Covered Bridge Outside New Hope, PA
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Van Sant Covered Bridge

4.7
·96 reviews·New Hope, United States

A historic 1875 covered bridge in Bucks County, PA, famous for its 'Cry Baby Bridge' legend and eerie atmosphere.

Highlights

Highlights

Must-see attractions

Social content

Social

From TikTok & Reddit

Best Time

Early mornings

Fewer crowds, soft light

CrowdLow
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Covered Bridge Outside New Hope, PA

Van Sant Covered Bridge

Best Time

Early mornings

Fewer crowds, soft light

CrowdLow
Highlights

Highlights

Must-see attractions

A historic 1875 covered bridge in Bucks County, PA, famous for its 'Cry Baby Bridge' legend and eerie atmosphere.

4.7
(96 reviews)

"A spooky-beautiful slice of Bucks County history! Pure magic with mist, fall leaves, and that eerie stillness."

Vertical photo
TIP

🚗 Parking Availability

Parking can be limited, especially on weekends. Arrive early or be prepared to walk a short distance.

👻 Embrace the Legend

Many visitors report spooky experiences. Listen closely and be open to the bridge's eerie tales.

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Highlights

Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences

The Bridge Itself

The Bridge Itself

Pitcock Creek

An 86-foot historic covered bridge, built in 1875, offering a picturesque glimpse into the past.

Cry Baby Bridge Legend

Cry Baby Bridge Legend

The bridge's chilling local legend adds an eerie allure, attracting those interested in ghost stories and paranormal activity.

Scenic Bucks County Setting

Scenic Bucks County Setting

Nestled in the charming landscape of Bucks County, PA, the bridge is surrounded by natural beauty perfect for a peaceful stroll.

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Planning Your Visit

Embrace the Legend

Van Sant Covered Bridge is steeped in local legend, often called 'Cry Baby Bridge.' Visitors report eerie experiences, making it a popular spot for paranormal enthusiasts and those seeking a touch of mystery. Come prepared for a unique, atmospheric visit.

Timing is Key for Photos

While the bridge is accessible year-round, consider visiting during off-peak hours for the best photo opportunities. Early mornings or late afternoons can offer softer light and fewer crowds, allowing you to capture the bridge's historic charm without distraction.

Best Times

When
Early mornings
Why
Fewer crowds, soft light
Crowd
Low
When
Late afternoons
Why
Golden hour for photos
Crowd
Medium
When
Autumn
Why
Fall foliage beauty
Crowd
Medium

Insider Tips

from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit

Cry baby bridge in bucks county pa. New hope pa Van Sant Covered Bridge #vansantcoveredbridge #buckscounty #buckscountypa #crybabybridge #newhopepa #urbanLegend #pacheck #hauntedpa #OneSliceChallenge #halloween #hauntedbridge
penn_paranormal
660 likes • 22.4K views

🚗 Parking Availability

Parking can be limited, especially on weekends. Arrive early or be prepared to walk a short distance. Reddit

👻 Embrace the Legend

Many visitors report spooky experiences. Listen closely and be open to the bridge's eerie tales. Reddit

Have you ever done the Bucks County Covered Bridge tour? Let me know in the comments if you’ve ever toured Van Sant bridge
melissawhitekwdoylestown
4 likes • 179 views
<3 #coveredbridge Van Sant Covered Bridge in Bucks County PA #buckscountypa #buckscounty #vansantcoveredbridge
inmalaland
10 likes • 205 views

📸 Perfect Photo Spot

The bridge offers great photo ops, especially with minimal traffic. Capture its historic charm. Reddit

🚶‍♀️ Explore the Area

Combine your visit with a scenic drive or explore nearby attractions like New Hope. Reddit

🎃HAPPY HALLOWEEN‼️Looking to visit the MOST haunted place in Bucks County PA? Check out the Van Sant Covered Bridge (or spelled Van Sandt) Covered Bridge Rd, New Hope PA. “AS THE LEGEND GOES, MANY years ago a young woman got pregnant out of wedlock. Her family wanted nothing to do with her and her child. So upset was she by this that after giving birth, she crept out in the middle of the night wit...
buckscountymama
114 likes • 2.4K views

Tips

from all over the internet

🚗 Parking Availability

Parking can be limited, especially on weekends. Arrive early or be prepared to walk a short distance. Reddit

👻 Embrace the Legend

Many visitors report spooky experiences. Listen closely and be open to the bridge's eerie tales. Reddit

📸 Perfect Photo Spot

The bridge offers great photo ops, especially with minimal traffic. Capture its historic charm. Reddit

🚶‍♀️ Explore the Area

Combine your visit with a scenic drive or explore nearby attractions like New Hope. Reddit

🕰️ Check Local Legends

Research the 'Cry Baby Bridge' story beforehand to enhance your visit. Reddit

What Travellers Say

4.7
(96 reviews)

Reviews Summary

Visitors praise Van Sant Covered Bridge for its historic charm and the captivating 'Cry Baby Bridge' legend, making it a unique and atmospheric stop. While parking can be limited and the stories are eerie, the picturesque setting and photo opportunities are consistently highlighted as major draws.

"⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
“A spooky-beautiful slice of Bucks County history!”
We stopped by Cry Baby Bridge in New Hope, PA for a Halloween photo shoot, and it was pure magic 👻✨ The mix of mist, fall leaves, and that eerie stillness made it feel like stepping into a local legend. It’s the kind of place that reminds you why Bucks County has such timeless charm — full of stories, mystery, and heart.

📍 Captured by Alicia Cacossa | eXp Realty | Invest with Confidence"

Alicia Cacossa - Real Estate Agent

"First bridge of our Bucks County tour - and was amazing - sort of out of the way from all the other bridges, but we’ll worth the detour. Had ample parking on the South side of the bridge and very little to NO traffic for picture taking."

CD “TravelFamily11” S

"My wife and I enjoy stopping by covered bridges. We've hit most between PA and Maryland. Each has its own neat little back story, small tweak in design, or local landmark near by that makes it unique to others.

Van Sandts unique and eerie story is one of a local girl, who after dropping her baby from the bridge, hanged herself. Some say you can still hear the cries of the baby. For this, it's often called "cry baby bridge"

Not much room for parking at all, but it's still worth making a visit and finding a spot to walk from, especially if you like covered bridges and scary stories"

John

What People Like

Historic architecture
Eerie legends
Photogenic setting

What People Dislike

Limited parking
Spooky stories

Frequently Asked Questions

🚇 🗺️ Getting There

Van Sant Covered Bridge is located on Covered Bridge Road in New Hope, PA. It's accessible by car, and many visitors combine it with a tour of other covered bridges in Bucks County. Reddit Some GPS systems might have slight variations in naming, so looking for 'Van Sant Covered Bridge' or 'Beaver Dam Bridge' near Pitcock Creek is recommended. TikTok

Public transportation options directly to the bridge are limited. It's best accessed by private vehicle. Consider it part of a scenic drive through Bucks County. Reddit

Many visitors enjoy a self-guided covered bridge tour. The official Bucks County tourism website offers suggested routes. Reddit The Van Sant bridge is often a unique stop on these tours. TikTok

Yes, the bridge is near New Hope, PA, known for its charming shops, galleries, and restaurants. Washington's Crossing Historic Park is also a popular nearby destination. Reddit

The roads leading to the bridge are generally well-maintained, but can be narrow and winding in some areas, typical of rural Bucks County. Drive cautiously. Instagram

🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry

No, there is no admission fee to visit Van Sant Covered Bridge. It is a public historical site. TikTok

The bridge is accessible at all times, as it is an outdoor historical landmark. However, visiting during daylight hours is recommended for safety and visibility. TikTok

There is no entrance fee. Access to the Van Sant Covered Bridge is free for all visitors. TikTok

While the bridge is technically accessible at night, it is not recommended due to lack of lighting and potential safety concerns. Many paranormal investigations occur at night, but for general visits, daylight is best. Reddit

General public access is permitted. However, visitors should respect the historical nature of the site and avoid vandalism or littering. TikTok

📸 📸 Photography & Legends

The legend tells of a young woman who, after an out-of-wedlock pregnancy, dropped her baby from the bridge and then hanged herself. Some claim to hear the baby's cries. TikTokReddit+1

Yes, it is widely considered one of the most haunted places in Bucks County, with many visitors reporting paranormal experiences. TikTokReddit+1

Early mornings and late afternoons offer the best light for photography. Autumn, with its fall foliage, also provides a beautiful backdrop. TikTokInstagram

Absolutely! The interior of the covered bridge is a key photographic subject, showcasing its wooden structure and historical ambiance. TikTok

The entrance and exit points of the bridge, as well as the view from within looking out, are popular for capturing its essence. TikTok

🎫 🚶‍♀️ Onsite Experience

Visitors can admire the historic architecture, learn about its local legends, take photos, and enjoy the surrounding natural scenery. TikTok+1

The bridge itself is accessible via a relatively flat path. However, parking can be limited, and the surrounding terrain might be uneven. Reddit

Restroom facilities are not typically available directly at the bridge. Visitors may need to use facilities in nearby New Hope or Washington's Crossing. Reddit

Yes, you can walk across the Van Sant Covered Bridge. It's a short and pleasant experience. TikTok

Comfortable walking shoes are recommended, especially if you plan to explore the surrounding area. Dress for the weather. Instagram

For Different Travelers

Tailored advice for your travel style

👻 Paranormal Enthusiasts

If you're drawn to the unexplained, Van Sant Covered Bridge is a must-visit. Known as 'Cry Baby Bridge,' it's a hotspot for paranormal activity, with many visitors reporting eerie encounters and unexplained phenomena. TikTokReddit+1 Bring your spirit box and ghost hunting gear, and be prepared for a potentially chilling experience, especially during the quieter hours. Remember to be respectful of the site and its history while you explore its haunted reputation. Reddit

📸 Photographers & History Buffs

For those who appreciate history and stunning visuals, the Van Sant Covered Bridge offers both. Its 1875 construction and picturesque setting make it an ideal subject for photography, especially during the golden hours or amidst autumn foliage. TikTokInstagram History buffs will be fascinated by its architectural details and the rich, albeit somber, local legends that surround it. Reddit Consider incorporating it into a broader Bucks County covered bridge tour for a comprehensive historical and scenic experience. Reddit

🚗 Scenic Drivers

If you enjoy leisurely drives through charming countryside, the Van Sant Covered Bridge is a perfect addition to your route. It's part of the scenic beauty of Bucks County, and many visitors combine it with a tour of other historic covered bridges in the area. Reddit The drive itself offers lovely views, and the bridge provides a unique historical stop along the way. Instagram

Deep Dives

In-depth insights and expert knowledge

The Legend of Cry Baby Bridge

Van Sant Covered Bridge is famously known as 'Cry Baby Bridge,' a moniker steeped in a chilling local legend. The story, often recounted by visitors and locals alike, speaks of a young woman who became pregnant out of wedlock. Shunned by her family, she is said to have given birth and then tragically dropped her infant from the bridge before taking her own life. This tale has led many to believe the bridge is haunted, with some claiming to hear the faint cries of a baby on quiet nights. TikTokReddit+1 This eerie backstory adds a layer of mystery and intrigue, drawing paranormal enthusiasts and those fascinated by local folklore to experience the atmosphere firsthand. TikTok

Many visitors come specifically to investigate these claims, reporting unusual sounds, feelings, or even visual phenomena. While the legend is a significant part of the bridge's identity, it's important to approach such stories with an open mind and respect for the historical site. The bridge's secluded location and the surrounding natural beauty only enhance the sense of mystery and the potential for an unforgettable, albeit spooky, experience. Reddit

Capturing the Charm: Photography at Van Sant

The Van Sant Covered Bridge, with its rustic wooden structure and picturesque setting over Pitcock Creek, is a photographer's delight. Built in 1875, its historic architecture offers a timeless appeal, making it a popular subject for both amateur and professional photographers. TikTokInstagram The bridge's interior, with its exposed beams and weathered wood, provides a unique perspective, while the exterior shots capture its integration into the natural landscape of Bucks County. TikTok

For the best photographic results, consider visiting during the 'golden hours' – shortly after sunrise or before sunset. The soft, warm light at these times can dramatically enhance the bridge's textures and colors, creating a more atmospheric and visually appealing image. TikTok Autumn is particularly stunning, as the surrounding trees burst into vibrant fall foliage, providing a colorful backdrop. Instagram Be mindful of the limited parking and potential for crowds, especially on weekends or during special events, as this can impact your ability to set up for the perfect shot. Reddit

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