7 Most Historic Small Towns to Visit in Vermont
For those who love history and nature equally, beautiful Vermont may be the perfect state for your summer vacation or weekend getaway. The small New England state is vast, with miles of forested mountain terrain that beckon hikers and bikers from all over, as well as over 100 bridges that date back to the 19th Century. The state, famous for its high-quality maple syrup production, is also home to many charming small towns that boast historic downtowns worth exploring. Check out this unique state that was integral to burgeoning American history, while featuring lovely landscapes and plenty of attractions.
Montpelier
Known as "America's Smallest Capital City," Montpelier was settled in 1787 and is a unique and interesting place to visit any time of the year. While in Montpelier, a fascinating historical landmark or attraction is never far away. Two of the town's most popular sites are the Vermont State House, which was constructed in 1833, and the Vermont History Museum, which offers a well-rounded look into the state's rich heritage. Montpelier's historic district is replete with quaint places to shop and dine, such as locally owned boutiques and cafes, and antique stores. If you want to get outside a bit during your trip, check out the 194-acre Hubbard Park, a nature preserve offering scenic trails for hiking and biking and picnic sites for al fresco dining.
St. Johnsbury
Situated on the scenic Passumpsic River, St. Johnsbury was founded in the 1780s and is now home to just under 8,000 residents. Although small, the town has no shortage of historic sites, some of which are listed on the National Register of Historic Places. Beyond that, the town features family-friendly attractions and miles of natural beauty. St. Johnsbury's downtown district is home to Vermont's only planetarium: the Fairbanks Museum and Planetarium. The exciting destination is the perfect place to learn about the state's unique history and space exploration all under one roof. Other sites worth exploring include the Franklin Fairbanks House and the St. Johnsbury Atheneum, which dates back to 1871. The Railroad Street Historic District is another must-see spot in town.
Bennington
Beautiful Bennington has the unique honor of being Vermont's oldest town and celebrates it with an abundance of historic sites and landmarks, as well as museums and a charming downtown brimming with one-of-a-kind shops and eateries serving local fare. The town was the site of an important battleground during the American War of Independence in the late 1770s, and you can dive into the interesting history by visiting the Bennington Battle Monument. Standing at 306 feet tall, the historic landmark is the state's tallest structure. History lovers can also check out the Park McCullough Historic House, a Victorian-style mansion dating back to 1864, and the Old First Church, which was built in 1804.
Woodstock
Located in the heart of Vermont, Woodstock offers visitors a mix of exciting outdoor recreational opportunities, such as alpine skiing and snowboarding, and a rich history dating back to its founding in 1761. One exciting activity that combines the best of the town's natural beauty and history, strap on snowshoes and explore the Marsh-Billings-Rockefeller National Historical Park. The park offers miles of trails, as well as stunning rocky cliff views. Other historical landmarks include the Marsh Billings Mansion, constructed in 1805 and shares an interesting peek into life during the 19th Century. The Lincoln Covered Bridge dates back to 1877 and is listed on the National Register of Historic Places. The landmark is significant because it's one of the country's only remaining wooden Pratt truss bridges.
Manchester
There are so many fascinating historic sites and attractions to see and experience in quaint Manchester that you may not know where to start exploring. The southern Vermont town was settled in the 1760s and has deep roots in the country's colonial past. Visitors come from all over to view the former estate of 16th President Abraham Lincoln, which consists of a Georgian Revival mansion, a sprawling farm, and eye-catching gardens. Another historical attraction to check out is the Bennington County Courthouse, a building that dates back to 1822. Take a stroll down the Manchester Village Historic District to view buildings from the 19th Century, and spend a day or two exploring the nearby Green Mountain National Forest.
Stowe
Tucked away in breathtaking northern Vermont, sweet Stowe is surrounded by Mount Mansfield and the Green Mountains, both of which are revered for their ski slopes and hiking trails. Established in the 1760s, Stowe is dubbed the "Ski Capital of the East" and is home to the charming and cozy Stowe Mountain Resort, founded in the 1930s. If you visit the historic town during the warm summer months, meander down the Stowe Recreation Trail, taking in lush local flora and fauna. History lovers won't want to miss the Ski and Snowboard Museum or a visit to the Trapp Family Lodge, where you can participate in a variety of recreational activities all year long.
Windsor
Founded in the 1760s, lovely Windsor is known as the "Birthplace of Vermont" since it was where the Constitution of Vermont was drafted in 1777. The quaint small town is also home to the longest two-lane covered bridge in the country, and it spans the scenic Connecticut River. The Cornish-Windsor Covered Bridge connects the towns of New Hampshire and Vermont and makes a scenic drive at any time of the year. History enthusiasts will also delight in visiting the Old Constitution House, built in 1777, while arts and culture lovers can spend time in the pretty Path of Life Sculpture Garden. If you happen to visitor Windsor in July, don't miss the annual West Windsor Music Festival!
No matter what region of the stunning "Green Mountain State" you find yourself traveling through, you are promised to find a charming, historic small town to spend time in. Whether you want to ski the slopes in Bennington or learn about the Lincoln family in Manchester, Vermont's historic and naturally beautiful hometowns await your discovery. It is worth noting that Vermont is an especially fascinating state for those who have a special interest in colonial times and early American history!
