Sydney Harbour Bridge Place guide

Sydney Harbour Bridge is the impressive steel-arch bridge crossing Jackson Port, linking the City of Sydney and its northern suburbs. The bridge, which opened in 1932, spans half a kilometer and features railroad tracks, a highway, and pedestrian walkways.

Originally designed in 1914 as a cantilever bridge by Chief Engineer John Bradfield, construction was postponed as the Legislative Council felt the funds were better directed to the ongoing war effort. After World War I, efforts to build the bridge once again gained traction, and newly available technology led the team to build a sturdier and cheaper steel arch bridge instead of a cantilevered or suspension bridge.

Walk the bridge on its eastern side footpath and feel the immensity of the largest steel arch bridge in the world up close. More active travelers can climb up the South East Pylon, see exhibitions and bridge memorabilia, and walk 200 steps to the lookout at the top.  

A more adrenaline pumping alternative is the Bridge Climb, where adventure-seekers can climb the arches of the bridge, complete with safety gear, and get to the top at 134m above sea level, for breathtaking 360-degree views of Sydney Harbour and the city.