The most beautiful bridge in Florida is finally open again after more than five years of renovations.
The historic Old Seven Mile Bridge, a beloved two-mile stretch over crystal clear waters between Marathon and Pigeon Key, offers access to some of the most beautiful scenery and wildlife in the USA.
Back when it was built in 1912, this stretch of bridge was a marvel. Part of the Florida Keys Overseas Railroad, the engineering feat linked the Florida Keys to the mainland for the first time ever. When railroad operations ceased and the bridge was retired, the 2.2-mile stretch became a fishing pier and recreational zone consistently packed with people. It was even listed on the National Register of Historic Places.
The bridge closed in 2017 to undergo renovations to ensure the structure’s safety and preservation. Now that it’s back, you can once again walk, bike, jog or rollerblade along the bridge. Keep an eye out for rays, sharks and sea turtles in the clear water below as well as pelicans, osprey and other birds in the sky.
The bridge also gets you access to the tiny, idyllic five-acre island of Pigeon Key where you can snorkel or fish from the pier. The island features a marine science center, a museum and original buildings from the time when railroad workers lived there.
Needless to say, crowds gathered to witness the reopening just as they did when the original railroad bridge was completed. Once called the “Eighth Wonder of the World,” the historic bridge is back to provide one-of-a-kind recreation opportunities. Even better, a 60-passenger tram to take visitors back and forth to Pigeon Key is expected to launch this spring.
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