Bedford Travel Guide

Explore the culturally rich and outdoor adventure-packed town of Bedford, Massachusetts with this comprehensive tour guide. Discover the top things to do, where to stay, what to eat, and much more.


Introduction to Bedford

Bedford, a small town located in the MetroWest region of Eastern Massachusetts, offers a perfect blend of natural beauty and cultural richness. From its historical attractions and scenic views to outdoor activities and local cuisine, Bedford has something to offer for everyone.

In this comprehensive tour guide, we’ll take you through the top places to visit, things to do, where to stay, what to eat, and much more. So, let’s get started!

List of Places to Visit in Bedford

Culturally Important Attractions: Museums and Historical Places

Bedford Flag and Pole

Considered the oldest known flag to have been used by American troops in battle, the Bedford Flag is a historic artifact that dates back to the Revolutionary War. The flag is housed in the Bedford Free Public Library and is definitely worth a visit.

The Job Lane House

Built in 1713, this historical house offers a glimpse into the life of the colonial era. The house is open for tours during the summer.

Natural Attractions of Bedford: Outdoor Adventures and Scenic Views

Minuteman Bikeway

The Minuteman Bikeway is a scenic bike trail that stretches 11 miles and connects Bedford to Arlington, Lexington, and Cambridge. The trail is perfect for cycling, walking, or jogging while enjoying the natural beauty of the town.

Fawn Lake

Nestled amidst picturesque woods, Fawn Lake is an ideal destination for fishing, kayaking, and picnicking.

Hiking/Biking Routes of Bedford

The Narrow Gauge Rail Trail

This 3.7-mile trail offers breathtaking views of the Concord River and is perfect for hiking, biking, and cross-country skiing.

The Reformatory Branch Trail

This scenic 2.8-mile trail is perfect for hiking and biking and offers stunning views of Great Meadows National Wildlife Refuge.

Best Things to Do in Bedford: Activities and Tours

Kayaking on the Concord River

Rent a kayak and paddle down the scenic Concord River while enjoying the breathtaking views of the town’s natural beauty.

SkyRide at the Ski Ward

Experience the thrill of a lifetime by taking a scenic lift ride over the Ski Ward and enjoying the panoramic views of the town from a higher altitude.

Week-Long Itinerary for Bedford

Day 1: Visit the Bedford Flag and Pole, take a stroll through the historic district, and enjoy a meal at the Bedford Village Inn.

Day 2: Rent a kayak and spend the day kayaking down the Concord River.

Day 3: Hike or bike along the Narrow Gauge Rail Trail and enjoy the stunning views of the Concord River.

Day 4: Take a tour of The Job Lane House and other historical sites in the town.

Day 5: Spend the day exploring the Minuteman Bikeway and end the day with a meal at Trail’s End Café.

Day 6: Take the SkyRide at the Ski Ward and enjoy the panoramic views of the town.

Day 7: Spend the day at Fawn Lake picnicking, fishing or kayaking.

Food and Drink Scene of Bedford

Must-Try Dishes

Bedford Lobster Roll

Filled with fresh lobster meat, this roll is a prized delicacy of Bedford.

Minuteman Burger

This juicy burger is made from locally sourced beef and is sure to satisfy your taste buds.

Local Beverages

Bedford Brewing Company

This local brewery offers a wide array of locally brewed beers. Head over for a pint or two and enjoy the friendly ambiance of this cozy spot.

Where to Stay in Bedford: Hotels, Hostels, and Guesthouses

Bedford Village Inn

This upscale hotel offers luxurious rooms, award-winning dining, and stunning views of the town’s natural beauty.

DoubleTree by Hilton Hotel Boston – Bedford Glen

This hotel provides an ideal option for business travelers and leisure guests, offering great amenities, comfortable rooms, and a welcoming ambiance.

What to Buy in Bedford: Souvenirs and Local Products to Bring Home

Various Shops at Bedford Marketplace

Head over to Bedford Marketplace and browse through various shops selling handcrafted items and local souvenirs.

Local Culture and Customs of Bedford

Bedford prides itself on its rich colonial history and the town’s locals are united by their love for their town’s natural beauty and its historical landmarks.

Best Time to Visit Bedford

The best time to visit Bedford is during the fall season when the town’s natural beauty is at its peak and the temperature is perfect for outdoor activities.

Do’s and Don’ts of Bedford

Do:

  • Explore the town’s colonial history and visit historical landmarks.
  • Take advantage of the town’s natural beauty and explore its outdoor attractions.
  • Try the delicious locally brewed beers.

Don’t:

  • Litter or damage the town’s natural beauty.
  • Ignore the town’s Colonial history.

Safety and Health

Safety in Bedford

Bedford is a safe town, however, it’s always recommended to take general precautions while exploring the town’s outdoor attractions.

Health in Bedford

Bedford offers some of the best medical facilities in the state, and tourists can rest assured that they will receive quality healthcare services in case of emergencies.

Getting to Bedford: Transportation Options and Logistics

Airports Near Bedford

  • Logan International Airport (BOS) - 20 miles from Bedford.

Bus Stations Near Bedford

  • Concord Coach Lines, Boston Express, and Greyhound Lines have bus services to nearby cities.

Other Options

  • Visitors can rent a car and drive to Bedford from Boston or any nearby city.

How to Get Around in Bedford

Bedford is a small town, and visitors can easily walk or bike around to explore its attractions. There are also several car rental services available for those who prefer to drive.

Where to Go Next from Bedford: Nearby Destinations and Excursions

  • Boston, MA – Approximately 20 miles from Bedford, head over to Boston and explore the city’s historic landmarks and thriving food scene.

  • Cape Cod, MA – Take a scenic 2-hour drive from Bedford and explore the stunning beaches of Cape Cod.

Conclusion

Bedford offers a perfect blend of history, natural beauty, and outdoor excitement. With this comprehensive tour guide, tourists can explore the town’s historical landmarks, scenic views, local cuisine, and much more. Explore Bedford and experience all that this quaint town has to offer!