Most Virginians are familiar with the Chesapeake Bay Bridge-Tunnel, a stunning complex that goes both over and under the open seas, connecting Delmarva and Hampton Roads. But, what many don’t realize is that it’s actually the longest of its kind in the entire world. That’s right; there are a handful of other bridge tunnels throughout the planet, but none are as long as the one you’ll find here in Virginia. Here’s more on why the Chesapeake Bay Bridge-Tunnel is a marvelous feat of engineering.
Anyone who has traversed the Chesapeake Bay Bridge-Tunnel never forgets the experience. This 17.6-mile structure takes drivers on an epic journey across the Chesapeake Bay.
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Prior to the bridge tunnel’s opening in 1964, the only way to get across this channel was via ferry.
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Of course, as you can imagine, building the structure was no easy feat.
nojustice / Getty Images According to the website, building the complex meant “undertaking a project of more than 12 miles of low-level trestle, two 1-mile tunnels, two bridges, almost 2 miles of causeway, four manmade islands and 5-1/2 miles of approach roads, totaling 23 miles.”
Upon opening, the Chesapeake Bay Bridge-Tunnel was declared One of the Seven Engineering Wonders of the Modern World. And it’s no mystery why!
Chesapeake Bay Program / flickr
Along the route, the water varies from 25 feet to 100 feet deep. For those interested in getting out to explore the scenery, there’s a scenic overview along the way.
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In fact, it’s a popular stop for migrating birds on their route north in the spring or south in the late fall. If you’re a birding enthusiast, prepare to be impressed!
Missy Schmidt / flickr
So whether you need to get across the Chesapeake Bay or you’re simply looking for an epic day trip, you’ll be glad you took the Chesapeake Bay Bridge-Tunnel.
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Have you ever driven the Chesapeake Bay Bridge-Tunnel in Virginia? What did you think? Be sure to share your thoughts with us in the comments below — we’d love to hear all about your adventures!
Westend61 / Getty Images
smanter / Getty Images
nojustice / Getty Images
According to the website, building the complex meant “undertaking a project of more than 12 miles of low-level trestle, two 1-mile tunnels, two bridges, almost 2 miles of causeway, four manmade islands and 5-1/2 miles of approach roads, totaling 23 miles.”
Chesapeake Bay Program / flickr
Imagesbybarbara / Getty Images
Missy Schmidt / flickr
Joesboy / Getty Images
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Address: Chesapeake Bay Bridge-Tunnel, Virginia, USA
