A Royal Presence in the Desert: Exploring Lake Havasu City's London Bridge Located on the Arizona-California border, Lake Havasu City is a fascinating desert oasis that has drawn visitors from far and wide with its unique charm and attractions.
A Royal Presence in the Desert: Exploring Lake Havasu City's London Bridge
Located on the Arizona-California border, Lake Havasu City is a fascinating desert oasis that has drawn visitors from far and wide with its unique charm and attractions. One of the city's most iconic landmarks is Lake Havasu City's London Bridge, a 19th-century bridge that was disassembled in England, shipped to the United States, and rebuilt in this Arizona desert town.
10 Fun Facts About Lake Havasu City's London Bridge
- Rebuilt from scratch: The original London Bridge was dismantled in 1967 due to structural issues. Robert P. McCulloch, the developer of Lake Havasu City, purchased the bridge for $2.4 million and had it shipped to Arizona.
- Transatlantic journey: The bridge's 3,500 tons of stone and steel traveled over 5,000 miles across the Atlantic Ocean on a cargo ship called the MV Aegina.
- Rebuilt in record time: It took just six months to reassemble the bridge in Lake Havasu City. The construction process was completed in 1971.
- Original architecture preserved: Despite being rebuilt in a different location, the original London Bridge's architecture and design have been meticulously preserved.
- A unique piece of history: Lake Havasu City's London Bridge is one of only two original pieces of the old London Bridge still standing. The other is a section that was preserved in London.
What to Expect
When visiting Lake Havasu City's London Bridge, you can expect:
- Breathtaking views: The bridge offers stunning views of the surrounding lake and desert landscape.
- Unique architecture: Take in the intricate stone carvings, ornate ironwork, and other architectural details that reflect the bridge's rich history.
- Tourist attractions: Surrounding the bridge are various shops, restaurants, and tourist attractions that cater to visitors.
Practical Tips
Before planning your visit:
- Check hours of operation: Contact Lake Havasu City Visitor Center for information on operating hours and availability.
- Plan your itinerary: Consider combining a visit to London Bridge with other attractions in the area, such as Lake Havasu State Park or the London Bridge Resort.
Practical Information
If you're interested in visiting Lake Havasu City's London Bridge:
- Hours: Contact Lake Havasu City Visitor Center for information on operating hours and availability.
- Location: The bridge is situated in the heart of Lake Havasu City, near the intersection of AZ-95 and McCulloch Blvd.