Sydney Harbour Bridge
The Sydney Harbour Bridge is one of the most famous landmarks in the world. It is not only the world's biggest steel arch bridge but also crosses one of the world's most beautiful natural harbours.
The 'Sydney Harbour Bridge,' the world's largest steel curving bridge, is a significant landmark spanning one of the finest distinctive harbours. The bridge, first opened in 1932, is popularly known as the 'Coathanger' by 'Sydneysiders.' You may walk or ride across the bridge or climb to the highest point for great views.
Go through this article to get all the information, from the activities you can do at the Sydney Harbour Bridge to how to get there and the best time to plan your trip. Keep reading!
History of the Sydney Harbour Bridge in Australia
Francis Greenway was the person who first proposed the plans for this Sydney Harbour Bridge to Governor Lachlan Macquarie in 1815. In 1825, he wrote a letter to an Australian newspaper about the need for a bridge to connect the two sides of the harbour. Though the public remembered his idea, but it was never carried out.
In 1840, naval architect Robert Brindley proposed a floating bridge, and in 1857, Engineer Peter Henderson designed one of the first drawings. Finally, John Bradfield, who is now known as the father of the bridge, became the "Chief Engineer of Sydney Harbour Bridge and Metropolitan Railway Construction" in 1914.
Initially, he proposed a suspension bridge at the site, but after visiting New York during the First World War and being inspired by the architecture, he changed his mind and decided to build an arch bridge instead. This project was also delayed, but it was completed between 1923 and 1932 when the bridge was finally opened to the public.
Things to do when visiting Sydney Harbour Bridge
If you are planning a trip to Sydney Harbour Bridge, then you might be looking for what activities you can do at the bridge. Well, there are a number of activities that you can do. Here are things you can do at the Sydney Harbour Bridge:
· Bridge Walk: It is located on the bridge's eastern side. Begin at the pedestrian crossing at the Australian Heritage Hotel on Cumberland Street in the historic Rocks and work your way up the steps. The hike includes a stop at the south-eastern Pylon Lookout, which gives a wonderful view.
· Cycleway: It is located on the bridge's western side. The Sydney Observatory, a stunning heritage-listed edifice with telescopes for astronomy, lies nearby. You may rent bicycles throughout the city or join a guided trip, such as those offered by Sydney Bike Tours or Bonza Bike Tours.
· Bridge Climb: Sydney is a genuinely one-of-a-kind adventure that will take you to the summit for panoramic views of Sydney and beyond. It is located on Cumberland Street, near the point where the road turns under the bridge, and stairs lead down to a colonial artillery battery in Dawes Point (Ta-Ra) Park. Bridge Climb Charges for Adults are $268 & kids are only $99!
You can even take a boat to see the bridge from a different perspective. Take a ferry from Circular Quay to Taronga Zoo, Manly, or Watsons Bay, passing under the bridge and the Sydney Opera House. Alternatively, you may glide beneath the bridge to sites including Barangaroo, Darling Harbour, Cockatoo Island, and Parramatta.
A harbour tour is another enjoyable option. Lunch, high tea, sunset drinks, and dinner cruises are among the delectable alternatives. There are also fantastic sailing trips. Fly in a seaplane from Rose Bay or a helicopter from Mascot for a bird's-eye view.
Best Way to Get to Sydney Harbour Bridge, Australia
Sydney Harbour Bridge is the heart of Sydney city, and it's only a short drive, taxi trip, or rail journey away from the airport. The Sydney Kingsford Smith Airport (SYD) is located 9 kilometers (5.5 miles) away from the city and handles both international and local flights. Hire vehicles, ridesharing, taxis, and shuttles can be reserved in advance or on the day of your arrival.
When to visit the Sydney Harbour Bridge
The weather in Sydney is quite predictable, with four distinct seasons:
· November to February are the warmest months
· March to August are the coolest
· Spring and summer are peak seasons (November to February)
· Winter is the low season (June to August)
Main attraction: Sydney New Year's Eve is probably one of the world's most stunning fireworks displays, and it all takes place directly on Sydney Harbour Bridge.
Timings: Monday to Sunday (Open 24 Hours)
Entry Toll: The Sydney Harbour Bridge has a toll booth at the south end, and the toll is about $3.
Conclusion
For over a century, the Sydney Harbour Bridge has been a major tourist attraction in the city of Sydney. It is a steel arch bridge that spans Sydney Harbour and was designed by the British firm Dorman Long and Co. Ltd. and built under the direction of Dr. John Bradfield. The Sydney Harbour Bridge is known as the "Coat Hanger" because of its arch design.
The bridge has original traffic lanes and a bicycle track on its western side. It also has two lanes of tram tracks on the eastern side and two railway tracks between the main roadway and the bicycle path. The bridge is one of Sydney's most photographed landmarks. Add Sydney Harbour Bridge to your itinerary while your trip to Australia.

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