Ohio Bedford Heights
Moving to Bedford Heights, Ohio
Bedford Heights, Ohio, blends classic suburban Northeast Ohio charm with easy access to Cleveland’s vibrant jobs, culture, and amenities. Just 12 miles southeast of downtown Cleveland via I-480, the city offers welcoming neighborhoods like quiet Deerlick Drive and family-oriented Southgate Manor, solid public schools in Bedford City School District, and a family-friendly, spirited vibe. Residents enjoy the expansive Bedford Reservation in Cleveland Metroparks for trails and picnics, scenic Tinker’s Creek Gorge for hiking and fishing, the Parks and Recreation Department’s pools and splash pads at the Community Center, and premier biking and disc golf minutes away in nearby Cuyahoga Valley National Park and Tinkers Creek State Park. A lively commercial district delivers eclectic dining, local spots like Bedford Bottle Shop, live music venues, and events like the Bedford Heights Community Festival and summer concerts—all at a cost of living about 5% below national averages. With quick drives to Cleveland Hopkins International Airport, RTA bus service, and growing trail infrastructure like the Towpath Trail, Bedford Heights delivers strong community spirit, natural beauty, and the perfect balance of relaxed suburban living with big-city convenience nearby.
Bedford Heights by the numbers
City population
Median home price
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Discover Bedford Heights: Top Attractions and Things to Do
Local Experiences
Local Experiences
Bedford Heights, Ohio, blends classic Northeast Ohio suburban charm with invigorating outdoor pursuits and a tight-knit community spirit, all just minutes from the Bedford Reservation's natural energy. Locals cherish hiking the forested trails of Bedford Reservation, exploring Tinker’s Creek Gorge for waterfalls and gorges, trekking the scenic Buckeye Trail, or pedaling the Bedford All Purpose Trail. The commercial district's eclectic eateries, nearby breweries, and seasonal events like summer concerts keep the social scene buzzing and bonds strong.
Hiking, Biking & Trails
Bedford Heights boasts over 20 miles of trails and greenways in nearby Bedford Reservation, including the Bedford Singletrack and All Purpose Trail. These paths wind past deep gorges, creek views, and native Ohio woodlands, linking neighborhoods to parks, wildlife areas, and Cuyahoga Valley National Park.
Family-Friendly Activities
Families head to Reed Park for its pools and splash pads, Fun 'n' Stuff for go-karts and arcade fun, and the Bedford Library for interactive story times and exhibits. The nearby Miles Farmers Market delivers fresh local produce, handmade crafts, and live tunes to the vibrant area.
Local Breweries & Dining
Bedford Heights' craft beer buzz thrives at nearby spots like North Coast Lager and Market Garden Brewery, both with cozy taprooms, patios, and rotating food trucks or live music. For eats, DePompei’s Broadway Gardens serves bold, Italian-inspired comfort food, while Jack’s Tavern pairs classic pub grub with craft cocktails in a lively, family-friendly setting.
Parks & Recreation | City of Bedford Heights, OH
Best hikes and trails in Bedford | AllTrails
Miles Farmers Market
Sports and Recreation
Sports and Recreation
Bedford Heights is a haven for active lifestyles and sports fans, fueled by Bedford High School's energetic athletics and endless outdoor pursuits in the Bedford Reservation and Cuyahoga Valley National Park, all within a 12-mile drive of Cleveland.
While Bedford Heights lacks professional teams, big-league action is accessible nearby: root for MLB's Cleveland Guardians, NBA's Cleveland Cavaliers, or MLS's Columbus Crew right in downtown Cleveland, or catch minor-league fun with the Lake Erie Crushers Frontier League baseball or Cleveland Monsters AHL hockey just 15–30 minutes away. Bedford High's Bearcats deliver thrilling high school action at Bedford Bearcat Stadium for football and the Aquatic Center for swimming, with a storied history including conference titles and playoff runs.
Bedford Heights excels in top-tier facilities and wild natural escapes. The Bedford Heights Community Center packs fitness gear, indoor tracks, courts for basketball and pickleball, and leagues for all ages, while the Parks and Recreation Department offers group classes and indoor sports.
Locals hit the athletic fields at C.E. Orr Complex for baseball, softball, and soccer tournaments, or Reed Park Pool for summer fun. Beyond town, Bedford Reservation and Tinkers Creek State Park beckon with 20+ miles of trails for hiking, biking, and disc golf, kayaking on Tinker’s Creek, fishing in Bedford Reservation lakes, and scenic views amid deep gorges and woodlands. With Ohio's four distinct seasons, vibrant fall foliage, and mild summers, Bedford Heights inspires an effortless, adventure-packed daily rhythm.
Parks & Recreation | City of Bedford Heights, OH
Bedford High School Athletics
Best hikes and trails in Bedford | AllTrails
Adventures
Adventures
Bedford Heights, Ohio, is an outdoor lover’s paradise just 12 miles from Cleveland and surrounded by the Bedford Reservation and Cuyahoga Valley National Park. Hike or bike the scenic Tinker’s Creek Gorge Trail and Bedford All Purpose Trail, paddle Tinker’s Creek or Bedford Reservation streams, or explore rugged terrain at Bedford Reservation and Tinkers Creek State Park. Thrill-seekers tackle mountain biking singletracks and rock climbing at the Gorge, while families love disc golf at Bedford Reservation, wildlife spotting, and playgrounds at Reed Park and C.E. Orr Complex.
History and culture enrich every outing. Dive into regional heritage at the Bedford Historical Society Museum with its industrial artifacts and WWII exhibits, explore the Chagrin River Watershed Partners’ conservation stories, or wander the historic Bedford Village district’s murals and early 20th-century architecture.
Year-round festivals—from Bedford Heights Community Festival and Summer Concert Series to the July 4th Fireworks and Holiday Tree Lighting—keep the vibe electric. Whether you chase adrenaline or quiet woodland escapes, Bedford Heights delivers unforgettable adventures for all ages.
Parks & Recreation | City of Bedford Heights, OH
Best hikes and trails in Bedford | AllTrails
Events | Bedford Heights, OH
Seasonal Events
Seasonal Events
Bedford Heights embraces year-round celebrations that highlight its Northeast Ohio suburban heritage, community spirit, and vibrant family-oriented culture.
Spring
As forsythia blooms and temperatures rise, Bedford Heights buzzes with outdoor markets and cultural kickoffs. The nearby Miles Farmers Market launches its seasonal run with fresh local produce, artisan goods, and live music every Saturday from May through October, while the Spring Craft Show at Great Northern Mall brings vendor booths, family activities, and sessions at nearby venues. The annual Arbor Day Celebration—marking its ongoing tradition in 2025—draws crowds for tree plantings, speeches, and community gatherings in the historic district.
Summer
Summertime in Bedford Heights pulses with music, festivals, and park leisure. The BH Jazz Fest rocks free outdoor stages at the Community Center with local and regional bands, while community events flood parks with quirky games, eats, and artisan booths. July 4th fireworks dazzle during the Independence Day Parade and celebrations with parades, concerts, and family fun, and nearby trails, Tinker’s Creek, and Bedford Reservation beckon for boating, biking, swimming, and picnics amid the greenery.
Fall
With fiery foliage and crisp air, Bedford Heights toasts harvest vibes through fairs and craft fests. The Bedford Heights Community Festival spotlights indie artisans with screenings, street vendors, and parties in the historic district on the last weekend in September, while the nearby Garfield Heights Fall Festival celebrates autumn's hearty side with pet parades, live music, and vendor rides in early October. Parks like Bedford Reservation and Tinkers Creek State Park set the scene for hiking, pumpkin patches, and cozy gatherings.
Winter
Bedford Heights’ winter sparkles with cozy markets and community spirit during holiday events. The indoor Winter Farmers Market at the civic center runs Saturdays through March, offering seasonal treats, crafts, and warmth, while high school basketball games at Bedford High pack the gym with cheers and festive tailgates. Theaters and galleries host yuletide shows, nurturing joyful bonds in the chilly Ohio frost.
Throughout the year, Bedford Heights’ calendar overflows with farmers markets, art walks, music series, and neighborhood bashes that reflect its welcoming, spirited character.
City of Bedford Heights Ohio | Official Website
Events | City of Bedford Heights, OH
50+ of the Best Fall Festivals in Northeast Ohio
Community Resources
Bedford Heights, Ohio, provides residents with convenient access to a robust network of hospitals, medical centers, and specialty clinics located both within the city and in nearby Cuyahoga County, ensuring high-quality healthcare for all ages.
UH Bedford Medical Center – This full-service, 110-bed facility right in nearby Bedford serves as a regional hub for Northeast Ohio, offering advanced emergency services, surgical care, cardiovascular treatment through its accredited heart program, oncology, maternity with a dedicated women's center, and orthopedics, with a strong focus on patient-centered care, stroke recovery, and community wellness programs.
https://www.uhhospitals.org/locations/uh-bedford-medical-center
South Pointe Hospital – Affiliated with the renowned Cleveland Clinic health system, this major acute care facility in Warrensville Heights delivers comprehensive services including urgent care, neurology, pediatrics, and women's health, emphasizing innovative treatments, research, and specialized cardiac programs.
https://my.clevelandclinic.org/locations/south-pointe-hospital
Marymount Hospital – Located a short drive south in Garfield Heights, this 200-bed acute care hospital provides nationally recognized care in cardiology, emergency services with Level IV trauma designation, general surgery, and total joint replacement, serving as a key hub for specialized treatment in the region.
https://my.clevelandclinic.org/locations/marymount-hospital
UH Bedford Primary Care – This local outpatient center specializes in primary care, physical therapy, diagnostic imaging, and long-term wellness, supporting residents' transitions from acute care to home with personalized treatment plans.
https://www.uhhospitals.org/locations/primary-care/uh-bedford-primary-care
Regional Clinics and Medical Practices – Bedford Heights and surrounding areas feature numerous primary care offices, urgent care centers like UH Urgent Care and Cleveland Clinic Express Care, and specialty clinics affiliated with networks such as University Hospitals and Cleveland Clinic, delivering convenient preventive, diagnostic, and routine services close to home.
https://www.healthgrades.com/hospital-directory/oh-ohio/bedford-heights
Together, these hospitals and medical facilities ensure Bedford Heights residents have reliable access to advanced healthcare, emergency response, pediatric treatment, and long-term wellness services that support the health of the entire community.
Hospitals near Bedford Heights, OH | Healthgrades
UH Bedford Medical Center | University Hospitals
Marymount Hospital | Cleveland Clinic
Bedford Heights, Ohio, is a dynamic family hub renowned for its commitment to education across all stages. From solid public schools and specialized private options to accessible higher education and ongoing learning programs, Bedford Heights cultivates a comprehensive academic ecosystem that nurtures innovation, growth, and achievement for learners of every age.
Public Schools & Education - Bedford Heights is served by the Bedford City School District, a mid-sized system covering PK-12 with 7 schools focused on academic progress, equity, and holistic student growth. Flagship high schools like Bedford High School deliver rigorous curricula, athletics, and arts in a supportive environment, with an 87% graduation rate and strong college readiness through a 23% AP participation rate.
https://www.usnews.com/education/best-high-schools/ohio/districts/bedford-city/bedford-high-school-15825
https://www.publicschoolreview.com/ohio/bedford-city-school-district/3910017-school-district
Specialized learning tracks, including STEM initiatives, gifted programs, Advanced Placement (AP) courses, and enriched arts and music education, empower students to customize their paths toward personal and professional aspirations.
Private & Alternative Education - Bedford Heights families can choose from diverse private and faith-based schools emphasizing tailored instruction and character building. Holy Spirit Academy serves kindergarten through grade 8 with Catholic, values-driven learning in small classes focused on faith integration and academic excellence. Nearby options like Bethlehem Christian Academy (PK-8) and St. Peter Chanel High School (9-12) foster creativity through hands-on, play-based or individualized experiences.
https://www.privateschoolreview.com/ohio/bedford
https://www.niche.com/k12/search/best-private-schools/t/bedford-cuyahoga-oh/
Higher Education Opportunities - At the heart of the region lies Cuyahoga Community College (Tri-C), a public institution offering associate degrees, workforce training, and bachelor's programs in fields like business, education, health sciences, arts, and sciences, with robust research and community engagement. Nearby, John Carroll University provides undergraduate and graduate degrees, technical certifications, and continuing education just minutes away. These form a supportive network for degree pursuits, certifications, and career shifts.
https://www.collegesimply.com/colleges-near/ohio/bedford-heights/
Adult & Lifelong Learning - Bedford Heights champions continuous curiosity via offerings from Cuyahoga Valley Career Center's Adult Education program, district adult education partnerships, and regional programs like Aspire Greater Cleveland at Cuyahoga County Public Library. The center hosts workshops on digital literacy, ESL classes, and cultural events. Community venues offer classes in technology, wellness, languages, and finance, while Tri-C and Cuyahoga Valley Career Center provide non-credit certificates, online courses, and professional development for enrichment and advancement.
https://cvccworks.edu/adult-education/
https://cuyahogalibrary.org/services/adult-education/aspire-greater-cleveland
Whether you're a parent seeking the ideal match, a teen aiming for higher horizons, or an adult craving new expertise, Bedford Heights' enriching educational fabric empowers victory in every life phase.
Bedford High School - Ohio - US News Best High Schools
Bedford City School District (2025-26) - Ohio - PublicSchoolReview
Best Private Schools in Bedford, OH (2025) - PrivateSchoolReview
Colleges in Bedford Heights, Ohio and Colleges near Bedford Heights - CollegeSimply
Adult Education - Cuyahoga Valley Career Center
Bedford Heights, Ohio, operates under a mayor-council form of government and is supported by local departments that provide essential services to residents and businesses.
Law Enforcement - Public safety in Bedford Heights is provided by the Bedford Heights Police Department, which emphasizes community-oriented policing, crime prevention, and responsive emergency services to maintain a safe environment for residents, businesses, and visitors.
https://www.bedfordheights.gov/departments/police_department/index.php
Fire Protection and Emergency Medical Services - Fire and EMS services are managed by the Bedford Heights Fire Department, which includes professional personnel to provide reliable fire suppression, rescue operations, and emergency medical care throughout the city.
https://www.bedfordheights.gov/departments/fire/index.php
Weather & Climate - Bedford Heights experiences a humid continental climate, with cold, snowy winters and warm, humid summers. Average temperatures range from approximately 21°F in January to 82°F in July, supporting year-round outdoor recreation, community events, and seasonal activities.
Transportation & Mobility - Bedford Heights is conveniently located along I-480 and I-271, providing easy access to Cleveland and other regional hubs. Public transportation is offered through the Greater Cleveland Regional Transit Authority (RTA), connecting residents to local and intercity communities via bus routes across Cuyahoga County. The city is near Burke Lakefront Airport for general aviation, with nearby options like Cleveland Hopkins International Airport (CLE) just 15 miles northwest.
https://www.riderta.com/
https://www.bedfordheights.gov/
https://burke.clevelandairport.com/
Utilities & Waste Management - Essential services in Bedford Heights are managed by the Public Service Department, which oversees water, sewer, stormwater management, and curbside trash and recycling collection. Electricity is provided through deregulated providers via the Public Utilities Commission of Ohio, and natural gas services are offered by providers like Columbia Gas of Ohio. The city promotes sustainability through recycling programs, yard waste collection, and environmental initiatives.
https://www.bedfordheights.gov/departments/public_service.php https://www.puco.ohio.gov/
Additional sources:
City of Bedford Heights Ohio | Official Website
Departments | City of Bedford Heights, OH
RTA | Greater Cleveland Regional Transit Authority
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