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Sydney Harbour Bridge Review

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Sydney Harbour Bridge

Member Rating: ***** 4.8 | Rate It

Fodor's Review:

Sydney's iron colossus, Harbour Bridge was a monumental engineering feat when it was completed in 1932. The roadway is supported by the arch, not by the massive stone pylons, which were added for aesthetic rather than structural reasons. The 1,650-foot-long bridge is 160 feet wide and contains two sets of railway tracks, eight road lanes, a bikeway, and a footpath on both sides. Actor Paul Hogan worked for several years as a rigger on the bridge, long before he earned international fame as the star of Crocodile Dundee. Sydneysiders love of Harbour Bridge was displayed in earnest on March 18, 2007, when 200,000 people walked across to commemorate its 75th anniversary.

There are several ways to experience the bridge and its spectacular views. The first is to follow the walkway from its access point near the Argyle Stairs to the South East Pylon (02/9240-1100). This structure houses a display on the bridge's construction, and you can climb the 200 steps to the lookout and its unbeatable harbor panorama. The fee is A$8.50 and the display is open daily 10-5. Another (more expensive) option -- not for those afraid of heights -- is the BridgeClimb tour (02/8274-7777), which takes you on a guided walking tour to the very top of Harbour Bridge, 439 feet above sea level. The cost ranges from A$165 to A$200 per person, depending on which tour you select. The third option is to walk to the midpoint of the bridge to take in the views free of charge, but be sure to take the eastern footpath, which overlooks the Sydney Opera House. Access is via the stairs on Cumberland Street, close to the Shangri-La Hotel.

Member Reviews & Ratings:

Beautiful views of Sydney

Posted by BrownEyedGirl from San Diego on 1/11/07
Walk across the Sydney bridge if you have time. It doesn't take long and you get great picture opportunites.

Experience: 5.0 Ease: 4.0 Value: 5.0 Don't Miss: 5.0 RATING: 4.8

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