You Won't Believe Where the Original London Bridge Is (Spoiler Alert: It's Not in London!)
Think of London. What pops into your head? Big Ben? Buckingham Palace? Double-decker buses perpetually stuck in traffic? Maybe even... a bridge?
Yes, bridges! London has a plethora of them, each with its own history and charm. But there's one particular bridge that's been the subject of much confusion (and maybe a few wrong pub quizzes). We're talking about the OG London Bridge, the one that's seen it all, from horse-drawn carriages to... well, let's just say it's seen a lot.
So, where is this legendary landmark residing these days? Buckle up, because you might need to adjust your mental map. The answer is... Arizona!
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| What Us State Has The Original London Bridge |
Yep, You Read That Right: Arizona!
That's right, folks. The original London Bridge, the one that spanned the River Thames for over a century, is now chilling in the desert sunshine of Lake Havasu City, Arizona. How did this architectural odyssey happen? Well, it all goes back to the swinging sixties. The bridge, built in the 1830s, was deemed a bit too quaint for London's growing traffic needs. Enter Robert P. McCulloch, a businessman with an adventurous spirit (and perhaps a touch of eccentricity). He bought the bridge in 1968, brick by brick, and shipped it across the Atlantic.
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Why Arizona, you ask? Apparently, McCulloch was developing Lake Havasu City and figured a genuine London Bridge would be a real tourist draw (and boy, was he right!). So, if you ever find yourself in Arizona with a hankering for a bit of British history, look no further than Lake Havasu City. Just don't expect foggy mornings and fish and chips. You might get sunburn and a killer jet ski ride instead.
Fun Facts About the Not-So-London London Bridge
- It took three years and $2.5 million to disassemble, ship, and reassemble the bridge in Arizona.
- The bridge serves as a pedestrian walkway and tourist attraction, not a busy traffic artery like it used to be.
- There's even a pub underneath the bridge, keeping the British tradition alive (sort of).
Burning Questions Answered: London Bridge in Arizona FAQ
How to get to the London Bridge in Arizona?
Lake Havasu City is about 150 miles northwest of Phoenix. You can fly into Phoenix Sky Harbor International Airport and rent a car, or take a road trip and enjoy the scenery!
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How much does it cost to visit the London Bridge?
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There's no charge to visit the bridge itself, but there may be fees for parking or specific events happening around the bridge.
Can you walk across the London Bridge in Arizona?
Tip: Stop when you find something useful.
Absolutely! The bridge is now a pedestrian walkway, perfect for taking in the views of Lake Havasu.
What else is there to do in Lake Havasu City?
Lake Havasu City is a popular spot for water sports like boating, jet skiing, and fishing. There are also plenty of options for hiking, golfing, and exploring the desert landscape.
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Is there anything typically British in Lake Havasu City besides the bridge?
Well, there's the aforementioned pub under the bridge, but beyond that, embrace the Arizona vibes! You might be surprised by the unexpected cultural mashup.
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