The Bedford center point is about 4 miles northwest of Seaview Memorial Park and 4 miles north of Halifax Mainland Common Park.
Pleasantly warm weather and many local festivals make May to October the ideal time for visiting Bedford. These perfect conditions attract many tourists though, so make sure you plan your trip well in advance. While Bedford doesn't experience the same tourist numbers of Halifax, local hotels still book quickly. You're also likely to spend a little more on your accommodation during the peak season. However, with average top temperatures ranging from the mid-50s to mid-70s, depending on the time you visit, travelers insist it's worth the price.
If you'd rather avoid the crowds and inflated accommodation costs, try Bedford in November to February. Daily highs range from the mid-40s in November to high 20s in February, but it can feel much colder when the winds set in. However, dressing in layers should keep the cold at bay. You can enjoy the icy conditions at Nova Scotia's ski slopes. March and April are slightly warmer, but relentless springtime rain typically keeps tourists away.
Well-known hotel branches often offer selected guests big discounts. Present your valid identification at the check-in desk to secure your preferential rate at the following accommodation providers.
Comfort Inn Halifax extends discounts to AAA and CAA auto club members, seniors and AARP members, government and military personnel, and large traveling groups needing 10 rooms or more. While it's in busy Halifax, it's a short walk from Hemlock Ravine Park and the Halifax Waterfront. It's a charming hotel with a checkers table in the lobby and heated indoor pool offering fun in the water all year round. Its pleasant guestrooms include all the comforts of home, including fridges, microwaves, and 37-inch flat-screen TVs. Enjoy the convenience of free high-speed Wi-Fi, phone calls, and the Your Morning Breakfast.
Doubletree by Hilton Halifax Dartmouth has special rates for AAA auto club members, seniors and AARP members, government and military personnel, large groups, and travel agents. You'll always feel like a valued guest here, from the moment you receive your welcome chocolate chip cookie to the time you check out. The rooms are modern but inviting, with large 50-inch LCD TVs, ergonomic work stations, mini-fridges, and coffee makers. Many rooms even have private balconies, perfect for appreciating the Halifax Harbour views. After swimming laps in the indoor heated pool, enjoy the delicious meals at the onsite restaurant, The Narrows Bistro.
While they're not the most affordable hotels in the local area, top facilities and first-class service make the following options great value. Most guests speak about these superb local hotels in glowing terms.
Cambridge Suites Hotel Halifax is a modern all-suites hotel next to historic Citadel Hill. The enormous one- and two-bedroom suites feature creature comforts including flat-screen TVs, premium bedding, and large windows for admiring the city and harbor views. The Rooftop Fitness Studio is the perfect place to work out, with treadmills, bikes, free weights, and more. After you're done, soothe your tired muscles in the whirlpool or sauna or unwind on the Rooftop Patio. Guests enjoy free Wi-Fi and continental breakfasts each morning.
Guests regularly praise the Travelodge Suites by Wyndham Halifax Dartmouth for its friendly customer service and immaculate guestrooms and suites. Each one features a flat-screen TV and a DVD player to keep you entertained, a mini-fridge for your drinks and snacks, and a coffee maker for your morning cup of Joe. Guests enjoy free Wi-Fi, a continental breakfast each morning, car parking, and access to the hotel's business center and fitness room. No matter whether you're visiting the Bedford area for business or pleasure, Travelodge Suites by Wyndham Halifax Dartmouth makes a great home base.
The tight-knit community of Bedford enjoys several great traditions throughout the year. Travelers are always welcome to take part in these great community traditions.
February is Scott Manor Heritage Month, a time when Bedford's oldest home celebrates its own rich history and Bedford's past with a variety of community events. The Fort Sackville Foundation, who operates Scott Manor, and other local historic societies come together for these fascinating events.
Bedford Days has been a summer institution for more than 30 years. In late June and early July, residents and tourists gather at DeWolf Park and other local venues for fun events including Movies in the Park, the Rubber Duck Dash, the dog show, and Canada Day Celebrations. Its fun for the whole family, with a kids' triathlon and Kids' Extravaganza always popular with young attendees. Bring your appetite to the free pancake breakfast and Scott Manor House tea party.
The Light Up Bedford Parade rings in the festive season. The parade starts at Bedford Place Mall, winding its way along the Bedford Highway to DeWolf Park, where carolers sing and revelers enjoy hot chocolate. At the conclusion of the parade, officials light the city's Christmas tree. All money raised benefits the Turkey Club Society who ensure all Halifax residents can afford a family dinner at Christmastime.
Downtown Halifax isn't your only option for a Nova Scotia getaway. If you prefer a more relaxed vacation, with all the perks of a big city close at hand, visit Bedford.
Below are reviews of the city of Bedford, NS from an actual visitor's perspective.
The waterfront/harbour was appealing. Diverse shops with Persian carpets, Thai food, etc.
Bedford is a nice quiet community with lots of nearby shopping, restaurants, grocery stores and just a 10 minute drive to downtown Halifax.