Purple People Bridge

The Purple People Bridge is a pedestrian-only bridge connecting Newport and Cincinnati across the Ohio River using a Pratt truss metal structure. Its distinctive purple color makes it immediately recognizable, and it provides direct access to attractions on both sides of the river.

Originally built in 1872 as Cincinnati's first railroad bridge across the Ohio River, it was later strengthened in 1896 to handle heavier trains. Eventually the structure was repurposed for pedestrian use and painted its now-famous purple color.

The bridge serves as a social meeting place where residents and visitors gather for community events throughout the year. Walking across it has become part of how people connect the two neighborhoods in their daily lives.

The bridge is easy to access with level walkways suitable for most visitors. Since it is an open structure exposed to weather, plan your walk during fair conditions or bring appropriate gear for wind and rain.

The bridge was originally designed for trains and later repurposed as a pedestrian path, demonstrating how cities adapt old infrastructure for new uses. Its name comes directly from the purple paint applied during renovation, a color choice that became its most memorable feature.

Location: Cincinnati

Location: Newport

Official opening: April 1, 1872

Website: https://purplepeoplebridge.com

GPS coordinates: 39.09802,-84.49775

Latest update: December 8, 2025 19:58