Bedford Area

About Bedford Area

Located in the shadow of the legendary Peaks of Otter, Bedford offers warm hospitality. The historic downtown features a fascinating local history museum, antique and specialty shops, galleries, restaurants, cafes, and a year-round welcome center. The National D-Day Memorial is located here, an inspiring tribute to the valor and sacrifice of the American and Allied forces who made the ultimate sacrifice at D-Day. This popular memorial is located on a hilltop overlooking the community that suffered the greatest losses per capita at D-Day. Bedford is also home of Thomas Jefferson’s remarkable architectural gem, Poplar Forest, which he designed and built over 200 years ago as his private retreat. Smith Mountain Lake also offers an array of recreational opportunities from fishing and boating to swimming and camping at the Smith Mountain Lake State Park.

During Colonial times, the Peaks of Otter were thought to be the highest mountains in America. Far from the highest peaks in the nation, they still are extremely majestic and beautiful and remain one of the favorite stops along the Blue Ridge Parkway. The historic City of Bedford is located just minutes from the Peaks with both Routes 43 South and 460 East coming right into the center of Bedford. A monument to area soldiers who fought in the War for American Independence in front of the Bedford Courthouse includes a giant boulder that was once located at the Peak of Sharp Top, one of the mountains that comprise the Peaks of Otter.