Designed by Frank Gehry, the BP Pedestrian Bridge is a winding stainless-steel walkway over Columbus Drive in Chicago. It links Millennium Park with Maggie Daley Park, giving you an elevated view of the skyline, Grant Park and Lake Michigan along the way. Its reflective metal panels catch the changing light, and the curving route makes the crossing an architectural stop in its own right. The bridge is wheelchair-friendly and free to cross, so you can use it as a direct route between the parks or pause for photos.
A bridge between two parks
The BP Pedestrian Bridge crosses Columbus Drive, linking Millennium Park with Maggie Daley Park. The route continues toward Chicago’s lakefront, with views that include Grant Park and Lake Michigan. It is both a practical way to move between the parks and a place to pause above the traffic.
Frank Gehry’s curving design
Frank Gehry designed the bridge, which was completed in 2004. Its winding path is clad in stainless-steel panels that slope alongside the walkway. The reflective surfaces pick up the sky and cast shifting patterns beneath the city skyline, giving the crossing a distinctive look from both the path and below.
Views along the crossing
As you walk, look back toward the high-rises and across the surrounding parks. The bridge is a useful photo stop, especially near sunset, when sunlight can appear between the buildings and glint across the metal. Its changing curves also offer different angles for photographs rather than one fixed viewpoint.
Continuing into Maggie Daley Park
At the far end, the bridge brings you into Maggie Daley Park. From there, you can continue exploring the park or return to Millennium Park across the same elevated route. The bridge is wheelchair-friendly and free to cross. Take care on the wooden walking surface when it is wet or icy.
FAQ
Is the BP Pedestrian Bridge free?
Yes. You can cross the bridge for free.
Which parks does the bridge connect?
It links Millennium Park and Maggie Daley Park across Columbus Drive.
Is the BP Pedestrian Bridge wheelchair accessible?
Yes. The bridge provides a wheelchair-friendly crossing.
When is a good time to visit?
Sunset is a good time for photographs, when sunlight can show between the buildings and reflect off the steel panels.
