During the latter half of the 1970s, Bedford -- The Limestone Capital of the World -- was awarded a sizable amount of federal money to build a 95-foot-tall limestone replica of the Great Pyramid of Giza. Plans were also in the works to construct a 650-foot-long replica of the Great Wall of China, but these plans fell through. Much to the dismay of local residents, this replica wall was left unfinished.
The city of Bedford is located in Shawswick Township, Lawrence County, Indiana
During the latter half of the 1970s, Bedford -- The Limestone Capital of the World -- was awarded a sizable amount of federal money to build a 95-foot-tall limestone replica of the Great Pyramid of Giza. Plans were also in the works to construct a 650-foot-long replica of the Great Wall of China, but these plans fell through. Much to the dismay of local residents, this replica wall was left unfinished.
The city of Bedford is located in Shawswick Township, Lawrence County, Indiana. According to the 2010 census, the town's population was estimated to be 13,413. Bedford is the county seat of Lawrence County. Bedford's climate, according to the Koppen Climate Classification system, is humid and tropical. The summers are hot and humid, while the winters are generally either mild or cool.
How Much Will It Cost?
Bargain hunters, take note: The cost of living in Bedford, IN, is significantly below that of the national average.
When to Begin Looking
Though some residents had great luck finding an apartment in a month (or less), err on the side of caution and leave yourself six weeks to locate rental houses or an apt for rent in Bedford.
What You Need
As you search for a rental property in Bedford, you should come prepared with the standard set of documents: proof or your current income (a pay stub or bank statement will do the trick), a valid photo ID, and possibly a credit report. Depending on your prospective landlord, you may also be expected to provide references for previous rental properties. It doesn't hurt to bring your checkbook to showings, either -- you never know when you'll find your ideal home (or apartment)!
Michael Avenue: Located near U.S. highways 37 and 50, Michael Avenue offers a range of apartments for rent. A number of the rentals are also pet-friendly, which will come as a relief to many -- no one wants to leave Fido or Fifi behind. The area also has public transportation, making it a popular choice among the carless.
25th Street: For those looking for a home for rent, 25th Street in Bedford is a great contender among neighborhoods. Amenities within the immediate vicinity are somewhat scant, but the area is relatively quiet and peaceful. Besides, the center of the city is only a short walk away.
Central Avenue: Central Avenue offers a variety of rental housing options. Some of the rentals are pet-friendly, though most require a deposit for this privilege. If the thought of revving up the barbecue makes you feel faint, Central Avenue may be your preferred location -- there are at least seven restaurants within easy walking distance of the area.
Forest Park Drive: Forest Park Drive is a pleasantly secluded area that provides a great (and varied) selection of rental properties. There are three restaurants within easy walking distance.
J Street: Close to the center of the city, J Street offers renters the opportunity to enjoy local amenities while simultaneously enjoying a (relatively) quiet spot with lots of privacy.
Lincoln Avenue: Lincoln Avenue is also located near the city center, so dining and shopping options are never more than a quick stroll (or drive) away.
Cedar View Lane: Cedar View Lane offers a few townhouses for rent. Generally speaking, these houses have sizable yards. Local amenities include a number of restaurants situated within easy walking distance.
Getting Around
There are no interstate highways near Bedford, the closest being Interstate 69, which is approximately 20 miles to the west. Nevertheless, U.S. Highway 50 cuts through the heart of the city and connects Bedford with Vincennes to the west and Seymour to the east. State Road 37 connects Bedford with Mitchell in the south and Bloomington in the north. Bedford is located in a hilly area of Indiana. There's one railroad in the vicinity (the Indiana Railroad), which runs to Louisville, Kentucky, and also to Terre Haute, Indiana, with further connections to Chicago. The nearest airport is Indianapolis International Airport, which serves both regional flights as well as international flights. The airport is located 71 miles from Bedford.
Keeping Busy
Bedford residents are never at a loss for activities or dining options. Bluespring Caverns, unsurprisingly located on Bluespring Caverns Road, makes for a rather fascinating outing. A visit to the caverns includes a one-hour-long flat-bottomed boat tour, which allows tour guests to take in the considerable beauty of this natural wonder. Hoosier National Forest is a nature-lover's paradise. The rolling hills, back country trails, and rural communities all add to the charm of this 202,000-acre forest. Visitors to the forest can partake of a broad range of activities: hiking, biking, walking, climbing, birdwatching -- you name it! The forest also allows horseback riding and has designated areas for camping, hunting, fishing, water activities, and picnicking. Hoosier National Forest has a little bit of something for everyone.
Let's talk food for a bit. Those with a raging sweet tooth should head to the Magic Morning Bakery Restaurant on West 16th Street, Bedford. This Bakery is a pastry-lover's dream. Visitors to the Magic Mountain can take their pick of apple fritters, glazed croissants, donuts, cookies, clairs, tea cakes, and cream puffs, among other confections. If that list doesn't make your mouth water, who knows what will! If you've got a soft spot for buffets, then pay a visit to Golden Corral Restaurant on James Avenue, Bedford. Conveniently located just off the highway, this restaurant provides all forms of American-style fare, including clam chowder, baked potatoes, French fries, salads galore, and plenty of soups. For obvious reasons, this establishment is best avoided if you're trying to stick to a diet -- unless, of course, it's a see-food diet! Empress Court Restaurant in Bedford's Town Fair Shopping Center offers a great choice of Chinese food. The restaurant also serves a daily buffet -- another pitfall for dieters but a perk for adherents of the "all-you-can-eat" school of dining.
