Last Updated on July 7, 2024 by Tori’s VA
The United States is full of wonderful destinations worth traveling to, but have you ever thought of all the beautiful bridges in America that you could visit? With over 600,000 bridges across the 50 states, I thought I would do a roundup of some of both the best and brightest the country has to offer.
There is such a variety, all with unique features. But they all have one thing in common, they are picture perfect and worth visiting for one reason or another. It definitely doesn’t hurt that there’s fun events at each and a plethora of things to do in both the surrounding towns and cities.
I asked some travel bloggers to tell me about their favorite bridges in America. We all have personally been to these bridges, walked or drove over them, explored the towns they are located in and of course, took plenty of photos of their beauty.
This post may contain affiliate links for activities, destinations and products that I love, and think you will too!
Map of the Bridges in America
Bridges in America – West
1. Golden Gate Bridge, San Francisco, California
Easily both the most famous and beautiful of the bridges in America is the Golden Gate Bridge in San Francisco, California. This bridge has become both a national icon and is quite the sight to see, definitely worth making a trip to the west coast for! I’ve been to San Francisco twice now and don’t think seeing this bridge will ever get old.
This bright red steel bridge sees over 10 million visitors each year. And I understand why, it’s gorgeous. Located on the north western side of the city, the Golden Gate Bridge connects the city of San Francisco to the cute town of Sausalito, just across the San Francisco Bay.
Visiting one of the parks near the bridge is a must-do when in San Francisco, and there are many where you can get a beautiful shot. This list of places to view the bridge can help guide you. We personally loved taking pictures at Battery Spencer for sunset. You have both a view of the bridge from high up and the city lies in the background.
To drive across it, head from the city into Sausalito, or take a day trip to Napa!
But the bridge isn’t the only reason you should visit San Francisco, it also happens to be extremely high on my list of favorite places in America. There’s so many fabulous things to do in San Francisco, from the Ghirardelli Chocolate factory, to Alcatraz and the Golden State Warriors Basketball! So come to see the country’s most famous bridge and stay for the rest that this city has to offer.
Address: Golden Gate Brg, San Francisco, CA
How to Visit: Take a boat tour to see the bridge up close!
Other Things to Do Nearby: Things to do in San Francisco
2. Rainbow Bridge, Haleiwa, Oahu, Hawaii
Recommended by Noel of Visit Spain and Mediterranean
Along the North Shore of Oahu near the popular North Shore coastline and the entrance to Haleiwa town is the Anahulu Stream Bridge, one of the best bridges in America. Known locally as the “Rainbow Bridge”, this locally loved bridge marks the northern entrance to the main tourist town of Haleiwa. It is one of the most recognized landmarks in with its distinctive twin arches made of reinforced concrete crossing the Anahulu stream.
Emptying into both the open waters and lagoon area of Haleiwa beach and harbor, you’ll see a lot of sup boarders and kayakers plying through the calm waters and passing under this bridge. It’s a perfect spot to capture some photographs of both the shoreline and the bridge itself.
The town of Haleiwa is a very popular and easy to get to by car or taking one of the many circle island tours that go through the North Shore area and eventually passing through the Rainbow bridge.
It’s fun to just stop and admire the bridge with both beach and ocean views. It’s easy enough to just park off the road and snap a couple of pics and just enjoy the stream of activity and fun happening around the beach area and the bridge itself. Afterwards continue into town and explore all the cool venues around Haleiwa town and maybe go on a hike! Visit Oahu in February to watch great surfing on the North Shore too.
While you’re here, Oahu is also home to one of the best beaches in the world with clear water!
Address: 66008 Kamehameha Hwy, Haleiwa, HI 96712
How to Visit: Take a tour of the North Shore!
Other Things to Do Nearby: Things to Do on Oahu
3. Deception Pass Bridge, Oak Harbor, Washington
Recommended by Lynli of Wander Big
Deception Pass Bridge is a 1,500 foot long bridge spanning the deep chasm between both Fildalgo Island and Whidbey Island in the Pacific Northwest USA – about 1 hour north of Seattle. Visitors can arrive to the bridge by car by taking I-5 north to State Route 20 W, which leads directly to the bridge. This bridge is both an iconic structure in the Pacific Northwest and is one of the most beautiful bridges in America. It’s known for its green color and the breathtaking landscape of the water, mountains, and wildlife visible from the bridge.
Visitors can walk out onto the two lane bridge to view the turbulent waters 180 feet below. On a clear day, it’s possible to watch both seals and otters navigate the waters below. And a few lucky visitors each year spot orcas as they pass through the deep passage to the Strait of Juan de Fuca!
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Deception Pass State Park is located on the southern side of the bridge, and visitors can hike from the bridge deck down winding trails to a popular beach for low tide exploring, camping, and relaxing. To park here, visitors need a Discover Pass WA State Park parking permit. Beyond the park, there are many things to do on Whidbey Island.
Deception Pass Bridge and State Park offer countless photography vantage points. The beaches and trails below the bridge offer unique perspectives, and the bridge deck itself offers an expansive landscape. Alternatively, adventure photographers can hire both a boat and an expert captain for a trip into the turbulent waters below for photos from below.
Address: North Whidbey, Oak Harbor, WA 98277
How to Visit: Take a tour from Seattle
4. Silver Bridge, Grand Canyon National Park, Arizona
Recommended by Kristen of Yonderlust Ramblings
Grand Canyon National Park receives 5 million annual guests, only a small percentage ever witness its Silver Bridge up close. Crossing the mighty Colorado River from the bottom of the largest canyon in the world is a surreal moment, and one that’s hard earned by those lucky enough to make the crossing! Which is why Silver Bridge is one of the most incredible bridges in America.
The Silver Bridge is located in Grand Canyon National Park, on the Bright Angel Trail. It connects the South Rim and the North Rim at the bottom of the canyon.
In order to walk across the Silver Bridge with your own two feet, you must hike there! This requires a Rim to River hike on the Bright Angel Trail, an 18 mile round trip hike! Or, many crossers of the Silver Bridge embark on an epic Rim to Rim hike, a 24 mile round trip hike from one rim to the other!
The best views of the Silver Bridge spanning the chasm over the Colorado River are from the south side on the Bright Angel Trail.. As you cross the Silver Bridge, you will be able to see, hear, and feel the rapidly moving current of the Colorado River directly beneath your feet!
While the Silver Bridge is an iconic symbol of the Colorado River and the heart of the Grand Canyon, it also provides access to a unique world at the bottom. On the north side of the bridge is Bright Angel Campground and Phantom Ranch, a hiker haven that offers rest, refueling, and overnight accommodations for those embarking on some of the toughest hiking in the country!
Address: Bright Angel Trail, Grand Canyon Village, AZ 86023
How to Visit: Hike the Bright Angel Trail
5. London Bridge, Lake Havasu City, Arizona
Recommended by Leigh of Campfires & Concierges
Lake Havasu City Arizona is home to the London Bridge. No, really. Developers in this sleepy resort town bought the London Bridge from the United Kingdom in 1968 and had it shipped piece by piece to Western Arizona. There wasn’t even a need for a bridge; they had to divert a nearby river to create a channel under the bridge. It was a marketing gimmick, and it worked!
Today, Lake Havasu City is known as Arizona’s West Coast. It’s a party destination for boaters, retirees and anyone just looking for a good time. The London Bridge in Arizona is still a functioning bridge, and one of the best bridges in America. You can drive over it, walk under it, and even take a guided tour to learn more about the bridge. There’s a little English Village at the base of the bridge, with English-themed souvenirs and even a British phone booth!
Lake Havasu also has a collection of lighthouses that are replicas of famous lighthouses from around the world. If you don’t have a boat of your own, then I highly recommend hiring a boat tour to see different parts of the lake. It’s really a fun little weekend getaway destination, and it’s less than three hours’ drive from Las Vegas.
Address: 1340 McCulloch Blvd N, Lake Havasu City, AZ 86403
How to Visit: Rent a Car from Phoenix, Arizona
6. Bixby Creek Bridge, Big Sur, California
Recommended by Milijana of World Travel Connector
Big Sur’s Bixby Creek Bridge is one of the most famous bridges in America. The bridge is known for its elegant architecture and spectacular setting on Big Sur on the Pacific Coast.
Stunning Big Sur is a top US destination, and Bixby Bridge is its landmark. For the same reason, Bixby Bridge is among the most photographed bridges in the USA and a popular stop on the scenic San Francisco to Los Angeles road trip.
Gorgeous Carmel-by-the Sea is the nearest town to Bixby Bridge. Bixby Bridge is 13 mi south of Carmel-by-the Sea, 11 mi south of Point Lobos Nature Reserve, 5 mi north of Garapata State Park, and 24 mi north of McWay Falls.
The most popular photo spots are Castle Rock Viewpoint and Hurricane Viewpoint. Castle Rock Viewpoint, on the north side of the bridge, is the nearest viewpoint of the bridge and provides the closest view of Bixby Bridge. However, Hurricane Viewpoint, a mile south of the Bixby Bridge, is arguably the loveliest viewpoint of Bixby Bridge as it gives stunning views of the Pacific Coast and the bridge. Both spots come with parking spaces. So, don’t worry about where to park your car.
If you are a nature lover who likes hiking, then consider trekking the Old Coast Road trail in Big Sur. The trail route starts next to the bridge, follows Bixby Creek, and ends at Big Sur River near Andrew Molera State Park. The Old Coast Road trail has some fabulous viewpoints of the Bixby Bridge.
Big Sur and Bixby Bridge are the iconic destinations in California that everyone needs to see in their lifetime.
Address: 39020 Coast Rd, Monterey, CA 93940
How to Visit: Take a day tour of Big Sur
7. Cook’s Chasm Scenic Bridge, Yachats, Oregon
Recommended by Jess of Uprooted Traveler
The teeny town of Yachats, Oregon is home to Cook’s Chasm Scenic Bridge, a picturesque concrete bridge directly along a cliff over the Pacific Ocean. It’s one of the most beautiful bridges in America.
It’s located in the Cape Perpetua Scenic Area along U.S. 101, a must-stop along any Oregon road trip that snakes along the coastline. The bridge crosses over a dramatic bay with some of the most interesting water features along the coastline, including the Spouting Horn, an ocean geyser caused by water being forced into a deep hole, and Thor’s Well, a 20-foot hole from which water shoots over 20 feet in the air!
Beyond interesting water features, there’s a dozen hiking trails through the park, offering stunning views through the coastal forest of the Pacific Ocean.
For the best photo of the bridge, head to the Thor’s Well overlook, where there’s a series of steps that leads you down onto the basalt rocks lining the shoreline. You’ll have a great vantage point of the bridge from here, but be careful not to venture out too far—strong waves can sneak up out of nowhere.
Address: 2400 US-101, Yachats, OR 97498
How to Visit: Rent a Car from Eugene, Oregon
Bridges in America – North
8. Brooklyn Bridge, New York, New York
Recommended by Claudia of My Adventures Across The World
Located in New York City, the Brooklyn Bridge is one of the most iconic bridges in America. The bridge was completed in 1883 and connects lower Manhattan to Brooklyn, going over the East River. It is the first suspension bridge ever built, so that is quite a record!
Whether you have 2, 3 or 4 days in New York or even only one night in New York, seeing this bridge is an absolute must.
You can easily access the bridge from Lower Manhattan. If you want to walk across the bridge (it’s 1,834 meters, which is little over a mile), then you will find the pedestrian entrance across the street from the City Hall Park, on Centre Street. Once you get off the bridge, make sure to explore the surrounding area as it is quite nice. You can head to Brooklyn Height Promenade for example, or to Brooklyn Bridge Park. You could even stretch your way to DUMBO, one of the most iconic photo spots in the city.
From the bridge, you can enjoy impressive views of Manhattan. But for the best views of the Brooklyn Bridge itself, head to the nearby Brooklyn Heights Promenade, on the Brooklyn side, or to Pier 17 on the Manhattan side.
The bridge itself is not a spot of the New York Marathon, but it is often involved in other races and events.
Address: New York, NY 10038
How to Visit: Take a sightseeing boat tour for the best views of the bridge!
9. Sachs Covered Bridge, Gettysburg, Pennsylvania
Recommended by Jessica of Past Lane Travels
The Sachs Covered Bridge in Gettysburg, PA may not be as familiar to the public as some other bridges in America — but it’s very well known to history buffs and ghost hunters. Originally built in 1854, the Sachs bridge spans Marsh Creek just south of Gettysburg, and is referred to as the “haunted bridge in Gettysburg.”
The bridge was used by both armies during the Battle of Gettysburg, and is said to be haunted by spirits from the Civil War.
Things To Do: Many visitors come after dark for the ghostly atmosphere, but locals go to the bridge to fish. There is also a short walking trail on the western side of the bridge that makes a perfect picnic area. The bridge is very photogenic from either side.
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The address is “Water Works Road.” Heading South on the Emmitsburg Road from Gettysburg, turn RIGHT onto Millerstown Road (turns into Pumping Station Road). Turn LEFT onto Roberta Way and then right onto Waterworks Road, which takes you to a small parking area. This side of the haunted bridge in Gettysburg has a wheelchair ramp. If you miss the Roberta Way turn, then keep going on Pumping Station Road and turn LEFT immediately after you cross Marsh Creek.
Sachs Bridge Gettysburg has been designated “Pennsylvania’s Most Historic Covered Bridge.”
Address: Waterworks Rd, Gettysburg, PA 17325
How to Visit: Rent a Car from Baltimore, Maryland
10. Cornish Windsor Covered Bridge, Windsor, VT & Cornish, NH
Recommended by Amy of New England With Love
New England is known for being home to numerous historic covered bridges in America. In fact, these unique structures are one of the attractions which often draws visitors to the region. Vermont is perhaps most notable for its covered bridges: there are more than 100 in the state, making it the US state with the most bridges per square mile.
While there are dozens of covered bridges in Vermont and New Hampshire of historic, architectural, or folkloric note, the Cornish Windsor Covered Bridge stands out as one of the longest. Actually, up until 2008, it was the longest covered bridge in the United States. Unfortunately, it lost its title when a 600+ foot covered bridge was erected in Ohio.
Not only is this 449 ft bridge very impressive, it’s also unique for crossing state lines. As you drive across the bridge, over the Connecticut River, you’ll depart from Vermont and end up in New Hampshire (or vice versa).
Built in 1866, this bridge is worth visiting and photographing, especially in the fall months when the colorful foliage only adds to the beauty of your photo.
The best viewing spot is from the New Hampshire side, North on Route 12A. There are several places to pull over along the road here where you can and walk back towards the bridge to grab your shot.
You can drive over this bridge as it’s on a main road, so you can easily get to the Cornish Windsor Covered Bridge by car.
Address: Cornish, NH 03745
How to Visit: Rent a Car from Boston, Massachusetts
11. Roberto Clemente Bridge, Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania
Recommended by Julie of Toronto to Anywhere
With 446 bridges, Pittsburgh is known as the city of bridges, so naturally it has some of the best bridges in America worth visiting. Roberto Clemente Bridge crosses the Allegheny River and is one of the “Three Sisters” bridges built in the 1920s. These iconic yellow bridges connect downtown Pittsburgh with the North Shore neighborhood and also include the Andy Warhol and Rachel Carson bridges.
The Roberto Clemente Bridge is easily accessible on foot from downtown Pittsburgh and is located beside PNC Park, home of the Pittsburgh Pirates Major League Baseball team. The bridge is named after Puerto Rican who was both a baseball player and humanitarian Roberto Clemente, who played 18 seasons for the Pittsburgh Pirates.
The Roberto Clemente Bridge is one of the most photographed landmarks in Pittsburgh and is often used as a symbol of the city. For stunning photos, head to PNC Park, where you can capture breathtaking views of both the downtown skyline and riverfront.
Close to the Roberto Clemente Bridge, you will find other excellent attractions worth visiting, including the Andy Warhol Museum, the Carnegie Science Center and Acrisure Stadium (formerly Heinz Field), home of the Pittsburgh Steelers football team.
The bridge is currently undergoing a major rehabilitation project that began in 2021 and is expected to be completed by December 2023. While the bridge may be closed during this time, visitors can still capture stunning pictures from PNC Park or take a stroll along the riverfront to admire this iconic bridge.
The Roberto Clemente Bridge, with its both deep-rooted history and distinctive architecture, is one impressive bridge you will want to add to your travel itinerary.
Address: Pittsburgh, PA 15222
How to Visit: Take a bike tour through Pittsburgh!
12. Memorial Bridge, Washington, D.C.
Recommended by Jennifer of Family Trip Guides
Memorial Bridge in Washington, D.C. is one of the most famous bridges in the city and one of the best bridges in America. It connects the Lincoln Memorial in DC to the Arlington National Cemetery in Virginia over the Potomac River. The bridge honors Abraham Lincoln and his enduring legacy of both unity and patriotism. The design is neoclassical with beautiful sculptures on either end.
To reach the bridge, you can drive and park either at Arlington National Cemetery (paid parking) or near the Martin Luther King Jr. Memorial. Another option is to take the Metro with the closest metro station being Arlington National Cemetery on the Blue line. There are wide sidewalks on either side of the bridge, making it easily accessible to pedestrians.
To capture a great image of the Memorial Bridge, visit during the golden hours of sunrise or sunset and walk along the Potomac River on the south side of the Bridge. You can also see a wonderful view from the steps in front of the Lincoln Memorial. The bridge is within walking distance of many of the famous DC monuments and memorials including the Vietnam Veterans Memorial and Korean War Veterans Memorial, and the National Mall. The bridge is used for many of the city’s famous races including the Marine Corps Marathon.
Address: 874 Washington Blvd, Washington, DC 20566
How to Visit: Go on a dinner cruise along the Potomac River
13. Tunkhannock Creek Viaduct (Nicholson Bridge), Nicholson, Pennsylvania
Recommended by Karen of Family Travels on a Budget
The Tunkhannock Creek Viaduct, sometimes called the Nicholson Bridge for the town it overlooks, is not just another bridge. Built by hand between 1912-1915, this impressive bridge spans 2,375 feet and stands 240 feet tall.
Comprised of 12 arches, the bridge is reminiscent of ancient Roman structures. Built by the DL&W Railroad to eliminate treacherous mountain grades between Scranton, PA and Binghampton, NY, the bridge is still used today. An engineering masterpiece so impressive it earned visits from Theodore Roosevelt, Henry Ford and Thomas Edison, it is also included on the National Register of Historic Places for its national architectural, engineering, engineering and transportation significance.
The Tunkhannock Creek Viaduct is best viewed from a roadside park on PA Route 11 in Nicholson (GPS Coordinates: 41.625483, -75.778474.41). For a different perspective from below the bridge, which provides an incredible perspective of its enormity, pull off under the bridge on Route 92 just east of Nicholson.
The Tunkhannock Creek Viaduct is part of the Viaduct Valley Way Scenic Byway on PA Route 92 between both the towns of Tunkhannock, PA and Susquehanna, PA. The Nicholson Tourism Center at the DL&W Railroad Station, opened in July of 2023, shares the important railroad history of the Viaduct Valley Scenic Byway, including the Tunkhannock Creek Viaduct.
Address: PA-92, Nicholson, PA 18446
How to Visit: Rent a Car from Philadelphia, Pennsylvania
14. North Bridge, Concord, Massachusetts
Recommended by Chelsea of Adventures of Chels
One of the most historically important bridges in America is the North Bridge near Boston, MA.
The North Bridge is where part of the Revolutionary War’s Battles of Lexington and Concord took place. After a run in with American minutemen in Lexington, British troops marched to Concord where they were met by more American minutemen who managed to both hold the bridge and stop the British from advancing. This was the start of the American Revolution.
The North Bridge is located in Concord, which is just a short drive from Boston, and is best reached by car. It’s also part of the Minute Man National Historical Park, which means park rangers are present to share details of what happened that day and answer any questions visitors may have. When visiting the North Bridge, be sure to also swing by the Minute Man Visitor Center which is located in nearby Lexington.
For the best place to get a great picture of the North Bridge, head to either side of it. This will allow you to get the full bridge in the photo along with some greenery in the background.
Address: Old N Bridge, Concord, MA 01742
How to Visit: Enjoy a Concord day tour from Boston.
15. Middle Covered Bridge, Woodstock, Vermont
Recommended by Florencia of Ana Florentina
Vermont is home to more than 100 covered bridges, more than any other U.S. state! So naturally one of these has to be included in the list of the best bridges in America. The majority of these bridges were constructed during the mid and late 19th Century.
While visiting Woodstock you can explore Middle Covered Bridge, one of the most picturesque covered bridges in Vermont!
This 139-foot-long bridge is the first public covered bridge built by the State of Vermont since 1889, and breathtaking no matter the season.
You will find this bridge directly across from the Woodstock Inn & Resort, by the Ottauquechee River. After photographing the bridge, be sure to walk over to the Village of Woodstock, where you will find over a dozen of the cutest shops around!
Other covered bridges near Woodstock include Taftsville Covered Bridge, Lincoln Covered Bridge, and Quechee Covered Bridge.
Address: Woodstock, VT 05091
How to Visit: Rent a Car from Boston, Massachusetts
16. Bow Bridge, Central Park, New York, New York
Recommended by me, Tori!
Featured in many movies, the Bow Bridge is one of the most famous sights in New York City’s Central Park and one of the most famous bridges in America. It was built back in 1862 and allows pedestrians to cross over Central Park Lake. The bridge is made of cast iron and is the second oldest cast iron bridge in the US.
The bridge itself is beautiful, but it’s the setting that helps to make it uber romantic. That’s why this bridge is famous for being the location of many proposals in real life and on the silver screen.
While you’re visiting Central Park, be sure to wander around and spend as much time as you can here taking in the beautiful sights. Consider visiting the Metropolitan Museum of Art (the MET) which is located inside the park. There’s also the Belvedere Castle to visit. Or rent a boat or bike to explore the park in a more unique way.
Address: Central Park, Bow Bridge, New York, NY 10024
How to Visit: Take a tour of Central Park.
Other things to do nearby: One Night in New York City
Bridges in America – Midwest
17. Roebling Suspension Bridge, Cincinnati, Ohio
Recommended by Stella Jane of Around the World in 24 Hours
Everyone has heard of the Brooklyn Bridge, which was designed by the engineer John Roebling. However, before he designed the Brooklyn Bridge, he practiced his ideas by creating the less famous, but just as beautiful, Roebling Suspension Bridge that spans the Ohio River between Cincinnati and Covington, Kentucky. When it was built, this was the longest of the bridges in America and in the world.
This bridge is easily reachable from either downtown Covington or downtown Cincinnati. You can walk across and travel from one state to another within a matter of minutes. The best views come from the Covington side, as the skyline in Cincinnati is a little more interesting than the skyline in Covington.
Another bonus is that it is much easier to get a picture of this stunning suspension bridge without many people around than it is to get a picture of the Brooklyn Bridge when it’s not covered with tourists. After you are done walking across the bridge, enjoy the sights of Cincinnati, like the National Underground Railroad Freedom Center or the famous Cincinnati Zoo. On the Covington side, don’t miss the murals that portray the history of Covington. These beauties are located right next to the bridge.
Address: John A. Roebling Suspension Bridge, Covington, KY 41011
How to Visit: Book a river cruise along the Ohio River.
Bridges in America – South
18. Mile High Swinging Bridge, Grandfather Mountain, North Carolina
Recommended by Lauren of Where the Wild Kids Wander
Unlike many bridges in America on this list, the Mile High Swinging Bridge at Grandfather Mountain is for pedestrians only!
This 228-foot-long suspension bridge is a mile high in elevation (that’s where it gets its name!). Walking across the bridge with the 80-foot chasm below can be intimidating. But the views of Grandfather Mountain from either side make it totally worth it. Plus, that’s where you’ll get some of the best photos of the bridge itself.
You can also walk under the bridge via the Bridge Trail. That’ll give you a good perspective of how high up it is!
Grandfather Mountain is located in Linville, NC, close to the Blue Ridge Parkway. It’s a perfect day trip destination from Asheville or Charlotte.
There is an entrance fee at Grandfather Mountain to get to the Mile High Swinging Bridge. However, the fee covers access to the incredible hiking trails, wildlife habitats, and nature center. They also will open early on select days for guests to enjoy the sunrise from the bridge.
Address: 2050 Blowing Rock Hwy, Linville, NC 28646
How to Visit: Hike at Grandfather Mountain
Other Things to Do Nearby: Visit the Outer Banks
19. New River Gorge Bridge, New River Gorge National Park, West Virginia
Recommended by Taylor of Brown Eyed Flower Child
One of the most famous bridges in America is the New River Gorge Bridge in New River Gorge National Park in West Virginia. It’s the longest steel arch bridge in the U.S.. The New River Gorge Bridge also stands 876 feet tall, making it the country’s third tallest bridge.
The town closest to New River Gorge National Park is Fayetteville, West Virginia. It’s a great spot to visit on a USA road trip! From I-79, take Route 19 into Fayetteville. The closest international airport to the park is West Virginia International Yeager Airport in Charleston, the capital of West Virginia.
The most picturesque spots of the New River Gorge Bridge are on the Bridge Trail, which is a strenuous 1.72-mile round-trip hike; the Canyon Rim Boardwalk, which is both an easy 0.32-mile round-trip hike and the Long Point Trail, which is a moderate 3.2-mile round-trip hike.
One of the best things to do on the New River Gorge Bridge is the Bridge Walk. During this experience, you can walk along a catwalk across the entire length of the New River Gorge Bridge and back. The catwalk is 24 inches wide, and you’re securely fastened onto a cable.
On the Bridge Walk, you can enjoy breathtaking views of the Appalachian Mountains, the New River Gorge itself, and the river below.
During the month of October, New River Gorge Bridge holds the annual Bridge Day. Numerous BASE jumpers jump from the New River Gorge Bridge into the gorge at this exciting event. During Bridge Day, you can also enjoy live music, great local food, and fun vibes.
Address: US-19, Victor, WV 25938
How to Visit: Go whitewater rafting down the New River Gorge.
20. Congress Avenue Bridge, Austin, Texas
Recommended by Sierra of Very Truly Texas
Austin, Texas is home to the Ann W. Richards Congress Avenue Bridge, commonly referred to as “Bat Bridge”! Spanning over the beautiful Lady Bird Lake that runs through the city, the bridge is also home to over 1.5 million bats. Throughout the summer months, roughly from April through October, millions of Mexican free-tailed bats emerge at sunset for their night flight, making for quite the sight to see!
The Bridge is located in downtown Austin on Congress Avenue. Easily accessible by car, bike, ride share, or even on foot if staying downtown.
The best way to experience and photograph the bridge is in one of two ways. There is a dedicated pedestrian path that makes it easy to walk across the whole bridge with the river below and the Austin skyline in the background. For the most amazing bridge view though, definitely book a bat boat tour! Options range from a cozy boat ride to a more adventurous kayaking excursion with a guide to take paddlers to the best spot to watch the bats as they exit – it’s spectacular!
If music is preferred along with the bats, make sure to plan a visit in late August during Bat Fest! Drinks, food, and live music will make the show even more spectacular.
From the bridge, the nearby Ann and Roy Butler Trail makes for a great walk along the both bike and pedestrian path that runs beside the river. Follow Congress Avenue in search of an amazing taco truck or live music to enjoy downtown. Nearby Zilker Park and Barton Springs Pool are more iconic things to do in Austin!
Address: S Congress Ave, Austin, TX 78701
How to Visit: Take a Sunset Bat Watching Kayak Tour
21. Seven Mile Bridge, Marathon, Florida
Recommended by Hannah and Adam of Getting Stamped
The Seven Mile Bridge is located in Marathon, Florida, and although it is named Seven Mile, it is only actually 6.79 miles.
The bridge was originally created as part of the Overseas Railroad to connect the Florida Keys with the rest of Florida. Building over so many miles of water in a tropical climate had never been done. After a hurricane destroyed it, they rebuilt a new bridge for automobile traffic, parallel to the old bridge.
While the bridge is nice, it’s the views from the bridge that make it one of the most beautiful bridges in America. To get a great photo of the bridge and the surrounding turquoise waters, you will want to take a photograph using a drone. There are lots of things to do in Marathon, and you will want to visit the Old Seven Mile Bridge, which is a historic place and is currently used for walking, jogging, cycling, and is a great place for fishing off the pier.
A great place to catch a bite is at Sunset Grille & Raw Bar (pictured above), located at the foot of the bridge. As the name suggests, it’s a great place to catch the sunset but also a fun place to stop before/after crossing the bridge.
Address: 1090 Overseas Hwy, Marathon, FL 33050
How to Visit: Rent a Car from Miami, Florida
Other Things to Do Nearby: Florida Day Trips
Roundup of the most beautiful bridges in America
Who knew there were so many bridges in America worth creating entire vacations just to see? I’m looking forward to searching for these beauties across the 50 states. From Hawaii to New York, the Grand Canyon to the Keys, there’s a beautiful bridge for everyone to see.
