Highlight • Bridge
Cycling
5.0
(11)
Gravel riding
5.0
(1)
The Theodore Roosevelt Bridge is a prominent steel and concrete girder bridge spanning the Potomac River, connecting Washington, D.C., with the Commonwealth of Virginia, specifically the Rosslyn section of Arlington. This vital transportation artery carries Interstate 66 and U.S. Route 50, crossing directly over the historic Theodore Roosevelt Island. Named in honor of the 26th President of the United States, it serves as a critical link in the nation's capital region.
Visitors often appreciate the bridge not just for its…
Tips
June 22, 2025
Cycling
In the know? Log-in to add a tip for other adventurers!
Sign up for free
Nearby routes
Best routes near Theodore Roosevelt Bridge
4.7
(32)
321
riders
35.1km
02:04
140m
140m
Moderate bike ride. Good fitness required. Mostly paved surfaces. Suitable for all skill levels.
4.7
(47)
260
riders
52.3km
03:06
230m
230m
Moderate bike ride. Good fitness required. Mostly paved surfaces. Suitable for all skill levels.
4.7
(14)
205
riders
24.2km
01:26
70m
70m
Easy bike ride. Great for any fitness level. Mostly paved surfaces. Suitable for all skill levels.
Details
Weather
Powered by Foreca
Today
Tuesday 7 April
14°C
6°C
0 %
Additional weather tips
Max wind speed: 27.0 km/h
Most visited during
January
February
March
April
May
June
July
August
September
October
November
December
While the Theodore Roosevelt Bridge crosses directly over Theodore Roosevelt Island, there is no direct access to the island from the bridge itself. Pedestrian access to the island is available from the Virginia side of the river, typically via a footbridge from the parking area near the George Washington Memorial Parkway.
Theodore Roosevelt Island offers a tranquil escape with walking trails that are generally considered easy to moderate. The terrain is mostly flat or gently rolling, making it accessible for a wide range of visitors. The island features natural paths through wooded areas and boardwalks over marshy sections, providing a pleasant experience for walkers and hikers.
Parking near the Theodore Roosevelt Bridge and Theodore Roosevelt Island can be found in nearby Arlington, Virginia, or Washington, D.C. areas. For Theodore Roosevelt Island, there is a dedicated parking lot accessible from the George Washington Memorial Parkway. Public transport options include metro stations in Rosslyn, Virginia, which is a short walk from the bridge and the island's access point.
Yes, the Theodore Roosevelt Bridge area is suitable for winter walks, offering unique views of the Potomac River and the city skyline, often with fewer crowds. However, visitors should be prepared for colder temperatures and potential icy conditions on paths. Theodore Roosevelt Island's trails remain open year-round, but some sections might be muddy after snowmelt or rain. Always check local weather and trail conditions before heading out.
Yes, the trails on Theodore Roosevelt Island are generally considered family-friendly, offering easy walks suitable for children. The island is also dog-friendly, provided dogs are kept on a leash. It's a great spot for a leisurely stroll with the whole family, including your canine companions.
The Theodore Roosevelt Bridge itself offers expansive views of the Potomac River, the Washington, D.C. skyline, and the Kennedy Center. For unique perspectives, consider walking or cycling across the bridge. Additionally, the trails on Theodore Roosevelt Island provide picturesque views of the river and the bridge, especially from the memorial plaza and along the perimeter trails.
The Theodore Roosevelt Bridge has a total length of 1,616 feet (approximately 0.3 miles). Walking across it typically takes about 5-10 minutes, depending on your pace and how often you stop to enjoy the views. It's a relatively short but scenic walk connecting D.C. and Virginia.
While the Theodore Roosevelt Bridge itself is a functional traffic bridge with pedestrian access, visitors with mobility challenges should be aware that access to Theodore Roosevelt Island involves a footbridge and natural trails. Some sections of the island's trails are boardwalks, but others are unpaved. It's advisable to check the National Park Service website for the most current accessibility information regarding the island's trails.
The Theodore Roosevelt Bridge connects directly to the Rosslyn neighborhood in Arlington, Virginia, and Foggy Bottom in Washington, D.C. Both areas offer a wide range of amenities, including numerous cafes, restaurants, and pubs within walking distance or a short drive from the bridge. You'll find options for quick bites, coffee, and full meals on both sides of the river.
Both the Theodore Roosevelt Bridge and the Key Bridge offer pedestrian and cycling access across the Potomac River, connecting D.C. and Virginia. The Theodore Roosevelt Bridge is a major traffic artery, offering direct views of Theodore Roosevelt Island and connecting to I-66/US-50. The Key Bridge, located slightly upstream, is known for its historic architecture and connects Georgetown (D.C.) with Rosslyn (VA), often providing a more direct link to the bustling Georgetown area. Your choice depends on your starting point and desired destination or views.
The Theodore Roosevelt Bridge is named in honor of Theodore Roosevelt, the 26th President of the United States. Its construction, authorized by President Dwight D. Eisenhower in 1958 and opened in 1964, was a significant engineering feat designed to improve transportation between Washington, D.C., and Virginia. It crosses over Theodore Roosevelt Island, a dedicated memorial to the former president, further cementing its historical connection.