Quick Links

It may not be a place one may consider visiting in Pennsylvania. It’s nothing like the Poconos Mountains and not anyone’s idea of a romantic getaway that the Keystone State is known for. Definitely, off the beaten path, the Volkswagen Graveyard will interest those who want a short break from a typical vacation itinerary. Fortunately, it won’t disappoint. And for history buffs—or those who are just interested in automobiles—this trip will be enjoyable.

In this article, we show why those heading to Pennsylvania should consider exploring the fascinating Volkswagen Graveyard. In addition, we include information on how to get there and how best to enjoy this attraction that’s unique in every sense of the word. Let’s dive in.

Here’s What You Need To Know About The Volkswagen Graveyard

While our idea of a graveyard is about lonely trees casting their somber shadows on tombs where dead bodies quietly repose—or brief but unforgettable epitaphs like Winston Churchill's “I am ready to meet my Maker. Whether my Maker is prepared for the great ordeal of meeting me is another matter,"—the Volkswagen Graveyard is a slightly different kettle of fish.

For starters, many attractions that are properly called so are well publicized and easy to locate. Not so with the Volkswagen Graveyard.

The place looks secretive. As if it doesn’t want to be discovered. Finding its location almost looks like an unenviable task.

But once one sets foot here, his interest is suddenly piqued. The place is a sea of Volkswagens. Every color. Every make. Every model.

There are those old Volkswagens that look like they are prehistoric. And on the other hand of the spectrum, quite a number are the more modern, hippie vans of yesteryears.

But they all with one accord reveal their state: Almost all are rusting away as if assessed as unable to cope with the pace of modern life. Even the woods and trees seem to sympathize with them.

Related: 8 Places First-Timers Should Consider Visiting In Pennsylvania

The vehicles are organized into rows and groups. Seemingly based on age. Except for a single part or two, most of the cars look like they can hit the road with just a little mechanical nudging.

There are also piles of doors, evidently organized by model. All these doors are methodically arranged into rows and made to rest on the tree trunks.

While Volkswagen Beetles and Campervans dominate this strange graveyard, latter-day makes like Volkswagen Golf can also be spotted. These include the 1983 Rabbit LS model.

But it’s not all Volkswagens. Sitting lonely and obviously alone is a Mercedes-Benz W114 280.

How The Volkswagen Graveyard Came To Be

Behind every grave, there’s a story. Apparently, the owner set up this place way back in 1974. It was set up as a warehouse.

Whether his intention was to repair and resell the vehicles—or to deal only with parts and spares—is not clear. The most probable explanation is that the owner deals with used cars.

His business model was probably to buy these wrecks, rebuild, retitle—and then sell them off at a slight margin.

Whatever the case, business doesn’t seem to be thriving. On a visit, one gets the idea that whatever business was going on was wound up several years ago, leaving only these rusting bodies, guarded by slender moss-covered beech trees, as reminders.

But again, who knows? Probably the owner has something up his sleeve, like stockpiling them for a chance to make a killing in the future.

Maybe there’ll be worth much more in the future (some are already valuable). Unfortunately, it’s all speculation.

Related: This Lighthouse Stands Watch Over The Graveyard Of The Atlantic

How To Get To The Volkswagen Graveyard In Pennsylvania

This fascinating graveyard is located in Pennsylvania's Luzerne County. Luzerne County is on the northeastern side of Pennsylvania.

For anyone wanting to visit the Volkswagen Graveyard, it’s a good idea to drive to Concrete City. From Concrete City, it’s easier to find directions to the Volkswagen Graveyard.

In the woods, a conspicuous sign reads: “No Trespassing.” And there’s a reason. It turns out that a vising group had taken pictures of the place which they subsequently shared widely.

Consequently, the place was overrun with camera-holding visitors eager to share pictures of this mechanical mystery.

When the owner comes around, it’s important to be as frank and as friendly as possible. Commenters online state that the owner is OK with visitors on Sundays; other days require permission.

It’s important to note that this is private property.

Therefore, access is never really guaranteed. But for those who are lucky, it's an incredible sight to behold.