From the magnificent Peaks of Otter along the Blue Ridge Parkway to the shores of Smith Mountain Lake, Bedford offers outdoor adventure and historical treasures! 

Bedford has more mileage along the Blue Ridge Parkway than any county in Virginia.  Exit the Parkway and explore wineries, breweries, orchards, and trails for hiking, biking, and horseback riding. The area boasts more than 120 holes of disc golf, in addition to more than 30 miles of mountain bike trails.  

Set against a backdrop that includes breathtaking views of the Blue Ridge, the National D-Day Memorial tells the story of the Allied sacrifice of June 6, 1944.  This 50-acre outdoor site is open daily.  After touring the Memorial, a short drive into historic downtown will take you to the Bedford Boys Tribute Center. This museum features personal items of the Bedford Boys who landed on Omaha Beach, June 6, 1944.  Purchase a “Combo Ticket” and add Thomas Jefferson’s personal retreat home to your list. This discounted ticket grants admission with a guided tour at both the National D-Day Memorial and Poplar Forest. 

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Historic downtown Bedford offers art galleries, antiques, and restaurants that are within easy walking distance from each other in a charming atmosphere of 19th Century buildings. 

Smith Mountain Lake makes up the southern border of Bedford and is among the most popular vacation and recreational spots on the East Coast! Enjoy water sports, fishing, and breathtaking sunsets. Smith Mountain Lake State Park offers a public beach, trails, cabins, and camping.

You will need more than a day to experience it all! Check out the many different lodging options at destinationbedfordva.com/accommodations.     

While in Bedford, be sure to stop by the Bedford Area Welcome Center.  The Welcome Center offers a gift shop, firefighters’ gallery, RV hook-ups, electric car charging station, LOVE sign, and more!  Open daily 9 a.m. – 5 p.m. Go to DestinationBedfordVA.com or call (540) 587-5681 to find out more!