Visually, the Henry Hudson Bridge is striking. Its sweeping steel arch and elevated perch over Spuyten Duyvil Creek make it a dramatic landmark. But driving it, especially southbound into the Bronx on the lower deck, felt surprisingly dull. The view is limited, the ride uneventful, and the sense of grandeur fades once you're beneath the upper span. The bridge connects northern Manhattan's Inwood Hill Park with the Bronx's Spuyten Duyvil neighborhood, serving as both a scenic gateway and a utilitarian link in the Henry Hudson Parkway system.

The bridge officially opened on December 12, 1936, and was a marvel of its time. Upon completion, it held the distinction of being the longest plate girder arch and fixed arch bridge in the world, boasting a main span of 841 feet and stretching a total of 2,208 feet across the waterway. Its design reflected the bold ambitions of New Deal-era infrastructure - elegant, efficient, and built to last.

Originally constructed with a single deck, the bridge was engineered with future expansion in mind. That foresight paid off quickly: just 18 months later, a second level was added to accommodate growing traffic. The new upper deck began carrying northbound vehicles, while the original lower deck was reassigned for southbound use. This split-level configuration remains in place today.

As for tolls... yes, there is one, but only for those heading southbound into Manhattan. Northbound drivers into the Bronx cross for free, a quirk that feels like a small reward for leaving the city behind.

Great trails for everything. Had fun with my escooter. The Henry Hudson Bridge in The Bronx is truly a special place and one that I always enjoy visiting. I really appreciate the trail that runs across the bridge, which makes it perfect for walking, exercising, and enjoying the outdoors in a unique setting. The views from the bridge are absolutely beautiful, offering stunning sights of the surrounding water and scenery that never get old. It’s a peaceful and refreshing experience that provides a great escape from the busy city while still being right in the heart of it. The Henry Hudson Bridge is a fantastic spot for both exercise and breathtaking views, and I highly recommend experiencing it.

I have paddled under this magnificent bridge (magnificent more for its setting than its own magnificence I suppose---the even grander GW is not far but it does outclass the Spuyten Duyvil railroad bridge but I digress) more than a dozen times. I've also driven over it in many a rental car, tho probably only once or twice in a car I actually owned. Regardless, it is very, very impressive from far below aboard a kayak.

I have never experienced crossing this bridge on bike. It was very scenic

This bridge has two levels and that each level has a different direction. People can walk or bike across the bridge and enjoy the scenic Hudson River views of New Jersey, and that lots of vehicles pass through the bridge daily going to Manhattan or to the Bronx.