Bob Kerrey Pedestrian Bridge
Overview
The Bob Kerrey Pedestrian Bridge, affectionately known by locals as "Bob," is a striking architectural landmark that spans 3,000 feet across the Missouri River. This elegant, S-curved cable-stayed footbridge carries the distinction of being the first pedestrian bridge ever built to connect two states—linking Omaha, Nebraska with Council Bluffs, Iowa. A beloved local tradition here is "bobbing," where visitors strike a pose right on the clearly engraved state line to stand in two places at the same exact time. Serving as a vital gateway to more than 150 miles of interconnected nature trails, the bridge anchors a 3-acre plaza featuring interactive water fountains on the Nebraska side and connects to beautiful riverfront parks on both banks. Illuminated by a colorful, dancing LED light display at night, "Bob" offers unparalleled, panoramic views of the changing city skylines.
Practical Info
Travel Tips
- The 3,000-foot suspension walkway strictly bans motorized vehicles, gas mopeds, and heavy e-scooters; traffic is legally reserved for non-motorized bicycles and pedestrians.
- The Omaha-side plaza lot enforces strict municipal codes; extended overlander truck rigs are completely barred from overnight staging or executing greywater dumps.
Photo Tips
Gear
- The center-point state boundary line faces aggressive river-corridor wind shear exceeding 30 mph; professional camera tripods require stabilization counterweights to avoid flips.
Reviews
- A highly magnificent modern suspension bridge! Straddling the Missouri River to connect NE and IA, standing on the state line offers a highly creative and fun photo op.
- Completely free to access with a very spacious, free public parking lot below, a premier spot for evening walks, cycling, and city skyline views.
- The deck features high-spec, fully flat concrete for excellent wheelchair and stroller accessibility, with clear signage and sturdy, safe guard rails.
- It avoids commercial commercialization to preserve a quiet, raw riverside peace; at night, the lively LED bridge light show delivers high visual impact.
- Lacking any shade canopies or awnings, walking across the fully exposed deck during mid-summer middays subjects you to intense sun and heatwaves.
- The Missouri River gets very windy; on gusty spring and autumn days, strong gales sweep across the bridge, causing temperature drops and discomfort.
- Large flocks of Canada geese nest on the lawns below; sections of paths and waterfront steps are frequently littered with droppings due to lagging cleanup.
- The bridge spans nearly 3,000 feet, yet the entire deck features zero rest benches, making the full walk slightly taxing for elderly visitors with lower stamina.