Day Trips! 7 Covered Bridge Safaris Worth the Drive
Though they’re not too far from major metro areas, these hidden gems feel a world (and a century) away
Built in 1876, the West Union Covered Bridge is one of many architectural wonders you’ll spot in Indiana’s Parke Country, which touts itself as the covered bridge capital of the world.
Is there a sight more charming than an old-fashioned covered bridge? We think not. Also called “kissing bridges,” these historic landmarks take us back to a simpler time when trips unfolded at a much slower pace. Though preservation laws protect many of these treasures, they aren’t exactly invincible—strong storms can put a century-old structure firmly back into the past. In other words, you don’t want to wait to seek out these scenic bridges. Whether you want to take photos for your vacation memory book, liven up your social media posts or just enjoy charming architecture, here are a few of our favorite covered bridges that are within driving distance of major metropolitan areas.
Gallon House Bridge (Silverton, Oregon)
Oregon’s Gallon House Bridge has a storied role in local bootlegging lore.
Take the 42-mile trip from Portland to see a bridge with a fascinating history. The white structure, an increasingly trendy spot for wedding photography, was built in 1916—the same year Oregon became a “dry” state. The bridge then became a liquor drop for bootleggers. The “Gallon House” name stems from this tradition, when a nearby shack provided homemade whiskey by the gallon to Silverton residents.
Bells Mills Covered Bridge (West Newton, Pennsylvania)
Thirty-five miles southeast of Pittsburgh you’ll find this barn-red, circa-1850 bridge. Measuring 104 feet in length, you can still travel the structure by car. One neat feature you’ll notice? The bottom of the bridge is made of wood planks instead of the usual asphalt or cement. Just be warned: The clearance is pretty low, so large SUVs are better off driving past this charming site rather than through it.
Bunker Hill Covered Bridge (Claremont, North Carolina)
A 45-mile drive north of Charlotte will get you to this wooden gem, one of two remaining covered bridges in the state. Built in 1895, the structure was designated a National Civil Engineering Landmark in 2001. While you’re in the area, take a side trip to the town of Hickory (15 miles away). Widely known for the number of handcrafted furniture companies and showrooms in the region, Hickory has a great mix of museums, restaurants and, yes, furniture.
Walter F. Ehrnfelt Covered Bridge (Strongsville, Ohio)
Located just 35 miles north of Akron, it’s estimated that this covered bridge was built more than 100 years ago. It got its name in 1983 when it was dedicated to the local mayor. If you’re in town in mid-September, stop by the annual Strongsville City Club Breakfast on the Covered Bridge event.
Concord Covered Bridge (Cobb County, Georgia)
The Concord Covered Bridge is still a popular passageway for crossing Nickajack Creek in Georgia’s Cobb County. Photo Credit: @bobjonesphoto
Dating back to 1872, this rustic structure (located 18 miles outside of Atlanta) was very useful to Georgia residents and visitors when it was built—and it still is today. It has the highest traffic count of all the covered bridges in the state combined. While you’re here, pack a picnic lunch and explore the trails of the adjacent Heritage Park.
Parke County, Indiana
Known as the "Covered Bridge Capital of the World," Parke County (58 miles outside of Indianapolis) cae weekend of sightseeing as you tour its 31 bridges. In particular, make sure to see the West Union Covered Bridge, a National Historic Landmark that was built in 1876. If you can, plan your trip to coincide with October’s Covered Bridge Festival, featuring food, crafters and plenty of shopping.
Bucks County, Pennsylvania
There are 12 charming covered bridges in this beautiful county, a popular destination in general with weekenders from New York and New Jersey. (It’s less than 90 miles from West Orange, New Jersey and New York City.) One of the easiest to get to is the Van Sant Covered Bridge near the town of New Hope, Pennsylvania. Dating back to 1870, the bridge is allegedly haunted.
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