Family Friendly Vermont Historical Site Guide
For a small state, Vermont is rich in historical significance. While a true history buff could spend weeks visiting our state's historical sites, we history dabblers have truly enjoyed the following. Many sites are open seasonally please consult the individual websites.
The Carving Studio & Sculpture Center
Located right here in West Rutland is a hidden treasure that provides world-class sculptural education and hands-on learning for artists of all ages, rooted in Vermont’s historic quarry landscape. Even if you are not taking a class, be sure to visit the Carving Studio and walk around the grounds.
West Rutland, Vermont
President Calvin Coolidge Estate
Vermont is the birthplace and boyhood home of Calvin Coolidge, the 30th President of the United States. The Village is virtually unchanged since the early 20th century. The homes of Calvin Coolidge's family and neighbors, the community church, cheese factory, one room schoolhouse, and general store have been carefully preserved, and many of the buildings have their original furnishings.
Plymouth, Vermont
On the steamy morning of July 7, 1777, the Green Mountain Boys and others stayed behind as a rear guard to slow the advance of the Redcoats so the main American force would have time to retreat. On these green hills, the Americans made a defiant stand. Though outnumbered, the Americans successfully halted the British, and retreated southward, winning successful battles later that year at Bennington and Saratoga.
Hubbardton, Vermont
A National Historic Landmark, is one of the largest and most well preserved Revolutionary War archaeological sites in America. An exceptional museum houses an exhibit using artifacts and modern technology to chronicle the story of this major defense.
Orwell, Vermont
Regarded as one of the finest outdoor history museums in the country, Billings Farm combines a fully-operating Jersey dairy farm with educational exhibits and interactive programs and events, Billings Farm & Museum is committed to providing education and enjoyment to visitors of all ages.
Woodstock, Vermont
Vermont Institute of Natural Science
VINS' mission is to motivate individuals and communities to care for the environment through education, research, and avian wildlife rehabilitation. Exhibits include Raptors, Songbird Aviary, Nature Trails, Canopy Walk and daily programming.
Woodstock, Vermont
Hildene The Lincoln Family Home
Robert Todd Lincoln, the only child of Abraham and Mary Todd Lincoln to survive to adulthood, became Chairman of the Pullman Company, the largest manufacturing corporation at the turn of the 20th century. He built his Georgian Revival mansion in 1905 in the scenic village of Manchester. It became home to only Lincoln descendants until 1975, longer than any other Lincoln residence.
Manchester, Vermont
Although not located in Vermont, Fort Ticonderoga was important to both Vermont and American history. Relive the defining moments in America’s history when nations fought to control a continent. Located within the shadow of the Adirondack Mountains and overlooking Vermont’s picturesque Green Mountains, Fort Ticonderoga guards the historic portage between Lake Champlain and Lake George. The French and their native allies failed to conquer this region during the French & Indian War. And a generation later, the British failed during the Revolutionary War. In the end, Americans controlled Lake Champlain, and therefore controlled the continent. Consider taking the Fort Ti Ferry across Lake Champlain.
*Parts of Fort Ti are dog friendly. Check beforehand if considering bringing your dog(s).
Ticonderoga, New York
Regarded as one of the finest outdoor history museums in the country, Billings Farm combines a fully-operating Jersey dairy farm with educational exhibits and interactive programs and events, Billings Farm & Museum is committed to providing education and enjoyment to visitors of all ages.
Woodstock, Vermont
Located on a beautiful campus on Lake Champlain, is the largest art and history museum in northern New England and a foremost public resource for visual art and material culture.
Shelburne, Vermont