Top 5 Tourist Attractions in Waterbury, Vermont
Located in Washington County, Waterbury is an unincorporated town that was once a village. It was dissolved in 2017, but it is still listed as a census-designated place.
Colbyville
Located in the Green Mountains of Vermont, Waterbury is the state’s hub for Vermont’s most popular tourist attractions. It is also home to a large number of residential neighborhoods. This quaint settlement is located about 30 minutes from Burlington, the state capital. The city is also home to a number of historic structures.
Waterbury’s early economy was based on agriculture. It also relied on lumber. A number of industrial operations were established along the banks of Thatcher Brook, which provided power for several mills. In addition, the area was home to a number of Abenaki people, who were likely drawn to the area by the abundance of resources.
Green Mountain Coffee Roasters
Founded by entrepreneur Robert Stiller in Waterbury, Vermont in 1981, Green Mountain Coffee Roasters was a small specialty coffee shop. In its early days, the company sold coffee to the public, but later became a wholesale supplier. In 2006, the company added a Keurig division. This allowed the company to sell coffee as Keurig single-serving pods. The company has expanded internationally, and has offices in Canada and Turkey.
While the company originally operated a retail shop, Green Mountain Coffee Roasters closed all of its retail locations in 1998. In 2006, the company opened Green Mountain Coffee Cafe in Waterbury, Vermont. The cafe serves the company’s coffees, along with local treats. Guests can learn about the process of roasting coffee, and they can vote on new coffee creations.
The Stagecoach Inn
Located in Waterbury, Vermont, The Stagecoach Inn is a historic bed and breakfast inn. The inn is located near Waterbury Amtrak Station and offers a variety of activities. The inn has eight unique rooms, four suites, a kitchen, and a dining room. There is also an outdoor terrace. The inn offers free Wi-Fi and a complimentary full country breakfast.
The Stagecoach Inn is also home to a variety of ghosts. A former owner of the inn was a high-spirited millionaire named Nettie Spencer. She died in 1947 and was buried in the Hope Cemetery near the inn. The Spencer woman’s spirit is said to still haunt the inn. The spirit is said to be playful and enjoys spooking people.
Waterbury Center State Park
Located on a 90-acre peninsula, Waterbury Center State Park is a day use park on Waterbury Reservoir. The park features swimming, picnicking and water sports opportunities. It also has nature trails. Waterbury Center State Park is open from 10am to sunset daily. The park has a boat launch, restrooms, picnic areas and a concession area.
Waterbury Center State Park was added to the list of 52 Vermont state parks in 1985. Its management plan was developed in 2002. The park’s activities are overseen by the Vermont State Parks. Several trails are available around the lake, including a universally accessible trail. A brochure is available that describes the history of the park and Vermont’s natural environment.
Mad River Distillers
Located in Waitsfield and Warren, Vermont, Mad River Distillers produce three rums and two whiskies. Mad River’s signature product is their maple cask rum, which is finished in Vermont maple syrup barrels. It’s a sweet and spicy blend that pairs well with amaros.
Another product in their lineup is their Mad Apple Brandy, which is made from Vermont apples. They’ve also got two cocktail rums, including their First Run Rum. The First Run rum is aged in oak barrels and has a nice balance of caramel and oak flavors. It can be purchased throughout the state, as well as made at home.
They’ve also got a specialty grocery store called the Mad River Taste Place, which carries Vermont products. It’s a great way to educate yourself on Vermont products and get a tasty treat. They even sell their own maple syrup.
Ben and Jerry’s
Located in central Vermont, the Ben and Jerry’s plant is a must-see for ice cream lovers. It’s also one of Vermont’s top tourist attractions. The Ben & Jerry’s factory tour is an informative and fun way to learn about the company’s history and get a view of the ice cream manufacturing process.
Ben & Jerry’s was founded in 1978 in Burlington, Vermont by Jerry Greenfield and Ben Cohen. They met in a 7th grade gym class and took a $5 correspondence course on how to make ice cream.
In 1984, Ben Cohen and Jerry Greenfield sold stock to Vermonters, paying for their new ice cream factory. One in every 100 Vermont families owned shares.
