Fair Haven VermontATTRACTIONS & THINGS TO DO
Listed below are the best attractions and things to do near Fair Haven, Vermont.
1. Half Moon State Park
SCENIC CAMPING AND HIKING
Half Moon State Park offers visitors a tranquil lakeside setting nestled in the forests near Fair Haven. The park is popular for its hiking trails, canoe rentals, and spacious campsites, making it a prime spot for outdoor recreation. Its serene, natural environment provides an ideal getaway for families, hikers, and nature lovers.
2. Bomoseen Lake
LARGEST LAKE IN VERMONT
Bomoseen Lake stands as the largest lake entirely within Vermont, attracting swimmers, boaters, and anglers alike. Its clear waters and surrounding state parks offer opportunities for relaxation, water sports, and picnicking. The lake is especially popular for summer recreation and scenic beauty.
3. Fair Haven Welcome Center
TRAVEL INFORMATION HUB
The Fair Haven Welcome Center provides visitors with travel information for Vermont and surrounding areas. Staffed by knowledgeable professionals, the center offers brochures, directions, and advice on local attractions, dining, and accommodations. The facility is conveniently located for travelers coming in from Route 4.
4. Bomoseen State Park
LAKESIDE PARK AND RECREATION
Bomoseen State Park features a beautiful location on the shores of Lake Bomoseen, with options for camping, hiking, and swimming. The park is ideal for family fun and offers nature trails, picnic areas, and boat rentals. Its natural setting draws outdoor enthusiasts throughout the region.
5. Scotch Hill Brewing Co.
LOCAL CRAFT BREWERY
Scotch Hill Brewing Co. is a popular local brewery in Fair Haven, known for its craft beers and welcoming taproom atmosphere. Visitors can enjoy tasting flights, seasonal releases, and occasional live music events. The brewery serves as a gathering spot for locals and travelers seeking a taste of Vermont's craft brewing scene.
6. Fur Haven Dog Park
PET-FRIENDLY RECREATION AREA
Fur Haven Dog Park invites both residents and travelers with pets to enjoy a dedicated space for dogs to run and socialize. The park is fenced for safety and features agility equipment and benches for owners. It provides a great way to stretch your legs and meet other pet lovers when visiting Fair Haven.
7. Fair Haven Green
HISTORIC TOWN GATHERING PLACE
The Fair Haven Green is a spacious town green highlighted by beautiful Victorian architecture and a central gazebo. This vibrant space hosts seasonal festivals, weekly summer concerts, and various community events throughout the year. It's an ideal spot for relaxing, meeting locals, or attending one of the town's many gatherings.
8. Castleton University
HISTORIC COLLEGE CAMPUS
Castleton University boasts a scenic campus and a history dating back to 1787, making it the oldest college in Vermont. Visitors can stroll through beautiful buildings and grounds or attend public performances, lectures, and sporting events. The university serves as a cultural and educational hub for the region.
9. Eagle Point Wildlife Management Area
BIRDWATCHING AND NATURE TRAILS
Eagle Point Wildlife Management Area offers nature enthusiasts a haven for birdwatching and observing Vermont's native wildlife. Well-marked trails traverse wetlands, forests, and open fields, providing habitats for various bird species and other animals. The area is perfect for quiet hikes or photography.
10. Lake St. Catherine State Park
FAMILY-FRIENDLY LAKE PARK
Lake St. Catherine State Park is a beloved destination for swimming, boating, and camping on the scenic shores of Lake St. Catherine. The park offers a sandy beach, nature trails, and picnic areas, making it a favorite for families and outdoor adventurers. Its setting provides spectacular lake views and recreational activities.
11. Slate Valley Museum
HISTORY OF SLATE QUARRYING
Slate Valley Museum showcases the rich heritage of the slate industry that shaped Fair Haven and nearby towns. Exhibits feature artifacts, interactive displays, and stories of immigrant workers who fueled the industry. The museum provides an educational experience about a defining aspect of the region's culture.
12. Poultney Museum of History and Art
LOCAL HISTORY AND CULTURE
The Poultney Museum of History and Art presents exhibits on the town's artistic achievements and historical development. Visitors can explore collections of artifacts, photographs, and artwork reflecting the diverse heritage of the Poultney area. The museum is a charming stop for those interested in local culture.
13. Rutland Railroad Museum
RAILROAD HISTORY EXHIBITS
The Rutland Railroad Museum celebrates the important role of railroads in Vermont's growth, featuring vintage artifacts, locomotives, and photographs. Visitors can learn about the history of rail travel and its impact on the region. The museum offers a nostalgic experience for rail enthusiasts and history buffs.
14. Green Mountain National Forest
EXPANSIVE NATURAL PRESERVE
Green Mountain National Forest provides vast opportunities for hiking, camping, and wildlife viewing across thousands of acres. With scenic trails and picnic spots, it offers visitors a true taste of Vermont's rugged natural landscape. The forest is accessible from various points in Rutland County, including Fair Haven.
15. Carving Studio & Sculpture Center
ARTS AND SCULPTURE EXHIBITS
The Carving Studio & Sculpture Center hosts exhibitions, workshops, and events centered around stone carving and sculpture. Located in a former marble quarry, it draws artists from around the world to create and display public art. Visitors can tour the grounds and view a wide variety of sculptures and installations.