Whether you find the fact that wooden planks are the only thing separating you from the watery depths below exhilarating or terrifying, this suspension bridge in Waco is worth a visit. Are your palms sweating yet? If not, they will be after seeing these pictures.
This bridge isn’t for the faint of heart. It hangs over the Brazos River and spans 475 feet.
Flickr/cmh2315fl
Opened in 1870, it was the first major suspension bridge in Texas. Waco was located on the iconic Chisholm Trail, and businessmen knew a bridge was necessary to support growing commerce.
Flickr/texascollectionbaylor
In 1913, reconstruction took place, including improving the quality of the steel and adding trusses to accommodate heavier loads.
Flickr/texascollectionbaylor
Up until 1971, the bridge was open to vehicle and cattle traffic as well as pedestrian. Today, it’s open to foot traffic only and is extremely safe to cross.
Flickr/diveofficer
The bridge serves as a central hub of sorts where people gather for special events such as July 4 fireworks.
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It separates two parks: Indian Spring Park on the southwest side of the river and Doris D. Miller on the northeast side.
TripAdvisor/Robert G
Indian Spring Park is actually the origin of Waco - the Huaco Indians settled near an icy cold spring on the riverbank.
TripAdvisor/scoutdreams
Although the thought of crossing a bridge with only wooden planks separating you from the water below might be daunting, I wouldn’t knock it ’till you try it. Families love to explore the bridge and spend the rest of the day at the park.
TripAdvisor/EjamerzZ
If you want a mild thrill and a major dose of history, check out the Waco Suspension Bridge sometime. It’s worth the sweaty palms, I promise.
TripAdvisor/Dorothy L
The closest address to the bridge is 400 Austin Ave, Waco, Texas 76704, which is Doris D. Miller Park.
Flickr/cmh2315fl
Flickr/texascollectionbaylor
Flickr/diveofficer
Flickr/g_hardyy
TripAdvisor/Robert G
TripAdvisor/scoutdreams
TripAdvisor/EjamerzZ
TripAdvisor/Dorothy L
Have you ever been to the Waco Suspension Bridge? Are there any other heart-stopping swinging bridges in Texas?
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