Overview of Blue Water Bridge
The Blue Water Bridge is a striking twin‑span international crossing linking Port Huron, Michigan (St. Clair County), and Point Edward, Ontario. This architectural marvel spans the St. Clair River at the southern tip of Lake Huron, offering panoramic river and lake views, making it perfect for tourists, local walkers, cyclists, and photography enthusiasts. Its dual spans carry commercial haulers and passenger vehicles, while pedestrians and cyclists enjoy riverside paths and cruise‑boat voyages beneath its arches. Families and nature lovers appreciate nearby parks, waterfront trails, and regular wildlife sightings. Click here.
History of Blue Water Bridge
The Blue Water Bridge opened its original span on October 10, 1938, designed by Modjeski & Masters and constructed by American and Ontario companies using cantilever truss design to allow massive freighters underneath . As a vital link on I‑94/I‑69 and Highway 402, it became instrumental in linking midwestern U.S. to Ontario in both commerce and travel . Rising demand led to constructing a second bowstring arch span, opening July 22, 1997, easing traffic flow and preserving the original span as westbound lanes . The bridge now ranks as the second‑busiest commercial crossing between Canada and the U.S., symbolizing cross‑border collaboration and regional pride . Click here to read about the Voyageur, St Clair, MI.
Points of Interest
The Cantilever Truss Span (Westbound)
The original 1938 westbound bridge is a cantilever through‑truss spanning 6,178 feet with a main span of 871 feet, towering 150 feet above the water . This historic span carries three lanes today and remains aesthetically significant, drawing architecture buffs and photographers. Visitors can admire its intricate steel design from riverwalks below, witness freighters passing beneath, and learn about its preservation as a landmark in historic‑bridge circles . Ideal for history lovers and photography enthusiasts, it conveys both beauty and engineering heritage.
The Bowstring Arch Span (Eastbound)
Built in 1997 to handle growing traffic, the eastbound span is a continuous tied‑arch structure stretching 6,109 feet with a 922‑foot main arch . It carries eastbound traffic into Michigan with three lanes and modern safety features. Its elegant arch and lighting scheme are visually stunning, especially at sunset or when illuminated at night . Viewing platforms on both ends offer clear vantage points, and the design symbolizes renewal and forward movement in regional infrastructure planning.
Port Huron–Point Edward Border Crossing
The customs plaza at the bridge handles 24/7 border inspections for both personal and commercial vehicles . US‑side facilities were upgraded in 2011 and the Canadian side in 2012, improving efficiency . Pedestrian lanes, NEXUS/FAST programs, toll booths, and electronic tolling on the eastbound span add to cross‑border ease . This crossing underscores the bridge’s role beyond aesthetics— it’s a vital artery for commerce, daily travel, and diplomacy.
Places to Eat Near Blue Water Bridge
Freighters Eatery & Taproom
Located inside the DoubleTree Hotel near the bridge, Freighters Eatery & Taproom features lake‑view seating and a maritime‑inspired menu—fresh seafood, burgers, regional craft beers. The casual yet refined vibe is perfect for families and couples wanting serene river views paired with hearty fare. Its proximity to the waterfront makes it a convenient and popular stop after a riverwalk or sightseeing trip.
Palms Krystal Bar & Grill
Just down the street from the bridge in Port Huron, Palms Krystal delivers classic American comfort food with a vintage, relaxed bar atmosphere. Their menu emphasizes burgers, sandwiches, seafood platters, and local brews. It’s beloved by locals, truckers, and travelers seeking dependable, hearty meals in a casual setting after crossing the border or touring nearby sites.
Café Vista at DoubleTree
Also at DoubleTree, Café Vista offers breakfast and light lunch options with scenic balcony views of the St. Clair River. Guests enjoy omelettes, salads, wraps, and hot beverages in a bright, airy setting. It’s ideal for families, business travelers, or couples starting a waterfront day with a laid‑back, welcoming ambiance.
Places to Visit near Blue Water Bridge
Blue Water River Walk
Stretching nearly a mile along the St. Clair River south of the bridge, this asphalt path winds through native landscaping, picnic areas, and a restored old railroad ferry dock with Brazilian walnut decking . Visitors can watch passing freighters, spot turtles on basking logs, and enjoy views of the twin-spans. It also connects naturally to the Bridge‑to‑Bay Trail, perfect for walking, jogging, or cycling in a peaceful waterfront environment.
Thomas Edison Parkway & Lighthouse Beach
Just north of the bridge, Thomas Edison Parkway leads to Lighthouse Beach and the historic Fort Gratiot Lighthouse, Michigan’s oldest operating lighthouse (since 1825) . Visitors can tour the restored tower with panoramic views of Lake Huron and the bridge, enjoy sandy beachfront, and visit the Edison Depot Museum nearby. This combination offers history, outdoor recreation, and iconic views in one locale.
Downtown Port Huron Waterfront District
A short drive or walk from the bridge brings you to Port Huron’s lively waterfront district, packed with boutique shops, galleries, riverfront dining, and regular events at Desmond Landing . Many stops overlook the river and bridge, creating a vibrant mix of urban energy and scenic charm. Great for families and arts‑lovers, it delivers cultural exploration, casual strolls, and community fun.
Practical Information
Official Name: Blue Water Bridge
Location: Port Huron, St. Clair County, Michigan
Address: I‑94 & I‑69, Port Huron, MI 48060
Operated by: Michigan DOT and Federal Bridge Corporation Canada
Hours: Open 24 hours, border inspection plazas operate around the clock
Tolls:
- Cars: US $3.00 to Canada, US $3.25 to US
- Trucks/buses: US $3.25–$3.50 per axle
- Pedestrians & Cyclists: Walk paths under span; pedestrian crossing available with border checks
- Official site: Visit the Michigan DOT Blue Water Bridge page for supplies, travel times and toll info.
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Driving Directions from Blue Water Bridge to S&P Heating LLC
- Exit the Blue Water Bridge plaza via Pine Grove Avenue heading south.
- Merge onto I‑94 West via the on‑ramp toward Detroit.
- Take exit 274 for Lapeer Street (formerly M‑146 approach).
- Continue south on Lapeer Street through two signalized intersections.
- Turn right onto Hancock Street; follow for 0.5 miles through light‑industrial area.
- Turn left onto 10th Avenue; proceed two blocks.
- Look for S&P Heating LLC at 1234 10th Ave (example address), on the right, just past Elmwood.
- The office is next to the commercial freight yards, marked by our branded sign.