Bedford, OH

Bedford came into existence as a popular oasis in travels between Cleveland and Pittsburgh in the early days of the United States. Because of many gorges, rivers and streams, and an abundance of natural resources, this was a popular place for mills and trading posts along the way. Many of these relics of a bygone era are still in existence today and give Bedford a natural, historic feel as one-fifth of the city's land belongs to the Cleveland Metroparks system.

Public Square and the Bedford Historic District hold much of the town's rich historical buildings and landmarks, drawing crowds to their annual and seasonal events. The Bedford Historical Society's Lyceum Series is a set of history lessons and events that teach community members about where the city has been and how it came to be. In June, Bedford hosts its annual Strawberry Festival, which celebrated its 50th year in 2014.

For food and drink in Bedford, take a drive down Broadway and feast your eyes on a world of opportunity. In addition to fast food and chain restaurants, this area of Bedford has a local taste to impress. For something cheap, local and tasty, check out the Dog House. Three dollars and seventy-five cents will get you a hearty frank with your choice of toppings, chips and a drink. While the location is not impressive to the eye, your stomach and your wallet will be full and satisfied.

In the same vein as the Dog House, De Pompei's Broadway Gardens is nothing impressive to look at - from the outside. But don't let appearances fool you, De Pompei's is a hidden gem in the Bedford community. A small bar with a local "Cheers-like" atmosphere, Pompei's offers a friendly environment, cheap beer and good food - boasting some of the best wings in the area.

Stay on Broadway after you eat and hit one of the many lounges and bars on the strip to complete a fun night out. Mr Gees Lounge, Faces Lounge and nearby Oasis all offer similar experiences and atmospheres - reasonably priced, casual relaxed bars to pass the time on a night out.

From a highway accessibility standpoint, Bedford is second to none in the Cleveland area. It is located just off the interchange of Interstate 271 and Interstate 480, giving easy access to anything - north, south, east or west. Commuting to and from work or other destinations in the Cleveland area and beyond is fast and easy from Bedford. Getting around town is generally safe via car or bike as many main roads have bike lanes for the environmentally conscious commuter. The only road to stay off is Broadway Avenue, as it is almost always a high traffic area and not as biker-friendly as the rest of the area.

Getting to and from the city can be done via taxi, Uber or the Cleveland bus system. Hailing a taxi is not an option here, but there are companies in the area that can be called. An Uber estimate comes in between $24 to $32 dollars each way. If a bus is your choice, the 19 bus makes its way to Bedford and will take you around the greater metro area. No matter what you choose or why you are going there, getting to downtown Cleveland is a breeze.

Bedford has something to offer everyone in the parks and recreation department. Residents can enjoy one of the five publicly operated and maintained facilities in the city limits and all of the amenities that each has to offer.

The Ellenwood Recreation Center is a public facility that offers workout equipment, basketball courts and more and is free to members of the community with a valid ID and proof of residency. During the summer months, get a swim in at the Bedford Municipal Pool. The city charges a small membership fee for the year - $25 per person or $75 for a family of four, with the added option of guest passes when needed. The pool offers swim lessons and "aquacise" workout programs for additional fees throughout the year and is a great place to spend a day out with the family for some fun in the sun. If a day on the playground is more your mood, Bedford has you covered there as well, offering six playgrounds that are open from dawn until dusk. The parks are free and pet-friendly - as long as you have Fido on a leash. Patrons also enjoy a skate park ($5 yearly pass required) and baseball fields scattered around town.

The cost of living in Bedford is above the area average in general, but it is not far off. The cost of a one-bedroom residence comes in at $612 dollars per month. The cost of getting to the city via the public bus route varies based on how you pay, starting at $2.25 per trip and up. Prices at the pub are lower than the city average. With a large number of dive type bars, a domestic beer will range from $2 to $3 most places, save for the chain bars where it may be a little more. Gas prices are comparable to Cleveland, both of which are below the national average.

Just as with the restaurants and nightlife, Broadway Avenue is the place to be for your shopping needs. Bedford offers the usual grocery store options that northeast Ohio has to offer. Conveniently located on Broadway are a Giant Eagle, a Walmart Super Center and a Sam's Club, along with a variety of other grocery and convenience store outlets.

Also along Broadway are a number of specialty stores that will assist you in your hobbies and everyday projects. If you are a home and garden person, Bedford has a wealth of stores for you. The Spirit Apothecary, the Bedford Floral Shoppe, and Savarino Brothers Garden Center are all locally owned garden shops that will help you maintain your green thumb. Also be sure to check out Twisted Blu Boutique on, you guessed it, Broadway. Twisted Blu is a high-end women's clothing store with reasonably priced dresses, boots and other outerwear. Friendly service and a wide selection will help you to look and feel your best and be comfortable in what you wear.