Bradford Travel Guide

Discover the culturally important attractions, natural wonders, outdoor adventures, food and drink scene, accommodations, and more in Bradford, Vermont.


Introduction to Bradford

Nestled in Central Vermont, Bradford is a small town that offers a perfect mix of outdoor adventures, scenic beauty, and cultural attractions. The town sits at the junction of the Waits River and the Connecticut River, making it a popular destination for fishing, kayaking, and swimming.

List of Places to Visit in Bradford

If you’re planning a trip to Bradford, you’ll want to make sure to check out these top attractions:

Culturally Important Attractions: Museums and Historical Places

  • The Elizabeth Mine Museum: This museum offers visitors a chance to explore the history of copper mining in the region.
  • Bradford Historical Society Museum: This museum features exhibits on the history of Bradford and the surrounding area.
  • Pike’s Falls: This is a beautiful waterfall and a popular spot for swimming in the summer.

Natural Attractions of Bradford: Outdoor Adventures and Scenic Views

  • Wrights Mountain: This is a scenic hiking trail that offers spectacular views of the surrounding mountains and valleys.
  • Waits River: A fun place to fish and swim, Waits River is known for its crystal-clear waters and abundant fish.
  • Lake Fairlee: A beautiful lake surrounded by forested mountains, Lake Fairlee is a great spot for kayaking, canoeing, and fishing.

Hiking/Biking Routes of Bradford

If you love hiking or biking, Bradford has plenty of trails to explore:

  • Bradford Rail Trail: This is a 5-mile, multi-use trail that’s perfect for hiking and biking.
  • Cross Vermont Trail: This is a 90-mile trail that runs from Burlington to Montpelier, passing through Bradford along the way.
  • Ompompanoosuc River Trail: This trail follows the river through a beautiful wooded landscape, and is a great place to go fishing or birdwatching.

Best Things to Do in Bradford: Activities and Tours

In addition to hiking and biking, Bradford offers plenty of other activities for visitors to enjoy:

  • Vermont Canoe and Kayak: Rent a kayak or canoe and explore the Waits River.
  • The Panther Pub and Grille: A popular spot for live music, local beer, and delicious pub fare.
  • The Local Buzz: This cozy coffee shop offers plenty of seating, delicious coffee and baked goods for a lazy afternoon.

Week-Long Itinerary for Bradford

If you’re planning a week-long trip to Bradford, you might consider this itinerary:

Day Activity
Day 1 Visit the Elizabeth Mine Museum
Day 2 Hike Wrights Mountain
Day 3 Spend the day fishing and swimming at Waits River
Day 4 Visit the Bradford Historical Society Museum and Pike’s Falls
Day 5 Explore the Ompompanoosuc River Trail
Day 6 Rent a kayak or canoe and paddle Lake Fairlee
Day 7 Relax at The Panther Pub and Grille or The Local Buzz

Food and Drink Scene of Bradford

When visiting Bradford, it’s hard to resist the local food and drink scene, with a number of must-try dishes and local beverages:

Must-Try Dishes

  • Vermont Maple Syrup: A delicious sweetener that complements a variety of dishes.
  • Vermont Cheddar Cheese: Award-winning cheese that’s perfect for a snack or melted on top of a burger.
  • Apple Pie: Made with locally grown apples, this is a classic American dessert.

Local Beverages

  • Vermont Craft Beer: Vermont is known for its craft beer scene, and Bradford has some great local breweries to check out.
  • Apple Cider: Bradford is home to a number of apple orchards, making fresh apple cider a must-try drink.

Where to Stay in Bradford: Hotels, Hostels, and Guesthouses

When it comes to accommodations, Bradford offers a range of options for visitors:

  • The Inn at Weathersfield: A beautifully restored inn that dates back to 1792, offering comfortable rooms and a farm-to-table restaurant.
  • Vermont Room: This cozy room is above the Bradford Village Inn and offers a private entrance and three bedrooms.
  • Stone Cottage: This charming cottage is situated on the edge of the woods and offers a private deck and cozy living area.

What to Buy in Bradford: Souvenirs and Local Products to Bring Home

There are plenty of local products to take home as a memento of your trip to Bradford:

  • Vermont Maple Syrup: Bring home a bottle of locally produced Vermont maple syrup.
  • Vermont Cheddar Cheese: Take home some award-winning Vermont cheddar cheese to enjoy later.
  • Handmade Jewelry and Crafts: Bradford is home to a number of artisans who create beautiful handmade jewelry and crafts.

Local Culture and Customs of Bradford

Bradford is a friendly town with a rich local culture. Visitors should be aware of the following customs:

  • Respect for Nature: Vermonters are passionate about preserving the natural beauty of their state, so visitors should take care when hiking, biking, and exploring.
  • Friendly Conversations: Vermonters are known for their friendly nature, so don’t be surprised if strangers strike up a conversation with you.

Best Time to Visit Bradford

The best time to visit Bradford is during the summer months, from June through August, when the weather is warm and sunny, and the outdoor activities are in full swing. Fall is also a great time to visit, with colorful foliage and plenty of exciting events and festivals.

Do’s and Don’ts of Bradford

Do:

  • Explore the outdoors: Bradford is known for its scenic beauty and outdoor adventures, so don’t be afraid to get out and explore.
  • Embrace the Local Culture: Take the time to learn about the local culture and customs.

Don’t:

  • Litter: Vermont is serious about preserving the natural beauty of the state, so visitors should take care when disposing of trash.
  • Overlook the Small Town Charm: Bradford may be small, but it has plenty of character and charm. Don’t overlook the local businesses and attractions when planning your trip.

Safety and Health

Safety in Bradford

Bradford is generally a safe and friendly town, but visitors should take usual precautions, like locking doors and windows, and being aware of their surroundings.

Health in Bradford

Vermont is known for its clean air and pristine natural environment, making it a healthy place to visit. Visitors should bring appropriate clothing and gear for outdoor adventures to stay comfortable and protected.

Getting to Bradford: Transportation Options and Logistics

Airports Near Bradford

  • Burlington International Airport: The closest international airport to Bradford, located about 1.5 hours north of the town.
  • Manchester-Boston Regional Airport: Located about 2.5 hours southwest of Bradford, this airport offers a few direct flights per day to major East Coast cities.

Bus Stations Near Bradford

  • Montpelier Transit: This is the closest bus station to Bradford, located about 30 minutes south in Montpelier.

Other Options

Many visitors to Bradford drive their own vehicles or rent a car for their trip, as it provides more flexibility for exploring the surrounding areas.

How to Get Around in Bradford

Most visitors to Bradford get around by car, either driving their own vehicle or renting one. However, the town is small enough to explore on foot or by bike.

Where to Go Next from Bradford: Nearby Destinations and Excursions

If you’re interested in exploring more of Vermont, there are a number of nearby destinations worth visiting:

  • Hanover, NH: A charming college town just across the Connecticut River from Bradford.
  • Quechee Gorge: A stunning natural gorge that’s worth a visit for its beautiful views and hiking trails.
  • White River Junction: A bustling arts and culture hub just south of Bradford.

Conclusion

Bradford is a gem of a town, with a great mix of outdoor adventures, cultural attractions, and local charm. Whether you’re exploring the outdoors, taking in the local culture, or just relaxing and enjoying the beautiful scenery and friendly people, you’re sure to have a great time in Bradford.

Bradford Town Hall Bradford Town Hall