At one point in time, you could find over 300 covered bridges in New York. Spanning our rivers and creeks, these structures were once a common sight in everyday life. Today, there are only several handfuls left standing in the Empire State. Coming across these charming bridges usually takes a concentrated effort. If you’re a fan of scenic drives in New York, we’ve got you covered. This road trip will showcase some of our favorite pieces of the past. Take a day trip to discover some of the few remaining New York covered bridges that are still standing.

If you've been searching online for "covered bridges near me," you need to check out this charming road trip. This trip will only take you about three hours of driving time, but you'll likely want to stop and check out some of the cute small towns you'll pass along the way. You'll start in the small town of Salem and head out toward Cooperstown.
Google
To help with directions, check out the link to Google Maps.
Going from east to west, your first stop will be the Rexleigh Covered Bridge.
Rexleigh Covered Bridge, Rexleigh Rd, Salem, NY 12865, USA
Amanda Baldwin/Google
The Rexleigh Covered Bridge spans the Batten Kill. This is one of the most photogenic of the New York covered bridges. It was first built in 1874. The timber that was used to construct the bridge was locally cut, but interestingly, the iron blocks were pre-fabricated.

Take a look at this video by @thefolklifecenteratcrandal8195:
Next stop, you'll head over to the Buskirk Covered Bridge.
Buskirks Covered Bridge, 10 Co Rd 59, Buskirk, NY 12028, USA
James Walsh/Flickr
The Buskirk Bridge dates all the way back to 1850. It's painted a charming shade of red and is found right near the towns of Hudson and Buskirk. Amazingly, it's still open for vehicle use! This darling Howe truss covered bridge spans the Hoosic River. Passing over it will take you to a simpler time.

Take a look at this video by @jeffreyendee550:

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This next stop not only includes the Copeland Covered Bridge but also beautiful waterfalls too!
Copeland Covered Bridge, 46 N Shore Rd, Northville, NY 12134, USA
Sarah Fuller/Google
The Copeland Covered Bridge in Northville is more than worth pulling over for. Conveniently located right along the roadside in Saratoga County, it sits at the bottom of a small hill. You can walk inside the bridge to enjoy a framed view of the waterfalls all around you as they cascade down Beecher Creek. This 30-foot bridge was built in 1879. It's one of the most charming of the NY covered bridges.

Take a look at this video by @MMFR72:
The breathtaking scenic drives and bridges continue with a stop at the Salisbury Center Covered Bridge.
Salisbury Historic Covered Bridge, 364, 360 Fairview Rd, Dolgeville, NY 13329, USA
Bruce Caisse/Google
If you hadn't already caught on to this pattern, covered bridges in New York were pretty popular back in the 1870s! This one was built in 1875 in Herkimer County. Spanning over 40 feet across Spruce Creek, this covered bridge makes for one scenic stop.
Last but certainly not least, our trip will take you to the Hyde Hall Covered Bridge. This is the oldest of all the covered bridges in New York.
Hyde Hall Covered Bridge, Glimmerglass State Park, Cooperstown, NY 13326, USA
Eric Madsen/Google
Some actually consider Hyde Hall Covered Bridge to be the oldest covered bridge in America. It's found tucked away inside Cooperstown's Glimmerglass State Park. An easy 1-mile hiking trail is set up in the park, so you can take a stroll right over the oldest covered bridge in the Empire State. This dates back to 1825 and is certainly one of the most enchanting places in New York.

Have you been to any of these historic covered bridges in New York? Share your experiences in the comments!

Ready to take on even more adventures here in the Empire State? Then check out these 11 Unforgettable Road Trips To Take In New York Before You Die! To help you plan your next road trip, check out our Ultimate Road Trip Packing List.

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What are some historic places in New York?

Of course in a state as old as ours, we're liable to have some fantastic historic places worth checking out. From lighthouses to historic homes like the Vanderbilt Mansion, there are all kinds of historic landmarks you should check out in New York. Whether you are interested in Native American history, colonial times, or more modern history, there is plenty to explore all across the Empire State.

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Some of the most scenic drives in New York include the following:

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