There’s a special kind of magic in places that hold both history and beauty — and the Monroe Street Bridge in Spokane, Washington, is one of them.

Rising gracefully over the Spokane River, this century-old landmark tells stories not through words, but through the sound of rushing water and the rhythm of footsteps crossing its arches. It’s more than just concrete and steel; it’s a living connection between past and present.

Completed in 1911, the bridge stretches 896 feet (273 meters) long and stands 136 feet (41.5 meters) high, ranking among the grandest early 20th-century concrete arch bridges in the world. Built at a cost of $500,000, it was a monumental achievement for its time. After over ninety years of faithful service, it underwent a complete restoration between 2003 and 2005 — a project that cost $18 million — bringing new strength to its century-old beauty. Today, the Monroe Street Bridge still stands proudly as the beating heart of downtown Spokane.

How to Get There

We can easily find the Monroe Street Bridge right in downtown Spokane, Washington. Its exact location is Monroe Street over the Spokane River, just a few minutes’ walk from Riverfront Park and the Spokane Falls SkyRide.

Transportation options:

- By car: Parking is available near Riverfront Park or at nearby lots such as Diamond Parking on Post Street, usually about $2–$3 per hour.

- By public transit: Take the Spokane Transit Authority (STA) bus to Downtown Spokane Transit Plaza, then walk about 8 minutes to the bridge.

- By bike or foot: The bridge connects easily with Spokane’s pedestrian paths and cycling routes, making it ideal for slow travel.

Opening Hours and Entrance Fees

Here’s the best part — the Monroe Street Bridge is open 24 hours a day and completely free to visit. Whether we come for sunrise, sunset, or a moonlit walk, the experience is always magical.

At night, gentle lighting along the arches highlights its classic design, giving it a romantic glow that’s perfect for photos. Early morning visits offer peaceful quiet and golden light reflecting off the Spokane River below.

Best Time to Visit

For the best experience, plan your visit between March and October, when Spokane’s weather is mild and the Spokane Falls are at their fullest flow. During spring, melting snow creates dramatic cascades under the bridge, while autumn offers crisp air and warm colors that frame the arch beautifully.

If you love photography, the golden hour before sunset is ideal for capturing the bridge and river. In winter, the area can be icy but still enchanting — just wear proper shoes and bring a warm jacket.

Nearby Attractions You Shouldn’t Miss

Visiting the Monroe Street Bridge isn’t a one-stop trip — it’s part of a larger experience in downtown Spokane.

- Riverfront Park (Free entry): A 100-acre urban park with walking trails, sculptures, and gardens. Don’t miss the Clock Tower and Howard Street Bridge nearby.

- Spokane Falls SkyRide: Take a gondola ride over the waterfalls for approximately $13 per person or $8.50 per child (open daily 10 a.m.–6 p.m.).

- Huntington Park: Located just below the bridge, it offers river-level paths and great photo spots of the arches.

- Mobius Discovery Center: A fun science and art museum for families, about a 5-minute walk away.

Food and Accommodation Around the Bridge

If we want to stay nearby, The Davenport Grand Hotel (around $150 per night) and Ruby River Hotel (around $120 per night) are both within walking distance.

For a quick bite or coffee, stop by Atticus Coffee & Gifts or Indaba Coffee — both local favorites known for cozy vibes and scenic surroundings. If we prefer dining with a view, Anthony’s at Spokane Falls offers stunning riverfront seating, with meals averaging $25–$40 per person.

Traveler Tips and Local Insights

- No tickets needed: Visiting the bridge is 100% free.

- Parking: Paid parking lots are widely available nearby.

- Photography spots: The best view is from Huntington Park or the south end of the bridge.

- Accessibility: The sidewalks on both sides are wheelchair and stroller-friendly.

- Safety tip: Avoid leaning over railings during windy days or icy seasons.

If you’re exploring at night, stay on the well-lit main paths and enjoy the view of downtown Spokane glowing across the river.

Where History Meets the Heart

The Monroe Street Bridge isn’t just an engineering marvel — it’s a living symbol of Spokane’s history and spirit. Every arch, every detail tells a story of vision, endurance, and pride. When we walk across it, we don’t just cross the river; we connect with the generations who built, restored, and cherished it.

So, Lykkers, when you plan your next Washington trip, don’t miss this gem. Let’s take a stroll above the roaring Spokane River, breathe in the century-old charm, and let the bridge remind us — beauty doesn’t fade with time; it only grows stronger.