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Covered Bridge Park: The Last Covered Bridge in Wisconsin

At one time there were more than 40 covered bridges throughout the state of Wisconsin. Today only one remains at Covered Bridge Park.

Covered Bridge Park in Ozaukee County

One of the best parts about living in Wisconsin is enjoying the gorgeous scenery. At times we may take it for granted, but one trip down a scenic route and we’re once again reminded of its natural beauty. Plus, it may look different with each passing season – but no less beautiful.

Covered Bridge Park: The Last Covered Bridge in Wisconsin

Recently we took the kids for a drive to visit Covered Bridge Park in Cedarburg, Wisconsin. It’s a fairly small park, but is pleasant for a picnic and a walk. My husband and I visited once before, but we hadn’t taken the kids yet.

Of course, when we told the kids we’re going to a park, they automatically thought of swings, slides, and other playground equipment.

My family walking across a pedestrian bridge at a park.

There aren’t any play structures at Covered Bridge Park, but there are picnic tables, grills, and benches for sitting. It’s ideal for taking in nature’s beauty as well as for photo shoots.

The lattice woodwork inside the covered bridge.

We crossed the little walking bridge and around to the back of the covered bridge. Another family gathered inside to take a family picture on the bridge.

Someone wrote AHS Girls of '54 inside the bridge

We strolled through memory lane as we looked at the bridge’s structure and read the various initials and messages on the wall left by high school sweethearts.

More initials carved into the wood on the bridge

I asked my husband if his mom and dad ever left their initials on the bridge when they were dating, as it seemed to be extremely popular among local teens. He wasn’t sure, but we looked anyway.

Many people left messages or marks on the wall of the covered bridge.

“Jan came here for the past 5yrs on her birthday. Today she is 55yrs old. Still feeling strong like this bridge!”

At the other end, my daughter asked what the signs said.

Last Covered Bridge Plaque

We read the plaques aloud and discussed that this covered bridge was used to cross the water for 85 years. We talked about horses and wagons using it as well as cars driving through it, but now it is preserved as a historical landmark.

Wisconsin Historical Marker for Covered Bridge Park

The next time you drive through Ozaukee County, plan to make a stop at Covered Bridge Park on Cedar Creek Road in Cedarburg. Have a bite to eat, stretch your legs, and don’t forget your camera!

Looking for more interesting places to visit throughout the Midwest? Several family travel bloggers are sharing neat places to visit during the 30 Places 30 Days Local Travel Challenge. Share your favorite local travel spots on Twitter and Instagram using #30Places30Days.

Looking for scenic places to visit in Wisconsin? Visit Covered Bridge Park and take your family to see the last covered bridge in Wisconsin! It's a nice place to stop for lunch, stretch your legs, and take pictures while taking a road trip through southeast Wisconsin.

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Melissa

Wednesday 16th of March 2022

I love right next to Amnicon Falls State Park, in norther WI, and they have a covered bridge too. I’m curious what makes a bridge “the last one”. (Not meant snarky, totally curious!)

Darcy Zalewski

Wednesday 13th of April 2022

I think that's an excellent question, especially since I know there are a few covered bridges still standing in Wisconsin. I can't remember now if it was the last one built... I'll have to check.

April

Wednesday 17th of May 2017

Oh, I love it! So picturesque! I'm a huge sucker for these sorts of parks. Long live the covered bridge.

Darcy Zalewski

Sunday 21st of May 2017

Thanks, April! The wind was a bit cold when we went, but it's a lovely way to spend a warm sunny day.

Leanna

Monday 15th of May 2017

This looks like the perfect way to spend a Sunday. Covered bridges are so quaint, I am glad that they preserved this one. The only ones I have ever been to are in Oregon and they are gorgeous, so I am assuming this one is beautiful as well.

Thanks for sharing,

Darcy Zalewski

Sunday 21st of May 2017

Thanks, Leanna! There is something wonderful about visiting covered bridges and they truly make for gorgeous photo opportunities.