Claiborne Pell Bridge
Iconic suspension bridge connecting Newport and Jamestown, offering breathtaking views of Narragansett Bay.
Highlights
Must-see attractions
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From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Magical light for photos
Claiborne Pell Bridge
Best Time
Magical light for photos
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Iconic suspension bridge connecting Newport and Jamestown, offering breathtaking views of Narragansett Bay.
"The views from this bridge are lovely, and it's definitely a very important landmark for the state of RI."
🚗 Toll Payment Options
Be ready for tolls! Non-residents pay $6. Consider a transponder for potential discounts and smoother passage.
⏰ Check Traffic Before You Go
Traffic delays can happen due to work. Always check local reports before crossing to save time.
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
Panoramic Narragansett Bay Views
Claiborne Pell Bridge
Experience breathtaking vistas of Narragansett Bay, sailboats, and the Rhode Island coastline from this iconic suspension bridge.
Sunrise and Sunset Spectacles
Claiborne Pell Bridge
Witness stunning sunrises and sunsets painting the sky over the bridge, creating a magical and cinematic atmosphere.
Architectural Marvel
Claiborne Pell Bridge
Admire the impressive engineering of New England's longest suspension bridge, a significant landmark connecting Newport and Jamestown.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Toll Information
Navigating Traffic
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
🚗 Toll Payment Options
Be ready for tolls! Non-residents pay $6. Consider a transponder for potential discounts and smoother passage.
⏰ Check Traffic Before You Go
Traffic delays can happen due to work. Always check local reports before crossing to save time.
📸 Capture the Views
The bridge offers stunning views, especially at sunrise and sunset. Perfect for drone shots! +1
🌉 Drive with Confidence
If you have a fear of heights or bridges, be prepared. Some find it anxiety-inducing, while others find it exhilarating.
Tips
from all over the internet
🚗 Toll Payment Options
Be ready for tolls! Non-residents pay $6. Consider a transponder for potential discounts and smoother passage.
⏰ Check Traffic Before You Go
Traffic delays can happen due to work. Always check local reports before crossing to save time.
📸 Capture the Views
The bridge offers stunning views, especially at sunrise and sunset. Perfect for drone shots! +1
🌉 Drive with Confidence
If you have a fear of heights or bridges, be prepared. Some find it anxiety-inducing, while others find it exhilarating.
🚢 Ship Spotting
Keep an eye out for large ships passing under the bridge; some are too tall to fit! +1
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Visitors consistently praise the Claiborne Pell Bridge for its stunning scenic views of Narragansett Bay and its iconic status as a Rhode Island landmark. The bridge's impressive architecture and beautiful sunrise/sunset backdrops are frequently highlighted. However, some travelers express frustration with the toll collection process, citing unexpected bills and delays, and a few individuals with a fear of heights find the crossing anxiety-inducing.
"Claiborne Pell Newport Bridge is a bridge that connects Newport and Jamestown. It is a suspension bridge with four lanes and it opened in 1969. In New England, it is the longest suspension bridge.
It is a beautiful bridge and I've driven on it countless times. The views are lovely. There is a toll to get on it. It's definitely a very important landmark for the state of RI."
Kim V.
"We were heading from Newport to Providence to see Waterfire festival. Even don't know how we ended riding this bridge. There was road sign, that we just have to go straight, and that there is no other option. The ride was long and breathtaking. After this bridge, comes another long bridge, but with no toll, there was even a small lighthouse on a tiny Plum Island.
Claiborne Pell bridge elevates gradually up, and then goes down. It is the longest bridge in Rhode Island and in New England, more than 11200 feet long (3400m). The fee for passing the bridge is $4 one way if you have transponder."
Rose Davis
"Amazing views from this bridge! You can see all the beautiful sailboats on the water ⛵️We paid $6 to pass the bridge as a non-resident."
priya vaswani
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
The Claiborne Pell Bridge connects Newport and Jamestown, Rhode Island. You can access it via RI-138. If you're coming from Newport, you'll head west on RI-138, and if coming from Jamestown, you'll head east. It's a prominent landmark and easily visible. +1
The bridge is primarily designed for vehicular traffic and is not typically recommended for walking due to its length and traffic volume. It's best experienced by car.
Yes, rideshare services like Uber and Lyft can be used to cross the bridge. However, be mindful of potential surge pricing during peak times or if there are traffic delays.
The Claiborne Pell Bridge connects the island town of Jamestown to the city of Newport on Aquidneck Island. +1
While specific bus routes may vary, public transportation in Rhode Island does utilize the bridge to connect the two areas. It's advisable to check with the local transit authority for current routes and schedules.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
Yes, there is a toll to cross the Claiborne Pell Bridge. The fee for non-residents is typically $6, and for those with a transponder, it may be less. Some visitors have reported receiving bills in the mail if their transponder doesn't register.
The toll for the Claiborne Pell Bridge is $6 for non-residents. Transponder users may have a different rate.
Toll collection methods can change. It's best to check the official Rhode Island Turnpike and Bridge Authority website for the most current payment options, as they may be transitioning to electronic tolling.
Frequent travelers can often benefit from using an E-ZPass or other transponder systems, which typically offer discounted rates compared to cash or pay-by-mail options.
If you miss paying the toll, you may receive a bill in the mail, potentially with additional fees or penalties. It's important to address these promptly to avoid further charges.
📸 📸 Photography & Views
Great photo opportunities exist from both the Newport and Jamestown sides. Driving across offers dynamic views, and viewpoints along the coast provide excellent vantage points. Drone footage is also popular for capturing its grandeur.
Absolutely! The bridge is renowned for its stunning sunrise and sunset views, with the sky often creating a dramatic backdrop.
Drone regulations can vary. Always check current FAA guidelines and any local restrictions before flying a drone near the bridge or in protected airspace. +1
You'll enjoy expansive views of Narragansett Bay, the surrounding islands, sailboats, and the coastline. It's a picturesque drive.
Stopping on the bridge itself is generally not permitted for safety reasons. Utilize designated scenic overlooks or pull off points on either side of the bridge for photography.
♿ ⚠️ Safety & Accessibility
The bridge is a well-maintained, modern structure designed for safe vehicle passage. However, some individuals with a fear of heights or bridges may experience anxiety.
If you have acrophobia or a fear of bridges, crossing the Claiborne Pell Bridge can be challenging. Some visitors have reported significant anxiety. Consider alternative routes if possible or prepare yourself mentally.
As a vehicular bridge, accessibility for pedestrians with mobility issues is limited. The primary experience is from within a vehicle.
In case of a medical emergency, pull over to a safe location if possible and call emergency services immediately. The bridge is monitored, and assistance can be dispatched.
The bridge is designed to accommodate standard vehicle traffic, including RVs and trucks. However, extremely oversized vehicles may require special permits or routing.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
Consider planning your drive during off-peak hours to minimize stress. The experience is best enjoyed from the car, so ensure everyone is comfortable for the duration of the crossing. The bridge itself is a point of interest, and discussing its size and purpose can be educational for younger travelers.
🚗 Road Trippers & Day-Trippers
Be prepared for the toll and potential traffic, especially if you're on a tight schedule. Checking traffic apps before you depart can save valuable time. The bridge's iconic status makes it a must-see landmark, and the views are a fantastic bonus to your coastal exploration.
📸 Photography Enthusiasts
+2Look for vantage points on both the Newport and Jamestown sides to get different angles. The interplay of light, water, and the bridge's structure creates dynamic compositions. Remember to be aware of any drone regulations and to always prioritize safety when seeking the perfect shot.
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
The Engineering Marvel: Claiborne Pell Bridge
The bridge was named in honor of Claiborne de Pell, a longtime U.S. Senator from Rhode Island. Its construction was a major undertaking, involving companies like Bethlehem Steel and ironworkers from Local 37, highlighting the collaborative effort required to build such an iconic structure.
Today, the bridge stands not only as a vital transportation link but also as a symbol of Rhode Island's coastal beauty and its connection to maritime history. Its presence is a constant reminder of the state's rich industrial past and its ongoing role in commerce and tourism.
Experiencing the Pell Bridge: Views and Vistas
Photographers and videographers flock to the bridge to capture its majestic presence, especially during the golden hours of sunrise and sunset. The way the light plays off the water and the bridge's structure creates a magical atmosphere, making it a popular subject for drone enthusiasts and landscape photographers alike.
+2Beyond the scenic beauty, the bridge itself is an architectural marvel. Its elegant suspension design and imposing height make it a striking landmark. Whether you're a local or a tourist, the drive over the Pell Bridge is often cited as a highlight of any visit to the Newport area.
Navigating the Pell Bridge: Tolls and Traffic
Traffic can be a significant factor when planning your journey over the bridge. Due to its importance as a connector, delays can occur, especially during peak tourist seasons or if maintenance work is being performed. Social media posts frequently warn about traffic jams, advising travelers to check local traffic conditions before setting out.
For those who experience anxiety related to bridges or heights, it's worth noting that some individuals find the crossing to be a challenging experience. While the bridge is a modern and safe structure, personal comfort levels can vary greatly.
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from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit