The Arthur Ravenel Jr. Bridge is a huge connector with a modern design and spectacular views of the Cooper River and Drum Island. It is among the world’s largest cable-stayed bridges, with two diamond-shaped pillars from which the cables extend. Walk to the center of the bridge for photo opportunities of the scenic river and the marinas and parks on either side of the structure.
The bridge, including the approach, is 2.5 miles (4 kilometers) long. Gaze up at the tall central pillars that reach 575 feet (175 meters) in the air. Travel across the bridge by car, bike or on foot in one of the designated lanes. Stop in the middle to enjoy the view and revel in being so high above the water. Watch the sunset over the water, as the sky begins to adopt golden hues.
Sign up in advance to join more than 20,000 others in the annual Cooper River Bridge Run on the first weekend in April. The bridge is part of the USA Track & Field 6.2-mile (10-kilometer) course. The 10K event attracts numerous elite runners and includes many pre-race and post-race activities.
View the impressive structure from the grassy fields of Patriots Point. See the bridge at night, when street lights illuminate it and generate dramatic reflections in the river. Naval ships, tankers and ocean freighters pass beneath the bridge, which was designed to withstand shipping accidents. Take a boat ride under the bridge for additional interesting views.
Learn about the construction of the bridge, which took place over a period of 4 years before completion in 2005. Around 78,000 vehicles cross the structure daily. Its name comes from the congressman who worked to find the funds to build this bridge to replace a former unsafe structure.
The Arthur Ravenel Jr. Bridge crosses Drum Island and the Cooper River in the northeastern part of Charleston. It runs from the downtown area to Mount Pleasant. Visit nearby attractions, such as Seabreeze Marina, Mount Pleasant Memorial Waterfront Park and Patriots Point.
