While some tourists tend to flock around Mount Snow and Manchester, most travelers would want a special retreat from the beaten paths, and Southern Vermont is full of those spots. From quainter villages to stunning natural landscapes, here are some of those must-see places that actually display the beauty of this region. If you're venturing out of the more typical Vermont tourist areas, here's where you might want to consider going on your next weekend outing.
Wilmington: Quaint Village with Historic Appeal
- Tucked away in the Deerfield Valley, the town of Wilmington is a charming little village combined with an element of historical flair. Its Main Street boasts antique shops, art galleries, and locally owned restaurants, which make the area highly conducive for leisurely walking. Take in the historic landmark of the Old Red Mill Inn and learn a bit about the area's milling history. The Harriman Reservoir, which is more locally known as Lake Whitingham, is nearby for boating, taking out a kayak, and swimming during the warmer months.
Insider Tip: Sample the local craft beer scene. Wilmington's brewpubs serve up individual Vermont brews that reflect the spirit of the region.
2. Grafton: A Step Back in Time
Grafton is one of the most picturesque villages in Southern Vermont, where one can really get away from it all. With beautifully restored 19th-century buildings housing charming inns and quiet, tree-lined streets, this small village is almost a trip back in time. Visit the Grafton Village Cheese Company for a sample of their famous aged cheddar or check out the local Grafton History Museum. Great hiking and biking trails in the surrounding countryside make this area an outside enthusiast's haven.
Insider's Tip: Be sure to stay in the Grafton Inn, among the oldest operating inns in the country, for the most unique historic lodging.
3. Dorset Marble Quarry - Natural Swimming Hole
People who wish to capture a glimpse of the local history combined with a hint of a swim should never miss the Dorset Marble Quarry. It is the oldest commercial marble quarry in the United States and is a very popular swimming hole both for locals and visitors today. Nothing can be as refreshing as cool, clear waters surrounded by natural marble walls during a scorching summer's day. This will be a perfect stop if you are exploring the Dorset area, known for its charming village and farmers market.
Tip: Pack a picnic and spend a serene afternoon along the quarry. It's one of the best-kept secrets for a summer swim in Southern Vermont.
4. Weston: Vermont's Artistic Heart
Weston is a Southern Vermont cultural treasure and the home of the renowned Weston Playhouse Theatre Company. For art and theatre enthusiasts, this is a fairy tale come true with its vibrant art scene set against a picture-postcard backdrop. Make for the Vermont Country Store, a landmark that has sold to locals and travelers alike for generations. Pretty historic homes, charming shops, and scenic walking trails give this town a character of its own.
Hint: Enjoy a live performance at Weston Playhouse for an unforgettable evening; classic plays and contemporary works alike can be staged here.
5. Mount Equinox Skyline Drive: A Scenic Adventure
Take a drive up the mount for stunning views. Skyline Drive is one of the longest private, paved toll roads in the USA. It has great vistas around the Green Mountains and into the valleys below. A quiet monastery stands at the summit along with ample spots for a picnic. This is one of the better ways to take in Vermont's natural beauty-especially during its fall foliage season.
Tip: Don't forget your camera. Views from the top are absolutely great and provide fantastic photo opportunities.
6. Chester: A Victorian Gem
Chester houses a collection of Victorian homes, another gem in Southern Vermont ideal for weekend getaways. Attractive stone houses here date back to as early as the beginning of the 19th century in the Stone Village Historic District of this town. Take a leisurely walk around the village and check out the specifically designed homes, do a little browsing in the shops, and have lunch or a snack in a charming café. Chester has a rich arts scene to boot, with several galleries representing Vermont artisans.
Insider's Tip: If you can, try to catch the annual Chester Fall Festival for local craftsmanship, delicious food, and live music.
7. Jamaica State Park: Outdoor Adventure Awaits
To nature lovers, Jamaica State Park is a hidden paradise. Nestled in Southern Vermont, this park offers a bunch of outdoor activities, such as hiking and fishing, camping, and swimming. It serves as a home to the West River Trail, which is a venue for biking and hiking because of its well-scenic path. You will never want to leave the area without visiting Hamilton Falls-one of the most beautiful waterfalls in the midst of the park. Indeed, it is an appropriate place for quiet introspection amidst nature.
Tip: Go in the fall to witness beautiful fall foliage transform the whole park into a riot of color.
8. Secret Artisan Hangouts: Vermont's Craft Culture
There are artisanal producers galore, from cheesemakers to craft breweries throughout southern Vermont. Stop in and take a tour of your nearest farm or brewery and taste a little bit of Vermont. Sampling cheese in a small creamery or enjoying a freshly brewed beer in a cozy taproom - that's what any Vermont get-away is all about.
Tip: After Southern Vermont, head to Portland, Maine, for an alternate flavor. The city has some cool bars where unique cocktails and craft beers can be tried.
Conclusion
Southern Vermont is host to a number of special places that await the traveler in search of a memorable weekend. From the historic villages in Grafton and Weston to the panoramic views off of Mount Equinox, everything can be found in the greater Southern Vermont area. Whether one visits for historic villages, such as Grafton and Weston, or to take in breathtaking views off the top of Mount Equinox, there is something to amuse anyone. Natural beauty, rich history, and the flavor of vibrant local culture give the essence to Southern Vermont. If you go on tour, make it a point to get out of the usual places that people visit in Vermont and find these places, which is the essence of this area. As an added bonus for your adventure, go on a tour in Maine, which is nearby, or the hotspots of Vermont's food; you will be awed with their incredible experiences. Happy exploring!
