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Frederick, Maryland: Trompe l'oeil Bridge Mural

The walls and bridgework along Carroll Creek are painted to create the illusion of an ivy-covered stone bridge, with fake niches, fountains and statues, and 3,000 unique painted stones.

Address:
Carroll St., Frederick, MD
Directions:
From I-70 to exit 54. Continue on S. East St. to E Patrick St. Carroll Street Bridge over Carroll Creek between E. Patrick and E. All Saints Sts. at creek level.
Hours:
Always open Local health policies may affect hours and access.
Admission:
Free
RA Rates:
Worth a Detour
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Visitor Tips and News About Trompe l'oeil Bridge Mural

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Fake bird bath.

Trompe l'oeil Bridge Mural

Lots of hidden symbols within the extensive mural (A key is located on an info plaque.). Nice short walk along the canal as well.

[KB, 01/15/2023]

Trompe l'oeil Bridge Mural.

Trompe l'oeil Bridge Mural

In the summer the little river area has beautiful lily pads blooming. The murals are up and down the bridge at a river walk area that is just nice to visit. There are some great antique stores, art gallery and a distillery/ I was surprised by what a nice area it was in! It is meant to be viewed from the bridge, but there are little treasures under the bridge too!

[Jenn, 08/18/2021]
Trompe l'oeil Bridge Mural

This site was absolutely worth the trip to see. Bridge was amazing and walking up the canal with all of the local downtown restaurants and shops was delightful.

[Nona Fisher, 05/09/2021]

Bridge murals.

Community Mural Bridge

A large-scale, award-winning trompe l'oeil mural transforms a plain concrete bridge into an old, ivy-covered stone bridge.

This is one of my favorite places to show visitors and locals. It just blows my mind every time. Looking across the canal, you would think that it was stone, ivy, moss and structures. It's not, it's all trompe l'oeil!

[Kariann Zentz, 07/11/2014]

In 1993, Artist William Cochran persuaded the town that this was a good idea, solicited thousands of community suggestions, and created (with assistants) the mural -- 3,000 square feet, with over 3,000 simulated stones -- by 1998.


Nearby Offbeat Places

Fountain Memorial to a Fountain MemorialFountain Memorial to a Fountain Memorial, Frederick, MD - < 1 mi.
Charity the DogCharity the Dog, Frederick, MD - < 1 mi.
Statue of John Hanson, First U.S. PresidentStatue of John Hanson, First U.S. President, Frederick, MD - < 1 mi.
In the region:
Roland A. Remnant, Westminster, MD - 25 mi.

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