These 7 Beautiful Covered Bridges In Michigan Will Remind You Of A Simpler Time
There’s something so nostalgic about a covered bridge. It takes us back in time to when life wasn’t so fast paced, when we could slow down and appreciate fine craftsmanship. Among the many historic places in Michigan, covered bridges are some of the simplest yet most beautiful. Lucky for those of us who reside in the Great Lakes State, we’ve still got some of these covered bridges to appreciate. Some are now only open to foot traffic. Others are new and were designed to capture that old-timey feeling. Still others have been beautifully restored and maintain their original use.
Have a look at some of the most marvelous covered bridges in Michigan.
During these uncertain times, please keep safety in mind and consider adding destinations to your bucket list to visit at a later date.
1. Holz Brücke Wooden Bridge
Holz-Brücke Wooden Bridge, Covered Bridge Ln, Frankenmuth, MI 48734, USA
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.
Built around 1867, this bridge 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?
3. Fallasburg Covered Bridge
Fallasburg Park Drive Northeast, Fallasburg Park Dr NE, Vergennes Township, MI 49331, USA
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.
4. Ackley Covered Bridge
Ackley Covered Bridge, Christie St, Dearborn, MI 48124, USA
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.
5. Langley Covered Bridge
Langley Covered Bridge Historic Site, 21959 Schweitzer Rd, Three Rivers, MI 49093, USA
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.
8. Pierce Stocking Covered Bridge
Pierce Stocking Scenic Drive, Pierce Stocking Scenic Dr, Michigan, USA
This 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.
8. White's Covered Bridge
Whites Covered Bridge, 1612-1636 Whites Bridge Rd, Belding, MI 48809, USA
White's was originally among three Brown truss covered bridges still in existence in Michigan (the others are the aforementioned Ada and Fallasburg bridges). 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.
Makes you want to take a road trip right now and get a closer look at these places, huh? Tell us – do you have a favorite covered bridge in Michigan that’s not on this list? We’re always eager to hear from you, so drop us a line in the Facebook comments or recommend another one of your favorite things to do in Michigan by filling out our nomination form here.
One of the most fascinating bridges in Michigan that doesn’t quite fit on our list of covered options is the Tridge, a three-way footbridge in the city of Midland. This awesome tri-walkway structure creates a fascinating and scenic attraction for all ages to enjoy, not to mention its convenient access to St. Charles and Chippewassee Parks. If you’d like to read more about the Tridge, check out our previous feature piece here.
Are there any historical villages in Michigan?
If you’re a fan of covered bridges, it’s safe to assume that you appreciate history. Luckily for you, Michigan is home to some of the nation’s most wonderful historical villages, including the aforementioned Greenfield Village in Dearborn. Many of our state’s other history-rich attractions offer tours, seasonal activities, and loads of photo opportunities, so read more by checking out our previous article here.
What are some other fun things to do in Michigan?
The possibilities are endless. If you’re not in the mood to appreciate a quaint covered bridge or step back in time, we recommend embarking on a wondrous hike or dining at one of the best restaurants in Michigan. From wooded trails to charming cafes along the shores of our Great Lakes, there’s no shortage of excitement to be found here in Michigan. If you’d like a limited but intriguing overview, check out this awesome Michigan bucket list — just be sure to leave time and space for your own in-state discoveries!
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Serena Maria Daniels is an award-winning freelance journalist in Detroit, by way of Chicago, by way of the West Coast. She writes about Michigan for OIYS. Serena enjoys learning about language and culture and taking road trips with her beagle Ralph.
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