Things To Do
in Middlebury
Middlebury, Vermont is a quintessential New England town anchored by the venerable Middlebury College and a lively, walkable downtown. The town blends historic brick landmarks with scenic rivers, rolling hills, and farm-to-table cuisine. Visitors can enjoy cultural institutions, independent shops, and easy access to outdoor adventures in the Green Mountains.
With a friendly, small-town vibe and four distinct seasons, Middlebury offers culture, nature, and a welcoming community scene.
Day Trips
Spend a day exploring around
Start your day with a leisurely breakfast at a local café, savoring fresh pastries and coffee. Afterward, take a walking tour of Middlebury's historic downtown area, admiring the beautiful architecture and learning about the town's rich history. Don't miss the iconic Middlebury College campus, where you can stroll through the scenic grounds and visit the art museum.
Enjoy lunch at a farm-to-table restaurant, where seasonal ingredients are highlighted in every dish. After your meal, visit the Henry Sheldon Museum to delve into the local history and culture of the area. Spend the afternoon exploring the nearby Otter Creek, where you can relax by the water or take a kayak out for a tranquil paddle.
As the sun sets, enjoy dinner at a charming bistro that offers a cozy atmosphere and locally-sourced ingredients. Afterward, catch a performance at the Town Hall Theater, which often features live music or community productions. Conclude your evening with a stroll along the picturesque streets, soaking in the serene ambiance of Middlebury at night.
Begin your day with a hearty breakfast, then head to the Bread Loaf campus for some invigorating hiking. The trails here offer stunning views of the surrounding mountains and a chance to appreciate the fall foliage if you’re visiting in autumn. Take your time to enjoy the natural beauty and perhaps catch a glimpse of local wildlife.
Pack a picnic lunch to enjoy amidst the serene backdrop of the Green Mountains. Afterward, continue your hiking adventure, exploring different trails that range from easy strolls to challenging hikes. Make sure to take breaks to snap photos of breathtaking vistas and the vibrant landscape.
Return to Middlebury and treat yourself to a well-deserved dinner at a local pub, where you can enjoy hearty comfort food. After your meal, take a leisurely drive through the countryside to witness the sunset over the mountains. Conclude your evening by unwinding at your accommodation, perhaps with a good book or a warm drink.
Prices
| Item | Price |
|---|---|
| 🍔Meal at inexpensive restaurant | $10-15 |
| 🏨One night in a mid-range hotel | $120-180 |
| 🧀A pound of local cheddar cheese | $8-12 |
| 🚗Gasoline (per gallon) | $3.50-4.50 |
| ☕Coffee at a cafe | $3-5 |
Strengths and Weaknesses
- Charming downtown with preserved architecture
- Close proximity to outdoor recreation and scenery
- Limited nightlife compared to bigger cities
- Winter travel can be challenging due to snow and cold
Places to Visit in Middlebury
Visit one of these nice places.
Historic brick storefronts, brick sidewalks, and a scenic riverfront setting provide classic Vermont street photography opportunities.
Waterfalls and rushing water along Otter Creek, especially dramatic after rainfall or in early spring.
Gothic-inspired architecture, landscaped quads, and formal greens, perfect for architectural and landscape photos.
Museum grounds and surrounding streets offer historic charm and period architecture for photos.
Food in Middlebury
Middlebury Famous Food
Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food
A sweet-savory dish often paired with roasted root vegetables; commonly found on dinner menus at local bistros and farm-to-table spots.
Must-Try!
A quintessential Vermont comfort food, featuring sharp cheddar and seasonal accompaniments on crusty bread at neighborhood cafes.
Sweet treats featuring locally produced maple syrup and dairy, available at bakeries and cafes around town.
Food Markets
Explore local food markets
Seasonal market offering fresh produce, dairy, meats, baked goods, and artisanal products from Addison County producers.
Outdoor market with local vendors offering seasonal fare, prepared foods, and crafts on market days.
Weather
How to Behave
Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior
Vermont communities value polite, low-key interactions. Hold doors, say please and thank you, and respect private property and local norms when visiting homes or shops.
Safety
Tipping in Middlebury
Ensure a smooth experience
In restaurants and bars, a standard tip is 15–20% of the bill before tax. For counter service or takeaway, tipping is not required but appreciated for exceptional service.
Best Time to Visit
And what to expect in different seasons...
Warm days with refreshing coastal-like breezes, extended daylight, and outdoor events. Great for outdoor dining, markets, and river walks.
Peak foliage season; vibrant colors, cool mornings, and comfortable daytime temps. Ideal for scenic drives and hikes.
Cold with significant snowfall possible; opportunities for nearby ski resorts and winter activities. Dress in layers and be mindful of icy sidewalks.
Mild temperatures with blooming trees and slower-paced outdoor life as nature reawakens. Rain is common; waterproof footwear helps.
Middlebury at Night
Hiking in Middlebury
Immerse in an unforgettable hike.
A classic Green Mountain hike with rewarding summit views of the Champlain Valley.
A challenging climb near Bristol with forested sections and vistas along the ridge.
Accessible trails along Otter Creek offering scenic river views and easy to moderate difficulty.
Airports
How to reach Middlebury by plane.
Approximately 40-60 miles north; accessible by car or shuttle.
Approximately 150 miles south; major hub with frequent domestic flights.
Approximately 50-60 miles south; regional flights and limited schedules.
Walkability
Demographics
Explore demographics in this area.
A steady presence from Middlebury College contributes an educated, youthful presence and campus-driven events.
Tight-knit community with family-friendly activities and neighborhood networks.
Tourists and seasonal staff bring activity during peak seasons and holidays.
Popular Sports
Explore popular sports in region.
Nearby Green Mountain resorts offer winter sports across Killington, Pico, and Okemo within driving distance.
Green Mountains and surrounding forests provide abundant trails for all levels.
Scenic country roads and valley routes make for enjoyable road and mountain biking.
Traffic
Accomodations
Find the best place to stay when visiting Middlebury.
Dietary Restrictions
Tips for restricted diets.
Look for farm-to-table menus, seasonal vegetable plates, veggie burgers, and cheese-forward dishes; many spots offer creative meat-free options and salads.