This Indiana County Has An Entire Fall Festival Dedicated to Covered Bridges

There are over 30 covered bridges located within the county alone.

This feels like something ripped straight out of Gilmore Girls and Stars Hollow! At least for a Millennial like myself, once I turned 35 it was like a switch just flipped; suddenly I'm obsessed with bird watching and covered bridges.

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Wasn't anyone going to warn me?

We've got a handful of covered bridges here in The Mitten, several of which are open to vehicular traffic, but if you are looking for the mecca of covered bridges you need to make the short drive down to Indiana to the Covered Bridge Capital of the World.

Parke County, Indiana

In fact, there are so many historic covered bridges in this county alone they've dedicated an entire 10-day festival to it!

31 Covered Bridges all found in a rustic, charming setting. Each covered bridge comes with its own unique past.

Does that sound adorable or what?

Founded in 1957 the annual event takes place the second Friday in October; this year the Parke County Covered Bridge Festival runs October 11-20, 2024. Plan on traveling to 9 different communities scattered throughout the county, each hosting their own celebration honoring their unique place in Indiana's history.

If you love local produce, baked goods, artisan crafts, and fall foliage then this is the place for you! And me. It sounds like a one stop shop for all my favorite fall activities-- covered bridges included.

It's about a 5 hour drive down to Parke County from West Michigan so you'll definitely want to plan to stay overnight and make a weekend of it. I bet you could find a quaint Airbnb or actual bed & breakfast and make some great lasting memories. Check out festivals past below: