There is nothing that says “Michigan” more than the Mackinac Bridge. This iconic engineering marvel has linked Michigan’s two peninsulas since November 1, 1957. The Mackinac Bridge is currently the seventh-longest suspension bridge in the world by total suspended length, and the longest suspension bridge in the western hemisphere.
The Mighty Mac was conceived by bridge designer and engineer David B. Steinman, who is considered among the world’s foremost bridge designers. He and his associates built more than 400 bridges on five continents during his career, including the International Bridge that connects Sault Ste. Marie, Michigan, with Sault Ste. Marie, Ontario, Canada.
Because the Mighty Mac is a suspension bridge, it was designed to adjust to many factors, including high winds and temperature fluctuations. The deck at the center span of the bridge can move 35 feet east or west when under severe weather conditions.
To guarantee bridge safety, routine maintenance and inspections are performed continuously. For additional information about the construction of the bridge, to check on bridge conditions, or to view the Live Bridge Cam, visit the Mackinac Bridge Authority online at www.mackinacbridge.org.
The Mackinac Bridge does close under rare circumstances, like extremely high, sustained winds or falling ice. While you probably won’t have to worry about a closure during your summer visit, you can subscribe to text alerts regarding bridge closures by texting MacBridge to 67283.
Did You Know?
The Mackinac Bridge Authority replaces the steel grating that comprises a portion of the main deck. Throughout the year, the MBA sells pieces from old grating to the public. Check www.mackinacbridge.org for more information about buying one of these unique souvenirs.
Best Views
Discover the Details | |
| • Total length of bridge: 5 miles / 26,732 feet | • Total weight of bridge: 1,024,500 tons |
| • Height of main towers above the water: 552 feet | • Total number of steel rivets: 4,851,700 |
| • Height of roadway above the water at midspan: 199 feet | • Bridge construction began: May 7, 1954 |
| • Number of wires in each cable: 12,580 | • Bridge open to traffic: November 1, 1957 |
A great place to view the Mackinac Bridge is from Bridge View Park, just west of the Mackinac Bridge toll plaza. On-site is an enclosed observation pavilion that has information and exhibits inside about the history and construction of the bridge. The park also offers public restrooms, picnic tables and grills, and a telescope that allows for up-close views.
Straits State Park offers a unique, head-on view of the bridge that can be accessed by a short trail leading from camp sites through a wooded area to an open viewing point.
Head west along US-2 a few miles outside of town, and you’ll find a roadside park with an unobstructed view of the Mackinac Bridge from a high vantage point. Stop and have lunch at one of the picnic tables and take in the view.
Want to walk directly underneath the Mackinac Bridge? Stop at Colonial Michilimackinac Historic State Park in Mackinaw City. From here, you can walk directly under the bridge and get an up-close look at the structure.
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