Bennington Travel Guide

Discover the best places to visit, things to do, and where to stay in Bennington, Vermont, in this comprehensive tour guide.


Introduction to Bennington

Bennington is a picturesque town located in southern Vermont, situated in the beautiful Green Mountains. It is rich in history and culture, offering a range of attractions, including museums, outdoor adventures, and scenic views. The town is also known for its local food and drink scene, making it a must-visit destination for foodies and beverage enthusiasts.

In this comprehensive tour guide, we will provide a detailed list of places to visit, things to do, and where to stay in Bennington. We’ll cover everything from natural attractions to cultural landmarks, from hiking trails to foodie hotspots. So pack your bags and get ready to explore this charming New England destination!

List of Places to Visit in Bennington

Visitors to Bennington have a range of attractions to choose from - here are some of the most popular:

Culturally Important Attractions: Museums and Historical Places

Bennington is home to numerous museums and historical landmarks, showcasing the town’s rich history and culture:

  • The Bennington Museum: Houses an extensive collection of artifacts and artwork portraying the town’s past. It is known for its collection of Grandma Moses artwork and other fine art, including works by Hudson River School artists.
  • The Bennington Battle Monument: A tower that commemorates the Battle of Bennington, which took place during the Revolutionary War.
  • The Robert Frost Stone House Museum: The former home of famous poet Robert Frost, now a museum displaying the writer’s work and housing a writing program.
  • The Park-McCullough House: An elegant mansion showcasing Victorian architecture and interior design.

Natural Attractions of Bennington: Outdoor Adventures and Scenic Views

Bennington is surrounded by stunning natural scenery, making it a perfect destination for nature lovers. Here are some of the area’s top outdoor attractions:

  • The Green Mountains: A range of mountains that offer numerous hiking and biking trails, and breathtaking views of the surrounding area.
  • Lake Paran: A tranquil lake perfect for swimming, canoeing, kayaking, and fishing.
  • The Bennington Fish Hatchery: A popular spot for fishing enthusiasts, offering a variety of fish species to catch.

Hiking/Biking Routes of Bennington

Bennington is a hiker’s and biker’s paradise with spectacular scenery and endless trails waiting to be explored. Here are some of the best routes for hikers and bikers:

  • The Long Trail: A 272-mile trail that spans the state of Vermont.
  • The Green Mountains: A range of mountains that offer numerous hiking and biking trails, ranging from beginner to expert levels.
  • The Molly Stark State Park: A popular hiking trail that offers stunning views of the area’s natural beauty.

Best Things to Do in Bennington: Activities and Tours

From art galleries to farm tours, Bennington offers a variety of unique activities and opportunities for visitors:

  • The Bennington Pottery: A unique pottery studio where visitors can create their own piece of ceramic art.
  • Bennington Potters Factory Store: A retail store that sells a range of pottery products.
  • Mad Tom Orchard: A family-owned orchard where visitors can pick their own fruits.

Week-Long Itinerary for Bennington

For those staying in Bennington for an extended period, here is an ideal itinerary for a week-long trip:

Day Activity/Tour
1 Visit the Bennington Museum in the morning and the Bennington Battle Monument in the afternoon.
2 Hike the Long Trail and enjoy a picnic lunch at the summit.
3 Take a scenic drive around Bennington, stopping at Lake Paran and the Bennington Fish Hatchery.
4 Visit the Robert Frost Stone House Museum and take part in a poetry workshop.
5 Take a farm tour and pick your own fruits or vegetables.
6 Explore the Green Mountains on a guided biking trip.
7 Relax and unwind with a visit to a local spa or a shopping day in downtown Bennington.

Food and Drink Scene of Bennington

Bennington has a vibrant food and beverage scene, with a range of restaurants, cafes, and bars that offer local cuisine and drinks. Here are some must-try dishes and local beverages:

Must-Try Dishes

  • Vermont Maple Syrup: A local treat, used in many sweet dishes and as a topping for pancakes and waffles.
  • Apple Cider Donuts: A favorite pastry made with local apples and cider.
  • Cabot Cheese: A cheddar cheese made from local cow’s milk.

Local Beverages

  • Cider: A refreshing local beverage made from Vermont-grown apples.
  • Craft Beer: A range of local craft breweries offer a variety of beer styles to enjoy.
  • Maple Lemonade: A refreshing drink made with local maple syrup.

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

Bennington offers a range of accommodation options, including hotels, hostels, and guesthouses. Here are some recommended options:

  • The Four Chimneys Inn: A charming bed and breakfast located in a historic mansion.
  • The Paran Guest House: A cozy guesthouse with rustic decor.
  • The Hampton Inn Bennington: A modern hotel offering a range of amenities.

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

Visitors to Bennington can take home a part of the town’s culture and traditions with some unique souvenirs and local products:

  • Vermont Maple Syrup: A must-have souvenir and ingredient for foodies.
  • Handmade Pottery: The Bennington Pottery Studio produces locally-made pottery products.
  • Craft Beer: Local breweries offer a range of unique beer styles that make great gifts.

Local Culture and Customs of Bennington

Bennington is a small town that values its community and traditions. Visitors must respect the town’s cultural norms, such as being polite and friendly towards locals and respecting nature while hiking or biking.

Best Time to Visit Bennington

Bennington is a year-round destination, with changing seasons offering different activities and attractions. Summer is ideal for outdoor adventures, while fall offers stunning foliage views. Winter is perfect for skiing and snowboarding, while spring is a great time for exploring local farms and orchards.

Do’s and Don’ts of Bennington

Here are some do’s and don’ts for visiting Bennington:

Do:

  • Respect the environment and natural beauty of the town’s attractions.
  • Explore the local cuisine and beverage scene.
  • Interact with the friendly locals.

Don’t:

  • Litter or harm the wildlife.
  • Disrespect the town’s cultural traditions or customs.
  • Speak loudly or be disruptive in quiet or residential areas.

Safety and Health

Safety in Bennington

Bennington is a safe destination, with low crime rates and a friendly community. Visitors should take precautions when hiking or biking, such as carrying water and protective gear.

Health in Bennington

Bennington has several medical facilities and hospitals; visitors can consult their healthcare provider before travel to ensure they are prepared for any potential health risks.

Getting to Bennington: Transportation Options and Logistics

Airports Near Bennington

  • Albany International Airport: 47 miles.
  • Burlington International Airport: 93 miles.

Bus Stations Near Bennington

  • The Bennington Station: Served by Greyhound Bus Lines.

Other Options

  • Car Rental: Many car rental agencies have locations in Bennington.
  • Private Car Service: Many private car services operate in the area.

How to Get Around in Bennington

Bennington is a small town that can easily be explored on foot or by bike. Rental cars and local taxi services are also available.

Where to Go Next from Bennington: Nearby Destinations and Excursions

There are many nearby destinations that visitors to Bennington can explore:

  • Manchester, Vermont: A charming town known for its outlet shopping and upscale destination spas.
  • Williamstown, Massachusetts: A world-renowned arts destination, home of the Williams College Museum of Art and the Clark Art Institute.

Conclusion

Bennington is a beautiful town that offers a range of attractions, from hiking and biking to museums and historical landmarks. Visitors can explore the town’s local culture and food scene, while also enjoying the stunning natural scenery. With this comprehensive tour guide, visitors have everything they need to plan an unforgettable trip to Bennington, Vermont.

Sacred Heart St. Francis de Sales Church Sacred Heart St. Francis de Sales Church Statue of Seth Warner and obelisk at Bennington Battle Monument Statue of Seth Warner and obelisk at Bennington Battle Monument Historic Bennington Train Station, now a restaurant and lounge Historic Bennington Train Station, now a restaurant and lounge Everett Mansion at Southern Vermont College Everett Mansion at Southern Vermont College The former Post Office The former Post Office