Granite City, Illinois: Old Chain of Rocks Route 66 Bridge

Now restricted to pedestrians and bicycles, but considered a vital Route 66 Pilgrimage Spot. 2013 Caution Note: a few tipsters report the Missouri side has become a car break-in risk.

Old Chain of Rocks Route 66 Bridge

Definitely worth a stop, but I would recommend parking on the Illinois side if you plan on leaving your car for more than a few minutes. It feels much safer. We were told by locals on the Missouri side about broken out windows and did see several piles of broken glass in the parking area.

[Chase Z., 07/10/2010]

Old Chain of Rocks Bridge

I was here with a friend on 2/14/10 and it was snowing. This is a very nostalgic place, and it doesn't seem like it's a mile across. It's a quick walk across. After the 22 degree turn, there is a red car further down that you can sit in and have your picture taken. Also midway through the bridge there is an old time gas pump and some Route 66 benches to sit down on.

Parking is somewhat limited. It really depends on how many people are there. We were told by locals that the parking lot (Missouri side) is usually closed unless there is a big event. There is a decent sized area to park on the side of the road outside of the parking lot, but probably only about 10 cars at a time could fit.

[Casey Jones, 02/23/2010]

The Old Chain of Rocks Route 66 Bridge

A must stop on our Rt 66 trip. Did it on our BMW R1150GS, bike was loaded down, never got out of sight of it either, not the safest area, get out before dark!!

[Terry, 02/07/2010]

Old Chain of Rocks Bridge

For you movie buffs, the Chain of Rocks Bridge was used to film the escape portion at the end of "Escape from New York." Much of the film was shot in St. Louis.

[wil dunham, 10/28/2007]

Old Chain of Rocks Bridge

Historic Route 66 bridge, has deep curve, 30 degree angle, to allow for channel waterway traffic. It was built in 1925, closed to car traffic in 1965, and partially restored by Trailnet.org in 1999. There is parking on both sides -- bridge is open to pedestrians, and bicyclist only. The bridge is precisely one mile long. Seating is provided at various locations on the bridge.

[Lisa Boswell, 03/25/2007]