Wilmington Travel Guide

Discover the best attractions, activities, food and drink, where to stay, and helpful tips for your trip to Wilmington, Vermont.


Introduction to Wilmington

Located in Southern Vermont, Wilmington is a charming town that offers visitors the perfect blend of outdoor recreation, cultural attractions, and small-town charm. Nestled in the Green Mountains, this picturesque town is surrounded by stunning natural beauty, making it an ideal destination for outdoor enthusiasts. Whether you’re looking to explore the great outdoors, immerse yourself in local culture, or simply relax and unwind, Wilmington has something to offer everyone. In this comprehensive guide, we’ll take a closer look at the top attractions, activities, and tips for your trip to Wilmington.

List of Places to Visit in Wilmington

Here are some of the top places to visit in Wilmington:

Culturally Important Attractions: Museums and Historical Places

Wilmington is a town with a rich history and culture, with plenty of museums and historical sites to explore. Here are some of the must-see attractions:

  • The Molly Stark Trail: This 48-mile trail is a scenic drive that takes visitors through some of Vermont’s most beautiful landscapes. The trail follows the route that General John Stark and his troops took during the American Revolution.

  • Adams Family Farm: This working farm offers visitors an up-close look at traditional farming practices. From feeding the animals to harvesting crops, visitors can participate in a variety of farm activities.

  • The Wilmington Historical Society: This local historical society offers a tour of the historic Methodist Episcopal Church, which was built in 1886 and currently houses the society’s museum.

Natural Attractions of Wilmington: Outdoor Adventures and Scenic Views

Wilmington is surrounded by stunning natural beauty, with plenty of opportunities for outdoor adventures and scenic views. Here are some of the top natural attractions in the area:

  • Mount Snow: This popular ski resort offers year-round attractions, including skiing, snowboarding, mountain biking, and scenic chairlift rides.

  • Harriman Reservoir: This beautiful lake is surrounded by miles of hiking trails, making it a popular destination for outdoor enthusiasts.

  • The Green Mountain National Forest: This forest boasts over 400,000 acres of protected wilderness, with plenty of opportunities for hiking, camping, and wildlife viewing.

Hiking/Biking Routes of Wilmington

Wilmington offers plenty of opportunities for hiking and biking enthusiasts. Here are some of the top routes to explore:

  • The Harriman Reservoir Trail: This 16-mile trail follows the shoreline of Harriman Reservoir, offering beautiful views of the lake and surrounding mountains.

  • The Mount Snow Bike Park: This bike park offers over 30 miles of trails, suitable for riders of all skill levels.

  • The Catamount Trail: This 300-mile trail runs from Massachusetts to Canada, passing through Wilmington along the way.

Best Things to Do in Wilmington: Activities and Tours

From outdoor adventures to cultural attractions, there are plenty of activities and tours to enjoy in Wilmington. Here are some of the top things to do:

  • Take a scenic drive along the Molly Stark Trail, stopping at historic sites along the way.

  • Visit the Adams Family Farm for an up-close look at traditional farming practices.

  • Ski, snowboard, or go tubing at the Mount Snow Ski Resort.

  • Explore the Green Mountain National Forest on foot or by bike.

Week-Long Itinerary for Wilmington

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

Day 1: Explore the town of Wilmington, visiting local shops and restaurants.

Day 2: Take a scenic drive along the Molly Stark Trail, stopping at historic sites along the way.

Day 3: Visit Harriman Reservoir for hiking or kayaking.

Day 4: Take a day trip to Manchester, Vermont, to explore local cultural attractions and shops.

Day 5: Ski or snowboard at the Mount Snow Ski Resort.

Day 6: Visit the Adams Family Farm for an up-close look at traditional farming practices.

Day 7: Relax and unwind in Wilmington, enjoying local food and drink.

Food and Drink Scene of Wilmington

With plenty of local farms and a focus on farm-to-table cuisine, Wilmington has a thriving food and drink scene. Here are some of the top dishes and beverages to try:

Must-Try Dishes

  • Maple-glazed pork chops: This local specialty features locally-sourced pork chops glazed with Vermont maple syrup.

  • Farm-fresh salads: Many local restaurants feature salads made with fresh, locally-sourced produce.

Local Beverages

  • Apple cider: Vermont is known for its apple orchards, and a glass of locally-produced apple cider is the perfect way to enjoy the region’s fall foliage.

  • Craft beer: Vermont is home to a thriving craft beer scene, with plenty of local breweries to explore.

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

Wilmington offers a variety of accommodation options, from cozy bed and breakfasts to upscale resorts. Here are some of the top places to stay:

  • The Wilmington Inn: This historic inn offers guests a cozy and comfortable stay, with plenty of amenities to enjoy.

  • The Hermitage Club: This upscale resort offers guests access to a variety of amenities, including a golf course, ski slopes, and a spa.

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

If you’re looking for souvenirs or locally-made products to bring home from Wilmington, here are some of the best options:

  • Vermont maple syrup: This classic Vermont product is available at many local shops and farm stands.

  • Handmade crafts: Many local artisans make handmade crafts, such as pottery, quilts, and knitted goods.

Local Culture and Customs of Wilmington

Wilmington is a small town with a deep sense of local pride and culture. Visitors should be respectful of local customs and traditions, and take the time to learn about the town’s history and heritage.

Best Time to Visit Wilmington

Wilmington is a popular destination year-round, with each season offering its own unique attractions. Fall is a particularly popular time to visit, as visitors can enjoy the region’s stunning fall foliage. Winter is also a popular time to visit, as the Mount Snow Ski Resort offers plenty of wintertime activities. Spring and summer offer opportunities for hiking, biking, and exploring the region’s natural beauty.

Do’s and Don’ts of Wilmington

To make the most of your trip to Wilmington, here are some helpful do’s and don’ts:

Do:

  • Take a scenic drive along the Molly Stark Trail to see historic sites and stunning natural beauty.

  • Visit local farms and shops to sample locally-made products and learn about the region’s agricultural heritage.

Don’t:

  • Don’t litter or damage natural areas.

  • Don’t be rude or disrespectful to locals.

Safety and Health

Wilmington is a safe and healthy destination, with modern healthcare facilities and plenty of opportunities for outdoor recreation. Here are some important tips for staying safe and healthy during your trip:

Safety in Wilmington

  • Be aware of weather conditions if planning outdoor activities, and be prepared for changing weather conditions.

  • Follow safety guidelines if participating in winter sports such as skiing or snowboarding.

Health in Wilmington

  • Make sure to bring any necessary medications or medical supplies with you, as healthcare facilities may not be located nearby.

Getting to Wilmington: Transportation Options and Logistics

Wilmington is located in Southern Vermont, and can be reached by car or bus. Here are some of the top transportation options:

Airports Near Wilmington

  • Albany International Airport (ALB): Approximately 70 miles from Wilmington.

  • Bradley International Airport (BDL): Approximately 100 miles from Wilmington.

Bus Stations Near Wilmington

  • Greyhound: Stops in Brattleboro, approximately 15 miles from Wilmington.

Other Options

  • Driving: Wilmington is located approximately 3 hours from Boston, 4.5 hours from New York City, and 3 hours from Montreal.

How to Get Around in Wilmington

Wilmington is a small town that is easy to navigate on foot or by car. Bike rentals are also available for those who prefer to explore the town on two wheels.

Where to Go Next from Wilmington: Nearby Destinations and Excursions

If you’re looking to explore the surrounding region, here are some nearby destinations and excursions to consider:

  • Manchester, Vermont: This charming town offers plenty of local shops and cultural attractions.

  • The Green Mountain National Forest: This protected wilderness area offers plenty of opportunities for hiking, camping, and exploring the great outdoors.

Conclusion

Whether you’re looking to explore the great outdoors, immerse yourself in local culture, or simply relax and unwind, Wilmington offers something for everyone. From scenic drives and outdoor adventures to local cuisine and cultural attractions, this charming town is the perfect destination for your Vermont getaway.