Roadside America

I’ve been researching a story for the travel writing workshop I’m taking this semester at Hopkins, and I just have to share a brief post about it – this is one of the most curious things I’ve ever seen.

Located just off Hwy. 78 in Pennsylvania, about halfway between Harrisburg and Allentown, Roadside America is touted as “The World’s Greatest Indoor Miniature Village.” And, after reading these reviews on Yelp, I had to check it out.

Last week, I drove two hours to the middle of Pennsylvania to see what all the fuss is about. I must say, it’s fascinating. The exhibit is 8,000 square feet of miniature models, all made by one man – Laurence Gieringer. He began the hobby as a boy and continued until his death in 1963. His granddaughter, Delores Heinsohn, now runs the attraction. “It’s very difficult to explain to people who have never seen it,” she says.

True, but I can try.  There are more than 300 buildings, 10,000 trees, and 4,000 miniature people. Everything is made by hand. Several model trains and trolleys run through ’50s suburban neighborhoods, rolling farmland, and a pioneer town. There’s even a cemetery beside a church with names written on the tiny tombstones. Visitors can push buttons along the self-guided tour to animate different parts of the village.

It’s kitschy Americana, but on a scale so grand it’s kind of awe-inspiring. And you have to admire the craftsmanship and dedication it took to build it.

Roadside America doesn’t look like much from the outside, but it’s totally worth the $6.75 ticket price. If you’re taking a road trip through Pennsylvania, it’s a great place to stop and stretch your legs.