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Square & Landmark

Chesapeake Bay Bridge

📍 US 50, Annapolis, MD 21401, USA
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3.5/ 5.0
★★★★☆

Quick Facts

Location
USA, Maryland
Category
Square & Landmark
Duration
30分钟
Address
US 50, Annapolis, MD 21401, USA
Coordinates
38.9916, -76.3752

Introduction

The Chesapeake Bay Bridge, officially named the William Preston Lane Jr. Memorial Bridge, is an iconic dual-span bridge crossing the Chesapeake Bay in Maryland. Stretching approximately 4.3 miles, it is one of the longest over-water bridges in the United States and carries U.S. Route 50, connecting Maryland's Eastern Shore with the western mainland. Driving across offers breathtaking panoramic views of the vast bay, with sailboats dotting the sparkling waters and distant shorelines fading into the horizon. Recognized as one of the Seven Engineering Wonders of the World, the bridge handles millions of vehicles annually and serves as the primary gateway to Ocean City, Annapolis, and the Eastern Shore resorts. Scenic pull-offs allow travelers to pause and admire spectacular sunrises and sunsets over the bay.

✨ Highlights

1
Engineering Marvel
One of the longest over-water bridges in the U.S., spanning 4.3 miles and ranked among the Seven Engineering Wonders of the World
2
Dual-Span Design
Consists of two parallel bridges: the eastbound span opened in 1952 and the westbound span in 1973
3
Panoramic Bay Views
Offers 360-degree views of the Chesapeake Bay with sparkling waters and sailboats
4
Key Transportation Route
Carries U.S. Route 50, serving as the primary gateway to Ocean City and Eastern Shore resorts
5
Scenic Pull-Offs
Designated viewing areas allow travelers to admire sunrises, sunsets, and seabirds
6
Prime Fishing Spot
Surrounding waters are popular for catching blue crabs and striped bass

🛈 Practical Info

→Toll：Eastbound toll approximately $4 for cars (E-ZPass discounts available)
→Access：U.S. Route 50 connecting Annapolis and Kent Island
→Best Time to Visit：Spring and fall offer pleasant weather; summer weekends have heavy traffic
→Duration：10-15 minutes driving across, 30 minutes for scenic stops
→Note：High winds may restrict travel; check conditions before departure
→Opening Hours：Open 24 hours daily, year-round

💡 Tips

• Get an E-ZPass for toll discounts and to avoid cash lane queues
• Summer weekends and holidays are busy; travel during off-peak times
• A pull-off area before the eastbound span allows parking for photos
• Strong crosswinds are common; keep both hands on the wheel
• Visit historic Annapolis or Kent Island fishing villages nearby

FAQ

What are the opening hours of Chesapeake Bay Bridge?

Open 24 hours daily, year-round

Any practical tips for visiting Chesapeake Bay Bridge?

Get an E-ZPass for toll discounts and to avoid cash lane queues Summer weekends and holidays are busy; travel during off-peak times

How long should I spend at Chesapeake Bay Bridge?

A typical visit takes 30分钟.