A law officially designated the National D-Day Memorial as the United States’ national memorial to D-Day. This tribute adds a striking historical dimension, but Bedford County offers other perspectives on history, architecture, and landscape.
History from Multiple Perspectives
Poplar Forest was Thomas Jefferson’s personal retreat and is designated a National Historic Landmark. Avenel was begun in 1835 for Frances Steptoe Burwell and William M. Burwell and combines Federal-style elements with Greek Revival. Together, these historic themes range from a retreat and a building with named architectural influences to national remembrance.
The permanent exhibits at the Bedford Museum & Genealogical Library cover the history of Bedford and Bedford County. They include the history of Indigenous and Black populations, as well as World War I and World War II. Visitors looking to place different historical topics in context will find both local and regional history and coverage of wartime periods here.
Trails and Outdoor Experiences
New London Tech Trails offers 6.5 miles of multi-use trails across more than 500 acres for hiking, trail running, and mountain biking. Falling Creek Park has extensive trails for runners and cyclists, as well as a 36-hole disc golf course. Falling Creek Bike Park was specifically designed and built for mountain bikers and BMX riders. These offerings each provide a different way to spend time outdoors, from multi-use trails and a dedicated bike park to disc golf.
The 1.5-mile trail to Sharp Top winds through the forests of Sharp Top Mountain, climbs more than 1,300 feet in elevation, and leads to spectacular 360-degree panoramic views. Montvale Park has more than 7 miles of fully wooded singletrack trails. Moneta Park has a trail network for walkers, hikers, and mountain bikers.
Independence Park has two large fishing ponds. Claytor Nature Center offers a different landscape, with streams, forested areas, wetlands, and the Big Otter River. The habitats near the river are home to beavers, otters, and fish-eating birds. Alongside trails and outdoor activities, waterways and habitats are also distinct nature-focused attractions.
Local Products and Experiences
Bedford County has four farmers’ markets. They offer locally grown fruit and vegetables, meat, and handmade goods directly from farmers and producers. Market dates vary by season; check the schedule before your trip.
Peaks of Otter Winery offers a tasting of eight wines. Visitors can also visit the farm animals; feed is available at the checkout counter. Tasting details and prices may change, and visitor offerings should be confirmed before your trip. Be sure to check these details before your visit.
At historic Johnson Farm, visitors can play games, help with gardening, and enjoy nature from a porch. Along with the markets and winery, it offers further insight into attractions that differ from the area’s historical and scenic discoveries.
Explore more destinations: Montvale, Forest, Goode, Bedford, Moneta, Amherst County, Henrico, Giles County.
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