Bridges in the United States are more than just pathways—they’re iconic landmarks that define cities and states.
From the towering steel cables of the Brooklyn Bridge in New York City to the striking International Orange of San Francisco’s Golden Gate Bridge, these structures showcase cutting-edge engineering and timeless design.
Each bridge tells a story of innovation and connection, linking communities and shaping skylines.
Spanning vast distances and challenging natural obstacles, America’s most famous bridges have become symbols of strength and progress.
Whether it’s the historic charm of the Brooklyn Bridge or the engineering marvel of Florida’s Seven Mile Bridge, these landmarks draw millions of visitors and continue to inspire awe.
1. Golden Gate Bridge
The Golden Gate Bridge, completed in 1937, connects San Francisco to Marin County across the Golden Gate Strait. It stretches 1.7 miles and is famous for its striking International Orange color and Art Deco design.
This suspension bridge was a major engineering achievement for its time and remains a symbol of innovation.
Visitors can walk or bike the pedestrian walkway to experience stunning views of the bay and city skyline. Its iconic presence continues to define San Francisco’s identity and attracts millions annually.
2. Mackinac Bridge
Spanning 26,372 feet, the Mackinac Bridge connects Michigan’s Lower and Upper Peninsulas over the Straits of Mackinac.
Completed in 1957, it stands as the Western Hemisphere’s longest suspension bridge between two towers, with a central span of 1,158 meters.
Known as “Big Mac” or “Mighty Mac,” it replaced ferry services, easing traffic significantly.
Crossing Lake Huron and Lake Michigan, this engineering marvel carries thousands of daily drivers along Interstate 75. Its simple design belies its massive scale, making it a vital and iconic link in the Great Lakes region.
3. Brooklyn Bridge
Completed in 1883, the Brooklyn Bridge stands as one of America’s most iconic engineering feats. Spanning 1.1 miles, it connects Manhattan and Brooklyn, serving as a vital transport artery.
In 1884, a parade of 21 elephants famously crossed it to prove its strength. Designated a National Historic Landmark in 1964, the bridge blends Gothic-style arches with innovative cable-stayed design.
Visitors enjoy panoramic views from its pedestrian walkway, making it a must-see symbol of New York City’s architectural heritage and urban identity.
4. Seven Mile Bridge
Spanning the Florida Keys, the Seven Mile Bridge stretches approximately 7 miles, connecting Knight’s Key in the Middle Keys to Little Duck Key.
Recognized as an engineering marvel, it provides a critical link on the Overseas Highway to Key West.
Originally built in the early 1900s as part of the Florida East Coast Railway, the modern bridge, completed in 1982, replaces the old structure for vehicular traffic.
It features stunning ocean views and blends functionality with scenic beauty, representing an iconic symbol of Florida’s coastal infrastructure and attracting countless travelers seeking breathtaking drives over turquoise waters.
5. Sunshine Skyway Bridge
Spanning 21,877 feet across Tampa Bay, the Sunshine Skyway Bridge connects Bradenton and St. Petersburg, Florida.
It features a striking cable-stayed design inspired by France’s Brotonne Bridge and is officially named after former Governor Bob Graham.
Recognized as one of the Top 10 Bridges in the World by the Travel Channel, it boasts panoramic water views and serves as a vital route for commuters and tourists alike.
Despite its turbulent history, the bridge stands as an iconic symbol of Florida’s engineering prowess and coastal beauty.
6. New River Gorge Bridge
Stretching 3,030 feet across West Virginia’s Appalachian Mountains, the New River Gorge Bridge stands as an engineering marvel completed in 1977.
It shortened travel time by cutting a hazardous 40-minute drive through mountain trails to under one minute. The bridge offers breathtaking views of New River Gorge National Park and serves as a vital transportation link in Fayette County.
It’s renowned for its sweeping arch design, blending functionality with scenic beauty, making it both a practical structure and an iconic American symbol. Also, it’s famous worldwide as a hotspot for extreme sports events like BASE jumping.
7. George Washington Bridge
Spanning the Hudson River, the George Washington Bridge connects Manhattan, New York, to Fort Lee, New Jersey. Opened in 1931, it was once the world’s longest main span suspension bridge at 3,500 feet.
Serving over 100 million vehicles annually, it is a critical commuter artery on Interstate 95 and the busiest motor vehicle bridge worldwide. Its double-deck design expanded traffic capacity, easing congestion significantly.
Known for its steel towers and striking urban backdrop, the bridge symbolizes the connection between two major metropolitan areas and remains an engineering landmark in American infrastructure.
8. Bixby Creek Bridge
Bixby Creek Bridge in California is a stunning example of engineering and natural beauty. Completed in 1932, it spans 714 feet across a deep coastal canyon along the Pacific Coast Highway.
Its graceful arch design blends seamlessly with the rugged Big Sur landscape, making it one of the most photographed bridges in the USA.
This reinforced concrete arch bridge not only provides a critical route for travelers but also symbolizes the harmonious integration of infrastructure and environment along the dramatic California coastline.
9. Royal Gorge Bridge
Standing 955 feet above the Arkansas River, the Royal Gorge Bridge in Colorado was the tallest suspension bridge globally when completed in 1929.
Spanning 1,260 feet across a stunning gorge, it combines steel cables with hardwood planks, blending durability and old-world charm.
Rebuilt after a 2013 wildfire, it’s now the centerpiece of a 360-acre park featuring gondolas, sky coasters, and ziplines.
The bridge offers breathtaking canyon views and attracts thrill-seekers and tourists alike, showcasing engineering excellence amid natural beauty.
10. Delaware Memorial Bridge
Spanning 2.04 miles, the Delaware Memorial Bridge links Delaware and New Jersey with two suspension spans carrying eight lanes of traffic. Built in 1951, it serves as a crucial transportation corridor, easing regional commutes and commerce.
Its dedicated pedestrian walkways offer scenic river views, enhancing the crossing experience. Honoring service members from WWII, Vietnam, and Korea, the bridge stands as a memorial symbolizing sacrifice and unity.
Striking lighting displays during holidays highlight its cultural importance while reinforcing its role as an engineering and regional landmark.
Alicia Richards