23 Bridges In FLORIDA (Scenic, Durable, & Functional)

Due to its position in the southeast of the United States, Florida has great bridges that are primarily functional with scenic views for you to enjoy.

Florida borders the Atlantic Ocean to the north and the Gulf of Mexico to the south, making it an ideal site for bridges that link various parts of the state.

Several bridges in Florida also perform necessary transportation and commercial roles and link major urban centers, making traveling between different parts of a state simple.

Bridges are an integral part of Florida’s infrastructure, contributing to the state’s booming economy and improving the standard of living for locals and tourists alike.

Here are the 23 Florida bridges that will capture your eyes and hearts from different designers’ and constructors’ inventiveness and originality.

And by the way, you may also want to check out the best Lakes in Florida.

Bridges In Jacksonville, Florida

1. St. Elmo W. Acosta Bridge

St. Elmo W. Acosta Bridge features six transportation lanes, two gondola paths for the Jacksonville Skyway, two pedestrian walkways, and spans with the two-track Jacksonville Skyway in midway and sidewalks.

Jacksonville Transportation Authority began a $2.6 million project to replace the inoperable neon lights with LED lights at night which obtained financing for the bridge from City Councilman St. Elmo W. Acosta.

The stunning blue neon lights lit up the Acosta Bridge, making it more distinctive, and the bridge frequently sticks in the up position.

When you visit, you will see stunning cityscapes with classical sculptures of prominent people around the bridge’s niches.

The LED lights will also display many colors, which will surely level up your adventure, so bring your family and friends for a fun bridge tour!

Address: Acosta Bridge, Jacksonville, FL 32202, USA

2. Henry H. Buckman Bridge

Named after the influential person and prominent legislator in establishing a state road system in the state, Henry Holland Buckman, this bridge opened in 1970.

The bridge has four lanes in each direction on a three-mile span across the St. John’s River and has a therapeutic horizon of the Henry H. Buckman Bridge that will put you at ease.

Waterfront homes, beautiful cityscapes along the bridge, and dedicated bike lanes for bikers are also available, making it fun for cyclists.

But you must be careful if you’re planning to ride a bike on the bridge as many big vehicles also transport through it since it has become an important transportation route.

Capture an amusing landscape of city lights at dusk because the bridge offers a picturesque view of the city, and city lights make the night more beautiful and vibrant.

Address: The Buckman Bridge, Jacksonville, FL 32257, USA 

3. Fuller Warren Bridge

An eight-lane, 1-4 mile long bridge across the St. Johns River, Fuller Warren Bridge is one of Florida’s prominent bridges sponsored by the Florida Department of Transportation (FDOT) that opened it publicly in April 2000.

The bridge can carry approximately 100,000 vehicles per day, and the bridge’s railing has artistic features that tourists and residents enjoy.

It is a $126 million project with many traffic lanes and a new shared-use path to the bridge dedicated to pedestrians and bicyclists, connecting the San Marco and Riverside neighborhoods.

The 12-foot-wide shared-use path used by pedestrians and cyclists is on the south side of the bridge, separated from traffic by a fence.

Traffic can be tiring, but the view around will make the waiting game a perfect relaxation, so you’ll never have to worry.

Address: Interstate 95, Jacksonville, FL 32204, USA 

4. Hart Bridge

A well-marked bridge is waiting for you here in Jacksonville carrying the U.S. Route 1 Alternate and State Road 228, Hart Bridge is undoubtedly full of dignified values.

Its span is 141 feet above St. Johns, and its length is 3,844 feet, connecting Downtown Jacksonville to Riverside, making it a significant transportation route.

Along the way, you’ll be mesmerized by the magnificent views in passing of Metropolitan Park, the sports arena, Downtown, Daily’s Place, and North Florida Shipyard.

It was designed by Sverdrup & Parcel and named after the founder of Jacksonville, Isaiah Hart, making it a bridge with a stunning niche design and a heady aroma from a cafe nearby cafe that mesmerizes every passerby.

Some movie directors also picked the bridge as one of their background scenes, so this is your time to visit and have a fun tour.

Address: Commodore Point Expy, Jacksonville, FL 32207, USA 

5. John T. Alsop Jr. Bridge

Walk or drive across this beautiful bridge in the downtown area of Jacksonville, built by the Cunningham Brothers of Beloit, renowned for its massive vertical lift spans.

Daniel Luten, an expert bridge builder, designed the bridge.
For $1.5 million, the bridge started its operation in July 1941, offering an aesthetic appearance.

John T. Alsop Jr. Bridge connects the Southbank to Downtown Jacksonville for an easy and accessible transportation route.

It is a baby blue bridge with LED lights and a streamlined appearance, making it a perfect location for photography sessions such as weddings, prenups, birthdays, anniversaries, and other events.

The bridge includes a metal board lift span, and the other lift span is an arch approach span, designed as a cohesive block with vertical end posts at the poles.

Address: Jacksonville, FL 32202, USA

6. Dames Point Bridge

Residents consider Dames Point Bridge the best bridge in Jacksonville and an incredible feat of engineering since the bridge is one of the largest cable-stayed bridges in the United States, with a main span of 1,300 feet and 175 feet high.

It utilizes approximately 20 miles of cables to ensure its safety and functionality, connecting the New Berlin and Arlington boroughs of Jacksonville, seeing 72,000 cars and trucks daily.

The reviews the tourists write about the place are good because the bridge serves as a route and offers a scenic route of picturesque views of nature.

You’ll never forget your trip along the bridge, from its harp-style cable arrangements to its beautiful scenic view.

Crossing the bridge, you’ll experience a vibrant sunset while taking in the street lights, glowing fast automobiles, and a warm orange sky.

Address: E Beltway 295, Jacksonville, FL 32226, USA 

7. Mathews Bridge

The Mathews Bridge, built in 1953, is considered the answer to the city’s need for downtown access from more than two access with a 1.4-mile-long cantilever truss bridge with an asymmetrical appearance when viewed from the river.

In 1984, the bridge was silver in color; however, constructors repainted it maroon in 1984 to celebrate the inception of the United States Football League franchise.

The bridge’s inspiration of its name was the prominent person who raised funds to construct the bridge, John E. Mathews, and continuous through truss spans give the bridge a well-built tunnel-like experience while driving over it.

While Merritt-Chapman and Scott Corporation built the bridge, Bethlehem Steel Company manufactured it, which also functions as a high-level bridge for boats.

Enjoy your sublime and unforgettable trip when you visit Jacksonville!

Address: Arlington Expy, Jacksonville, FL 32206, United States

Also see our article on Swimming Pools in Florida.

Bridges In Miami, Florida

1. MacArthur Causeway

The stunning six-lane MacArthur Causeway connects Miami’s business district with Miami Beach ever since the bridge’s construction in 1917 and when the beach underwent a resort-like transformation.

February 17, 1920, was the date of its development, measuring 3.5 miles in length overall, functioning as a route connecting cities.

You will pass by numerous breathtaking sights along the bridge trip, including stunning cityscapes, eye-catching city lights, and vivid structures!

Find Big Bus Tours if you feel like exploring the bay because after crossing the causeway, they will bring you to the beach’s bright shores, which you will surely enjoy.

You will go by the affluent homes on Palm Island, Dodge Island, and Star Island, the elite area where some famous people live, and there are racing vehicles that swerve across traffic at high speeds.

Address: 980 MacArthur Cswy. Miami, FL 33132, USA

2. Venetian Causeway Bridge

When the drawbridge goes up, Venetian Causeway Bridge is a rest stop for tourists in the city, and it is also a route by bike or foot in Miami.

Also, the bridge lengthens approximately 1,200 meters, depending on where you park, with decent views with minimal slopes, allowing you to enjoy the gorgeous water sightings and beautiful landscapes along the way.

Along the bridge are a sidewalk and dedicated bike lanes making it accessible by car, foot, and bike, perfect for strolls, runs, and bike rides.

However, you have to pay if you want to park on the west side.

This bridge is perfect for local traffic, pedestrians, and cyclists, and remember that there are only gorgeous architecture, passing boats, and unspoiled nature—neither vending machines nor shops are present.

Address: North Atlantic Ave, Miami, FL 33132, United States

3. Brickell Avenue Bridge

A bascule bridge that carries U.S. Route 1 424.2 feet over the Miami River, with a 53-foot bronze monument commissioned by the Florida Department of Transportation in the center.

It was named after Roy F. Kenzie, the Executive Director of Miami’s Downtown, and honors Miami’s early founders and pioneers, Julia Tuttle, Marjory Stoneman Douglas, Henry Flagler, and William and Mary Brickell by installing bas inscriptions on the bridge’s assisting pilings.

Talking about a walk along Brickell’s waterfront is excellent as the bridge offers a walking path along the famous Biscayne Bay, and you can also better see the city’s picturesque landscapes with a cup of joe or watch the fishing boats and yachts along the bay while taking your dog for a walk.

Address: 448-482 SE 2nd Ave, Miami, FL 33131, USA

4. Collins Bridge

Collins Bridge opened on June 12, 1913, allowing several real estate advancements on the peninsula’s outskirts, initiated by John S. Collins.

Because he wanted to connect his beach to the mainland, he continued to pursue the bridge project with 2,100 wood pile foundations spanning 2.5 miles and a 24-foot wide plank supporting the base.

Collins Bridge is considered the world’s longest wooden vehicular bridge, and residents would ride their bikes and bring their dogs here to watch the sunset.

The bridge’s colorful city view was once a highlight and helped fishermen during the night, and people used to ride their bikes and jog while eating and relaxing.

Thirteen years later, someone bought the bridge, and only months after it opened, Venetian Island and Causeway overtook it.

Address: 760 Collins Ave, Miami, FL 33139, USA

Also see our article on Indoor Water Parks in Florida.

Bridges In Fort Myers, Florida

1. Caloosahatchee Bridge

The government decided to widen the bridge for city enhancement and better mobility making it four lanes and 55 feet tall, protecting the environmental encroachments and enhancing the industry for people.

The constructors of the bridge used components for the piling, beam, and pile caps, ensuring the safety and functionality of the bridge.

Trestle construction and two straddle cranes for the fabricated bridge sections near the riverbank exist, and to reduce some traffic snarls and improve people’s safety, GPS manages the bridge’s cranes.

Centennial Park and First Street are along the bridge while liking the main road throughout downtown Fort Myers and a loop ramp connecting the southbound bridge lanes to First Street.

The historical Five Points interchange is a two-lane overpass that builders constructed, crossing the bridge’s intersection.

Address: Fort Myers, FL 33903, USA

2. Matanzas Pass Bridge

Witness how the sun shines in Fort Myers on Matanzas Pass Bridge or be amazed by the 65-foot tall concrete girder bridge that crosses over San Carlos Island.

After its completion, it was considered the tallest bridge in Lee County; however, its title was passed to the Sanibel Causeway in 2007.

The bridge also has two traffic lanes, one is for southbound traffic, and one is for northbound traffic, with a pedestrian lane on the rest of the bridge and a concrete barrier that ensures people’s safety.

Before entering Estero Island, you will come across the Matanzas Harbor, with many fishing boats and piers, which is a fantastic location to unwind.

According to locals, the morning vista is a must-see, and you should take it.

Address: 511 San Carlos Blvd, Fort Myers, FL 33931, USA

3. Cape Coral Bridge

The Cape Coral Bridge has four lanes providing east to west connection with the Cape Coral Parkway and College Parkway across the Caloosahatchee River.

Lee County Department of Transportation is the bridge’s owner and made two 3,400-foot-long fixed spans that run parallel with a limit of 45 meters per hour.

It began its traffic operations in 1964 with a toll of 25 cents, but in 1975, it decided to remove the toll for a more accessible route and makes life easier for locals.

Currently, there is a two-dollar toll for westbound vehicles, but there are no tolls for eastbound traffic.

Also, bicycle lanes are dedicated to cyclists, and enough areas for pedestrian lanes to ensure the safety of all passersby on the bridge since it is a significant transportation route.

Several sources say the plans to renovate the bridge are ongoing, and the renovation may begin in 2026.

Address: Lee County, 1500 Monroe St, Fort Myers, FL 33901, USA

4. Edison Bridge

The Edison Bridge is 55 feet tall in Fort Myers, carrying northbound and southbound traffics with approximately 19,000,000 pounds of stainless components and over 2,500,000 pounds of reinforcement bars going into the bridge’s pier; roughly 65,000 cubic yards of masonry helped the underpinnings.

The famous Thomas Alva Edison, a city resident, was the bridge’s name inspiration and the founder of the Ford Motor Company.

The bridge’s dedication happened on Thomas’ 84th birthday celebration, and after the ribbon cutting, he was also riding the first car to pass across the bridge.

The bridge has two-lane bridges; one carries northbound traffic, and the other carries southbound traffic over the Caloosahatchee River and carries U.S. 41 Business Route, connecting downtown Fort Myers with North Fort Myers.

Address: Fort Myers, FL 33916, USA

Also see our article on Water Parks in Florida.

Bridges In Orlando, Florida

1. Lake Formosa Bridge

The Lake Formosa Bridge is a scenic road with many pure nature landscapes, which tourists love, and it is considered the longest wooden pedestrian bridge in the city.

You will be overwhelmed by the number of flowers surrounding the bridge, and here you can see a variety of plants, flowers, tiny trees, and other natural beauty.

Pick a floral outfit paired with vintage garments if you want to visit here for more appealing pictures, and the landscapes are picturesque; you’ll be amazed at how they maintained their beauty.

You can also bring snacks and other refreshments to enjoy walking on the wooden bridge with your family, friends, and even dogs while smelling the floral aroma of the place.

The view during sunrise and sunset is undoubtedly pleasing, so better prepare your cameras!

Address: 1801 Alden Rd, Orlando, FL 32803, USA 

2. Lake Sherwood Bridge

The bridge is a compelling pedestrian bridge of Lake Sherwood and is one of the city’s most beautiful wooden bridges, surrounded by verdant greenery that captivates its visitors.

It offers views of the lake with its surrounding residential; however, you need to be careful while crossing the pedestrians because the water in this lake fluctuates.

The structure uses timber planks for water flows and follows the course of the lake, and when water is low, you’ll see many tracks, off-road trails on the south, and clean centipedes on the north side.

You can bike, walk, jog, work out, run, and stroll from the east side or even bring your dogs here since the breeze is extra clean and fresh, perfect for refreshing after a tiring day.

Address: W Colonial Dr, Orlando, FL 32818, USA 

Also see our article on Water Park Resorts in Florida.

Bridges In Sarasota, Florida

1. John Ringling Causeway

John Ringling Causeway is a segmental box-girder bridge named after John Ringling, and it is a 65-foot tall bridge opened in 2003 for traffic at approximately $68 million.

The bridge extends past Sarasota Bay, St. Armands Key, and Lido Key, with gorgeous views of the bay, and is perfect for a tour in the city with your friends while sipping a cup of tea or coffee when passing.

Here you can walk, jog, and drive as there are 60 new lights on all bridge columns, creating a lively light show.

Note that there are no shaded benches and shelters; wear sunglasses and sunscreens for sun protection, and the bridge has many exposed areas.

When the sun sets, the bridge’s atmosphere is frosty, and remember your cameras to capture the stunning bay views and amusing panoramas.

Address: John Ringling Causeway, Sarasota, FL 34236, USA

2. Stickney Point Bascule Bridge

The Stickney Point Bascule Bridge has a sealed vertical clearance of 18 feet and a horizontal clearance of 90 feet, and if you’re curious how the bridges open, they use a longhorn signal and a short horn signal.

The bridge is open seven days a week, 24 hours a day, and residents advise driving slowly along the marked limits and keeping a close eye on the road.

During weekends and holidays, boat traffic can be heavy even though the bridge is approximately 1,314 feet long and 16 feet wide at its narrowest point.

Locals walk, jog, and bike across the bridge throughout the day, making it prominent.

Moreover, the bridge is a terrain blemish and an emblem of modern Sarasota, providing residents with dazzling sunrise and sunset panoramas.

Address: 1968 Stickney Point Rd, Sarasota, FL 34242, USA

Also see our article on Aquariums in Florida.

Bridges In Fort Lauderdale, Florida 

1. Las Olas Boulevard Bridge

On Las Olas Boulevard, a cantilever bridge crosses the Intracoastal Waterway and is traversed by the easternmost part, starting on a barrier island.

Along the way, you will see many yachts crossing over the residential neighborhoods of Seven Isles and Hendricks, and Venice Isles.

The bridge has pedestrian walkways that are arched to keep pedestrians away from cars, and it also has many vibrant window shop displays across the bridge.

From the many restaurants for every palate to the twinkling city lights, a trip to this bridge will not disappoint you, and be ready to be amazed by the massive mural of a Leaping Sailfish by Guy Harvey hanging on the side of the bridge.

Are your cameras ready for a trip with picturesque cityscapes?

Address: 2732-2780 E Las Olas Blvd, Fort Lauderdale, FL 33316, USA 

2. Fort Lauderdale Bridge Sunrise Boulevard 

The 90-foot-long Fort Lauderdale Bridge Sunrise Boulevard has a central span, is a 25-foot closed vertical bridge, and has a regulated operating schedule near Port Everglades.

It opens at 7 a.m., Monday through Friday, and people and vehicles safely traverse the Intercoastal Waterway every day.

Take in the splendor of neighboring structures and waterways on the four viewing platforms that protrude from the bridge and be astounded by the numerous LED lights, giving the impression of a lighting competition place that adds to its aesthetic vibe.

The fritted glass and prefabricated steel canopies on the bridge provide morning shade from the tropical sun as many residents wander and view the bridge.

Bring your loved ones along for the tour so they can also appreciate the trip!

Address: 2854 E Sunrise Blvd, Fort Lauderdale, FL 33304, USA 

Also see our article on Haunted Houses in Florida.

Bridges In Marathon, Florida

1. Seven Mile Bridge

The Seven Mile Bridge is a 35,863 ft or 6.79 miles bridge, engineered by Figg and Muller Engineers, and they finished the bridge six months before schedule, earning eight awards.

Also, the bridge swings in an arc and offers a 65-foot-high clearance for boat transit, and it has a 440-span box-girder construction of prefabricated and shear wall pieces; the remaining portion is much closer to the water.

Movie directors picked this bridge to feature in their films, and among these are “License To Kill,” “True Lies,” “Fast and Furious,” and “Mission Impossible III.

Check this bridge out if you’re a fan of architecture because the bridge’s design is impressive; from the lively sea colors to the artistic scenery, you’ll be in love with every bit of your trip here!

Address: Mile Marker 47 Overseas Hwy, Marathon, FL 33050, USA 

2. Pigeon Key

Pigeon Key is a two-lane highway constructed over Henry Flagler’s old railroad tracks with safety barriers, and a rough wooden stairway that curves down to the island is on the side of the rattling railway line.

Going here and taking in the sunset would be a fantastic way to escape life’s pressures because you can see the crystal blue water below and the blue sky above.

Bike lanes for cyclists are also available, and you can bring your dogs with you for a better experience.

There’s a tiny tram available for the Pigeon Key tour, don’t even think of skipping it; the antique features will amuse you, so you can also take pictures with it.

Note that for Pigeon Key tours, you don’t have to pay for their entrance.

Address: 1090 Overseas Hwy, Marathon, FL 33050, USA

If you liked this article, you may also like to read about the best Train Rides, Botanical Gardens, and Movie Theaters in Florida.

Looking beyond Florida? Check out our article on the best Bridges in Illinois and New York’s most Majestic Bridges.