Your Ultimate Guide to Brattleboro, VT: Things to Do, Eat, and Explore

Nestled in the scenic Green Mountains of Vermont, Brattleboro is a charming town that offers a perfect mix of outdoor adventures, cultural experiences, and culinary delights. Whether you're visiting for the day or planning a weekend getaway, there's something for everyone. Located just a short drive from The Summit Winery in Westmoreland, NH, this guide will help you explore all that Brattleboro and its surroundings have to offer within a 40-mile radius.

1. Savor Local Flavors: Top Restaurants & Breweries in Brattleboro

Brattleboro is a foodie’s paradise, offering everything from farm-to-table cuisine to international flavors. Here are a few must-visit spots:

The Works Bakery Café (worksbakerycafe.com): A community-centered café emphasizing sustainability and quality, The Works offers artisan sandwiches, freshly baked bagels, and organic coffee. Their cozy atmosphere and commitment to sourcing local ingredients make it a wonderful choice for breakfast or a quick midday pick-me-up.

Peter Havens Restaurant (peterhavens.com): This elegant dining spot is perfect for special occasions or romantic evenings. Known for its intimate atmosphere and menu of expertly prepared dishes, Peter Havens focuses on locally sourced and seasonal ingredients, offering a true fine-dining experience in the heart of Brattleboro.

2. Sip and Relax: Wineries, Breweries, Distilleries

For wine, beer, and distilled drinks lovers, the Brattleboro VT area, West Chesterfield, NH, and Westmoreland, NH boast several destinations:

Whetstone Beer Co. (whetstonebeer.com): Located on Frost Street in Brattleboro, this brewery has a very nice tasting room and brews beer for the new brand North Chair Brewing. Check out their selection of craft beers.

The Summit Winery: Located just a short drive away in Westmoreland, NH, The Summit Winery is a haven for wine enthusiasts. Their handcrafted wines, including signature reds and whites, are made with meticulous care. Visitors can enjoy tastings in a serene setting with picturesque views, making it a delightful stop for couples, friends, or solo adventurers.

Saxtons River Distillery (saxtonsdistillery.com): Located in Brattleboro, Saxtons River Distillery specializes in artisanal spirits crafted with local ingredients. Visitors can enjoy tastings of their maple liqueur, gin, and bourbon, and learn about their unique distillation process.

Copper Cannon Distillery (coppercannon.com): Nestled in West Chesterfield, Copper Cannon Distillery offers handcrafted small-batch spirits with tours and tastings that showcase their dedication to quality and innovation. Their innovative brewing techniques honor traditional methods while introducing unique flavors. Stop by their taproom to sample a variety of sours and learn more about their sustainable brewing practices.

3. Hit the Slopes: Ski Areas Near Brattleboro

Winter sports enthusiasts will find several ski areas within a short drive:

Mount Snow (mountsnow.com): About 25 miles west of Brattleboro, Mount Snow is one of the most popular ski resorts in the region. It features a wide range of trails for skiers and snowboarders of all skill levels, along with excellent snowmaking capabilities and a vibrant après-ski scene. The resort also offers snowshoeing, tubing, and various events throughout the winter season.

Stratton Mountain Resort (stratton.com): Located approximately 40 miles north of Brattleboro, Stratton Mountain Resort is a premier destination for skiing and snowboarding. The resort features over 99 trails, an impressive village with shops and dining, and year-round activities like hiking and golf. It’s an excellent choice for both beginners and experienced adventurers.

Bromley Mountain (bromley.com): Known as Vermont’s "Sun Mountain," Bromley is a family-friendly ski area offering a range of beginner to intermediate slopes. In the summer, it transforms into an adventure park with activities like an alpine slide, zip lines, and climbing walls, making it a great destination any time of year.

4. Explore the Arts Scene

Brattleboro is known for its vibrant arts community:

Brattleboro Museum & Art Center (brattleboromuseum.org): This contemporary art museum showcases an ever-changing array of exhibitions that highlight local, national, and international artists. Visitors can participate in workshops, attend lectures, and explore thought-provoking installations in a welcoming and inclusive space.

Latchis Theatre (latchis.com): A historic art deco theater located in the heart of downtown Brattleboro, the Latchis offers an eclectic mix of movies, live performances, and community events. The building itself is a work of art, with stunning architectural details that add to its charm.

River Gallery School of Art (rivergalleryschool.org): A creative hub for artists of all ages and skill levels, the River Gallery School provides classes, workshops, and studio space. It’s a wonderful place to immerse yourself in the local art scene and perhaps create a masterpiece of your own.

5. Take a Scenic Hike

The natural beauty of the Brattleboro area makes it a hiker’s dream:

Fort Dummer State Park (vtstateparks.com): This historic state park offers a network of trails that wind through lush woodlands and along scenic overlooks of the Connecticut River. Perfect for a leisurely day hike, the park is also a great spot for picnicking and wildlife observation.

Pisgah State Park (nhstateparks.org): Spanning more than 13,000 acres, Pisgah State Park is the largest state park in New Hampshire. Its extensive trail system is ideal for hiking, mountain biking, and snowshoeing, offering a chance to explore diverse habitats and stunning natural landscapes. Pisgah State Park: 520 Old Chesterfield Road, Winchester, NH 03470

Mount Wantastiquet: This moderately challenging hike rewards visitors with breathtaking panoramic views of Brattleboro and the Connecticut River Valley. The trail is steep but manageable, making it a rewarding adventure for those seeking a bit of a workout. Mount Wantastiquet: Mountain Road, Hinsdale, NH 03451

6. Browse Unique Shops and Markets

Brattleboro’s downtown is full of charming shops and markets:

Brattleboro Food Co-op (brattleborofoodcoop.coop): A cornerstone of the community, this cooperative market offers a wide selection of organic and locally sourced products. Shoppers can find everything from fresh produce to specialty cheeses and enjoy a meal at the in-store café.

7. Enjoy Live Music and Entertainment

The town has an impressive lineup of live performances:

The Stone Church (stonechurchvt.com): Housed in a beautifully restored historic building, The Stone Church is a vibrant music venue that hosts an eclectic range of performances, from indie rock bands to jazz ensembles. Its intimate setting and great acoustics make it a favorite among locals and visitors alike.

Next Stage Arts Project (nextstagearts.org): Located in nearby Putney, this dynamic arts venue offers a diverse calendar of events, including concerts, theater productions, and film screenings. It’s a cultural hub that celebrates creativity and community.

Vermont Jazz Center (vtjazz.org): A world-renowned center for jazz education and performance, the Vermont Jazz Center hosts concerts, workshops, and jam sessions. It’s a must-visit for music lovers and aspiring musicians.

8. Visit Local Landmarks and Historical Sites

Dive into the history of the area with these attractions:

Estey Organ Museum (esteyorganmuseum.org): Dedicated to preserving the legacy of the Estey Organ Company, this museum offers a fascinating glimpse into the history of organ manufacturing. Visitors can explore exhibits, hear live demonstrations, and learn about the company’s impact on the region.

Retreat Farm (retreatfarm.org): A historic farmstead that’s been transformed into a community hub, Retreat Farm features interactive exhibits, walking trails, and seasonal events. It’s an excellent destination for families and anyone interested in agriculture and sustainability.

Scott Farm Orchard (scottfarmvermont.com): This historic orchard is known for its heirloom apples and cider. Visitors can enjoy apple picking, taste freshly pressed cider, and explore the picturesque grounds.

9. Fun for Families

If you’re traveling with kids, check out these activities:

Living Memorial Park: This community park offers a range of recreational activities, including a playground, pool, and seasonal ice skating rink. It’s a great spot for families to spend an afternoon outdoors.

Santa’s Land USA (santaslandusa.com): A whimsical amusement park designed to delight children of all ages. From holiday-themed rides to interactive exhibits, it’s a magical experience for the whole family.

Bonnyvale Environmental Education Center (beec.org): Dedicated to connecting people with nature, this center offers educational programs, nature trails, and events focused on local ecology and wildlife conservation.

10. Where to Stay: Cozy Accommodations

Complete your trip with a stay at one of these charming locations:

The Inn on Putney Road (innonputneyroad.com): This luxurious bed and breakfast combines historic charm with modern amenities. Guests can enjoy beautifully appointed rooms, a gourmet breakfast, and easy access to Brattleboro’s downtown attractions. The Inn on Putney Road: 192 Putney Road, Brattleboro, VT 05301

Latchis Hotel (latchishotel.com): Located in the heart of downtown, this boutique hotel offers a unique blend of Art Deco style and contemporary comfort. Its convenient location makes it an excellent choice for exploring the area.

Plan Your Visit to Brattleboro, VT

Brattleboro is a gateway to adventure, relaxation, and discovery. Whether you’re enjoying a glass of wine at The Summit Winery or exploring the cultural and natural wonders of the area, there’s no shortage of things to do. Be sure to check out the websites linked throughout this guide to plan your perfect itinerary.

About The Summit Winery

The Summit Winery sources grapes from all over the world to bring you the varietals you know and love. Sauvignon Blanc, Chardonnay, Riesling, Red Zinfandel and Cabernet Sauvignon are just a few to start. These classic wines make every casual get together or sit down dinner a story to tell. Learn more about our wine.