Lowry Avenue Bridge
A modern marvel over the Mississippi, the Lowry Avenue Bridge dazzles with programmable LED lights, offering stunning views and a vital connection.
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Vibrant light displays
Lowry Avenue Bridge
Best Time
Vibrant light displays
Highlights
Must-see attractions
A modern marvel over the Mississippi, the Lowry Avenue Bridge dazzles with programmable LED lights, offering stunning views and a vital connection.
"This bridge was breathtaking for me. My pictures do the bridge no justice."
📸 Capture the Colors
Don't miss the bridge when it's lit up! Check for special events like Pride or awareness months for stunning rainbow or themed lights.
🚗 Check for Closures
Temporary closures can happen. Always verify traffic updates before heading out to avoid detours.
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
The Illuminated Spectacle
The entire bridge structure
Witness the bridge transform into a canvas of color, especially during Pride or awareness months. A truly magical sight.
Mississippi River Reflections
From the bridge deck or riverbanks
Capture stunning mirror-like reflections of the bridge and sunset on the calm Mississippi River. Perfect for photographers.
Architectural Appreciation
Various vantage points
Admire the modern design and engineering of this iconic Minneapolis landmark. A testament to connectivity.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Timing Your Visit for the Best Views
Navigating Potential Closures
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
📸 Capture the Colors
Don't miss the bridge when it's lit up! Check for special events like Pride or awareness months for stunning rainbow or themed lights. 
🚗 Check for Closures
Temporary closures can happen. Always verify traffic updates before heading out to avoid detours.
🌅 Sunset Reflections
For breathtaking photos, aim for sunset. The river often provides a perfect mirror for the bridge's glow.
🚶♀️ Pedestrian Friendly
The bridge is accessible for pedestrians and cyclists, offering great views as you cross.
Tips
from all over the internet
📸 Capture the Colors
Don't miss the bridge when it's lit up! Check for special events like Pride or awareness months for stunning rainbow or themed lights.
🚗 Check for Closures
Temporary closures can happen. Always verify traffic updates before heading out to avoid detours.
🌅 Sunset Reflections
For breathtaking photos, aim for sunset. The river often provides a perfect mirror for the bridge's glow.
🚶♀️ Pedestrian Friendly
The bridge is accessible for pedestrians and cyclists, offering great views as you cross.
💡 Special Occasion Lights
The bridge lights up for various causes, like Williams Syndrome Awareness Month or solidarity with Ukraine.
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Visitors often find the Lowry Avenue Bridge to be a visually appealing structure, particularly when illuminated at night with its colorful LED lights. While some appreciate its modern aesthetic and function as a river crossing, others feel it lacks the character of older bridges and find it to be just 'a bridge.' The cost overruns during its construction are also a point of contention for some.
"Yes it's a bridge and it does what bridges are meant to do: 1. Get vehicles and pedestrians across the river, and 2. Not collapse. This particular bridge, however, is highly aesthetic and and it's fun to take pictures of it, especially when it's all lit up at night!"
Quinn Kelley
"This bridge was breathtaking for me. It was set on my itinerary months ago for this vacation and I am so happy that I got the opportunity to see it. My pictures do the bridge no justice. I have found better photos online."
Ebony Simmons
"Let’s say it’s a bridge.
I had high expectations. Once again, it’s a bridge.
Took a quick picture. It’s is nice. Romantic at best. Small bridge.
Recommend if you want to see a neon bridge. Better than some other bridge in MN."
Kalvin Hang
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
The Lowry Avenue Bridge is located in Northeast Minneapolis, connecting the city across the Mississippi River. It's accessible by car, and public transportation options are available. Be aware that nearby bridges like Plymouth may sometimes close simultaneously, so checking traffic advisories is recommended.
Parking availability can vary. Street parking might be found in the surrounding Northeast Minneapolis neighborhoods, but it's advisable to check local parking regulations. Consider public transport or ride-sharing services for convenience.
Yes, the Lowry Avenue Bridge is designed for both pedestrians and cyclists, offering a pleasant way to experience the crossing and enjoy the views.
For stunning photos, capture the bridge during sunset for golden hour light or at night when it's illuminated. Riverbanks offer great vantage points for reflections.
Yes, the Lowry Avenue Bridge is a drawbridge. While not frequently raised, its mechanism is a fascinating aspect of its engineering.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
No, visiting and walking across the Lowry Avenue Bridge is free of charge. It's a public thoroughfare and a scenic spot for everyone to enjoy.
As a public bridge, the Lowry Avenue Bridge is accessible 24/7 for pedestrian and vehicle traffic. However, specific lighting displays may only be active during certain hours or for special events.
There are no tolls or fees for pedestrians, cyclists, or vehicles to cross the Lowry Avenue Bridge. It serves as a vital, free connection across the Mississippi River.
The bridge is often lit up for special occasions, such as Pride weekend (rainbow colors) or Williams Syndrome Awareness Month (blue, pink, and yellow). Check local event calendars for specific dates.
Absolutely! Nighttime is a fantastic time to photograph the Lowry Avenue Bridge, especially when it's illuminated with various colors.
📸 📸 Photography Tips
Experiment with angles from both sides of the Mississippi River. The riverbanks offer excellent spots for capturing reflections, especially during sunset or when the bridge is lit.
For night photography, use a tripod to ensure sharp images. Experiment with longer exposure times to capture the light trails and illuminated colors. A wider aperture can also help gather more light.
While beautiful year-round, consider visiting during seasons with dramatic sunsets or when special lighting events are scheduled, like Pride weekend for rainbow colors. Winter can offer unique icy reflections.
Instagrammers often share photos of the bridge at sunset, illuminated at night, and with reflections in the Mississippi River. Shots featuring the city skyline in the background are also popular.
Drone usage is subject to FAA regulations and local ordinances. Always check current rules and obtain necessary permissions before flying a drone near the bridge or over the Mississippi River.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
Consider visiting during daylight hours for a more relaxed experience, or plan an evening outing to witness the colorful light displays. Pack some snacks and enjoy the views of the river and the city. It's a simple yet memorable outing that combines a bit of engineering marvel with the beauty of the outdoors.
📸 Photography Enthusiasts
+2Experiment with different angles from the riverbanks and utilize a tripod for sharp night shots. The bridge's ability to change colors for special events offers unique photographic opportunities throughout the year, making it a dynamic subject for any portfolio.
🚶♀️ Pedestrians & Cyclists
It's an ideal way to experience the riverfront and connect different parts of Northeast Minneapolis. Whether you're commuting or sightseeing, crossing the bridge offers a refreshing perspective on the city.
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
The Lowry Avenue Bridge: A Modern Icon
One of the most captivating features of the Lowry Avenue Bridge is its programmable LED lighting system. This allows the bridge to display a spectrum of colors for special occasions and awareness months. It famously lights up in rainbow colors for Pride weekend and in blue, pink, and yellow for Williams Syndrome Awareness Month, a tradition started in honor of a local son. These light displays transform the bridge into a dynamic visual spectacle, especially after dark, drawing admiration from locals and visitors alike.
+1Beyond its aesthetic appeal, the bridge serves a crucial function as a vital transportation link. It accommodates vehicles, pedestrians, and cyclists, facilitating movement across the river. While it is a drawbridge, its operation is not a frequent occurrence. The bridge's presence enhances the urban landscape and provides scenic views of the Mississippi River and the surrounding Minneapolis skyline, making it a popular spot for casual strolls and dedicated photography sessions.
Capturing the Magic: Photography and Views
+1At night, the bridge truly comes alive with its programmable LED lighting. Visitors can witness it adorned in vibrant colors, from rainbow hues during Pride celebrations to specific colors for awareness months. These illuminated displays create a dramatic and romantic atmosphere, making it an ideal subject for long-exposure photography. Capturing these light shows requires attention to camera settings, often utilizing a tripod for stability and longer shutter speeds to capture the full brilliance of the colors.
+2Beyond the bridge itself, the surrounding areas offer excellent vantage points. The riverbanks on both sides of the Mississippi provide unique perspectives, allowing photographers to frame the bridge against the city skyline or capture its full span. Whether you're an amateur with a smartphone or a professional with advanced gear, the Lowry Avenue Bridge offers endless possibilities for creating memorable images.
+1
Social
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit