23 Bridges in PENNSYLVANIA (Covered, Massive, & Scary)

In Pennsylvania, there’s more than one way to cross a river, but why not cross them on stunning, historical, or uniquely-engineered bridges?

This great state is full of bridges of almost every kind, some modern and some historic.

Specifically, Pennsylvania is famous for having over 200 covered bridges, of which there are only about 1,600 on Earth.

Bridge hunters worldwide travel to Pennsylvania to witness these unique structures.

If covered bridges aren’t your thing, there’s bound to be at least a few that tickle your fancy.

Time to take a state-wide journey from Pittsburgh all the way to Philly to find the 23 most phenomenal bridges in Pennsylvania!

Bridges in Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania

1. Roberto Clemente Bridge (Sixth Street Bridge)

This bridge is currently closed through December 2023 for renovations, but it’s usually a hotspot for tourists or locals craving gorgeous views of Pittsburgh.

You can spot PNC stadium from this charming bridge and take stunning pictures with the Allegheny River as your backdrop.

It’s undergone major reconstruction three times since it was first built in 1819.

Many locks are scattered along the bridge, making it a romantic destination for couples.

Families will also enjoy a leisurely stroll down this yellow walkway.

On 7th and 9th Street, there are two identical bridges.

These three bridges are known as the “Three Sisters” bridges.

Baseball star Roberto Clemente was a Puerto Rican player on the Pittsburgh Pirates team, and the bridge was named after him in the 1960s.

Address: 6th St., Pittsburgh, PA 15222, U.S.

2. Andy Warhol Bridge

The Andy Warhol Bridge is bright yellow, making a statement in the middle of Pittsburgh.

It’s a short walk from the Warhol Museum on 7th Street and offers pedestrian walkways.

Many people don’t know this is the only bridge in the United States that was named after a visual artist.

Andy Warhol was part of the American pop art movement, and it was named after him in 2005 in commemoration of the tenth anniversary of the Warhol Museum.

So, if you’re planning on visiting the Warhol Museum, it’s worth stopping by this big yellow bridge for a photoshoot!

In 2013, people covered the bridge in crocheted or knitted yarn as part of a massive yarn project called Knit the Bridge.

It’s also one of the Three Sisters Bridges, along with the Roberto Clemente Bridge and the Rachel Carson Bridge on either side.

Address: 7th St., Pittsburgh, PA 15222, U.S.

3. Rachel Carson Bridge

The Rachel Carson Bridge is the third of the Three Sisters bridges in downtown Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania.

It runs over the Allegheny River with car lanes and a pedestrian walkway.

Rachel Carson, whom the bridge was named after, was an American writer, conservationist, and Pittsburgh native.

In 2019, the city closed this bridge to allow for a major rehabilitation project that changed the number of car lanes from four to three (the middle lane changes direction according to the time of day).

This sturdy bridge is 840 feet (260 meters) long and 78 feet (24 meters) tall.

The other two of the Three Sister bridges are less than half a mile away, so when this bridge is closed, traffic diverts to those.

Tourists exploring downtown Pittsburgh are sure to step foot on or drive down the splendid Rachel Carson Bridge!

Address: 9th St., Pittsburgh, PA 15222, U.S.

Bridges in Gettysburg, Pennsylvania

1. Sachs Covered Bridge

Sachs Covered Bridge is a stunning 100-foot (30m) truss-covered bridge over Marsh Creek in Adams County, a short drive outside downtown Gettysburg.

Its history is so rich that it’s listed on the National Register of Historic Places.

During the Battle of Gettysburg in the American Civil War, troops on both sides used this sturdy bridge.

As a result, many consider it haunted, and ghost tours are popular among tourists.

Its fascinating history is more spooky when tourists listen to it via a horse-carriage tour.

In 1938, the bridge was dubbed Pennsylvania’s “most historic bridge.”

Wooden beams crisscross over the top of this beautifully-designed bridge to form what’s known as a “lattice,” one of the few remained bridges of its kind in Pennsylvania.

According to TripAdvisor, it’s the state’s most famous bridge for tourists.

Address: Waterworks Rd, Gettysburg, PA 17325, U.S.

2. Jacks Mountain Covered Bridge

Jacks Mountain Bridge in Adams County near Gettysburg is a single-lane structure that crosses over Tom’s Creek.

This covered bridge has an extremely unique architecture, with expertly designed beams that form an appealing design.

Did you know there are only 1,600 covered bridges left in the world?

No wonder bridge fanatics from all over come to see Jacks Mountain Bridge and others like it in this part of the Pennsylvania countryside.

It’s been on the National Register of Historic Places since 1980 and was built nearly a century before that, in 1890.

Although there are 17 total covered bridges in Adams County, this is the only one that still has daily car traffic.

This 75-foot-by-14-foot bridge is worth a stop for a photo for any tourists passing by or through Gettysburg!

Address: Jacks Mountain Rd, Fairfield, PA 17320, U.S.

Bridges in Philadelphia, Pennsylvania

1. Benjamin Franklin Bridge

This massive suspension bridge spans the Delaware River, connecting Philadelphia, Pennsylvania, and Camden, New Jersey.

It’s the longest single-span suspension bridge in the world, at 1.8 miles!

During the day, the bridge offers gorgeous views of Philly and the Delaware River.

The bridge becomes even more spectacular at night as every cable lights up, creating a beautifully lit outline.

Due to this bridge’s outstanding design, lights, archway, and location, it’s become an icon in the city.

Pedestrian walkways along both sides of the bridge are only closed if severe weather occurs.

At the bridge’s base on the Philly side, you can find two beautiful historic churches, St. Augustine and St. George.

Whether you’re simply traveling to or from Philadelphia or you’ve come just to lay eyes on this engineering wonder, you’re sure to be impressed!

Address: 1 Benjamin Franklin Bridge, Philadelphia, PA 08102, U.S.

2. New Hope-Lambertville Toll Supported Bridge

Are you heading to Philadelphia from New Jersey?

If so, you might just cross paths with the New Hope-Lambertville Bridge, which connects these two regions.

Constructed in 1904, this bridge is toll-free and replaces a historical ferry service that previously transported passengers to and from New Jersey.

Although it’s more than a century old, the bridge remains intact and in good shape.

Enjoy a walk from one side to the other and soak in the views of the Delaware River.

Roughly 37 miles outside Philadelphia and 16 miles outside Trenton, New Jersey, this bridge offers a quieter scene.

Two quaint towns offer shops and dining on either side, and tourists love the experience of going back and forth across state lines.

For a refreshing, unique, and scenic evening, come to the New Hope-Lambertville Bridge for a stroll.

Address: W. Bridge St, New Hope, PA 18938, U.S.

3. Walt Whitman Bridge

The highly innovative design of the Walt Whitman Bridge has been well-recognized since its creation in 1957.

At nearly 12,000 feet long, it’s one of the longest suspension bridges in the United States.

The towers on this bridge climb to 378 feet (115 meters) above the water’s surface.

Large ships are able to pass below the bridge due to its roomy clearance of 135 feet.

Walt Whitman, an American poet, was native to nearby Camden, New Jersey, and is commemorated by this bridge’s name.

The bridge connects Philadelphia to Gloucester City, New Jersey, by crossing over the Delaware River.

It’s an essential travel link in Philadelphia, with a whopping 120,000 cars passing over it every single day.

Locals and tourists alike must appreciate the scale and beauty of the Walt Whitman Bridge!

Address: 3100 S Front St, Philadelphia, PA 19148, U.S.

4. Betsy Ross Bridge

Suspension bridges are rarely as spectacular or significant as the Betsy Ross Bridge, which arches beautifully over the Delaware River.

Betsy Ross designed the American Flag, and in 1976 when this bridge was built, it was named in her honor, making it the first car bridge in American history to be named after a woman.

Impressed yet?

If not, take a moment to admire the bridge’s incredible architecture.

Towers on the bridge stretch a whopping 382 feet into the sky, and the whole bridge is 1,260 feet long, which is notable by engineering standards.

Tourists and locals frequent the bridge to enjoy pleasant views of the Philadelphia skyline.

It’s also an iconic symbol of Philly and is the subject of many works of art and the location of various community events.

Address: 3750 Richmond St, Philadelphia, PA 19137, U.S.

5. Commodore Barry Bridge

If you’re in southwestern Philadelphia looking to cross the Delaware River into New Jersey, your GPS may just direct you over the Commodore Barry Bridge if you’re willing to pay a few bucks worth of tolls.

Despite local complaints about bottleneck traffic and toll charges, the bridge remains a special part of Philadelphia history and is an engineering feat.

It is a cantilever bridge, which means it’s built of horizontal beams that are supported on only one side.

John Barry, whom this structure is named after, was an American Revolutionary War hero, “Father of the American Navy,” and a Philadelphia native.

At 13,912 feet or 4,240 meters, it is the fourth-longest cantilever bridge in the world and the longest in the entire United States!

The iconic structure is visually stunning, visible, and recognizable from miles away.

Address: 1 Bridge Plz N., Chester, PA 08014, U.S.

6. Falls Bridge

If you find yourself in Fairmount Park, be sure to stroll along this gorgeous steel bridge that crosses the Schuylkill River.

Constructed in 1895, it’s one of the oldest and most historic bridges in Philadelphia.

At the time of its construction, Philly was experiencing a period of tremendous growth and the way this bridge connected communities within the city was profound.

The steel arch design is unique, elegant, and highly functional.

Hikers, joggers, and cyclists love soaking in the lush green scenery and rocky cliff backdrop surrounding the bridge.

Its modest length of 556 feet (169 meters) puts it very low on the list of longest bridges in the city, but what it lacks in length, it makes up for in beauty and cultural significance.

Whether you’re crossing the Falls Bridge on foot, bike, or by car, you’re sure to enjoy the quaint views and pleasant travel experience!

Address: 2925 West Clearfield St., Philadelphia, PA 19132, U.S.

Bridges in Harrisburg, Pennsylvania

1. Cumberland Valley Railroad Bridge

Although the Cumberland Valley Bridge, also known as the CVRR bridge or Cumberland Valley Railroad Bridge, is permanently closed to any type of traffic, it’s still a sight to behold, spanning across the Susquehanna River.

As the name suggests, it was originally a railroad bridge.

It’s a noteworthy example of the engineering styles and accomplishments of the early 20th century.

As part of this bridge’s history, in 1952, the Pennsylvania Department of Transportation changed it into a highway bridge.

It connects Market Street in Harrisburg and Lemoyne in Cumberland County.

The bridge is impressive to view, with 43 beautifully designed archways.

Steel frames in triangular shapes support the foundation of the Cumberland Valley Bridge, making it a truss bridge.

Three owners share the planning rights of the bridge, so only time will tell if it’s reopened and what its future will hold.

Address: River Rd, Harrisburg, PA 17110, U.S.

2. Harvey Taylor Bridge

As one of two key city bridges that connect downtown Harrisburg with the western shore, Harvey Taylor Bridge is surely pulling its weight!

Besides four car lanes, the bridge boasts two pedestrian or cyclist lanes on either side.

It was first completed in 1952 and made wider in 2001 and 2004.

A Pennsylvania Senator who served between 1941 and 1964 and was also the Director of Public Safety inspired this incredible bridge’s current name.

Thirty thousand vehicles or more travel across this sturdy concrete bridge every day!

The best views of the Harvey Taylor Bridge are at sunrise or sundown when the bridge’s outline is clearly visible against the darkened sky.

Downriver, the Market Street and Walnut Street bridges also move traffic into downtown Harrisburg.

Address: 1100 Market St. Harrisburg, PA 17103

3. Walnut Street Bridge

There’s a good reason this bridge is known as “The People’s Bridge!”

After devastating floods in the late 19th century, Harrisburg residents pooled their money together in a donation that funded the bridge.

It’s gorgeous and is worth a stop by to check out its ornate iron decor, decorative lamp posts, and seating areas.

Outdoor concerts, festivals, and other events are hosted in the grassy surroundings of this charming bridge.

You can spot joggers, runners, or cyclists crossing the bridge from downtown Harrisburg to City Island.

Like several other bridges on this list, it was listed on the National Register of Historic Places (in 1982).

Repair work and LED lights were just a couple of renovations done to the bridge during a project in 2019.

Undeniably, it’s a key part of Harrisburg’s fascinating history and remains relevant to locals and tourists to this day.

Address: N Front St., Walnut St, Harrisburg, PA 17101, U.S.

4. Market Street Bridge

The Market Street Bridge is one of four main river crossings into Harrisburg, so it can’t be overlooked.

It’s the second-oldest remaining bridge in Harrisburg.

The Market Street Bridge and its beautiful aches cross over the East Channel of the Susquehanna River, and the bridge is currently open to pedestrian traffic.

Sixteen strong arches hold up the bridge, which is over 1,400 feet long and 40 feet wide.

Travelers going west out of downtown Harrisburg may opt to use this bridge or one of the neighboring bridges (Walnut and Harvey Taylor).

James McGraw Co. and Modjeski & Masters of Pennsylvania constructed the structure in 1928, and it’s had minor repairs since then.

Entering Harrisburg via the Market Street Bridge is a memorable moment for tourists making the monumental river-crossing.

Address: State Route 3012, Harrisburg, PA 17101, U.S.

5. Mulberry Street Bridge

Just east of downtown Harrisburg, this majestic open-spandrel concrete arch bridge crosses over a city street and creek.

It connects the Allison Hill Neighborhood to downtown Harrisburg.

The ramp portion of this bridge (seen on the lower left side of the picture above) was an innovative design at the time it was built in 1907.

Five arch spans support the ramp, while twenty arch spans support the larger bridge.

Interestingly, while the bridge itself is a historic structure, the surrounding area isn’t well-traveled by tourists and wouldn’t be considered a highlight of Harrisburg.

That’s because the Mulberry Street Bridge is in an industrial sector, with standard industrial buildings nearby.

Nevertheless, the bridge is still recognized as being the first major concrete highway in Harrisburg.

Address: 200 S Cameron St, Harrisburg, PA 17101, U.S.

Bridges in Scranton and Johnstown, Pennsylvania

1. Tunkhannock Creek Viaduct

Also known as the Nicholson Bridge, this hefty bridge was the largest concrete structure in the world when it was built.

Today, it’s still the largest concrete bridge in the United States.

The giant bridge was built by a regional railroad company and it is currently owned by the Norfolk Southern Railway.

Freight traveling from or through Scranton, PA, to New York frequently traverse the Tunkhannock Viaduct.

Highway 17 is the ideal viewing location if you’re interested in snapping a few pictures.

Due to its remarkable and lengthy history, railroad or engineering fans would love to visit and explore this bridge.

At the time it was built, it replaced another railway and saved freight trains an hour of transport time as they passed between Scranton and New York.

Address: PA-92, Nicholson, PA 18446, U.S.

2. Harrison Avenue Bridge

Three giant spans of the historic Harrison Avenue Bridge, also known as the Scranton Viaduct, crossed over the Roaring Brook in Scranton, PA, connecting different parts of Scranton.

It was first promoted by the South-to-East Scranton Bridge Association, which was a citizen’s group during the Progressive Era of social activism.

Abraham Burton Cohen, the same architect behind the Tunkhannock Creek Viaduct, designed this concrete bridge.

The concrete architectural style and bold engineering frame of work served as a prominent example of early 20th-century bridge engineering.

In 1988, it was added to the list of the National Register of Historic Places.

Due to the Harrison Bridge’s age, it was closed in 2014, a replacement bridge was built in 2017, and this bridge was demolished in 2018.

Address: PA 6011 (Harrison Avenue), Scranton, PA 18510, U.S.

3. Stone Bridge

The Stone Bridge in Johnstown is historically, architecturally, and culturally significant.

As such, it’s worth a visit for any tourists passing through or willing to drive the hour and a half from Pittsburgh to Johnstown.

Adult visitors can also stop in the nearby brewery, Stone Bridge Brewery, and enjoy a quiet afternoon exploring Johnstown.

The bridge miraculously survived the Johnstown Flood of 1889 after a nearby dam failed and even survived a subsequent fire caused by debris from the massive flood.

A restoration project in 2008 fixed decay on the south side and added LED lights in honor of the ever-glowing human spirit in the city of Johnstown.

Considering the Stone Bridge’s impressive engineering and impactful history, it’s no wonder that Johnstown postcards, literature, and art are full of depictions of this bridge.

Address: 26 Walnut St, Johnstown, PA 15901, U.S.

Bridges in Lackawaxen and Lancaster, PA

1. Roebling Aquaduct Suspension Bridge in Lackawaxen

This restored aqueduct bridge is a beautiful sight in any season and looks magnificent as it crosses over the Hudson River.

It was originally completed in 1849 as an aqueduct that connected a local canal, but it’s since been converted to allow for car and foot traffic.

Anyone passing by can stop and enjoy the pretty river views and read the informational signs on either side of the bridge for a bit of a history lesson.

Part of its proud history was when the American Society of Civil Engineers made it a National Historic Civil Engineering Landmark in 1972.

Today, the bridge belongs to the National Park Service’s Upper Delaware unit.

Amazingly, this aqueduct is also one of the oldest surviving ones of its kind with suspension cables, which is quite an engineering feat.

Address: Roebling Bridge, 182 Scenic Dr, Lackawaxen, PA 18435, U.S.

2. Erb’s Mill Covered Bridge in Lancaster

Erb’s Mill Bridge is known as a local historical landmark and is located just 14 miles north of Lancaster in the Warwick Township of Lancaster County,

This covered bridge’s history began in 1849 when it was built near a mill owned by an established family of Swiss immigrants.

Erb’s Mill Bridge was named after a nearby gristmill that was owned by the Erb family.

In 1887, the bridge was rebuilt at a total cost of $1,744.

Another major renovation happened in 2010, where workers repainted the bridge, replaced the roof, and repaired the abutments.

Tourists and local visitors love how this bridge is easily accessible and enjoyable to walk through.

Informational plaques near the bridge offer detailed insights into its lengthy history.

Lancaster County bridges are all painted red, and Erb’s Mill is no exception.

Address: 800-898 Erbs Bridge Rd, Lititz, PA 17543, U.S.

3. Hunsecker’s Mill Covered Bridge

Ready to take an Amish-style horse and buggy ride through a traditional yet operating covered bridge in the quaint Pennsylvanian countryside?

That’s exactly what tourists love to do in this historical location.

The Hunsecker’s Mill Covered Bridge is another special example of the covered bridges that you can find throughout Lancaster County.

It was built in 1848, then had to be rebuilt in 1973 after floating downriver due to severe flooding in 1972.

Burr Arch trusses make up the bridge, which is typical for covered bridges.

At 180 feet, it’s the longest single-span bridge in Lancaster Country and one of the largest covered bridges in the county.

It crosses the Conestoga River in Manheim and Upper Leacock Townships.

Its unique horizontal floorboards create strong vibrations while crossing, so cyclists, beware!

Address: 1335 Hunsicker Rd, Lancaster, PA 17601, U.S.

4. Zook’s Mill Covered Bridge

As far as covered bridges go, this one’s in excellent condition, especially considering it was built in 1849!

This picturesque bridge was named after the nearby mill owned by the Zook family.

In 1972, Hurricane Agnes damaged much of the surrounding countryside, but this little bridge mainly went unharmed.

Boys from Brazil, filmed in 1978, used this bridge for a movie scene.

Like many covered bridges, it uses Burr arch trusses in its design, and it has sturdy oak planks that groan as cars pass by.

It’s owned and maintained by Lancaster County and is also known as Wenger Covered Bridge or Rose Hill Covered Bridge.

Whether you simply drive through it or stop to look around and take pictures, you’re sure to remember this charming covered bridge.

Address: 1049 Log Cabin Rd, Leola, PA 17540, U.S.