Johann Hunt
Bridges have an uncanny ability to fascinate us, integrating the art of engineering with the soul of a locale. They aren’t just about connecting point A to point B; they become cherished landmarks, scenic vistas, and even the occasional backdrop for a grumpy commuter’s venting session. It’s no surprise that bridges rank high on the list of most Instagrammed spots. We’ve journeyed across the country, pinpointing the most picturesque bridges in every state, and have compiled them just for you!
Alabama: Edmund Pettus Bridge
Let’s start our journey at the Edmund Pettus Bridge in Selma, which is more than just a crossing over the Alabama River; it’s a monument to civil rights history. This steel arch flyover gained national fame during the 1965 Selma to Montgomery marches, particularly on Bloody Sunday. Its iconic curved structure and poignant historical significance make it a must-see.
Alaska: Hurricane Gulch Bridge
The Hurricane Gulch Bridge spans a jaw-dropping 296 feet over a dramatic canyon, making it the tallest and longest bridge on the Alaska Railroad. If you’ve ever wanted to feel like you’re driving straight into an adventure movie, this is your spot. The views are unparalleled, with lush greenery in the summer and a snowy wonderland come winter.
Arizona: Glen Canyon Dam Bridge
This steel arch wonder stretches across the rusty red canyon and is seriously impressive. In 1965, they started building the Glen Canyon Dam to store water for states like Utah and New Mexico. When it was finished, it became a record-breaker at 1,271 feet long and 700 feet high—the tallest of its kind in the U.S. and one of the highest in the world.
Arkansas: Beaver Bridge
Arkansas brings us to the quaint and charming Beaver Bridge, often referred to as the Little Golden Gate. The historic one-lane suspension passage in Beaver, Arkansas, covers the White River and is as picturesque as they come. Thanks to its rustic wooden planks and the serene water below, it’s a favorite among photographers and romantics alike.
California: Golden Gate Bridge
Nothing embodies the “Land of Dreams” more than the Golden Gate Bridge in San Francisco. With its striking International Orange color, this world-famous bridge measures 1.7 miles and connects the city to Marin County. On a clear day, the views of the Pacific Ocean, Alcatraz Island, and the city skyline are simply breathtaking. Even on a foggy day, there’s something magical about the towers peeking through the mist.
Colorado: Royal Gorge Bridge
For those with a taste for adrenaline, Royal Gorge Bridge, famed for being America’s highest suspension bridge, soaring 956 feet above the Arkansas River, is the place to be. The views of the gorge are nothing short of spectacular, and if you’re brave enough to look over the edge, you’ll see the river carving its way through the canyon far below. It’s not just about the height; the scenery is pure Rocky Mountain splendor.
Connecticut: Arrigoni Bridge
Over in the Nutmeg State, the Arrigoni Bridge gracefully encompasses the Connecticut River, connecting Middletown and Portland. Constructed from 1936 to 1938, this steel-through arch platform holds the title of Connecticut’s costliest at $3.5 million. It’s named after Charles J. Arrigoni, a state legislator who really pushed for the project.
Delaware: Delaware Memorial Bridge
Delaware’s pride and joy is a twin suspension bridge that connects Delaware and New Jersey over the Delaware River. It’s the longest twin suspension flyover in the world, and driving across it feels like you’re heading straight into the sky. The view is fantastic, especially at night when the bridge is lit up, reflecting off the water below.
Florida: Seven Mile Bridge
Stretching out over the sparkling turquoise waters, this platform connects Knight’s Key to Little Duck Key, one of the longest bridges in the world, with endless ocean views. This landmark is actually made up of two different bridges. The older one has been around since 1912 and recently underwent a major makeover. It was closed for repairs for whole years but reopened in 2022.
Georgia: Talmadge Memorial Bridge Savannah
Above the fourth-busiest seaport in the U. S., you’ll find the Talmadge Memorial Bridge, a cool cable-stayed structure stretching from downtown Savannah to Hutchinson Island. It sits 184 feet above the river, letting those massive ships sail in smoothly. Sure, the industrial vibe is a bit different from the rest of Savannah’s cozy feel, but watching those huge ships glide under the flyover is one of the most stunning sights in Georgia.
Hawaii: Anahulu Stream Bridge
Burrowed in the quaint town of Haleiwa on Oahu’s North Shore, the Anahulu Stream Bridge is a charming white arch bridge against the backdrop of lush greenery and serene waters that adds a touch of classic beauty to the island’s vibrant landscapes. The overpass is a historical monument dating back to 1921.
Idaho: Perrine Bridge
Stretching over the Snake River Canyon near Twin Falls, it stands 486 feet above the river, making it one of the highest bridges in the United States. The view from the top? Absolutely breathtaking. The place is a hotspot for BASE jumping, so if you’re in the mood for an adrenaline rush or just want to watch some daredevils leap into the canyon, Perrine Bridge is the place to be.
Illinois: DuSable Bridge
Chicago, the Windy City, is home to the magnificent DuSable Bridge, also known as the Michigan Avenue Bridge. Stretching over the Chicago River, this double-deck bascule bridge is an important piece of history and an integral part of the city’s skyline. The intricate architectural details, including the sculpted pylons that tell tales of Chicago’s past, add to its grandeur.
Indiana: Cataract Falls Covered Bridge
This charming red bridge, built in 1876, spans Mill Creek near Indiana’s largest waterfall, Cataract Falls. Covered bridges have a way of whisking you back to simpler times, and this one is no exception. The wooden structure, surrounded by the lush greenery of the Lieber State Recreation Area, creates a serene and nostalgic atmosphere. If bridges could whisper secrets of the past, this one would have tales aplenty.
Iowa: High Trestle Trail Bridge
This one near Madrid, Iowa, presents a celestial experience, especially after sunset. The former railroad bridge turned pedestrian path features stunning 130-foot-tall decorative steel frames illuminated in blue at night, creating the illusion of walking through a tunnel of light. It stretches half a mile across the Des Moines River Valley and is one of the longest trail bridges in the country.
Kansas: Keeper of the Plains Bridge
In Wichita, the Keeper of the Plains Bridge is more than just a crossing point; it’s a cultural landmark. The bridge leads to a 44-foot-tall steel sculpture by Native American artist Blackbear Bosin, where the Arkansas River meets the Little Arkansas River. The suspension bridge offers fantastic views of the sculpture, especially when lit up by the “Ring of Fire” display in the evenings.
Kentucky: Big Four Bridge
Once a railroad bridge, the Big Four Bridge in Louisville is now a vibrant pedestrian and bicycle spot connecting Kentucky to Indiana over the Ohio River. Its colorful LED lights that dance at night make it a spectacle that attracts locals and tourists alike. The passage’s 2-mile round trip gives panoramic views of the Louisville skyline and the waterfront park.
Louisiana: Lake Pontchartrain Causeway
Everything is bigger in the south, and the Lake Pontchartrain Causeway proves it. Stretching nearly 24 miles, it’s one of the longest bridges over water in the world. This connects Metairie (a suburb of New Orleans) to Mandeville, delivering a surreal driving experience where, at times, all you see is water. On a clear day, it feels like you’re driving straight into the horizon.
Maine: Penobscot Narrows Bridge
It is more than just a crossing over the Penobscot River; it offers a sky-high view. This cable-stayed bridge, which opened in 2006, is notable for its 420-foot observation tower – the tallest public bridge observatory in the world. From the top, you get a panoramic view of the river, the surrounding forest, and even the nearby Fort Knox. It’s a sight that makes the climb (or the elevator ride) absolutely worth it.
Maryland: Chesapeake Bay Bridge
Officially known as the William Preston Lane Jr. Memorial Bridge, it’s a dual-span bridge connecting Maryland’s rural Eastern Shore with the urban Western Shore. The drive provides amazing views of the bay and is particularly breathtaking at sunrise or sunset. It’s a vital link for beachgoers heading to the Atlantic coast and promises a picturesque journey over one of America’s most significant waterways.
Massachusetts: Bridge of Flowers
Imagine a bridge so pretty it’s literally blooming! Welcome to the Bridge of Flowers in Shelburne Falls, Massachusetts. The former trolley bridge’s elegant arches are beautifully adorned with more than 500 different types of plants each season. Here’s a fun fact—it all started in the 1920s when residents decided to spruce up the old place with flowers.
Michigan: Mackinac Bridge
The Mackinac Bridge, or “Mighty Mac,” connects Michigan’s Upper and Lower Peninsulas. This behemoth crosses a whopping 5 miles, making it one of the longest suspension bridges in the world. And get this: it’s not just about length; the views are breathtaking! As you drive across, you’ll be treated to panoramic vistas of Lake Michigan and Lake Huron.
Minnesota: Lowry Avenue Bridge
Minneapolis knows how to blend modern design with functionality, and the Lowry Avenue Bridge is proof. They constructed a sleek, arched beauty that spans the Mississippi River and is incredibly mesmerizing at night when it’s all lit up in vibrant colors. Its LED lighting system makes it a standout, which showcases vibrant rainbows during Pride month, glowing pink for breast cancer awareness, and illuminating red, white, and blue for the Fourth of July.
Mississippi: Old Vicksburg Bridge
The Old Vicksburg Bridge over the Mississippi River is a charming piece of the past built in the 1930s. It once carried both vehicles and trains, though it’s now retired from vehicular traffic. The steel trusses and latticework are a nod to classic American bridge design. The cool part is that once a year in October, they open it up for a five-mile run called the Over the River Run.
Missouri: Chain of Rocks Bridge
Now, here’s a bridge with a twist, literally! The Chain of Rocks Bridge, spanning the Mississippi River, features an unusual 22-degree curve at its center. Originally part of Route 66, it’s now a pedestrian and bike trail, perfect for a leisurely stroll or ride. The bridge provides spectacular views of the river and the St. Louis skyline.
Montana: Koocanusa Bridge
Montana’s Koocanusa Bridge is the longest and tallest one in the state, but trust us, it’s not intimidating at all. The pale green color matches perfectly with the glassy waters of Lake Koocanusa below. It’s almost like it disappears into the scenery. Crossing it feels like a secret passage leading you straight into the beautiful Yaak Valley, full of lush forests and tranquil lakes.
Nebraska: Bob Kerrey Pedestrian Bridge
Have you heard of the bridge everyone calls “Bob”? It’s this fantastic s-shaped pedestrian-only bridge that stretches 3,000 feet over the Missouri River, giving you fabulous views of downtown Omaha. What’s really cool is that it’s the first of its kind to link two states—Nebraska and Iowa. You can walk right from Nebraska into Iowa, and it even arches into the beautiful, leafy area of Council Bluffs.
Nevada: Mike O’Callaghan-Pat Tillman Memorial Bridge
If you thought the Hoover Dam was impressive, wait until you see the Mike O’Callaghan-Pat Tillman Memorial Bridge. It soars above the Colorado River, dishing vertigo-inducing views of the Hoover Dam as well as Lake Mead. It’s the highest concrete arch bridge in the Western Hemisphere and is named after former Nevada governor and NFL star killed in service in Afghanistan in 2004.
New Hampshire: Cornish-Windsor Covered Bridge
It stands out for being the longest wooden bridge in the U.S.! It stretches 460 feet across the Connecticut River between Cornish and Windsor, Vermont. Not only is it on the National Register of Historic Places, but it’s also the longest two-span covered bridge in the world. This platform is a classic example of the timber truss design that was all the rage in early New England.
New Jersey: Pulaski Skyway
Here’s the thing: this bridge, which connects Jersey City with Newark, might just be the most snapped in Jersey. Why? Last June, commuters were practically weeping with joy when it reopened after a brutal four years of construction. Built in 1932, it handles a whopping 74,000 cars a day. Remember the opening credits of The Sopranos? Yep, that’s the Pulaski Skyway running 3.5 miles over the Passaic and Hackensack Rivers.
New Mexico: Rio Grande Gorge Bridge
Suspended 565 feet above the Rio Grande, it isn’t just a bridge; it’s a steel symphony spanning a 1,280-foot gorge. With panoramic views that will make you feel like an eagle soaring over the canyon, this passage is downright breathtaking. If heights make you uneasy, consider stopping at one of the visitor centers to take in the view from a safer vantage point.
New York: Brooklyn Bridge
A masterpiece of 19th-century engineering, the Brooklyn Bridge, with its gothic arches and steel cables, has served as the setting for numerous film scenes and romantic strolls. Did you know it was the world’s first steel-wire suspension bridge? Walking across it presents sweeping vistas of the Manhattan skyline, a glimpse of the Statue of Liberty, and the ever-bustling East River.
North Carolina: Lake Lure Flowering Bridge
If you thought bridges were just steel and concrete, think again. The Lake Lure Flowering Bridge in North Carolina is a blooming show of creativity. Once a car bridge, it’s now a pedestrian haven lined with lush gardens. Imagine strolling through a floral wonderland with the serene Lake Lure in the background. It’s like walking through a Monet painting, but better because it’s real.
North Dakota: Hi-Line Bridge
In North Dakota, the Hi-Line Bridge is the towering giant you never knew you needed to see. It is over 3,860 feet long and stands 162 feet above the Sheyenne River Valley. Built in 1908, it was once the longest and highest bridge of its kind in the world. During the Second World War, the flyover made transportation easier for supplies and soldiers across the river, enabling coast-to-coast movements.
Ohio: Roebling Suspension Bridge
Designed by John A. Roebling, the same genius behind the Brooklyn Bridge When it first opened in 1866, the iconic structure in Cincinnati held the title of the world’s longest suspension bridge. Its majestic blue towers and sweeping cables are a photographer’s dream. And let’s not forget the view—it connects downtown Cincinnati to Covington, Kentucky, providing stunning vistas of the Ohio River.
Oklahoma: Skydance Bridge
The Skydance Bridge stands out on this list for two reasons: it doesn’t cover any body of water and uniquely combines sculpture and bridge elements. Inspired by the state bird, the scissor-tailed flycatcher, this structure is a stunning 380-foot-long pedestrian pathway that seems to take flight over the I-40 highway. At night, it lights up in a dazzling array of colors, making it look like something out of a futuristic movie.
Oregon: Astoria-Megler Bridge
Connecting Oregon to Washington over the mighty Columbia River, the Astoria-Megler Bridge stretches an impressive 4.1 miles and is North America’s longest continuous truss bridge. The views of the river, the distant mountains, and the ever-present seabirds are enough to make anyone appreciate the beauty of the Pacific Northwest.
Pennsylvania: Sachs Covered Bridge
This charming red bridge dates back to 1854 and is steeped in Civil War history. It was constructed in 1854 and served both Union and Confederate troops during the harrowing Battle of Gettysburg. Ghost hunters take note—rumor has it soldiers from the Battle of Gettysburg haunt the bridge to this day. Spooky or not, it’s undeniably beautiful.
Rhode Island: Claiborne Pell Bridge
Often called the Newport Bridge, this legacy covers the East Passage of Narragansett Bay, which connects the town of Jamestown to the city of Newport. The bridge’s elegant towers and sweeping cables are stunning, especially at sunrise or sunset when the sky puts on a color show. Recognizing this spot without the typical backdrop of numerous sailboats is a challenge, as it is nearly always captured with a fleet of sails in the foreground.
South Carolina: Arthur Ravenel Jr Bridge
Did you know South Carolina is all about food, history, and beaches? Skyscrapers, not so much. So, it’s kind of cool that the tallest thing in the state is actually a bridge. The cable-stayed towers of this beauty soar 573 feet over the Cooper River. When it opened in 2005, it was the biggest cable-stayed bridge in North America. It connects Charleston to Mt. Pleasant, taking over from the old Grace Memorial and Pearman bridges.
South Dakota: Chamberlain Rail Bridge
The original Chamberlain Bridge was built way back in 1925. It was part of a set of five similar bridges crossing the Missouri River. But with more trucks on the road and the Fort Randall Dam changing things up, they had to construct a new one using parts from the old bridges. When you drive across, you’ll still see some old pilings—if you’re not zooming by too fast, that is.
Tennessee: Walnut Street Bridge
The Walnut Street Bridge in Chattanooga is a pedestrian’s paradise. Constructed in 1891, this bridge ranks among the world’s longest pedestrian pathways. It stopped letting cars cross back in ’78 and has been pedestrian-only ever since. In 1990, it earned a spot on the National Register of Historic Places, but significant renovations only began in the early 2010s.
Texas: Margaret Hunt Hill Bridge
Designed by the acclaimed Santiago Calatrava, it feels like it stepped out of a futuristic sci-fi film. Its sleek, arching pylon and sweeping cables are not just structurally impressive but also a feast for the eyes. Nighttime is when this passage really shines—literally. In 2012, after almost seven years of building, the 1,870-foot bridge was completed, with an estimated cost exceeding $180 million.
Utah: Hite Crossing Bridge
Before they built the Glen Canyon Dam, settlers used to ferry or ford across the Colorado River at Cataract Canyon. But then Lake Powell’s water level rose, and they needed a new, higher bridge. That’s when Hite Crossing came into play. It’s a stunning 735-foot arch bridge on State Route 95, soaring 200 feet above the water. While they don’t recommend stopping, if you do, the view from up there is one of the best in the state.
Vermont: Silk Covered Bridge
Known for its picturesque landscapes, it’s no surprise that it also has one of the most charming bridges—the Silk Covered Bridge. This quaint, red-covered bridge has been hanging out over the Walloomsac River since the 1840s and is 88 feet of pure charm with its intricate latticework inside. In the fall, the whole platform turns this gorgeous orange-red and just blends right into the stunning autumn leaves around it.
Virginia: Chesapeake Bay Bridge-Tunnel
Imagine driving on a bridge that stretches an incredible 17.6 miles from one shore to the other. At one point, you actually dip underwater through tunnels supported by man-made islands—how cool is that? When you pop back up, you’re still cruising along this amazing bridge. Back in 1964, the American Society of Civil Engineers was so captivated by the ingenious design that they honored it as one of the seven engineering marvels of the modern era.
Washington: Bridge of the Gods
You might think it’s a bit of a stretch to give such a grand name to a cantilever truss bridge that’s under 2,000 feet long, right? But when you see it encompassing the gorgeous Columbia River, you’ll get it. The name is a nod to an ancient land bridge from the Bonneville Landslide that was around the same area and was named by Native Americans.
West Virginia: New River Gorge Bridge
If you’re ever in Fayetteville, check out the New River Bridge. It’s this massive arch bridge right by the Rocky Mountains and is the fourth-largest of its kind in the world! Every year, they host this insane event called Bridge Day, where people rappel, bungee jump, and BASE jump off into the New River below. It’s wild and draws a huge crowd—like tens of thousands of people.
Wisconsin: Cedarburg Covered Bridge
In Wisconsin, the Cedarburg Covered Bridge, built in 1876, is the last remaining covered bridge in the state, which used to have over 40 of these beauties. Made from weathered pine and oak with that classic latticed interior, you’ll find it crossing Cedar Creek in Cedarburg, Ozaukee County. It’s a real piece of history and a cool spot to check out if you’re ever in the area.
Wyoming: Fishing Bridge
Last but certainly not least, Wyoming’s Fishing Bridge in Yellowstone National Park is a nature lover’s haven. This flyover spans the Yellowstone River and is famous for—you guessed it—fishing! Sadly, the cutthroat trout population, which uses this area for spawning, saw a significant decline, and it got so bad that they had to ban fishing altogether.