Traveling on Route 3 will take you to some incredible places and amazing views, but the Penobscot Narrows Bridge and Observatory is one of the best sights to see. It is the longest bridge in Maine, and it is also the tallest observatory bridge in the world! However, this bridge is fairly new, and depending on when you last visited, you might remember the old one as well. Let's travel through the history of what makes the Penobscot Narrows Bridge And Observatory so great.
The original bridge, Waldo-Hancock was a large suspension bridge and the first bridge to span over the Penobscot River.
The Waldo-Hancock bridge was built in 1931 and was used all the way till 2006. This bridge had its own beauty to behold and was enjoyed for many years. After many routine inspections, however, it became clear that the cables were corroded and would no longer be able to support the bridge. Does anyone else remember this bridge? I know I do.
The new project for the Penobscot Narrows Bridge And Observatory began and was finished in 2006.
In 2013 the Waldo-Hancock bridge was demolished. So for eight years, while traveling on Route 3, you would drive across the Penobscot Narrows Bridge and see the Waldo-Hancock bridge a few yards away.
One of the biggest attractions to the Penobscot Narrows Bridge is the observatory.
Sitting at 420 feet tall, it's the largest observation bridge in the world! Looking out over the top, you will get great views of the river, Fort Knox, and the surrounding coast.
While driving from the south on Route 3, make sure to keep a lookout for a beautiful view of this looming structure.
The nearby Fort Knox is a great place to go and explore an old fort with your kids.
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Make sure to bring a flashlight because it will get really dark when you explore the interworkings of the fort. This awesome view is accessible from the fort.
With such a high bridge it can be quite a thrill to drive from one end to the other.
Looking up at the long cables can almost make you dizzy as you drive and really puts into perspective this massive structure. The Penobscot River is beautiful and worth taking in while driving across. Just looking up at that tower keep in mind what you are looking at is the largest observation bridge in the world!
Whether you decide to just drive across or take the elevator to the top, the Penobscot Narrows Bridge And Observatory is an amazing find in the Pine Tree State. What do you think of the longest bridge in Maine? Have you ever been up to the observation tower? Make sure to buy your tickets to the Penobscot Narrows Bridge Observatory Tower, Fort Knox, or both, and enjoy this wonderful site. While you are in the area try something completely new: Take a hike with a large pack of German shepherds.
Do you love these types of landmarks? We've got even more bridges in Maine for you so make sure you check them out too.
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