Brandon VermontATTRACTIONS & THINGS TO DO
Listed below are the best attractions and things to do near Brandon, Vermont.
1. Brandon Museum
LOCAL HISTORY HUB
The Brandon Museum provides insight into the town's unique history, including its industry, business, early architecture, and important role in the 19th-century anti-slavery movement. Housed in a charming building that also serves as a visitors center, the museum provides exhibits and resources for history enthusiasts. It is a thoughtful stop for those interested in understanding Brandon's past and the broader history of the region.
2. Brandon Artists' Guild
LOCAL ART COLLECTIVE
The Brandon Artists' Guild showcases fine art and crafts from more than 30 talented local makers, highlighting the vibrant creative culture of the town. Visitors can browse and purchase unique artworks, from paintings to pottery and jewelry. The guild's gallery is an essential stop for art lovers exploring Brandon.
3. Foley Brothers Brewing
CRAFT BEER DESTINATION
Foley Brothers Brewing is a family-run brewery making acclaimed IPAs, dark beers, and specialty brews right in Brandon. With a laid-back tasting room, visitors enjoy sampling a rotating selection of fresh, locally crafted beers. The brewery's commitment to quality ingredients and creative recipes makes it a favorite for beer enthusiasts.
4. Moosalamoo National Recreation Area
OUTDOOR ADVENTURE HAVEN
The Moosalamoo National Recreation Area spans nearly 16,000 acres and offers hiking, mountain biking, birding, camping, and winter sports just outside Brandon. Visitors can easily access a variety of trails and scenic natural landscapes, making it ideal for outdoor recreation in every season. Its proximity to Brandon provides a convenient base for wilderness exploration.
5. Café Provence
FRENCH CULINARY DELIGHT
Café Provence brings French-inspired dining and cooking classes to downtown Brandon with a menu built on fresh, local ingredients. Renowned for its award-winning cuisine, the restaurant offers a sophisticated yet inviting atmosphere. Patrons can enjoy everything from casual lunches to elegant dinners with a European flair.
6. Branbury State Park
LAKE AND MOUNTAIN RETREAT
Branbury State Park features 69 acres of public land on the shores of Lake Dunmore at the edge of the Green Mountain National Forest. The park offers camping, swimming, paddling, hiking, and boat rentals, making it a popular spot for both relaxation and outdoor adventure. Its scenic location is perfect for families and nature lovers visiting the area.
7. Mount Horrid Observation Site
SCENIC VISTAS & HIKING
Mount Horrid Observation Site is known for its breathtaking views from the Great Cliff, accessible via a short but steep hiking trail. Birdwatchers frequent the site to spot peregrine falcons nesting on the cliffs. The area's dramatic landscape makes it a memorable destination for hikers and photographers.
8. Brandon Music
LIVE PERFORMANCE VENUE
Brandon Music is a celebrated venue for live music performances, featuring both regional and national artists in an intimate atmosphere. The space also includes a gallery and offers pre-concert dinners for a full cultural experience. Music lovers enjoy a diverse lineup ranging from jazz to classical and folk.
9. Stephen A. Douglas Birthplace
HISTORIC BIRTHPLACE LANDMARK
The Stephen A. Douglas Birthplace preserves the childhood home of the famed 19th-century politician and statesman Stephen A. Douglas. Now a museum, the site features period furnishings and exhibits detailing Douglas's life and career. It provides a fascinating glimpse into the roots of a key figure in American history.
10. Otter Valley Winery
LOCAL WINE EXPERIENCE
Otter Valley Winery offers tastings of locally produced wines in a rustic, welcoming setting just outside Brandon's center. Guests can explore the vineyard, learn about winemaking, and sample unique varietals, all crafted from Vermont-grown grapes. The winery is an excellent stop for those interested in local agriculture and Vermont's burgeoning wine scene.
11. Neshobe River Winery
WINERY & VINEYARD RETREAT
Neshobe River Winery is a delightful spot offering tastings of wines and craft beverages made on-site, set amid picturesque rural surroundings. Visitors can take part in tours, tastings, and enjoy views of the adjacent vineyards and countryside. The winery is also home to a small inn, providing a relaxing getaway for guests.
12. Maple View Farm Alpacas
FAMILY-FRIENDLY ALPACA FARM
Maple View Farm Alpacas invites visitors to meet, feed, and learn about alpacas in a fun, family-oriented setting. The farm also offers a shop selling alpaca wool products, making for a unique Vermont souvenir. Educational tours showcase the care and breeding of these gentle animals.
13. Kennedy Park
RIVERSIDE RECREATION AREA
Kennedy Park is a scenic outlook above the upper falls of the Neshobe River, favored by plein air artists and picnickers alike. The park's serene environment and beautiful views make it a pleasant place for a stroll or quiet reflection. Its central location offers easy access for those exploring downtown Brandon.
14. Brandon Town Hall
HISTORIC COMMUNITY VENUE
Brandon Town Hall stands as an iconic Greek-columned building, representing the town's architectural heritage and community spirit. Today, it serves as a venue for performances, meetings, and cultural events throughout the year. Its impressive facade and interior auditorium are hallmarks of Brandon's historic charm.
15. Vergennes Opera House
PERFORMING ARTS THEATER
Vergennes Opera House is a beautifully restored historic theater in nearby Vergennes, offering live concerts, plays, and special events. The elegant venue attracts both local audiences and performers from across Vermont. Attending a show here provides a wonderful taste of the region's cultural offerings.