Nashville, Tennessee, has no shortage of famed landmarks. Popular music, American history, and architecture all have a place in this beloved city. The Pedestrian Bridge in Nashville (known formally as the John Seigenthaler Pedestrian Bridge) combines all three of these intriguing aspects! Visiting this iconic piece of Nashville’s history is a must when in town. Here’s everything you need to know about it!
Before packing your bags and heading to Music City, know that the Pedestrian Bridge in Nashville is just the beginning of what you’ll discover. This bucket-list American city features plenty more architectural wonders, green spaces, and best-kept secrets. For a complete list of our favorite activities and attractions, download our free Nashville Travel Guide! It has helped so many visitors plan the perfect urban getaway, so get a copy today.
Everything You Need to Know About the Pedestrian Bridge in Nashville
History of the Bridge
Known by many names including the Cumberland River Pedestrian Bridge, this Nashville icon boasts an interesting past. Before becoming one of the most famous bridges in Nashville, the Pedestrian Bridge began as the Sparkman Street Bridge in 1909. The structure was originally built one block south of Broadway and connected Sparkman Street and Shelby Avenue. It was the first of its kind to include arched trusses made of concrete. After only 25 years of use, however, the material proved inadequate and the bridge was repaired. The weathered bridge was repaired yet again in the 1960s.
After a long history of needing repairs, Tennessee state inspectors declared in 1992 that the bridge was in too poor a condition for vehicular traffic. It was slated for demolition, but Nashville natives rallied behind what they knew as an important symbol of the city’s past. The structure thus became the John Seigenthaler Pedestrian Bridge and was refurbished for its new use. Today, the bridge features ramps, elevators, a bike path, a dramatic lighting system, and spectacular views of the Music City skyline. There’s even a public park at the eastern terminus!
What to Know Before Visiting
If you’re looking for the best view of Nashville’s skyline, be sure to pay a visit to this amazing edifice! The Nashville Pedestrian Bridge does not offer parking, but the Nissan Stadium’s spacious lots aren’t far away. Park downtown, then traverse the 3,150-foot long bridge into East Nashville! The best part? There’s absolutely no car needed to enjoy the epic views and accessibility of this attraction. Taking a stroll here is also one of the best free things to do in Nashville!
If you need an extra incentive to come to Nashville to see this marvel, celebrity country artists like Dolly Parton, Big & Rich, and Emerson Drive have filmed music videos here. You might even see a Nashville Pedestrian Bridge wedding taking place when you visit!
Stay in a Vacation Rental Near the Pedestrian Bridge in Nashville!
Seeing all of the best Music City sights is easy when you stay in a private loft in the heart of the city! Playlist Properties accommodations are located in downtown Nashville, East Nashville, and several other nearby neighborhoods. These top-of-the-line homes feature chic, urban furnishings and premium amenities like fully stocked kitchens, rooftop patios, and much more. Additionally, our personable staff is happy to help you discover even more excellent things to do in Nashville.
If you’re excited to plan a trip to see all of Nashville’s most historic and breathtaking attractions, you can get started by checking our availability today! Simply choose your perfect home-away-from-home and start looking forward to the trip of a lifetime. See you soon!