Ryegate VermontATTRACTIONS & THINGS TO DO
Listed below are the best attractions and things to do near Ryegate, Vermont.
1. Artesano Meadery
LOCAL MEAD AND HONEY
Artesano Meadery in Ryegate crafts small-batch meads from Vermont honey, offering a unique tasting experience. Visitors can sample various meads and learn about the production process. The meadery is well known for its focus on local ingredients and artisanal quality.
2. Lower Symes Pond
SCENIC OUTDOOR RETREAT
Lower Symes Pond provides a peaceful setting for fishing, kayaking, and wildlife observation. Surrounded by forests and rural landscapes, it offers a quiet escape for nature lovers. The pond is a popular spot for picnics and outdoor relaxation with family and friends.
3. Wells River State Welcome Center
GATEWAY VISITOR CENTER
The Wells River State Welcome Center serves as a friendly gateway to Vermont, offering travel information and local insights. Visitors can stop in for maps, brochures, and recommendations for exploring the region. The center features clean facilities and a welcoming staff, making it ideal for first-time travelers.
4. Haverhill-Bath Covered Bridge
HISTORIC WOODEN BRIDGE
The Haverhill-Bath Covered Bridge is one of the oldest covered bridges in New Hampshire, spanning the Ammonoosuc River near the Vermont border. Built in 1829, it offers picturesque views and is a favorite spot for photography. The bridge is a symbol of 19th-century craftsmanship and regional heritage.
5. Blue Mountain
HIKING AND VIEWS
Blue Mountain is a prominent natural feature known for its hiking trails and panoramic vistas of the Northeast Kingdom. The area is popular among outdoor enthusiasts for birdwatching and exploring Vermont's landscape. Seasonal changes make each visit unique, whether in lush summer or colorful autumn.
6. Bath Covered Bridge
ICONIC RIVER CROSSING
The Bath Covered Bridge, constructed in 1832, stretches across the scenic Ammonoosuc River and remains in operation for vehicles. Its picturesque setting attracts tourists and artists looking to capture its classic New England charm. The bridge is an enduring local landmark representing the area's rich history.
7. Wells River
PICTURESQUE RIVER VILLAGE
The village of Wells River is known for its charming Main Street, historic buildings, and riverside parks. It functions as a small commercial hub and offers visitors opportunities for shopping and dining. The river itself provides lovely spots for walks or relaxing by the water.
8. Connecticut River
MAJOR WATERWAY RECREATION
The Connecticut River marks Vermont's eastern border and is a favorite destination for boating, fishing, and scenic drives. Paddlers and anglers can enjoy its tranquil waters and abundant fish species. Riverbanks in the Ryegate area offer great spots for picnicking and wildlife watching.
9. Bath Village
CLASSIC NEW ENGLAND TOWN
Bath Village, just across the border from Vermont, features quintessential New England architecture and a quaint town center. Visitors often stroll past the general store, historic church, and old-fashioned town green. The village is known for its welcoming atmosphere and preserved heritage.
10. South Ryegate
HISTORIC VILLAGE CENTER
South Ryegate is one of the original villages within the town, reflecting the area's Scottish immigrant roots and granite quarrying history. The community offers a glimpse into rural Vermont life with historic homes and scenic backroads. It is an ideal spot for those interested in local culture and quiet exploration.
11. Ryegate Corner
CHARMING RURAL HAMLET
Ryegate Corner is a picturesque hamlet surrounded by farmland and rolling hills in the heart of Ryegate. The area is characterized by its peaceful setting, classic Vermont vistas, and historic sites. Travelers can enjoy country drives and explore the community's scenic beauty.
12. East Ryegate
VILLAGE WITH VIEWS
East Ryegate is a small village known for its beautiful rural landscape and proximity to outdoor activities like hiking and fishing. The village hosts events and gatherings that reflect its Scottish-American heritage. Its serene atmosphere appeals to those looking for a quiet getaway.
13. Ryegate Paper Company Site
INDUSTRIAL HERITAGE SITE
The Ryegate Paper Company once played a key role in the town's economy, reflecting the industrial legacy of the region. While operations have ceased, the site represents Ryegate's transition from farming to industry in the 20th century. Heritage enthusiasts may appreciate exploring the area around the old mill location.
14. Blue Mountain Granite Quarries
GRANITE INDUSTRY HISTORY
The granite quarries on Blue Mountain were once among Ryegate's major industries, producing stone for monuments and buildings. Remnants of the quarries can still be found, offering a glimpse into the town's industrial past. The site is especially interesting to those fascinated by geology and local history.
15. Connecticut & Passumpsic Rivers Railroad Site
TRANSPORTATION HERITAGE LANDMARK
The former Connecticut & Passumpsic Rivers Railroad connected Ryegate to regional trade routes in the 19th century. While train service no longer operates, traces of the old rail line and historical markers recall the era when the railroad was vital to the town's growth. Local trails follow sections of the former route, making for a pleasant walk through history.