Visit Aerial Lift Bridge to see one of only two vertical-lift bridges in the world. Built in 1905, the bridge was upgraded between 1929 and 1930 to lift vertically. The entire bridge rises, just like an elevator, to allow boats to pass underneath. The United States Army Corps of Engineers manages a maritime museum that will help you understand the complex mechanism. Check the shipping schedule in advance so you're sure to see the bridge in action. Make your Duluth itinerary with Inspirock to find out what to see and where to go.
Aerial Lift Bridge reviews
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The bridge was one of our best experiences of the whole trip. Such a cool thing to see. Worth the wait to watch it go up and down for the big ship to pass under!
The bridge was one of our best experiences of the whole trip. Such a cool thing to see. Worth the wait to watch it go up and down for the big ship to pass under! more »
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Although I’ve been here before I wanted to take my 2 under 2 to see a place their dad took me. Such a unique experience and of course family friendly as long as you keep a good eye out.
Although I’ve been here before I wanted to take my 2 under 2 to see a place their dad took me. Such a unique experience and of course family friendly as long as you keep a good eye out. more »
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What a Fantastic Bridge… The Duluth Bridge is operated 24 hours a day, with skilled people at the helm. The bridge is raised and lowered for iron ore and cement ships, sailboats, and excursion tour boats. In the busy seasons of spring and summer, the bridge averages 26 lifts a day. Decades ago, pedestrians were able to ride on the bridge when it was raised. But, this was outlawed in the early 1980s after a horrible accident that claimed the life of a woman when she was crushed by the steel bridge. The bridge operation is primarily through electric power derived from storage batteries that are charged by generators. If power lines fail, the generators can be operated by a diesel engine. There are two 450 ton concrete block weights on each end, lifted by electronic pulleys to raise and lower the bridge. It is an incredible feat, and a very good reason in itself to come to Duluth to watch the whole operating process.
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Beautiful place to visit, especially at night. In the winter/fall it gets pretty windy so if you’re planning to visit it at this time of the year, make sure you have enough layers to keep you warm and comfortable. It also offers a great view of the lake superior.
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