6 Little-Known Towns In Vermont

There is much more to the great state of Vermont than simple maple syrup. During your next vacation, you could be driving through the rolling hills of Vermont, passing little-known towns so small they probably do not even get noticed by most travelers. Yet, somehow, these places are worth every mile of your GPS recalculating its life choices. When it comes to history, Vermont was the first state to abolish slavery, so they have always been ahead of the curve.

The Green Mountain State also played a starring role in the American Revolution, and every year, the state remembers the Battle of Bennington. Today, you can still visit the Bennington Battle Monument. Not to mention, Vermont was an independent republic for 14 years before it was officially admitted into the US. You will also find that Vermont is home to the Green Mountains and Lake Champlain, a massive body of water with more legends than a Netflix true-crime series. These six perfect examples of Vermont’s small towns pack in history, nature, and quirks that make them so much more than just a blip on the map.

St. Johnsbury

Tucked away in the northeast corner of Vermont, St. Johnsbury might seem like an unlikely stop on most people’s itinerary, but it is an intriguing place to discover. The town's Victorian architecture lines its main street, standing as a tribute to its prosperous railroad era. The St. Johnsbury and Lake Champlain Railroad helped shape the local economy in the 1800s, leaving behind a legacy that permeates the town’s character. You can also take time to explore the Fairbanks Museum and Planetarium, founded in 1889, giving you a fascinating glimpse into the town's development and dedication to science, while the St. Johnsbury Athenaeum introduces art lovers to a remarkable collection of American paintings. If you are into history, the museum’s exhibits will keep you absorbed for hours.

What is a trip to Vermont without enjoying the fresh northern air? You can do just that at the Saint Johnsbury Municipal Forest and the Moose River. Be it going on a walk with the family dog or grabbing your kayak and isolating yourself from the world on the river, you will find there is always a reason to escape into the outdoors in this town.

Middlebury

Middlebury is a strong representative of intellectualism and activism, rooted in its 1800 founding of Middlebury College, one of the oldest liberal arts institutions in the country. The college campus exudes academic energy, often playing host to cultural events, including the Middlebury New Filmmakers Festival, which spotlights the best of the best-emerging filmmakers. The town’s ties to social justice movements are undeniable.

During the Civil War, Middlebury served as a critical stop on the Underground Railroad, helping enslaved individuals find freedom across the Canadian border. Additionally, one of the town's most notable features is the 1824 Middlebury Halpin Covered Bridge, a great spot for painters and photography lovers. Otter Creek runs through the town, providing ample opportunities for fishing, picnics, and just relaxing by the water.

Bennington

Bennington sits in the southern part of the state and serves as a focal part of the region. With a population of 15,000, it is the largest town in southwestern Vermont and offers a lot to do for visitors. Historically, Bennington is the site of the 1777 Battle of Bennington, commemorated by the towering Bennington Battle Monument. It is a must-visit for history enthusiasts or simply people proud of what it took for the nation to be born.

If you happen to be the kind of person with a passion for art, the Bennington Museum offers a rich collection, with standout works by Grandma Moses, famous for her folk art paintings. Plus, the town’s four covered bridges, like the Silk Road Covered Bridge, add to its character and are perfect spots for a leisurely walk through this historic town. It also boasts an impressive educational institution in Bennington College, which has contributed to the region’s artistic and cultural development since 1932.

Bristol

Sitting right at the feet of the Green Mountains, with a population of only about 4,000 residents, is Bristol. While it might be small, its big claim to fame is the town's ability to grant you the sweet escape from city life for a reprieve into nature and the chance to simply get away from it all. Outdoor enthusiasts flock here because of the town's proximity to the Green Mountain National Forest, where hiking and outdoor adventures are always within reach.

Bristol's central area is dotted with 19th-century buildings, including the Bristol Town Hall, which stands as a nod to the town's long history. If you are an art lover, check out Art on Main, a local gallery where you can see works from regional artists. Another interesting stop is the Bristol Rock, a slanted slab of pure granite with the Lord's prayer carved into it. With its community events like farmers' markets, concerts, and summertime festivals, Bristol is sure to give you an authentic taste of Vermont life.

Norwich

Sitting on the banks of the Connecticut River, Norwich has a beauty that is unmatched in the state. The town is closely tied to Dartmouth College, located just across the river in neighboring Hanover, especially with the presence of the Thayer School of Engineering, which has shaped much of the area’s development. Writers are drawn to Norwich, too. Robert Frost spent some time living here, and his presence still lingers in the air.

The Norwich Inn, founded in 1797, is one of Vermont's oldest inns and continues to serve as a beloved resting place for both residents and visitors. While in town, be sure not to miss the Montshire Museum of Science, an educational spot ideal for families with its hands-on exhibits about natural history and environmental science.

Randolph

Randolph is a town along the White River. Historically, it was a center for agriculture and wood products, supplying tools that were sold all over the state. Randolph is a cultural hotspot and home to the Chandler Center for the Arts, where you can catch performances and art exhibits year-round.

The town's proximity to hiking and snowmobile trails makes it fantastic for outdoor activities in all seasons. With the number of small streams that pass through the town combined with the waters of the White River, fishing, kayaking, tubbing, and just enjoying time next to the babbling brooks are favored pastimes. The town also has a downtown area full of locally owned shops and restaurants, like Wit & Grit or Short Notice, adding to its community-focused vibe.

So, what makes the small towns of Vermont worth a visit? It is simple. If you are looking for a place where the maple syrup flows like water, historic buildings seem to multiply like rabbits, and you can actually hear yourself think, then Vermont's small towns have you covered. From epic battles to quirky museums, these little-known towns are packed with more character than your favorite uncle at the family reunion. Be it hiking, skiing, or just indulging in locally-made cheese, there is no shortage of things to do. Go for the history, stay for the maple syrup—and maybe even learn how to pronounce "Worcester" correctly while you are at it.