Top Five Popular Attractions between Bridgewater, NH and Charlotte, VT
If you're looking for a scenic road trip filled with charming attractions and stunning views, you'll find it between Bridgewater, New Hampshire and Charlotte, Vermont. This route is filled with unique stops that cater to all interests. From historical landmarks to spectacular natural features, here are the top five places you don't want to miss on your journey.
Barre, VT - the Halfway Point
Before we get started on our top five attractions, let's talk a little bit about the midway point of this trip: Barre, Vermont. This small town is known as "The Granite Capital of the World", and for good reason. Barre has been producing high-quality granite for over a century, and it shows in the town's architecture. Take a walk down Main Street and admire the Granite Sculpture Trail, featuring works by local artists crafted from the area's famous stone. Notable stops include Hope Cemetery, which boasts a vast collection of granite headstones and monuments, and the Vermont Granite Museum, which chronicles the town's history of granite production.
Top Five Places to See
1. Quechee Gorge State Park
Start your journey off with a bang at Quechee Gorge State Park. This park features one of the deepest gorges in Vermont, carving a path through the lush forest. A bridge spans the top of the gorge, offering a breathtaking view of the water rushing below. Hiking trails wind throughout the park, providing ample opportunities to explore the natural beauty of Vermont.
2. Vermont Institute of Natural Science
The Vermont Institute of Natural Science, or VINS, is dedicated to educating the public about the natural world and promoting conservation. Their Nature Center is located in Quechee, Vermont, and provides visitors the chance to meet birds of prey up close and personal. Raptors such as eagles, owls, and hawks are on display, and visitors can watch as handlers demonstrate how they are trained. VINS also has a rehabilitation clinic on site, providing care for injured birds of prey before releasing them back into the wild.
3. Montpelier, VT - State Capitol Building
Montpelier, Vermont's capital city, is worth a stop on your road trip. The state capitol building is open to the public for tours, providing a glimpse of the inner workings of Vermont's government. The building itself is a marvel of architecture, featuring a dome made from Vermont granite. Tours also include stops at the Vermont Supreme Court and the House of Representatives, providing a well-rounded perspective of the state's political system.
4. Cold Hollow Cider Mill
If you're traveling through the area during the fall months, a stop at the Cold Hollow Cider Mill in Waterbury is a must. This mill has been producing fresh apple cider since 1974, using a traditional stone press to squeeze the juice from the apples. Visitors can watch as the cider is made and even sample a glass of the sweet and tangy beverage. The mill also produces fresh apple cider donuts, orchard fruits, and Vermont maple syrup.
5. Shelburne Farms
Shelburne Farms is a nonprofit organization dedicated to sustainable agriculture and education. The farm itself is situated on Lake Champlain, providing stunning views of the water and the Adirondack Mountains. Visitors can take a tour of the gorgeous grounds, featuring a historic mansion and acres of farmland. Shelburne Farms also hosts a variety of events throughout the year, including farm-to-table dinners and educational workshops.
Conclusion
This road trip between Bridgewater, New Hampshire and Charlotte, Vermont is filled with unique attractions and stunning natural features. From the deep gorge at Quechee Gorge State Park to the sustainable agriculture education at Shelburne Farms, this route has something for everyone. Whether you're a history buff, nature enthusiast, or foodie, these top five places to visit won't disappoint. To make the most of your journey, take Highway 100 through the heart of Vermont, ensuring you catch all the beauty this state has to offer.