Woodstock, Vermont: A quintessential New England destination brimming with history, charm, and natural beauty. If visions of historic covered bridges, rolling farmlands, a stunning national park, a welcoming ski mountain catering to all skill levels, and captivating art galleries dance in your head, then Woodstock, Vermont, should undoubtedly be your next vacation destination.
This idyllic village, nestled on the eastern side of the Green Mountain State, boasts a population that barely exceeds 3,000 residents. However, within its borders and the surrounding landscape lies a wealth of experiences that capture the very essence of a perfect Vermont getaway. From delving into presidential history to scaling scenic peaks and savoring farm-fresh cuisine, Woodstock, Vermont, offers a diverse array of activities to delight every traveler.
Celebrate All Things Calvin Coolidge
Venture a mere 20-minute drive from Woodstock to the neighboring town of Plymouth, and you’ll discover two significant sites dedicated to the life and legacy of the 30th President of the United States, Calvin Coolidge.
The President Calvin Coolidge Historic Site, Coolidge’s birthplace and childhood home, offers a captivating glimpse into his formative years and his presidency. Stepping onto the grounds is like traveling back in time to the late 1800s and early 1930s, as the site has been meticulously preserved to reflect the era in which he lived. Explore the meticulously maintained rooms, examine period artifacts, and gain a deeper understanding of the man who led the nation through a period of significant change.
Nearby, you’ll find Coolidge’s final resting place, a somber yet respectful monument to his life of public service. Just a short distance away lies Coolidge State Park, a haven for outdoor enthusiasts. Embark on a leisurely afternoon hike along its scenic trails, or pack a picnic and savor the tranquility of the Vermont countryside. For those seeking a more immersive experience, the park offers camping facilities for tents and RVs, allowing you to spend a night under the stars. As part of a partnership with Camp Plymouth State Park, located just 10 minutes away, campers also enjoy complimentary access to Echo Lake, a pristine body of water perfect for swimming during the summer months.
Hike to the Top of Mount Tom
Rising majestically above the village of Woodstock, Mount Tom is an unmissable landmark. Standing at 1,250 feet, this prominent peak offers breathtaking panoramic views of the surrounding landscape.
The ascent to the summit is surprisingly accessible, with a well-maintained trail that typically takes hikers around 30 minutes to complete. The trailhead can be found behind the covered bridge on Mountain Avenue, making it a convenient starting point for your adventure. For those who prefer a less strenuous option, a scenic drive along Route 4, followed by a right turn after the Farmer’s Market, will lead you to a parking lot near the summit.
While the views from Mount Tom are stunning year-round, the experience is particularly memorable during the winter months when the trail is blanketed in snow. Snowshoeing to the summit provides a unique and invigorating way to appreciate the beauty of the winter landscape.
From the top of Mount Tom, you can extend your hike by exploring other trails in the area. The 4.2-mile Pogue and Mount Tom Trail offers a scenic loop that passes by a tranquil lake, while the Faulkner Trail takes you on a 4.2-mile journey along the river, providing a refreshing perspective of the natural environment. Both trails are considered to be moderate in difficulty, making them suitable for hikers of varying experience levels.
Visit New England’s Most Photographed Farm
Venture approximately 15 minutes south of Woodstock along Route 106 in the town of Reading, and you’ll encounter a scene that is instantly recognizable: Jenne Farm. This family-owned business, operating for over half a century, is widely regarded as New England’s, and perhaps even the nation’s, most photographed farm.
The allure of Jenne Farm lies in its quintessential rural scenery, which has captivated amateur, professional, and even Hollywood photographers and filmmakers for decades. The iconic image of the old red barn and outbuildings, nestled amidst rolling hills and vibrant foliage, is a timeless representation of the Vermont countryside. A reflecting pond adds to the picturesque scene, mirroring the surrounding beauty and creating a sense of tranquility.
The farm’s popularity as a photographic subject is particularly pronounced during the autumn months when the trees surrounding the property burst into a kaleidoscope of colors. The combination of the vibrant foliage, the rustic farm buildings, and the serene setting creates an irresistible visual spectacle that has made Jenne Farm a beloved landmark.
Experience Rural Vermont Heritage
Immerse yourself in the rich agricultural heritage of Vermont at Billings Farm & Museum. This living history museum provides a fascinating glimpse into the evolution of farming practices in the state and offers a behind-the-scenes look at a working commercial dairy operation.
Founded in 1871 by Frederick Billings, the farm has been a public attraction since 1983. With a resident herd of over 70 Jersey cows, Billings Farm & Museum offers a variety of daily programs, seasonal events, and educational exhibits that bring farm life to life. Children can observe and interact with farm animals such as horses, chickens, and sheep, and even try their hand at traditional chores like churning butter.
The museum’s exhibits showcase the tools, techniques, and traditions that have shaped Vermont’s agricultural landscape over the centuries. Through interactive displays and engaging demonstrations, visitors can gain a deeper appreciation for the vital role that agriculture has played in the state’s history and culture.
Ski Suicide Six
Nestled in the town of South Pomfret, The Woodstock Inn & Resort’s Suicide Six ski area boasts a storied past and a welcoming atmosphere for skiers of all abilities. Known as one of the earliest ski resorts in the United States, Suicide Six has been a beloved destination for winter sports enthusiasts for generations.
The ski area’s name has an interesting origin. In 1934, an improvised rope tow powered by a Ford Model T engine was installed on a hill at Gilbert’s farm. The operation was later moved to a nearby hill they called "Hill 6," and a university ski coach was quoted as saying "to ski down Hill 6 was suicide," thus the name, which still exists today.
Despite having only 24 trails, Suicide Six offers a diverse range of terrain suitable for beginners, intermediate skiers, and experts alike. The ski area is open to the public and is accessible via a free shuttle from the Woodstock Inn & Resort. Check with the inn for lodging/ski packages and prices.
Watch, Shop, and Dine at Simon Pearce
For over three decades, Irish designer Simon Pearce has been crafting exquisite glassware and home furnishings in a renovated textile mill in the village of Quechee, just a short drive from Woodstock. The mill has become a must-visit destination for those seeking unique and handcrafted items.
Visitors can observe skilled glassblowers and other artisans at work, creating Pearce’s signature pieces using traditional techniques. The process is mesmerizing to watch, as molten glass is transformed into elegant bowls, vases, and other decorative objects.
The Simon Pearce complex also features an acclaimed restaurant, offering a romantic setting for lunch, dinner, or Sunday brunch. The menu features locally sourced ingredients and is served on exquisite Simon Pearce china. The restaurant’s panoramic views of a covered bridge and the Ottauquechee River waterfall add to the unforgettable dining experience.
Visit Vermont’s Only National Park
Laurance and Mary Rockefeller bestowed an invaluable gift upon Vermont: their home in Woodstock. Marsh-Billings-Rockefeller National Historical Park was established in 1992, opened to the public in 1998, and offers a captivating blend of art, history, environmentalism, and natural beauty.
The property’s history is intertwined with the lives of influential conservationists. George Perkins Marsh, an early advocate for environmental stewardship, grew up on the land. His philosophies were embraced and implemented by Frederick Billings, who purchased the Marsh estate in 1869. The Rockefellers, the final owners of the 550-acre property, insisted that the house where they spent their summers be preserved as they left it, complete with their remarkable art collection.
Visitors can reserve a guided tour of the Mansion and gardens, which are open from Memorial Day weekend through the end of October. The tour provides insights into the lives of the Marsh, Billings, and Rockefeller families and their contributions to conservation and environmentalism.
Sample Cheese and Maple Syrup
No visit to Woodstock is complete without indulging in Vermont’s signature culinary delights: cheese and maple syrup. Sugarbush Farm, located just a 12-minute drive from Woodstock, offers a delightful opportunity to sample these local specialties.
This 500-acre farm welcomes visitors to sample more than a dozen varieties of cheese and four grades of Vermont maple syrup, as well as mustards, jams, and other locally made products. Watch a video showcasing the syrup-making process, and explore a nature trail that leads to the maple sugar woods. Sugarbush Farm is open daily except for Thanksgiving and Christmas, and admission is free.
See Charming Covered Bridges
Woodstock is home to three of Vermont’s many historic covered bridges, offering a glimpse into the town’s past and a charming addition to any visit. These iconic structures evoke a sense of nostalgia and represent a bygone era of craftsmanship and community.
The Middle Covered Bridge, located on Mountain Avenue across the Village Green from the Woodstock Inn & Resort, is a modern structure built in 1969 in the authentic covered bridge style.
The Lincoln Bridge, dating back to 1877, is situated three miles west of the Village Green on Route 4. This historic bridge is the country’s sole Pratt-type truss bridge constructed of wood and is listed on the National Register of Historic Places.
The Taftsville Bridge, located four miles east of the Village Green on Route 4, is Vermont’s third-oldest covered bridge. Originally built in 1836, it underwent extensive restoration following Tropical Storm Irene in 2011.
Enjoy a Farm to Table Meal
Experience the essence of farm-to-table dining at Cloudland Farm in Pomfret. This restaurant is situated on the Emmons family farm, where much of the meat, produce, and herbs used in the dishes are sourced.
Farm-to-table dinners are served on Thursdays, Fridays, and Saturdays by reservation. While there, explore the farm, photograph the animals and scenery, and shop at the farmers’ market for local meat, produce, and pottery.
Woodstock, Vermont, offers a captivating blend of history, natural beauty, and authentic New England charm. From exploring presidential sites and scaling scenic peaks to indulging in local delicacies and admiring historic covered bridges, Woodstock provides a diverse array of experiences that will create lasting memories.
