Discovery Bridge

Discovery Bridge spans approximately 1,590 feet across the Missouri River, connecting Yankton, South Dakota to Cedar County, Nebraska by way of US Highway 81. The four-lane bridge measures about 74 feet wide and features decorative spires standing roughly 50 feet tall that are equipped with integrated lighting systems.

The bridge opened on October 11, 2008, replacing the Meridian Highway Bridge that had served the region for 84 years beginning in 1924. This new structure marked an important moment for direct connections between the two states.

The bridge takes its name from the Lewis and Clark expedition, which was called the Corps of Discovery. This name was chosen through a public naming contest that connected the crossing to the region's exploration heritage.

The bridge functions as part of an important transportation corridor serving regular traffic between the two states. The integrated lighting system makes it particularly worth viewing during evening hours when the decorative spires are illuminated.

The bridge crosses over the Missouri National Recreational River, a federally protected waterway managed by the National Park Service. This designation makes the crossing part of an important conservation area where the river is preserved for public recreation.

Location: Nebraska

Location: South Dakota

Inception: October 11, 2008

Official opening: October 11, 2008

GPS coordinates: 42.86510,-97.39700

Latest update: December 14, 2025 11:26