Discover the Iconic London Bridge in Lake Havasu City, Arizona
When you think of the London Bridge, your mind likely wanders to the city of London, England. However, one of the world's most famous bridges actually resides in a surprising location—Lake Havasu City, Arizona!
London Bridges Past
The London Bridge you see in Lake Havasu City today has a rich and captivating history. Originally constructed in 1831, the bridge spanned the River Thames in London. Over the years, it became evident that the bridge was sinking into the riverbed due to the weight of modern traffic and needed to be replaced.
With a bold move, the bridge was purchased by American entrepreneur Robert P. McCulloch in 1968. He envisioned that this bridge would become a tourist attraction for his community, located in the Arizona desert. The bridge was meticulously dismantled, each stone numbered, and shipped to the United States, where it was reconstructed on the shores of Lake Havasu.
Fun Facts About the London Bridge in Lake Havasu City
Stone by Stone: Each of the original granite stones was carefully numbered and transported over 5,400 miles to Arizona, where they were reassembled like a giant jigsaw puzzle.
Engineering: The reconstruction of the bridge took three years, from 1968 to 1971. It was rebuilt over a specially dredged canal from Lake Havasu, creating a charming waterfront setting.
Time Capsule: During the dismantling process, a time capsule from 1831 was discovered within the bridge’s structure. This time capsule included old coins and documents, offering a glimpse into the past.
Haunted Tales: Local legend has it that the bridge is haunted by the ghosts of those who perished during its original construction in London. Visitors have reported strange occurrences and ghostly sightings! Read more about the time that the Ghost Adventures visited the bridge, here!
Guinness World Record: The London Bridge holds the distinction of being the largest antique ever sold. Its sale and relocation are documented in the Guinness Book of World Records.
Visiting the London Bridge Today
Lake Havasu City, located in western Arizona along the Colorado River, is a popular destination for tourists looking to explore the London Bridge. The bridge serves as the centerpiece of the city’s waterfront district, offering a range of activities and attractions!
Whether our family is out on the boat or looking for a spot for dinner we somehow always find ourselves having fun by the bridge on our weekends in Havasu! If you’re looking for a place to stay, check out our luxury vacation properties!
Things to Do:
Explore the Bridgewater Channel: Take a stroll along the Bridgewater Channel, where you can enjoy views of the bridge and the surrounding area!
Boat Tours and Water Activities: Lake Havasu is a hub for water sports and boating. Rent a boat, jet ski, or paddleboard to explore the lake and get a unique perspective of the London Bridge from the water.
Dining and Shopping: The area around the bridge is filled with charming shops, restaurants, and cafes. One of our favorite activities in Havasu is enjoying a nice meal (with a view) at one of the waterfront eateries or browsing in the local boutiques.
Historical Tours: Learn more about the history of the London Bridge with guided tours that provide detailed anecdotes about the bridge’s journey from London to Arizona!
How to Get There
Lake Havasu City is accessible by car and offers parking for visitors! The city is around a three-hour drive from both Las Vegas, Nevada, and Phoenix, Arizona, making it a convenient day trip or weekend getaway!
Check out the London Bridge:
London Bridge
1340 McCulloch Blvd, Lake Havasu City, AZ 86403
Whether you're a history buff or simply looking for a unique travel experience, the London Bridge in Lake Havasu City is a must-visit destination. Come and discover this piece of history in the heart of the Arizona desert!
We have a place for you
If you’re looking for a place to say near the London Bridges, explore our Vacation Rental Properties in Lake Havasu City.