The Michigan Avenue Bridge is a bascule bridge that carries Michigan Avenue across the main stem of the Chicago River in downtown Chicago, Illinois, United States. The bridge was proposed in the early 20th century as part of a plan to link Chicago's south side and north side parks with a grand boulevard. Construction of the bridge started in 1918, it opened to traffic in 1920, and decorative work was completed in 1928. The bridge provides passage for vehicles and pedestrians on two levels; it is an example of a fixed trunnion bascule bridge, which is also known as a "Chicago style bascule bridge". The bridge is included in the Michigan–Wacker Historic District and has been designated as a Chicago Landmark.
The location is significant in the early history of Chicago. Events from the city's past are commemorated with sculptures and plaques on the bridge, and exhibits in the McCormick Bridgehouse & Chicago River Museum—housed in one of the bridge tender houses—detail the history of the Chicago River.
The Michigan Avenue Bridge has a north–south orientation, spanning the main stem of the Chicago River between the Near North Side and Loop community areas of Chicago. Its northern portal lies at the foot of the Magnificent Mile, between the Wrigley Building and Tribune Tower. Its southern portal is at the intersection of Michigan Avenue and Wacker Drive, overlooked by the London Guarantee Building and 333 North Michigan. The neighboring bridges are Columbus Drive Bridge to the east and Wabash Avenue Bridge to the west. Put Michigan Avenue Bridge and other Chicago attractions into our Chicago trip planner, and watch your holiday take shape.
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Michigan Avenue Bridge reviews
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The Michigan Avenue Bridge has been officially renamed over a decade ago, and since 2010 it is referred to as The DuSable Bridge -- named after Jean Baptiste Point du Sable, regarded as the first...
The Michigan Avenue Bridge has been officially renamed over a decade ago, and since 2010 it is referred to as The DuSable Bridge -- named after Jean Baptiste Point du Sable, regarded as the first... more »
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The Du Sable Bridge, formerly the Michigan Avenue Bridge, cannot be compared to the Golden Gate. But Chicago's signature bridge that carries Michigan Avenue traffic and pedestrians across the main...
The Du Sable Bridge, formerly the Michigan Avenue Bridge, cannot be compared to the Golden Gate. But Chicago's signature bridge that carries Michigan Avenue traffic and pedestrians across the main... more »
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This bridge had one of the best views especially on St Patrick’s Day 2022 with the imposing Trump Tower on the right and a wide view of the river walk. Naturally it also has the maximum crowd but it is definitely worth the quick walk.
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A very good place for photo shots. Incredible history bridge. Making the city connected with each other.
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