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John A. Roebling Suspension Bridge – Gateway Center, Covington, KY - 47638339321📷 w_lemay, CC0

John A. Roebling Suspension Bridge

Covington, KY

History

A blue suspension bridge across the Ohio between Covington and Cincinnati, a forerunner of the Brooklyn Bridge. Walk the pedestrian walkway for skyline views, and start from the Kentucky side where parking is easier.

The bridge over the Ohio River connects Covington, Kentucky, with Cincinnati, Ohio. It opened to pedestrians in December 1866 and to vehicles on January 1, 1867, and with a main span of 1,057 ft (about 322 m) it was then the longest suspension bridge in the world. It was designed by John A. Roebling, who later designed the Brooklyn Bridge (completed 1883, span 1,595.5 ft). It has been a National Historic Landmark since 1975. It was painted blue in 1976; originally it was brown. Since 1983 it has officially borne Roebling's name.

The bridge carries KY 17 and is open to cars and pedestrians; the weight limit is 11 tons (as of October 2026), so heavy trucks may not cross. On the Kentucky side, the Roebling Point district of pubs and restaurants begins. Allow about an hour for the walk and photos.

Nearest town
Covington, KY
Category
History & culture
GPS
39.0877, -84.5103

Hours, fees and access change. Confirm with the operator or park before you go.

Good to know

Best time to go

JanFebMarAprMayJunJulAugSepOctNovDec

The most pleasant months are usually May and September. Still fine, with some compromises, in April, June, August and October. Cold, short days in December–February. (Estimate from long-term temperature averages, terrain and pass seasons)

Sources

Nearby

Campsites nearby

  • Tucker's LandingMotorhome stopover
    4 mi from John A. Roebling Suspension Bridge
    Motorhomes
  • River Days CampgroundCampsite
    14 mi from John A. Roebling Suspension Bridge · 76 pitches
    TentsCaravans
  • River PinesMotorhome stopover
    14 mi from John A. Roebling Suspension Bridge
    Motorhomes
  • Riverfront RV ParkMotorhome stopover
    15 mi from John A. Roebling Suspension Bridge
    Motorhomes
  • Beyonder Getaway Rising SunMotorhome stopover
    19 mi from John A. Roebling Suspension Bridge
    Motorhomes
  • East Fork State Park CampgroundCampsite
    22 mi from John A. Roebling Suspension Bridge
    TentsCaravansElectricityShowersToiletsWaste disposalDogs allowedWi-Fi

All campsites in Kentucky · Campsite data: © OpenStreetMap contributors, ODbL 1.0 · Updated October 3, 2026

FAQs

Where is John A. Roebling Suspension Bridge?

John A. Roebling Suspension Bridge is in Covington, KY, at GPS 39.0877, -84.5103. It is about 64 mi from Frankfort.

Can you camp near John A. Roebling Suspension Bridge?

Yes. The nearest campsite listed in OpenStreetMap is Tucker's Landing, about 4 mi away; within 25 mi there are 37 campsites and motorhome stopovers.

What is there to see near John A. Roebling Suspension Bridge?

Places worth a stop nearby: Cincinnati Union Terminal (2 mi), Fort Ancient (31 mi), National Museum of the U.S. Air Force (52 mi) and Madison Historic District (53 mi).

When is the best time to visit John A. Roebling Suspension Bridge?

The most pleasant months are usually May and September. Still fine, with some compromises, in April, June, August and October. (Estimate from long-term temperature averages, terrain and pass seasons)