Date: August 4, 2026
Registration: Open (View Pricing and Register)
Discover the rich history of Bedford County, Pennsylvania, where frontier life, presidential visits, and healing springs intersect. From its origins as a frontier trading post to its prominence during the French and Indian War and the Whiskey Rebellion, Bedford County offers a fascinating window into American history.
Historical Overview
The area around Bedford was first inhabited by European traders in the late 1740s and early 1750s. Bedford was originally founded around 1750 as Raystown, a frontier town that quickly became a military hub. Fort Bedford was built that same year to support General John Forbes in constructing the Forbes Road, a critical supply route during the campaign against Fort Duquesne.
In 1794, Bedford played a pivotal role in the Whiskey Rebellion, with President George Washington assembling troops in the area to enforce federal law.
During the 19th century, the county became renowned for its medicinal springs. The Bedford Springs Resort, established in 1806 by Dr. John Anderson, drew visitors seeking its “healing waters.” Notably, President James Buchanan used the resort as his summer White House, where he received the first trans-Atlantic cable message from Queen Victoria on August 17, 1858. The resort also hosted the only U.S. Supreme Court session held outside Washington, D.C., in 1855. Other presidents, including Rutherford B. Hayes, James Garfield, and Benjamin Harrison, also visited Bedford Springs.
Trip Highlights
- Omni Bedford Springs Resort: A National Historic Landmark, offering historic architecture, scenic grounds, and fine dining
- Fort Bedford Museum: Explore the reconstructed fort and learn about Bedford’s frontier and military history.
- National Museum of the American Coverlet: Discover a unique collection celebrating traditional weaving and regional artistry.
- Historic Downtown Bedford: Quaint streets, bronze sculptures, and shops with unique local charm
Enjoy a full day of history and sightseeing, along with a relaxing afternoon tea at the Omni Bedford Springs Resort.
Itinerary
| Time | Activity |
|---|---|
|
7:30 a.m. |
Bus departs from Fullington Trailways, 2101 Alexandria Drive, State College (near the State College Regional Airport). Free parking is available for the day. Historian Adam Osman (formerly of the Bedford Visitors Bureau) will be joining attendees on the bus and will provide context for what we will be seeing and doing. Adam will also be our guide at the Fort Bedford Museum. |
|
9:00 a.m. |
Arrive at Fort Bedford Museum, 110 Fort Bedford Drive, Bedford Guided tour with Adam Osman. Learn about frontier life, military history, and the significance of Forbes Road. |
|
10:30 a.m.–1:30 p.m. |
Explore historic Bedford and lunch on your own. Dining options: Golden Eagle Inn, Bad Boyz Bistro, Bedford Tavern, HeBrews Coffee Company, and Olde Bedford Brewing Company Optional visit to the SOMA Museum of Art or local shops, many of which are women-owned and historically significant. |
|
1:30 p.m. |
Meet at the National Museum of the American Coverlet, 322 S. Juliana Street, Bedford Explore one of the nation’s largest collections of coverlets, weaving tools, and regional textile history. Restrooms available on site. |
|
3:00–4:00 p.m. |
Historic cemetery and sculpture walking tour Rudy Plummer will lead the group through the historic cemetery, sharing stories and historical context along the way. The sculptures in Bedford include permanent bronze installations and unique metalworks throughout the area. Wayne Hyde will highlight several notable works, including his Vietnam War memorial statue of Robert Hartsock and his dog Duke, as well as the distinctive Horseshoe Sculpture. |
|
4:00 p.m. |
Board bus and depart for Omni Bedford Springs Resort & Spa, 2198 Sweet Root Road, Bedford |
|
4:15 p.m. |
Arrive at Omni Bedford Springs Resort & Spa. Light meal of tea, four varieties of finger sandwiches, lemonade, iced tea, and water. Omni Bedford Springs Resort & Spa began in 1796 around its famed mineral springs and was developed into a resort by Dr. John Anderson in 1798. It became one of America’s premier 19th-century spa destinations, hosting notable guests including President James Buchanan. After serving various roles in the 20th century and closing in 1986, the historic property was restored and reopened in 2007, continuing its legacy as a luxury resort. Enjoy the historic ambiance and beautiful resort grounds. |
|
6:30 p.m. |
Depart for State College |
|
8:00 p.m. |
Arrive at Fullington Trailways, State College |
Cost per person
Member pricing: $140
Nonmember pricing: $165
Cost includes: bus transportation, ticket entry for Fort Bedford Museum, National Museum of the American Coverlet, and light meal at Omni Bedford Springs Resort
Not included: Lunch and gratuities for tour guides