Travel Guide to Brattleboro and its 5 Best Attractions

Brattleboro is a quaint town in Vermont that is predominantly an arts and culture destination, known for its many galleries, museums, antique shops and the quirky artsy folk that go along with such venues. There are also a number of local farms, many with petting zoos, as well as outdoor opportunities such as hiking and biking. Brattleboro has that classic country vibe that is often associated with New England, and its restaurants serve great local food too, which makes it an excellent place to visit. To reach Brattleboro it takes an hour and 20 minutes from Hartford, an hour and 50 minutes from Albany and two hours from Boston, which means that it can be easily visited for a quick weekend getaway.

The Brattleboro Museum and Art Center inspires, educates and engages

Photo by Heidi Thibodeau via Flickr.

The mission of this independent museum is to present art and ideas that inspire, educate and engage people of all ages. Housed within an old train station, with the ticket windows still intact, the museum is certainly unique. Exhibits showcase regional artists, guests curators, local art and international art icons.

Take the kids to pet some farm animals at Retreat Farm

Photo by Jon Lauden via Flickr.

Retreat Farm is a historical site and recreation center set on 475 acres of land. Its petting farm is a huge hit with families visiting Brattleboro, but it is seasonal. Otherwise, the farm is fully functioning and offers as much to the local community as it does to the visitors who come to see it as an attraction. Hiking from one of the five trailheads that begin at the farm is also popular.

Twice Upon a Time sells antiques and more

Photo by Kayin via Flickr.

Antiquing fans will love this place, which is the largest antique/collectibles/consignment shop and dealer mall in southern Vermont. Housed within a historic building, there are all sorts of great buys just waiting to be found, and it’s open seven days a week.

T.J. Buckley’s is a local favorite for a nice dinner

Photo via Little Apple to the Big Apple.

This restaurant is set up in a classic old diner car, which seems just perfect for the funky arts town of Brattleboro. The menu changes daily to reflect local and seasonal trends, and the restaurant has a fun and friendly atmosphere. The owners, however, make sure not to let that relaxed attitude affect the quality of the food, which gets rave reviews from local foodies. There’s something for everyone here, too, as there’s always at least one meat, poultry, fish and vegetarian option on the menu.

The Latchis Hotel offers accommodation in an art deco building

Photo by BEV Norton via Flickr.

The Latchis Hotel and Theatre offers an authentic art deco experience that’ll give you something to write home about. There are 30 uniquely decorated guest rooms, which although traditional in design, have all the modern conveniences one could ask for. The hotel also has wireless broadband internet throughout. Staying here, guests have easy access to a range of dining and shopping options in downtown Brattleboro.