Springfield Travel Guide

Discover the best attractions, activities, food, and accommodations in Springfield, Vermont. Plan your perfect vacation with our week-long itinerary and travel tips.


Introduction to Springfield

Nestled in the southern region of Vermont, Springfield is a charming town with a rich heritage and stunning scenic views. With a population of around 8,000 people, it’s the perfect destination for those looking to get away from the hustle and bustle of city life. In this comprehensive guide to Springfield, we’ll explore the top attractions, outdoor adventures, delicious food, and local culture of this tranquil town.

List of Places to Visit in Springfield

Springfield offers an abundance of cultural and natural attractions that are sure to delight visitors of all ages. Here’s a breakdown of the top places to visit in Springfield:

Culturally Important Attractions: Museums and Historical Places

  • The Eureka Schoolhouse and Baltimore Covered Bridge: A must-see for history buffs, this one-room schoolhouse provides a glimpse into what education was like in the 19th century. The Baltimore Covered Bridge, which spans over the Williams River, is a reminder of the town’s past when covered bridges were vital to transportation.
  • The Hartness House: Built in 1903, this magnificent mansion was home to James Hartness, a prominent businessman and inventor. Today, it’s a bed and breakfast that offers tours and a chance to explore the estate and its beautiful gardens.
  • The Springfield Museum: Dedicated to preserving the town’s history, this museum features exhibits ranging from the town’s early days to the Industrial Revolution.

Natural Attractions of Springfield: Outdoor Adventures and Scenic Views

  • The Black River: A popular spot for fishing and canoeing, the Black River also has several hiking trails that offer breathtaking views of the surrounding forests and mountains.
  • Crown Point Country Club: This picturesque golf course is surrounded by rolling hills and is a favorite for golf enthusiasts of all skill levels.
  • Mt. Ascutney State Park: Located just a short drive from Springfield, this state park offers hiking trails, picnic areas, camping sites, and breathtaking views of the Connecticut River Valley.

Hiking/Biking Routes of Springfield

Springfield and the surrounding area is a treasure trove of hiking and biking trails that showcase the town’s natural beauty.

  • Baltimore Covered Bridge Trail: This easy 2.5-mile trail takes you through the woods and across the Baltimore Covered Bridge.
  • Mt. Ascutney Trail: This 3.7-mile trail is a bit more challenging but rewards hikers with panoramic views of the surrounding hills and valleys.
  • The West River Trail: This 36-mile trail, which follows the West River, is perfect for bikers and offers stunning views of the river and its surrounding landscape.

Best Things to Do in Springfield: Activities and Tours

There are plenty of fun activities to do in Springfield. Here are some of the top things to try:

  • Attend the Vermont Apple Festival: Held every October, this festival celebrates Vermont’s apple harvest season with live music, food vendors, and activities for all ages.
  • Take a Covered Bridge Tour: Rent a car and explore the area’s covered bridges, including the Baltimore, Eureka, and Comstock Covered Bridges.
  • Visit the Springfield Farmers Market: Open every Saturday from May through October, this farmers market features fresh produce, homemade baked goods, and artisan crafts.

Week-Long Itinerary for Springfield

If you’re planning a week-long trip to Springfield, here’s a sample itinerary to help you make the most of your time:

Day Activity
1 Arrival and check-in at Hartness House
2 Hike Mt. Ascutney Trail
3 Visit the Springfield Museum and take a Covered Bridge Tour
4 Play a round of golf at Crown Point Country Club
5 Explore the West River Trail
6 Attend the Vermont Apple Festival
7 Departure and check-out of Hartness House

Food and Drink Scene of Springfield

When it comes to food and drink in Springfield, you’ll find plenty of options that celebrate the town’s local flavors.

Must-Try Dishes

  • Vermont Maple Syrup: Drizzle this sweet syrup on pancakes, waffles, or French toast.
  • Vermont Cheddar Cheese: Creamy, tangy, and full of flavor, this cheese is a staple in Vermont cuisine.
  • Apple Cider Donuts: Made with fresh apples and cinnamon, these donuts are a staple at farmers markets and apple orchards.

Local Beverages

  • Vermont Craft Beer: With over 50 craft breweries in Vermont, you’ll have plenty of options to try.
  • Vermont Hard Cider: Made with locally sourced apples, this refreshing cider is a favorite among locals.
  • Vermont Maple Syrup Latte: This sweet and nutty latte is made with locally sourced maple syrup and is the perfect pick-me-up on a crisp fall morning.

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

Springfield has plenty of accommodation options that cater to all budgets.

  • Hartness House: This historic bed and breakfast offers elegant rooms, delicious breakfast, and tours of the estate and gardens.
  • Motel in the Meadow: This family-friendly motel features an outdoor pool, free breakfast, and easy access to hiking and biking trails.
  • Holiday Inn Express Springfield: Offering affordable rooms, an indoor pool, and complimentary breakfast, this hotel is perfect for families and business travelers.

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

If you’re looking for a unique souvenir or gift, you’ll find plenty of options in Springfield.

  • Maple Syrup: Stock up on this sweet and delicious syrup to bring home as a gift or for yourself.
  • Local Artisan Crafts: Springfield has plenty of local artisans who sell handmade crafts, such as pottery, quilts, and jewelry.
  • Vermont Souvenirs: From t-shirts to shot glasses, you’ll find plenty of Vermont-themed souvenirs to bring home.

Local Culture and Customs of Springfield

Springfield is a friendly town that embraces its rural roots. You’ll find that the locals are warm and welcoming and are proud of their local heritage. If you’re visiting during the fall, be sure to catch a high school football game, which is an important part of the town’s culture.

Best Time to Visit Springfield

Springfield is a year-round destination, but it’s especially beautiful during the fall when the leaves change colors. If you’re planning on attending the Vermont Apple Festival, be sure to visit in October. During the winter, you can enjoy skiing and snowboarding at nearby resorts, making it a great destination for winter sports enthusiasts.

Do’s and Don’ts of Springfield

When visiting Springfield, here are some do’s and don’ts to keep in mind:

Do:

  • Respect the local culture and customs.
  • Take the time to explore the town and its surrounding areas.
  • Try the local cuisine and beverages.

Don’t:

  • Trespass on private property.
  • Litter or damage the town’s natural beauty.
  • Forget to bring warm clothing during the fall and winter months.

Safety and Health

Springfield is a safe town, and visitors should not be overly concerned about their safety. However, it’s always a good idea to take precautions and be aware of your surroundings.

Safety in Springfield

  • Lock your car and hotel room doors.
  • Avoid walking alone at night in unfamiliar areas.

Health in Springfield

  • Bring your own medications and first-aid supplies.
  • Drink bottled water if you’re unsure of the purity of the local water supply.

Getting to Springfield: Transportation Options and Logistics

Springfield is located in southern Vermont and is easily accessible by car and bus.

Airports Near Springfield

  • Hartness State Airport: Located just outside Springfield, this airport offers private and charter flights.

Bus Stations Near Springfield

  • Springfield Bus Station: Located in downtown Springfield, this bus station is served by Greyhound and Vermont Translines.

Other Options

  • Car Rental: Renting a car is the best way to explore Springfield and its surrounding areas.
  • Taxi: Taxis are available in Springfield, but it’s best to arrange for a ride in advance.

How to Get Around in Springfield

Springfield is a small town that can be easily explored on foot. However, if you’re planning on visiting nearby attractions, renting a car is the best option.

Where to Go Next from Springfield: Nearby Destinations and Excursions

If you’re looking to explore beyond Springfield, there are plenty of nearby destinations to visit.

  • Woodstock: This charming town is just a short drive from Springfield and features a quaint downtown, covered bridges, and stunning fall foliage.
  • Killington Mountain: This popular ski resort is a favorite among winter sports enthusiasts and features skiing, snowboarding, and other winter activities.
  • Brattleboro: Located on the southeastern border of Vermont, this bustling town is home to art galleries, restaurants, and unique shops.

Conclusion

Whether you’re looking for a relaxing getaway or an outdoor adventure, Springfield, Vermont, has something for everyone. With its stunning scenery, rich history, and friendly locals, this charming town is the perfect destination for your next vacation.

Eureka Schoolhouse Eureka Schoolhouse