Arlington Memorial Bridge at Sunrise
This beautiful Neoclassical bridge, designed by the architectural firm of McKim, Mead &ÌýWhite, symbolizes a unified nation by linking two sites honoring leaders of the Civil War— Lincoln’s Memorial on the D.C. side andÌýRobert E. Lee Memorial, Arlington House, located in Arlington National Cemetery on the Virginia shore.Ìý
Image: istockphoto.com
View of the Virginia Shore
Whether on the Lincoln Memorial grounds gazing across the Potomac River to the rolling hills, taking in the vast expanse of hallowed ground, or from the hill in front of Arlington House, which offers one of the best sweeping views of D.C.ÌýThe panoramic views across the Memorial Bridge are impressive from either direction.
Image: Wikimedia
Bridge Construction
When on his way to the dedication of the Tomb of the Unknown Soldier on November 11, 1921, President Harding’s motorcade was stuck on the previous wooden bridge for three hours as it attempted to cross the Potomac River. Shortly after, Harding reportedly took a personal interest in getting the previously-inactive commission up and running again.ÌýCongress authorized construction on theÌýbridge in 1925 and the bridge was dedicated in 1932.Ìý
Image: Library of Congress
Views from the Bridge
The 0.4-mile walk across the Memorial Bridge to Arlington offers some of the most unforgettable views of D.C. It can be an ambitious walk, especially when the temperatures are high or the winds are cold, but if the weather is right the rewards are wonderful.ÌýViewers are treated to distinctive viewsÌýof the Kennedy Center and Georgetown, as well as the monuments on the Mall.
Image: Dena Kennett
Generous Pedestrian Space
AnotherÌýreason the walk is so temptingÌýis the generous 15-foot-wide sidewalks on both sides of the bridge, which areÌýframed by stone railing at about shoulder height, which areÌýperfect for viewing over, yet substantial enough to provide a strong sense of security. Traffic is relatively slow-moving given drivers slow down to take in the views. There are even seats along the walk so you can comfortably pause.
Image: Dena Kennett