Are you ready to experience Vermont’s famous country charm by spending some time in Rutland? Start by exiting out of James M. Jeffords Station and onto Merchant’s Row. This historic street dates back to the 1850s and many of the buildings still embrace the area’s rich, unrivaled history.
Grab breakfast at Speakeasy Café on Center Street. This quaint joint produces tons of amazing specialty lattes and according to local experts, their biscuits are to die for. The cozy and warm atmosphere are the perfect welcome to Rutland.
Art and Culture in Rutland
Next? It’s time to stroll through Downtown Rutland and check out the Rutland Murals from local and international artists. The art is truly awe-inspiring and a source of pride for the entire Rutland community. While you’re admiring these, keep an eye out for the marble sculptures that make up part of the Downtown Rutland Sculpture Trail. Key figures in Rutland’s history are featured in impressive detail to commemorate the area’s history. If this peek into Rutland’s history isn’t enough, pop into the Rutland Historical Society to comb through images from their collection dating back nearly 150 years.
The city’s display of art doesn’t stop at the murals and sculptures, however. Check out the Chaffe Art Center housed within an 1890’s Queen Anne Victorian mansion. The gallery features works from local artists and offers painting classes, auctions and many more activities.
Lunch in Rutland
Roots the Restaurant is a fantastic lunch place offering creative farm-to- table meals. Finding the best ways to feature locally produced and fresh ingredients is at the top of the list at Roots. For something more laid back, try Gill’s Delicatessen—a local favorite.
Fun Indoors and Outdoors
Walk off your lunch by exploring Pine Hill Park, a 300-acre, 16-mile, single-track trail system in the city. Spend the afternoon exploring these magical trails and taking in the natural beauty so readily abundant in Vermont.
But, if hiking’s not your thing, how about a little axe throwing? Fortress of Fun has that trendy activity as well as classic arcade games, bouncy houses and a guaranteed good time. Or you can also try Stonehenge Indoor Golf, the top venue for indoor simulated golf—it also provides a ton of fun but with less sharp objects!
Dining in Rutland
After your fun, grab a drink at Rutland Beer Works. They offer seven unique beers on tap aligned to the season. If you love their beer enough, try Hop N’ Moose for dinner because they have it on tap. Kick back and relax with Vermont’s best craft beer and some delicious, elevated pub food. Their wood-fired pizzas are a local delicacy.
Staying in Rutland
As bedtime approaches, why not check into the Hampton Inn Rutland for a budget-friendly, comfortable stay, complete with an indoor pool? Good night, fellow travelers.
Take Amtrak to Rutland
Explore this bountiful city via Amtrak to the Rutland Station—Don’t forget to use the Amtrak See New York and Save 15% discount!
Get picked up from the Rutland Station and taken to your reserved NYTRAIN Enterprise Rent-a-Car. Click here to reserve your car or call the Rutland office today at 802-773-0855.
