Bob Kerrey Pedestrian Bridge – Breathtaking Views, Trails & Photo Spots
Enjoy 3,000 feet of river views, walking trails, and LED lights at night. A must-see for families, tourists, and fitness lovers in Omaha.
Jul 12, 202523 Shares3.3K Views
📍 Location & General Overview
The Bob Kerrey Pedestrian Bridge is located in downtown Omaha, Nebraska, and stretches across the Missouri Riverto Council Bluffs, Iowa. It is a pedestrian-only bridge, which means it is built specifically for walking, biking, running, and wheelchair use. The bridge officially opened to the public on September 28, 2008, and quickly became a local landmark.
🏗 Design & Structure
This bridge is built in an S-shaped designand uses a cable-stayed systemsupported by two tall towers that are about 200 feet high. The bridge is around 3,000 feet longand 15 feet wide, offering plenty of space for walkers, cyclists, and strollers. Its curved shape and open design provide wide, scenic views of the river and city skylines.
🌉 Visitor Experience
One of the most popular features of the bridge is the state line marker, where visitors can stand with one foot in Nebraska and the other in Iowa. This unique spot is a favorite for photos. Along the walk, you can enjoy views of the Missouri River, Omaha's downtown, and green spaces on both sides. The bridge is quiet, clean, and perfect for families, joggers, and tourists looking for a free outdoor activity.
💡 Lighting At Night
The bridge lights up beautifully at night. It has LED lighting systemsinstalled along the cables and towers. These lights change colors and are often programmed to match holidays, local events, or awareness campaigns. The glow of the bridge after sunset creates a peaceful and colorful atmosphere that makes night visits special.
🛤 Connected Trails & Parks
The bridge connects to over 150 miles of walking and biking trailson both the Nebraska and Iowa sides. On the Omaha side, it leads to Lewis & Clark Landingand Heartland of America Park. On the Iowa side, it connects to Tom Hanafan River’s Edge Park, which includes open lawns, a playground, and an outdoor amphitheater. These trails and parks are great for exercise, sightseeing, and spending time outdoors.
🧭 History & Naming
The bridge is named after Bob Kerrey, a former Nebraska governor and U.S. senator who helped secure federal funding for the project. The full cost of building the bridge was about $22 million. It was part of a larger plan to clean up and improve Omaha’s riverfront area, which used to be filled with old factories and empty lots. Today, the bridge stands as a symbol of modern design and city growth.
🧩 Baby Bob Extension
In March 2025, a new pedestrian extension called “Baby Bob”was completed. It connects the main bridge to North Downtown Omaha, making it easier for people to walk to places like Charles Schwab Field, CHI Health Center, and nearby hotels and restaurants. This smaller bridge makes the area more walkable and safe for pedestrians.
🎖 Awards & Recognition
The Bob Kerrey Pedestrian Bridge has received national praise for its architecture and engineering. It’s often listed among the top pedestrian bridges in the U.S. and is a favorite spot for both locals and visitors. Its combination of beauty, function, and connection to nature makes it a standout feature of the Omaha-Council Bluffs area.
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