Welcome to yet another adventure within an adventure here at Tourist Lookup. We’re about to take you through the wonderful town of Waitsfield. We’re going to stimulate your imagination so much that you’ll feel satisfied even before visiting there. That’s why we call it an adventure within an adventure!
So if you are new here, sit back, relax, and grab a cup of coffee; you’re up for a crazy ride as we explore some of the best things to do in Waitsfield, VT.
Waitsfield is a very small town in Washington County in Vermont in the New England region of the United States. Despite its size (with less than two thousand people according to the 2020 census), it is a charming and vibrant town surrounded by breathtaking natural beauty.
As you may already be able to tell (upon hearing ‘vibrant’ and ‘natural beauty’), there are quite some things to do here, from enjoying delicious farm-to-table delights to exploring the town’s well-preserved architecture and taking in its history.
So, without further ado, let’s dive head first into the adventure that awaits us in the snuggly and quaint gem that Vermont’s offering us on a platter.
Top 20 Fun and Unique Things to Do in Waitsfield, VT
1. Explore the wonderful Artworks at the Artisan Gallery.
One of the top sights in Waitsfield for art enthusiasts is this captivating gallery that showcases a diverse collection of fine art and handcrafted creations, all created by talented local artists.
How about immersing yourself in the world of creativity, soaking all the beauty of Vermont’s artistic soul? From landscapes that transport you to the rolling hills of the Green Mountains to intricate pottery that exudes craftsmanship, every artwork tells a story of passion and dedication.
2. Enjoy the Snow Mad River Glen Ski Area.
Mad River Glen is less than 20 minutes from town, offering an entertaining experience for snow sports enthusiasts.
Imagine gliding and sliding through vast snow while taking in the stunning view of the Mad River Valley, with professionals present to show you the ropes and teach you a trick or two. Of course, you have to try the single chair lift, and if you’re with company, a classic snowball fight.
3. Visit Mad River Glass Gallery.
Exploring Mad River Glass Gallery remains one of my favorite things to do in Waitsfield, especially because it is technically still within the borders of Waitsfield, located right on Bridge Street.
One of the highlights here for me is the mesmerizing play of light and color in each unique piece. It allows you to immerse yourself in the world of glass art so much that you can almost taste it.
4. Catch a Movie at The Big Picture Theatre and Cafe.
There is a reason why ‘dinner and a movie’ is a very famous first date option. You can’t go wrong with a good dinner and a nice movie, and no other place in Waitsfield does it better than The Big Picture Theatre and Cafe.
The fact that you can sit at a table and eat a meal inside the theater should be proof enough.
5. Go fishing at Mad River.
Though I said go fishing, you can do it all, from Kayaking to boating to swimming to just sitting by the banks and enjoying the scenic view. Mad River is one of the top sights in Waitsfield, and honestly, the beauty and serenity of this place can’t be adequately contained in words.
6. Put on your farm hat and explore The Skinner Barn.
Don’t worry; you won’t be doing any farm work. The Skinner Barn is more of a historical museum than an actual barn.
It is a restored historic dairy barn that offers the best place to host your events. Of course, you can keep an eye peeled for any theatre production or dance performances that may be hosted there.
7. Put on another farm hat and explore The Round Barn Farm.
Now, here you might actually do some farm work. Well, not really, but the grounds include five ponds, flower gardens, fields, meadows, and woods.
You also get over 45 acres for hiking and exploring the organic garden that actually produces quality organic foods. It’s one of the more exciting things to do in Waitsfield. It functions as an Inn, too.
8. Explore the Madsonian Museum of Industrial Design.
One of the best things to do in Waitsfield is to take in the creativity and uniqueness that this museum celebrates.
From iconic mid-century furniture pieces to vintage appliances that revolutionized households, the museum transports you through time, illustrating the evolution of design and its impact on our society.
9. Visit the Waitsfield Farmers’ Market.
Delve into the heart of local culture and flavors at the Waitsfield Farmers’ Market. This spirited gathering offers a diverse array of fresh produce, handmade crafts, and live music. You also get to savor the taste of Vermont’s finest cheese, maple syrup, and artisanal goods while engaging with the friendly locals.
10. Go for a Scenic Drive along Vermont Route 100.
If you drove down here, or you don’t mind renting a car, you should embark on a spine-chillingly beautiful drive along Vermont Route 100. The road winds through the Mad River Valley and greets you with mesmerizing views of the surrounding mountains and the ever-changing landscape, from picturesque farmlands to thick, dense forests.
11. Enjoy delicious Pizza at American Flatbread.
You can’t explore a city without trying at least one of its famous pizza spots. Apart from their pizza, which is arguably the best in town, American Flatbread at Lareau Rd also offers an insanely good dining experience with their warm and inviting atmosphere pairing perfectly with the tantalizing flavors.
12. Explore Hartshorn Organic Farm.
Hartshorn is another place where you get to immerse yourself in the wonders of organic farming. Because of the area’s vast lands, exploring organic farms is one of the common things to do in Waitsfield.
Wander through rows of vibrant vegetables, breathe in the earthy scents of the soil, and gain a deeper appreciation for the art of sustainable farming.
13. Swim at Warren Falls.
Located just a few minutes outside town, Warren Falls is an exciting location to explore when in Waitsfield, VT. This swimming spot features cascading waterfalls and inviting pools to cool off on a hot day.
The highlight is the crystal-clear water that beckons you to take a chilling dip, and the falls are best enjoyed during the summer months when the water is at its most refreshing state.
14. Get more swimming at Lareau Swimming Hole.
Still on swimming, the swimming hole at Lareau Farm is one of the best Waitsdield Vermont attractions. It is a natural oasis (which makes it even more interesting) that offers a perfect spot to cool off during a hot afternoon.
Since they are both on Lareau Rd, you should probably swim before stuffing yourself with Pizza at American Flatbread.
15. Visit Waitsfield Covered Bridge.
While the bridge might not look like much, with a little imagination and creativity, it could easily offer some of the best things to do in Waitsfield. For instance, with the great view and the decent acoustic, you could take your guitar there and play some songs, using the river sounds as a backing track to your wonderful songs.
16. Visit Castlerock Pub.
Castlerock Pub is just a few minutes from town and is a great place to unwind and savor some chillingly good drinks. Of course, as a pub, they have a wide selection of craft beers and cocktails, but aside from that, you get the opportunity to mingle with locals and fellow travelers since it is quite a popular spot.
17. Get a drink at Lawsons Finers Liquids.
Enjoy a wonderful time savoring the taste of world-class IPAs, delightful maple brews, and various other widely loved beer, wine, cider, and non-alcoholic beverages.
While you’re there, explore the brewery and relax in the beautiful four-season beer garden, surrounded by the picturesque Mad River Valley.
18. Explore the exquisite art at Walker Contemporary.
This gallery showcases a curated selection of pieces from established and emerging artists, each offering a unique perspective and narrative that captivates the imagination. It is put together by only Stephanie Walker, a contemporary art dealer with over 18 years of experience.
From the selections, you can tell her deep commitment to advancing outstanding contemporary art. It is a must-visit for those interested in stellar artwork.
19. Visit Hyde Away Restaurant.
While I’m tempted to do a word pun with “hideaway” (like ‘this restaurant shouldn’t hide away’), I won’t. But besides word puns, the eatery is not just a place to enjoy a meal; it’s an experience that captures the essence of Vermont’s culinary traditions and local flavors.
They take great pride in using the freshest local ingredients, crafting their own ginger beer and mason jar cocktails.
20. Explore Moss Glen Falls.
Though Moss Glen Falls is too far to be considered part of Waitsfield, it is a wonderful town to explore on your wait out. It’s still in Vermont, and it offers a hauntingly beautiful waterfall surrounded by lush greenery that feels like a perfect way to seal your charming Waitsfield experience.
Conclusion.
From its majestic mountains to its green, thick forests to the pristine Mad River flowing through its heart, it is a haven for nature lovers seeking tranquility and a chance to connect with nature on a deeper level than just going to the beach. (Speaking of beaches, check out the most beautiful beaches in Fortazela)
Waitsfield boasts a perfect blend of old-world charm, modern amenities, warm community spirit (which is expected from a town this small), and an artistic atmosphere. It makes it an ideal destination for travelers of all kinds, from nature lovers to adventure heads to art enthusiasts to people just seeking company.
Waitsfield promises a captivating experience for travelers seeking a touch of mystery and magic. Whether you embark on an outdoor adventure, savor delicious local flavors, or immerse yourself in the vibrant arts and culture, you’re sure to have a wonderful time.
