If you’re adventuring in the northeastern United States, you might want to take a pit stop in Massachusetts to see the Bridge of Flowers. Massachusetts is beautiful, so you won’t have trouble adding other activities to this quick expedition.
The Bridge of Flowers is only one small example of the region’s eye-catching aesthetic. Learn more about this little gem of a spot, and consider integrating the Bridge of Flowers into your next outdoor excursion. Let’s get started!
What Is the Bridge of Flowers?
The Bridge of Flowers is in Shelburne Falls, Massachusetts. It sits atop an old trolley bridge that the owners renovated to accommodate the plant life and its adoring visitors.
The trolley bridge only served as a crossing for trolley cars for approximately 20 years, starting in 1908. The railway went out of business in 1929, and the community quickly transformed the bridge into a plant lover’s paradise.
The flowers on the bridge are of all shapes, sizes, and colors. The expert gardener on staff plants, plans, and tends to the collection to keep the bridge continuously blooming from April to October.
There are more than 500 types of flowers, vines, and shrubs growing on and draping over the bridge. Visitors can take a leisurely walk across the bridge and read informative signs that describe the name and nature of each plant they encounter.
Traveler’s Tip: The Bridge of Flowers is less than an hour’s drive from The New England Peace Pagoda, where you can escape to a place of tranquility.
Which River Does the Bridge of Flowers Cross?
The Bridge of Flowers crosses the Deerfield River. The Deerfield River is a tributary of the Connecticut River. It runs nearly 80 miles from southern Vermont through northwestern Massachusetts, then back to the Connecticut River.
The river was a significant reason settlers founded the area, and it is one of the most utilized rivers in the nation. There is a dam (on average) every 7 miles, and you’ll see one upstream from the Bridge of Flowers when you visit.
Why Was the Bridge of Flowers Built?
The community built the Bridge of Flowers to make something beautiful from an unsightly failure. It was initially a trolley crossing. After supporting trolley traffic for about 20 years, the bridge sat empty for some time.
However, the surrounding community made the most of the situation by planting an array of vegetation along the sides of the bridge. The idea took root, and the Bridge of Flowers was born.
What Will I Find in Bloom at the Bridge of Flowers?
There are more than 500 plants to explore while visiting the Bridge of Flowers. What is in bloom has everything to do with the time of year you visit.
Luckily, the Bridge of Flowers website has all that information to browse. A quick click on the “In Bloom” section will provide a detailed listing of what you should expect to see in bloom during your visit.
How to Plan Your Visit to the Bridge of Flowers
If all this talk of flora and fauna has piqued your curiosity, you’ll need more specifics to plan your visit. Here are some answers to the more pertinent inquiries you might have.
Dates the Bridge of Flowers Is Open
The Bridge of Flowers is officially open from April 1st to October 31st. The bridge is open to visitors 24 hours a day.
There’s no cost to stroll through the greenery, but there is a donation spot at each end of the bridge. It costs money to tend the garden properly, and donations support the cause.
Pet Policy
Regarding bringing animals on your trek, the pet policy is specific. You can’t bring pets on the bridge unless they are certified service animals. You cannot bring emotional support animals. The strict pet policy for the bridge is likely due to the damage that animals urinating on the flowers can create.
Bathrooms and Other Amenities Nearby
If you need to use the restroom while exploring, there are bathrooms on either side of the bridge. One side has the Village Information Center, which has public restrooms, and the other side has the Buckland Town Hall. There’s even a port-o-potty behind the town hall for emergency restroom breaks.
Where to Stay Near Shelburne Falls, Mass.
If you’re not traveling with a camper or RV, you might need a comfy spot to crash overnight. The good news is that there are a few options for lodging in Shelburne Falls. Check it out!
The Shelburne House Bed & Breakfast
66 Colrain Shelburne Rd, Shelburne Falls, Massachusetts 01370
If you want a cozy Massachusetts feel, the Shelburne House Bed & Breakfast will welcome you. You’ll feel at home in this house, and it has ample room to shelter your whole travel party.
Dancing Bear Guest House
22 Mechanic St, Shelburne Falls, MA 01370
Dancing Bear is a European-style guest house in the heart of the village of Shelburne Falls. This place is an excellent place to stay if you want a delicious breakfast each morning. Just a glance at their website will have your mouth watering.
Hampton Inn & Suites Greenfield
184 Shelburne Road, Greenfield, Massachusetts, 01301
Some travelers want a more traditional hotel stay. If that’s more your style, there’s a quality Hampton Inn near the bridge. The hotel also offers a complimentary hot breakfast to get your day started right.
Country Aire Campground
1753 Mohawk Trail, Charlemont, MA 01370
Perhaps you brought your RV along for the ride. If so, the Country Aire Campground can accommodate you. They have all types of campsites available, and you can even rent a cabin if you prefer.
Is the Bridge of Flowers Worth Adding to Your Bucket List?
You won’t be disappointed when visiting the village of Shelburne Falls. The town is beautiful, and the river running through it adds to the ambiance of the spot. If you love exploring what nature offers, adding the Bridge of Flowers to your itinerary is a must.
Will you visit the bridge on your next adventure?
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