Snake Alley | Burlington

Information

Landmark: Snake Alley
City: Burlington
Country: USA Iowa
Continent: North America

Snake Alley, Burlington, USA Iowa, North America

Snake Alley is a one-way, unpaved, brick-laid street located in Burlington, Iowa, USA. It is characterized by its seven sharp turns.

Visual Characteristics

The alley is constructed from 260,000 bricks laid in a distinctive pattern. It measures 60 feet in length and features a gradient of 10 percent. The brickwork exhibits variations in color due to age and material sourcing.

Location & Access Logistics

Snake Alley is situated in downtown Burlington, Iowa. It connects Washington Street to Columbia Street. Access is via public streets; vehicular traffic is permitted only in a downward direction. Parking is available on adjacent streets and in nearby public lots. No specific public transport routes directly serve the alley itself, but bus stops are located within a 0.5km radius on Main Street.

Historical & Ecological Origin

Construction of Snake Alley was completed in 1894. Its primary purpose was to provide a more direct route for horse-drawn wagons from the downtown business district to the residential areas on the bluff, mitigating the steep incline of the original road. The design was intended to reduce erosion and provide a more manageable descent.

Key Highlights & Activities

Walking or cycling down the alley is the primary activity. Visitors can photograph the unique brickwork and curves. The alley is often used for local races and events.

Infrastructure & Amenities

Restrooms are not directly located on Snake Alley but are available in nearby downtown businesses. Shade is minimal along the alley itself. Cell phone signal (4G/5G) is generally available. Food vendors and restaurants are located within a 0.2km radius in the downtown area.

Best Time to Visit

For photography, early morning or late afternoon light provides optimal illumination of the brick patterns. The best months for visiting are April through October, avoiding potential ice or snow accumulation on the bricks during winter. No tide considerations apply.

Facts & Legends

A local legend suggests that any vehicle that can navigate Snake Alley without stopping or touching the sides will have good luck for the rest of the year. The alley is recognized as one of the "most crooked streets" in the United States.