Interstate Bridge Portland: Visiting Hours, Tickets, and Historical Site Guide

Date: 04/07/2025

Introduction: The Interstate Bridge’s Legacy and Modern Role

The Interstate Bridge is an iconic structure spanning the Columbia River, connecting Portland, Oregon, and Vancouver, Washington. Since its original opening in 1917 and the addition of a second span in 1958, this bridge has been a crucial artery for the Pacific Northwest—facilitating commerce, commuting, and cultural exchange between two thriving cities. With over 130,000 vehicles crossing daily, the bridge is a testament to the region’s growth and a symbol of unity and resilience.

Yet, as traffic volumes soar and the bridge ages, modernization has become essential. The ongoing Interstate Bridge Replacement Project seeks to deliver a seismically resilient, multimodal crossing with expanded capacity and dedicated transit, cycling, and pedestrian routes. This guide provides detailed information for visitors and commuters, including access tips, historical context, best viewing areas, construction updates, and travel advice to help you make the most of your experience.

For real-time updates and further details, consult the Interstate Bridge Replacement Program website, the Oregon Department of Transportation, The Reflector, and OPB.

Table of Contents

Historical Background and Development

The Interstate Bridge was inaugurated in 1917 as the first fixed crossing over the Columbia River between Oregon and Washington. Its original steel vertical-lift span was a marvel of early 20th-century engineering. In response to growing traffic, a second span was added in 1958, integrating the bridge into the then-new Interstate 5—now the West Coast’s primary north-south corridor (Oregon History Project).

Since then, the bridge has enabled a dramatic increase in cross-state mobility and commerce. Daily traffic grew from 33,000 vehicles in the 1960s to over 130,000 in recent years (Washington State Standard).


Visiting the Interstate Bridge: Hours, Access, and Tips

Visiting Hours and Ticket Information

  • Open 24/7: The bridge is available at all hours for vehicles, pedestrians, and cyclists.
  • No Tickets Required: Crossing is free and does not require advance booking or entry passes.
  • Events & Guided Tours: Special events, such as bridge-focused tours, are sometimes organized by local transportation departments. Check their websites for updates.

Getting There and Accessibility

  • By Car: Access via Interstate 5 from either downtown Portland or Vancouver. Parking is available at nearby locations such as Tom McCall Waterfront Park (Portland) and Esther Short Park (Vancouver).
  • By Bike/On Foot: The bridge features narrow sidewalks adjacent to traffic. Cyclists and pedestrians should exercise caution, especially during peak hours or bridge lift operations.
  • Public Transit: TriMet (Portland) and C-TRAN (Vancouver) run bus routes across the bridge. A future light rail extension is planned as part of the replacement project (Wikipedia, Interstate Bridge Project).
  • Accessibility: The sidewalks are not ADA-compliant; those with mobility impairments may find crossing challenging.

Travel Tips

  • Avoid Rush Hours: Peak congestion occurs 6:30–9:30 a.m. and 3:00–7:00 p.m. on weekdays.
  • Bridge Lifts: The bridge’s lift span can delay traffic for up to 20 minutes. For real-time lift schedules, check the Oregon Department of Transportation.
  • Safety: Remain alert on narrow sidewalks; wear visible clothing and consider alternative crossings if you require fully accessible facilities.

Best Photographic Spots

Capture the bridge’s striking steelwork, river vistas, and city skylines from these vantage points:

  • Tom McCall Waterfront Park (Portland): Sweeping river and skyline views.
  • Vancouver Waterfront Park: Close-ups of the bridge and river traffic, especially at sunset.
  • Hayden Island: Unique mid-river perspectives.
  • Chalk Street Pier: Ideal for sunrise and sunset photography.

For inspiration, search “Interstate Bridge Portland photos” or “best spots for Interstate Bridge photography.”


Nearby Attractions and Events

While the bridge itself is not a venue, its approaches offer access to some of the region’s most dynamic attractions:

  • Portland’s Old Town Chinatown: Historic architecture, dining, and shopping.
  • Esther Short Park (Vancouver): Community events and green space.
  • Columbia River Waterfront Trail: Ideal for walking, biking, and river views.
  • Hayden Island: Shopping, dining, and marina access.
  • Columbia River Gorge: Waterfalls and hiking, a short drive east (Going.com).

Major Events

  • Waterfront Blues Festival & Pride Festival: Held at Tom McCall Waterfront Park (Travel Portland).
  • Cathedral Park Jazz Festival: Major free jazz event nearby.
  • Bridge Pedal: Annual cycling event sometimes including the Interstate Bridge (Bridge Pedal).

Economic and Regional Importance

The Interstate Bridge is indispensable for regional commuters and national freight. Over $132 million in goods cross daily, representing a significant share of Oregon and Washington’s economic output (Hoodline; Interstate Bridge Replacement Program FAQ).


Structural & Safety Challenges

Despite its historical importance, the bridge’s narrow lanes, lack of safety shoulders, and seismic vulnerability pose safety concerns (Washington State Standard). The current structure is considered functionally obsolete and unlikely to withstand a major earthquake. Modernization is not only necessary for safety, but also to support increased multimodal transportation.


The Replacement Project: Vision and Timeline

Project Scope

  • Location: Two new bridges west of current spans.
  • Capacity: Three through lanes each way, wider lanes (12 ft), safety shoulders, and auxiliary lanes.
  • Multimodal Features: 1.9-mile light rail extension, improved pedestrian/cyclist facilities.
  • Seismic Resilience: Built to modern earthquake standards.
  • Urban Connectivity: Vancouver’s I-5 “lid” will create green space and a public transit hub (OPB).

Funding

  • Estimated Cost: $5–$7.5 billion.
  • Secured Funding: $1.5 billion federal grant, $600 million Mega Grant, $1 billion each from Oregon and Washington; additional funds via tolling and federal transit programs (Hoodline).

Timeline

  • 2024: Draft Supplemental Environmental Impact Statement (SEIS) released.
  • 2025: SEIS finalized.
  • 2026: Pre-construction begins.
  • 2027: In-water construction commences.
  • 2032: Anticipated completion (OPB).

Traffic and Tolling

  • Tolls: Variable-rate tolling may begin by 2026, with discounts for low-income drivers under consideration (KATU News).
  • Traffic Impacts: Expect lane closures and detours during construction; monitor Interstate Bridge Project for updates.

Social, Environmental, and Community Considerations


Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Q: Are there visiting hours or tickets required?
A: No, the bridge is open 24/7 to vehicles, cyclists, and pedestrians; no tickets are needed.

Q: Is the bridge accessible for pedestrians and cyclists?
A: Yes, but sidewalks are narrow and not ADA-compliant; exercise caution.

Q: Will there be tolls on the new bridge?
A: Yes, variable-rate tolling is planned; details will be finalized by a bi-state committee.

Q: How can I avoid traffic delays?
A: Plan around rush hours, check real-time updates on the Interstate Bridge Project, and consider public transit.

Q: What are the best places for photography?
A: Tom McCall Waterfront Park, Vancouver Waterfront, Hayden Island, and Chalk Street Pier.

Q: How will construction affect my visit?
A: Expect detours and closures from 2027; stay updated via official channels.


Key Facts and Figures

  • Opened: 1917 (original), 1958 (second span)
  • Daily Traffic: 130,000–140,000 vehicles
  • Freight Value: Over $132 million daily
  • Replacement Cost: $5–$7.5 billion
  • Project Completion: 2032 (anticipated)
  • Public Engagement: Ongoing (Interstate Bridge Replacement Program)

Conclusion and Resources

The Interstate Bridge remains an enduring symbol of the Pacific Northwest’s connectivity and ambition. While its original spans continue to serve millions, the replacement project promises safer, more efficient travel and greater regional unity for decades to come.

Visitors can still enjoy the bridge’s scenic views and access to waterfront attractions—just be mindful of construction impacts and evolving safety measures. For the latest updates, travel tips, and ways to get involved, visit the Interstate Bridge Replacement Program website, follow local transportation agencies, and download the Audiala app for real-time alerts.



External References


Visit The Most Interesting Places In Portland

5Th Avenue Cinema
5Th Avenue Cinema
|
  Acadia: A New Orleans Bistro
| Acadia: A New Orleans Bistro
Ainu And Native American Power Boards
Ainu And Native American Power Boards
Akadi
Akadi
Alberta Park
Alberta Park
Alphabet Historic District
Alphabet Historic District
Ankeny Square
Ankeny Square
Arbor Lodge Park
Arbor Lodge Park
Arlene Schnitzer Concert Hall
Arlene Schnitzer Concert Hall
Bagdad Theater
Bagdad Theater
Berkeley Park
Berkeley Park
Berrydale Park
Berrydale Park
Bipartisan Cafe
Bipartisan Cafe
Bit House Saloon
Bit House Saloon
Biwa
Biwa
Blackstone Hall
Blackstone Hall
Bloomington Park
Bloomington Park
Bluehour
Bluehour
Bob White Theatre
Bob White Theatre
Brasserie Montmartre
Brasserie Montmartre
Brentwood Park
Brentwood Park
British Overseas Restaurant Corporation
British Overseas Restaurant Corporation
Broadway Bridge
Broadway Bridge
Brushstrokes
Brushstrokes
Burnside Bridge
Burnside Bridge
Bust Of York
Bust Of York
Cadillac Cafe
Cadillac Cafe
Captain William Clark Monument
Captain William Clark Monument
Caruthers Park
Caruthers Park
Cathedral Park
Cathedral Park
|
  Cheryl'S On 12Th
| Cheryl'S On 12Th
Chiles Center
Chiles Center
Chiming Fountain
Chiming Fountain
Chinatown Gateway
Chinatown Gateway
Cinemagic Theater
Cinemagic Theater
Clinton Park
Clinton Park
Coffin Club
Coffin Club
Colonel Summers Park
Colonel Summers Park
Columbia Park
Columbia Park
Coming Of The White Man
Coming Of The White Man
Commodore Hotel
Commodore Hotel
Concordia University Portland
Concordia University Portland
Congregation Neveh Shalom
Congregation Neveh Shalom
Congregation Shaarie Torah
Congregation Shaarie Torah
Consulate Of Mexico, Portland
Consulate Of Mexico, Portland
Couch Park
Couch Park
Council Crest Park
Council Crest Park
Crystal Ballroom
Crystal Ballroom
Crystal Springs Rhododendron Garden
Crystal Springs Rhododendron Garden
Cully Park
Cully Park
Dan And Louis Oyster Bar
Dan And Louis Oyster Bar
Darcelle Xv Plaza
Darcelle Xv Plaza
Darcelle Xv Showplace
Darcelle Xv Showplace
Davenport
Davenport
David Campbell Memorial
David Campbell Memorial
Dawson Park
Dawson Park
Delta Cafe
Delta Cafe
Delta Park
Delta Park
Der Rheinlander
Der Rheinlander
Director Park
Director Park
Dog Bowl
Dog Bowl
Duniway Park
Duniway Park
East Portland Branch, Public Library Of Multnomah County
East Portland Branch, Public Library Of Multnomah County
Eastbank Esplanade
Eastbank Esplanade
Echo Theater
Echo Theater
Ed Benedict Park
Ed Benedict Park
Eem
Eem
Either/Or
Either/Or
|
  Elk Rock Gardens Of The Bishop'S Close
| Elk Rock Gardens Of The Bishop'S Close
Errol Heights Park
Errol Heights Park
|
  Esparza'S
| Esparza'S
Essex Park
Essex Park
Farewell To Orpheus
Farewell To Orpheus
Farragut Park
Farragut Park
Flavel Park
Flavel Park
Forest Park
Forest Park
|
  Frank'S Noodle House
| Frank'S Noodle House
Fremont Bridge
Fremont Bridge
Gabriel Park
Gabriel Park
Gammans Park
Gammans Park
George Himes Park
George Himes Park
George Park
George Park
George Washington
George Washington
Ghost Ship
Ghost Ship
Grant Park
Grant Park
Gypsy Restaurant And Velvet Lounge
Gypsy Restaurant And Velvet Lounge
Harney Park
Harney Park
Hawks Pdx
Hawks Pdx
Hawthorne Bridge
Hawthorne Bridge
Hazeltine Park
Hazeltine Park
Heathman Hotel
Heathman Hotel
Henry Thiele Restaurant
Henry Thiele Restaurant
Holladay Park
Holladay Park
Hollywood Theatre
Hollywood Theatre
Holon
Holon
Horse Brass Pub
Horse Brass Pub
Hoyt Hotel
Hoyt Hotel
|
  Huber'S Restaurant
| Huber'S Restaurant
International Harvester Company Warehouse
International Harvester Company Warehouse
International Rose Test Garden
International Rose Test Garden
Interstate Bridge
Interstate Bridge
Irving Park
Irving Park
Irving Street Kitchen
Irving Street Kitchen
Irvington
Irvington
|
  Jaciva'S Bakery And Chocolatier
| Jaciva'S Bakery And Chocolatier
|
  Jake'S Famous Crawfish
| Jake'S Famous Crawfish
Jamison Square
Jamison Square
Joan Of Arc
Joan Of Arc
Joe Etzel Field
Joe Etzel Field
Johnson Creek Park
Johnson Creek Park
Keller Fountain Park
Keller Fountain Park
Kelley Point Park
Kelley Point Park
Kelly Butte Natural Area
Kelly Butte Natural Area
Kennedy School
Kennedy School
Kenton Park
Kenton Park
Kern Park
Kern Park
|
  Kim Jong Grillin'
| Kim Jong Grillin'
King Albert Hall
King Albert Hall
La Carreta Mexican Restaurant
La Carreta Mexican Restaurant
|
  Ladd'S Addition
| Ladd'S Addition
Lair Hill Park
Lair Hill Park
Laurelhurst Park
Laurelhurst Park
Laurelwood Pub And Brewery
Laurelwood Pub And Brewery
Le Happy
Le Happy
Legacy Emanuel Medical Center
Legacy Emanuel Medical Center
Lents Park
Lents Park
Lincoln Hall
Lincoln Hall
Lloyd Center
Lloyd Center
Lloyd District
Lloyd District
Lone Fir Cemetery
Lone Fir Cemetery
Lovejoy Columns
Lovejoy Columns
Lovejoy Fountain Park
Lovejoy Fountain Park
Loyal B. Stearns Memorial Fountain
Loyal B. Stearns Memorial Fountain
Lutz Tavern
Lutz Tavern
Marquam Nature Park
Marquam Nature Park
Martini Glass Sign
Martini Glass Sign
Mccoy Park
Mccoy Park
Mckenna Park
Mckenna Park
Merchant Hotel
Merchant Hotel
Mill Ends Park
Mill Ends Park
Moda Center
Moda Center
Montavilla Park
Montavilla Park
Morrison Bridge
Morrison Bridge
Mt. Scott Park
Mt. Scott Park
Multnomah University
Multnomah University
National Cash Register Building
National Cash Register Building
Ned Flanders Crossing
Ned Flanders Crossing
Neuberger Hall
Neuberger Hall
Normandale Park
Normandale Park
Northwest Film Center
Northwest Film Center
Nostrana
Nostrana
Nuestra Cocina
Nuestra Cocina
O Cruceiro
O Cruceiro
Oaks Amusement Park
Oaks Amusement Park
Oaks Bottom Wildlife Refuge
Oaks Bottom Wildlife Refuge
Ocean City Seafood Restaurant
Ocean City Seafood Restaurant
Old Town / Chinatown
Old Town / Chinatown
Old Town Pizza
Old Town Pizza
Olive Or Twist
Olive Or Twist
Oregon College Of Oriental Medicine
Oregon College Of Oriental Medicine
Oregon Health & Science University
Oregon Health & Science University
Oregon Historical Society
Oregon Historical Society
Oregon Holocaust Memorial
Oregon Holocaust Memorial
Oregon Museum Of Science And Industry
Oregon Museum Of Science And Industry
Oregon Park
Oregon Park
Oregon Zoo
Oregon Zoo
Oriental Theatre
Oriental Theatre
|
  Otto'S Sausage Kitchen
| Otto'S Sausage Kitchen
Overlook Restaurant
Overlook Restaurant
Pambiche Cocina And Repostería Cubana
Pambiche Cocina And Repostería Cubana
|
  Papi Chulo'S
| Papi Chulo'S
Paris Theatre
Paris Theatre
Parklane Park
Parklane Park
Peace Chant
Peace Chant
Peninsula Park
Peninsula Park
Peter Stott Center
Peter Stott Center
Pettygrove Park
Pettygrove Park
Pier Park
Pier Park
Pioneer Courthouse
Pioneer Courthouse
Pioneer Courthouse Square
Pioneer Courthouse Square
Pioneer Place
Pioneer Place
Pittock Mansion
Pittock Mansion
Por Que No
Por Que No
Portland Art Museum
Portland Art Museum
Portland Building
Portland Building
Portland City Grill
Portland City Grill
Portland Firefighters Park
Portland Firefighters Park
Portland Institute For Contemporary Art
Portland Institute For Contemporary Art
Portland International Airport
Portland International Airport
Portland International Raceway
Portland International Raceway
Portland Japanese Garden
Portland Japanese Garden
Portland State University
Portland State University
Portlandia
Portlandia
|
  Portland'S Centers For The Arts
| Portland'S Centers For The Arts
Powell Park
Powell Park
Produce Row Café
Produce Row Café
Providence Park
Providence Park
Rimsky-Korsakoffee House
Rimsky-Korsakoffee House
Ring Of Time
Ring Of Time
River View Cemetery
River View Cemetery
Rose City Park
Rose City Park
Ross Island Bridge
Ross Island Bridge
Sacajawea And Jean-Baptiste
Sacajawea And Jean-Baptiste
Sacajawea Park
Sacajawea Park
Salmon Street Springs
Salmon Street Springs
Screen Door
Screen Door
Sellwood Park
Sellwood Park
Sellwood Riverfront Park
Sellwood Riverfront Park
Sewallcrest Park
Sewallcrest Park
Shanghai Tunnel Bar
Shanghai Tunnel Bar
Shift Drinks
Shift Drinks
Shriners Hospital For Children
Shriners Hospital For Children
Simon Benson House
Simon Benson House
Skidmore Old Town Historic District
Skidmore Old Town Historic District
South Park Blocks
South Park Blocks
South Waterfront Greenway
South Waterfront Greenway
South Waterfront Park
South Waterfront Park
|
  Spanish–American War Soldier'S Monument
| Spanish–American War Soldier'S Monument
Spanish–American War Veterans Memorial
Spanish–American War Veterans Memorial
Spirit Of 77
Spirit Of 77
St. Helens Court
St. Helens Court
St. Johns Bridge
St. Johns Bridge
St. Johns Park
St. Johns Park
St. Johns Racquet Center
St. Johns Racquet Center
Star Theater
Star Theater
Statue Of Abraham Lincoln
Statue Of Abraham Lincoln
Statue Of Paul Bunyan
Statue Of Paul Bunyan
Stratum
Stratum
Sunnyside School Park
Sunnyside School Park
Swan Island Municipal Airport
Swan Island Municipal Airport
Tanner Springs Park
Tanner Springs Park
Tasty N Alder
Tasty N Alder
Terry Schrunk Plaza
Terry Schrunk Plaza
The Alibi
The Alibi
The Dime Store
The Dime Store
The Dream
The Dream
The Fields Park
The Fields Park
The Oregonian Printing Press Park
The Oregonian Printing Press Park
The Parish
The Parish
The Roxy
The Roxy
The Woodsman Tavern
The Woodsman Tavern
Theodore Roosevelt, Rough Rider
Theodore Roosevelt, Rough Rider
Thor
Thor
Tideman Johnson Natural Area
Tideman Johnson Natural Area
Tikitotmoniki Totems
Tikitotmoniki Totems
Tilikum Crossing, Bridge Of The People
Tilikum Crossing, Bridge Of The People
Tom Mccall Waterfront Park
Tom Mccall Waterfront Park
Toro Bravo
Toro Bravo
Town Club
Town Club
Trenton Park
Trenton Park
Tryon Creek State Natural Area
Tryon Creek State Natural Area
Two Plum Park
Two Plum Park
Union Station
Union Station
Union Station / Northwest 6Th & Hoyt Street
Union Station / Northwest 6Th & Hoyt Street
University Of Portland
University Of Portland
University Of Western States
University Of Western States
Unthank Park
Unthank Park
Urban Hydrology
Urban Hydrology
Urban Plaza
Urban Plaza
Uss Blueback
Uss Blueback
Vault Cocktail Lounge
Vault Cocktail Lounge
Verdell Burdine Rutherford Park
Verdell Burdine Rutherford Park
Veterans Memorial Coliseum
Veterans Memorial Coliseum
Virginia Cafe
Virginia Cafe
Voices Of Remembrance
Voices Of Remembrance
Voodoo Doughnut
Voodoo Doughnut
Walk Of The Heroines
Walk Of The Heroines
Wallace Park
Wallace Park
Warner Pacific University
Warner Pacific University
Wellington Park
Wellington Park
Wells Fargo Center
Wells Fargo Center
Westmoreland Park
Westmoreland Park
White Stag Block
White Stag Block
Wildwood
Wildwood
Willamette National Cemetery
Willamette National Cemetery
Willamette Park
Willamette Park
Wilshire Park
Wilshire Park
Winter Rider No. 2
Winter Rider No. 2
|
  Wong'S King
| Wong'S King
Woodlawn Park
Woodlawn Park
Woodstock Park
Woodstock Park
Yale Union Laundry Building
Yale Union Laundry Building
Yankee Champion
Yankee Champion