BEDFORD, Pa. — A visitor center should do more than provide directions. It should tell the story of a place.
That belief inspired the recent transformation of the Discover Bedford County Welcome Center, which now reflects the organization's refreshed brand while serving as a showcase for the remarkable talent, craftsmanship, and entrepreneurial spirit found throughout Bedford County.
The newly redesigned space invites visitors to experience Bedford County before they ever leave the building. Through locally crafted artwork, custom furnishings, signature scents, and thoughtfully curated retail offerings, the Welcome Center has become a celebration of the people, places, and stories that make Bedford County unique.
"We wanted the Welcome Center to feel less like a place where visitors pick up brochures and more like a place where they discover Bedford County," said Brooke Kelly, Executive Director of Discover Bedford County. "Every detail in this space tells a story about the creativity, heritage, and talent that exists right here in our community."
Among the most exciting additions is a carefully curated collection of locally made products available for purchase. Featured makers include Mari-Pat Beene of Pigeon Hill Studios, Tera Herman of Mahendi Projects, Gracie Lou, Smoward Studio, William Snyder III, From Blossoms, and Debbie Wambaugh of Meepah Ventures LLC.
A centerpiece of the collection is a handwoven alpaca yarn rug crafted by Wambaugh using fiber from alpacas raised on her Bedford County farm. The rug reflects the agricultural roots, craftsmanship, and entrepreneurial spirit that continue to define the region. Together, the collection offers visitors an opportunity to take home an authentic piece of Bedford County while directly supporting local artists and small businesses.
The Welcome Center is also one of only two locations where visitors can purchase Unexpected Bedford County, a signature fragrance created by Mahendi Projects exclusively for Discover Bedford County. Inspired by the character, landscape, and charm of the destination, the custom scent was designed to evoke the feeling of discovering something unexpected around every corner. Unexpected Bedford County is available exclusively through Mahendi Projects and the Discover Bedford County Welcome Center.
Looking ahead, Discover Bedford County will continue expanding its collection of locally inspired merchandise. Beginning in late June, the Welcome Center will exclusively offer a line of custom-designed t-shirts featuring original artwork created by local artist William Snyder III. The limited-edition collection will provide visitors with another unique way to celebrate and remember their Bedford County experience.
The redesign itself became a showcase of local collaboration.
Interior design guidance was provided by local designer Sarah Ferrari, helping create a space that feels both welcoming and reflective of the new Discover Bedford County brand. Local artist Morgan Young brought the brand to life through a hand-painted interpretation of Discover Bedford County's signature swoosh design, creating a bold visual focal point within the space.
One of the most meaningful additions is a custom American Chestnut display table handcrafted by local artisan woodworker Adam Osman. The table was built using reclaimed wood dating from the late 1800s and early 1900s, sourced from a historic barn that once stood on Monsour Farms. The piece serves as both functional furniture and a tribute to Bedford County's agricultural heritage.
Additional custom touches include new open-and-closed signs, restroom signage, and a custom logo installation created by local creative duo Nick Smith and Codie Howard of Smoward Studio. Exterior signage was designed by Steltek, helping complete a refreshed visitor experience from the moment guests arrive.
The project represents a deliberate investment in local talent and a commitment to elevating Bedford County's creative economy. Every element of the Welcome Center—from the furniture and artwork to the retail offerings and signage—was intentionally sourced from local artists, makers, and businesses whenever possible.
At a time when travelers increasingly seek authentic experiences and meaningful connections to the places they visit, Discover Bedford County believes the Welcome Center itself should be a destination.
"The depth of artistic talent, craftsmanship, and entrepreneurship in Bedford County is extraordinary," Kelly said. "We're proud to provide a space where visitors can experience that creativity firsthand and where our local makers, artists, and small businesses can be celebrated year-round. This project is a reflection of what happens when a community comes together to showcase its best."
Residents, visitors, and community partners are invited to stop by, explore the refreshed space, shop locally crafted products, and experience the new Welcome Center for themselves.
The Discover Bedford County Welcome Center is located at 131 South Juliana Street in Bedford and is open seven days a week, welcoming travelers and residents alike to discover what makes Bedford County unexpected.
