NORTHEAST OHIO
Bedford Heights Ohio
ATTRACTIONS & THINGS TO DO
1. Bedford Reservation
SCENIC NATURE PRESERVE | BEDFORD OH
Bedford Reservation is a stunning natural oasis in Northeast Ohio. This 2,200-acre park offers scenic hiking trails, picturesque waterfalls, and diverse wildlife. Visitors can enjoy outdoor activities like hiking, biking, and picnicking while immersing themselves in the beauty of Tinkers Creek Gorge, a National Natural Landmark.
2. Tinkers Creek State Nature Preserve
PROTECTED WETLANDS | BEDFORD OH
Tinkers Creek State Nature Preserve is a pristine wetland ecosystem. This 786-acre preserve features boardwalks and trails that wind through marshes, swamps, and forests. Visitors can observe diverse plant and animal species, including rare orchids and migratory birds, making it a haven for nature enthusiasts and birdwatchers.
3. Cuyahoga Valley Scenic Railroad
HISTORIC TRAIN RIDE | PENINSULA OH
Cuyahoga Valley Scenic Railroad offers a unique journey through the Cuyahoga Valley National Park. This historic train ride provides passengers with stunning views of the park's diverse landscapes, including forests, rivers, and wildlife. Special themed excursions and seasonal events make it a popular attraction for all ages.
4. Cleveland Metroparks Zoo
WILDLIFE CONSERVATION CENTER | CLEVELAND OH
Cleveland Metroparks Zoo is a world-class wildlife conservation center. Spanning 183 acres, the zoo houses over 3,000 animals from 600 species. Visitors can explore diverse habitats, including the African Elephant Crossing and Asian Highlands. Educational programs and interactive exhibits make it an engaging destination for families and animal lovers.
5. Rock and Roll Hall of Fame
MUSIC MUSEUM | CLEVELAND OH
The Rock and Roll Hall of Fame is a must-visit attraction for music enthusiasts. This iconic museum celebrates the history and cultural impact of rock and roll music. Visitors can explore extensive exhibits featuring memorabilia, interactive displays, and multimedia presentations that showcase the genre's most influential artists and moments.
6. Cleveland Museum of Art
WORLD-CLASS ART COLLECTION | CLEVELAND OH
The Cleveland Museum of Art boasts an impressive collection of over 45,000 artworks. This renowned institution features diverse exhibits spanning 6,000 years of human creativity. Visitors can explore galleries showcasing ancient artifacts, European masterpieces, and contemporary works. The museum's free admission policy makes it accessible to all art enthusiasts.
7. Great Lakes Science Center
INTERACTIVE SCIENCE MUSEUM | CLEVELAND OH
Great Lakes Science Center is an interactive museum dedicated to science and technology education. Visitors can engage with hands-on exhibits, explore a NASA Glenn Visitor Center, and enjoy live demonstrations. The center also features an IMAX Dome Theater, offering immersive educational experiences for all ages.
8. Cleveland Botanical Garden
URBAN OASIS | CLEVELAND OH
Cleveland Botanical Garden is a lush urban oasis spanning 10 acres. This horticultural gem features themed gardens, including a Japanese garden and a rose garden. Visitors can explore the Eleanor Armstrong Smith Glasshouse, which showcases exotic plants from Madagascar and Costa Rica. Educational programs and seasonal events enhance the garden experience.
9. Cleveland Metroparks
OUTDOOR RECREATION SYSTEM | CLEVELAND OH
Cleveland Metroparks is an extensive network of nature preserves and recreational areas. Known as the "Emerald Necklace," this system encompasses over 24,000 acres of parkland, 300 miles of trails, and eight lakefront parks. Visitors can enjoy activities such as hiking, biking, golfing, and fishing in these diverse natural settings.
10. West Side Market
HISTORIC PUBLIC MARKET | CLEVELAND OH
West Side Market is Cleveland's oldest public market, dating back to 1912. This bustling marketplace features over 100 vendors offering fresh produce, meats, cheeses, and ethnic specialties. Visitors can explore the historic building's distinctive architecture while sampling diverse culinary delights and experiencing the vibrant local food culture.
Bedford Heights Attractions
THINGS TO DO IN BEDFORD HEIGHTS
Bedford Heights, Ohio, may be a small suburb, but it offers visitors a range of attractions and activities to enjoy. While the city itself doesn't have many major tourist destinations, its proximity to natural areas and larger metropolitan centers provides easy access to diverse experiences.
One of the main draws near Bedford Heights is the Bedford Reservation, part of the Cleveland Metroparks system. This expansive park offers scenic hiking trails, picturesque waterfalls, and opportunities for outdoor recreation. Nature enthusiasts can explore Tinkers Creek Gorge, a National Natural Landmark, and enjoy activities like hiking, biking, and picnicking.
For those interested in history and culture, nearby Cleveland offers world-class attractions such as the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame and the Cleveland Museum of Art. These institutions provide immersive experiences in music history and fine arts, respectively. Additionally, the Great Lakes Science Center and Cleveland Metroparks Zoo offer educational and entertaining options for families and science enthusiasts.
While Bedford Heights itself may not be a major tourist destination, its location in Northeast Ohio allows visitors to enjoy a mix of natural beauty, cultural experiences, and urban amenities. Whether exploring local parks or venturing into nearby Cleveland, there are plenty of options to create a memorable visit to the area.