Artist's Covered Bridge
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Artist's Covered Bridge

4.7
·323 reviews·Newry, United States

A historic 1872 covered bridge, beloved by artists and photographers for its picturesque charm and scenic Maine location.

Highlights

Highlights

Must-see attractions

Social content

Social

From TikTok & Reddit

Best Time

Daytime

For best light and visibility

CrowdLow
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Artist's Covered Bridge

Artist's Covered Bridge

Best Time

Daytime

For best light and visibility

CrowdLow
Highlights

Highlights

Must-see attractions

A historic 1872 covered bridge, beloved by artists and photographers for its picturesque charm and scenic Maine location.

4.7
(323 reviews)

"Hands down, a handsome bridge! Nice views from it overlooking a river."

Vertical photo
TIP

📸 Capture the Artistry

This bridge is a painter's and photographer's dream! Visit during daylight for the best shots.

🚗 Plan for Amenities

Restrooms and dining are scarce nearby. Visit Sunday River resort or plan ahead.

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Highlights

Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences

The Historic Bridge

The Historic Bridge

Newry, Maine

A picturesque 1872 covered bridge, a favorite subject for artists and photographers.

Artisan Studio Tours

Artisan Studio Tours

Various locations (e.g., Stockton, NJ; Cedarburg, WI)

Experience local art and crafts during special seasonal studio tours held at or near covered bridges.

River Views

River Views

Along the riverbanks

Enjoy scenic views of the river, perfect for a peaceful moment or a photography session.

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Planning Your Visit

Timing Your Visit

While the Artist's Covered Bridge is technically open 24 hours, it's unlit at night, making daytime visits essential for photos. Consider visiting during an artisan tour for a unique experience.

What to Expect Nearby

The bridge itself is a quick visit. Nearby amenities are limited, so plan for dining and restrooms before or after your stop. The Sunday River resort is a potential option.

Best Times

When
Daytime
Why
For best light and visibility
Crowd
Low
When
During Artisan Tours
Why
Unique local art and crafts
Crowd
Medium

Insider Tips

from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit

Sunday River Bridge, also known as Artists Bridge is located near Newry, Maine. Built in 1872, the bridge is 87 feet long and was closed to traffic in 1958. It is considered the most photographed and painted of the historic covered bridges in Maine. #travelswithcarolyn #mainecoveredbridges #artistscoveredbridge #sundayriverbridge #naturerocks #ilovenature #optoutside #getoutside #oldwomen...
travelswithcarolyn
1.4K likes • 40.6K views

📸 Capture the Artistry

This bridge is a painter's and photographer's dream! Visit during daylight for the best shots. Instagram

🚗 Plan for Amenities

Restrooms and dining are scarce nearby. Visit Sunday River resort or plan ahead. Reddit

Beginning today at 10 AM is the Annual Covered Bridge Artisans Tour. It will be a bit too cold for cleaning up outside today so come on in, see what we’ve been working on and visit artists in their studios. I hope to see you today Friday, Nov 28 - Sunday, Nov 30. 10 AM through 5 PM located at Sandy Ridge Community Church, Stockton, New Jersey. #ecoprintingonfabric #hunterdoncountynj #shopsmallb...
thewearablegarden
1 likes • 56 views
Waterville covered bridge. A historic scene painted many past and present artists! Epic! Beautiful day to paint with @trishwendart
randijanedavis
54 likes • 432 views

🎨 Check Artisan Tour Dates

Look for local artist tours that often coincide with covered bridge visits. Instagram+1

🚶 Quick Walk-Through

The bridge itself is a short walk across, perfect for a brief stop. Reddit

Come visit the farm next weekend (Oct 10-12) for The Cedarburg Artist's Guild Covered Bridge Studio Tour. My hubby's art is on display, and so are a few of my weavings. #29 on the map Special appearance may include Billie the Cat... More info in comments
wildstonewellness
15 likes • 99 views

Tips

from all over the internet

📸 Capture the Artistry

This bridge is a painter's and photographer's dream! Visit during daylight for the best shots. Instagram

🚗 Plan for Amenities

Restrooms and dining are scarce nearby. Visit Sunday River resort or plan ahead. Reddit

🎨 Check Artisan Tour Dates

Look for local artist tours that often coincide with covered bridge visits. Instagram+1

🚶 Quick Walk-Through

The bridge itself is a short walk across, perfect for a brief stop. Reddit

What Travellers Say

4.7
(323 reviews)

Reviews Summary

Visitors find the Artist's Covered Bridge to be a charming and picturesque historic landmark, especially appreciated by artists and photographers. While the bridge itself is a quick and enjoyable visit, some note the lack of nearby amenities and the remote location. The scenic drive is often highlighted as a positive aspect of the overall experience.

"Another New England Historic bridge. Located off the main road there seems to be plenty of parking on both sides of the bridge for multiple cars. Is it accessible. Maybe the entrance is narrow for a wheelchair. And it is a dirt path leading from the parking lot the bridge. Walking across took me 20 seconds each way. There is no bathroom nearby. You’ll probably have to drive to the Sunday River resort nearby. You can walk down to the rivers edge to take pictures. Its technically open 24 hours, but its not lot so you wont see it at night off the main road. I did not see a plaque explaining the history of the bridge. But the sign does say Sunday River 1872. Enjoy"

Abner Bonilla

"Handsome bridge. Nice views from it overlooking a river, unfortunately lacking water. Found a few spots to wade in after walking the path along it though!!"

Mary Goodman

"Was a bit of a drive, and a bit out of the way .. but the scenery was spectacular along the way. This bridge was nice to visit, walk through, and photograph... but just wished there was something more in the immediate area - no town/village; no cute shops; no real restaurants or dining. Just know that it's kinda in the middle of nowhere. But again, the bridge is in good condition and wonderful to visit."

Patrick Scales

What People Like

Historic charm
Photogenic beauty
Scenic drive

What People Dislike

Limited amenities
Remote location

Frequently Asked Questions

🚇 🗺️ Getting There

The Artist's Covered Bridge, often referred to as Sunday River Bridge, is located near Newry, Maine. It's accessible by car, though it's situated off the main road. Parking is available on both sides of the bridge. Reddit

Yes, there is parking available on both sides of the bridge, accommodating multiple vehicles. Reddit

While it's a bit out of the way and not in a town center, the scenic drive often makes the journey enjoyable. Reddit

The drive to the bridge is often described as spectacular and scenic, making the journey part of the experience. Reddit

Public transport options are generally limited for this more remote location. Driving is the most common and practical way to reach the bridge. Reddit

🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry

No, there are no tickets required to visit the Artist's Covered Bridge. It is generally accessible to the public. Reddit

The bridge is technically open 24 hours, but it is unlit at night, making daytime visits ideal for viewing and photography. Reddit

There is no entrance fee to walk across or view the Artist's Covered Bridge. Reddit

Yes, keep an eye out for local 'Covered Bridge Artisans Tour' events, which offer a unique opportunity to see local art and meet artists. Instagram+2

While a plaque detailing the full history might be absent, signs indicate the bridge's construction year (e.g., 1872 for Sunday River Bridge). Reddit

📸 📸 Photography & Art

Daylight hours are best for capturing the bridge's charm and surrounding scenery. The bridge is unlit at night. Reddit

Absolutely! It's renowned as one of the most photographed and painted covered bridges in Maine, attracting many artists. Instagram+1

You can capture classic shots of the bridge itself, as well as scenic views of the river and surrounding nature. Reddit

Generally, there are no specific photography restrictions for personal use. Always be respectful of the site and any ongoing events. Instagram

Drone usage regulations vary by location. It's advisable to check local drone laws and guidelines before flying near the bridge. Instagram

🎫 🚶 Onsite Experience

Walking across the bridge itself takes only about 20 seconds each way. It's a quick stop, but the scenic drive can add to the overall time. Reddit

The entrance to the bridge might be narrow for wheelchairs, and the path from the parking lot is dirt, which could pose challenges. Reddit

There are no bathrooms directly at the bridge. You may need to drive to a nearby resort like Sunday River for facilities. Reddit

You can walk down to the river's edge for different photo angles or enjoy the natural scenery. Reddit

The bridge is reported to be in good condition and is a safe structure to walk through. Reddit

For Different Travelers

Tailored advice for your travel style

👨‍👩‍👧 Families with Kids

The Artist's Covered Bridge offers a quick, engaging stop for families. Kids can enjoy walking through the historic structure and exploring the riverbanks for a bit of nature play. However, be prepared for limited facilities; pack snacks and plan restroom breaks before or after your visit. Reddit

Consider visiting during a local artisan tour if available, as this can add an element of discovery and provide opportunities to see unique crafts. The scenic drive to the bridge can also be an adventure in itself for younger travelers. Instagram

📸 Photographers & Artists

This bridge is a dream destination! Its historical architecture and natural setting make it a prime subject for capturing stunning photographs or creating paintings. Visit during daylight hours for the best light and to appreciate the details. Instagram+1

Explore different angles from the riverbanks and consider visiting during an artisan tour to see how other artists interpret the scene. The bridge's reputation as a beloved subject means you'll find plenty of inspiration. Instagram

🚗 Road Trippers

The Artist's Covered Bridge is an excellent, albeit brief, stop on a scenic road trip. The journey to the bridge is often highlighted as beautiful, making it a perfect addition to a longer itinerary. Reddit

Plan your stops for gas, food, and restrooms in advance, as amenities near the bridge are scarce. This allows for a more relaxed experience, focusing on enjoying the bridge and the surrounding scenery without logistical worries. Reddit

Deep Dives

In-depth insights and expert knowledge

The Art of the Covered Bridge

The Artist's Covered Bridge, particularly the Sunday River Bridge in Maine, is celebrated for its aesthetic appeal, making it a magnet for artists and photographers. Its historical significance as a functional structure from the 19th century adds to its charm. Many creators share their artistic interpretations, from oil paintings to digital art, highlighting the bridge's enduring beauty. Instagram+1

Beyond just the structure, the surrounding natural landscape often plays a crucial role in the artistic appeal. The way the bridge integrates with the trees, rivers, and changing seasons provides endless inspiration. This connection between man-made history and natural beauty is what draws visitors and artists alike, seeking to capture its essence. Reddit

When visiting, consider the time of day for optimal lighting, which is crucial for both photography and painting. Early mornings or late afternoons often provide softer, more dramatic light. If you're lucky, you might even encounter artists at work, adding another layer to your experience. Instagram

Navigating Artisan Tours

Several regions host 'Covered Bridge Artisan Tours,' transforming a visit to a historic bridge into a cultural event. These tours often feature multiple artists showcasing their work in studios near the bridges, offering a chance to purchase unique, locally-made items. Instagram+2

These events are a fantastic way to support local creatives and discover handcrafted goods, from paintings and pottery to textiles and jewelry. Some tours even offer refreshments or a chance to meet the artists personally, making for a more engaging and personal shopping experience. Instagram

To make the most of an artisan tour, check local event listings for dates and locations. Some tours might have maps or designated routes, helping you navigate between studios efficiently. It's a great way to combine sightseeing with a unique shopping opportunity. Instagram

The Experience of Visiting a Remote Landmark

Visiting a landmark like the Artist's Covered Bridge often means venturing to a more secluded location. While the bridge itself is a point of interest, the immediate surroundings might lack extensive amenities like shops or restaurants. This remoteness, however, contributes to its charm and tranquility. Reddit

Travelers often note that while the bridge is a worthwhile stop, it's best to combine it with other activities or plan your stops for food and facilities beforehand. The scenic drive to and from the bridge can be a significant part of the experience, offering beautiful landscapes. Reddit

Despite the lack of immediate conveniences, the historical significance and picturesque nature of the bridge make it a rewarding destination for those seeking a quieter, more focused experience with a piece of history and nature. Reddit

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