Every Michigander is familiar with the Mackinac Bridge. It’s a true modern marvel, stretching across stunning blue waters to transport cars from the Lower to the Upper Peninsula. But the bridge is more than just a sight to behold: it boasts a fascinating history and is a perpetual point of pride for our state. There truly is no other attraction in the world quite like the Mackinac Bridge in Michigan.

Bailiwick Studios/Flickr
The Mackinac Bridge in Michigan is a feat of modern engineering. It stands as the longest suspension bridge in the Western Hemisphere and the fifth-longest of its kind in the entire world. In total, the bridge stretches 26,732 feet.
Flickr/Charles Dawley
As it extends across the Straits of Mackinac, our stunning bridge suspends approximately 200 feet above the water. This makes for an incredible view during every crossing of the bridge.
Flickr/ C Hanchey
The construction of the Mackinac Bridge was a feat in and of itself. Initial whisperings of a bridge to the Upper Peninsula started as early as the 1880s, but the project wasn’t approved until the 1950s.
Flickr/Don The Up North Memories Guy
Between 1954 and 1957, crews worked tirelessly on the treacherous build site. The crew consisted of 3,500 construction workers and 350 engineers, in addition to upwards of 7,500 factory employees. They all labored relentlessly to create Michigan’s iconic "Bic Mac" bridge.

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Today, visitors from across the world appreciate the breathtaking beauty of our beloved bridge. For many, crossing the bridge into the Upper Peninsula is a highlight of their trip through Michigan. This is evidenced in the hundreds of photos taken of the Mackinac Bridge each year.
Flickr/User Deb
The Mackinac Bridge in Michigan has spawned nicknames and stories throughout the state. Residents of the Lower Peninsula are sometimes referred to as "trolls" by jokesters from the Upper Peninsula. Why? Because they live under the bridge!
Flickr/Michigan Fitness Foundation
Each Labor Day, hundreds of people make the annual Mackinac Bridge Walk from St. Ignace to Mackinac City. This is the only chance for pedestrians to walk the bridge, and it’s a must-do excursion for every Michigander at least once in their lifetime!
Flickr/Eric Walli
Our beloved bridge has it all: history, unbeatable views, manmade beauty, and a genuinely appreciated purpose. This is a brilliant marriage of form and function. Without the Mackinac Bridge, many of us might never experience the joys of the Upper Peninsula, or cross the water at the Straits of Mackinac. So, Mackinac Bridge: for your steadfast strength and scenery, we thank you!

The Mackinac Bridge in Michigan truly is an amazing architectural feat. If you’re a Michigander, you’ve almost certainly visited our amazing “Big Mac” bridge. Share your Mackinac Bridge photos in the comments — we know you’ve got them, and would love to see them!

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Mackinac Bridge in Michigan

Sarah | May 18, 2021

Does Michigan have many bridges?

As the Great Lakes State is surrounded by water -- and full of landlocked lakes and rivers, too -- Michigan is home to many, many bridges. While the Mackinac Bridge in Michigan is the most famous (and stunning!), the state is home to myriad other worth-the-drive bridges. The Little Mac Foot Bridge, located near Upper River Road in Mesick, is a miniature version of our beloved Mackinac Bridge, often called the Mighty Mac. The smaller bridge spans the Manistee River, and is just plain delightful! And for another pedestrian-friendly bridge, the Croswell Swinging Bridge is just plain fun. This one-of-a-kind pedestrian suspension bridge is said to be the longest of its kind in Michigan, and visitors of all ages enjoy strolling across it each year!

Are there many covered bridges in Michigan?

Michigan is home to quite a few historic covered bridges. They add wonder to any Michigan road trip. The photograph below was taken along the Sleeping Bear Dunes National Lakeshore. Curious to keep exploring? These eight beautiful covered bridges in Michigan will take you back to a simpler time. One of our favorite covered bridges in the Mitten is located in Sleeping Bear Dunes National Park, and it's a total under-the-radar treasure you must check out! And Fallasburg Covered Bridge is the oldest covered bridge in Michigan; it was originally constructed in 1840!

How many bridges are there in Michigan?

Are you ready for this? In Michigan, there are 11,145 bridges, which includes bridges maintained by MDOT and local municipalities. That's a whole lot of bridges!

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Mackinac Bridge, Mackinaw City, MI 49701, USA