Have you ever heard the rumor that there is a London Bridge in Arizona? And even more bizarrely, that you can drive over it?
Well, I’m here to tell you that the rumors are true! But before you go packing your bags and heading out west, let’s dive into the details of this interesting piece of history.
London Bridge: A Brief History
The original London Bridge was built in the 12th century and served as a vital crossing point over the River Thames in London. However, by the 19th century, it had become too congested and was deemed unsafe for modern traffic. In 1967, the bridge was sold to an American entrepreneur named Robert P. McCulloch who had a grand plan to transport it across the Atlantic and rebuild it in Arizona.
The Move
Moving a bridge from one continent to another is no easy feat. The bridge had to be dismantled brick-by-brick and transported via ship to Long Beach, California. From there, it was loaded onto trucks and driven over 300 miles to Lake Havasu City, Arizona where it was rebuilt over a man-made canal.
Driving Over London Bridge in Arizona
Today, London Bridge serves as a major tourist attraction for Lake Havasu City. Visitors can walk or drive over the bridge while taking in stunning views of Lake Havasu.
However, there are some restrictions when it comes to driving over the bridge. Only one lane of traffic is allowed at a time and there is a speed limit of 15 mph.
Conclusion
So there you have it – driving over London Bridge in Arizona is not just a myth but an actual reality! While it may not be as historic or iconic as its counterpart in London, this unique piece of architecture has certainly found a new home in the desert southwest.
- Tip: If you plan on visiting, be sure to check out the London Bridge Visitor Center for more information on tours and events.
- Fun Fact: The rumor that McCulloch thought he was buying Tower Bridge instead of London Bridge is just that – a rumor. He knew exactly what he was getting!
So, what are you waiting for? Add driving over London Bridge in Arizona to your bucket list and experience this fascinating piece of history for yourself.