Blake Walsh

20 Best Things to Do in Bedford, NH

  • Published 2023/02/10

A small town in Hillsborough County, New Hampshire, Bedford holds many secrets that not many people know about.

If you are on the lookout for a new place to visit for your next vacation, Bedford might surprise you in different ways.

Being a suburb of Manchester, Bedford is at once both connected to the urban life and isolated from it.

The history of Bedford goes back to 1733 when it was known as Narragansett, No. 5, and housed soldiers fighting against the native Narragansett tribe.

While it is not the most touristy place in New Hampshire by far, Bedford is for those who want a quiet getaway from the cacophony of city life.

Today we bring to you the only list of things to do in Bedford that you will ever need.

Let’s find out more about what Bedford has in store for us.

Witness the Architectural Marvel of the Zimmerman House

Exterior of the Zimmerman house

Wangkun Jia / Shutterstock.com

Frank Lloyd Wright is one of the most notable architects in American history who has designed more than 1,000 buildings across the United States.

It is one of the very few Wright designs remaining in the northeastern part of the United States.

Presently, the Currier Museum of Art owns and manages the house.

Glass doors of the Zimmerman house

Wangkun Jia / Shutterstock.com

Frank Llyod Wright and his wife decided to donate the building to the public after their death.

Taking a guided tour of the museum is the only way to access the museum and witness the architectural marvel that has gone into it.

Located at 223 Heather St., this house demonstrates the best of the Prairie School of architecture.

Glass windows of the Zimmerman house

Daderot, CC0, via Wikimedia Commons

Have Fun with Science at the SEE Science Center

Even if you do not like science in school, the SEE Science Center will make sure that you have a great time there.

The science education and infotainment center is aimed at both adults and kids, making it perfect for a family visit.

Apart from the science events and camps, there is an exhibition center, a shop, and a lot more to check out.

Admission is open from Tuesday to Friday from 10 am to 4 pm and on Saturdays and Sundays from 10 am to 5 pm.

Located at 200 Bedford Street, this is one of the places that kids and adults enjoy alike.

Play and Hike at the Livingston Park

There are many parks in and around Bedford, Livingston Park being one of the most popular among them.

The park is frequented by hikers, cyclists, runners, athletes, and children and adults of all ages.

The amenities in this park include a baseball field, a soccer field, a swimming pool, and the Dorr’s Pond for fishing and ice skating according to the season.

If you want to spend a day hiking through the trails or playing your favorite sports, Livingston park will be the perfect place for you.

Located at Daniel Webster Highway, do not miss this beautiful and quaint park when in Bedford.

Explore the Artist in You with Canvas Roadshow

Canvas Roadshow is one of the most promising exports from Belford in the recent past.

It is a young organization for painters, artists, and other creatives.

If you have a painter or an artist hidden inside you, let it loose at the Canvas Roadshow.

They host workshops, painting classes, competitions, exhibitions, and a lot more.

One of the most interesting things you can do here is to make your own art piece from a solid wooden block with the help of the experts from Canvas Roadshow.

Canvas Roadshow is situated at South River Road, Bedford, and is a must-visit for all art enthusiasts and budding artists.

Eat Authentic Tavern Food at the River Road Tavern

It is only obvious that you would want a nice place to eat no matter where you go, and in Bedford, River Road Tavern makes sure no one leaves without a good meal.

This place is known for its authentic tavern cuisine, craft beers, and top-notch service.

The menu of River Road Tavern is a reflection of the heritage and genius of tavern food, and it is among the best food you can get in Bedford.

Apart from the food, they have a wide collection of beer and wine.

If you are looking for a complete gastronomic experience in Bedford, no place is better than the River Road Tavern.

It is located at 193 South River Road, Bedford, and is open from 11 am every day.

Shop at the Bedford Mall

While Bedford is not the best shopping destination in New Hampshire, the Bedford Mall offers great variety, quality, and service to its customers.

If you are someone who likes to bring a piece of a place back home, you must visit Bedford Mall.

The Bedford Mall is not just a shopping mall but the social hotspot of the suburb.

It has everything that you can ask for, be it an awesome dining experience or fun events with the community.

The people of Bedford are heavily reliant on the Bedford Mall, and it stays quite busy at all times.

Located at 1658 Bedford Highway, the place is open from 9:30 am to 9 pm on weekdays, 9:30 am to 6 pm on Saturdays, and 9:30 am to 5 pm on Sundays.

Go Wine Tasting at the New Hampshire Liquor & Wine Outlet

Wine tasting is a passion for many people, and if you share the same passion, you cannot leave Bedford without visiting the Bedford outlet of New Hampshire Liquor & Wine.

It houses the best collection of alcoholic beverages, hard liquor, wine, and beer in Bedford.

You can try out some of the best local wines or take a bottle or two as a souvenir.

Anyone who likes to taste and know about different alcoholic drinks must visit this place.

The best thing about this outlet is the team running the place with their skill, expertise, and hospitality.

You can visit the New Hampshire Liquor and Wine shop at 9 Leavy Dr. Bedford.

Unwind at The Spa Within

The Spa Within is one of the best spas in New Hampshire and is only a short drive from Bedford at 700 Elm Street.

It offers a complete range of therapeutic and relaxing practices that include hair design, massage, facial therapies, hands & feet treatment, hair removal, and a lot more.

It is the best place to relax and unwind in Bedford.

The Spa Within has a beautiful decor and relaxing ambiance coupled with expert service providers and masseuses.

It remains open from 10 am to 5 pm on Mondays and Fridays, 10 am to 8 pm on Tuesdays, Wednesdays, and Thursdays, and from 10 am to 2 pm on Saturdays.

It remains closed on Sundays.

If you want a premium spa experience, visit The Spa Within the next time you are in Bedford.

Go on a Picnic at Benedictine Park

Bring your outdoor excursion to new heights with Benedictine Park.

Unlike your usual park, this one specializes in marked trails and wide-open fields.

It spans 28 acres—an ideal space for you to explore what nature has in store for you.

Many also come to this park to go on picnics or relax by the grass and take in the stunning foliage views.

It contains two trails, Perimeter and Cobb Trails, which run along woodland landscapes and Riddle Creek.

During the winter season, the place is ideal for winter sledding.

Benedictine Park is on Wallace Road.

Watch Out for Birds at Bedford Heritage Trail

Whether you’re a hiking expert or just starting out, you don’t want to miss Bedford Heritage Trail while visiting the town.

This trail is a part of the Heritage Trail System of New Hampshire.

It runs parallel to the Merrimack River and features various footbridges along its route.

It also connects Moore’s Crossing Road to Eagle Park.

Bedford Heritage Trail’s wooded areas are ideal spots to watch and study birds, so be sure to bring your binoculars on your visit.

Don’t come by during the winter season, though!

The trail is closed during this time in preparation for the eagles nesting within the area.

Study the Diverse Habitats at Pulpit Rock Conservation Area

Pulpit Rock Conservation Area also goes by the nickname “Bedford’s Natural Treasure”.

This 338-acre preserve is home to Pulpit Rock gorge and several mini waterfalls.

This is why the site is a go-to spot for some wildlife exploration and varied terrain hiking.

Alongside jagged rock outcroppings, the site also contains a blend of heritage trees, including hemlock and hardwood, as well as what looks to be remnants of Gage’s Mill.

Get your daily dose of nature exhibits at Pulpit Rock Conservation Area on New Boston Road.

Browse through Historical Artifacts at the Bedford Historical Museum

Along North Amherst Road, Bedford Historical Museum stands as a portal to Bedford’s interesting past.

It resides within the Schoolhouse #7 building, which is also the oldest infrastructure in the town.

Kendall Shop Museum, sitting adjacent to it, is also managed by the organization and offers significant artifacts from history.

Browse through glass and wall displays of equipment, documents, furniture, and more.

Bedford Historical Museum also hosts several community events that you can join!

So, be sure to add this place to your itinerary.

Meet the Farm Animals at the Educational Farm At Joppa Hill

For your little one’s one-of-a-kind farm adventure, the Educational Farm At Joppa Hill has something special to offer you and your kids.

Sitting on 35 acres of farmland, this site opened in 2004.

What once was a dairy farm, this place has now become the home to many barn animals, including bunnies, alpacas, and cows.

Its programs include summer camps and agricultural fairs.

Bring your little one to meet the animals, cool off by the pond, and even explore the trails offered by the site.

The Educational Farm At Joppa Hill is open year-round and free for everyone to visit!

You can find this farm on Joppa Hill Road.

Other Things to Do Nearby

Enjoy a Minor League Baseball Game at the Northeast Delta Dental Stadium

Exterior of the Northeast Delta Dental Stadium

Wangkun Jia / Shutterstock.com

If you are a fan of baseball or sports in general, do not miss the small yet beautiful Northeast Delta Dental Stadium when in Bedford.

It is the home ground of New Hampshire Fisher Cats, a successful Minor League Baseball team.

Press box in Northeast Delta Dental Stadium

Waz8, CC0, via Wikimedia Commons

While minor leagues are less grand than major leagues, there is a different level of excitement in being a part of the local crowd.

The stadium seats around 6,500 people and saw its first major concert when Bob Dylan performed here in 2007.

Located at One Line Drive, Manchester, the stadium is only a small drive away from the heart of Bedford.

Aerial view of Northeast Delta Dental Stadium

Wangkun Jia / Shutterstock.com

Take the Kids to Mel’s Funway Park LLC

If you are in the mood for fun, Mel’s Funway Park will take care of all your needs.

Aimed at preteen children, you should not miss this park if you are traveling to Bedford with kids.

From go-karting to water sports to batting cages, Mel’s Funway Park has more than you can ask for from a children’s park.

The place is also available for private parties like birthdays and for corporate events, for which you would require a prior confirmation from the authorities.

Mel’s Funway Park generally opens at 1 pm and closes at 7 pm on Saturdays and Sundays, but you should visit their Facebook page to check for any changes in schedule.

Located at 454 Charles Bancroft Hwy, you should not miss this place if you have kids along.

Enjoy Fine Chinese Food at the North Garden Chinese Restaurant and Lounge

If you are a fan of fine dining, do not miss the amazing food and ambiance of the North Garden Chinese Restaurant and Lounge.

Apart from the food, the lounge with a fully stocked 30-foot bar, multiple flat-screen TVs, and a jukebox will impress you.

It is also a popular event destination for both private and corporate events.

In terms of the food, they have some of the best Chinese dishes you can have anywhere in New Hampshire.

Located at 715 Mast Road, a short drive from Bedford to the North Garden Chinese Restaurant and Lounge will be very rewarding.

Have Fun with Friends and Family at Granite State Escape

Who doesn’t love a classic maze where you lose your way only to find it back again?

If the idea of mazes and puzzles excites you, do not miss the Granite Escape the next time you are at Bedford.

The place offers 60-minute sessions to each group where they have to find their way out of the maze by solving different challenges and puzzles.

Five to six people can become a team, and there is a choice in difficulty levels as well.

Located at 795 Elm Street, you can book your slot from the official Granite State Escape website.

Learn about Local History at Manchester Historic Association’s Millyard Museum

Those keen on learning about the local history must pay a visit to the Manchester Historic Association’s Millyard Museum.

The museum preserves the long history of the area, which goes back to more than 11,000 years ago when the native inhabitants of the region would fish at the Amoskeag Falls.

It is located in a building adjacent to the Amoskeag Manufacturing Company, one of the most important textile manufacturing units in American history.

Many immigrants found a new life in the Amoskeag Manufacturing Company in the 20th century when textile manufacturing was booming globally.

The museum is open from 10:00 a.m. to 4:00 p.m from Tuesday to Saturday.

Located at 200 Bedford Street, you should not miss this place on your trip to Bedford.

Test Your Shooting Skills at the Manchester Firing Line

Not everyone feels comfortable with guns, and this is not something you should feel compelled to do.

But if you have been a shooter and keep or use firearms, you can have a great time at the Manchester Fire Line.

It hosts shooting classes, events, educational workshops, and a lot more.

Apart from a state-of-the-art shooting range, they also sell high-quality firearms.

They also offer custom gunsmith services, which is a dream come true for many gun enthusiasts.

Located at 2540 Brown Ave, this is a good place to check out if you have an interest in guns.

Get the Complete Wine Experience at LaBelle Winery

If you are looking for something more than a wine shop, you need to check out the award-winning LaBelle Winery.

It is among the best wineries in New Hampshire and offers a complete experience taking you through the cultivation of crops to the distillation of wines.

Apart from various wine tasting events, this place also serves food that complements the taste and texture of the wines.

This place also hosts live music events where you can enjoy music while sipping wine.

Located at 345 NH-101, Amherst, it is worth the short drive from Bedford.

Final Thoughts

We hope our guide to things to do in Bedford will encourage you to visit this town the next time you have the opportunity.

With so many things to do and see, there is no room for boredom on your next trip to Bedford.

The more time you spend there, the better things seem to get.

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