Riehle Plaza and the John t. Myers Pedestrian Bridge
200 N. 2nd Street, Lafayette IN 47901
Description: Riehle Plaza is located downtown at 2nd and Main Street, bordering the
Wabash River. This outdoor plaza, riverfront walkway and pedestrian bridge over the
Wabash River offer visitors and residents alike a quiet retreat and is a gathering spot for many community events and festivals throughout the year (see below). The west side of the bridge opens into Tapawingo Park, which is home to
Riverside Skating Center.
Riehle Plaza is home to the Big Four Depot, this treasured building was built in 1902 and in 1994, as part of the Lafayette Railroad Relocation Project, it was moved to the plaza site. Since then, the plaza has been renovated and restored is now the centerpiece of the James F. Riehle Plaza. The lower level of the Big Four Depot houses both Amtrak and Greyhound Bus lines. CityBus has scheduled stops continually at the plaza making it a central hub for transportation. Many Public Art sculptures and fountains are located both on the bridge and at the plaza.
The bridge is handicap accessible with an elevator at the Big Four Depot. Bicycling is allowed, however motorized vehicles including scooters are not. The
Wabash Heritage Trail crosses over the pedestrian bridge. Restrooms and water fountains are available in the lower level of the plaza as well as at Tapawingo Park in West Lafayette. Parking is available at the city parking garage at 2nd and Columbian streets, at Tapawingo Park and the Wabash Landing garage in West Lafayette. There are a few limited parking spaces on the north side of the plaza.
The
Lafayette Citizens Band performs free evening concerts at the plaza from Memorial Day through Labor Day on Thursdays at 7:30 pm. The band also puts on the spectacular
Stars & Stripes Concert every year on July 4th.
Events:
Beers Across the Wabash
St. Patrick's Day Parade
TASTE of Tippecanoe