Hardwick VermontATTRACTIONS & THINGS TO DO
Listed below are the best attractions and things to do near Hardwick, Vermont.
1. Lamoille Valley Rail Trail
SCENIC OUTDOOR PATHWAY
The Lamoille Valley Rail Trail is one of the top attractions in Hardwick, offering a beautiful pathway for hiking, biking, and other outdoor activities. Visitors can enjoy scenic views of Vermont's countryside while traversing this converted railway path. The trail provides opportunities for year-round recreation, including snowmobiling and cross-country skiing in winter months.
2. Highland Center for the Arts
CULTURAL PERFORMANCE VENUE
The Highland Center for the Arts serves as a cultural hub in Hardwick, hosting various performances, exhibitions, and community events. This modern facility features a theater, gallery spaces, and a café where visitors can immerse themselves in the local arts scene. The center regularly showcases talent from across Vermont and beyond, making it a must-visit destination for arts enthusiasts.
3. Caspian Lake
PRISTINE MOUNTAIN WATERS
Caspian Lake is a beautiful natural attraction near Hardwick, offering swimming, fishing, and boating opportunities in its crystal-clear waters. This pristine lake spans approximately 789 acres and is surrounded by picturesque Vermont landscape. Visitors can enjoy the public beach area or launch their own watercraft to explore the scenic shoreline.
4. Hardwick Trails
FORESTED RECREATION PATHS
Hardwick Trails offers an extensive network of paths through Vermont's beautiful forests for hiking, mountain biking, and snowshoeing. The trails are well-maintained by local volunteers and provide varying levels of difficulty for outdoor enthusiasts of all abilities. Visitors can enjoy seasonal activities year-round while experiencing the natural beauty of Vermont's Northeast Kingdom.
5. Grass Roots Art and Community Effort (GRACE)
FOLK ART GALLERY
GRACE is a unique art gallery in Hardwick that showcases self-taught artists and promotes creative expression in the community. The gallery features compelling works from artists of diverse backgrounds, often highlighting unconventional perspectives and techniques. Visitors can explore changing exhibitions that celebrate the power of art as a tool for personal and community growth.
6. Master Fin's Axe Throwing
COMPETITIVE SKILL ACTIVITY
Master Fin's Axe Throwing offers visitors a chance to try their hand at the increasingly popular sport of axe throwing in a safe, supervised environment. Participants can learn proper throwing techniques and engage in friendly competition at this unique Hardwick attraction. The facility provides all equipment needed and is suitable for beginners and experienced throwers alike.
7. Hardwick Historical Society
LOCAL HISTORY MUSEUM
The Hardwick Historical Society preserves and shares the rich history of this Northeast Kingdom town through exhibits, archives, and educational programs. Housed in a historic building, the society maintains collections of photographs, documents, and artifacts that tell the story of Hardwick's development. Visitors can learn about the town's granite industry, agricultural heritage, and the lives of past residents.
8. White Water Gallery
CONTEMPORARY ART SPACE
White Water Gallery showcases contemporary art from local and regional artists in a welcoming Hardwick venue. The gallery hosts rotating exhibitions featuring various mediums including painting, sculpture, photography, and mixed media works. Visitors can engage with Vermont's vibrant art scene and often meet the creators during regular opening receptions and artist talks.
9. Fisher Covered Railroad Bridge
HISTORIC WOODEN STRUCTURE
The Fisher Covered Railroad Bridge stands as a testament to Hardwick's rich transportation history and traditional New England architecture. Visitors can walk across this wooden structure and admire its craftsmanship while imagining the trains that once traversed it. The bridge serves as both a functional crossing and a reminder of Vermont's industrial past, making it a popular spot for history enthusiasts and photographers.
10. Hardwick Lake
PEACEFUL WATER RECREATION
Hardwick Lake offers visitors a tranquil setting for swimming, fishing, and relaxation surrounded by Vermont's natural beauty. The lake features crystal-clear waters and lush green surroundings that create a perfect backdrop for outdoor activities. Visitors can enjoy lakeside trails, picnic areas, and water recreation in this scenic Hardwick destination.
11. Galaxy Bookshop
INDEPENDENT LITERARY HAVEN
The Galaxy Bookshop is a cherished independent bookstore in downtown Hardwick offering a carefully curated selection of titles for all ages. This literary haven hosts regular author events, book clubs, and community gatherings that celebrate the written word. Visitors can browse the shelves, discover local authors, and experience the warm, welcoming atmosphere that has made this shop a cornerstone of Hardwick's cultural life.
12. Vermont Glass Workshop
ARTISANAL CRAFT STUDIO
Vermont Glass Workshop invites visitors to witness the mesmerizing art of glassblowing in Hardwick. The studio showcases skilled artisans creating beautiful glass pieces using traditional techniques and modern innovations. Visitors can purchase unique handcrafted items and sometimes participate in workshops to learn about this ancient craft.
13. Positive Pie Hardwick
LOCAL CULINARY DESTINATION
Positive Pie Hardwick serves as both a culinary destination and community gathering place in the heart of town. The restaurant offers artisanal pizzas, craft beers, and other locally-inspired fare in a welcoming atmosphere. Visitors can enjoy a meal while experiencing Hardwick's farm-to-table food culture that has put this small Vermont town on the culinary map.
14. Cabot Creamery Visitors Center
ICONIC CHEESE DESTINATION
The Cabot Creamery Visitors Center, located near Hardwick, offers an immersive experience into Vermont's renowned dairy industry. Visitors can tour the facility to learn about cheese production, sample award-winning products, and purchase freshly made cheeses. The center highlights the cooperative's century-long commitment to quality and the important role of local dairy farmers in Vermont's agricultural economy.
15. Hill Farmstead Brewery
WORLD-CLASS CRAFT BEER
Hill Farmstead Brewery, located a short drive from Hardwick, has earned international acclaim as one of the world's best craft breweries. Visitors can sample exceptional beers made with local ingredients and traditional methods in a rustic Vermont setting. The brewery represents the Northeast Kingdom's commitment to artisanal production and has become a pilgrimage site for beer enthusiasts from around the globe.