Miami’s engineering masterpiece
Far more than just a bridge, the MacArthur Causeway is a colossal six-lane engineering marvel linking the city and buzzing Miami Beach. It crosses the tranquil Biscayne Bay, connecting the islands to the mainland and offering stunning views of the city’s imposing skyline.
Feel like exploring the bay? Big Bus Tours will carry you over the causeway to the sunny shores of Miami Beach, passing Palm Island, Dodge Island and Star Island – the exclusive neighbourhood of many celebrities. It’s also worth keeping an eye out for the small but quaint Flagler Memorial Island while on our Miami Bus Tour.
History of the MacArthur Causeway
Back at the start of the 20th century, the crumbling wooden Collins Bridge (now the Venetian Causeway) was the only link between Miami city and the Barrier Islands. As Miami Beach transformed into a world-class Art Deco resort, the city needed a new bridge, and construction of the MacArthur Causeway began in 1917.
Other interesting facts about the MacArthur Causeway:
- The total length of the MacArthur Causeway, Miami is a huge 3.5 miles (5.6 kilometres)
- Clearance under the causeway is a dizzying 21 meters (68 feet)
- The causeway was officially opened on 17 February 1920
- It underwent structural expansion before being renamed in honor of General Douglas MacArthur in 1942
