Arlington Travel Guide

Discover the best places to visit, things to do, and local culture and customs of Arlington, Vermont with this comprehensive travel guide.


Introduction to Arlington

Arlington is a charming little town located in southern Vermont. It is a wonderful place to escape the hustle and bustle of city life and enjoy its natural beauty. The town, with its colonial architecture, offers a serene ambiance and a relaxed lifestyle. The town is perfect for art lovers and offers an array of outdoor and indoor activities. Arlington is the gateway to the Green Mountains and is a must-visit destination in Vermont.

List of Places to Visit in Arlington

Culturally Important Attractions: Museums and Historical Places

  • Martha Canfield Library: A historic library in Arlington since 1876, named after a philanthropist. The library is a beautiful building with lovely art pieces in the interior.
  • Arlington Historical Museum: The museum showcases the history of Arlington with a collection of local artifacts and memorabilia. Visitors can explore the museum and take self-guided tours.
  • The Canfield Casino: A historic landmark located in nearby Saratoga Springs, New York, built in 1870. The Casino has showcased the finest activities for its visitors for over 140 years.
  • Bennington Museum: A great museum not to be missed for the history buffs, and art aficionados. Its exhibits showcase the art, history and culture of southern Vermont.

Natural Attractions of Arlington: Outdoor Adventures and Scenic Views

  • Norman Rockwell Exhibition at the Arlington Gallery: Visit the art gallery and enjoy as well a collection of works from well-known artists showcased at the gallery.
  • Green Mountain National Forest: A nature lover’s paradise, this is the oldest National Forest in New England. The forest spans 400,000 acres and offers gorgeous hiking and biking trails along stunning waterfalls, scenic views of hills and mountains.
  • Battenkill River: Enjoy kayaking or rafting in the crystal clear water of Battenkill river. Catch-and-release fly-fishing on this stream is also quite popular.

Best Things to Do in Arlington: Activities and Tours

  • Spiral Press Café: Stop by this quaint cafe to grab a freshly brewed cup of coffee or tea to enjoy while you browse the fantastic collection of books. The cafe is the ultimate library for the book lovers and literacy enthusiasts.
  • Antique Shopping: Arlington is the paradise for antique lovers with numerous antique shops selling antiques, crafts, and other handmade items. Some of the popular antique shops include the Arlington Antique Center and the Candlelight Antique Center.
  • Camping at Arlington Park: Get away from the city’s chaos to enjoy the simple pleasures camping can offer. The park offers tent and RV camping sites adjoining the Battenkill River.

Week-Long Itinerary for Arlington

Day Activity
1 Walk around Arlington Village and Explore the Canfield Library.
2 Hike up to Mt. Equinox and enjoy scenic views from the top.
3 Visit the Bennington Museum
4 Do Some Antique Shopping
5 Go for kayaking or rafting on Battenkill river.
6 Visit Norman Rockwell Exhibition at Arlington Gallery.
7 Take a Self-Guided Tour of the Arlington Historical Museum.

Food and Drink Scene of Arlington

Must-Try Dishes

  • Maple Syrup: A classic Vermont breakfast dish. Try it on anything from pancakes to waffles!
  • Apple Cider Donuts: An apple orchard specialty that’s crispy and sweet.
  • Vermont Cheese: The state’s famous cheese is not to be missed. Try some of the sharp cheddars or creamy bries from local producers like Cabot Creamery or Grafton Village Cheese.

Local Beverages

  • Switchback Ale: A great choice for beer lovers. Enjoy its copper-red color, warm flavor, and delectable aroma.
  • Cider: Made from freshly pressed Vermont apples, this beverage has a crisp, refreshing taste that is perfect for a hot summer day.
  • Vermont maple syrup latte: A perfect breakfast drink to start your day.

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

  • The West Mountain Inn: A beautifully restored inn nestled in Green Mountain National Forest. It offers cozy rooms, seasonal cuisine, and serene spa treatments.
  • Arlington Inn: Providing accommodation with antique furniture, a classic tavern serving craft beers and wines.
  • Kwiniaska Golf Club House: Enjoy a luxurious stay and meals with spectacular views of the mountains from the Club’s House.

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

  • Maple Syrup: A Vermont classic. Look for maple syrup in distinctive glass maples and bottles.
  • Vermont Cheese: Some of the most famous cheese in the United States is made in Vermont. Try some of the local cheddar or gouda before you leave town.
  • Handcrafted Jewelry: The artisanal community creates unique and affordable jewelry.

Local Culture and Customs of Arlington

  • Plan your visit during fall to experience the bright foliage.
  • Vermont has a deep-rooted history that consists of different communities. Do read about it before planning your trip to Arlington.

Best Time to Visit Arlington

The best time to visit Arlington is from late spring to early autumn. The town weather is quite pleasant during these months and perfect for outdoor activities, including hiking and biking. Fall is a great time to visit for foliage enthusiasts. Winter is also ideal, especially if you love skiing and snowboarding.

Do’s and Don’ts of Arlington

Do:

  • Do try the local maple syrup. It’s fantastic!
  • Do explore the natural beauty of the Green Mountains.
  • Do pay a visit to the historical museum.

Don’t:

  • Don’t miss the opportunity to indulge in outdoor activities like hiking and fishing.
  • Don’t forget to carry enough warm clothing in the winter to keep yourself warm.

Safety and Health

Safety in Arlington

Arlington is generally a safe town with a low crime rate. However, use common sense when walking alone in the dark, and be cautious in secluded places.

Health in Arlington

Medical services in Arlington are relatively limited, but the medical facilities in nearby towns and cities are easily accessible.

Getting to Arlington: Transportation Options and Logistics

Airports Near Arlington

The nearest international airport to Arlington is the Albany International Airport (ALB), which is situated about 70 miles from Arlington. You can take a taxi or rental car to reach Arlington from the airport.

Bus Stations Near Arlington

The closest bus station to Arlington is the Bennington bus terminal.

Other Options

It is highly recommended that you rent a car with GPS to explore Arlington and nearby attractions at your pace.

How to Get Around in Arlington

The best way to explore Arlington is on foot or car. The town is small enough to walk around, and having a car gives you the flexibility to explore nearby attractions.

Where to Go Next from Arlington: Nearby Destinations and Excursions

  • Bennington: Only 15 minutes away, Bennington is a gorgeous town with top-rated art museums, recreational parks, and stunning scenery.
  • Manchester: A 40-minute drive from Arlington, Manchester offers stunning shopping, outdoor activities, and fabulous nightlife.
  • Dorset: Visit the stunning Dorset quarry that offers a refreshing swimming experience in the chilly weather months.

Conclusion

Arlington has an abundance of natural, historical, and cultural attractions that make it a fantastic place to explore. With its stunning mountains, rivers, and outdoor activities combined with its colonial history, antique shops, and festivals, Arlington has something for everyone. With this comprehensive guide, you are ready to plan your perfect visit to Arlington!