Waterbury
Explore a foodie paradise that combines small-town charms with big-time flavor
With its old-fashioned exterior and population of just over 5,000, it’s easy to assume Waterbury is just another sleepy town. But don’t be fooled. Here, foodies will discover a culinary paradise, outdoors enthusiasts will explore an adrenalin-packed playground, and shoppers will uncover treasures and other great finds. Whether you’re visiting in the summer or fall, there’s fun to be had year round in this unique Vermont town.
In 1763, King George III of England granted a charter for land in the Winooski River Valley. Residents from Waterbury, Connecticut accepted the charter and named the area in honor of their hometown. The first permanent settler arrived 20 years later, and from there, industries like agriculture, lumber and leather started to take off. The flood in 1927 devastated the township and you’ll find some buildings have signs that show you just how high the floodwater was. In 2011, Tropical Storm Irene dumped 11 inches of rain and hit Waterbury hard. Today, the town has been restored to its former glory and locals are more than happy to show their historic home to you.
Great Flavors
The most popular thing to do in Waterbury is to take a tour of the Ben & Jerry’s ice cream factory. See how ice cream is made and get a scoop of your favorite flavor at their full-service ice cream parlor. Just a few miles from Ben & Jerry’s is the Cabot Creamery store. Here, you can indulge in a huge selection of Vermont artisanal cheeses. After, stop by the Lake Champlain chocolate store and café to satisfy your sweet tooth with chocolate truffles and hand-whipped fudge. Or, get your caffeine fix and learn how coffee is produced at the Green Mountain Coffee Visitor Center and Café. Waterbury is home to an exploding craft beer scene too, so make sure to grab a pint at popular eateries like The Prohibition Pig, The Bluestone, The Reservoir, and Blackback Pub.
The town is a haven for outdoor adventurers as peaks, valleys, and rivers surround it. In the winter, head to Stowe Mountain Resort, Sugarbush, Bolton Valley, or Mad River Glen to ski or snowboard endless powder slopes. When it gets warmer, hike up the two highest peaks in Green Mountain Forest, Camel’s Hump and Mount Mansfield, for a panoramic view of Vermont wilderness. The Waterbury Reservoir and Winooski River are other popular destinations and offer activities like swimming, canoeing, and fishing.
Every week from May to October, visitors can hunt for antiques and other treasures at the Waterbury Flea Market or shop for fresh produce, flowers, baked goods, and souvenirs at the farmers market. You’ll also find a variety of charming boutiques in Waterbury village including the Stowe Street Emporium, The Tiny Acorn, and Bridgeside Books.
For More Information
Discover Waterbury Vermont
Vermont Department of Tourism & Marketing
800-837-6668