The Old Drake Hill Flower Bridge

Photo of Old Drake Hill Flower Bridge

Important Notice:  The Town of Simsbury will be undertaking a large scale renovation of the Old Drake Hill Flower Bridge that will begin on October 16, 2023 and likely go through the end of the summer in  2024.  We will not be accepting any reservations for public gatherings (weddings/anniversaries/photos) for this October/November and all of 2024 until we know the Bridge work is completed.  There will be no flowers on the Bridge in 2024 and the park adjacent to the Bridge will not be open to the public until the construction is completed.

The Old Drake Hill Flower Bridge in Simsbury, Connecticut is an example of 19th century metal-truss bridge construction. Originally designed and built in 1892, it spans 183 feet and carries a 12-foot roadway suspended 18 feet over the beautiful Farmington River. It was originally designed as a one lane, one way bridge used for vehicular traffic. It was replaced by a modern 2-lane bridge a few hundred feet to the North in 1992. In 1995, it was restored as a unique bridge. The restoration was possible through 80% of Federal funds at a full cost of $400,000 dollars.

In 1996, inspired by the Bridge of Flowers in Shelburne Falls, MA, groups began to develop community gardens on & around the historic Old Drake Hill Bridge. The 72 flower boxes on the bridge are replaced by Simsbury High School students.

The bridge was retained as a pedestrian & bicycle way and placed on the National Register of Historic Places in 1984. The cost of restoration was approximately $575,000, 80% paid by a Federal Transportation Grant. The Bridge is used by hikers, bicyclists and pedestrians. Since it has opened, photographers, artists and area school groups flock to the bridge to make permanent record of its beauty.

The picturesque 72 flower boxes, 32 hanging baskets, 14 border Column Baskets and Cottage Gardens are planted and maintained by a dedicated group of volunteers.

The Old Drake Hill Flower Bridge is a Not-for Profit, Tax Exempt Organization, Section 501(c)(3) IRS Code.

The Bridge makes a beautiful backdrop for special occasion photos-weddings, proms or parties. There is no charge for a photo session, but we ask that people make a tax exempt donation to the Old Drake Hill Flower Bridge fund. There is a donation box at the Bridge; cash or check may be placed in the box. Every donation is greatly appreciated.

To reserve The Bridge for a wedding or another special event, please contact the Simsbury Culture, Parks and Recreation department at (860) 658-3836.

Subscriptions for flower boxes or hanging baskets are currently unavailable. If desired, please complete and submit the Subscription Form to be placed on the waiting list. PLEASE DO NOT SEND a check. You will be contacted when a box or basket becomes available. Click here for Subscription Form. PLEASE NOTE: There is a current wait list for subscriptions.

Directions to the Old Drake Hill Flower Bridge

The Bridge is located at 1 Old Bridge Road, Simsbury, CT 06070

From Route 10/202 North, take a right at the White Congregational Church onto Drake Hill Road and another right onto Old Bridge Road. The Bridge is at the end.

Important Notice:   Parking at the Bridge is limited. Additional parking is available at Iron Horse Boulevard.

Expansion is possible only with your support. Checks may be made payable to:
Old Drake Hill Flower Bridge
P.O. Box 314
West Simsbury, Ct. 06092

or call
Simsbury Culture, Parks and Recreation
(860) 658-3836