FREE In Waco: Waco Suspension Bridge
There’s a gorgeous Riverwalk in Waco that’s definitely worth checking out if you’re craving some nature and movement. While you’re on the riverwalk you’ll pass a historic-looking suspension bridge crossing the Brazos River. It’s the famous Waco Suspension Bridge, and you’re right in thinking it looks historic. It dates back to 1869!
Waco Suspension Bridge: Quick Facts:
It was built in 1869 so cattle could cross the Brazos River. Back in the 1800s, the Chisholm Trail went straight through Waco. Before the bridge was built,cattle drivers would have to get their herds across the Brazos without a bridge, which was quite dangerous.
It’s made of 3 million bricks. Impressive!
The Waco Suspension Bridge was the longest single-span suspension bridge west of the Mississippi when it was built.
Tolls cost 5 cents per herd of cattle. As the bridge was the only way for ANYONE to cross the Brazos, tolls paying off the $141,000 construction costs a breeze.
The bridge closed in 2020 for a massive renovation. It was made safer and more pedestrian-friendly and opened in 2023.
Wacoans love this bridge! Every 4th of July it’s the center location for an epic Independence Day celebration, complete with fireworks.
Can Cars Drive On The Suspension Bridge?
The Waco Suspension bridge is just for pedestrians. It’s a pretty place to walk across, soak in the views, and take advantage of the easy and safe way to get from one side of the river to the other.
Two Parks On Either Side Of The Bridge
On the south side (the downtown Waco side) is Indian Springs Park. That’s where you’ll find a really cool “Branding the Brazos” sculpture with life-size replicas of cattle and cattle drivers.
The north side of the bridge is where you’ll find Doris D Miller Park, a memorial to a hometown World War II hero. There’s a 9-foot sculpture, a fountain, a playground, and lots of grassy areas and benches.
The Waco Suspension Bridge is listed on lots of best things to do in Waco guides. And it’s definitely something worth checking out, you’re not going to need a lot of time to see this one. It’s more just something fun to walk across while you’re enjoying some outdoor exercise in downtown Waco on the riverwalk.
WEBSITE | 101 N University Parks Dr, Waco, TX 76701
About me: I’m Kelsey, a bestselling travel book author and the creator of 3 Texas travel websites. As a native Texan, I spend my own time and money exploring this state to help millions of readers find the best food, things to do, places to stay in Austin and beyond. Check out my other sites: TheSanAntonioThings.com and TheAustinThings.com!
Related:
4 Cool Things To Know About The Martin Museum of Art In Waco
Waco has a surprising number of really cool museums to visit. When it comes to small Texas towns, Waco is certainly making a name for itself! I recently went to check out the Martin Museum of Art at Baylor University,…
Read More
Move Over Magnolia: Homestead Heritage Is The Hottest Place to Shop, Eat, and Stay in Waco
We’ve all heard of Magnolia Market, and there’s a good chance it was you original gateway to Waco. Because except for those of us who grew up in Texas, the town of Waco wasn’t even a blip in your mind…
Read More
FREE in Waco: Waco Sculpture Zoo
No, the Waco Sculpture Zoo is not the same thing as the Cameron Park Zoo. (Although you could totally pair them into a fun kid-friendly day in Waco! Just add on a great kid-friendly restaurant and you’ve made a day…
Read More