Timeless Vermont: Antiques and Artisans from Woodstock to Windsor
About the Tour
Vermont’s blend of history, craftsmanship, and beauty is best experienced on a scenic drive through its most charming towns. On this driving tour, I’ll take you along picture-perfect roads, over historic covered bridges, and into the heart of the region’s artistic culture.
The tour begins at the Pizza Chef of Woodstock, in what’s often called one of the most beautiful small towns in America. You’ll set off towards Quechee, passing through Taftsville to see its striking red covered bridge, one of the most attractive in Vermont. From there, you’ll have a chance to browse a bounty of antiques, vintage finds, and fine art at Vermont Antique Mall and BF Southgate & Company.
You’ll follow a historic route to Windsor, affectionately known as the “Birthplace of Vermont", that parallels the Connecticut River. I’ll show you the Cornish-Windsor Covered Bridge, the longest wooden covered bridge in the United States, before you make your way back to Woodstock via West Windsor and South Woodstock’s beautiful farm and horse country.
Along the way, you’ll have a chance to:
- Marvel at Quechee Gorge, Vermont’s deepest, a breathtaking natural wonder referred to as “Vermont’s Little Grand Canyon“
- Enjoy driving through rolling hayfields alongside Ascutney Mountain West Windsor, Vermont
- Stop at Simon Pearce Glassblowing and watch skilled artisans handcraft elegant glassware and pottery, blending traditional techniques with contemporary designs
- Savor locally brewed craft beers, small-batch spirits, and delicious pub fare at Harpoon Brewery & Silo Distillery
- Wander through a peaceful outdoor sculpture park at the Path of Life Garden
- Stroll through Woodstock with its charming village green, historic architecture, and boutique shops
This tour is perfect for anyone looking to experience Vermont’s charm at their own pace, without stops it'll take you three hours. Whether you’re interested in searching for antiques, admiring artisan craftsmanship, or simply soaking in the breathtaking scenery, this tour offers a one-of-a-kind glimpse into Vermont’s history and creativity.
Tour Producer
Vermont Wayfinders
At Vermont Wayfinders, we’re passionate about sharing the beauty, charm, and hidden treasures of the Green Mountain State - whether you join us for a private guided tour or go on a self-guided tour!
We create unique, self-guided tours that invite you to explore Vermont at your own pace, whether you’re cruising along scenic country roads, discovering historic covered bridges, or browsing local shops where you can find unique Vermont treasures. We don’t just guide you from one destination to the next, we help you discover the magic of the journey itself.
For those who'd rather leave the driving to us, check out www.vermontwayfinders.com for more info on our guided tours.
Let us be your compass to Vermont’s most inspiring experiences. Where will we find our way together next?
Preview Location
Location 3
Approaching Taftsville Covered Bridge
Built in 1836, this historic bridge is one of the oldest in Vermont and one of only a few remaining covered bridges with the distinctive red clapboard exterior. It s... Read More
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Major Landmarks
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Woodstock
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Historic Taftsville Covered Bridge
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B.F. Southgate & Company
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Historic Quechee Covered Bridge
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Quechee Gorge
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Vermont Antique Mall
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Foley Brothers Beer Garden
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Quechee Gorge Village
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Simon Pearce
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Artisans Way
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Harpoon Brewery Taproom and Beer Garden
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SILO Distillery
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Great River Outfitters & the Path of Life Sculpture Garden
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Windsor
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Historic Cornish-Windsor Covered Bridge
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Brownsville Butcher & Pantry
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Best Covered Bridge
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Green Mountain Horse Association
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Vermont Horse Country Store
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Kedron Valley Inn
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Kedron Brook Bridge
Getting There
Route Overview
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Start location450 Woodstock Rd, Woodstock, VT 05091, USA -
Total distance84km -
Final locationThe Grn, Woodstock, VT 05091, USA -
Distance back to start location1km
Directions to Starting Point
This tour begins in the parking lot between the Woodstock Ace Home and Hardware store and the Woodstock Pizza Chef, where you're just beyond the center of Woodstock. If you head east on Route 4 from the center of Woodstock, it'll be on your right just past the Woodstock Fire Station.
Tips
Places to stop along the way
Make a reservation if you'd like to grab dinner after your tour in Woodstock -- restaurants are always busy year-round. Consider the Prince and the Pauper for a fine dining experience, or Richardson's Tavern at the Woodstock Inn for something more casual.
Best time of day
Ideally leave Woodstock between 9am and 10am. Please consider road conditions and don't take this tour if roads are icy or snowy.
Precautions
You'll have plenty of stops along the way to grab a bite to eat or something to drink but bringing along a snack and a bottle of water is always a good idea! There will be lots of options to get out and explore, so have good walking shoes on and dress in layers -- the weather often changes quite a bit over the course of the day.
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