Boulevard Bridge Nickel Bridge
The Boulevard Bridge, aka Nickel Bridge, offers scenic river views and free pedestrian/bike access, connecting North and South Richmond with a small v...
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Fewer crowds, great light
Boulevard Bridge Nickel Bridge
Best Time
Fewer crowds, great light
Highlights
Must-see attractions
The Boulevard Bridge, aka Nickel Bridge, offers scenic river views and free pedestrian/bike access, connecting North and South Richmond with a small vehicle toll.
"The prettiest bridge in RVA to drive over. The walk across was great too once I figured out how to get on it!"
🚗 Vehicle Toll Info
Pay 35 cents or use EZPass. Toll attendant available for cash bills.
🚶♀️ Pedestrian & Bike Access
Free to cross on foot or by bike. Be mindful of narrow pathways.
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
Scenic Drive
Across the James River
Enjoy picturesque views of the river and surrounding areas as you drive or cycle across this iconic Richmond landmark.
Pedestrian & Bike Path
Alongside the roadway
A unique pathway offers a great spot for a walk or run with river vistas, though it can be narrow.
Underwater Pipeline Trail
Above the bridge, towards the historic train bridge
Explore an unusual trail along an underwater pipeline for a different perspective of the river.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Toll & Access
Best Times for Solitude
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
🚗 Vehicle Toll Info
Pay 35 cents or use EZPass. Toll attendant available for cash bills.
🚶♀️ Pedestrian & Bike Access
Free to cross on foot or by bike. Be mindful of narrow pathways.
📸 Photo Opportunities
Record videos day or night; pathway can ice up in winter.
🐻 Wildlife Encounters
Be cautious of wildlife, including bears, especially during certain seasons.
Tips
from all over the internet
🚗 Vehicle Toll Info
Pay 35 cents or use EZPass. Toll attendant available for cash bills.
🚶♀️ Pedestrian & Bike Access
Free to cross on foot or by bike. Be mindful of narrow pathways.
📸 Photo Opportunities
Record videos day or night; pathway can ice up in winter.
🐻 Wildlife Encounters
Be cautious of wildlife, including bears, especially during certain seasons.
🚴♀️ Bike Lane Proposals
Feedback is being sought for proposed bike lanes on Westover Hills Blvd.
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Visitors praise the Boulevard Bridge (Nickel Bridge) for its scenic beauty and affordability, especially for pedestrians and cyclists who cross for free. The unique underwater pipeline trail and the picturesque drive are highlights. However, some find the pedestrian path narrow, and caution is advised regarding traffic safety and potential wildlife encounters.
"35¢ change or EZPass, to cross by car, free on foot or bike. Toll attendant present for full service if you only have bills, max $20. Known as the Nickle Bridge because the original toll was 5¢, the official name is the Boulevard Toll Bridge and it connects North and South Richmond. When built, those living on the South side were given passes so they didn't have to pay the toll and were instead waived through by the toll attendant."
Ronda Bernstein
"Wonderful pathway to record a video day or night, pathway will ice up and freeze during very cold Winters."
Arthur A Johnson
"The prettiest bridge in RVA to drive over. The walk across was great too once I figured out how to get on it!"
Lizzy Pass
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
The Boulevard Bridge, also known as the Nickel Bridge, connects Westover Hills and the Carillon/Maymont/Byrd Park areas in Richmond, VA. It's accessible by car, bike, or on foot, linking the north and south sides of the city.
Parking is available near the bridge, with access points for the pedestrian path and the underwater pipeline trail.
Yes, it's legal to run and bike across the Boulevard Bridge. While the pedestrian/bike path is available, some have noted it can be narrow.
The bridge connects Westover Hills Boulevard to areas like Carillon and Byrd Park, offering scenic routes through beautiful neighborhoods.
While legal, some cyclists express caution regarding Richmond drivers' safety on the roadway.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
The toll for vehicles is 35 cents, or you can use an EZPass. Pedestrians and cyclists cross for free.
No, the original 5-cent toll has changed. It now costs 35 cents for vehicles, though it's still affectionately called the Nickel Bridge.
Historically, residents on the South side were given passes. Currently, the 35-cent toll is a budget-friendly option compared to other bridges.
A toll attendant is present for full service if you only have bills. The exact hours for the attendant are not specified, but the bridge is generally accessible.
Yes, a toll attendant is available to accept cash payments if you only have bills.
🎫 🏞️ Onsite Experience
You can enjoy a scenic drive, walk, or bike across the bridge. There's also a unique underwater pipeline trail to explore.
The bridge offers beautiful views of the James River and the surrounding Richmond landscape, especially during the day and at night.
The pathway is accessible for walking and biking, but it is noted as being quite narrow.
Be aware of potential icing during cold winters and exercise caution regarding wildlife, such as bears, in the surrounding natural areas.
Yes, the pathway is a wonderful spot to record videos day or night.
📸 📸 Photography
The bridge is beautiful both day and night, offering different photographic opportunities. Golden hour and twilight can provide particularly stunning light.
Capture scenic river views, the bridge's architecture, and the surrounding cityscape. The underwater pipeline trail also offers unique angles.
No specific restrictions are mentioned, but always be mindful of other visitors and traffic.
Experiment with shots from the pedestrian path, the underwater pipeline trail, or from viewpoints along the riverbanks for varied perspectives.
Drone regulations vary by location and airspace. It's advisable to check local FAA guidelines before flying a drone in the area.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
Remember to pack snacks and water, and be mindful of the weather, especially during colder months when the pathway can get icy. 🏃♀️ Runners and Cyclists
📸 Photographers and Content Creators
Creators can find ample opportunities for video recording, whether it's a scenic drive montage or a personal vlog. Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
Navigating the Nickel Bridge: Tolls, Paths, and Safety
Beyond the main crossing, adventurous visitors can explore the unique underwater pipeline trail that runs above the bridge, leading towards the historic train bridge. This offers a different perspective of the river and its surroundings.
When planning your visit, be aware of seasonal conditions; the pathway can become icy and hazardous during very cold winters. Richmond's Department of Public Works is also actively seeking community input on proposed bike lanes along Westover Hills Boulevard, south of the Nickel Bridge. This indicates ongoing efforts to improve cycling infrastructure in the area, potentially enhancing the experience for cyclists in the future.
The Charm and Challenges of the Boulevard Bridge
Despite its charm, the bridge presents some practical considerations. The roadway is described as narrow, which can be a concern for cyclists sharing the space with vehicles, leading to discussions about safety and driver behavior.
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