Bedford Pennsylvania ATTRACTIONS & THINGS TO DO
Listed below are the best attractions and things to do near Bedford, Pennsylvania.
1. Old Bedford Village
HISTORIC COLONIAL SETTLEMENT
Old Bedford Village is a living history museum that recreates early American life through authentic buildings and costumed interpreters. Visitors can explore over 40 historic structures moved from around Bedford County to create this immersive colonial experience. The village hosts special events throughout the year including craft demonstrations, holiday celebrations, and historical reenactments.
2. The Historic Lincoln Highway
AMERICA'S FIRST COAST-TO-COAST ROAD
The Historic Lincoln Highway, America's first transcontinental highway, passes directly through Bedford offering a glimpse into early automotive tourism. Travelers can experience numerous historic roadside attractions, vintage gas stations, and classic diners along this iconic route. The highway represents an important piece of American transportation history and continues to draw road trip enthusiasts and history buffs alike.
3. National Museum of the American Coverlet
HISTORIC TEXTILE COLLECTION
The National Museum of the American Coverlet showcases an impressive collection of antique bed coverings woven in the United States between 1771 and 1889. Housed in a historic 1859 schoolhouse, this specialty museum is dedicated to the preservation and exhibition of American woven coverlets. Visitors can appreciate the artistic and historical significance of these textiles through rotating exhibits and educational programs.
4. Bedford County Covered Bridge Driving Tour
HISTORIC WOODEN BRIDGES
The Bedford County Covered Bridge Driving Tour takes visitors through the picturesque countryside to view 14 historic covered bridges. These wooden structures, dating from the 19th century, showcase traditional timber construction techniques and architectural styles. Each bridge has its own unique history and charm, making this self-guided tour a favorite among photographers and history enthusiasts.
5. The Coffee Pot
QUIRKY ROADSIDE ATTRACTION
The Coffee Pot is an iconic roadside attraction shaped like a giant coffee pot that once served as a diner along the Lincoln Highway. Built in 1927, this whimsical structure exemplifies the novelty architecture that emerged during America's early automobile tourism era. Though no longer operating as a restaurant, the restored Coffee Pot remains a beloved landmark and popular photo opportunity for visitors.
6. Olde Bedford Brewing
LOCAL CRAFT BEER
Olde Bedford Brewing offers visitors a taste of locally crafted beers in a welcoming taproom environment. The brewery prides itself on using high-quality ingredients to create a diverse selection of traditional and innovative beer styles. Visitors can enjoy flights, pints, and growler fills while learning about the brewing process from knowledgeable staff.
7. Fort Bedford Museum
COLONIAL MILITARY HISTORY
Fort Bedford Museum preserves the history of the original 1758 British fort built during the French and Indian War. The museum houses a collection of artifacts, weapons, and documents that tell the story of colonial frontier life and military operations. Visitors can view a scale model of the original fort and learn about Bedford's strategic importance in early American history.
8. Coral Caverns
ANCIENT UNDERWATER REEF
Coral Caverns houses the remains of a 420 million-year-old coral reef that formed off the coast of modern-day Virginia and migrated to Bedford County through plate tectonics. The visitor center displays an assortment of fossils, dioramas, and caving-related artifacts that help explain this geological wonder. Formerly known as Wonderland Caverns, this natural attraction has been drawing tourists to Bedford County for nearly 100 years.
9. Pavia Overlook
SPECTACULAR MOUNTAIN VISTA
Pavia Overlook at Blue Knob State Park sits atop the second-highest mountain in Pennsylvania, offering breathtaking panoramic views. The overlook is located at the highest summit in Bedford County, making it a premier destination for nature photographers and outdoor enthusiasts. Visitors can enjoy hiking trails, picnic areas, and spectacular seasonal foliage displays from this elevated vantage point.
10. Omni Bedford Springs Resort & Spa
HISTORIC LUXURY GETAWAY
Omni Bedford Springs Resort & Spa is a historic luxury destination that has welcomed guests since 1806, including numerous U.S. presidents. The resort offers a range of activities including haunted history tours, morning yoga, archery, and fly fishing on its 2,200-acre property. Visitors can also enjoy the resort's renowned mineral springs, which once drew health-seekers from across the country to experience their purported healing properties.
11. Jean Bonnet Tavern
HISTORIC COLONIAL DINING
Jean Bonnet Tavern is a historic restaurant housed in a stone building dating back to the 1760s, serving as an important stop for travelers throughout American history. The tavern offers American cuisine, seafood, and pub fare in an authentic colonial atmosphere complete with original architectural features. Visitors can dine in the same space where colonial militiamen gathered before the Whiskey Rebellion and where modern ghost hunters claim to encounter paranormal activity.
12. Crystal Room
ELEGANT FINE DINING
The Crystal Room offers an upscale dining experience featuring contemporary American cuisine and steakhouse specialties. Located within the historic Omni Bedford Springs Resort, this elegant restaurant showcases seasonal ingredients and refined culinary techniques. The restaurant's sophisticated atmosphere and attentive service make it a premier destination for special occasions and romantic dinners.
13. Hoke-E-Geez Antique Store
ECLECTIC VINTAGE TREASURES
Hoke-E-Geez Antique Store offers treasure hunters an extensive collection of vintage items, collectibles, and unique memorabilia. The store features multiple vendor spaces filled with furniture, glassware, toys, tools, and other nostalgic pieces from various eras. Visitors enjoy the thrill of discovery as they browse through the eclectic merchandise that changes regularly as new items arrive.
14. LIFeSTYLE Italian Food and Style
MODERN ITALIAN CUISINE
LIFeSTYLE Italian Food and Style brings contemporary Italian dining to Bedford with a menu featuring fresh ingredients and creative preparations. The restaurant offers vegetarian-friendly options alongside traditional pasta dishes, wood-fired pizzas, and Italian specialties. Its stylish atmosphere and attentive service have made it a popular choice for both locals and visitors seeking quality dining in Bedford.
15. Bedford Speedway
HISTORIC DIRT TRACK RACING
Bedford Speedway is one of America's oldest continuously operating dirt tracks, hosting high-octane racing events since 1936. The half-mile clay oval track features sprint cars, late models, and other racing divisions throughout its April to September season. Fans enjoy the family-friendly atmosphere, affordable admission, and the thrill of watching skilled drivers compete on this historic racing venue.