Bridges connect us. They span gaps and link communities, merging aesthetics, history, and engineering prowess. In America, the importance of bridges in our infrastructure cannot be understated. It’s important to know the states with the best bridges in America.
But what makes a bridge “the best”? It’s a blend of structural integrity, visual appeal, historical significance, engineering innovation, and environmental impact.
In this article, we’ll dive into the top 10 states with the best bridges in America, considering the ratio of good bridges compared to the total number of bridges in a state.
So, buckle up and get ready for a fun journey across America’s finest bridges!
1: Georgia – 74.8%
Welcome to Georgia, where Southern charm meets architectural excellence. This state is one of the states with the best bridges in America. It boasts a remarkable collection of bridges that not only impress with their design but also their structural integrity.
Notable Bridges
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Georgia boasts an impressive array of bridges. These architectural wonders blend engineering expertise with captivating design, creating vital connections across the Peach State.
- Talmadge Memorial Bridge. Spanning the Savannah River, this cable-stayed beauty connects downtown Savannah to Hutchinson Island. Its unique design and tall presence make it an unforgettable landmark.
- Dames Point Bridge. Soaring above the St. Johns River, the Dames Point Bridge is a striking sight with its beautiful cable design. This elegant structure exemplifies Georgia’s commitment to functional artistry.
Percentage of Good Bridges
Georgia’s investment in its infrastructure is evident in the high ratio of good bridges. Out of the state’s 15,034 bridges, 11,239 (or 74.8%), are determined as good.
2: Arizona – 62.8%
Arizona, the land of desert landscapes and astonishing natural wonders, also takes pride in its remarkable bridges. It is one of the states with the best bridges in America. Showcasing a blend of aesthetic design and structural excellence, these bridges harmoniously complement the state’s unique surroundings.
Notable Bridges
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Arizona boasts a beautiful array of bridges. These architectural gems blend harmoniously with the state’s unique surroundings, showcasing impressive design and engineering excellence.
- London Bridge. Originally built in England, the historic London Bridge was relocated to Lake Havasu City, Arizona, in the late 1960s. This curious sight adds a touch of European charm to the desert scenery.
- Navajo Bridge. A pair of steel arch bridges, this bridge spans the Colorado River in Marble Canyon near Lee’s Ferry. With unbelievable views, these engineering masterpieces provide a crucial link between Arizona’s north and south.
Percentage of Good Bridges
Arizona’s commitment to maintaining and protecting its bridges is shown in the high ratio of good bridges within the state. Out of the state’s 8,497 bridges, 5,334 (or 62.8%), are known as good.
3: Florida – 61.8%
Sunshine and sandy beaches aren’t the only things Florida has to offer. The state also boasts an array of impressive bridges, spanning its many waterways and enhancing its coastal charm.
Notable Bridges
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Florida offers a collection of remarkable bridges that enhance its coastal charm. These architectural marvels span the state’s many waterways, showing exceptional design and engineering.
- Seven Mile Bridge. As one of the world’s longest bridges, it connects Knight’s Key to Little Duck Key in the Florida Keys. This remarkable engineering feat offers beautiful views of the turquoise waters below.
- Sunshine Skyway Bridge. This iconic cable-stayed bridge spans across Tampa Bay, with its sleek design and tall pylons making it a true architectural marvel. The Sunshine Skyway Bridge is a testament to Florida’s innovative spirit.
- Bob Graham Sunshine Skyway Bridge. Named after a former Florida governor, this elegant cable-stayed bridge is the center of the Miami Intermodal Center. Its unique design and colorful lights at night make it a captivating sight.
Percentage of Good Bridges
Florida’s commitment to maintaining its bridges is evident in the high ratio of good bridges throughout the state. Out of the state’s 12,740 bridges, 7,871 (or 61.8%), are determined as good.
4: Ohio – 60.9%
Ohio, a state steeped in history and rich with natural beauty, is also home to a collection of extraordinary bridges. These structures blend engineering innovation with captivating design, making them both useable and easy on the eyes.
Notable Bridges
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Ohio is home to an array of extraordinary bridges. These impressive structures represent a fusion of engineering innovation and brilliant design, creating both useable and beautiful connections.
- Roebling Suspension Bridge. This bridge links Cincinnati, Ohio, with Covington, Kentucky. It stands as a historic landmark. Designed by John A. Roebling, who also designed the Brooklyn Bridge, this elegant structure is a testament to 19th-century engineering prowess.
- Main Avenue Bridge. This impressive cantilever truss bridge spans the Cuyahoga River in Cleveland. As the longest elevated roadway in Ohio, the Main Avenue Bridge is an enduring symbol of the state’s dedication to infrastructure and innovation.
Percentage of Good Bridges
Ohio’s investment in protecting and maintaining its bridges is evident in the high ratio of good bridges throughout the state. Out of the state’s 27,003 bridges, 16,437 (or 60.9%), are determined as good. This state is one of the states with the best bridges in America.
5: Minnesota – 58%
Minnesota, the Land of 10,000 Lakes, is a treasure trove of natural beauty and diverse scenery. Its impressive bridges, seamlessly connecting communities, are proof of the state’s architectural and engineering excellence.
Notable Bridges
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Minnesota is renowned for its impressive bridges. These remarkable structures effortlessly connect communities, reflecting the state’s architectural and engineering prowess.
- Stone Arch Bridge. Spanning the Mississippi River in downtown Minneapolis, the historic Stone Arch Bridge is a beloved landmark. Its graceful stone arches and picturesque setting make it a favorite among locals and visitors alike.
- Aerial Lift Bridge. An iconic symbol of Duluth, the bridge is a one-of-a-kind structure that raises and lowers to accommodate passing ships. This engineering marvel stands as a proud testament to Minnesota’s innovative spirit.
Percentage of Good Bridges
Minnesota’s dedication to protecting and maintaining its bridges is evident in the high ratio of good bridges throughout the state. Out of the state’s 13,497 bridges, 7,806 (or 58%), are determined as good.
6: Mississippi – 57.6%
Mississippi, a state steeped in history and natural splendor, also takes pride in its collection of remarkable bridges. These structures seamlessly blend functionality with captivating design, creating vital connections across the Magnolia State.
Notable Bridges
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Mississippi boasts an array of remarkable bridges that stand as symbols of architectural and engineering excellence. These structures not only serve as vital connections but also add charm to the Magnolia State’s scenery.
- Old Vicksburg Bridge. Spanning the mighty Mississippi River, the Old Vicksburg Bridge is an iconic cantilever bridge that once carried both rail and automobile traffic. Its historic charm and majestic presence make it an enduring symbol of Mississippi’s rich past.
- Biloxi Bay Bridge. The Biloxi Bay Bridge, rebuilt after Hurricane Katrina, stands as proof of Mississippi’s resilience. This modern cable-stayed bridge, with its sweeping views of the Gulf Coast, is both an architectural marvel and a symbol of hope.
Percentage of Good Bridges
Mississippi is one of the states with the best bridges in America. Mississippi’s commitment to protecting and maintaining its bridges is evident in the high ratio of good bridges throughout the state. Out of the state’s 16,782 bridges, 9,660 (or 57.6%), are determined as good.
7: Nevada – 57.2%
Nevada, known for its striking desert scenery and bustling cities, is also home to an array of remarkable bridges. These architectural masterpieces demonstrate innovative design and engineering expertise, creating essential connections across the Silver State.
Notable Bridges
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Nevada is home to a collection of remarkable bridges. These architectural wonders showcase innovative design and engineering expertise, creating essential connections throughout the Silver State.
- Hoover Dam Bypass Bridge. This awe-inspiring arch bridge spans the Colorado River, offering breathtaking views of the Hoover Dam. Its unique design and engineering accomplishments make it a must-see landmark.
- Galena Creek Bridge. It’s the world’s largest cathedral arch bridge and a stunning example of modern engineering. Nestled in the picturesque Sierra Nevada Mountains, this bridge is both an architectural marvel and an integral part of Nevada’s transportation infrastructure.
Percentage of Good Bridges
Nevada’s dedication to protecting and maintaining its bridges is reflected in the high rate of good bridges throughout the state. Out of the state’s 2,071 bridges, 1,184 (or 57.2%), are determined as good.
8: Kansas – 53.1%
Kansas is one of the top states with the best bridges in America. It boasts a selection of outstanding bridges. These architectural achievements demonstrate the perfect blend of engineering skill and aesthetic design, creating vital connections across the Sunflower State.
Notable Bridges
©iStock.com/BrianScantlebury
Kansas is home to a collection of exceptional bridges. These architectural masterpieces showcase a perfect fusion of engineering skill and aesthetic design, forging vital connections throughout the Sunflower State.
- Amelia Earhart Memorial Bridge. Named in honor of the legendary aviator, the Amelia Earhart Memorial Bridge spans the Missouri River, connecting Atchison, Kansas, to Buchanan County, Missouri. Its sleek, modern design is a striking addition to the scenery, and it serves as a symbol of progress and innovation.
- Rainbow Arch Bridge. A charming historic landmark in Baxter Springs, the Rainbow Arch Bridge is one of the few remaining Marsh Arch bridges in Kansas. Its elegant, curved design and rich history make it a must-visit destination for bridge enthusiasts.
Percentage of Good Bridges
Kansas’ dedication to protecting and maintaining its bridges is evident in the high rate of good bridges throughout the state. Out of the state’s 24,931 bridges, 13,231 (or 53.1%), are determined as good.
9: New Hampshire – 52.9%
New Hampshire, a state adorned with picturesque mountains and quaint villages, also takes pride in its collection of remarkable bridges. These architectural gems blend engineering prowess with captivating design, creating essential connections across the Granite State.
Notable Bridges
©iStock.com/Craig Zerbe
New Hampshire is home to an array of remarkable bridges. These architectural treasures combine engineering expertise with captivating design, creating vital connections throughout the Granite State.
- Frankenstein Trestle. A historic landmark nestled in the heart of the White Mountains, the Frankenstein Trestle is an impressive example of 19th-century engineering. Its striking presence amidst the lush scenery makes it a beloved destination for visitors and locals alike.
- Memorial Bridge. This bridge connects Portsmouth, New Hampshire, to Kittery, Maine. It’s proof of modern engineering and innovation. This vertical-lift bridge not only serves as a vital transportation link but also honors the memory of local veterans.
Percentage of Good Bridges
New Hampshire’s commitment to protecting and maintaining its bridges is evident in the high rate of good bridges throughout the state. Out of the state’s 2,531 bridges, 1,339 (or 52.9%), are determined as good.
10: Vermont – 52.5%
Vermont, a state renowned for its lush forests, rolling hills, and quaint charm, is also home to a collection of exquisite bridges. These architectural masterpieces showcase innovative design and engineering skills, creating essential connections across the Green Mountain State.
Notable Bridges
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Vermont is home to an assortment of striking bridges. These architectural wonders exhibit innovative design and engineering prowess, forging vital connections throughout the Green Mountain State.
- Cornwall-Salisbury Covered Bridge. One of the many covered bridges dotting the Vermont scenery, the Cornwall-Salisbury Covered Bridge is a charming wooden structure that evokes a sense of nostalgia. Its historic charm and picturesque setting make it a favorite among locals and visitors alike.
- Quechee Gorge Bridge. Spanning the breathtaking Quechee Gorge, this steel arch bridge offers stunning views of the surrounding scenery. The Quechee Gorge Bridge is both an architectural gem and a beloved Vermont landmark, showcasing the state’s natural beauty.
Percentage of Good Bridges
Vermont’s dedication to protecting and maintaining its bridges is evident in the high rate of good bridges throughout the state. Of the state’s 2,846 bridges, 1,493 (or 52.5%), are determined as good.
Wrapping Up
There you have it–a thrilling voyage across the top 10 states with the best bridges in America, considering good bridges as a rate of total bridges. These states stand as shining examples of architectural marvels, blending form and function in the most extraordinary ways. As we continue to build and preserve these vital connectors, let’s celebrate their beauty and ingenuity.
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