Things To Do
in Middlebury
Middlebury is a charming town nestled in the heart of Vermont, surrounded by rolling hills and picturesque farmland. The town is known for its vibrant arts community, with galleries, theaters, and music venues showcasing local talent. Outdoor enthusiasts flock to Middlebury to explore the nearby hiking trails, rivers for kayaking, and ski resorts in the winter.
The town also boasts a prestigious liberal arts college, Middlebury College, which brings a youthful energy to the community.
Prices
- 🏠 Accommodation (per night): $100 - $250
- 🍽️ Meal at a Restaurant: $15 - $50
- ☕ Coffee: $3 - $6
- 🚌 Public transport ticket (single journey): $2 - $5
- 🛒 Grocery shopping (per week): $50 - $100
- 🏋️♂️ Gym Membership: $30 - $80
Day Trips
Spend a day exploring around
Start your day with a visit to the Middlebury College campus, renowned for its stunning architecture and beautiful landscapes. Enjoy a coffee at a local caf é to fuel your exploration.
Make your way to the Middlebury Natural Foods Co-op for lunch, where you can sample fresh local produce. Afterward, take a leisurely stroll along the Otter Creek.
For dinner, choose from one of the cozy restaurants downtown. Wrap up your day with a local craft beer at a nearby brewery.
Launch your day with a scenic drive through the rural roads of Vermont, taking in the beautiful autumn foliage if it's the season. Stop for breakfast at a farm-to-table diner for a taste of local flavors.
Head to Bread Loaf for a hike and enjoy the breathtaking views of the Green Mountains. Take a packed lunch with you to enjoy amidst nature.
Return to town and enjoy dinner at a farm-to-table restaurant that features seasonal dishes. Consider attending a cultural event or concert if available.
Strengths and Weaknesses
- Beautiful rural setting with picturesque landscapes and outdoor recreational opportunities.
- Strong sense of community and a friendly atmosphere.
- Home to Middlebury College, which adds cultural and educational resources.
- Rich history and charming downtown area with local shops and restaurants.
- Access to various cultural events and activities throughout the year.
- Limited job opportunities outside of education and tourism sectors.
- High cost of living relative to some surrounding areas.
- Harsh winters with significant snowfall that may not appeal to everyone.
- Limited access to certain amenities and services found in larger cities.
- Public transportation options are minimal, making a car necessary.
Best Activities in Middlebury
Outdoor fun you shouldn't miss!
Explore the scenic trails in the nearby Green Mountain National Forest, offering a variety of routes suitable for all skill levels, with breathtaking views.
Enjoy a day on the water kayaking or canoeing in Lake Champlain, where you can appreciate the stunning landscapes and possibly spot local wildlife.
Take a bike ride along the Middlebury Gap, which provides beautiful vistas and a variety of terrains for cycling enthusiasts.
Spend time at the Middlebury River for fishing, picnicking, or simply enjoying the serene environment and the sounds of nature.
In the winter months, hit the slopes at Middlebury Snow Bowl, which offers a range of skiing and snowboarding options for all levels.
Visit the local Bread & Butter Farm to learn about sustainable farming and enjoy outdoor activities like farm tours and seasonal events.
On clear nights, visit the Middlebury College Observatory for astronomy events and stargazing opportunities in the relatively dark skies of the area.
Tours
Uncover the best of Middlebury with these unforgettable tours.
Places to Visit in Middlebury
Visit one of these nice places.
The beautiful campus features classic architecture, rolling lawns, and a variety of trees, especially stunning in the fall.
Offers open spaces and a view of the surrounding landscape, perfect for capturing local scenery and the school’s art installations.
A picturesque waterfall located in the heart of Middlebury, providing a perfect backdrop for nature photography.
Just a short drive from Middlebury, this location offers breathtaking panoramic views of the Green Mountains, especially at sunset.
A scenic overlook that provides stunning views of the Champlain Valley and is a favorite spot for sunset photography.
Beautiful gardens that provide colorful floral arrangements and artistic sculptures, ideal for unique photo opportunities.
A public art display throughout the town, featuring a variety of sculptures that make for interesting photo compositions.
The brewery offers a scenic outdoor seating area alongside Otter Creek, ideal for capturing local life and nature.
Food in Middlebury
Middlebury Famous Food
Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food
This local frozen treat is made with Vermont's renowned maple syrup and is a must-try for those with a sweet tooth. Head to Greg's Market or LuLu Ice Cream to enjoy this iconic dessert.
Must-Try!
Renowned for its sharp and creamy flavor, Vermont cheddar cheese is a staple of the region. Sample and purchase this cheese at the Vermont Country Store or stop by Middlebury's Farmer's Market for artisanal varieties.
Seasonally available in the spring, fiddlehead ferns are a local delicacy known for their unique taste. Try them at The Arcadian or Carol's Hungry Mind Cafe when in season.
Unique Experiences
Get to know Middlebury better with these unique experiences.
Food Markets
Explore local food markets
Open on Saturdays, this market offers a vibrant array of fresh produce, artisanal cheeses, local maple products, and ready-to-eat foods. It's a great place to explore regional flavors and find unique street food offerings.
This food truck offers a delectable selection of street food, including gourmet burgers, hand-cut fries, and refreshing beverages. Keep an eye out for its schedule at popular spots around Middlebury.
Weather
How to Behave
Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior
Residents of Middlebury typically value friendliness and politeness. It is common to greet others with a smile and a simple 'hello' or 'how are you?'. Acknowledge people you encounter, whether you know them or not.
In Middlebury, as in many parts of the United States, personal space is important. When engaging in conversation, maintain a comfortable distance and avoid standing too close to others unless you know them well.
Middlebury has a strong sense of community. Participating in local events, such as fairs, farmers' markets, or volunteer activities, is a great way to show respect for the community and build connections with residents.
Hidden Gems
Discover the hidden gems of Middlebury with these exclusive activities.
Safety
Tipping in Middlebury
Ensure a smooth experience
In Middlebury, tipping practices generally align with the broader customs observed in the United States. It is common to tip service workers, such as waitstaff in restaurants, typically between 15% to 20% of the total bill. In coffee shops and casual dining venues, customers may leave small change or use a tip jar. Tipping in other service-related areas, such as taxis or hair salons, follows similar guidelines.
Payment practices in Middlebury primarily involve cash, credit, and debit card transactions. Many establishments also accept mobile payments and digital wallets. Larger venues and chains may have contactless payment options available. It's also common for local businesses to encourage the use of cash for small purchases. Overall, payment methods are diverse, catering to a variety of customer preferences.
Top Things To Do
Engage in these activities to dive deeper into Middlebury.
Best Time to Visit
And what to expect in different seasons...
Spring in Middlebury typically lasts from March to May. This season is characterized by mild temperatures, blooming flowers, and vibrant greenery. It's an excellent time for outdoor activities such as hiking and exploring local parks. Visitors can also enjoy various spring festivals and events.
Summer runs from June to August in Middlebury. The weather is warm and ideal for outdoor activities like canoeing and biking. The town hosts various summer events, including farmers' markets and outdoor concerts, making it a lively time to visit. However, visitors should prepare for occasional rain and humidity.
Autumn, from September to November, is a popular season in Middlebury, known for its stunning fall foliage. The vibrant colors of the changing leaves attract many visitors. It’s a great time for hiking and photography, as well as experiencing local harvest festivals. Temperatures begin to cool, making it comfortable for outdoor activities.
Winter in Middlebury lasts from December to February, featuring cold temperatures and snowy landscapes. This season is perfect for winter sports enthusiasts, with opportunities for skiing and snowshoeing. The town also celebrates the holiday season with festive decorations and events, making it a lovely time to experience the winter charm.
Middlebury at Night
Hiking in Middlebury
Immerse in an unforgettable hike.
A network of trails on the Middlebury College campus offering scenic views and diverse terrain for hiking.
A beautiful forested area with numerous hiking trails along Otter Creek, providing peaceful nature experiences.
Located nearby, this park features extensive hiking trails through a mix of wooded and open areas with picturesque landscapes.
Part of the Green Mountain National Forest, this area offers more rugged trails and opportunities for wildlife observation.
A bit further from Middlebury, this park has challenging hikes that lead to panoramic views from the summit of Mount Ascutney.
Unforgettable Journeys
Delve deeper into Middlebury through these rare and unique activities.
Aiports
How to reach Middlebury by plane.
Located approximately 35 miles from Middlebury, BTV is the primary airport serving northern Vermont.
Situated about 130 miles from Middlebury, ALB serves as a major hub for flights in and out of eastern New York.
Located around 150 miles from Middlebury, BDL serves the Hartford and Springfield areas in Connecticut.
Approximately 170 miles from Middlebury, MHT provides access to the greater Boston area and beyond.
About 200 miles from Middlebury, BOS is the largest airport serving the Boston area and offers numerous international flights.
Walkability
Demographics
Explore demographics in this area.
The largest demographic group in Middlebury, consisting predominantly of individuals with European ancestry.
A significant and growing demographic group, encompassing individuals of Spanish-speaking origin or descent.
This group includes individuals with origins in Africa and is a smaller but important segment of the population.
This demographic includes individuals with origins in Asia, including East Asian, South Asian, and Southeast Asian communities.
Individuals identifying with two or more racial categories, reflecting the increasing diversity in the region.
Includes individuals who identify as American Indian or Alaska Native, representing a smaller proportion of the population.
A very small demographic group, consisting of individuals with origins from Hawaii or other Pacific Islands.
The Soul of Middlebury
Discover the essence of Middlebury through these truly unique experiences.
Popular Sports
Explore popular sports in region.
A popular team sport played on a rectangular field, soccer is well-loved among the youth in Middlebury, with many local leagues and school teams.
Basketball is widely played in Middlebury's schools and community centers, fostering competitive spirit and physical fitness.
Ice hockey has a strong following in Middlebury, with local rinks supporting both recreational and competitive teams.
Lacrosse has gained popularity in Middlebury, with several youth leagues and school teams encouraging participation in this fast-paced sport.
With access to beautiful trails and parks, running is a favored individual sport in Middlebury, promoting fitness and community events such as 5K races.
Traffic
Accomodations
Find the best place to stay when visiting Middlebury.
Dietary Restrictions
Tips for restricted diets.
Many eateries in Middlebury offer an array of vegetarian and vegan dishes. Look out for plant-based entrees, hearty salads, and creative veggie-centric plates at various restaurants and cafes in the area.
Visitors with gluten sensitivities can enjoy a selection of gluten-free options at establishments like Two Brothers Tavern and American Flatbread. These venues offer gluten-free pizzas, sandwiches, and other delectable treats.
Cultural Immersions
Experience the heart and soul of Middlebury with these cultural adventures.
