Flowers on the bridge
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Bridge of Flowers

4.8
·3k reviews·Shelburne, United States

A historic trolley bridge transformed into a vibrant, mile-long garden overflowing with thousands of colorful flowers and shrubs.

Highlights

Highlights

Must-see attractions

Social content

Social

From TikTok & Reddit

Best Time

Summer mornings

Peak bloom & fewer crowds

CrowdLow
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Flowers on the bridge

Bridge of Flowers

Best Time

Summer mornings

Peak bloom & fewer crowds

CrowdLow
Highlights

Highlights

Must-see attractions

A historic trolley bridge transformed into a vibrant, mile-long garden overflowing with thousands of colorful flowers and shrubs.

4.8
(3k reviews)

"This place is beautiful, with many different species of flowers and plants that look amazing."

Vertical photo
TIP

Check Opening Status

Renovations can impact access. Always check before you go!

Wear Comfy Shoes

You'll want to stroll the entire length of this beautiful floral walkway. :athletic_shoe:

Third hero image

Highlights

Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences

A Floral Tapestry

A Floral Tapestry

The entire bridge

Thousands of vibrant flowers and shrubs create a breathtaking, colorful walkway over the Deerfield River.

River Views

River Views

Along the bridge

Enjoy picturesque views of the Deerfield River and the surrounding charming town of Shelburne Falls.

Macro Photography Haven

Macro Photography Haven

Among the blooms

Perfect spot for close-up shots of diverse flowers and buzzing bees, capturing intricate details.

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Planning Your Visit

Timing is Everything

The Bridge of Flowers is a seasonal attraction, typically open from late spring through fall. Check opening dates as renovations can affect access. Early mornings or late afternoons offer the best light for photos and fewer crowds.

Renovations & Access

While the bridge is generally open, be aware that renovations may be ongoing. Check the official status before your visit to ensure full access. The bridge is a pedestrian walkway, so comfortable shoes are a must for exploring its length.

Best Times

When
Summer mornings
Why
Peak bloom & fewer crowds
Crowd
Low
When
Late spring
Why
Early blooms emerge
Crowd
Low
When
Early fall
Why
Late season colors
Crowd
Medium

Insider Tips

from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit

Bridge of Flowers 8K winner Jenna Gigliotti of Amherst, MA. #newenglandrunner #bridgeofflowers #roadrace
newenglandrunner
65 likes • 1.4K views

Check Opening Status

Renovations can impact access. Always check before you go! Instagram

Wear Comfy Shoes

You'll want to stroll the entire length of this beautiful floral walkway. :athletic_shoe:

Bridge of Flowers Status Update as of 6/4/24 🌸🌿 The Bridge of Flowers in Shelburne Falls is currently open while renovations are being prepared to start this summer. This historic flower bridge has been open to visitors since 1929, when it was transformed from what used to be a trolley bridge. Visitors can enjoy a walk through gardens that line the pathway on the bridge. 🚧 These renovations wi...
newenglandchickadee
478 likes • 11.8K views
Annual Bridge of Flowers road race today: 3K and 8K, which has a horrendous hill. #running #roadrace #bridgeofflowers #bridgeofflowers8k
joanlivingston_author
25 likes • 292 views

Photography Paradise

Ideal for macro shots of flowers and bees. Bring your best camera! :camerawithflash:

Combine with Town Visit

Explore Shelburne Falls' shops and eateries after your bridge visit. :world_map:

reddit.com

Visiting the north Berkshires in the fall— I would love some local input!

Tips

from all over the internet

Check Opening Status

Renovations can impact access. Always check before you go! Instagram

Wear Comfy Shoes

You'll want to stroll the entire length of this beautiful floral walkway. :athletic_shoe:

Photography Paradise

Ideal for macro shots of flowers and bees. Bring your best camera! :camerawithflash:

Combine with Town Visit

Explore Shelburne Falls' shops and eateries after your bridge visit. :world_map:

What Travellers Say

4.8
(3k reviews)

Reviews Summary

Visitors consistently praise the Bridge of Flowers for its stunning beauty and vibrant floral displays, calling it a 'beautiful place' and 'just so lovely.' Many appreciate the variety of flowers and the well-maintained gardens, finding it a perfect spot for a peaceful stroll and photography. Some note that it's a relatively quick visit, ideal for combining with exploration of Shelburne Falls.

"I know about this town due they're coffee and quality of food.

With the wify, we organized a day a little bit far from our common area and this was one of the stops.

The place by itself it is beautiful, it is in a river surrounded by small mountains. The size will be around a short block or a couple of blocks walking. They have many many different species for flowers, ferns and other plans and all looks amazing.

This place it is a quick will, you come visit this flower bridge, have great fun and after that you can explore the area.

I do recommend visiting this place 100%."

Jorge Velarde

"Beautiful place. It's a small narrow bridge over the Deerfield river, that used to be a trolley way which was converted into a walkway with flowers on either side. So many different types of flowers, lots of bees buzzing near the flowers. Very nice place for some macro photos"

Krishna Venbakkam

"Just so lovely. This is the new one after the old one had to come down since it was more than 100 years old, so the flowers will be even more abundant and established in a few years. At the end of the season it was packed with gorgeous zinnias, marigolds, late petunias, etc. Definitely worth the trip."

Magda Pecsenye

What People Like

Stunning floral displays
Beautiful river views
Peaceful atmosphere

What People Dislike

Can be crowded
Seasonal access

Frequently Asked Questions

🚇 🗺️ Getting There

The Bridge of Flowers is located in Shelburne Falls, Massachusetts. It's accessible by car, with parking available in the town. Many visitors combine a trip to the bridge with exploring the charming shops and restaurants in Shelburne Falls itself. Reddit

Yes, there is parking available in Shelburne Falls, often near the town center and the bridge. It's advisable to arrive earlier in the day, especially during peak season, to secure a spot. Reddit

Public transport options to Shelburne Falls might be limited. It's best to check local bus routes or consider it as part of a scenic drive through Western Massachusetts. Reddit

Many visitors enjoy walking across the bridge and then exploring the unique shops and art galleries in Shelburne Falls. The town is very walkable and has a quaint, friendly atmosphere. Reddit

The bridge itself is a walkway and generally accessible. However, it's always a good idea to check for any temporary accessibility updates, especially if there are ongoing renovations. Instagram

🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry

The Bridge of Flowers is typically free to enter and visit. It's a public walkway transformed into a garden. Instagram

The bridge is usually open seasonally, from late spring through fall. Specific hours can vary, and it's best to check the official status as it may be closed for maintenance or renovations. Instagram

The season generally runs from late May or early June through October, depending on the weather and bloom cycles. Instagram

Yes, the Bridge of Flowers hosts an annual road race (8K and 3K) which is a popular local event. TikTokInstagram

Access during renovations can vary. It's crucial to check for official updates as some parts might be accessible while others are temporarily closed. Instagram

📸 📸 Photography

Early morning or late afternoon provides the best natural light for photography, minimizing harsh shadows and capturing the vibrant colors of the flowers. TikTok

The bridge is perfect for landscape shots of the floral displays, close-up macro photography of individual flowers and insects, and scenic views of the river. Reddit

Drone usage is typically restricted in public parks and attractions. It's best to check local regulations or signage at the bridge to confirm. Reddit

For macro shots, use a wider aperture (lower f-number) to blur the background and focus on the subject. For landscapes, a smaller aperture (higher f-number) will keep more of the scene in focus. Reddit

For professional or large-scale photoshoots, it's advisable to contact the local authorities or park management to inquire about permits or specific guidelines. Reddit

🎫 🌸 Onsite Experience

You can stroll along the bridge, admire the diverse floral arrangements, enjoy the river views, and take photos. Benches are available for resting and soaking in the atmosphere. Reddit

A visit typically takes about 30 minutes to an hour, depending on how much time you spend admiring the flowers and taking photos. Reddit

Restroom facilities may be available in the nearby town of Shelburne Falls, but not directly on the bridge itself. Reddit

Yes, children can enjoy the colorful flowers and the novelty of walking across a bridge lined with plants. It's a gentle and visually stimulating experience. Reddit

You'll find a wide variety of flowers and shrubs, including zinnias, marigolds, petunias, ferns, and many other seasonal blooms, creating a rich tapestry of colors. Reddit

For Different Travelers

Tailored advice for your travel style

👨‍👩‍👧 Families with Kids

The Bridge of Flowers offers a delightful and accessible experience for families. Children will be captivated by the vibrant colors and the sheer number of flowers. It's a safe, pedestrian-only space where kids can walk freely and marvel at the blooms. The relatively short length of the bridge makes it manageable for little legs, and the presence of benches provides opportunities for rest. It's a wonderful way to introduce children to the beauty of nature and gardening in a fun, engaging setting. Reddit

Consider making a day of it by exploring the rest of Shelburne Falls, which often has charming ice cream shops or small parks nearby. The visual stimulation of the flowers can also be a great precursor to discussions about different plant types and the importance of pollinators like bees, which are often visible on the bridge. Reddit

📸 Photographers

For photographers, the Bridge of Flowers is a dream location. The dense floral arrangements provide endless opportunities for stunning macro shots, capturing the intricate details of petals, stamens, and visiting insects. The natural light filtering through the blooms creates beautiful bokeh effects, perfect for artistic compositions. Reddit

Beyond close-ups, the bridge offers picturesque vistas of the Deerfield River and the surrounding New England landscape. Golden hour, just after sunrise or before sunset, offers the most flattering light for both floral and landscape photography. Remember to be respectful of other visitors and avoid blocking pathways while you capture your shots. TikTok

Deep Dives

In-depth insights and expert knowledge

History and Transformation

The Bridge of Flowers in Shelburne Falls, Massachusetts, has a unique history. Originally built in 1908 as a trolley bridge, it served the community for decades. When trolley service ceased, the bridge faced an uncertain future. In a remarkable act of community spirit and vision, it was transformed into a pedestrian walkway lined with thousands of flowers and shrubs, officially opening in 1929. This transformation turned a piece of industrial infrastructure into a beloved public garden and a symbol of the town's creativity. Instagram

This conversion has allowed the bridge to become a vibrant attraction, showcasing a diverse array of plant life throughout the warmer months. The ongoing care and planting ensure a constantly changing display, making each visit potentially unique. The bridge's story is a testament to repurposing and the enduring appeal of natural beauty. Reddit

Seasonal Blooms and Biodiversity

The Bridge of Flowers is renowned for its spectacular seasonal displays. From late spring through fall, the bridge bursts with color, featuring a wide variety of flowers, perennials, and shrubs. Visitors can expect to see popular blooms like zinnias, marigolds, petunias, and a host of other carefully curated plants that thrive in the local climate. The careful selection of species ensures a continuous show of color and texture throughout the growing season. Reddit

Beyond its aesthetic appeal, the bridge also serves as a small but vital habitat for local pollinators. The abundance of flowers attracts bees, butterflies, and other beneficial insects, making it a fascinating spot for observing nature up close. This biodiversity adds another layer of appreciation for the garden's ecological role within the community. Reddit

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