I've Lived in Virginia for 23+ Years—and This Small Town Is One of My Favorite Hidden Gems

Travel + Leisure

4 hours ago

Hiking the Peaks of Otter is a true Virginia treasure. It offers some of the most dramatic views in the state.
Driving the Blue Ridge Parkway is a fantastic way to take in mountain views, enjoy the winding roads, and stop at overlooks and trails along the way.
Perched beside Abbott Lake and surrounded by mountain scenery, the Peaks of Otter Lodge offers unmatched access to the Peaks of Otter trails.
History comes to life at the moving and meticulously designed National D-Day Memorial, which honors the lives of those who participated in the D-Day invasion of Normandy.
Set in a beautifully restored former train station, Liberty Station serves up a menu of elevated American classics with a Southern twist.
As someone who has lived in Virginia for more than 23 years and visited all 50 U.S. states, I keep coming back to Bedford. Despite my travels—and even stints living in other states—there's something timeless and grounding about this town. From its stunning hiking trails and historical landmarks to its cozy restaurants and mountain views, Bedford has quietly become one of my favorite hidden gems in Virginia.
If you love hiking, diving into history, or are just seeking for a peaceful getaway with great local food, you'll find plenty of reasons to fall in love with Bedford, too. A lounge area inside th Peaks of Otter Lodge.
Surrounded by nature and located right off the Blue Ridge Parkway at milepost 86, Peaks of Otter Lodge is ideal for hikers and anyone craving a peaceful mountain escape. Visitors can expect lakefront views, on-site dining for breakfast, lunch, and dinner, and access to scenic trails.
For a more rustic escape, Graham Ordinary is a historic mountain lodge in the picturesque countryside nearby. The King Suites are thoughtfully styled to reflect the property's cozy, mountain charm, and the quiet setting creates a true sense of retreat. For those wanting to fully immerse themselves in nature, the lodge also features several campsite options.
A charming bed-and-breakfast in the heart of Bedford, this lovingly restored property offers one cozy room, personal touches, a large front porch, and a tasty breakfast. Visitors observe the The National D-Day Memorial.
The Peaks of Otter will always be my favorite hiking spot in Virginia. I've explored its trails more times than I can count and in every season—and it never loses its magic. Whether you're hiking Sharp Top, Flat Top, or Harkening Hill, there's a trail for every experience level.
For me, it's about more than just the views. It's where my husband and I went on our first date, and a year later, it's where he proposed. I love returning to relive those memories and soak in the panoramic views of Virginia's countryside.
Winding through the mountains just outside town, the Blue Ridge Parkway is one of the most scenic drives in the U.S. With its countless overlooks, peaceful picnic spots, and picture-perfect photo ops, this route offers jaw-dropping views year-round.
Smith Mountain Lake, just a 35-minute drive from Bedford, is well worth the trip. Often called the Lake Tahoe of the East, it's stunning and packed with activities. Nicole Johnson, director of tourism at Destination Bedford, highlighted that there are endless ways to experience this beautiful destination, whether it's fishing, renting a boat for a day on the water, or hiking and camping.
With Bedford suffering the highest per-capita D-Day losses in the nation, the town holds a deep connection to World War II history. The powerful outdoor memorial honors the sacrifices of D-Day soldiers through moving sculptures, informative displays, and peaceful gardens. It's both educational and emotional—an essential visit for history lovers and anyone wanting to understand Bedford's story on a deeper level.
Johnson suggests starting at the National D-Day Memorial, then visiting the Bedford Boys Tribute Center. She explained it's a meaningful way to learn about the personal stories of these men and the sacrifices they made for the community. 'The Tribute Center features many of their personal belongings and is located in Bedford's historic downtown,' she shared.
At different times of the year, you can pick apples, berries, or peaches at local orchards in Bedford. Johnson's Orchards and Gross Orchard are fantastic places to not only pick your own fruit, but also purchase fresh, local produce.
Start your morning at Bridge Street Cafe, where locals love the bagels, breakfast sandwiches, and tasty lattes.
Perfect for lunch, this charming sandwich shop is a hit, thanks to its flavorful bánh mì, falafel, and irresistible pies. It's a casual spot with standout options.
A Bedford staple and local favorite, Liberty Station is known for its upscale country fare. Signature dishes include prime rib, crab dip, and French onion soup. It's a must-visit for a hearty, flavorful meal. View of mountains from Peaks of Otter Lodge.
While you can't go wrong with a visit to Bedford during any season. Johnson, said, 'Spring is a beautiful time to visit, with everything in bloom and vibrant shades of green spreading across the landscape. The colorful scenery set against the Peaks of Otter makes for a stunning backdrop. Late April through June is an ideal time to experience it, before the busier summer and fall seasons.' A family stops at a lookout along the Blue Ridge Parkway.
The nearest airport to Bedford is Lynchburg Regional Airport (LYH), located about 25 minutes away. For more flight options, Roanoke-Blacksburg Regional Airport (ROA) is another convenient choice, just 40 minutes from town. If you're flying into the area, plan to rent a car. Bedford's small-town charm and surrounding sights are best explored by driving.
The best way to explore Bedford is by car. While the downtown area is walkable, many of the best hiking trails, restaurants, and scenic spots require a drive. Ride-shares, like Uber and Lyft, are available, but very limited.