The first Bridgeton covered bridge was a double-span Burr Arch bridge built in 1868 by a crew led by J. J. Daniels. It was closed to traffic in 1967. It was built to replace two prior open wooden bridges that had fallen in. After its destruction by fire, it was replaced in 2006 by a reproduction.
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Parke County Covered Bridge Festival
4.7
(23)
The Bean Shack
5.0
(2)
Every October, Bridgeton turns into something straight out of a postcard. You drive in over the hills and suddenly you see the old mill, the covered bridge, and the creek glinting in the morning sun — it’s just magic. The trees are showing off every shade of fall, the air smells like kettle corn and campfire, and there’s this hum of people just happy to be here.
The little town fills up with vendors, all tucked in around the Waterfall View Barn and the old buildings. You’ll see everything from handmade pottery and wood carvings to homemade fudge, leather goods, and the kind of little treasures you only find at festivals like this. Everyone’s smiling, and you’ll hear “Where are y’all from?” at least a dozen times before lunch.
Down by the mill, you can grab a hot cider, watch the water roll under the bridge, and just take a breather. It’s busy, sure — but somehow it still feels small-town cozy. You might even hear a banjo or two echoing from somewhere in the crowd.
If you come out, wear comfy shoes, dress in layers, and bring your appetite — the food smells alone will get you. There’s always something new to see, but somehow it always feels like...
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Went here for the Covered Bridge days festival. Absolutely LOVED it. More booths/vendors/merchandise than I could ever recount. We definitely saw the same merchandise at several booths, but...there was So much variety throughout the festival that it didnt matter a bit! Some of the state's most favorite shops were represented here. The available food choices were great and at expected prices. Many new product lines and ideas were available.
Our plan was to spend one day here and then one day at Mansfield. Instead, we spent a day and a half in Bridgeton and an hour in Mansfield. Next year we will spend 2 days in Bridgeton with a hotel stay. Trying to enjoy the entirety of the festival in one day is much too exhausting. Very much looking forward...
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This review is mainly for the covered bridge festival or C.B. in Parke County. We prefer this location now for over 20+ years. It has remained the go too place for home made craft items. They offer high quality clothing and crafts. Very diverse offerings. Food is good plenty of parking. This year, 2024 is the first time I have seen this many additional Vendors. They are in areas where they weren't before and I am talking about pre covid. Weekends are always busy so find a back way over and leave early. Oh, take CASH! They are now charging 3% fee to you your Credit card. New this year. ATMs are available but they charge...
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