The Bedford Area Welcome Center provides visitors with information on the Peaks of Otter, National D-Day Memorial, Smith Mountain Lake, Bedford Museum, Bedford Wine Trail, orchards, and more.
Located between Lynchburg and Roanoke, Bedford’s authentic rural beauty is home to amazing experiences including the acclaimed National D-Day Memorial, awe-inspiring views, fine wines, and crisp apples. More by clicking here.
Exhibits
Bedford welcomes visitors to experience award-winning wines along the Wine Trail, Thomas Jefferson’s retreat at Poplar Forest, breathtaking overlooks and trails of the Blue Ridge Parkway at Sharp Top and Flat Top, and world-class fishing at Smith Mountain Lake. Visitors can also pay homage to the 34 men from the Bedford County National Guard who stormed the beaches of Normandy during WWII at the National D-Day Memorial.
The Bedford City/County Museum, housed in a historic 1895 Romanesque revival building, shares the town’s rich history through numerous themed rooms. Collections showcase Bedford’s role in local, regional, and national events from Native American to the current military services. The first floor of the museum is home to the county’s genealogical research library.
Historic Avenel, a Federal and Greek Revival-style brick plantation home, is open for tours, family-friendly educational programs, and Harry Leist’s famous cheesecake. The museum offers a variety of events throughout the year.
Meeting Space
Located on the Peaks of Otter overlooking the manmade Abbott Lake, the Welcome Center is comprised of exhibit and display space as well as administrative offices for Bedford Tourism. The center offers breathtaking views of the Peaks of Otter and the National D-Day Memorial and is open daily from 9 am-5 pm.
The Town of Bedford has reached an agreement with a hotel developer to bring the first business-class hotel to the area. The hotel will be built on Town-owned land on Burks Hill Road near the National D-Day Memorial, the Bedford Area Welcome Center, and U.S. Route 460.
Ideally situated between Roanoke and Lynchburg, Bedford offers a small-town feel and authentic outdoor adventure. Visitors can explore the Blue Ridge Parkway, follow in Thomas Jefferson’s footsteps at Poplar Forest, relax on Smith Mountain Lake, visit local vineyards, or experience the arts at the Bower Center for the Arts and Sedalia Center. The Town is also less than an hour’s drive from the Roanoke-Blacksburg Regional Airport and has daily train and air service to major markets. Discover more exciting places here.
Campground
The Bedford Area Welcome Center houses exhibit and meeting space and serves as the local tourism office. It is also home to a full-service RV park and campground, including a Tesla charging station. Inside, a firefighter’s exhibit with a 1927 Seagrave pumper highlights the attraction along with an orientation theater and gift shop. Outside, covered porches and rocking chairs along with a LOVE sign and picnic areas create a memorable welcome to Bedford.
Visitors to the area enjoy a variety of activities including hiking trails, wildflower walks, and mountain biking at The Peaks of Otter. The National D-Day Memorial, Thomas Jefferson’s retreat, Poplar Forest, Smith Mountain Lake, and historic downtown Bedford are other must-see attractions.
There are numerous hotels and unique lodging options to choose from in the area. From the mountains to the lake, Bedford has accommodations to suit any taste and budget. Many hotels offer breakfast, lunch, and dinner as well as a variety of amenities.
Restaurants
A variety of restaurants are available in Bedford, many offering breakfast, lunch and dinner. Some are historic, others new awesome businesses. The Liberty Station Restaurant is a great example of the latter, built in an old train station and still retaining some of its trappings. They serve a wide range of American fare for a good price. You can also grab a tasty microbrew at Beale’s Beer while enjoying some great music.
In addition to a variety of dining options, the area also features a number of shops. Adams Clocks Repair is a must for any clock lovers, Needful Things Antique Mall is full of antique treasures and BVA Mercantile has unique handmade furniture made from reclaimed wood.
With its breathtaking natural beauty and rich history, it’s no wonder that cozy Bedford is often referred to as “the world’s best little town.” You’ll find amazing experiences like exploring the Blue Ridge Parkway, walking in Thomas Jefferson’s footsteps at Poplar Forest, or relaxing on Smith Mountain Lake. Refer to This Web Page.
Driving directions from Pure Vue Window Cleaning to Bedford Area Welcome Center
Driving directions from Bedford Area Welcome Center to Liberty Lake Park