The graceful open arches of the Third Avenue Bridge sweep toward downtown Minneapolis, their reflections spilling across the still surface of the Mississippi River in pools of gold. Behind them, the skyline rises in full evening glow, a quiet, architectural gateway into the heart of the city.
This is the Third Avenue Bridge, a National Register–listed landmark that has carried travelers from Central Avenue on the river's east bank into 3rd Avenue South in downtown Minneapolis since 1918. Its distinctive open-spandrel concrete arches sweep in a gentle, reverse S-curve across the Mississippi; a shape engineers gave it more than a century ago to avoid fractures in the limestone bedrock below, and one that still makes it instantly recognizable among the city's bridges.
I framed this shot low, letting the repeating arches lead the eye through the structure and out toward the illuminated towers of downtown. The evening light pulls warm gold from the buildings and cool blue from the sky, and the Mississippi, nearly motionless at this hour, mirrors the whole scene back in soft, rippling color. It's one of my favorite vantage points in the city: an old, quietly monumental piece of engineering standing in front of Minneapolis's modern skyline.
What bridge is this? This is the Third Avenue Bridge (also called the 3rd Avenue Bridge), originally known as the St. Anthony Falls Bridge. It connects Central Avenue on the river's northeast side to 3rd Avenue South in downtown Minneapolis.
What size should I order? It depends on your wall and viewing distance. Larger pieces make a stronger statement over a sofa or fireplace, while smaller sizes work well in hallways or gallery groupings. Not sure what will fit? Use the "View on Your Wall" AR tool on this page to preview the print at true size on your own wall using your phone or tablet before you order.
What material should I choose for this image? Given the depth in the shadows and the glow of the city lights, this image looks especially striking printed on metal or acrylic. Both add a subtle luminosity to the water and window reflections. Fine art paper, available in print-only or framed options, is a great choice if you prefer a softer, more traditional look.
Is this print ready to hang? Yes. Framed fine art paper, metal, and acrylic prints all arrive ready to hang, straight out of the box.
Is this a limited edition? No, this is an open edition print.
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This means you can use the camera on your phone or tablet and superimpose any piece of art onto a wall inside of your home or business.
To use this feature, Just look for the "Live Preview AR" button when viewing any piece of art on this website!
