Crossing the River: A not-so-serious guide to Philadelphia's Bridges
Ah, Philadelphia. City of Brotherly Love, cheesesteaks, and...bridges? That's right, folks, Philly boasts a collection of bridges that would make any infrastructure enthusiast giddy. But fear not, history buffs and casual tourists alike, this guide will have you navigating the Schuylkill and Delaware Rivers like a pro (or at least point you in the right direction without getting you hopelessly lost).
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| What Bridge Is In Philadelphia |
The Grand Dame: The Benjamin Franklin Bridge
Let's start with the big cheese (or should we say cheesesteak?): the Benjamin Franklin Bridge. This iconic suspension bridge, nicknamed "Ben," stretches majestically across the Delaware River, connecting Philly to Camden, New Jersey. Fun fact: when it opened in 1926, Ben was the world's longest suspension bridge! These days, it might not hold the top spot, but its grandeur and stunning nighttime illumination are sure to impress.
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Pro tip: If you're feeling adventurous, you can actually walk or bike across the pedestrian path on Ben's upper level. Just be prepared for some amazing views and maybe a slight case of vertigo (it is pretty high up there!).
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Schuylkill Shenanigans: A Rundown of the Rest
Philly isn't a one-bridge town, not by a long shot. Over on the Schuylkill River, you'll find a whole bunch of bridges, each with its own unique charm (and traffic woes, let's be honest). Here's a quick snapshot of some of the Schuylkill's stars:
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- The Walt Whitman Bridge: The "twin" to Ben on the Schuylkill, Walt Whitman Bridge is another suspension bridge with a healthy dose of traffic. But hey, at least you get stunning views of Boathouse Row while you're stuck in a jam.
- South Street Bridge: This vibrant bridge is a local favorite, especially known for its artistic flair and the occasional rogue skateboarder. Just watch out for pedestrians and hold on tight!
- G.S. Platt Memorial Bridge: This one's a beaut, especially at night when it's all lit up. Plus, it offers a sweet view of the Schuylkill River Park.
Remember: This is just a taste of the many bridges that grace Philadelphia's rivers. There are railroad bridges, historic bridges, and even a bridge shaped like a spider (yes, you read that right).
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So, uh, Which Bridge Should I See?
Well, that depends! If you're looking for an iconic landmark and a chance to walk across a historic structure, then Ben Franklin Bridge is your guy. But if you're feeling a bit more adventurous, check out the quirky South Street Bridge or the scenic G.S. Platt Memorial Bridge.
Ultimately, the best bridge in Philadelphia is the one that gets you where you need to go... with a little bit of sightseeing fun along the way.
Frequently Asked Bridge-y Questions
- How to get to the Benjamin Franklin Bridge? There are many ways to reach Ben! You can drive, take the PATCO train, or even walk or bike across the pedestrian path.
- How long is the Walt Whitman Bridge? Walt Whitman Bridge clocks in at a whopping 3,652 meters, making it a bit longer than its cousin Ben.
- Is it safe to walk across the South Street Bridge? Generally, yes, but keep an eye out for traffic and pedestrians.
- Where can I find a list of all the bridges in Philadelphia? A quick web search for "Philadelphia bridges" should give you a comprehensive list.
- Is there a bridge in Philadelphia shaped like a spider? Believe it or not, yes! The aptly named "Spider Bridge" is located at Falls of Schuylkill.
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