The National Museum of the American Coverlet–Bedford, PA

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About Bedford

Bedford, Pennsylvania is located in south-central Pennsylvania, three hours west of Lancaster, four hours west of the Washington/Baltimore/Philadelphia area, and one and a half hours southeast of Pittsburgh. It is easily accessible from the Pennsylvania Turnpike, I-70, State Route 99 (the north-south corridor of Route 220), and I-68 from the South.

Bedford is a well-known destination for people who like old things. The town was founded in 1758. Its beauty and history attract visitors from around the country.

Bedford boasts a number of early buildings and several historic attractions, including Fort Bedford* (part of the original fort system), Old Bedford Village* (a recreation of an early village), and the 200-year-old, newly restored Bedford Springs* a four-star resort and spa with an illustrious history.

The National Museum of the American Coverlet is in the historic district, a short walk from the town square (shown here) and only 1-1/2 miles from the Bedford Springs Hotel.

* Read more about it!

From April through December the Museum & Museum Shop are open daily Monday through Saturday 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. & Sunday noon to 4 p.m.
Closed Tuesdays & Wednesdays January through March
Admission is $10. Kids under 12 are free. Group rates available.

Parking: There is ample free parking on site. We can accommodate buses in either of our parking lots, or on Juliana Street in front of the building.

Motel Accommodations: There are several chain motels in the area. Most are located near the PA Turnpike entrance/exit, about 3 miles from the Museum, but a few are closer. Rooms are available for all budget levels. Call us for suggestions.

Dining: Although Bedford is a small town, there is a surprising variety of unique locally owned eateries – laid back to fancy – as well as fast food chains, ice cream shops and even a chocolatier.

Gas Stations/Convenience Stores: Yes, we have them too – at the Turnpike entrance/exit.

Sightseeing: The Coverlet Museum is located in a lovely part of Pennsylvania. We have lots of beautiful countryside and all manner of things to see and do. A number of important historic and interesting attractions are in town or within a short drive. (See “Links” on this website.) For more information, contact us at 814.623.1588 or info@coverletmuseum.org or the Bedford County Visitors Bureau at 800.765.1331 or visitbedfordcounty.com.   They can send you a free guide book and a selection of brochures tailored to meet your individual interests.

Buses: Group tours are always welcome.   Please call in advance to be sure we don’t have another group coming in at the same time. A guided tour is included w/admission price. Group rates available.

In-Town Directions: The Museum is located on South Juliana Street. From the courthouse square at the heart of town, head south on Juliana Street. Pass John and Butler Streets on your right, and you will see our large brick schoolhouse building. If you like landmarks: On your left you will see the historic cemetery and then the Chancellor House B&B (a large brick home with green shutters). We are across the street from the B&B. …You’ll be here in less time than it took you to read this paragraph! If you have trouble following the map or finding us once you get to town, give us a call. We’ll talk you in!

Driving Times:

From Baltimore/Washington: travel west 4 hours

From Lancaster: go west 3 hours

From Harrisburg: go west 1-1/2 hours

From Pittsburgh: head south east 1-1/2 hrs.

From Cumberland, MD: straight north, half hour via Rte 220 N