south side. It's a major artery, so GPS navigation is straightforward. For those looking for a scenic approach, consider a boat tour on the Milwaukee River, which often passes under or alongside the bridge.
While direct bus routes might not stop directly on the bridge itself, several Milwaukee County Transit System (MCTS) routes serve areas near the bridge on both the north and south sides. Check the MCTS website for routes that get you closest to your desired viewing spot.
Parking availability can vary. Areas near the Historic Third Ward or along the riverfront offer some options. For specific events, designated parking areas are usually provided.
The Hoan Bridge is primarily designed for vehicular traffic. While some sections may have pedestrian or bike access, it's best to check local advisories or opt for a boat tour for a safer and more scenic experience.
Many visitors recommend experiencing the Hoan Bridge at night when its lights are on full display. A boat tour on the Milwaukee River offers a unique perspective, especially during events.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
No, general viewing of the Hoan Bridge is free. However, if you plan to attend specific events like Hoancoming, tickets or passes may be required for entry to festival grounds or viewing areas.
The Hoan Bridge is a public roadway and is open 24/7 for vehicular traffic. The lighting displays typically run from dusk until dawn.
As of recent information, there are no tolls or fees associated with driving over the Hoan Bridge.
Special light shows, often themed, occur on various evenings. It's best to follow the 'Light the Hoan' social media accounts or local Milwaukee event listings for schedules.
Yes, events like Hoancoming are designed for public access. Information on viewing areas and tickets can usually be found on the event's official website or social media pages.
📸 📸 Photography
The most dramatic photos are taken at night when the bridge's lighting system is active. Dusk and dawn also offer beautiful light for capturing the bridge with the city skyline or Lake Michigan.
Photographers often recommend the Sail Loft and National Ave boat launch for excellent views. The Milwaukee Riverwalk and various points along the lakefront also provide great vantage points.
Drone usage is subject to FAA regulations and local ordinances. Always check current rules and obtain necessary permissions before flying a drone in the area.
For night photography, use a tripod for stability, a wider aperture (lower f-number) to let in more light, and experiment with longer exposure times to capture the light trails and illuminated details.
Daytime photos can showcase the bridge's impressive engineering and its integration with the Milwaukee landscape, including Lake Michigan and the city skyline.
🎫 💡 Community & Events
The Hoan Bridge is a centerpiece for community events like Hoancoming and Hoanchella, which often feature fireworks, drone shows, and live music. It's also lit up for various awareness days.
Follow local Milwaukee event calendars, the 'Light the Hoan' social media pages, and community news outlets for announcements about upcoming events and special lighting schedules.
'Light the Hoan' is an initiative aimed at illuminating the Hoan Bridge with dynamic lighting, often for community events and awareness campaigns, enhancing its role as a Milwaukee landmark.
When the Hoan Bridge is lit orange, it's often in support of Ehlers-Danlos Syndrome (EDS) Awareness, as Wisconsin is one of the states that recognizes it.
Yes, festivals like Hoancoming and Hoanchella are held to celebrate the bridge and the community it connects, often featuring spectacular light and aerial displays.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
📸 Photography Enthusiasts
🌃 Nightlife & Evening Explorers
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
The Hoan Bridge: An Engineering Marvel and Community Icon
Beyond its functional purpose, the Hoan Bridge has evolved into a symbol of community pride and a canvas for artistic expression. The 'Light the Hoan' initiative has transformed the bridge into a dynamic visual spectacle, with its lighting system frequently changing colors to celebrate holidays, support awareness campaigns, and enhance the city's nighttime ambiance. This transformation has fostered a deeper connection between the bridge and the residents of Milwaukee, turning it into a focal point for local events and celebrations.
Community events like Hoancoming and Hoanchella further solidify the bridge's role as a cultural hub. These festivals often include fireworks, drone shows, and live music, drawing crowds to experience the bridge in a festive and engaging way. The bridge's ability to unite the community through shared experiences and visual splendor underscores its importance not just as a structure, but as a beloved icon of Milwaukee.
Experiencing the Hoan Bridge: Views and Activities
For unparalleled views, consider a boat tour on the Milwaukee River. These tours offer a unique perspective, allowing you to glide beneath the immense structure and appreciate its scale from water level. Many tours also provide opportunities to stop for local dining, making for a complete evening experience. Alternatively, for those who prefer to stay on land, prime viewing spots include the Sail Loft and the National Ave boat launch, which offer excellent vantage points for photography and simply soaking in the illuminated beauty.
The bridge also serves as a backdrop for significant community events. Hoancoming and Hoanchella are prime examples, transforming the area around the bridge into a lively festival ground with fireworks and drone displays. Even a simple drive across the bridge offers a memorable experience, providing sweeping views of Lake Michigan on one side and the Milwaukee skyline on the other, a constant reminder of hope and connection.
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from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit