As a city along the river, Cincinnati is known for its scenic bridges that span the Ohio River. They add even more visual interest to our already stunning skyline, and of course, provide an easy way to get to Northern Kentucky. One of the most eye-catching bridges that connect Ohio and Kentucky is the Newport Southgate Bridge, more commonly known as the Purple People Bridge. This colorful bridge provides some of the best views of Cincinnati, and it also has an interesting history and a few features that may surprise you.
If you've ever been along the Ohio River, it's difficult to miss the popular Purple People Bridge that connects Cincinnati and Newport.
This historic bridge is now known for its unique color and pedestrian-only traffic, but it actually has a long and interesting history. Known as the Newport Cincinnati Bridge, it first opened all the way back in 1872. With horse and cart paths, and eventually paths for streetcars, it was a vital part of the area's transportation. A portion of the bridge was also used by railroad traffic until 1987 when that portion then began to steadily deteriorate.
With the opening of Newport on the Levee and other attractions in that area, interest in the bridge gained steam and it was placed on the National Register of Historic Places in 2001. It was also then that restoration plans began.
When choosing a color for this now pedestrian bridge, many were considered. But ultimately, purple was chosen because of studies done that show that purple is a good color for a structure such as a bridge. Of course, its brightness has faded over the years, and there are differing opinions on whether it was the right color choice, but you can't deny that it stands out.
The bridge connects Pete Rose Way in Cincinnati to Third Street in Newport and offers some of the best views of the city.
From the bridge, you can see the other bridges that cross the Ohio River, and also many of the riverfront parks that line the Cincinnati side. And of course, you get a good view of Newport in Kentucky. The bridge is also within walking distance of many downtown attractions, making it a popular stop for tourists and locals alike.
One feature of the bridge that you may not have thought about is that you can physically stand in two states at once.
As a pedestrian bridge with the state line clearly marked, you can walk over the Ohio River and then place one foot in Kentucky and one foot in Ohio. While standing in this position, be sure to decide then which state you think is better (likely many will side with Cincinnati's Ohio).
The Purple People Bridge is an eye-catching destination in our city that attracts out-of-towners and locals looking for a unique experience in their city.
If you've never walked across this purple pedestrian bridge, be sure to check it out, admire its history, its unique color, and of course don't forget to take advantage of the rare chance at being two places at once.
The Purple People Bridge is a unique attraction in Cincinnati that allows for beautiful views of our city and the rare chance to stand in two states at once. Have you ever straddled the state line on the Purple People Bridge? Did you know of its past? Let us know in the comments!
For more information on the Purple People Bridge, visit its website here.
And once you reach the Ohio side of the bridge, be sure to check out an incredible riverfront park, featured in an article here.
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