"A third world country in a Gucci belt" - the cities on either side of this bridge.
It's sometimes a nice walk until you inevitability reach the KY side and are immediately ripped from a scenic walk by either religious extremists or some random advertising. You didn't think you'd be able to just enjoy being outside, did you? LOL. It's Louisville! I assume it takes money to advertise there, though where that money is going I haven't a clue. 1)In warmer months there's often obnoxious young adults & kids running around. So no spending on 'security', even with the incredibly high rate of gun violence in Louisville. 2)In warmer months the trash on both sides is overflowing from the bins.3)The playground is NOT maintained; a hook is missing from the moving bridge, there are several loose planks, merry-go-round is missing several bolts, slides are cracked or missing chunks. 4)No pets allowed on the bridge due to no poo clean up.
IN at least there's never someone bombarding you with opinions. The eateries are MUCH better than the Louisville side, too. The park is smaller and less TO maintain but still has issues. The disability swing has no straps to secure someone with mobility issues, an entire round swing is gone, a chain is missing from an item meant to be secured to the ground.
If you search "prison toilet" you'll know what the toilets are like on both sides.
Now, this isn't some abhorrent place. For sure support the local venues and visit if you're in the immediate area. But manage your expectations. Both sides also have a housing problem and the drug epidemic has effected Sourthern IN considerably. Louisville absolutely has a problem with gun violence and someone was shot and killed near the bridge on the KY side somewhat recently. There's a lot of nicer places where you can actually enjoy being present out in the world.. without worrying over safety & being subjected to extremists &...
Read moreThe Big Four Bridge crosses the Ohio River connecting Waterfront Park in Louisville, Kentucky, to Jeffersonville, Indiana. The bridge takes its name from the defunct Cleveland, Cincinnati, Chicago and St. Louis Railway, which was nicknamed the Big Four Railroad. The six-span truss bridge was constructed in 1895 as a railroad bridge, first providing rail access for freight and passengers traveling between Louisville and Southern Indiana. The bridge operated until 1969 when it was decommissioned, and the ramps leading up to the bridge on both sides were removed several years later. The Louisville Waterfront Master Plan, developed in the early 1990s, included the Big Four Bridge as a pedestrian bridge. Louisville built and opened an eliptical ramp on their side in 2013, providing access to the bridge for pedestrians and bicycles. An average of 1.5 million pedestrians and bicycles cross the bridge each year. Jeffersonvile, Indiana, built their ramp In 2014, making it possible to walk from Waterfront Park over the Ohio River to visit businesses, including restaurants, on the Indiana side. The two-mile round trip journey offers breathtaking views of the Ohio River, Louisville, and Waterfront Park. You can stop anywhere along the bridge to take in the views, and there are frequent benches along the way to...
Read moreThe Big Four Bridge is truly one of Louisville’s most iconic landmarks and a must-visit spot for anyone exploring the downtown area. Originally built in 1895 as a railroad bridge, it has been beautifully transformed into a pedestrian and bicycle pathway that connects Louisville, Kentucky to Jeffersonville, Indiana. Spanning about 2,525 feet over the Ohio River, the bridge offers stunning panoramic views of the water, skyline, and passing barges.
The LED lights that illuminate the bridge each night make it an especially magical place to visit after sunset. It’s perfect for walking, jogging, or cycling, and the smooth ramps on both ends make it accessible for all ages. Despite some older safety concerns, there’s now excellent police presence on both sides, making it a very safe and family-friendly attraction.
On the Louisville side, there’s an amazing playground and splash area for kids (all free), along with clean restrooms. On the Indiana side, you’ll find several great restaurants—The Parlour is a must-try for pizza and iced tea—and even an ice cream shop nearby. Free parking, scenic views, and a peaceful atmosphere make this bridge an unforgettable experience. Highly recommended for families, couples, and solo...
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