History and hidden gems abound throughout the Hoosier State. If you’re struggling with where to find them, one of the nation’s longest covered bridges is in Indiana. Located near Medora, this incredible site is worth a trip from any corner of the state. This list includes fun facts and smart reasons to plan a trip to this see the Medora Covered Bridge, the longest covered bridge in Indiana. Check it out:

1. The Medora Covered Bridge was built in 1875 by J.J. Daniels. It took nine months to build and cost $18,000.00.
Wikimedia Commons/ValerieWood
Prior to the bridge, people had to use a ferry to cross this part of the river.
2. The state's longest covered bridge is named for the tiny town it is located near, and it crosses the east fork of the White River.
Wikimedia Commons/ValerieWood
3. Not only is it the longest bridge in Indiana, spanning about 434 feet, it's one of the longest historic bridges in the United States.
Google/Cathy Adler
4. It was added to the National Register of Historic Places on September 19, 2007.
Wikimedia Commons/Chris Light
This designation helped preserve it and save it from demolition.

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5. When the bridge was restored in 2009, more than 80 percent of its original materials were saved, including the original truss.
Wikimedia Commons/ValerieWood
This means that when you come to visit, you'll be looking at some actual ancient history.
6. As of 1972, the state's longest covered bridge is for pedestrian traffic only as that's when it was closed to vehicles.
Wikimedia Commons/ValerieWood
That's great news for you because you'll want to walk up and down the long length of this whole bridge.
7. It is known locally as "Dark Covered Bridge" because it always looks dark inside due to the lack of sunlight that makes its way inside.
Flickr/IIP Photo Archive
8. The Medora Covered Bridge is one of nine different bridges that is showcased in southern Indiana as part of the Covered Bridge Loop.
Wikimedia Commons/ValerieWood
While you're in the area, why not check out the rest?
9. Free parking and picnic areas are available for those who wish to stay awhile and enjoy the views and fresh air around this magnificent historic covered bridge.
Wikimedia Commons/ValerieWood
Bring a lunch, a deck of cards, or a camera to enjoy the day.

Have you ever experienced the Medora Covered Bridge, the longest covered bridge in Indiana? If so, what did you think? Be sure to share your experiences with us in the comments below — we’d love to hear from you!

For more like this, check out eight hikes that lead to fairytale footbridges you’ll never believe. Even more fun can be found in Indiana if you take a little cruise through Airbnb Experiences, where you can find things to do alone or with your crew that you’ll be talking about for years to come.

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Medora Covered Bridge in Indiana

Beth C. | December 06, 2021

Are there any other covered bridges in Indiana?

The covered bridges in Indiana remind us of a simpler time, and visiting them is an experience that belongs on every explorer's bucket list. Some other bridges to see include the:

  • Smith Covered Bridge
  • New Brownsville Covered Bridge
  • Rush Creek Bridge
  • Bridgeton Bridge
  • Shieldstown Covered Bridge
  • Cox Ford Covered Bridge
  • Bean Blossom Covered Bridge

In fact, we love exploring covered bridges so much that we've even put together a covered bridges road trip through Indiana.

What are some hidden gems in Indiana?

Some hidden gems in Indiana include:

  • Ardmore Quarry in Fort Wayne
  • Roofless Church in New Harmony
  • Cowles Bog in Chesterton
  • Garfield Park Conservatory and Sunken Gardens
  • Amish Acres
  • Backyard Roller Coasters
  • Friendship Botanic Gardens in Michigan City

 

Where can I go in Indiana that only the locals know about?

Are you ready to explore Indiana as a local would? Well, good news! We've pinpointed some amazing places in Indiana that only the locals know about, and you won't be disappointed. Some of these places include:

  • Rose Island in Charlestown
  • Coffee Creek Watershed Conservancy Preserve in Chesterton
  • Fifi's Lunch Box in Terre Haute
  • Clayshire Castle in Bowling Green
  • Hardin Ridge Recreation Area in Bloomington
  • Shawn's Southern BBQ in New Albany
  • the Gardens at T.C. Steele State Historic Site in Nashville
  • Mounds State Park in Anderson

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