Veterans Memorial Bridge

The Veterans Memorial Bridge has so much historical significance and the streetcar level of the bridge is a hidden treasure. Experience the original streetcar stations, tracks, unique views of the Cuyahoga River, Lake Erie and other nearby bridges. Construction began in June 1912 and opened November 1917. The Veterans Memorial Bridge was celebrated as the world’s largest double-deck, reinforced concrete structure and was a major hub for commuter transportation until the discontinuation of streetcar service in 1954. In 1974, the Veterans Memorial Bridge was listed on the National Register of Historic Places.

Character you may meet along the tour: John Donahue or Streetcar Conductor

Third Fridays each month, extend your experience beyond the bridge with a special post-tour gathering at the historic Flat Iron Café. This optional, ticketed add-on can be selected during your bridge tour registration. Guests will enjoy lunch while diving deeper into Cleveland’s riverfront story through a lively presentation on bridges and commerce along the Cuyahoga River. Discover how these crossings shaped the city’s growth, connected industries, and transformed the waterfront into the dynamic corridor we know today. It’s the perfect way to continue the conversation, relax, and experience another layer of Cleveland’s history.

UNIQUE REQUIREMENTS AND NOTES FOR THIS SPECIAL TOUR:

• Tours are by reservation only and require a signed release form. A link to the digital release form will be sent in reservation confirming email.

• Meet at bridge entrance located at 1007 W Superior, Cleveland OH 44113

• WALK-UPS: Unlike other Take a Hike tours, this tour requires advance reservation and space is limited. Walk-ups can be accommodated on a first-come, first-serve basis ONLY upon a scheduled reservation cancellation or no shows.

• Please arrive at least 10 minutes before departure time as your reserved space will be voided and given to any walk-up guests beginning 5 minutes before the tour.

• The streetcar level is clean, safe and very old. The ¾ mile length has remnants of track, subway lanes and uneven pavement so it’s recommended to wear closed toe, comfortable shoes. The route is also wheelchair and stroller accessible.

• The tours will be held rain or shine, it is a covered space.

• Note there are NO public restrooms at or around the bridge.

• This is a one-way tour exiting at W25th Street. Upon completion of the tour, guests can walk back along the upper level with vast views of some points of interest highlighted on the tour.

• Tours offered Fridays from June through September, with registration released on a rolling monthly basis. Beginning May 1st, guests can reserve spots for June tours, with each subsequent month opening in advance.