Burnside Bridge

Burnside Bridge Visiting Hours, Tickets, and Portland Historical Sites Guide

Date: 15/06/2025

Introduction to Burnside Bridge

The Burnside Bridge is a quintessential symbol of Portland, Oregon, standing as a testament to the city’s historical evolution, architectural innovation, and dynamic urban culture. Spanning the Willamette River at the heart of the city, this iconic structure not only provides a vital transportation link but also anchors a vibrant corridor of culture, history, and community events. From its distinctive Italian Renaissance towers to its pioneering bascule design, the Burnside Bridge reflects the ambition and spirit that have shaped Portland into the “Bridge City.” This comprehensive guide offers practical visiting advice, historical context, architectural highlights, and tips on exploring nearby attractions, ensuring a rich and rewarding experience for every visitor.

For additional details and travel resources, consult Travel Portland, Multnomah County’s Burnside Bridge page, and local insights from City Cast Portland.

Propeller-driven steamship America docked at Portland Oregon circa 1924

Pedestrians walking on the historic Burnside Bridge in Portland, Oregon in 1907

Burnside Bridge with Portland skyline and Interstate 5 freeway in 1963

Close-up of Burnside Bridge machinery showing industrial gears and mechanical components

HMCS Edmonton naval ship passing through the Burnside Bridge on the Willamette River during Portland Rose Festival Fleet Week 2018

Introduction
History and Construction
Architectural Features and Innovations
Visiting Hours and Accessibility
Getting to Burnside Bridge
Nearby Attractions & Things to Do
Events and Festivals
Safety, Accessibility & Visitor Tips
FAQs
Conclusion & Call to Action
References

History and Construction

The Burnside Bridge’s story began in 1894 with the opening of a swing-span truss bridge, constructed to accommodate Portland’s rapid growth and increased need for east-west connectivity. Named after Dan Wyman Burnside, a key figure in the city’s commercial development, the original bridge was eventually replaced by the current structure in 1926. The new bridge was part of a broader infrastructure initiative during the 1920s, which included the construction of the Ross Island and Sellwood bridges through a $4.5 million bond measure.

Designed by Ira G. Hedrick and Robert E. Kremers, with the bascule (drawbridge) mechanism engineered by Joseph Strauss (also known for the Golden Gate Bridge), the Burnside Bridge introduced innovative features for its time. Notably, it was one of the first U.S. bascule bridges to use a concrete deck and massive 1,900-ton counterweights, balancing technological advancement with enduring style. Its construction was not without controversy, as a political scandal involving the Ku Klux Klan led to the recall of several county commissioners, ultimately diminishing the Klan’s influence locally. (Travel Portland), (City Cast Portland)

Architectural Features and Innovations

The Burnside Bridge is celebrated for its blend of form and function. The Italian Renaissance towers exemplify the City Beautiful movement, introducing elegance and civic pride to Portland’s infrastructure. The bridge’s double-leaf, Strauss-type bascule design allows it to lift for river traffic, ensuring the Willamette River remains navigable for commercial and recreational vessels. Spanning approximately 2,308 feet (703 meters) with a central main span of 251 feet (77 meters), the bridge’s robust construction and architectural flourishes make it a standout among Portland’s numerous crossings.

Since 2012, the Burnside Bridge has been listed on the National Register of Historic Places. It underwent a seismic retrofit in 2002 to enhance earthquake resilience, and a major replacement project is scheduled to begin in 2028, aiming for a new, earthquake-ready structure by 2031. (Multnomah County’s Burnside Bridge page), (City Cast Portland)

Visiting Hours and Accessibility

Open 24/7: The Burnside Bridge is a public thoroughfare, accessible to pedestrians, cyclists, and vehicles at all hours. There are no entrance fees or tickets required to cross or visit the bridge.
Accessibility: The bridge features wide, wheelchair-accessible sidewalks and dedicated bike lanes. Ramps and smooth concrete surfaces ensure ease of access for all visitors.
Safety: For the best experience, visit during daylight hours for optimal visibility and safety. The bridge is generally safe, but as with any urban area, remain aware of your surroundings, especially at night. (Travel Portland), (Oregon Essential)

Getting to Burnside Bridge

Public Transportation

The bridge is centrally located and well-served by Portland’s public transit:

MAX Light Rail: Stations at Old Town/Chinatown and Skidmore Fountain are within easy walking distance.
TriMet Buses: Multiple routes cross or stop near the bridge.
Streetcar: The Portland Streetcar runs nearby, providing access to both the west and east sides of the city.

All public transit options are wheelchair-accessible. (Travel Portland)

By Car and Parking

Street parking is available in the downtown area, but may be limited during peak hours and events. Use the Parking Kitty app for payment and spot availability. Free parking is available for vehicles with valid disability placards. (TripHobo)

By Bike or On Foot

Portland is renowned for its bike-friendly infrastructure. The bridge features dedicated bike lanes and sees thousands of pedestrian and cyclist crossings each day. Bike rentals and guided bike tours are widely available. (TripHobo)

Nearby Attractions & Things to Do

Burnside Skatepark: A world-famous, DIY skatepark beneath the east end of the bridge, renowned for its graffiti art and as a symbol of Portland’s creative spirit.
Portland Saturday Market: Located beneath the west side of the bridge, this is the largest arts-and-crafts fair in the U.S., open weekends from March to December.
Tom McCall Waterfront Park: Adjacent to the bridge, this riverside park is perfect for festivals, picnics, or a scenic stroll.
White Stag Sign: The iconic neon “Portland Oregon” sign is visible from the bridge’s west side—a must for photos.
Old Town Chinatown: Explore historic architecture, diverse dining, and vibrant nightlife just steps from the bridge.
Powell’s City of Books: The world’s largest independent bookstore, a short walk from the bridge.

For more, explore the Portland Visitor Center for maps and recommendations.

Events and Festivals

Burnside Bridge’s location makes it a hub for city events, including:

Portland Rose Festival: Spanning late May to early June, featuring parades, concerts, and riverfront festivities.
Waterfront Blues Festival: Early July, with live music and food vendors along the river.
Pedalpalooza: A city-wide cycling festival with themed rides, many crossing Burnside Bridge.

Arrive early for events and check schedules for bridge closures or detours during major festivities. (Woke Waves), (Powered by Tofu)

Safety, Accessibility & Visitor Tips

Weather: Portland’s weather is unpredictable—bring a rain jacket or umbrella, even in summer.
Crossing Safely: Use marked sidewalks and bike lanes; cross only at designated crosswalks.
Construction Notices: Major seismic upgrades are planned for 2028–2031. Check for detours or restricted access before visiting. (Portland Bureau of Transportation)
Restrooms: Facilities are available at Tom McCall Waterfront Park and the Saturday Market during open hours.
Accessibility Resources: Consult Wheel the World and the City of Portland Disability Program for detailed accessibility information.

FAQs

Q: What are the Burnside Bridge visiting hours?
A: The bridge is open 24/7 to pedestrians, cyclists, and vehicles.

Q: Is there a fee or ticket required to visit?
A: No, access is free for all.

Q: Is the bridge wheelchair accessible?
A: Yes, sidewalks and ramps are fully accessible.

Q: Are there guided tours?
A: Many walking and biking tours include Burnside Bridge as a highlight.

Q: Will the bridge be closed for repairs?
A: A major seismic upgrade is planned for 2028–2031, which may result in temporary closures.

Conclusion & Call to Action

The Burnside Bridge is much more than a simple river crossing—it’s a living symbol of Portland’s history, engineering innovation, and vibrant community spirit. With its mix of historical significance, architectural elegance, and proximity to some of the city’s best attractions, the bridge is a must-visit for any traveler to Portland. Enjoy free, round-the-clock access, inclusive amenities, and endless opportunities for exploration and discovery.

Plan your visit today! For audio guides and additional resources, download the Audiala app and follow us on social media for updates on Portland’s top sights and current events.