Leicester VermontATTRACTIONS & THINGS TO DO
Listed below are the best attractions and things to do near Leicester, Vermont.
1. Silver Lake Trail
SCENIC MOUNTAIN HIKING PATH
Silver Lake Trail is a popular hiking destination in Leicester that offers a complete outdoor experience. The trail features a challenging 1-mile uphill climb followed by an interesting 3-mile loop around the lake with breathtaking views. Hikers can enjoy diverse terrain and natural beauty throughout the journey.
2. Maple View Farm Alpacas
FRIENDLY ALPACA EXPERIENCE
Maple View Farm Alpacas provides visitors with a unique opportunity to meet and learn about alpacas in Leicester. This highly-rated farm (5.0/5.0) offers educational tours where guests can interact with these gentle animals. Visitors can also browse alpaca products and learn about sustainable farming practices.
3. Branbury State Park
LAKESIDE RECREATION AREA
Branbury State Park is a recreational haven in Leicester offering diverse outdoor activities throughout the seasons. The park features beach access, swimming areas, picnic facilities, and hiking trails for visitors to enjoy. Its natural beauty and lakeside setting make it a popular destination for both locals and tourists.
4. Compass Music and Arts Center
CREATIVE CULTURAL HUB
Compass Music and Arts Center serves as Leicester's cultural hub with a perfect 5.0 rating from visitors. The center offers a variety of artistic exhibitions, musical performances, and creative workshops throughout the year. Visitors appreciate the center's commitment to supporting local artists and providing enriching cultural experiences.
5. Neshobe Golf Club
SCENIC GOLF EXPERIENCE
Neshobe Golf Club offers golfers a picturesque course nestled in the beautiful Vermont landscape of Leicester. The well-maintained grounds provide both challenge and enjoyment for players of various skill levels. Visitors can enjoy the clubhouse amenities and take in the stunning natural surroundings while playing a round.
6. Fort Ticonderoga
HISTORIC MILITARY FORTRESS
Fort Ticonderoga is a historic 18th-century military fortress located near Leicester across Lake Champlain. The fort played a significant role in both the French and Indian War and the American Revolution, now serving as a living history museum. Visitors can explore the reconstructed fort, view military demonstrations, and learn about early American history through interactive exhibits.
7. Lake Dunmore
PRISTINE MOUNTAIN LAKE
Lake Dunmore is a beautiful freshwater lake located near Leicester offering year-round recreational opportunities. The lake features clear waters perfect for swimming, fishing, boating, and other water activities during warmer months. In winter, the frozen lake and surrounding area transform into a playground for ice fishing, skating, and cross-country skiing.
8. Mount Independence State Historic Site
REVOLUTIONARY WAR LANDMARK
Mount Independence State Historic Site preserves the remains of a Revolutionary War fortification near Leicester. This strategic military position was built in 1776 to protect against British invasion from Canada and worked in conjunction with Fort Ticonderoga. Visitors can explore interpretive trails, view archaeological remains, and visit the museum to learn about this significant period in American history.
9. Middlebury College
PRESTIGIOUS LIBERAL ARTS CAMPUS
Middlebury College is a renowned liberal arts institution located near Leicester with a beautiful campus featuring distinctive Vermont architecture. The college offers various cultural attractions open to the public including the Middlebury College Museum of Art and the Mahaney Arts Center. Visitors can enjoy walking tours of the historic campus, attend performances, or explore the college's ecological initiatives including its organic farm.
10. UVM Morgan Horse Farm
HISTORIC EQUESTRIAN CENTER
UVM Morgan Horse Farm is dedicated to the preservation and breeding of America's first horse breed, the Morgan. The farm, established in 1878, offers guided tours where visitors can learn about these magnificent horses and their historical significance. The picturesque 215-acre property features historic barns and provides educational opportunities about equine management and Vermont's agricultural heritage.
11. Vermont Folklife Center
CULTURAL HERITAGE MUSEUM
The Vermont Folklife Center documents and preserves the cultural traditions of Vermont through exhibitions, archives, and educational programs. Located near Leicester in Middlebury, this cultural institution houses extensive collections of oral histories, photographs, and artifacts representing Vermont's diverse communities. Visitors can explore changing exhibits, participate in workshops, and gain insight into the authentic cultural expressions of Vermont's people.
12. Otter Creek Brewing
CRAFT BEER DESTINATION
Otter Creek Brewing is one of Vermont's pioneering craft breweries located a short drive from Leicester. The brewery offers guided tours where visitors can learn about the brewing process and sample a variety of award-winning beers. Their taproom provides a relaxed atmosphere to enjoy fresh brews along with local food offerings.
13. Henry Sheldon Museum
VERMONT'S OLDEST COMMUNITY MUSEUM
The Henry Sheldon Museum stands as Vermont's oldest community-based museum, founded in 1882 and located near Leicester in Middlebury. The museum occupies a beautiful Federal-style building and houses an extensive collection of artifacts, archival materials, and fine art documenting the history of Addison County. Visitors can explore the museum's period rooms, changing exhibitions, and research library to gain insight into Vermont's rich cultural heritage.
14. Dead Creek Wildlife Management Area
PREMIER BIRD WATCHING SITE
Dead Creek Wildlife Management Area is a renowned conservation site that serves as a crucial stopover for migratory birds, particularly snow geese. The area encompasses over 2,800 acres of wetlands, fields, and forests that provide habitat for diverse wildlife species. Visitors can observe spectacular bird migrations, hike nature trails, and participate in seasonal hunting activities in accordance with state regulations.
15. Rokeby Museum
UNDERGROUND RAILROAD HERITAGE
Rokeby Museum preserves a historic farm that served as a station on the Underground Railroad, helping enslaved people escape to freedom. The 90-acre property features the preserved Robinson family home, outbuildings, and hiking trails through orchards and meadows. Visitors can tour the house museum, explore exhibits on abolitionism and Vermont agriculture, and learn about the courageous individuals who risked everything in the pursuit of liberty.