If you are like me, whenever you see a covered bridge, do you experience waves of nostalgia? I find these incredible structures take me back to a time when life wasn't so fast-paced, when I could slow down and appreciate fine craftsmanship. Among the many historic places in Michigan, covered bridges are some of the simplest yet most beautiful. Luckily, for those of us who reside in the Great Lakes State, there are still many covered bridges to admire, walk across, and experience the magic they invoke. The following road trip itinerary is one that will take you to seven beautiful covered bridges in Michigan. Follow along and get ready for a trip back in time when life was a little slower and simpler.
This Road Trip to 7 Beautiful Covered Bridges in Michigan Will Remind You of a Simpler Time
1. Pierce Stocking Covered Bridge
Sights & Landmarks⬩Empire Township, MI
The Pierce Stocking Covered Bridge is among the more charming features of the picturesque Pierce Stocking Scenic Drive, which winds through Sleeping Bear Dunes National Lakeshore. Whether you drive through in the midst of fall foliage or during the dog days of summer, you'll be charmed by this manmade structure tucked away among endless natural splendor. It's easy to see why Pierce Stocking remains atop the list of top scenic drives in Michigan, and its bridge adds an extra dash of whimsy.
2. Holz-Brücke Covered Bridge
Sights & Landmarks⬩City of Frankenmuth, MI
Once you've reached this all-wood, 230-ton bridge, you know you've reached Frankenmuth's small-town charm. Known as the Holz-Brucke Wooden Bridge, this lovely structure crosses the serene Cass River. This historic bridge, which is 239 feet long, was completed in 1980.
3. White’s Covered Bridge
Sights & Landmarks⬩Keene Township, MI
White's Covered Bridge was originally among three Brown truss-covered bridges still in existence in Michigan. This style of construction refers to the diagonal compression beams that hold the bridge up. While the original 1869 structure was destroyed by a fire in 2013, a full replica was completed in the spring of 2020 and still maintains ample charm.
4. Fallasburg Covered Bridge
Sights & Landmarks⬩Vergennes Township, MI
Just north of Lowell, this bridge was originally constructed around 1840, but steps were taken to preserve it in 1905, 1945, and 1994. Located within the aptly named Fallasburg Park, the bridge spans the Flat River and proudly maintains a spot on the National Register of Historic Places. I particularly love when this bridge is surrounded by fall foliage—it's breathtaking.
5. Ada Covered Bridge
Sights & Landmarks⬩Ada Township, MI
Built around 1867, this bridge was closed to automobiles in 1930. It was later renovated for foot traffic in 1941. Today, it offers a calm and charming way to cross the Thornapple River in Ada. Can you imagine a lovelier scene?
6. Ackley Covered Bridge
Sights & Landmarks⬩Greenfield Village, MI
This beauty was actually built in 1832 in West Finley, PA, and crossed Wheeling Creek. It has since been relocated and sits at Greenfield Village in Dearborn, Michigan. If you've never visited this lovely living history museum before, you'll surely want to stop by and immerse yourself in its many charms, including Ackley Covered Bridge. Don't forget to bring your camera along on this timeless adventure in Michigan.
7. Langley Covered Bridge
Sights & Landmarks⬩Lockport Township, MI
Constructed in 1887, Langley is actually the longest covered bridge in Michigan. Its vibrant red exterior makes it nearly impossible to miss as it stretches across the St. Joseph River. History buffs and architecture enthusiasts alike will appreciate the chance to cross here.
Once you have finished this road trip to the best covered bridges in Michigan, let us know which ones are your favorites, as well as any other stops you added to your itinerary, by filling out this nomination form. We'd love to hear from you.
Feeling inspired? Try planning your own trip using Only In Your State’s itinerary planner.
