The Landscape Architect’s Guide to

Arlington Memorial Bridge

Your Guide

The proposal to build Arlington Memorial Bridge was brought before Congress almost constantly beginning in 1886. But it was the 1902 McMillan Plan, a document that guided development in and around D.C. for the next century, that helped make it a reality. Although World War I stopped the project from moving forward, D.C.’s first traffic jam brought the project back to life.

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Arlington Memorial Bridge at Sunrise

This beautiful Neoclassical bridge, designed by the architectural firm of McKim, Mead & White, symbolizes a unified nation by linking two sites honoring leaders of the Civil War— Lincoln’s Memorial on the D.C. side and Robert E. Lee Memorial, Arlington House, located in Arlington National Cemetery on the Virginia shore.

Image: istockphoto.com bridge2

View of the Virginia Shore

Whether on the Lincoln Memorial grounds gazing across the Potomac River to the rolling hills, taking in the vast expanse of hallowed ground, or from the hill in front of Arlington House, which offers one of the best sweeping views of D.C. The panoramic views across the Memorial Bridge are impressive from either direction.

Image: Wikimedia bridge3

Bridge Construction

When on his way to the dedication of the Tomb of the Unknown Soldier on November 11, 1921, President Harding’s motorcade was stuck on the previous wooden bridge for three hours as it attempted to cross the Potomac River. Shortly after, Harding reportedly took a personal interest in getting the previously-inactive commission up and running again. Congress authorized construction on the bridge in 1925 and the bridge was dedicated in 1932.

Image: Library of Congress bridge4

Views from the Bridge

The 0.4-mile walk across the Memorial Bridge to Arlington offers some of the most unforgettable views of D.C. It can be an ambitious walk, especially when the temperatures are high or the winds are cold, but if the weather is right the rewards are wonderful. Viewers are treated to distinctive views of the Kennedy Center and Georgetown, as well as the monuments on the Mall.

Image: Dena Kennett bridge5

Generous Pedestrian Space

Another reason the walk is so tempting is the generous 15-foot-wide sidewalks on both sides of the bridge, which are framed by stone railing at about shoulder height, which are perfect for viewing over, yet substantial enough to provide a strong sense of security. Traffic is relatively slow-moving given drivers slow down to take in the views. There are even seats along the walk so you can comfortably pause.

Image: Dena Kennett