This Is the Longest Bridge in the USA

Some bridges in this country can get pretty impressive, but only one is the longest bridge in the USA.

Can you guess where it’s located?

Let’s take a look at this behemoth and learn more about it!

What Is the Longest Bridge in the USA?

The longest bridge in the USA is the Lake Pontchartrain Causeway. Not only is this bridge the longest in the country, but it also holds another fun title.

In fact, Lake Pontchartrain Causeway is the longest continuous bridge over water in the entire world. 

About Lake Pontchartrain Causeway

The first phase of the Lake Pontchartrain Causeway finished up in 1956, with the second phase following in 1969. The bridge is a prestressed concrete trestle bridge with a joint bascule. It consists of 9,500 concrete pilings. 

The longest bridge in the USA connects Mandeville, Louisiana, to Metairie, Louisiana. Metairie is a close suburb of New Orleans. The bridge allows the residents of Mandeville to access the city 50 minutes faster than they would otherwise. About 12 million vehicles utilize the causeway each year. 

For about eight miles of the 24-mile bridge, you can’t see land at all. There’s a bascule drawbridge at the 16-mile mark allowing watercraft to pass through safely. Traffic must come to a complete stop in both directions to allow for this.

Fair warning, there are no shoulders on the bridge, so drivers need to be extra cautious of stalled vehicles. 

Pro Tip: After cruising across the longest bridge, head over to to New Orleans. This is How to Spend a Day in New Orleans, Louisiana.

How Long Does It Take to Drive Across Lake Pontchartrain Causeway?

With the Lake Pontchartrain Causeway being 24 miles long, you can cross it in about 25 minutes in ideal conditions.

On foggy days when the bridge might go down to a single lane with a reduced speed, it could take up to 45 minutes.

Is It Scary to Drive Across the Longest Bridge in the USA?

While it may seem intimidating to drive across the bridge, it isn’t terrifying. The bridge remains relatively low and doesn’t soar above the water like bridges like The Mighty Mac.

High-profile vehicles such as tall RVs or large box trucks might find crossing a bit scary due to high crosswinds. If you feel the winds are too blustery for your comfort, wait a few hours for them to calm.

Do You Have to Pay a Toll to Cross Lake Pontchartrain Causeway?

Only those traveling southbound will pay a toll to cross the Lake Pontchartrain Causeway. There’s a $5 toll for passenger cars headed south.

A four-axle truck and trailer combo will pay $18 to cross the bridge. Northbound passengers don’t pay. 

How Does It Compare to the Longest Bridge in the World?

While the Lake Pontchartrain Causeway holds the title of the longest bridge in the USA (and longest continuous bridge over water in the world), it isn’t the world’s longest. The record for the longest bridge goes to the Danyang-Kunshan Grand Bridge in China. It stretches an impressive 102 miles long. It took four years for more than 10,000 people to build this almost $10 million bridge. 

Pro Tip: While it might not be the longest bridge, we have found the most historically interesting bridge option! Check out The Original London Bridge in Arizona.

What Is the Second Longest Bridge in the USA?

The second-longest bridge in the USA is the Manchac Swamp Bridge. You can find it in Louisiana along Interstate 55 and U.S. Route 51 over the Manchac Swamp. It’s a close second to the Lake Pontchartrain Causeway at 23 miles. 

What Is the Third Longest Bridge in the USA?

The third-largest bridge in the USA is the Atchafalaya Basin Bridge, also in Louisiana. The bridge spans 18 miles over the Atchafalaya Basin. At the time of its completion, it was the longest bridge in the USA.

While it has lost that title, it remains a prominent bridge in the south. 

Is the Longest Bridge in the USA Worth a Visit?

Being able to say you’ve crossed the longest bridge in the USA is a fun party topic. Crossing the bridge offers a scenic view of the lake.

While there’s nothing to do other than enjoy the view while making the crossing, the bridge is an important crossing for the people of Louisiana.

Have you had the chance to cross the Lake Pontchartrain Causeway?

Discover the Best Free Camping Across the USA

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