Things to Do in Addison County, Vermont
Nestled in the western part of Vermont, Addison County is renowned for its picturesque landscapes, historical sites, and vibrant communities. Bordered by the Green Mountains to the east and Lake Champlain to the west, the county offers diverse geography with lush farmlands, rolling hills, and scenic water views. Addison County enjoys a four-season climate, with warm summers, vibrant autumn foliage, snowy winters, and mild springs. Established in 1785, Addison County has a rich history rooted in agriculture, colonial settlements, and later as a cultural and educational hub with Middlebury College at its center. Today, it provides visitors a mix of outdoor adventures, historical landmarks, and cultural experiences that capture the essence of Vermont’s charm and heritage.
Historical Sites and Landmarks
Fort Ticonderoga
Located across Lake Champlain from Addison County, Fort Ticonderoga is a well-preserved historic military site. Established in the 18th century, it played a significant role during the French and Indian War and the American Revolution. Visitors can explore the fort’s impressive architecture, take guided tours, and learn about its rich history through reenactments and exhibits. The scenic views of Lake Champlain and the Green Mountains add to the experience, making it a must-visit for history enthusiasts.
Chimney Point State Historic Site
Chimney Point is one of Vermont’s oldest and most historic locations, tracing its roots back to pre-colonial Native American communities. The site offers a museum that highlights the area’s early Native American, French, and British settlers. Visitors can see artifacts from these eras and explore the restored 18th-century tavern. Chimney Point’s location along Lake Champlain provides a scenic backdrop and a deeper understanding of the region’s history.
UVM Morgan Horse Farm
The University of Vermont Morgan Horse Farm, located in Weybridge, is dedicated to preserving and promoting the Morgan horse breed, one of America’s oldest horse breeds. The farm offers guided tours where visitors can meet the horses, learn about the breed’s history, and witness training demonstrations. The beautiful grounds and historic barns make it an engaging and educational experience, especially for animal and history lovers.
Museums and Cultural Experiences
Middlebury College Museum of Art
The Middlebury College Museum of Art is a cultural gem in Addison County, featuring an impressive collection of art from around the world. The museum’s exhibits range from classical antiquities and Asian art to American and contemporary pieces. Admission is free, and the museum often hosts special events, lectures, and rotating exhibits. Art enthusiasts will find this museum a valuable resource for appreciating both local and global art.
Vermont Folklife Center
The Vermont Folklife Center in Middlebury is dedicated to preserving and promoting Vermont’s rich cultural heritage. Through exhibitions, workshops, and audio archives, the center showcases Vermont’s diverse traditions, storytelling, and folk art. Visitors can explore the multimedia exhibits and participate in workshops to learn about Vermont’s cultural roots and evolving community narratives.
Henry Sheldon Museum of Vermont History
The Henry Sheldon Museum, established in 1882, is one of the oldest community-based museums in the United States. Located in Middlebury, the museum features an extensive collection of artifacts, photographs, and documents that highlight the history of Addison County and Vermont. Visitors can explore exhibits on early settlers, Vermont’s industries, and historical events that shaped the region.
Outdoor Recreation and Nature
Green Mountain National Forest
The Green Mountain National Forest offers a variety of outdoor activities, from hiking and camping to birdwatching and winter sports. Trails like the Long Trail, which runs through the forest, provide breathtaking views of the mountains and valleys. In the fall, the forest transforms into a kaleidoscope of red, orange, and yellow, drawing leaf-peepers from all over. The forest’s diverse terrain accommodates hikers of all skill levels and offers year-round outdoor adventures.
Lake Dunmore
Lake Dunmore, located near Salisbury, is a popular destination for swimming, fishing, kayaking, and picnicking. The surrounding Branbury State Park provides campsites, sandy beaches, and hiking trails, making it an ideal spot for family outings. In the warmer months, visitors can rent kayaks and paddleboards to explore the lake, while fishing enthusiasts can enjoy catching bass, trout, and perch.
Snake Mountain
Snake Mountain, located near Addison and Weybridge, is a rewarding hike for outdoor enthusiasts. The trail to the summit is moderately challenging, but the effort is well worth it for the panoramic views of the Champlain Valley and the Adirondack Mountains. It’s especially popular during the fall when the foliage adds a colorful backdrop to the already stunning scenery.
Festivals and Community Events
Addison County Fair & Field Days
The Addison County Fair & Field Days is Vermont’s largest agricultural fair and a highlight of the summer season. Held annually in New Haven, the fair features livestock shows, horse pulling, tractor pulls, and a variety of agricultural exhibits. Visitors can enjoy carnival rides, food vendors, and live music while learning about the local farming community. It’s a family-friendly event that celebrates the agricultural heritage of the county.
Middlebury New Filmmakers Festival
The Middlebury New Filmmakers Festival (MNFF) is a prestigious event that showcases independent films by new and emerging filmmakers. Held each August, the festival draws filmmakers and film enthusiasts to Middlebury to enjoy screenings, panel discussions, and workshops. It’s a unique opportunity to experience the world of independent cinema in a scenic Vermont setting.
Vermont Maple Festival
Although hosted nearby in St. Albans, the Vermont Maple Festival is celebrated across the state, including Addison County. The festival takes place each spring and celebrates Vermont’s famous maple syrup industry. Visitors can sample a variety of maple products, watch syrup-making demonstrations, and participate in fun activities like pancake breakfasts and sugarhouse tours.
Arts and Entertainment
Town Hall Theater in Middlebury
The Town Hall Theater in Middlebury is a community-based performing arts venue that hosts a variety of shows, including plays, concerts, and dance performances. The theater frequently collaborates with local artists, bringing high-quality productions to Addison County. It’s a wonderful place to enjoy live entertainment in a historic building that has been beautifully restored.
Vergennes Opera House
The Vergennes Opera House is a historic theater that has been serving the community since the late 1800s. Today, it hosts a range of cultural events, including musical performances, plays, and community gatherings. The opera house’s architecture and ambiance create a unique atmosphere for enjoying the arts in Vermont’s oldest city, Vergennes.
Art on Main Gallery
Located in Bristol, Art on Main is a community-supported gallery that features the work of local Vermont artists. The gallery showcases a range of media, including painting, sculpture, pottery, and jewelry. It’s a great place to discover unique, handcrafted items and support local artists. The gallery often hosts artist receptions and workshops, providing an interactive experience for visitors.
Shopping and Dining
Middlebury Farmers’ Market
The Middlebury Farmers’ Market is a vibrant gathering place that offers fresh produce, local meats, baked goods, and artisan products. Open seasonally, the market features vendors from across Addison County, allowing visitors to sample the best of Vermont’s agricultural bounty. It’s an excellent spot to pick up fresh ingredients, handmade crafts, and unique Vermont treats.
Vergennes Main Street Shopping
Vergennes, Vermont’s smallest city, is packed with charm and offers a delightful shopping experience along its Main Street. Visitors can explore boutique shops selling handmade crafts, antiques, and Vermont-made products. The historic buildings add to the ambiance, making it a memorable shopping destination in Addison County.
Farm-to-Table Dining Experiences
Addison County boasts a variety of farm-to-table dining options that highlight the region’s local produce. Restaurants like American Flatbread in Middlebury and Black Sheep Bistro in Vergennes offer menus featuring fresh, seasonal ingredients sourced from nearby farms. Dining in Addison County is a chance to experience authentic Vermont flavors with an emphasis on sustainability and quality.
Scenic Drives and Exploration
Lake Champlain Byway
The Lake Champlain Byway runs along the western edge of Addison County, offering stunning views of Lake Champlain and the Adirondack Mountains. The byway passes through charming towns like Vergennes and Addison, with plenty of scenic overlooks and historic sites along the way. It’s a beautiful drive, especially in the fall when the foliage is at its peak.
Covered Bridges Tour
Addison County is home to several historic covered bridges, including the Pulp Mill Covered Bridge and the Halpin Covered Bridge. A self-guided tour of these covered bridges provides a picturesque journey through Vermont’s rural landscape and offers opportunities for photography and picnicking along the way.
Family-Friendly Activities
Middlebury Recreation Park
Middlebury Recreation Park offers a variety of amenities for families, including playgrounds, sports fields, a skate park, and picnic areas. The park also has walking trails and hosts seasonal events, making it a lively spot for families to relax and enjoy outdoor activities.
Maple Landmark Woodcraft
Maple Landmark Woodcraft in Middlebury is a family-owned business that produces high-quality wooden toys, games, and puzzles. Visitors can take a factory tour to see how these toys are made, learn about the craftsmanship involved, and shop for unique Vermont-made gifts. Kids and adults alike will enjoy the hands-on exhibits and the chance to pick out a handcrafted toy.
Nature and Wildlife
Dead Creek Wildlife Management Area
Dead Creek Wildlife Management Area is a prime spot for birdwatching and wildlife observation. Located in Addison, the area is especially popular during the fall migration when thousands of snow geese make a stop here. Walking trails and observation areas make it easy for visitors to enjoy the natural beauty and spot a variety of bird species.
Button Bay State Park
Button Bay State Park, situated along the shores of Lake Champlain, is a great spot for swimming, picnicking, and camping. The park features trails that lead to scenic overlooks, and the shallow waters make it ideal for families. Kayak rentals are available for those who want to explore the bay, and the park’s location provides beautiful sunset views over the lake.
Themed Tours and Unique Experiences
Vermont Cheese Trail
Addison County is part of the Vermont Cheese Trail, which guides visitors through the state’s top artisan cheesemakers. Local dairies like Blue Ledge Farm in Leicester produce a variety of delicious cheeses using traditional methods. Visitors can tour the facilities, sample different cheeses, and learn about Vermont’s thriving cheese industry.
Vermont Beer Trail
Vermont is known for its craft beer, and Addison County is home to several breweries that are part of the Vermont Beer Trail. Breweries like Drop-In Brewing and Otter Creek Brewing in Middlebury offer tastings, tours, and a relaxed atmosphere for enjoying a refreshing pint. The Vermont Beer Trail is a fun way to experience the state’s craft brewing culture.
Adventure and Outdoor Sports
Nordic and Downhill Skiing
Addison County offers excellent skiing opportunities during the winter months. The Rikert Nordic Center in Ripton provides miles of groomed trails for cross-country skiing, snowshoeing, and fat biking. For downhill skiing, the nearby Middlebury College Snow Bowl offers slopes suitable for all skill levels, with a friendly atmosphere and stunning mountain views.
Biking Through the Champlain Valley
The flat terrain of the Champlain Valley makes it an ideal destination for cycling. Biking routes take riders through farmland, past historic sites, and along scenic lake views. The backroads and quiet lanes provide a peaceful ride with plenty of opportunities to stop and enjoy the scenery.
Culinary Adventures
Vermont Maple Sugarhouses
Addison County is home to several sugarhouses where visitors can learn about Vermont’s famous maple syrup industry. During sugaring season in early spring, sugarhouses like Bread Loaf View Farm welcome guests to see the syrup-making process in action. Visitors can sample fresh maple syrup and other maple products like candies and cream.
Apple Orchards and Cider Tasting
In the fall, apple picking and cider tasting are popular activities in Addison County. Local orchards like Happy Valley Orchard offer pick-your-own apples and fresh cider. Some cideries even offer hard cider tastings, giving visitors a taste of Vermont’s apple heritage.
Exploring Nearby Attractions
Mount Philo State Park
Just a short drive from Addison County, Mount Philo State Park offers a scenic hike with panoramic views of Lake Champlain and the surrounding valley. The hike to the summit is moderate and accessible, making it a favorite for families and casual hikers. The view from the top is especially stunning in the fall.
Shelburne Museum
The Shelburne Museum, located nearby, is one of Vermont’s most unique attractions. The museum features an eclectic collection of art, Americana, and historical buildings, including a steamboat and a covered bridge. It’s a fun and educational day trip from Addison County that offers something for all ages.
Wellness and Relaxation
Spa at Basin Harbor Club
For those seeking relaxation, the Spa at Basin Harbor Club offers massages, facials, and wellness treatments. The lakeside setting provides a tranquil environment, making it an ideal retreat for a day of pampering and rejuvenation.
Yoga in Nature
Yoga studios and wellness centers in Addison County often host outdoor yoga classes during the summer months. Practicing yoga in scenic locations, such as by Lake Champlain or in a forested setting, provides a peaceful experience for visitors looking to connect with nature.
Artisanal Workshops and Crafts
Pottery and Art Studios
Addison County has a thriving arts community, with several pottery studios and art workshops open to the public. Studios like Middlebury Studio School offer pottery classes where visitors can create their own ceramic pieces. It’s a hands-on way to experience Vermont’s artisan culture and create a unique souvenir.
Quilting and Fiber Arts
Vermont has a rich tradition of quilting, and Addison County celebrates this craft with quilting workshops and fabric stores. Shops like the Yankee Pride Quilts in nearby Essex Junction offer supplies and classes for all skill levels, allowing visitors to learn a new craft and appreciate Vermont’s fiber arts heritage.
