Sundial Bridge

The Sundial Bridge is not just a crossing over the Sacramento River, but a true work of engineering art located in the city of Redding, USA. This elegant cable-stayed bridge is designed exclusively for pedestrians and cyclists, creating an ideal space for walks away from the urban noise.

The main uniqueness of the structure lies in its giant 66-meter pylon, which is tilted at a 42-degree angle. Thanks to this design, the bridge acts as a working sundial — the largest in the world. The shadow from the "hand" slides across a special plaza on the north bank, indicating the exact time on sunny days.

The bridge deck is made of translucent glass, giving it a light and airy feel. At night, the bridge is transformed by soft lighting, turning into a glowing installation reflected in the river waters. This is a must-visit destination for all lovers of modern architecture and scenic views.

To clarify visit details or organize group tours, you can contact the administration of Turtle Bay Exploration Park, where the site is located.

First of all, you should walk across the bridge to feel its unusual geometry. Be sure to stop at the viewing platforms: they offer breathtaking panoramas of the Sacramento River and its forested banks. The transparent floor panels in some parts add a slight element of adventure to the walk.

It's a true paradise for photographers, especially during the "golden hour" before sunset. After dark, the illumination turns on, and the bridge begins to glow from within, creating a completely different, futuristic atmosphere. This is the best time for romantic strolls.

Active lifestyle enthusiasts can rent a bike and head further along the Sacramento River Trail, which begins right across the bridge. Also, don't miss the opportunity to stop by the neighboring arboretum and botanical garden, where you can relax in the shade of the trees after your tour.

Getting to this architectural masterpiece is easy, as it is located in the central part of Redding. Most tourists prefer to use a car: there is a spacious free parking lot next to Turtle Bay Park, making the visit as convenient as possible for those traveling through the state on their own.

If you prefer public transport, buses run regularly from the city center to the bridge. You can also always use a taxi service; the trip from the main city hotels takes only a few minutes. For active lifestyle enthusiasts, there are convenient pedestrian and bicycle paths along the Sacramento River.

Travelers from other regions often arrive in the city via Amtrak trains. The railway station is within walking distance, allowing you to combine a short walk around the city with a visit to the famous Sundial Bridge.

The creation of this amazing site was made possible by the talent of the famous Spanish architect Santiago Calatrava. His futuristic style, combining organic forms with advanced engineering solutions, turned an ordinary pedestrian crossing into a true symbol of modern art in the USA.

Construction began in the 1990s and required not only significant financial investment (the project cost approximately $23.5 million) but also surgical precision during the installation of the steel and glass structures. The official opening took place on July 4, 2004, serving as a brilliant gift to the city's residents for the holiday.

Interestingly, special attention was paid to the environment during the design phase. The bridge's structure was developed to avoid disturbing salmon spawning grounds in the Sacramento River. The bridge has no supports in the riverbed, making it not only beautiful but also environmentally friendly.

Since its opening, the bridge has won numerous architectural awards and has become the region's main "calling card," attracting thousands of aesthetes and fans of unusual engineering from all over the world every year.

To take a leisurely stroll across the bridge, take some impressive photos, and enjoy the views of the Sacramento River, 1–2 hours is usually enough. This is enough time to appreciate the scale of the structure and see how the shadow from the pylon moves across the dial.

If you plan to visit the adjacent Turtle Bay Exploration Park, the botanical garden, or the museum, it's worth setting aside at least 3–4 hours. This will turn a simple sightseeing trip into a full day of educational leisure for the whole family.

The pedestrian bridge itself is open to the public 24/7, allowing tourists to enjoy its view both in daylight and under the starlit sky.

However, if you plan to visit the information center or adjacent park facilities, please note the official operating hours:

• Monday and Tuesday: Closed
• Wednesday – Sunday: 10:00 AM – 4:00 PM

After a walk across the famous bridge, it's worth taking time to see other interesting places nearby. The area around the Sacramento River offers excellent opportunities for relaxation, gastronomic discoveries, and getting to know the local culture.

Exploring the surroundings will allow you to deeper experience the atmosphere of Northern California, whether it's visiting cozy breweries or viewing small monuments and art objects. Below are the most notable points nearby: