Lafayette Bridge 🇺🇸

When you visit downtown Saint Paul, Minnesota, you can see the impressive Lafayette Bridge, a key crossing that carries U.S. Route 52 on the Lafayette Freeway across the mighty Mississippi River. As one of the longest Mississippi River bridges in the Twin Cities, this landmark spans a dynamic landscape that includes northern railroad yards, the river itself, and industrial areas to the south.

The current structure consists of two modern bridges (northbound and southbound) completed in 2015 by Lunda Construction Company to replace an aging 1968 bridge. If you are exploring the city on foot or by bike, you can take advantage of the pedestrian and bicycle crossing built right into the design over the river. The surrounding project area stretches along Highway 52 from East Seventh Street to just south of Plato Boulevard, also encompassing upgraded bridges over I-94 and Plato Boulevard.

Rich in engineering history, the location was previously home to a 1905 experimental bridge designed by C.A.P. Turner featuring flat slabs on mushroom-capped columns. Today, it serves as a vital, modernized gateway for local traffic and outdoor enthusiasts alike.

What to see at Lafayette Bridge

• Crosses the Mississippi River, railroad yards, and industrial areas
• Features a dedicated pedestrian and bicycle crossing over the river
• One of the longest Mississippi River bridges in the Twin Cities
• Carries U.S. Route 52 across northbound and southbound spans

Visiting tips

Take advantage of the pedestrian and bicycle crossing to enjoy views over the Mississippi River.

How long: 30-60 minutes · Best time: Daytime

How to get there & what’s nearby

Lafayette Bridge is easy to reach on Saint Paul’s public transport, and pairs naturally with Minnesota State Capitol and Cathedral of Saint Paul, National Shrine of the Apostle Paul. For where to stay, the weather and full itineraries, see our Saint Paul travel guide.