Anyone who drives down Route 15 in north-central Pennsylvania has seen the sign at left. Some even stop in for a visit. It's Reptiland, and it's between Williamsport and Interstate 80.
In some ways, this place feels like a trip back in a time machine. It's a classic roadside attraction - not really homogenized as some of the places are today, and not exactly on Main Street in a big city. Reptiland is simply a zoo with a variety of creatures ready to be seen.
It opened in 1964, so we're at more than 60 years and counting. The theory is that people want to see a variety of reptiles, and learn something about them along the way. Sounds like it's been a hit, based on the longevity of the facility.
The attraction has an assortment of reptiles, including turtles, snakes, etc. Oddly, I found the most interesting animal to be an emu, who doesn't really fit in with the rest of the group. Darn cute, though.
By the way, there are a few souvenirs on sale. I still have my mug. (The website really needs a link to buy some merchandise.) Clyde Peeling (you know, the guy on the sign) wrote a book about his life's experiences with reptiles. It is called "Reptiland: How a Boyhood Dream Became a Modern Zoo."
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