Looking for cheap Flights to Bradford, Pennsylvania, USA (BFD) airport?

Bradford, accessible via cheap flights to BFD airport, is a historic city in Northwestern Pennsylvania, nestled in the Allegheny National Forest region, renowned as the birthplace of the Zippo lighter and for its rich oil and lumber heritage, making it a compelling destination for unique industrial history and outdoor enthusiasts. The Zippo/Case Museum & Flagship Store is the undisputed unique landmark and a must-visit, offering a fascinating journey through the history of the iconic Zippo lighter and Case knives, with interactive exhibits, rare artifacts, and the famous Zippo car. It's a testament to American manufacturing and design, attracting collectors and casual visitors alike. The Bradford Landmark Society preserves and showcases the city's local history, particularly its boomtown days during the oil and lumber industries.

Bradford is located within the vast and beautiful Allegheny National Forest, offering abundant opportunities for outdoor recreation including hiking, fishing, hunting, camping, and scenic drives, especially beautiful during fall foliage. The Kinzua Bridge State Park, a short drive away, features the awe-inspiring Kinzua Skywalk, a pedestrian walkway on the remnants of what was once the world's longest and tallest railroad viaduct, offering breathtaking views into the Kinzua Gorge and a poignant reminder of nature's power. Downtown Bradford maintains a charming small-town feel with local shops and eateries. The ArtWorks on the Summit gallery showcases local and regional artists. Annual events often celebrate the region's heritage or community spirit. Explore the Allegheny River for additional fishing and boating opportunities. Savor hearty comfort food, reflecting the region's hardworking roots, at local diners and family restaurants. Bradford’s unique niche in American manufacturing history, combined with its unparalleled access to the natural beauty and recreational opportunities of the Allegheny National Forest, makes it a distinctive and authentic destination for those seeking a blend of industrial heritage and outdoor adventure in rural Pennsylvania.

Why Visit Bradford, Pennsylvania

Bradford enthralls with its Zippo/Case Museum legacy, oil boom history, and Allegheny National Forest access. Tour the lighter factory, hike Kinzua Skywalk, or fish the Allegheny River. Ideal for history buffs, collectors, and outdoor adventurers embracing rural PA wilderness.

Quick Facts & Highlights

• Nickname: Oildorado
• Airport: Bradford Regional Airport (BFD)
• Key Attractions: Zippo/Case Museum, Kinzua Skywalk, Allegheny National Forest
• Population: Approximately 7,800
• Major Event: Bradford Landmark Society Tour of Homes (annual)

Geographic Location & Climate

Nestled in Northwestern Pennsylvania's McKean County within the Allegheny Plateau, Bradford has a humid continental climate with warm summers (average high 78°F) and cold, snowy winters (average low 18°F). Fall foliage peaks in October for scenic drives.

Vital Statistics & Demographics In Bradford, Pennsylvania

Total Population

Bradford’s population is approximately 7,800 (2025 estimate).

Age Distribution

Median age around 39 years, with a balanced mix of families and older residents.

Ethnic & Racial Composition

• White: 95%
• Black or African American: 2%
• Hispanic or Latino: 1%
• Asian: 1%
• Native American: 0.5%
• Other: 0.5%

Gender Breakdown

Approximately 50% male, 50% female.

Household Types & Sizes

Average household size 2.3, with families and singles prevalent.

Population Growth Trends

Slight decline at 0.1% annually, offset by tourism and manufacturing.

Economy & Living Standards In Bradford, Pennsylvania

Major Industries & Employers

• Bradford Regional Medical Center: 41 W Interchurch St, Bradford, PA 16701
• Zippo Manufacturing Company: 1932 Zippo Dr, Bradford, PA 16701
• Allegheny Bradford Corporation: 1315 Ford St, Lewis Run, PA 16738
• University of Pittsburgh at Bradford: 300 Campus Dr, Bradford, PA 16701

Employment Rate & Job Market

Unemployment around 5%, with opportunities in healthcare, manufacturing, and education.

Median Income & Cost of Living

Median household income $52,000; cost of living below national average.

Poverty Rate & Economic Challenges

Poverty rate 14%, linked to energy sector fluctuations.

Business Environment & Investment Opportunities

Supportive for manufacturing and eco-tourism, with ANF incentives.

Health & Wellness In Bradford, Pennsylvania

General Health Overview

Quality care via Bradford Regional Medical Center, rural wellness focus.

Common Health Issues

Respiratory from winter air, seasonal allergies.

Fitness Centers & Wellness Studios

• Planet Fitness: 50 Fosterbrook Dr, Bradford, PA 16701
• Anytime Fitness: 17 W Washington St, Bradford, PA 16701
• Bradford Yoga: 11 E Main St, Bradford, PA 16701

Mental Health Resources

• BRMC Behavioral Health: 41 W Interchurch St, Bradford, PA 16701
• McKean County MH/ID/Drug & Alcohol: 44 Bolivar Dr, Bradford, PA 16701

Public Health Initiatives

Forest health walks and air quality monitoring.

Hospitals & Clinics In Bradford, Pennsylvania

Major Hospitals & Emergency Services

• Bradford Regional Medical Center: 41 W Interchurch St, Bradford, PA 16701

Urgent Care & Walk-In Clinics

• BRMC Urgent Care: 41 W Interchurch St, Bradford, PA 16701
• Express Care: 1001 S Main St, Bradford, PA 16701

Specialty Medical Centers

• BRMC Cancer Center: 41 W Interchurch St, Bradford, PA 16701
• Bradford Orthopedics: 24 S East St, Bradford, PA 16701

Telehealth & Remote Care Options

BRMC provides telehealth for rural access.

Veterinary Services & Pet Care In Bradford, Pennsylvania

Animal Hospitals & Emergency Vets

• Bradford Veterinary Clinic: 101 W Washington St, Bradford, PA 16701
• Marin Animal Hospital: 12 Mechanic St, Bradford, PA 16701

Pet Clinics & Routine Care

• Valley Veterinary Associates: 24 S East St, Bradford, PA 16701

Grooming & Boarding Facilities

• Paws & Claws Grooming: 50 Fosterbrook Dr, Bradford, PA 16701
• Bradford Kennels: 1932 Zippo Dr, Bradford, PA 16701

Pet-Friendly Parks & Trails

• Kinzua Bridge State Park: 172 PA-59, Kane, PA 16735
• Chapman State Park: 4793 Chapman Dam Rd, Clarendon, PA 16313

Local Government & Public Services In Bradford, Pennsylvania

City Hall and Administrative Offices

• Bradford City Hall: 141 S Main St, Bradford, PA 16701

County Government Services

• McKean County Courthouse: 500 W Main St, Smethport, PA 16749

Public Records and Licensing

• McKean County Recorder: 500 W Main St, Smethport, PA 16749

Planning and Zoning Departments

• Bradford Planning Dept: 141 S Main St, Bradford, PA 16701

Tax and Revenue Offices

• McKean County Treasurer: 500 W Main St, Smethport, PA 16749

Police, Fire, and Emergency Services

• Bradford Police Dept: 58 E Washington St, Bradford, PA 16701
• Bradford Fire Dept: 19 Congress St, Bradford, PA 16701

Courts and Legal Aid

• McKean County Courthouse: 500 W Main St, Smethport, PA 16749
• Legal Aid of NWPA: 1001 State St, Erie, PA 16501

Public Works and Utilities

• Bradford Public Works: 141 S Main St, Bradford, PA 16701

Voter Registration and Civic Engagement

• McKean County Elections: 500 W Main St, Smethport, PA 16749
• U.S. Senators: Bob Casey (D), John Fetterman (D)
• U.S. House Representative: Dan Meuser (R), District 9

Education & Libraries In Bradford, Pennsylvania

Public School Districts

• Bradford Area Elementary School: 150 Lorana Ave, Bradford, PA 16701
• School Street Elementary School: 150 Lorana Ave, Bradford, PA 16701
• Floyd C. Fretz Middle School: 140 Lorana Ave, Bradford, PA 16701
• Bradford Area High School: 125 Lorana Ave, Bradford, PA 16701

Charter and Private Schools

• Bradford Christian Academy: 10 N Main St, Bradford, PA 16701

Colleges and Universities

• University of Pittsburgh at Bradford: 300 Campus Dr, Bradford, PA 16701 - Main Majors: Nursing, Biology, Business Management, Criminal Justice, Sports Medicine

Public Libraries and Learning Centers

• Bradford Public Library: 67 E Main St, Bradford, PA 16701

Flights & Travel Logistics In Bradford, Pennsylvania

Cheap Flights to Bradford

Book cheap flights to Bradford, Pennsylvania, USA (BFD) and save up to $152 with early booking.

Best Time to Book

Book 1-2 months ahead for fall foliage in ANF.

Airlines That Serve Bradford, Pennsylvania

• Southern Airways Express

Nearby Airports and Alternatives

• Jamestown (JHW): 40 miles north
• Erie (ERI): 80 miles west

Transportation After Arrival

Taxis and rentals at BFD; limited local transit.

Travel Tips for First-Time Visitors

Pack layers for variable weather; explore ANF trails.

Where to Stay In Bradford, Pennsylvania

Budget-Friendly Accommodations

• Comfort Inn: 1002 E Main St, Bradford, PA 16701
• Econo Lodge: 1007 E Main St, Bradford, PA 16701

Boutique Hotels and Inns

• The Prince Street Inn: 23 S Main St, Bradford, PA 16701

Luxury Resorts and Spas

• Best Western Plus Bradford Inn: 1002 E Main St, Bradford, PA 16701

Family-Friendly Lodging

• Holiday Inn Express: 1006 E Main St, Bradford, PA 16701

Vacation Rentals and Extended Stays

• Quality Inn & Suites: 1006 E Main St, Bradford, PA 16701

Getting Around In Bradford, Pennsylvania

Public Transportation Overview

McKean County Transit offers limited routes.

Car Rentals and Ride Shares

• Enterprise: 1006 E Main St, Bradford, PA 16701
• Limited Uber/Lyft

Walkability and Bike-Friendly Areas

Downtown walkable; bike trails in ANF.

Parking Tips and Local Driving Rules

Free downtown parking; watch for wildlife.

Natural Wonders & Outdoor Activities In Bradford, Pennsylvania

National Parks and Scenic Areas

• Allegheny National Forest: 4 Farm Colony Rd, Warren, PA 16365
• Kinzua Bridge State Park: 172 PA-59, Kane, PA 16735

Hiking, Biking, and Nature Trails

• Kinzua Skywalk Trail: 172 PA-59, Kane, PA 16735

Wildlife Viewing

Deer and turkey in ANF.

Lakes, Rivers, and Water Activities

• Allegheny River: Access at Allegheny Reservoir, Bradford, PA 16701

Camping and RV Parks

• Red Bridge Recreation Area: 79 Red Bridge Rd, Bradford, PA 16701

Seasonal Outdoor Adventures

Fishing in summer; snowmobiling in winter.

History & Heritage In Bradford, Pennsylvania

Founding and Historical Background

Founded in 1861 during oil boom, named for Bradford, England.

Major Disasters and Events

1893 oil fire destroyed downtown; 2003 Kinzua Bridge tornado collapse. Events: 1871 oil rush; Zippo founding 1932.

Recovery Efforts for Recent Disaster: 2003 Kinzua Bridge Tornado

The 2003 F1 tornado collapsed the bridge; response rebuilt as Skywalk. Federal: NPS funded $4M restoration. State: PA DCNR led engineering. Local: McKean County promoted tourism. Private: Local firms donated materials. Non-profits: Trail associations cleared debris. Skywalk opened 2011, boosting economy.

Historical Landmarks

• Zippo/Case Museum: 1932 Zippo Dr, Bradford, PA 16701
• Bradford City Hall: 141 S Main St, Bradford, PA 16701

Museums and Cultural Centers

• Zippo/Case Museum: 1932 Zippo Dr, Bradford, PA 16701
• Bradford Landmark Society: 56 Main St, Bradford, PA 16701

Local Folklore and Legends

Tales of oil boom ghosts and forest spirits.

Indigenous and Pioneer History

Seneca lands; oil pioneers in 1870s.

Prominent Public and Private Personalities In Bradford, Pennsylvania

Bradford has produced influential figures in sports, invention, and arts.

• Rube Waddell (Athlete): Hall of Fame pitcher, known for eccentric personality
• Marilyn Horne (Singer): Opera mezzo-soprano, Grammy winner
• Solomon R. Dresser (Inventor): Oil pioneer, U.S. Congressman
• Louis T. McFadden (Politician): U.S. House Speaker Pro Tempore
• Frederick Haynes Newell (Engineer): First U.S. Reclamation Service Director
• Evan John Jones (Politician): U.S. Congressman
• John B. Hayes (Military): WWII general

Arts & Culture In Bradford, Pennsylvania

Performing Arts Venues

• Strickland Theatre: 201 N Main St, Bradford, PA 16701

Art Galleries and Exhibitions

• ArtWorks on the Summit: 11 E Main St, Bradford, PA 16701

Local Artists and Artisans

Oil-inspired paintings and wood carvings.

Cultural Festivals and Events

• Bradford Arts Festival: 56 Main St, Bradford, PA 16701

Music Scene and Live Performances

Concerts at Strickland Theatre.

Food & Drink In Bradford, Pennsylvania

Top Restaurants by Cuisine

• Colonial Motor Lodge Restaurant (American): 1296 E Main St, Bradford, PA 16701
• Central 46 Tavern (American): 46 W Washington St, Bradford, PA 16701

Farm-to-Table and Local Ingredients

Local beef and forest mushrooms.

Breweries, Wineries, and Distilleries

• Brewski's Brewing: 1508 E Main St, Bradford, PA 16701

Street Food and Casual Dining

• Downtown food carts: Main St, Bradford, PA 16701

Vegan, Vegetarian, and Dietary Options

Limited but at Central 46 Tavern.

Shopping & Leisure In Bradford, Pennsylvania

Local Boutiques and Artisan Shops

• Bradford Main Street Shops: 1 Main St, Bradford, PA 16701

Malls and Shopping Districts

• Bradford Towne Center: 2500 E Main St, Bradford, PA 16701

Antique Stores and Markets

• Bradford Antique Mall: 11 E Main St, Bradford, PA 16701

Souvenirs and Specialty Goods

Zippo lighters and ANF maps.

Events & Entertainment In Bradford, Pennsylvania

Annual Festivals and Parades

• Zippo/Case Museum Events: 1932 Zippo Dr, Bradford, PA 16701
• Bradford Arts Festival: 56 Main St, Bradford, PA 16701

Farmers Markets and Local Gatherings

• Bradford Farmers Market: 50 Mechanic St, Bradford, PA 16701

Sports Events and Recreational Leagues

Local hunting derbies in ANF.

Holiday Celebrations and Seasonal Fun

Fall foliage festivals and winter lights.

Nearby Destinations In Bradford, Pennsylvania

Popular Day Trips

• Elk Country Visitor Center: 25891 PA-120, Benezette, PA 15821 (30 miles east)

Hidden Gems in the Region

• Chapman State Park: 4793 Chapman Dam Rd, Clarendon, PA 16313

Scenic Drives and Routes

Allegheny National Forest Byway.

Regional Attractions Worth Visiting

• Salamanca Rail Museum: 170 Main St, Salamanca, NY 14779 (20 miles north)

Audience-Specific Guides In Bradford, Pennsylvania

Family Travel Tips

Zippo Museum and ANF picnics.

Solo Traveler Highlights

Kinzua Skywalk hikes and museum tours.

Romantic Getaways

Dine at Colonial Motor Lodge, stay at Best Western.

Business Travel Essentials

Near Bradford Regional for meetings.

Accessible Travel Resources

McKean Transit ADA; contact chamber.

Natural Resources In Bradford, Pennsylvania

Abundant in oil, timber, natural gas, and Allegheny River fisheries.

Article Published on August 27, 2025, Last Modified on September 30, 2025. Content subject to change at any time.