Summer Traditions Begin in Bedford County

Long Days, Cool Mountain Nights, and Centuries of Stories

Summer in Bedford County is a step back in time. Since the mid-1800s, travelers have flocked to our mountain springs to escape the summer heat, and today, that tradition of summer trips to the countryside lives on.

Whether you’re walking the sun-dappled streets of our 18th-century downtown or exploring the living history at Old Bedford Village, the season of adventure (capped off by America’s 250th birthday) is officially here.

Experience the "Summer White House" and Frontier Fortresses

Summer is the peak of our “living history” season. In the 19th century, the nation’s elite escaped to the Omni Bedford Springs Resort to conduct the nation’s business in the cool mountain air. Today, you can walk the same shaded colonnades.

Abe Lincoln at Old Bedford Village
  • Old Bedford Village: Watch the frontier come to life through daily demonstrations of 18th-century trades.
  • The Espy House: Stand where Washington stood during the 1794 Whiskey Rebellion.
  • The “Hidden” Ruins: Explore the stone remains of the Hopewell Iron Furnaces, best seen in the summer when they are framed by lush mountain ferns.
Omni Resort

The Past Becomes Your Playground

Forget the digital screens; summer here is about tangible history and classic American fun.

  • Bedford Speedway: Take the family to the oldest active dirt track in PA (est. 1936) for a Saturday night tradition that screams “American Summer.”
  • Shawnee State Park: Rent a boat and picnic near the water, then visit the markers detailing the valley’s history before the lake was formed.
  • Hands-on History: The history doesn’t stop at Fort Bedford Museum’s exhibits; the real magic is attending their special events for everything from reenactments to crafting your own, historically accurate footwear.

Forge Your Own Frontier

Our trails weren’t originally built for recreation; they were built for survival, trade, and the expansion of our early country.

  • The Forbes Road: Hike or bike sections of the original 1758 military trail that cut through the wilderness.
  • The H&BT Rail Trail: Follow the ghost of the Huntingdon & Broad Top Mountain Railroad along the river.
  • River Navigation: Kayak the Raystown Branch of the Juniata, the same waterway used by native inhabitants and early settlers for centuries.

Frames of the Past, Views of the Future

For photographers and storytellers, Bedford County offers a “vintage-modern” palette unmatched in summer light.

  • The “Coffee Pot”: Capture the 1927 Lincoln Highway icon, a quintessential piece of American road-trip kitsch.
  • Golden Hour at the Bridges: Our 14 covered bridges are perfectly framed by high-summer greenery and deep blue skies.
  • Architecture Spotting: The Federal-style brickwork of Downtown Bedford provides a sophisticated, historic backdrop for any lifestyle shoot.

Taste the Tradition of the Land

Our history is rooted in the soil. Reap the rewards of our harvest with picking opportunities and farm-to-table produce all summer long.

  • Farmers Markets: Visit the Bedford Farmers Market on the square to find heirloom varieties that have been grown in this valley for generations.
  • Farm-to-Table Roots: Dine at the Horn O Plenty restaurant, where everything from the protein to the dairy, honey, and produce is sourced within a few miles at local farms.
Winter time at Bedford Springs Omni Resort

Winter, Unexpected

Plan Your Bedford County Getaway

Whether you’re escaping for a cozy weekend, planning a family adventure, or looking to recharge at a relaxing resort, Bedford County offers the perfect backdrop for a refreshing winter getaway.

Stay in one of our charming inns, mountainside lodges, cozy b&bs, modern hotels, or relaxing resorts.