Lorry Perkins
Writer, Travel Blogger
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Shoes On Still Traveling: Brick House Bed and Breakfast, New Bethlehem, PA
Face it. We all feel the same way. Groundhog Day, the movie. It has become our way of life since the pandemic. Needing a break from the day-to-day doldrums and February’s cold and grey sky, we packed up the car and headed to the hills, northeast of Pittsburgh, PA. Just a little over an hour away, situated along Redbank Creek in Armstrong County, we found the charming rustic Brick House Bed and Breakfast built in 1820.
Starting with my Favorite Room…the Kitchen
Since we plan our travels around food, I’ll describe the kitchen and dining areas first. Immediately our eyes were drawn to the large fireplace tucked neatly into the wall of the kitchen. Large enough to provide heat to the kitchen back in the day, it was most likely where all of the food was prepared too when the house was built in the early 1800s. Updated and modernized, but with the bones intact, the kitchen is a perfect blend of old with modern-day comforts.
Breakfast is included and can be served according to your schedule within reason. It includes freshly brewed coffee, an assortment of juices, breakfast sweet, and the special entree of the day. For early risers, they will find a 2nd-floor coffee station that includes a Keurig coffee machine. Guests can make a cup of coffee, hot tea, or hot chocolate any time of the day or night. Another Keurig is located on the first floor in the kitchen and bottled water is available to guests in the kitchen refrigerator.
Man and Woman Cave
Man caves are all the rage, but this B&B has what I would call a man and woman cave tucked neatly into the lower level basement. Beautifully sealed stones surround the room, with a large screen TV, comfy easy chairs, and a heated concrete floor that warms the toes. Perfect for a chilly afternoon nap or evening entertainment.
Exploring the Cupola
Exploring attics in old homes is an adventure, but climbing the stairs to the cupola at the Brick House Bed and Breakfast is a walk through history. The walls are lined with old newspapers and wallpaper preserved under plexiglass. Once you reach the top landing, there is a seating area made from antique doors and covered with upholstered cushions for indoor seating and viewing. Step outside to a 360-degree view of the property and a front-row seat to Redbank Creek. This is a perfect place to relax with a book (weather permitting), watch a sunrise with a cup of coffee, or end the day with an inspirational sunset.
In addition to the 8 bedrooms available in the house, check out the Tree House, Mine Shaft, and 5 fully stocked cabins. There are a few places to eat right in town, or you can travel about 22 minutes to historic Brookville for additional dining choices, shopping, and sightseeing.
Things To Do
Things to do while here include, fishing, kayaking, bike-riding, hiking, and cross country skiing on the Redbank Valley Trails. The trail is a 41 mile nonmotorized, 4 season trail, starting at the mouth of Redbank Creek at the Allegheny River and ending by Brookville. The Brick House is located near mile marker 23.
I would be remiss if I failed to mention the creativity, meticulous attention to detail, and tasteful decorative touches found throughout the Brick House Bed and Breakfast. Unmistakably, recreating this home and grounds, were a labor of love. Kudos to the owners, Brenda and Glen Shick, for their vision and tireless work, and to their employees who obviously care about making everyone’s stay comfortable and enjoyable.
Reservations can be made online via the website or by calling 814-227-3567 between 8 am and 9 pm. All cancellations must be made 7 days prior to your visit. Check-in is at 4 pm and check-out is at 11 am. Policies include no children ages 15 and under, no smoking, and no pets.
Nice place. I hope to go there some day!
This seems to be a great experience 😊
The Brick House B&B looks like a charming spot to get away for a quick escape. Especially in February! So fun to find a man and woman cave. Lots of outdoor activities to keep you busy if you wanted to lave this retreat.
This is such a cute little place. I certainly prefer small cozy lodgings with personal touch. Also the surroundings seem to be just lovely. It’s probably the perfect place for a long, serene weekend.