You’ll Want To Stop And Smell The Flowers When You Cross The Historic Old Drake Hill Flower Bridge In Connecticut

Some of the most beautiful and decorative bridges in the world are found in the Nutmeg State. Not only do they have stories to tell and architecture that makes them into practical works of art, but many have been lovingly restored and repurposed to make them into landmarks that deserve full recognition. One of the most beautiful pedestrian bridges in New England is the Old Drake Hill Flower Bridge in Simsbury.

Originally built in 1892, the historic Drake Hill Flower Bridge is a truss steel bridge measuring 183 feet in length. It hangs 18 feet above the Farmington River.

The original bridge was a one-lane motor vehicle bridge until it was shut down to vehicles after a new roadway was created in 1992.

Following a $400,000 restoration of the pedestrian bridge in 1995, the beautification of the bridge was inspired by the local community gardens around Simsbury and by the Bridge of Flowers in Shelburne Falls, MA.

The bridge is maintained by the donations and hard work of local citizens and volunteers who gather throughout the year to maintain the bridge and replant fresh flowers based on the seasons.

The bridge holds 62 flower boxes, 32 hanging baskets, and is surrounded by local flower gardens.

Hopbrook Landing is a beautiful little park to the side of the flower bridge. With so many floral additions around the bridge, you'll want to spend more than a few moments to take in all of the beauty of the surrounding gardens.

These spectacular views of the bridge, the gardens, and the river are the best way to spend a summer afternoon. Why not take an afternoon to bring a picnic lunch and enjoy a few hours of eye-catching beauty and one of the most peacefully beautiful places in Connecticut? It's definitely worth it!