Live, Grow, Invest – where the crossroads of heritage and hospitality meet in Bedford County, Pennsylvania
Bedford County, with its historic, beautiful countryside has the best of all worlds. Just 2 hours from the Baltimore-Washington or Pittsburgh suburbs, it is a step back in time where family values grow from its rural heritage.
Bedford County has a myriad of outdoor activities — from canoeing down the Juniata River, to waterskiing in 27-mile Lake Raystown, to hiking through State Forests and Game lands, to snow skiing at Pennsylvania’s highest ski-resort, Blue Knob. If you like the outdoors, you’ll find lots to do in Bedford County.
Through the years Bedford County has made history. George Washington commanded the troops in Bedford during the Whiskey Rebellion — the only time a President has commanded troops in the field. Several structures — including the Espy House in the downtown Bedford’s 22-block National Historic Register District — boast signs indicating that “Washington slept here.”
The Bedford Springs Hotel, a National Historic Landmark awaiting a long anticipated restoration, was one of the country’s first mineral springs hotels, opening in 1804. A favorite summer retreat for Eastern industrialists and refugees from Washington, D.C.’s sweltering summers, Bedford Springs played host to congressmen, senators and other leaders from the Capital. The Supreme Court held session at the Bedford Springs — the only time it has met outside of Washington. And the historic hotel was a favorite spot for President James Buchanan, who received the first trans-Atlantic cable — from Great Britain’s Queen Victoria — while vacationing at the Springs.
Old Bedford Village is home to more than 40 original structures from America’s past, including log buildings and an eight-sided Quaker schoolhouse. Costumed guides and working crafts people lead visitors through tours of the Village.
And with fourteen 19th century covered bridges, the county remains one of the best places to enjoy these “kissin’ bridges” — many have been carefully restored and are open to traffic. For a list of historical-related sites in Bedford County, visit National Register of Historical Places in Bedford County.
Throughout Bedford County, many residents continue to work close to the soil – selling produce, meat and other products, keeping alive a centuries-old tradition.
Bedford County may be a rural county but there is always plenty to do. Enjoy the endless entertainment like visiting a winery or brewery, enjoying a festival, visiting agrotourism attractions and more...
Bedford County is home to Omni Bedford Springs Resort & Spa. Originally built in 1806, this 200-year old five-star resort has plenty to offer. From the world-class Springs Eternal Spa to the magnificently restored golf course and relaxing indoor and outdoor pools, the resort provides a luxurious experience.
