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Bridge of the Americas
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Landmark
The Bridge of the Americas (Puente de las Américas) is one of Panama's most iconic landmarks, spanning the Pacific entrance of the Panama Canal. Completed in 1962, it was the first permanent bridge to connect North and South America, effectively uniting the two continents that had been separated by the canal's construction in 1914. This massive steel-arch bridge was built by the United States and has since become a symbol of Panamanian national identity and global connectivity. It carries the Pan-American Highway and gives panoramic views of the canal's locks and the Panama City skyline. For decades, it was the only road link between the two sides of the country until the opening of the Centennial Bridge in 2004.
- Location: Panama
- Top sights: Balboa, Panama · Latin American Parliament · Estadio Maracaná (Panama)
- Nearby: Chilibre (7 km)
Best time to visit & climate
The most pleasant time to visit is Jan–Mar.
| Jan | Feb | Mar | Apr | May | Jun | Jul | Aug | Sep | Oct | Nov | Dec | |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Avg °C | 27 | 27 | 28 | 28 | 28 | 27 | 27 | 27 | 27 | 27 | 27 | 27 |
| Rain mm | 20 | 9 | 18 | 107 | 245 | 253 | 204 | 220 | 245 | 260 | 248 | 108 |
📋 Practical info
Visiting
The Bridge of the Americas is a major road bridge spanning the Panama Canal. It can be crossed by vehicle, but there is no dedicated pedestrian walkway for tourist sightseeing.
Typical hours
As a public road bridge, it is open around the clock and can be used at any time. However, the bridge is not accessible to pedestrians.
Photography
Photos of the bridge can be taken from viewpoints along the canal banks. The best perspective is from the Miraflores Locks or from boats.
Time needed
Crossing by car takes only a few minutes. Allow about 15 to 30 minutes for a photo stop on the banks.
Combine with
Combine the bridge sightseeing with a visit to Miraflores Locks and the Panama Canal Museum. The old town of Panama City is also great for a day trip.
Getting there
The bridge is located at the western end of the Panama Canal, reachable by car via the Pan-American Highway. Parking is available at nearby viewpoints.
Insider tip
Use early morning hours for a photo stop when the light is good and traffic is light. Observe traffic rules as the bridge is heavily used.
Geography
Facts
- Completed in 1962 at a cost of $20 million.
- Total length is 1,654 meters with a main span of 344 meters.
- Clearance under the bridge is 61 meters at high tide.
- Unites North and South America via the Pan-American Highway.
- Was originally known as Thatcher Ferry Bridge.
- Features a distinctive arched truss design.
- Carries approximately 35,000 vehicles per day.
- One of the most photographed structures in Panama.
Explore nearby
Notable places around
Route planner — Car & Motorhome
Where do you start? We build the route here, with stops and country notes along the way.
Vehicle
Only stops with (optional):
© OpenStreetMap contributors · OpenRouteService
Sights in the town Bridge of the Americas (3)
Sights nearby
Frequently asked questions
Can one walk across the bridge?
There are walkways, but it is very windy and loud.
When is the best view?
From the shore at sunset for great photos.
Is the bridge passable by car?
Yes, it is one of the main major arteries.
How long is it?
It is about 1.6 kilometers long.
Is it illuminated at night?
Yes, the bridge is beautifully illuminated at night.
Bridge of the Americas: where is it located?
Bridge of the Americas is located in Panama.
Bridge of the Americas: what is there to see?
Highlights include Balboa, Panama, Latin American Parliament, Estadio Maracaná (Panama).
Bridge of the Americas: when is the best time to visit?
The most pleasant time to visit is Jan, Mar.
Bridge of the Americas: why is it worth visiting?
The Bridge of the Americas (Puente de las Américas) is one of Panama's most iconic landmarks, spanning the Pacific entrance of the Panama Canal.
Explore with Plizio
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Nearby cities
Chilibre
A large district in the north of Panama City.
Las Garzas, Panama
A district in the east of Panama City, near Pacora.
Balboa
A historic district at the Pacific entrance of the Panama Canal.
San Blas Islands (Guna Yala)
A pristine archipelago of over 360 islands, managed by the indigenous Guna people, featuring postcard-perfect beaches.
History & landmarks
Monument to the Martyrs
A memorial for the events of January 9, 1964.
Bahá'í Temple of Panama
An architecturally unique House of Worship.
Palace of Justice
Seat of the Supreme Court of Panama.
Iglesia de San José
A church in Casco Viejo, famous for its golden altar.
Palacio Municipal
The City Hall of Panama City in Casco Viejo.
Edificio Hatillo
A significant municipal government building.
National Theatre of Panama
The country's most important opera and theatre building.
Amador Convention Center
A large event center on the Amador Causeway.
More places
Port of Balboa
The most significant port at the Pacific entrance to the Panama Canal.
PSA Panama International Terminal
A modern container terminal at the Pacific entrance.
Old Panama Railway Station
Historic station of the first transcontinental railway in Panama.
Ancón Hill
A forest-covered hill in the middle of Panama City, topped with a giant flag.
Panama Cement Plant
Manufacturing facility for construction materials.
Panama Bulk Cargo Terminal
Facility for handling loose goods.
Panama Amphibian Rescue Center
A center for the protection of endangered frog species.
National Zoo of Panama
Center for local animal species.