8 Most Idyllic Small Towns in Vermont
Vermont, known as the Green Mountain State, is known for its forests, maple syrup production, and mountainous terrain, which includes the prominent Green Mountains. It is the second least populous state in the US and is prominent for its liberal politics and fall foliage, which attracts tourists from around the globe. Vermont has a strong dairy farming tradition and is a leader in the farm-to-table food movement. The state is dotted with idyllic small towns such as Woodstock and Shelburne.
With their covered bridges, charming town squares, and natural attractions, these eight idyllic Vermont towns are worth visiting.
Woodstock
Woodstock, Vermont, is in the Green Mountains of central Vermont. It was chartered in 1761 and developed rapidly due to its abundant water power, which facilitated various mills along the Ottauquechee River. Woodstock has a commitment to conservation and appreciation for heritage and natural beauty.
Marsh-Billings-Rockefeller National Historical Park is the only national park in America dedicated to telling the story of conservation history and the evolving nature of land stewardship in America. Visitors can explore the maintained grounds, forest, and formal gardens. Billings Farm & Museum is an operational dairy farm and a museum of Vermont's rural past. The farm has interactive exhibits, up-close encounters with Jersey cows, and 19th-century farm life activities. Sugarbush Farm is another family-owned farm. Visitors can tour the farm to learn about syrup production, cheese-making, and the sustainable practices that typify Vermont's agricultural tradition.
Stowe
Stowe, Vermont, is also in the Green Mountains. Founded in 1763 and developing slowly into a community centered around agriculture and lumber, Stowe began to evolve into a tourist destination with the opening of the Mount Mansfield Toll Road in 1870 and the arrival of the railroad in 1897. These developments made the town accessible to visitors, and it quickly became renowned for its winter sports.
Stowe Mountain Resort is a skiing and snowboarding experience in the winter with state-of-the-art facilities and trails suited for all skill levels. In the summer, the resort transforms to offer attractions such as zip-lining, hiking, and gondola rides. Smugglers' Notch State Park, named after the smugglers who used the area's caves and thickets during the early 19th century, has dramatic landscapes and hiking trails that lead through dense forests and rocky terrains. The park is also famous for its narrow pass through the Green Mountains, lined with 1,000-foot cliffs. The Stowe Recreation Path is a 5.3-mile paved trail that is a safe and scenic route for walking, biking, and in-line skating. It winds through the town and alongside the West Branch of Little River.
Montpelier
Montpelier, the smallest state capital in the United States, is along the Winooski River. Montpelier was chartered in 1781 and established as the state capital in 1805, a status that has contributed to its cultural and political prominence. Montpelier's early development was influenced by the rise of the wool industry and later the granite industry, which shaped its economic landscape.
The Vermont State House, one of the oldest and best-preserved state capitols in America, has guided tours to see its architecture and art, including its restored legislative chambers and historic portraits. Hubbard Park, accessible from downtown Montpelier, is a green space that has miles of trails for hiking and cross-country skiing. Its observation tower has views of the capital city and the surrounding hills. The Vermont Historical Society Museum, near the State House, displays insightful exhibits on Vermont's history from pre-colonial times to the present. The museum is ideal for those looking to deepen their understanding of Vermont's social, cultural, and political development.
Shelburne
Shelburne is located along the shores of Lake Champlain. Established in 1763 and incorporated in 1787, Shelburne quickly became known for its agricultural productivity, benefiting from the fertile Champlain Valley soils and the moderating effects of the lake on the local climate. In the 19th and early 20th centuries, Shelburne's proximity to Burlington made it an attractive location for summer estates for the wealthy.
The Shelburne Museum, set on a landscaped 45-acre property, is one of the nation's finest, most diverse, and unconventional museums of art, design, and Americana. Over 39 structures host an impressive array of collections, including folk art, quilts, decorative arts, and a restored 220-foot steamboat. Shelburne Farms is a 1,400-acre working farm, forest, and National Historic Landmark focused on sustainable agriculture, natural resource management, and food systems. Visitors can tour the farm. Lastly, Shelburne Vineyard is an opportunity to sample some of Vermont’s finest wines. With a focus on sustainable viticulture, the vineyard offers tastings and tours that explain the process of wine production in a cold climate.
Middlebury
Middlebury, Vermont, was founded in 1761 and is set along Otter Creek, which powered the early mills that established Middlebury as a regional industrial center. It is perhaps best known as the home of Middlebury College, established in 1800, which is one of the oldest liberal arts colleges in the United States. The presence of the college has significantly shaped the cultural and intellectual life of the town.
The Middlebury College Museum of Art has a diverse collection of art that spans the globe and centuries, from ancient artifacts to contemporary works. The museum hosts various exhibitions and educational programs. The Robert Frost Interpretive Trail is a more contemplative experience, featuring a gentle walking path through the countryside that inspired many of Frost's poems. The trail is dotted with plaques of his poetry.
Dorset
Dorset, Vermont, is in the Taconic Mountains and dates back to its establishment in 1761. It is reputed to be one of Vermont’s oldest towns and has a heritage tied to the early iron industry and later, to the marble quarries. Dorset marble was used in constructing historic landmarks such as the New York Public Library and the United States Supreme Court building.
The Dorset Theatre Festival attracts talent from across the country and has a summer season of productions that range from new plays to classic dramas, all staged in an intimate, historic playhouse. For those looking for outdoor activities, the Dorset Quarry is one of the oldest marble quarries in the US. It is now filled with water and serves as a swimming hole. Additionally, the Merck Forest and Farmland Center is an extensive educational and recreational facility spanning over 3,000 acres. It is for outdoor activities including hiking, horseback riding, and camping, as well as programs in sustainable agriculture and forestry.
Waitsfield
Waitsfield, in the Mad River Valley, was settled in 1782 and incorporated in 1793. Waitsfield's development was influenced by its location along the Mad River, which provided water power for the mills. Over the years, Waitsfield has evolved from a primarily agrarian community to a popular tourist destination, particularly known for its ski resorts.
Mad River Glen is a skiing experience with the motto "Ski It If You Can," famous for its challenging terrain and dedication to preserving the classic New England ski tradition. The area is one of the last remaining ski resorts with a single chairlift. The Skinner Barn, originally built in 1891 and restored, is now a cultural spot that hosts weddings, theatrical productions, and community events. Its rustic setting makes it an ideal venue for local arts and entertainment. The Mad River Path is a network of trails that meanders through the valley, connecting the towns of Warren, Waitsfield, and Moretown. This path has excellent opportunities for walking and biking.
Bennington
Bennington, located in southwestern Vermont, was founded in 1749 and is one of Vermont's earliest settlements. It became a significant player during the Revolutionary War, specifically noted for the Battle of Bennington in 1777. This battle is celebrated as a key victory that helped pave the way for the subsequent American triumph at Saratoga.
The Bennington Battle Monument is the tallest structure in Vermont and lets visitors climb to the top for panoramic views of the landscapes that stretch into neighboring states. This monument commemorates the Battle of Bennington. The Bennington Museum has an impressive collection of art and artifacts that focus on Southern Vermont, including the largest public collection of Grandma Moses paintings and memorabilia. Exhibits are both educational and engaging. Finally, the Bennington Center for the Arts is dedicated to promoting and supporting local arts, with galleries of traditional and contemporary art, a covered bridge museum, and an array of events and workshops.
Vermont's small towns have idyllic New England charm and natural beauty, making them irresistible destinations for those seeking tranquility and a rich historical atmosphere. Woodstock exemplifies this with its village green and heritage conservation, while Stowe has stunning mountain views and outdoor recreational activities that draw visitors year-round. Shelburne enchants with its world-class museum and vibrant agricultural practices, showing off Vermont's commitment to sustainability. Each of these eight towns provides a look into the state’s idyllic lifestyle, where history, culture, and natural beauty converge.
