Middlebury VermontATTRACTIONS & THINGS TO DO
Listed below are the best attractions and things to do near Middlebury, Vermont.
1. Lincoln Peak Vineyard
VERMONT WINE EXPERIENCE
Lincoln Peak Vineyard is a popular winery that produces red wines entirely from grapes grown in their 12-acre vineyard. Visitors can enjoy tastings and tours of the facility, which showcases Vermont's growing wine industry. The vineyard is typically closed during winter months and reopens in spring for the tasting season.
2. UVM Morgan Horse Farm
HISTORIC HORSE BREEDING
The UVM Morgan Horse Farm is home to over 40 horses that are all descendants of the Colonel Joseph Battell horse registry from 1878, when he saved the breed from extinction. This historic farm offers educational events and activities for the public, allowing visitors to learn about this iconic American horse breed. Pre-registration is currently required for visitors, so contacting the farm prior to a visit is recommended.
3. Middlebury College
PRESTIGIOUS LIBERAL ARTS
Middlebury College is a renowned liberal arts institution nestled in the rolling hills of Vermont that offers both academic excellence and beautiful campus grounds to explore. The college contributes significantly to the cultural landscape of the town with various events and facilities open to the public. Visitors can enjoy the campus architecture, public art installations, and natural setting.
4. Mahaney Center for the Arts
CULTURAL CREATIVE HUB
The Mahaney Center for the Arts at Middlebury College showcases works from local, national, and international artists throughout the year. With its studio theater, dance theater, and recital hall, the center hosts a diverse range of performances and cultural events. Art enthusiasts will appreciate the rotating exhibitions and opportunities to engage with various art forms in this vibrant cultural space.
5. Trail Around Middlebury
SCENIC WALKING PATH
The Trail Around Middlebury is a 16-mile footpath that completely encircles the village, offering scenic views and natural beauty. Hikers and walkers can enjoy sections of varying difficulty levels, making it accessible for visitors of all abilities. The trail provides an excellent way to experience the diverse landscapes surrounding Middlebury, from farmlands to forests.
6. Henry Sheldon Museum of Vermont History
OLDEST COMMUNITY MUSEUM
The Henry Sheldon Museum of Vermont History claims the title of oldest community-based museum in the country, having welcomed visitors since 1884. Visitors can tour the 1829 Judd-Harris House, a preserved depiction of small-town life in the 19th century, and peruse the archives at the Stewart-Swift Research Center. The museum also features rotating exhibits at the Walter Cerf Gallery, showcasing various aspects of Vermont's rich history.
7. Otter Creek
SCENIC WATERWAY RECREATION
Otter Creek runs through Middlebury's heart, offering picturesque views and waterfall scenery in the downtown area. Visitors can enjoy kayaking, fishing, and other water activities along this beautiful waterway. The creek not only provides recreational opportunities but also played an important role in the town's historical development and literary heritage.
8. Drop-In Brewing
LOCAL CRAFT BEER
Drop-In Brewing is a popular craft brewery in Middlebury that offers visitors an authentic Vermont beer experience. The brewery provides tastings of their unique creations in a casual, welcoming atmosphere. Beer enthusiasts can learn about the brewing process while sampling a variety of locally made craft beers.
9. Middlebury Tasting Trail
LOCAL LIBATION TOUR
The Middlebury Tasting Trail offers visitors a self-guided tour of seven local producers of craft beer, wine, cider, and spirits all within just a few miles. Popular stops include the Woodchuck Cidery, where visitors can enjoy tours, tastings, and 20 ciders on tap, and Stonecutter Spirits. This unique trail showcases Vermont's thriving craft beverage industry and provides a delightful experience for adult visitors.
10. Vermont Folklife Center
CULTURAL HERITAGE PRESERVATION
The Vermont Folklife Center in downtown Middlebury preserves and presents the living cultural exhibits of the state's diverse communities. Visitors can explore exhibits, archives, and multimedia presentations that document Vermont's cultural traditions and contemporary life. The center serves as an important resource for understanding the rich tapestry of Vermont's cultural heritage.
11. Middlebury College Museum of Art
DIVERSE ART COLLECTION
The Middlebury College Museum of Art houses an impressive collection spanning ancient to contemporary works from cultures around the world. The museum regularly features special exhibitions alongside its permanent collection, providing fresh perspectives and artistic experiences. Admission is free and open to the public, making it an accessible cultural resource for visitors and residents alike.
12. Town Hall Theater
HISTORIC PERFORMANCE VENUE
The Town Hall Theater is a beautifully restored historic venue in downtown Middlebury that hosts concerts, theatrical productions, and classes throughout the year. Visitors can also explore the Jackson Art Gallery located within the theater building. This cultural institution serves as a vibrant community gathering space that celebrates the performing and visual arts.
13. Middlebury Snow Bowl
ALPINE SKIING DESTINATION
The Middlebury Snow Bowl is a college-owned ski area that offers alpine skiing and snowboarding opportunities for visitors during the winter months. The mountain features various trails suitable for different skill levels, from beginners to advanced skiers. Its smaller, more intimate setting provides a charming alternative to larger commercial ski resorts in Vermont.
14. Rikert Nordic Center
CROSS-COUNTRY SKIING PARADISE
The Rikert Nordic Center offers 26 miles of cross-country skiing trails for winter enthusiasts visiting the Middlebury area. The well-maintained trails wind through beautiful forest landscapes, providing both scenic views and excellent skiing conditions. During other seasons, the center's trails can be used for hiking, running, and mountain biking, making it a year-round outdoor recreation destination.
15. Edgewater Gallery on the Green
CONTEMPORARY ART SHOWCASE
Edgewater Gallery on the Green is a premier art gallery in downtown Middlebury showcasing contemporary fine art from regional and national artists. The gallery features rotating exhibitions throughout the year, highlighting various artistic styles and mediums. Visitors can explore and purchase original artwork while experiencing Vermont's vibrant creative community.