Waterford VermontATTRACTIONS & THINGS TO DO
Listed below are the best attractions and things to do near Waterford, Vermont.
1. Waterford Welcome Center
GATEWAY TO NORTHEAST KINGDOM
The Waterford Welcome Center serves as the only Vermont information center on I-93 and a gateway to the Northeast Kingdom from the East. It's open daily from 7:00 AM to 7:00 PM with knowledgeable travel professionals who assist visitors with directions, accommodations, dining options, and current events. The center provides information on various attractions including maple sugarhouses, breweries, outdoor activities, and cultural venues.
2. Connecticut River
SCENIC WATERWAY ACTIVITIES
The Connecticut River gracefully borders Waterford, offering diverse opportunities for outdoor recreation. Visitors can enjoy peaceful boating, fishing, and taking in the picturesque landscapes along the riverbanks. The river provides a natural boundary and serves as a beautiful backdrop for photographers and nature enthusiasts alike.
3. Mountain View Horseback Adventures
EQUESTRIAN TRAILS EXPERIENCE
Mountain View Horseback Adventures at the Powers Farm offers guided tours through Vermont's scenic countryside. The highly-rated attraction (5.0 rating) provides visitors with a unique way to experience the natural beauty of the Northeast Kingdom. Riders of various skill levels can enjoy well-maintained trails with knowledgeable guides leading the way.
4. Maple Grove Farms of Vermont
SWEET MAPLE DELIGHTS
Maple Grove Farms of Vermont offers visitors a glimpse into the traditional art of maple syrup production. The popular attraction allows guests to learn about the maple sugaring process from tree to table through interactive displays and demonstrations. Visitors can sample various maple products and purchase authentic Vermont maple syrup to take home.
5. The Dog Chapel
CANINE MEMORIAL SPACE
The Dog Chapel is a unique and heartwarming attraction dedicated to celebrating the special bond between humans and their canine companions. This highly-rated site (4.8 rating) features walls covered with thousands of remembrances and photos from visitors honoring their beloved dogs. The chapel provides a peaceful space for reflection and appreciation of the joy that dogs bring to our lives.
6. Hammerdown Adventures
OUTDOOR EXCITEMENT HUB
Hammerdown Adventures offers thrilling outdoor experiences for adventure seekers visiting the Northeast Kingdom. The attraction provides guided excursions that showcase Vermont's natural beauty through activities like hiking, climbing, and other outdoor pursuits. Visitors can enjoy personalized adventures tailored to their skill level and interests while creating memorable experiences in Vermont's wilderness.
7. Green Mountains
OUTDOOR PARADISE ESCAPE
Vermont's Green Mountains are part of the Appalachian range and known for their lush forests and outdoor recreation opportunities. Highlights include scenic areas like Smugglers Notch, the Green Mountain National Forest, and various ski resorts that attract visitors year-round. The mountains are dotted with quaint villages and covered bridges that add to the area's charm for travelers seeking both relaxation and adventure.
8. Lake Champlain
YEAR-ROUND WATER RECREATION
Lake Champlain showcases Vermont's vibrant mix of outdoor recreation and cultural treasures within driving distance of Waterford. Visitors can hike nearby Mt. Philo State Park for panoramic views of the lake or enjoy water-based activities like boating, swimming, and fishing. The lake region offers additional attractions including the Lake Champlain Chocolates Flagship Store and the Vermont Teddy Bear Factory for family-friendly experiences.
9. Vermont Ski Resorts
MOUNTAIN WINTER WONDERLAND
Skiing in Vermont offers a unique blend of thrilling outdoor activities and cozy mountain charm within reach of Waterford visitors. Resorts like Mount Snow Grand Summit Resort and Jay Peak Resort provide exceptional trails, terrain parks, and aprés-ski options for families and solo travelers alike. The stunning winter scenery surrounding these resorts creates memories to last a lifetime for winter sports enthusiasts.
10. St. Johnsbury Athenaeum
HISTORIC ART GALLERY
The St. Johnsbury Athenaeum houses a remarkable art gallery featuring 19th-century American and European paintings. This historic library and art museum, located near Waterford, combines Victorian architecture with cultural significance. Visitors can admire the impressive collection including Albert Bierstadt's monumental landscape 'The Domes of the Yosemite' while exploring this National Historic Landmark.
11. Fairbanks Museum & Planetarium
NATURAL SCIENCE DISCOVERY
The Fairbanks Museum & Planetarium in nearby St. Johnsbury offers a fascinating natural science museum with an impressive collection of specimens and artifacts. The museum houses Vermont's only public planetarium, providing visitors with immersive astronomical experiences. Founded in 1889, this Victorian-era treasure combines natural history, astronomy, and cultural exhibits in a distinctive red sandstone building.
12. Littleton Main Street
CHARMING SHOPPING DISTRICT
Littleton's Main Street offers visitors from nearby Waterford a delightful shopping experience with diverse boutiques, galleries, and specialty shops. The charming district has been recognized as one of the best small-town main streets in America with its historic architecture and vibrant atmosphere. Visitors can explore unique stores, enjoy local dining options, and experience the authentic New England character of this nearby New Hampshire town.
13. Kingdom Trails
PREMIER MOUNTAIN BIKING
Kingdom Trails offers over 100 miles of non-motorized, multi-use trails through the scenic landscapes of Vermont's Northeast Kingdom near Waterford. The trail network is internationally renowned for mountain biking, with trails designed for all skill levels from beginners to advanced riders. Visitors can also enjoy activities like hiking, snowshoeing, and fat biking depending on the season, making it a year-round outdoor recreation destination.
14. Burke Mountain
FOUR-SEASON MOUNTAIN RESORT
Burke Mountain Resort provides visitors with exceptional skiing and snowboarding during winter months and mountain biking in warmer seasons. The resort offers spectacular views of Vermont's Northeast Kingdom from its 3,267-foot summit, accessible via chairlift year-round. Guests can enjoy a variety of terrain suitable for different skill levels, along with comfortable lodging and dining options at the Burke Mountain Hotel.
15. Caledonia County Farmers Market
LOCAL HARVEST SHOWCASE
The Caledonia County Farmers Market brings together local farmers, artisans, and food producers to showcase the best of Vermont's agricultural bounty near Waterford. Visitors can browse fresh produce, handcrafted goods, baked items, and specialty foods while connecting directly with the people who make them. The market creates a vibrant community gathering place that celebrates local culture and sustainable food systems throughout the growing season.