NORTHEAST OHIO
Bedford Ohio
ATTRACTIONS & THINGS TO DO
1. Bedford Reservation
SCENIC NATURE PRESERVE | BEDFORD OH
Bedford Reservation is a picturesque 2,200-acre park known for its stunning natural beauty. This Cleveland Metroparks gem offers visitors a diverse array of outdoor activities, including hiking trails, picnic areas, and fishing spots. The park's centerpiece is Tinkers Creek Gorge, a National Natural Landmark featuring dramatic waterfalls and unique geological formations.
2. Tinkers Creek State Nature Preserve
PROTECTED WETLAND AREA | BEDFORD OH
Tinkers Creek State Nature Preserve is a 786-acre protected wetland area that showcases Ohio's diverse ecosystems. Visitors can explore boardwalks and trails winding through swamp forests, marshes, and upland forests. The preserve is a haven for wildlife enthusiasts and birdwatchers, offering opportunities to spot various species in their natural habitats.
3. Great Falls of Tinkers Creek
SCENIC WATERFALL | BEDFORD OH
The Great Falls of Tinkers Creek is a stunning natural attraction within Bedford Reservation. This impressive 15-foot waterfall cascades over a sandstone ledge, creating a picturesque scene that draws visitors year-round. The falls are accessible via a short hiking trail, offering breathtaking views and excellent photo opportunities of the surrounding gorge.
4. Bedford Historical Society & Museum
LOCAL HISTORY MUSEUM | BEDFORD OH
The Bedford Historical Society & Museum preserves and showcases the rich history of Bedford and its surrounding areas. Housed in a historic building, the museum features exhibits on local Native American history, early settlers, and the town's development. Visitors can explore artifacts, photographs, and documents that bring Bedford's past to life.
5. Ellenwood Recreation Center
COMMUNITY RECREATION FACILITY | BEDFORD OH
Ellenwood Recreation Center is a modern community facility offering a wide range of recreational activities for Bedford residents and visitors. The center features an indoor pool, fitness center, gymnasium, and various sports courts. It also hosts community events, classes, and programs for all ages, making it a popular gathering place for locals.
6. Bedford Reservation Bike & Bridle Trail
MULTI-USE TRAIL | BEDFORD OH
The Bedford Reservation Bike & Bridle Trail is a popular multi-use path that winds through the scenic Bedford Reservation. This 6.2-mile trail offers a mix of paved and unpaved sections, catering to cyclists, hikers, and horseback riders. The trail showcases the park's diverse landscapes, including forests, meadows, and scenic overlooks.
7. Cuyahoga Valley Scenic Railroad
SCENIC TRAIN RIDE | PENINSULA OH
The Cuyahoga Valley Scenic Railroad offers a unique way to explore the beautiful Cuyahoga Valley National Park. While not in Bedford, this nearby attraction provides scenic train rides through the park's diverse landscapes. Passengers can enjoy views of the Cuyahoga River, forests, and historic sites while learning about the area's rich history and natural beauty.
8. Bedford Downtown Historic District
HISTORIC AREA | BEDFORD OH
The Bedford Downtown Historic District showcases the town's rich architectural heritage. This charming area features well-preserved buildings from the late 19th and early 20th centuries, including examples of Italianate, Queen Anne, and Colonial Revival styles. Visitors can take a self-guided walking tour to admire the historic structures and learn about Bedford's past.
9. Southeast Branch YMCA
COMMUNITY FITNESS CENTER | BEDFORD OH
The Southeast Branch YMCA is a comprehensive fitness and community center serving Bedford and surrounding areas. This modern facility offers a wide range of amenities, including a swimming pool, fitness equipment, group exercise classes, and youth programs. The YMCA also hosts community events and provides various services to promote health and wellness for all ages.
10. Bedford Glens
SCENIC HIKING AREA | BEDFORD OH
Bedford Glens is a picturesque natural area within the Bedford Reservation, known for its stunning rock formations and lush forests. This scenic spot features hiking trails that wind through the glen, offering visitors breathtaking views of cascading waterfalls, towering cliffs, and diverse plant life. It's a popular destination for nature enthusiasts and photographers alike.
Bedford Attractions
THINGS TO DO IN BEDFORD
Bedford, Ohio, is a charming city known for its natural beauty and outdoor recreational opportunities. The city's crown jewel is the Bedford Reservation, part of the Cleveland Metroparks system, which offers visitors a diverse array of activities and scenic landscapes to explore.
At the heart of Bedford's attractions is the stunning Tinkers Creek Gorge, a National Natural Landmark within the Bedford Reservation. This geological wonder features dramatic waterfalls, unique rock formations, and lush forests, making it a popular destination for hikers, nature enthusiasts, and photographers.
For those interested in local history, the Bedford Historical Society & Museum provides a fascinating glimpse into the city's past. The museum showcases artifacts and exhibits that tell the story of Bedford's development from its early days to the present.
Outdoor enthusiasts will find plenty to enjoy in Bedford, from the scenic Bike & Bridle Trail to the picturesque Bedford Glens. These natural areas offer opportunities for hiking, cycling, and wildlife observation, allowing visitors to immerse themselves in the beauty of Northeast Ohio's landscapes.