Photos of Old Chain of Rocks Bridge in St. Louis, Missouri
Know Before You Go
To make the most of your visit to Old Chain of Rocks Bridge in St. Louis, Missouri, here are some things to know before you go.
Where should you park to visit Old Chain of Rocks Bridge?
Previously it was recommended to park on the Illinois side of the bridge as that parking lot has security cameras while the Missouri side reportedly was susceptible to car break-ins. Find the parking lot at 4205-4207 Chain of Rocks Rd, Granite City, IL 62040 or enter Old Chain of Rocks Bridge Parking into your GPS.
However, developments have been made on the Missouri side at the new Chain of Rocks Park (10820 Riverview Dr, St. Louis, MO 63137) that now has an updated parking lot.
What are the hours and cost?
There is no admission fee. Access is generally daily during daylight from early morning until sunset). The bridge is open for walking and biking daily at 9:00am, it closes 30 minutes after sunset.
What should you look for when crossing the bridge?
Old Chain of Rocks Bridge spans roughly 1 mile long path over the river, with one mid-span bend that gives the bridge its character.
Great photo opportunities include the wide river views, the St. Louis skyline in the distance, historic signage, original pavement, and the bridge’s steel-truss architecture. There are some fun photo ops to see as you cross the bridge, look for benches, signs, and more.
Also look for the Route 66 Experience Hub on the Illinois side to learn more about the Old Chain of Rocks Bridge and other bridges in the area.
Can you drive across the Old Chain of Rocks Bridge?
No, the bridge is closed to general motor vehicle traffic and is open only to pedestrians and bicyclists as part of its use along the Mississippi Greenway.
However, there are occasional special-events, like the Route 66 Car Show, during which a limited number of vehicles (typically classic cars or pre-approved participants) may be permitted under strict permit conditions.
What is Chain of Rocks Park on the Missouri side of the Old Chain of Rocks Bridge?
Chain of Rocks Park is a newly redeveloped green space on the Missouri side of the historic Old Chain of Rocks Bridge in St. Louis. Opened in 2024, the park serves as a trailhead for the Mississippi Greenway and provides improved access to the bridge, along with new amenities such as paved parking, walking paths, a pavilion, native landscaping, and an event lawn. It’s designed to give visitors a safe, scenic place to start their walk or bike ride across the bridge and to enjoy river views, the bridge’s famous mid-span bend, and a bit of Route 66 history in a refreshed, family-friendly setting.
Is this a popular Route 66 attraction?
Yes! With it’s unique architecture, free admission, photo ops, history, and new park, Old Chain of Rocks Bridge is a popular Route 66 attraction for road trippers, travelers, and locals. It is one of our picks for 66 Most Instagrammable Spots on Route 66 and 66 Route 66 Attractions Worth Pulling Over For.
Where to Stay Near Old Chain of Rocks Bridge
Complete your travel itinerary and get a good night’s rest on your road trip with a stay at one of these St. Louis hotels near Route 66.
St. Louis Union Station Hotel
An icon since 1894, the St. Louis Union Station is a vintage gem wrapped in elegant archways and décor. Admire the famous Grand Hall, experience all the on-site attractions, enjoy 3D light shows and a 100-foot waterfall, and access the fitness center and seasonal outdoor pool. All just a mile from downtown St. Louis and a short drive to Old Chain of Rocks Bridge.
Drury Plaza Hotel St. Louis at The Arch
If you want to find a hotel close to the Gateway Arch, you can’t do any better than the Drury Plaza Hotel St. Louis at The Arch. This St. Louis hotel is located less than a five-minute walk to the Gateway Arch and Busch Stadium, at the heart of downtown. Enjoy 37-inch flat-screen TVs, free Wi-Fi, an indoor pool and hot tub, and a free hot breakfast.
Magnolia Hotel St. Louis
Listed on the National Historic Register, Magnolia St. Louis was originally built in 1924 as the Mayfair Hotel by Charles Heiss, with a hospitality and sophistication in mind. This hotel is known as the birthplace of “chocolates on a pillow,” a tradition influenced by actor Cary Grant’s tryst within his suite.
Related Tours
Enhance your visit to the St. Louis area with a tour! Whether you love family-friendly adventures, landmarks, or nature there are plenty of options for everyone.
Attractions Near Old Chain of Rocks Bridge on Route 66
Chain of Rocks Route 66 Experience Hub in Madison, Illinois
World’s Largest Amoco Sign in St. Louis, Missouri
You have to check out the Old Chain of Rocks Bridge! Walking across the bridge is a good excuse to stretch your legs and there are plenty of things to see along the walk: fun signs, nice views, and that iconic bend. Definitly save some time for this on your travel itinerary!