Bridge of Flowers

The Bridge of Flowers. Kerry Wolfe (Atlas Obscura User)

The Bridge of Flowers in Shelburne Falls, Massachusetts, is touted as “the only one of its kind in the world.” The 400-foot long bridge is a plant-lover’s paradise, as it’s covered in flowers expertly planted to ensure they bloom continuously from April to October.

The bridge’s famous flora includes 500 varieties of flowers, vines, and shrubs, many of the rare or historical varieties. The plants, which hug either side of the narrow walkway across the bridge, are labeled to satisfy the curiosity of interested visitors.

The bridge was built for trolleys in 1908. In 1929, after the railway went out of business, the structure was reborn as the Bridge of Flowers. In 1983, it was completely renovated at a cost of a half-million dollars and under the expertise of a local horticulturalist. Today, its upkeep relies on a paid gardener and volunteer help from the Shelburne Falls Women’s Club.

Update as of January 2024: Plantings are being removed in preparation for extensive structural repairs on the bridge. The bridge will be closed for the 2024 growing season.

Know Before You Go

From the East: Follow Route 2 for 12 miles from the Greenfield Interstate 91 rotary (Exit 26). Turn at the sign "2A West, Shelburne Falls, Buckland", by the Sweetheart Restaurant. Another quick left, following the "2A West" sign, brings you to Bridge Street. Drop by the Village Information Center at 75 Bridge Street, across the street from the Bank of Western Massachusetts.From the West: Turn at the "2A East, Shelburne Falls" sign onto State Street for .6 of a mile into the Buckland side of the village. Additional parking is available up the hill toward the Salmon Falls Marketplace. On your left, just before the railroad tracks, is a large parking area; follow the signs.