If you’re looking for the quintessential New England vacation, look no further than Middlebury, Vermont. The college town’s thriving economy and idyllic outdoor retreat offer the perfect mix. Although many establishments in the state have recently changed their operating hours, it’s important to check ahead of time to find out whether they’ll still be open for business or closed for the season. If you’re looking to visit Middlebury on a budget, here are some great things to do.
The town is home to several vineyards and wineries, as well as a brewery and distillery trail. The wine trail begins at Lincoln Peak Vineyard, where you can purchase refillable wine growlers and sample local wines with cheese. Woodchuck Cidery offers a tour and 20 varieties of cider on tap. Other wineries and breweries include Otter Creek Brewing Co., WhistlePig Whiskey, and Drop-In Brewing Co.
Visiting a local mountain bike park is another great option for exploring the area. The Addison County Bike Club’s website offers a comprehensive listing of mountain biking trails and provides rental bike rentals. If you’d rather go for a round of golf, the 18-hole Ralph Myhre Golf Course offers excellent views of the Green Mountains and Middlebury College. Whether you’re a beginner or an experienced player, you’ll find something to inspire you in Middlebury.
For art lovers, Middlebury is also home to the Town Hall Theater, a reconstructed theatre that hosts an exciting slate of live performances. From classical to pop music concerts, the Town Hall Theatre has something to please every type of audience. It even has a bar with locally produced beverages. During the summer, the Marble Works District hosts a celebratory end-of-summer party, featuring live music and food specials. The Town Hall Theater offers many opportunities for local creative expression and celebration, and its theater has the reputation as the heart of the performing arts scene.
Located near the Green Mountain National Forest, Waybury Inn has been a favorite among vacationers and locals alike for over a century. The Inn is located near hiking trails traversed by poet Robert Frost and other destinations, including ski resorts. The hotel is on the National Register of Historic Places. The Waybury Inn offers comfortable lodging and modern food from its pub. The Pine Room recently underwent a refurbishment.
The town is also home to the Island Rail Trail, which extends 13.4 miles from Oakledge Park in Burlington to Colchester Causeway. This bike path is one of the most beautiful bike trails in the country and offers plenty of swimming spots. The city has also received numerous awards for its bicycle paths, making it a great place to get your exercise on! If you’re looking for something to do during your next trip to Middlebury, consider checking out some of the local art galleries.
For those with a sweet tooth, the city’s Mother Myrick’s Confectionery should not be missed. Open since 1885, the quaint shop is packed with tempting treats. From candy to ice cream, the shop offers a variety of heavenly treats. The staff at Mother Myrick’s is friendly and welcoming, and they’ll happily share samples with you. They even have a deli counter for sampling.