Seven Mile Bridge | Florida Keys

Information

Landmark: Seven Mile Bridge
City: Florida Keys
Country: USA Florida
Continent: North America

Seven Mile Bridge, Florida Keys, USA Florida, North America

The Seven Mile Bridge is a bridge in the Florida Keys, USA, connecting Marathon to the Lower Keys.

Visual Characteristics

The bridge consists of two parallel structures. The older, original bridge, completed in 1916, is a concrete arch bridge. The newer bridge, completed in 1982, is a concrete segmental bridge. Both structures span approximately 7 miles (11 km) and are elevated over the Atlantic Ocean and Florida Bay.

Location & Access Logistics

The bridge is part of U.S. Route 1 (Overseas Highway). It is located approximately 100 miles (160 km) south of Miami and 45 miles (72 km) northeast of Key West. Access is via U.S. Route 1. Parking is available at designated pull-offs on both the Marathon and Lower Keys sides of the bridge. Public transport is limited to the Keys Shuttle bus service, which operates along U.S. Route 1.

Historical & Ecological Origin

The original bridge was constructed as part of Henry Flagler's Overseas Railroad, completed in 1916. Its purpose was to facilitate rail transport. The newer bridge was built to accommodate vehicular traffic and improve safety standards. The surrounding waters are part of the Florida Keys National Marine Sanctuary, supporting coral reefs and diverse marine life.

Key Highlights & Activities

The older bridge section, now known as the Old Seven Mile Bridge, is accessible for walking and cycling. Fishing is permitted from designated sections of the old bridge. The newer bridge is for vehicular traffic only. Observation points are available at both ends for viewing the structure and surrounding waters.

Infrastructure & Amenities

Restrooms are available at the parking areas at both ends of the bridge. Shade is limited to the parking areas. Cell phone signal (4G/5G) is generally available. Food vendors are not directly on the bridge but are located in nearby Marathon and the Lower Keys.

Best Time to Visit

For photography of the bridge structure, early morning or late afternoon provides optimal lighting. The best months for weather are typically December through May, with lower humidity and less rainfall. Tidal conditions do not directly impact access to the bridge itself.

Facts & Legends

A section of the original bridge was famously used as a filming location for the James Bond movie "Licence to Kill." The bridge's construction was a significant engineering feat, overcoming challenges posed by hurricanes and the marine environment.