Rutland Travel Guide

Explore the best places to visit, food and drink scene, hiking and biking routes, local culture, and safety tips in Rutland Vermont. Plan your trip with our comprehensive travel guide.


Rutland, located in Southern Vermont, is a charming city well-known for its historic downtown, natural attractions, outdoor activities, and cultural landmarks. The region draws tourists with its scenic beauty, quaint charm, and a plethora of fun activities. This comprehensive travel guide to Rutland, Vermont, will introduce you to the city’s top attractions, vibrant food and drink scene, hiking and biking routes, local culture, and safety tips to help you have an enriching trip.

Introduction to Rutland

Rutland is a small city in Vermont with a population of around 15,000. Located in the southern region of the state, the city is surrounded by the stunning Green Mountains, creating panoramic views at every turn. The city is also home to numerous historic buildings and landmarks, including some that date back to the 19th century.

List of Places to Visit in Rutland

Rutland has an array of places to visit for tourists, from museums and parks to outdoor activities. Here are some of the must-visit attractions:

Culturally Important Attractions: Museums and Historical Places

  • Rutland Historical Society Museum: Learn about the history of Rutland from 1770 to the present day through paintings, artifacts, and photographs.
  • Norman Rockwell Museum of Vermont: This museum displays the artwork of Norman Rockwell’s 1939 painting “Homecoming Marine”.
  • Wilson Castle: Explore the charm of this historic estate full of art, intricate woodwork, and architectural detail.

Natural Attractions of Rutland: Outdoor Adventures and Scenic Views

  • Killington Resort: A popular ski resort and beautifully scenic hiking destination featuring an array of trails and activities year-round.
  • Lake Bomoseen State Park: Spend time on the beach, rent a kayak, go fishing, or try skiing and snowshoeing in the winter.
  • Gifford Woods State Park: A popular hiking destination that is home to a 3.3-mile trail that leads to the top of Killington Peak.

Hiking/Biking Routes of Rutland

Rutland is a haven for outdoor activities such as hiking and biking. Here are some popular trails:

  • Pico Nature Center: A five-kilometer trail loop through wetlands and up to the Pico Mountain summit.
  • Carriage Trail: A scenic 16-mile trail north of Rutland that passes through old carriage roads, fields, and forests.
  • Rutland Rail Trail: A beautiful biking/ hiking trail that passes through gorgeous landscapes, streams, and a covered bridge.

Best Things to Do in Rutland: Activities and Tours

To make the most of your time in Rutland, participate in the following activities:

  • Quiet Valley Guided Fishing Trips: Go fishing in stunning natural sites located around Rutland.
  • Twin State Speedway: Enjoy dirt track racing in the wonderfully exciting Twin State Speedway.
  • Green Mountain Tours: Explore beautiful sights and landscapes with Green Mountain Tours and its great hiking, biking, and skiing trips.

Week-Long Itinerary for Rutland

For those wanting to spend a week in Rutland, the following itinerary is recommended:

Day 1: Visit downtown Rutland and the Rutland Historical Society Museum.

Day 2: Take a trip to the Norman Rockwell Museum in small-town Rutland.

Day 3: Explore the breathtaking Killington Resort and all its fun activities.

Day 4: Head to Lake Bomoseen State Park and enjoy the beach, fishing, and kayaking.

Day 5: Try your hand at hiking in Gifford Woods State Park.

Day 6: Bike the Rails to Trails path in Rutland and enjoy the scenic views.

Day 7: Relax and unwind, explore the city’s food scene, or take a leisurely hike at Pico Peak.

Food and Drink Scene of Rutland

Rutland has a fantastic culinary scene with a focus on local produce and seasonal ingredients. Here are some must-try dishes:

Must-Try Dishes

  • Maple glazed, smoked pork chops: A local favourite, its served with some delightful sides such as mashed sweet potatoes and green beans.
  • Mains’ls traditional meatloaf: A hearty meatloaf served with herbed mashed potatoes, vegetable of the day, and mushroom gravy.
  • Red Onion quesadilla: A dish made with fresh flour tortillas, marinated red onion, grated cheese, and tomato.

Local Beverages

  • Vermont beer: Infinite varieties of craft beer produced in the local brewery.
  • Vermont wine: The local winery produces exquisite wine varieties that are sure to leave you wanting more.
  • Vermont apple crisp: Sip on one of their famous hot apple ciders, a seasonal delight during the fall season.

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

There is no shortage of accommodation options in Rutland. Here are some top-rated hotels, hostels, and guesthouses you could stay in:

  • The Red Clover Inn: A luxurious getaway, this renovated 1840s farmhouse, is renowned for its cozy rooms and incredible mountain views.
  • Holiday Inn Rutland-Killington Area: This hotel is centrally located and offers indoor and outdoor pools, Jacuzzis, and an on-site restaurant.
  • Quality Inn: Affordable with comfortable facilities, this inn features free breakfast and a fitness center.

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

Here are the best souvenirs from Rutland to bring home for your friends and family:

  • Maple syrup: The most popular souvenir from any Vermont destination, Rutland boasts some of the purest maple syrup in the world.
  • Cheese: The signature of Vermont, there is always a vast selection of locally-made award-winning cheeses sold in the Rutland area.
  • Handmade crafts: From pottery to jewelry to woven baskets, Rutland offers a wide array of handmade crafts from local artisans.

Local Culture and Customs of Rutland

Rutland’s residents are friendly and warm towards visitors to their city. The city boasts of small-town charm and country values. It’s important to be respectful of the local culture and customs, especially in tourist-heavy areas and events.

Best Time to Visit Rutland

The best time to explore Rutland is between June and October, when the weather is mild and pleasant, and the city is bustling with numerous outdoor activities.

Do’s and Don’ts of Rutland

When visiting Rutland, follow these do’s and don’ts:

Do:

  • Respect the local culture and customs.
  • Try adventurous outdoor activities, including hiking and biking.
  • Enjoy locally-made produce, cheese, maple syrup and crafts.

Don’t:

  • Litter or damage any natural attractions or historical sites.
  • Ignore the rules and regulations of the local community, especially in natural locations.

Safety and Health

Safety in Rutland

Rutland is generally safe, but like in any city the visitors must take precautions to protect themselves and their belongings. Keep your car and valuables locked and never leave your personal belongings unattended.

Health in Rutland

Rutland’s water is potable and safe. Bug spray, hats, and sunscreen are necessary for outdoor activities, particularly during the summer months.

Getting to Rutland: Transportation Options and Logistics

Rutland can be easily reached by road, air, or train. Here are some travel options:

Airports Near Rutland

  • Rutland Southern Vermont Regional Airport: The Regional Airport is located 5.6 miles south of downtown Rutland and offers daily flights to Boston on small jets.

Bus Stations Near Rutland

  • Green Mountain Transit: A shuttle service connecting Rutland to several locations
  • TheBus: Rutland’s bus service that features two routes around the city

Other Options

  • Car rentals: Several car rental services are available at Rutland Southern Vermont Regional Airport and in the city.
  • Trains: Amtrak trains are available at the Rutland station that connects Rutland with other major destinations like New York.

How to Get Around in Rutland

The best way to get around in Rutland is by car, but walking and biking are great options for short distances. Public transportation like buses and taxi services are also available.

Where to Go Next from Rutland: Nearby Destinations and Excursions

Those looking for destinations beyond Rutland can venture towards the following locations:

  • Killington: Ski capital of the east: 10 miles/20 minutes
  • Woodstock: Perfect destination for quaint country charm: 32 miles/42 minutes
  • Manchester: Major shopping destinations with various Natural attractions: 61 miles/74 minutes

Conclusion

Rutland is filled with adventures and opportunities to relax and unwind in the heart of Vermont. Rutland promises picturesque views, a friendly local community, and a variety of experiences for travellers of all ages. Plan your trip to this fantastic location today for a one-of-a-kind experience.

A view of the Rutland Downtown Historic District on an overcast day A view of the Rutland Downtown Historic District on an overcast day Center Street lit up at night during a festival, with the historic and still-operating Paramount Theatre on the left Center Street lit up at night during a festival, with the historic and still-operating Paramount Theatre on the left Longfellow School Longfellow School