Fields, farms and wildlife: An agritourism escape in Bedford County
The road curves past rolling pastures, weathered barns and fields that have been worked by generations of Bedford County families. Here, agriculture is more than an industry. It's a way of life woven into the landscape.
For visitors, that means opportunities to experience rural Pennsylvania firsthand. Spend a weekend meeting alpacas and bison, exploring wildlife conservation efforts, browsing farm stores and discovering the places where Bedford County's agricultural roots continue to thrive.
Whether you're traveling with children, looking for a unique road trip or simply searching for a slower pace, this agritourism itinerary offers a closer look at the people, animals and landscapes that make Bedford County special.
Day 1: Farm life and local flavors
Start your journey in Bedford, where country roads quickly give way to working farms and scenic vistas.
One of the most charming introductions to Bedford County's agricultural heritage can be found at Fishers Country Store. The family-owned store is known for its old-fashioned deli, local goods and a small herd of llamas that greet visitors outside.
Grab a snack, browse the shelves and spend a few moments getting acquainted with some of the county's friendliest residents before heading farther into the countryside.
From there, continue to MeePah Ventures in Buffalo Mills, where alpacas have become both ambassadors and attractions. Visitors can arrange farm tours and learn about these curious animals while exploring the property and gift shop. Soft alpaca products, handcrafted goods and the chance to interact with the animals make this stop particularly popular with families.
The experience offers a glimpse into the ways Bedford County farmers have diversified traditional agriculture by creating visitor experiences that connect people directly to the land.
After lunch, continue your exploration at Hospitality Spring Farm.
The working farm offers visitors an opportunity to learn more about local agriculture while shopping for products produced on-site. The experience reflects a growing interest among travelers in understanding where food and farm products originate and the people responsible for producing them.
As the afternoon unfolds, consider taking the scenic route back toward Bedford. Much of the appeal of agritourism lies not only in the destinations themselves, but also in the journey between them. Quiet roads wind through valleys and ridgelines, offering views of farms, grazing livestock and the agricultural landscapes that have defined the region for centuries.
For dinner, head to the historic Jean Bonnet Tavern.
Originally built in the 1760s, the tavern has welcomed travelers for generations. Today, visitors can enjoy a meal before stepping outside to meet another group of local favorites: the tavern's resident goats. Guests can purchase feed from the gift shop and spend a few minutes interacting with the animals before continuing their evening.
It's a fitting end to a day spent discovering the connections between agriculture, history and community.
Staying in Bedford County overnight? Find lodging options here.
Day 2: Wildlife and conservation
Agritourism in Bedford County extends beyond traditional farms. The region also offers opportunities to learn about wildlife conservation and the stewardship of natural resources.
Begin the day with a drive through the county's southern landscapes toward Fairhope, home to the International Conservation Center.
Operated as an extension of the Pittsburgh Zoo & Aquarium, the facility serves as a center for wildlife conservation and education. Open for events and scheduled visits, the property provides visitors with an opportunity to learn about species conservation efforts taking place both locally and around the world.
The center's expansive landscape and conservation mission offer a reminder that agriculture and environmental stewardship often go hand in hand.
Visitors interested in photography should keep their cameras ready. The surrounding countryside provides some of the county's most scenic rural views.
Afterward, continue exploring Bedford County's rural backroads before making your way toward Schellsburg.
Along Route 30, The Bison Corral has become one of the county's most recognizable roadside attractions. Visitors can stop at the gift shop and watch the herd grazing in nearby fields.
There's something undeniably memorable about spotting these massive animals against the backdrop of Pennsylvania farmland. The stop provides a unique perspective on the diversity of livestock and animal experiences available throughout the region.
For many travelers, it's also one of those unexpected discoveries that becomes a favorite memory from the trip.
In the afternoon, head to Reynoldsdale Fish Hatchery.
Located just off Route 56, the hatchery raises trout while also offering educational opportunities for visitors. A two-story visitor center and museum help explain the lifecycle of trout and the role hatcheries play in supporting Pennsylvania's fisheries.
Families can observe fish at various stages of development and gain a greater appreciation for the management of aquatic resources across the Commonwealth.
The hatchery serves as another example of how Bedford County's connection to the natural world extends beyond farms and fields.
Before returning home, take time to enjoy one final scenic drive through the countryside. Along the way, you'll pass fields, forests and farms that continue to shape the character of the region.
Beyond the itinerary
Visitors looking to expand their agritourism adventure may want to pair these experiences with additional outdoor recreation, farmers markets, seasonal festivals or heritage attractions throughout Bedford County.
The county's agricultural story is not confined to a single farm or attraction. It can be found in roadside markets, family-owned businesses, conservation initiatives and the generations of people who continue to care for the land.
In Bedford County, agritourism is less about checking attractions off a list and more about slowing down long enough to experience rural life.
From feeding goats and meeting alpacas to observing bison and learning about wildlife conservation, visitors will discover that some of the county's most memorable experiences happen far from the interstate and closer to the places where agriculture, nature and community meet.
