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Southern Vermont

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Vermont can be divided into three portions: southern, central, and northern Vermont. Each have unique cities and attractions. Because southern Vermont is closest to New York City, it has a partially defined role as a vacation destination for the weary city-dweller. Central Vermont is known for skiing, and Northern Vermont is an eclectic mix of hippie-urbanism and expansive natural scenery. They are each dotted with lovely towns, verdant hills, and stroll-worthy villages.

Bennington, Arlington, Manchester, and Dorset

Southeastern Vermont was Norman Rockwell’s stomping grounds (specifically, Arlington), and you will see how his art was influenced by his tranquil surroundings. Bennington is Vermont’s third largest city. It was the site of the Revolutionary War’s Battle of Bennington, which is remembered by a memorial resembling the Washington monument. The city is also home to Bennington College. Another Vermont son, Robert Frost, is buried in the First Congregational Church cemetery.

Arlington, Manchester, and Dorset are a cluster of towns just off the rolling hills of the Green Mountains. Manchester was a resort town for the well-to-do back in the day, a fact clearly seen in the stately Federal architecture. It is home to Hildene, the 24-room Georgian Revival mansion built by Robert Todd Lincoln (son of Abraham and Mary Todd Lincoln). Dorset is quieter and less grandiose, but no less impressive.

The Southern Green Mountains

The Green Mountains define (literally) Vermont. Besides giving the state its original French name, they are viewed as the state’s collective backyard where all the residents go out to play. There are about 500,000 acres in the Green Mountain National Forest, offering fantastic hiking, biking, and camping. Canoeing is popular as well, if you would like to tour the area on water.

Brattleboro, Putney, Nefane, Townshend, Grafton, and Chester

Southeastern Vermont is home to Brattleboro, a hub of sorts for the surrounding villages. It is a good home base for exploring the surrounding areas. The Mount Snow ski region is close by and has a lovely village tucked in at the base of the mountain. This is the closest ski area to both Boston and New York City, so it can become a bit crowded at times.

Putney is the epitome of an artist’s village, and its carefree quality makes for a pleasant afternoon stroll. Nearby are Newfane and Townshend, two quaint villages about five miles from one another. Two more villages, Grafton and Chester, are just up the road. They are all worth a visit, as they represent the images you probably already have in your head when envisioning Vermont.

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