Dorset VermontATTRACTIONS & THINGS TO DO
Listed below are the best attractions and things to do near Dorset, Vermont.
1. Dorset Theatre Festival
LIVE PROFESSIONAL THEATER
Dorset Theatre Festival features a renowned summer theater season with professional productions in a historic playhouse. The festival attracts acclaimed actors and creative professionals, offering performances ranging from classic plays to world premieres. The building's intimate setting provides a unique and engaging arts experience in southern Vermont.
2. Emerald Lake State Park
SCENIC STATE PARK
Emerald Lake State Park is known for its sparkling green waters and wooded hillsides, making it a favorite spot for swimming, canoeing, and fishing. The park offers hiking trails, camping sites, and a picturesque setting for families and outdoor enthusiasts. Its tranquil environment provides a peaceful retreat just north of Dorset.
3. Norcross-West Marble Quarry
HISTORIC SWIMMING QUARRY
Norcross-West Marble Quarry is America's oldest commercial marble quarry and is now a beloved local swimming hole. Visitors can enjoy dramatic marble cliffs and deep, clear waters surrounded by Vermont's lush scenery. The quarry's unique history and scenic beauty make it a notable summer destination.
4. Dorset Farmers Market
LOCAL ARTISAN MARKET
The Dorset Farmers Market features local produce, baked goods, cheeses, and crafts from area vendors every Sunday. It serves as a community gathering spot where visitors connect directly with farmers and artisans. The market runs seasonally and is a highlight for both locals and tourists.
5. 3 Pears Gallery on the Dorset Green
CONTEMPORARY ART GALLERY
3 Pears Gallery on the Dorset Green presents a curated selection of contemporary art from regional and national artists. The gallery showcases paintings, sculptures, and decorative arts in a charming setting. Art enthusiasts can explore rotating exhibitions and find unique pieces to purchase.
6. Dorset Union Store
HISTORIC GENERAL STORE
Dorset Union Store has been a staple of the community since 1816, offering rustic Vermont charm and a wide range of local products. The store combines a classic country market ambiance with a modern selection of prepared foods, gifts, and groceries. Its longstanding history and welcoming atmosphere attract both residents and visitors.
7. Dorset Hollow Road Scenic Drive
PICTURESQUE COUNTRY DRIVE
Dorset Hollow Road is renowned for its scenic loop through rolling hills, farmland, and classic New England architecture. The route is especially popular in autumn when colorful foliage frames the pastoral landscape. It's an ideal drive for photographers and anyone seeking Vermont's rural beauty.
8. H.N. Williams Store
HISTORIC COUNTRY STORE
H.N. Williams Store, established in 1840, is a family-run general store famous for its wide selection of Vermont cheeses, maple products, and unique gifts. The store blends tradition with local hospitality and hosts farmers markets and community gatherings. Its historic building and authentic atmosphere make it a local icon.
9. Dorset Green
QUAINT VILLAGE GREEN
The Dorset Green serves as the heart of the village, lined with historic buildings and centuries-old maples. This scenic green hosts community events, markets, and performances throughout the year. It's a perfect spot for relaxing, people-watching, and soaking up Dorset's small-town charm.
10. Dorset Historical Society
LOCAL HISTORY MUSEUM
The Dorset Historical Society preserves and presents the rich history of Dorset and its community. Visitors can explore exhibits on local industry, notable residents, and Vermont folklore. The museum offers guided tours and special events, making history accessible and engaging.
11. Pinnacle Tower
MOUNTAIN SCENIC TOWER
Pinnacle Tower, built by Cecelia de Notbeck, offers panoramic views of the surrounding mountains and valleys. The tower is a hidden gem for hikers and those seeking a rewarding vista after a pleasant walk. Its history connects to Dorset's past, adding intrigue to the scenic journey.
12. Vermont Summer Festival
EQUESTRIAN SPORTS EVENT
The Vermont Summer Festival is a premier equestrian competition held annually in East Dorset. Thousands of visitors arrive to watch world-class show jumping and horse jumping events over several weeks in the summer. The festival offers a unique blend of sport, entertainment, and community celebration.
13. Mount Aeolus Cave
NATURAL LIMESTONE CAVE
Mount Aeolus Cave is one of Vermont's largest natural limestone caves, known for its impressive underground chambers. The cave attracts adventurous hikers and spelunkers who seek to explore its cool, mysterious depths. Due to its geology and wildlife, it is a significant natural attraction in the area.
14. Manchester Designer Outlets
PREMIER SHOPPING DESTINATION
Manchester Designer Outlets features a collection of premium retail shops set in an attractive village environment just south of Dorset. Visitors can shop for high-end brands, dine at local restaurants, and enjoy a leisurely stroll through the outlet area. The destination combines upscale shopping with scenic Vermont charm.
15. Southern Vermont Arts Center
REGIONAL ARTS HUB
Southern Vermont Arts Center presents exhibitions, performances, and educational programs in a campus setting surrounded by gardens and trails. The center features galleries, a sculpture park, and a theater, making it a cultural cornerstone of the region. Art lovers can enjoy a rotating selection of visual and performing arts throughout the year.