Looking for a peaceful village surrounded by the Green Mountains? Head to Arlington! Nestled in southwestern Vermont between Manchester and Bennington, Arlington is known for its pastoral beauty, Norman Rockwell heritage, and outdoor recreation. Whether you're leaf-peeping, fly fishing, or enjoying maple syrup on a country porch, Arlington delivers authentic Vermont charm.
Arlington, VT Highlights:
- For Families: Visit the Norman Rockwell Exhibition – See where the artist lived and view illustrations, photos, and artifacts celebrating small-town America.
- For Outdoor Enthusiasts: Hike the Red Mountain Trail – A moderately challenging trail with panoramic views of the Battenkill River Valley.
- For Kids: Splash and picnic at the Battenkill River – Shallow swimming holes and riverside parks are perfect for family fun on warm days.
- For an Adventure: Fly fish the Battenkill – This legendary trout stream draws anglers from across the country with its crystal-clear waters.
- For Shoppers: Browse local general stores and art galleries – Arlington is home to charming shops selling crafts, pottery, and Vermont-made goods.
Best Time to Visit Arlington, VT
The best time to visit Arlington is during the fall foliage season (late September to mid-October) when the hills explode with color. Summer is also beautiful for river activities and hiking, while winter offers a quiet escape with nearby skiing and cozy inns.
How to Get to Arlington, VT
- By Car: Arlington is located on VT Route 7A, about 15 minutes south of Manchester and 25 minutes north of Bennington.
- By Train: Amtrak stations are available in nearby Albany, NY, or Rutland, VT, followed by a rental car for scenic drives.
- By Air: Albany International Airport (ALB) is the closest major airport, about 1.5 hours away by car.
Where to Stay in Arlington, VT
- West Mountain Inn – A historic hilltop inn with beautiful gardens, hiking trails, and sweeping valley views.
- The Arlington Inn – Elegant 19th-century B&B with period décor, fireplaces, and a gourmet breakfast.
- Hill Farm Inn – Upscale country retreat just outside town offering modern comforts and pastoral serenity.
Best Things to Do in Arlington, VT
⮕ Savor Sweet Treats at the Sugar Shack
The Sugar Shack makes pure Vermont maple syrup right on site in its sugar house and offers samples to visitors every day in the store. The shop also offers a wide array of Vermont food products available for purchase, ranging from fudge and cheese to mustards and jams to homemade cider donuts and maple frosted cookies. The Sugar Shack is also home to a Norman Rockwell Exhibition, which features a gift shop, a fifteen-minute film, and hundreds of examples of works created by Norman Rockwell. Owned and operated by the Hawley family, the Sugar Shack has more than ninety years of experience.
Sugar Shack Ln, Rt. 7A, Arlington, VT 05250, Phone: 802-375-6747
⮕ Drive to the Summit of Mount Equinox for Epic Views
Mount Equinox is located just outside of Arlington, Vermont in Bennington County. Situated in Manchester, Vermont, the mountain with a total elevation of more than two thousand feet, is the highest peak within the area’s Taconic Range, as well as the highest point anywhere in the county. Mount Equinox is also the second highest peak within the southern Vermont region and of the state’s thirteen peaks with topographic prominence of more than two thousand feet, ranking third. The mountain can be visited by way of the Skyline Drive. There is also a viewing center and gift shop.
1A St Bruno Dr, Arlington, VT 05250
⮕ Cast a Line or Paddle the Scenic Batten Kill River
The Batten Kill River is a natural flowing river that meanders its way from the area headwaters of Manchester, Vermont to the Hudson River convergence located in Greenwich, New York. Affected primarily by rain, or a lack thereof, Batten Kill River provides opportunities for a wide array of experiences for both locals and visitors alike. The river is teeming with a variety of wildlife as well, such as osprey, eagles, heron, songbirds, mink, deer, and trout. The Batten Kill River provides some great fishing, as well as simply a relaxing float down the water during the warm summer weather.
Activities and Attractions for Couples and Singles:
⮕ Snap a Classic New England Photo at Arlington Green Covered Bridge
The Arlington Green Covered Bridge can be found off of Vermont Route 313. The lattice truss covered bridge takes the town’s Covered Bridge Road over the Batten Kill River. Constructed back in the year 1852, the historic Arlington Green Covered Bridge was added in 1973 to the National Register of Historic Places, and is one of the oldest surviving bridges of its kind in the state of Vermont. Five square small openings can be seen on both sides of the bridge. The bridge is also known for not having any twentieth-century strengthening elements that have been added to other older bridges in Vermont.
Covered Bridge Rd, Arlington, VT 05250
⮕ If You Love Artisan Gifts and Chocolate, Visit The Village Peddler
The Village Peddler and Chocolatorium provides some of the state’s most mouth-watering chocolates, buttercrunch, truffles, and fudge made fresh in the candy kitchen. Formerly a wagon shed, the historic East Arlington building is now home to a variety of Vermont specialty foods, including maple candy and maple syrup, Vermont cheddar cheese, sugar-free candies, hone, and homemade jelly and preserves. The Village Peddler is also home to the largest chocolate teddy bear in the world, as well as regularly scheduled chocolate demonstrations and tasting at the Chocolatorium, during which guests can learn about how the chocolate is made and where it’s from.
261 Old Mill Rd, Arlington, VT 05250, Phone: 802-375-6037
Where to Eat in Arlington, VT
- Arlington Dairy Bar – A seasonal favorite for burgers, soft serve, and roadside charm.
- Jonathon’s Table – Cozy and casual restaurant offering homestyle Vermont comfort food and local beers.
- East Arlington Takeout – Grab sandwiches, pizza, and daily specials perfect for picnics or riverside dining.
If you are interested in local events:
- Maple Season Open Houses (March) – Visit local sugarhouses to learn about syrup making and sample fresh maple treats.
- Fall Harvest Festivals (September–October) – Enjoy pumpkin patches, hayrides, and local crafts in nearby communities.
- Norman’s Attic Craft Fair (August) – One of the region’s best small-town craft markets with food, art, and antiques.
If you are looking for unique day trips within 30–60 Minutes of Arlington, VT:
- Manchester (15–20 min) – Visit Hildene (Lincoln’s son’s estate), shop at outlet stores, or hike Equinox Preserve.
- Bennington (25–30 min) – Tour the Bennington Battle Monument, museums, and vibrant local art scene.
- Stratton Mountain Resort (45–50 min) – Ski in winter or take the gondola up the mountain for summer views.
- Dorset (30 min) – Enjoy a small village vibe with marble quarries, inns, and country stores.
- Chester or Weston (60 min) – Explore quintessential Vermont towns with old-time charm and Vermont Country Store shopping.
Frequently Asked Questions:
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What attractions does Arlington, Vermont offer?
- Delicious restaurants, historic attractions, thrilling outdoor adventures, and fresh mountain air are just a few of the things that Arlington, Vermont has to offer both visitors and local residents alike.
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Where is Arlington, Vermont located?
- Located in the southwestern region of the state, Arlington is nestled within the valley between the Green Mountains and the Taconic Mountains.
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What is special about the Batten Kill River?
- The town of Arlington sits along the Batten Kill River, which is well known for its excellent trout fishing.
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What other activities and products is Arlington known for?
- The town is abundant in Vermont specialty food products and offers numerous outdoor activities along the river and in the surrounding mountains.
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