Bedford County Neighbor

Welcome to Bedford, Virginia!

Unforgettable experiences await between the Blue Ridge Parkway and Smith Mountain Lake!

Enjoy breathtaking mountain views along the Blue Ridge Parkway and spend time at the iconic Peaks of Otter, where hiking trails, scenic Abbott Lake and the historic Peaks of Otter Lodge invite you to slow down and enjoy the beauty of the Blue Ridge. To the south, Smith Mountain Lake offers boating, fishing, paddling, waterfront dining, lodging and endless opportunities to get outside.

Bedford’s rich history is just as remarkable. Honor the Bedford Boys and the heroes of D-Day at the National D-Day Memorial, and walk in the footsteps of Thomas Jefferson at Poplar Forest, his private retreat and UNESCO World Heritage Site.

Explore charming downtown Bedford, where locally owned shops and restaurants mingle with arts, culture and history. Discover Bedford’s rich heritage at the Bedford Boys Tribute Center and Bedford Museum & Genealogical Library, and experience local and regional arts at the Bower Center for the Arts. Bedford is also proud to be designated Virginia’s only World War II Heritage City, recognizing the community’s extraordinary connection to World War II history.

Sip your way through the Bottled in Bedford Craft Beverage Trail and enjoy locally crafted beer, wine, cider and mead. Outdoor enthusiasts will find miles of hiking and biking trails, championship disc golf and plenty of ways to experience the area’s natural beauty, including apple picking, horseback riding, and more.

With so much to see and do, Bedford is worth more than a day trip. Stay at one of our hotels, cabins, campgrounds, vacation rentals or other unique lodging properties and make Bedford your home base for exploring the region.

Start your visit at the Bedford Area Welcome Center and don’t forget a photo with the Bedford LOVE sign!

Plan your visit at DestinationBedfordVA.com or call 1-877-HI-PEAKS.  Check out the special Events page.

History & Museums

Bedford’s history spans centuries, with stories that have shaped both Virginia and the nation. Honor the Bedford Boys and the heroes of World War II at the National D-Day Memorial and Bedford Boys Tribute Center, explore local history at the Bedford Museum & Genealogical Library, and walk in the footsteps of Thomas Jefferson at Poplar Forest. From early American history to Bedford’s powerful World War II legacy, there are many stories waiting to be discovered.