Soleri Bridge & Plaza
A striking architectural marvel functioning as a giant sundial, featuring unique Soleri bells and seasonal light displays.
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Witness the sundial's shadow play
Soleri Bridge & Plaza
Best Time
Witness the sundial's shadow play
Highlights
Must-see attractions
A striking architectural marvel functioning as a giant sundial, featuring unique Soleri bells and seasonal light displays.
"A beautiful walking bridge and a must for any Scottsdale visit!"
🎯 Visit during Solar Noon
Experience the bridge as a true sundial with unique shadow patterns.
🚗 Park at South Bridge Garage
Convenient and accessible parking is available nearby.
Quick Facts
Hours
Rating
4.7 · 197 reviews
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
The Soleri Bridge Sundial
Scottsdale Waterfront
Experience a giant sundial where pylons cast unique shadows, especially striking at solar noon on the solstice.
Soleri Bells
Sides of the bridge
Admire the distinctive, expensive storm bells designed by Paolo Soleri, adding an artistic and auditory element.
Seasonal Light Displays
Bridge Plaza
During holidays like Christmas, the bridge and plaza are beautifully decorated with festive lights and even a Christmas tree.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Timing is Everything: Solstice & Sundial Magic
+2Access and Exploration
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
🎯 Visit during Solar Noon
Experience the bridge as a true sundial with unique shadow patterns.
🚗 Park at South Bridge Garage
Convenient and accessible parking is available nearby.
📸 Great for Photos
The bridge's architecture and seasonal decor make it a picturesque spot.
🚶♀️ Walk to Waterfront Plaza
Easily connect to shops and restaurants after crossing the bridge.
Tips
from all over the internet
🎯 Visit during Solar Noon
Experience the bridge as a true sundial with unique shadow patterns.
🚗 Park at South Bridge Garage
Convenient and accessible parking is available nearby.
📸 Great for Photos
The bridge's architecture and seasonal decor make it a picturesque spot.
🚶♀️ Walk to Waterfront Plaza
Easily connect to shops and restaurants after crossing the bridge.
🔔 Listen for the Bells
Don't miss the unique sound of the Soleri storm bells.
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Visitors praise the Soleri Bridge & Plaza for its unique architectural design and its function as a giant sundial, especially during solstice events. It's a beautiful spot for photos and a pleasant walk, particularly when decorated for holidays. However, some find it lacks significant attractions outside of special events or nighttime, describing it as dark and quiet during off-peak hours.
"Beautiful bridge, I have stopped by on bike rides multiple times and it is a great entry to Old Town Socttsdale from the canal."
Elijah Mills
"Nothing here. Perhaps it's only worth a visit during the festival, otherwise you can't find anything even at night. Dark and quiet."
ชาเคียล โนอาห์
"I've often seen this bridge driving by, so it was nice to finally take some time to explore it. There's accessible parking at South Bridge garage and/or on the nearby streets. From the garage, it took me about 10-15 minutes to get here. The sidewalk is paved, and the bridge itself is wide and concrete. Standing there, you get a view of the canal, and in the holidays- you get treated to some festive decor; there's even a Christmas tree on the bridge plaza area. At the side of the bridge, there is some wall artwork and Soleri bells, and there's tall metal columns that hold the bridge. Crossing it- it's only a 5 or so minute walk to then get to the Waterfront plaza."
A Z
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
The Soleri Bridge & Plaza is located in Old Town Scottsdale. Accessible parking is available at the South Bridge garage or on nearby streets. It's also easily accessible by bike along the canal path.
Yes, accessible parking is available at the South Bridge garage and on surrounding streets.
Absolutely! The bridge is a popular spot for cyclists and pedestrians using the canal path.
The bridge connects to the Waterfront Plaza, which is surrounded by shops and restaurants in Old Town Scottsdale.
The bridge is a wide, paved concrete structure, making it accessible for wheelchairs and strollers.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
No, visiting the Soleri Bridge & Plaza is free and open to the public.
The bridge is generally accessible during daylight hours, though specific plaza hours may vary. It's often lit up during holidays.
There is no admission fee to walk across the Soleri Bridge or explore the plaza.
While the bridge itself is accessible, it can be dark and quiet at night unless there are special events or holiday light displays.
Yes, the bridge is a focal point for events like the Winter Solstice yoga sessions and holiday decorations.
📸 📸 Photography
For unique shots, visit during solar noon on the solstice to see the sundial effect. Holiday evenings offer festive light displays.
Yes, the bridge's modern architecture, the canal views, and seasonal decorations provide excellent photo opportunities.
Drone regulations vary by location. It's best to check with the City of Scottsdale for any restrictions before flying a drone.
It's ideal for architectural photography, landscape shots of the canal, and capturing festive holiday scenes.
The pylons themselves and the views down the canal offer distinct photographic perspectives.
🎫 🏛️ Architecture & History
The Soleri Bridge was designed by the renowned Italian artist, architect, and philosopher Paolo Soleri.
It's a unique piece of architecture that functions as a giant sundial and incorporates Soleri's signature bells.
Paolo Soleri coined 'arcology' (architecture + ecology) to describe his vision for integrated, sustainable urban environments, which influenced his designs.
These are large, expensive storm bells mounted on the bridge, designed by Paolo Soleri as part of his artistic vision.
While both are works of Paolo Soleri, Soleri Bridge is in Scottsdale, whereas Arcosanti is an experimental town north of Phoenix. +1
Social
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit