Middlebury, Vermont

It's safe to say that Middlebury the town and Middlebury the college have been close entities almost from the beginning: the college was founded in 1800, just 13 years after the town was settled. And Middlebury College adds a lot to the cultural flavor of the town in numerous ways, including the Middlebury College Museum of Art, Henry Sheldon Museum of Vermont History and the Vermont Folklife Center. It also plays host to the world-renowned Bread Loaf Writer's Conference, held on the campus each summer.

But the town is more than just the college. The Vermont State Craft Center at Frog Hollow is located here, as are any number of fine shopping experiences that now populate the old mills, marbleworks and warehouses grouped along the Otter Creek falls (Middlebury was originally the site of some of Vermont's first marble quarries). Visitors should also make a point to check out the 1809 Congregational Church, which features a 136-foot spire.

Lodging:

The Blue Spruce Motel - We think a pleasant stay is the result of putting a lot of effort into details...things like keeping the property clean, comfortable and up-to-date, keeping our people friendly and well-trained and keeping the free morning coffee hot and fresh.

Fairhill Bed & Breakfast - Fairhill, located on a quiet country road 4 miles (10 minutes) from Middlebury, is a tastefully restored 1825 Vermont farmhouse.

The Greystone Motel - Minutes from downtown Middlebury. 10 modern units. Quiet family atmosphere. Reasonable rates.

Inn on the Green - Sitting proudly on the beautiful Town Green, The Inn on the Green is one of Middlebury's designated Historic Landmark buildings and has been placed on the National Register of Historic Places.

Middlebury Bed and Breakfast - The Inn offers four comfortable rooms with queen size beds and a full continental breakfast served every morning.

Middlebury Inn - There are 75 recently redecorated rooms and suites in 4 buildings from which to choose. Each area has its own charm, combining traditions of the past with present-day amenities.

Swift House Inn - The Swift House Inn is comprised of three buildings. The Main House, built in 1814 by Samuel Swift, was the home of former Governor John W. Stewart and his daughter Jessica Stewart Swift. The Victorian Gate House, built in 1906, graces the entrance to Stewart Lane. The Carriage House, built in 1886, to house the horses and carriages, was renovated in 1990 as luxury accommodations.

Waybury Inn - The Waybury is on the National Register of Historic Places, was used in the filming of the Bob Newhart show and was a favorite dinner spot for Robert Frost.

Restaurants:

Middlebury Inn - Our Candlelight Buffet includes our soup and salad bar, bread table, and choice of our homemade soups.

See also:

• Southern Champlain Valley