Hit the road and head for the hills of Central Pennsylvania! With so much history, great sights, weird and unusual attractions, shopping destinations, and places to grab a delicious bite to eat, Bedford County and the surrounding areas should be high on your list of day trip destinations.
Check out some of our favorites in Breezewood, Bedford, Everett, and the vicinity – many of which appear along historic Lincoln Highway (US Route 30), the nation’s first improved road, which runs all the way from Times Square to San Francisco!
Abandoned Turnpike Tunnels – Just a few minutes off the Pennsylvania Turnpike, you will find the abandoned remnants and tunnels of the old Pennsylvania Turnpike that was left to decay after the Turnpike was re-routed in 1968. Explore this slightly creep (but mostly family-friendly) area on foot or by bike for a fascinating trip back through time.
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Crawford’s Gift Shop – Pittsburgh fans will not want to miss the amazing selection of Pittsburgh Steelers, Penguins, and Pirates apparel, merchandise, and gifts at this wonderful shop conveniently located just off the PA Turnpike at Breezewood.
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Fort Bedford Museum – History buffs will appreciate the special programs and events for all ages, as well as seeing thousands of relics from the past in the Gallery. View cannons, swords, and long rifles dating back to the French and Indian War and intriguing artifacts from the original settlement of the area.
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The National Museum of the American Coverlet – Explore a rare and awe-inspiring glimpse in time when you view the beautiful antique geometric, figured and fancy woven bed coverlets on display – with some dating back to 1771! These painstakingly loomed handmade textiles are a testament to the innovative sprit and artistic inclination of yesteryear.
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Old Bedford Village – Take an immersive trip back to the late 19th century at this living history destination. Observe Civil War re-enactments, interpretive living history demonstrations, interactive tours, and live craftsman demonstrating skills such as blacksmithing, quilting, candle making, coopering, basket making, weaving and spinning. Many of the handmade items (and a nice selection of sweets) are available for purchase in the Village Craft Shop, as well – or take a class and learn how to make your own goods!
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Everett Railroad (with train stations at Everett and Hollidaysburg, PA) – Take a ride on a classic train led by an antique steam-powered engine! A favorite of children and guests of all ages, you can enjoy seasonal themed rides, family and World War II specials, the beloved Cookie Train, and ice cream specials, as well. This is a treat you definitely do not want to miss!
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Koontz Coffee Pot – Show the world how much you love java and take a selfie with this humungous tank of coffee along the famous Lincoln Highway at 109 Telegraph Road, Bedford, PA.
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Coral Caverns – See fossilized coral reefs and creatures from the deep from the extinct inland sea that vanished over 400 million years ago, as well as other natural features, at this unique cave in Manns Choice, PA. It is the only known cave of this type in existence!
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Bedford Town Trek – Intriguing and informative guided history and architectural tour.
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Gravity Hill – Have you ever seen a car roll uphill? Visit this mysterious destination in Bedford, PA, and be amazed!
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Blue Knob State Park – Open year-round, this 6,000+ acre park offers visitors a convenient place to experience the solitude of nature and wildlife.
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Briar Valley Vineyard & Winery – Enjoy classic European-style wines such as Chardonnay, Riesling, Gewürztraminer, Cabernet Franc, and Lemberger at this boutique winery located on the desirable southeastern slope of the Allegheny Mountains. A tasting room is open for your romantic evening or as a place to while away the evening with the joy of wine, friends, and family.
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Green Ridge Horse Ranch – Experience the revitalizing freshness of the countryside as you ride the wonderful horses at this central Pennsylvania ranch perched high up in the beautiful mountaintops of Bedford County.
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Shawnee State Park – Get away from the hustle and bustle and escape to nearly 4,000 acres of natural wild beauty situated in the heart of the Ridge and Valley Province, just off the historic Lincoln Highway.
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The Bison Corral – Experience everything about bison from their behavior and history to their taste! The bison roam free at this wild farm. Two guest houses and a gift shop are located on the property, as well.
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Bedford Fine Art Gallery – View and obtain works from fine artists from the area and abroad (enjoy pieces from the 19th Century to modern works).
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Omni Bedford Springs Spa & Resort – A luxury hotel with fine dining, mineral springs, and numerous amenities for your comfort.
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Flight 93 Memorial – Plant a memorial tree, honor our nation’s heroes at the Chapel, explore the Tower of Voices, and more.
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Old Log Church at Schellsburg – One of the oldest standing structures in the area, this log church was built in 1806 for Reformed and Lutherans congregants, as well as traveling preachers of all faiths.
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Bad Boyz Bistro – A unique themed restaurant with delicious food and a fun atmosphere celebrating all our favorites bad boys from movies, sports, and politics.
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Bedford Tavern & Seafood House – There is something on this menu for everyone, including an exciting sports bar downstairs and quiet dining upstairs.
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Horn O Plenty Restaurant – Farm-to-table done right. Locally sourced and organically-grown dairy, meat, and produce are artfully combined for delicious meals cooked in the centerpiece wood-fired oven. BYOB for dine-in or call ahead for takeout.
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Jean Bonnet Tavern – Enjoy the charm of a classic tavern with carefully prepared meals and drinks served with hospitality in this landmark stone building from the 1760s. Outdoor dining and on-site overnight accommodations available.
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Golden Eagle Inn – Stay right in the heart of historic Downtown Bedford in beautifully restored rooms with on-site dining and easy access to all the area attractions.
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The Chancelor’s House Bed and Breakfast – Enjoy painstakingly restored traditional architecture and spacious accommodations with modern conveniences including Wi-Fi and dinner concierge service.
The Bloody Run Canoe & Kayak Classic – Grab the family or a friend and your canoes, kayaks, and paddle boards for this five-mile float on the Raystown Branch of the Juniata. Meet up at The Union Hotel (128 Main Street, Everett, PA) to register for the race at 9am. Admission is free and food and vendors will be on site for this great local festival, hosted by the Raystown Canoe Club. The 2019 race will be held on Saturday, April 27 at 11:30am.
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Bedford Fall Foliage Festival – Central Pennsylvania’s largest and most beloved craft and food festival offers live music, entertainment, and excellent artwork. Experience unique savory and sweet fall food favorites, cultural items, and fine wares from over 400 high-quality vendors. The 2019 Festival will be held Saturday and Sunday, October 5th & 6th and 12th & 13th from 9:00am to 5:00pm.
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Bedford County Fair – Fun, food, and excitement await the entire family at one of the nation’s most beloved traditional county fairs: the Bedford County Fair! Don’t miss the cattle, livestock, equine, home products and agricultural exhibits, stock car races, rides, awesome fair foods, harness racing, dog shows, rodeo shows, games, magic acts, and other special events at the 2019 Bedford County Fair located at the Bedford County Fairgrounds (just west of Downtown Bedford on Business Route 30/West Pitt Street) the week of July 21st, 2019.
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Events at Old Bedford Village – Explore flint and percussion rifles, a Civil War Reenactment, Wild West Weekend, History Weekend, Murder Mystery Evenings, Pumpkinfest, Candlelit Christmas, and more at this historic landmark!
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Covered Bridges of Bedford County – Take a trip off the beaten path and explore the unique and picturesque wooden bridges of Bedford County, many built over a century ago.
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Critter Tour – Kids and adults alike will enjoy seeing the bison, trout, and wildlife of Bedford County. Pack a lunch, print this guide, and have a wonderful day with the family!
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Lincoln Highway Driving Tour – Explore historic Lincoln Highway by car! See all the local sites and experiences you can enjoy along this local stretch of the oldest NY to CA highway! Click the link for a printable driving guide.
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Architecture of Bedford – This self-guided walking tour with accompanying videos highlights many of the awe-inspiring historic features the Bedford area.
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Shopping in Downtown Bedford – Candies, wine, quilts, banjos, antiques, wearable art, and more await you!
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Tea Time – Take a break and visit Everything Tea for the finest and freshest teas from around the world.
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Tee Time – Golfing aficionados will appreciate the Bedford area’s unique course offerings celebrating this area’s stunning mountain views and luxurious accommodations, including meals served in picturesque Appalachian alpine surroundings.
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Mid State Trail – Travel over 520 miles of trail as you explore the sharp mountain ridge lines to the highest knob. Take in sublime views throughout Pennsylvania’s wilderness areas on one of our most beloved and exciting trails.
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Wine Tasting – Experience a wide variety of exceptional, handcrafted wines at Briar Valley Vineyard & Winery, a unique boutique destination.
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Racing at Bedford Speedway – Watch some of the area’s most skilled drivers navigate this classic dirt track in late model and sprint cars every Friday night!