Bristol Vermont
ATTRACTIONS & THINGS TO DO
Listed below are the best attractions and things to do near Bristol, Vermont.
1. Green Mountains
PEAKS AND TRAILS | VERMONT VT
The Green Mountains form the backbone of Vermont's landscape with peaks like Mount Mansfield offering panoramic views year-round. Attractions include the Long Trail for hikers, ski resorts such as Jay Peak, and cultural sites like Hildene in Manchester. Covered bridges and maple farms add to the region's allure for visitors.
2. Lake Champlain
REEL AND RELAX | NORTHWEST VERMONT
Famous for its world-class fishing, Lake Champlain attracts anglers from across Vermont and beyond. Visitors can enjoy casting their lines at Grand Isle State Park, paddleboarding at Sand Bar State Park, or exploring interactive exhibits at ECHO Leahy Center. With attractions like Waterfront Park and Church Street Marketplace, this destination offers a mix of natural beauty and local charm.
3. Ski Resorts
MOUNTAIN MEMORIES | VERMONT
Skiing in Vermont offers a unique blend of thrilling outdoor activities and cozy mountain charm. Mount Snow Grand Summit Resort and Jay Peak Resort provide exceptional trails, terrain parks, and aprés-ski options for families and solo travelers alike. Surrounded by stunning winter scenery, Vermont ski resorts create memories to last a lifetime.
4. Covered Bridges
VINTAGE BEAUTY | VERMONT
Vermont's covered bridges are timeless symbols of the state's rural heritage, with many dating back to the 1800s. Popular attractions include the Paper Mill Village Bridge and Ashuelot Covered Bridge, which showcase exceptional craftsmanship and scenic surroundings. Visitors can enjoy these historic sites while exploring nearby hiking trails and charming towns.
5. Idyllic Small Towns
SCENIC RETREATS | VERMONT
The small towns of Vermont are celebrated for their scenic landscapes and welcoming communities. From Woodstock's covered bridges to Middlebury's vibrant arts scene and Warren's mountain escapes, each town has its own unique appeal. Visitors can enjoy outdoor activities, local cuisine, and a peaceful retreat in these picturesque settings.
6. Vermont Maple Syrup
SWEET TRADITIONS | VERMONT
Vermont sugar houses are celebrated for their rich history and exceptional maple syrup production. At places like The Robb Family Farm Sugar House and Shelburne Sugarworks, visitors can enjoy guided tours and learn about the craftsmanship behind each bottle of syrup. These family-run establishments showcase Vermont's passion for quality and tradition.
7. Artisan Cheese Heritage
HANDCRAFTED FLAVORS | VERMONT
Vermont's artisan cheese heritage showcases an array of creameries, from the historic Crowley Cheese Company to the innovative Cellars at Jasper Hill. Popular attractions like Dakin Farm and Maplebrook Farm offer visitors a chance to savor handcrafted cheeses while learning about traditional techniques. This journey through Vermont's cheesemaking culture is a feast for the senses.
8. Craft Beer
FLAVORFUL JOURNEYS | VERMONT
Known for its vibrant craft beer culture, Vermont features iconic breweries such as Burlington Beer Company and Madison Brewing Company Pub & Restaurant. Foam Brewers and Zero Gravity Brewery in Burlington offer creative options in a bustling city setting, while rural gems like Rek-Lis Brewing Company provide cozy charm. Vermont's craft beer scene is a must-visit for flavor and fun.
9. Farm-to-Table Restaurants
REGIONAL FLAVORS | VERMONT
Vermont's Farm-to-Table Restaurants provide a culinary adventure that celebrates fresh ingredients and regional traditions. Murdock's on the Green delivers hearty meals with a focus on local sourcing, while Starry Night Café enchants diners with its artistic presentation and seasonal flavors. Each visit promises a taste of Vermont's vibrant food scene.
10. Fall Foliage Viewing
AUTUMN WONDERS | VERMONT
Vermont's fall foliage offers an awe-inspiring display of color that defines the autumn season in New England. Attractions such as Burke Mountain Toll Road, Stowe Pinnacle, and Ethan Allen Tower showcase the state's natural beauty at its peak. Visitors can explore vibrant landscapes through scenic drives, hikes, or visits to quaint towns surrounded by fiery foliage.
11. Hiking Trails
HIKER'S HAVEN | VERMONT
Vermont's hiking trails offer something for everyone, from the challenging Killington Peak Trail to the relaxing Thundering Brook Falls Trail. Adventurers can explore iconic landmarks like Camel's Hump and Mount Pisgah or enjoy peaceful strolls through Wiessner Woods. With breathtaking views and diverse terrain, Vermont is a top destination for nature lovers.
12. Cycling And Mountain Biking
CYCLIST'S DREAM | VERMONT
From the famous Kingdom Trails to the scenic Island Line Trail, Vermont offers a mix of flowy singletracks and challenging climbs. Riders can enjoy breathtaking views at Slate Valley Trails or tackle technical descents at Perry Hill. With its diverse terrain, Vermont is a top destination for cycling enthusiasts.
13. Kayaking And Canoeing
LAKE AND RIVER | VERMONT
Vermont's diverse waterscapes make it a top destination for kayaking and canoeing, from expansive lakes to winding rivers. Clyde River Recreation delivers rentals to sites like Crystal Lake, while Vermont Canoe & Kayak organizes tours such as the Morning Maple Paddle on the Lamoille River. These adventures showcase Vermont's natural beauty at its finest.
14. Fishing
FISHING ESCAPES | VERMONT
Vermont's fishing scene is a blend of serenity and excitement, with hotspots like Lake Bomoseen and the Winooski River drawing anglers year-round. Lake Memphremagog offers a unique cross-border fishing experience, while Weatherhead Hollow Pond is perfect for a quiet day of casting. From small ponds to vast lakes, Vermont provides endless opportunities for fishing enthusiasts.
15. Camping
PICTURESQUE CAMPING | VERMONT
Whether seeking adventure or tranquility, Vermont offers exceptional camping options like Smugglers Notch State Park with its dramatic cliffs or Lake Champlain for water recreation. Each campground showcases the state's picturesque scenery and outdoor appeal year-round.
16. Golf Courses
COURSE VARIETY | VERMONT VT
Vermont's golf scene is defined by its balance of natural beauty and expert course design, making it a must-visit destination for enthusiasts. Highlights include Stratton Mountain Resort's 27-hole layout and the scenic Woodstock Country Club nestled in Kedron Valley. With options ranging from beginner-friendly to highly challenging, Vermont caters to every golfer's needs.
17. Scenic Drives
SUMMIT VIEWS | VERMONT VT
Vermont's byways offer an enchanting mix of rugged mountains and serene valleys. Routes such as Mount Mansfield Auto Toll Road lead to summit views while others wind through picturesque towns like Manchester and Bennington. These drives capture the essence of Vermont's outdoor allure and cultural treasures.
18. Shopping Attractions
LOCAL MARKETS | VERMONT VT
Vermont's diverse shopping attractions cater to all interests with their charming blend of tradition and innovation. Visit Simon Pearce Mill for glassblowing artistry, Brattleboro Farmers Market for local produce, or Al Ducci's Italian Pantry for gourmet delights. Every visit promises quality goods in scenic surroundings.
19. Historical Sites
WINDOWS TO THE PAST | VERMONT
Vermont's historical sites open windows to the past, offering visitors a chance to explore its rich and diverse history. Highlights include Plymouth Notch, where Calvin Coolidge took the presidential oath, and Mount Independence, a key Revolutionary War site. Each location immerses visitors in history with well-preserved structures, artifacts, and engaging storytelling.
20. Museums And Galleries
CULTURAL INSIGHTS | VERMONT
Vermont's museums and galleries offer deep insights into the state's cultural evolution and artistic achievements. The Rokeby Museum highlights Vermont's role in the Underground Railroad, while the Southern Vermont Arts Center showcases works by international and local artists. These spaces invite visitors to engage with stories that shape Vermont's identity.