Just a scenic 2.5-hour drive from the lights of the Strip, you’ll find a sun-drenched oasis that feels like a world away. Lake Havasu City is a premier waterfront destination offering an unexpected twist: it’s home to the actual 1830s London Bridge. This unique blend of rugged desert and classical British architecture has earned the city its reputation as “Little London”.
How did the London Bridge end up at Lake Havasu City?
The story of how a piece of British heritage ended up in Arizona is the stuff of legend.
In 1967, the City of London was looking for someone to buy the defunct and dismantled bridge. McCulloch – the founder of Lake Havasu City – had a feeling that this iconic piece of British history would drive growth here in the desert. He paid for it to be dismantled brick by brick, and meticulously rebuilt over a section of the Colorado River.
Today, navigable canals flow under the bridge’s historic arches, creating a picturesque waterfront, reminiscent of a European waterway. Visitors can stroll through the nearby English Village, marvel at the granite stonework that once spanned the River Thames, and soak in the surreal experience of “Little London”.
Visiting Lake Havasu City
Lake Havasu City is much more than a historical novelty. With over 400 miles of coastline, 60 miles of navigable waterways, and 300 days of sunshine a year, it ‘s a playground for outdoor enthusiasts. Recognized as one of the best lakes for watersports in the country, its waters invite everything from pontoon cruising and paddleboarding to wakeboarding and speedboat racing. Beyond the water, you can also find 1,800 miles of off-road trails and scenic hiking paths.
Whether you want to touch a piece of the 19th-century British empire, explore desert canyons, or relax on a sandy beach, Lake Havasu City is a top escape that has it all.
