Bears aren't usually in view unless you have a nice big picnic basket nearby. But in a barn not too far from Berks County, they are quite friendly, even huggable. It's referred to as the "world's most humongous teddy bear store." WFMZ's Karin Mallett takes us there in tonight's One Tank Trip.  You'll be looking for Goldilocks for quite awhile but you'll find the three bears.. make that 30,000 bears in no time. >> Dan Baumgardner: We came about in 2002 when we said hey build a huge barn to put all these bears in. >> REPORTER: There are 4 floors of teddy bears and other critters at Boyds Bear Country just outside of Gettysburg in Adams County. >> Gary Lowenthal founded the company back in 1979. He actually began by carving duck decoys out of wood. >> REPORTER: There were a few steps in between to get from duck decoys to plush toys but the first bear was born in 1983. This time of year.. the flagship store of the Boyds Collection is decked out for the holidays. >> From the minute you walk into the store you just feel that Christmas spirit. >> Standup: Next to the 25 foot teddy bear tree is Santa's sleigh, appropriately up here on the rooftop. And if you thought only the man in the big red suit got to come down the chimney.. think again. >> REPORTER: You can play while you shop but- >> nats: >> REPORTER: they'll put you to work at the super duper bear factory. >> nats: >> REPORTER: With your hard hat on, you'll pick your pet and fill it up with love, laughter and friendship. >> nats: >> REPORTER: Ssshhhhh... these bears were just born.. they're up for adoption in the teddy bear nursery. >> they have diapers on - we promise they are all fresh - you'll never find surprises in there. >> REPORTER: And if bears don't strike your fancy.. there are other pups and pals to choose from. >> It's fun to watch the little kids put the collars and leashes on and drag them around the store- we say that's how we keep our floors so clean. >> REPORTER: Tracking teddy bears on a One Tank Trip to Boyds Bear County, Karin Mallett, 69 News Berks Edition.

website: http://www.boydsbearcountry.com/
One-way distance: 102 miles
One-way time: 1 hour, 40 minutes
original airdate: 12/10/2008

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