Bedford Travel Guide

Explore the cultural and natural attractions of Bedford, New Hampshire, along with information on local food and drink, where to stay, and transportation options.


Introduction to Bedford

Bedford is a quaint town located in Merrimack Valley, New Hampshire. This town is surrounded by beautiful natural landscapes and rich cultural heritage sites, making it a perfect destination for nature lovers and history buffs alike.

List of Places to Visit in Bedford

Culturally Important Attractions: Museums and Historical Places

  • Bedford Historical Society Museum: This museum showcases the town’s fascinating history through various artifacts and exhibits. Visitors can also take guided tours to learn more about the town’s bygone era.

  • Old Bedford Town Common: This historical landmark is located at the heart of Bedford and consists of a park, several historic buildings and memorials. It’s a beautiful spot to relax and learn about the history of the town.

  • Meetinghouse Museum: This museum features the Meeting House, which is a historic building built in 1800 and added to the National Register of Historic Places in 1978.

Natural Attractions of Bedford: Outdoor Adventures and Scenic Views

  • Salem Bike-Ped Corridor: This 4.5-mile trail located in nearby Salem is perfect for biking and hiking. The trail is surrounded by natural landscapes, making it a perfect destination for nature lovers.

  • Benny’s Bog Conservation Area: This conservation area features a 1-mile trail and is home to a diverse range of plants and wildlife.

  • Pulpit Rock Conservation Area: This 338-acre area is home to several trails, ponds, and wetlands, making it a great place to spot various plants and animals.

Hiking/Biking Routes of Bedford

  • Rail Trail: This 2.3-mile trail is perfect for biking and walking visitors. It features scenic views of the town and its surrounding areas.

  • North South Trail: This 14.7-mile trail starts in Rochelle and ends in Hillsborough, and passes through several scenic areas.

  • Wasserman Park Trail: This 5-mile trail is located in the heart of Bedford and offers beautiful views of the natural landscapes that surround the area.

Best Things to Do in Bedford: Activities and Tours

  • Take a guided tour of the Bedford Historical Society Museum or the Meeting House Museum.

  • Attend one of the town’s annual festivals and events, such as the Farmers Market, the Christmas Tree Lighting, and the 4th of July Celebration.

  • Visit the town’s historic sites and landmarks, such as the Old Bedford Town Common and the Bedford Flag.

Week-Long Itinerary for Bedford

Day Activities
Day 1 Visit the Bedford Historical Society Museum and the trails
Day 2 Visit the Old Bedford Town Common
Day 3 Take a guided tour of the Meetinghouse Museum
Day 4 Explore the scenic views at Pulpit Rock Conservation Area
Day 5 Ride or walk on the Rail Trail or Wasserman Park Trail
Day 6-7 Attend the local festivals and events

Food and Drink Scene of Bedford

Must-Try Dishes

  • Maple Syrup: This local delicacy can be found in several dishes and products, such as pancakes, cookies, and candies.

  • Apple cider donuts: Made using locally sourced apples, these donuts are a perfect treat after a day of exploring.

Local Beverages

  • Maple Syrup Mimosa: A unique twist on the classic Mimosa, this drink uses fresh maple syrup instead of orange juice.

  • Apple Cider: Made using local apples, this refreshing drink is perfect for hot summer days.

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

  • Bedford Village Inn: This luxurious inn features several suites and private rooms, along with an on-site spa and restaurant.

  • Country Inn & Suites by Radisson: This comfortable hotel is located a few miles from the town center and offers several amenities.

  • Ashworth by the Sea: This historic hotel is located on the coast of New Hampshire and offers beautiful views of the ocean.

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

  • Maple Syrup: This locally produced syrup makes for a perfect gift to bring back home.

  • Apple cider donuts: These locally made donuts make for a perfect snack and souvenir.

Local Culture and Customs of Bedford

  • Bedford is a town that values its history and heritage. Visitors are encouraged to respect the local customs and traditions and appreciate the town’s rich culture and diversity.

Best Time to Visit Bedford

  • The best time to visit Bedford is during the summer months (June-August). The weather is perfect for outdoor activities, and several festivals and events take place during this time.

Do’s and Don’ts of Bedford

Do:

  • Respect local customs and traditions.
  • Take care of the natural landscapes and wildlife.
  • Try the local dishes and drinks.

Don’t:

  • Litter or harm the environment.
  • Disrespect the locals or their beliefs.

Safety and Health

Safety in Bedford

  • Bedford is a safe town overall. Visitors should take the usual precautions when exploring the town, such as staying in well-lit areas at night and keeping their belongings close to them.

Health in Bedford

  • Healthcare facilities and hospitals are easily accessible from Bedford. Visitors should ensure they have travel insurance before visiting.

Getting to Bedford: Transportation Options and Logistics

Airports Near Bedford

  • Manchester-Boston Regional Airport: Located 6.5 miles from the town center, this airport is the closest one to Bedford.

  • Boston Logan International Airport: Located 53 miles from Bedford, this airport is a major international airport with several transport options.

Bus Stations Near Bedford

  • Boston Express Nashua: This bus station is located 6 miles from Bedford and offers services to several towns and cities in New Hampshire and Massachusetts.

  • Concord Coach Lines: This coach line is located 12 miles from Bedford and offers services to several towns and cities in New Hampshire.

Other Options

  • Car rental services: Several car rental services are available at the airports and in the town center.

How to Get Around in Bedford

  • Getting around Bedford is easy using public transportation, including buses and taxis.

Where to Go Next from Bedford: Nearby Destinations and Excursions

  • Manchester: Located just 5 miles from Bedford, Manchester is a historic city with several attractions and landmarks.

  • Nashua: Located 12 miles from Bedford, Nashua is another historic town with several cultural and natural attractions.

Conclusion

Bedford is a charming town that offers a unique mix of natural landscapes, cultural attractions, and delicious food and drink. Visitors to Bedford are sure to have an enjoyable and memorable experience, taking in all that this town has to offer.