Roll down your car windows and hit the open road for the perfect autumn day trip. This charming town near Pittsburgh offers just about everything that makes a day trip perfect - quaint shops and restaurants, breathtaking fall foliage, and a comforting small town friendliness.

A little over 100 miles from Pittsburgh, downtown Bedford makes the perfect backdrop for an autumn day trip.

Take the Pennsylvania Turnpike to exit 146 then follow US-220 Business South to downtown Bedford, where you'll discover a quaint, welcoming town.

Discover the secrets of Downtown Bedford by joining a guided historic walking tour. Free walking tours are held every Friday at 3:30 p.m. from May through October. Go to the Visitors Bureau for the start of the tour.

Or, simply explore the quaint downtown Bedford on your own. You'll quickly discover how much there is to do.

Be sure to stop at perhaps the most poignant spot in Bedford. The World War II Monument, honoring the Greatest Generation, is located at Penn and Juliana Streets. Around the memorial sits an honor walk, with the names of those who served in World War II etched in each brick.

Stroll through the charming shops downtown to find the perfect souvenir or gift for a loved one in Pittsburgh.

Relive the good old days by playing a few games of pinball at Pinhead Amusements. For $10, play as many games as you want on the 50 old-fashioned pinball machines.

Step back in time when you go to Pitt Theatre, which dates back to 1939. Catch a current film while enjoying a traditional experience. The Pitt promises no more than three trailers before the feature comes on, spotless bathrooms, and affordable prices.

Bedford County offers just as much to see and to do as downtown Bedford. For a rustic autumn adventure, embark on a picturesque tour of the covered bridges of Bedford County. For a free brochure with a map, visit the Bedford County Visitors Bureau or call 1-800-765-3331.

Save some time for the whimsical during your day trip to Bedford. A stop at the Coffee Pot, only one of five such coffee pot roadside attractions left in the United States, is a must.

Gas up your car and, even if you don't need gas, make a pit stop at Dunkle's Gulf Services simply for the experience. The deco art gas station, one of the few remaining today, makes the perfect backdrop for selfies and artistic shots.

Before heading back to Pittsburgh, stop by the historic (and allegedly haunted) Jean Bonnet Tavern. Dating back to 1762, the Jean Bonnet Tavern features a restaurant, a tavern, and four luxurious guest rooms for overnight guests.

Bedford, a charming town near Pittsburgh, makes the perfect spot for an autumn day trip. And, if you want to stay a little bit closer to home, visit this quaint neighborhood.