Located just 5 minutes from DFW International Airport, Bedford, Texas serves as the perfect launching pad for exploring the Dallas-Fort Worth Metroplex. This charming city of approximately 50,000 residents might be small in size, but it offers an impressive variety of activities and attractions that make it worth a visit. Whether you’re looking for outdoor adventures, cultural experiences, or family-friendly fun, Bedford delivers with its unique blend of small-town charm and big-city convenience.
Getting to Bedford & Planning Your Journey
Bedford is ideally situated in the heart of the Dallas-Fort Worth Metroplex, making it easily accessible by various transportation methods.
By Air
The most convenient way to reach Bedford is through Dallas/Fort Worth International Airport (DFW), which is just a 5-minute drive away. This major hub offers flights from all major airlines and destinations worldwide. Once you land, you can easily reach Bedford via rental car, taxi, or rideshare services.
Ready to Book Your Flight?
Find the best deals on flights to DFW International Airport and start your Bedford adventure today.
By Car
Bedford is accessible via several major highways:
- Interstate 820 runs along the western edge of Bedford
- Highway 121/183 (Airport Freeway) runs through the center of Bedford
- Highway 26 (Colleyville Boulevard) connects Bedford to neighboring communities
Driving distances from major Texas cities:
- Dallas: 30 minutes (22 miles)
- Fort Worth: 20 minutes (15 miles)
- Arlington: 15 minutes (12 miles)
Best Time to Visit & Weather Tips
Bedford experiences a humid subtropical climate with hot summers and mild winters. The best times to visit are during spring (March-May) and fall (September-November) when temperatures are pleasant and outdoor activities are most enjoyable.
Seasonal Highlights
- Spring (March-May): Mild temperatures (65-85°F), blooming wildflowers, and perfect weather for outdoor activities.
- Summer (June-August): Hot and humid (85-100°F), ideal for water activities at Bedford Splash Aquatics Park.
- Fall (September-November): Pleasant temperatures (65-85°F), Bedford Blues & BBQ Festival (Labor Day weekend).
- Winter (December-February): Mild winters (40-60°F) with occasional cold snaps and rare snowfall.
Packing Tips
- Summer: Lightweight clothing, sunscreen, hat, and water bottle
- Spring/Fall: Light layers for temperature changes throughout the day
- Winter: Light jacket or coat, as temperatures rarely drop below freezing
- Rain gear: Umbrella or light raincoat (spring has highest rainfall)
Local Tip: If you’re planning to visit during the Bedford Blues & BBQ Festival on Labor Day weekend, book accommodations well in advance as hotels fill up quickly for this popular event.
Getting Around Bedford
Bedford is primarily a car-dependent city, and having your own vehicle is the most convenient way to explore the area. However, there are several transportation options available:
Rental Cars
Renting a car gives you the most flexibility to explore Bedford and the surrounding Dallas-Fort Worth area. Several rental agencies operate at DFW Airport and throughout the city.
Need a Rental Car?
Compare prices and book your rental car in advance for the best rates.
Rideshare & Taxis
Uber and Lyft operate throughout Bedford and the surrounding areas, providing convenient transportation options. Traditional taxi services are also available but less common.
Public Transportation
While Bedford itself has limited public transportation, the Trinity Metro bus service connects parts of Bedford to the broader Dallas-Fort Worth area. However, service is limited and may not be convenient for tourists.
Where to Stay in Bedford
Bedford offers a variety of accommodation options to suit different budgets and preferences. Most hotels are concentrated along Highway 121/183 (Airport Freeway), providing easy access to both the airport and major attractions.
Budget-Friendly Options
- Quality Inn & Suites
- Days Inn by Wyndham
- Motel 6
These hotels offer comfortable rooms with basic amenities at affordable rates, perfect for travelers on a budget.
Mid-Range Hotels
- Hampton Inn & Suites
- Holiday Inn Express
- La Quinta Inn & Suites
These hotels provide additional amenities like free breakfast, fitness centers, and business facilities at moderate prices.
Extended Stay Options
- Home2 Suites by Hilton
- Extended Stay America
- TownePlace Suites by Marriott
Perfect for longer visits, these hotels offer suites with kitchenettes and living areas for a home-like experience.
Find Your Perfect Bedford Accommodation
Compare prices, read reviews, and book your stay with confidence.
Dining & Local Cuisine
Bedford boasts over 100 restaurants ranging from familiar chains to unique local establishments. The city’s dining scene offers something for every palate and budget.
Local Favorites
Tex-Mex & Mexican
- Los Jimadores: Authentic Mexican cuisine with generous portions and excellent margaritas
- Miguelito’s Mexican Restaurant: Family-owned spot known for its fajitas and friendly service
Asian Cuisine
- Thai Thippawan: Authentic Thai dishes with adjustable spice levels
- Pho Noodle & Grill: Vietnamese comfort food including pho and banh mi
- Sushi Domo: Fresh sushi and Japanese specialties
American & BBQ
- Roscoe’s Smokehouse: Texas-style BBQ with all the traditional fixings
- Old West Cafe: Hearty breakfast and lunch options with Texas flair
- Twisted Root Burger Co.: Creative burgers and hand-spun shakes
Dining Tip: Many Bedford restaurants offer outdoor seating during the pleasant spring and fall months. If you’re visiting during the Bedford Blues & BBQ Festival, be sure to sample offerings from the Texas Bar-B-Que cookoff competitors!
Top Attractions & Things to Do in Bedford
Outdoor Recreation
Bedford Boys Ranch Park
This 68-acre park is the crown jewel of Bedford’s parks system. The expansive green space features a small urban lake with a spray fountain, jogging paths, sports fields, sand volleyball courts, tennis courts, and picnic areas. The park is perfect for fishing, hiking, or simply relaxing in nature.
Bedford Splash Aquatics Park
During the hot summer months, Bedford Splash is the place to cool off. This family-friendly water park features three different pools (tot pool, leisure zero-entry pool, and multi-purpose recreation pool), water slides, and a lazy river. The park also offers concessions, shaded eating areas, and cabanas available for rental.
Historical & Cultural Sites
Old Bedford School
Built in 1915, this beautifully restored two-story brick schoolhouse is listed in the National Register of Historic Places. Today, it serves as an educational and cultural community center hosting tours, concerts, and special events. The historic school is also a popular venue for weddings, family reunions, and corporate meetings.
Northeast Tarrant County Civil War Memorial
Located on the grounds of the Bedford Church of Christ, this memorial honors veterans of both armies during the Civil War who lived, owned land, died, or are buried in Northeast Tarrant County. The adjacent Bedford Cemetery, a Texas historical site, contains the graves of at least 19 veterans listed on the memorial.
Explore Bedford’s Attractions
Book guided tours and activities to make the most of your Bedford visit.
Annual Events & Festivals
Bedford hosts several signature events throughout the year that draw visitors from across the region. These community celebrations showcase the city’s vibrant culture and community spirit.
Independence Day Celebration
Bedford’s legendary 4th of July celebration features one of the largest fireworks displays in the area. The free event includes live music, food vendors, family activities, and a spectacular pyrotechnic show. Held at Bedford Boys Ranch Park, this patriotic celebration is a highlight of the summer calendar.
Bedford Blues & BBQ Festival
Held annually on Labor Day weekend, this popular festival combines great music and mouthwatering barbecue. The event features national and regional blues musicians performing on two stages, a Texas Bar-B-Que cookoff, local artisans, and an Inflata-Fun children’s area. This signature event draws thousands of visitors each year.
Twilight Thursdays
During the spring and summer months, Bedford hosts free outdoor concerts at the Old Bedford School. These family-friendly events feature local musicians performing in a relaxed, picnic-friendly atmosphere. Bring a blanket, lawn chairs, and a picnic basket for an evening of music under the stars.
Planning Tip: If you’re visiting during one of Bedford’s major festivals, arrive early to secure parking and bring portable chairs or blankets for seating. Many events allow outside food and non-alcoholic beverages, but policies vary, so check the official event website before attending.
Family-Friendly Activities
Bedford is an excellent destination for families, with numerous activities and attractions designed with children in mind.
Kid-Friendly Attractions
- Putt-Putt Fun Center: This indoor entertainment center features mini-golf, arcade games, bumper cars, and laser tag—perfect for family fun regardless of the weather.
- Bedford Public Library: The library offers children’s story times, educational programs, and special events throughout the year.
- Movie Tavern: This dine-in movie theater in nearby Colleyville offers family films and a full menu of food and beverages delivered to your seat.
Nearby Family Attractions
Within a short drive from Bedford, families can enjoy these popular attractions:
- NRH2O Family Water Park: Located in North Richland Hills (10 minutes away), this large water park features slides, wave pools, and a lazy river.
- LEGOLAND Discovery Center: Located in Grapevine (15 minutes away), this indoor attraction offers LEGO-themed rides, 4D cinema, and building activities.
- SEA LIFE Grapevine Aquarium: Adjacent to LEGOLAND, this aquarium features thousands of aquatic creatures and interactive exhibits.
Day Trips from Bedford
Bedford’s central location in the Dallas-Fort Worth Metroplex makes it an ideal base for exploring the region. Here are some excellent day trip options, all within a short drive:
Fort Worth (20 minutes)
- Fort Worth Stockyards: Experience the Old West with twice-daily cattle drives, rodeos, and Western shops
- Sundance Square: Vibrant downtown district with shopping, dining, and entertainment
- Fort Worth Cultural District: Home to several world-class museums including the Kimbell Art Museum and Modern Art Museum
Dallas (30 minutes)
- Dealey Plaza & Sixth Floor Museum: Learn about the Kennedy assassination at this historic site
- Dallas Arts District: The largest contiguous urban arts district in the nation
- Klyde Warren Park: Urban green space built over a freeway with food trucks and activities
Grapevine (15 minutes)
- Historic Main Street: Charming district with shops, wineries, and restaurants
- Grapevine Mills Mall: Large shopping center with entertainment options
- Lake Grapevine: Outdoor recreation including boating, fishing, and hiking trails
Practical Travel Tips
Safety Information
Bedford is generally a safe community with low crime rates. However, it’s always wise to take standard precautions:
- Keep valuables out of sight in your vehicle
- Be aware of your surroundings, especially at night
- Follow posted rules at parks and public facilities
- In case of emergency, dial 911
Local Etiquette
Texans are known for their friendliness and hospitality. A few cultural notes:
- A friendly “hello” or “howdy” is common when passing strangers
- Tipping 15-20% is expected at restaurants
- Casual dress is acceptable at most establishments
- Texans take pride in their state—compliments about Texas are always welcome!
Weather Advisory: Summer temperatures in Bedford can exceed 100°F (38°C). Stay hydrated, use sunscreen, and plan outdoor activities for mornings or evenings during the hottest months (June-August).
Experience the Heart of Texas in Bedford
Bedford may be small in size, but it offers visitors a perfect blend of small-town charm and big-city convenience. Its central location makes it an ideal base for exploring the Dallas-Fort Worth Metroplex, while its parks, cultural attractions, and community events provide plenty to enjoy within the city limits.
Whether you’re cooling off at Bedford Splash during the summer months, enjoying live blues music at the annual Bedford Blues & BBQ Festival, or exploring the historic Old Bedford School, this welcoming Texas city has something for everyone. With its friendly locals, diverse dining options, and family-friendly attractions, Bedford invites you to experience the heart of Texas hospitality.
Ready to Plan Your Bedford Adventure?
Start planning your trip today with these essential travel resources.
