Orange County, Vermont Travel Guide

Discover the rustic charm and natural beauty of Orange County, Vermont, where historic towns meet lush landscapes, offering a perfect blend of relaxation and adventure.

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Orange County

Nestled in the heart of Vermont, Orange County offers a tranquil escape from the bustling city life. Known for its stunning landscapes, this picturesque region boasts rolling hills, dense forests, and serene waterways. Whether you're an outdoor enthusiast or someone looking to unwind, Orange County has something for everyone. Explore the quaint towns dotted across the county, each with its own unique charm. Visit Chelsea, the county seat, with its historic buildings and friendly locals. Wander through local farmers' markets and discover fresh produce, artisanal cheeses, and handcrafted goods. Don't miss the chance to visit the Tunbridge Fair, one of the oldest agricultural fairs in the United States, held every September. For nature lovers, the county offers numerous hiking and biking trails. The Cross Vermont Trail provides a scenic route through lush forests and along sparkling streams. If you're visiting in the fall, the vibrant foliage creates a breathtaking backdrop for your outdoor adventures. In the winter, the landscape transforms into a snowy wonderland, perfect for cross-country skiing and snowshoeing. Orange County is also home to several historic sites and museums that offer a glimpse into Vermont's rich history. The Old Constitution House in Windsor, where the state's constitution was adopted, and the Justin Smith Morrill Homestead in Strafford are must-visit landmarks. These sites, along with others, provide fascinating insights into the region's past. Whether you're exploring the great outdoors, delving into history, or simply soaking in the serene ambiance, Orange County, Vermont, promises an unforgettable experience.

From Eve

Know before you go

Hi, I'm Eve. Here are a few practical things to know before exploring Orange County.

Visit in the fall for stunning foliage and autumn festivals.
Check out the local farmers' markets for fresh produce and unique local crafts.
Bring comfortable shoes for hiking and exploring the numerous trails.
Stop by the Tunbridge Fair in September for a taste of local culture.
Plan a visit to historic sites like the Old Constitution House and Justin Smith Morrill Homestead.

Top City Travel Guides in Orange County

The cities of Orange County, and the easiest places to base yourself.

Woodstock

Montpelier

Destinations in Orange County

Resorts, valleys and scenic spots worth a trip of their own.

Sugarbush Resort

Quechee Gorge

Molly Falls State Park

Explore Orange County: Things to Do, Places to Eat, Hotels & More

Handpicked recommendations for top attractions, local dining, accommodations, and more

Top Attractions & Sightseeing in Orange County

Top-rated picks

Best Attractions

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All Attractions

Flume Gorge

Experience the breathtaking beauty of Flume Gorge in New Hampshire's White Mountains, a stunning natural park perfect for adventure and relaxation.

4.8

Ausable Chasm

Discover the breathtaking Ausable Chasm, a stunning natural gorge in New York offering thrilling adventures and serene landscapes for every traveler.

4.5

Smugglers' Notch Resort

Experience the ultimate year-round adventure at Smugglers' Notch Resort, a premier family-friendly destination in Vermont's stunning Green Mountains.

4.5

Idletyme

Explore Idletyme Brewing in Stowe, Vermont for craft beer, delicious American dishes, and a welcoming atmosphere amidst stunning mountain views.

4.7

Best landmarks in Orange County

Top-rated picks

Best Landmarks

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All Landmarks

Ausable Chasm

Discover the breathtaking beauty and thrilling adventures of Ausable Chasm, the Grand Canyon of the East, perfect for outdoor enthusiasts and nature lovers.

4.5

Idletyme

Discover the best of Vermont's craft beer and American cuisine at Idletyme Brewing Company in Stowe, where every meal is a celebration of local flavors.

4.7

Fort Knox and Penobscot Narrows Observatory

Uncover history and enjoy breathtaking views at Fort Knox and Penobscot Narrows Observatory, a must-visit landmark in Maine.

4.8

Trapp Family Lodge

Experience the unique blend of Austrian heritage and stunning natural beauty at the Trapp Family Lodge in Stowe, Vermont.

4.5

Best restaurants in Orange County

Top-rated picks

Best Restaurants

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All Restaurants

Idletyme

Discover Idletyme Brewing: A premier brewery in Stowe offering exceptional craft beers and delicious American cuisine amidst stunning mountain views.

4.7

Farmhouse Tap & Grill (Vermont)

Experience the flavors of Vermont at Farmhouse Tap & Grill—where local ingredients meet craft brews in a cozy setting.

4.3

Simon Pearce

Discover exquisite American cuisine paired with handcrafted glass art at Simon Pearce in Quechee, Vermont.

4.6

The Bench

Experience delightful American cuisine and vibrant nightlife at The Bench in Stowe – your culinary haven amidst stunning mountain views.

4.4

Best bars in Orange County

Top-rated picks

Best Bars

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All Bars

Simon Pearce

Discover a unique blend of fine dining and exquisite glass artistry at Simon Pearce in Quechee, Vermont, where culinary excellence meets craftsmanship.

4.6

Worthy Burger

Discover Worthy Burger in South Royalton: a delightful fusion of local ingredients and creative burger creations, all served in a cozy atmosphere.

4.7

Ladder 1 Grill

Experience the best of traditional American cuisine at Ladder 1 Grill in Barre, Vermont, where comfort food meets local flavors.

4.3

Cornerstone Pub & Kitchen

Experience Vermont's culinary charm at Cornerstone Pub & Kitchen, where delicious food meets an extensive selection of craft beverages.

4.5

Best nightclubs in Orange County

Top-rated picks

Best Nightclubs

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All Nightclubs

Simon Pearce

Experience the culinary artistry of Simon Pearce, where American cuisine meets handcrafted glass and pottery in the heart of Quechee, Vermont.

4.6

Red Square

Discover the heart of Burlington's nightlife at Red Square, a lively bar and nightclub offering live music, great drinks, and an unforgettable atmosphere.

3.9

Charlie O's

Experience Montpelier's vibrant live music scene at Charlie O's, where local talent and a welcoming atmosphere create unforgettable nights out.

4.2

Babes Bar

Unwind at Babes Bar in Bethel, Vermont – where lively events meet great drinks in a welcoming atmosphere.

4.9

Best shops in Orange County

Top-rated picks

Best Shops

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All Shops

Quechee Gorge Village

Explore unique shops and local delights at Quechee Gorge Village, where Vermont's natural beauty meets charming shopping experiences.

4.6

Hogback Mountain Country Store

Explore the charm of Hogback Mountain Country Store - a unique gift shop offering local treasures and breathtaking views in Marlboro, Vermont.

4.7

Farm-Way Inc / Vermont Gear

Explore Vermont Gear for the best in outdoor clothing, equipment, and unique local treasures in the heart of beautiful Bradford, Vermont.

4.7

Vermont Antique Mall

Explore Vermont Antique Mall: A treasure trove of vintage finds and timeless antiques in the heart of Quechee, Vermont.

4.6

Explore Orange County on the Map

A handpicked selection of must-see spots in Orange County, mapped for you.

Orange County Essentials

Orange County, Vermont is accessible by car, bus, and train. The nearest major airports are Burlington International Airport (BTV) in Burlington, VT, and Manchester-Boston Regional Airport (MHT) in Manchester, NH. From these airports, it is possible to rent a car or use shuttle services to reach Orange County. Greyhound and Megabus offer bus services that connect to nearby towns, and Amtrak provides train services to the Montpelier Station, which is a short drive from Orange County.
For getting around Orange County, renting a car is the most convenient option as it allows for flexibility in exploring the rural landscapes and small towns. Local taxi services are available, though they may need to be arranged in advance. Biking is a popular mode of transportation, especially during the warmer months, and many roads have bike lanes. Public transport is limited, but there are regional bus services that connect the main towns.
The official currency in Orange County, Vermont is the United States Dollar (USD). Credit and debit cards are widely accepted in most establishments, including hotels, restaurants, and shops. However, it is advisable to carry some cash, especially when visiting smaller towns and rural areas where card facilities might be limited. ATMs are available in the larger towns such as Chelsea and Randolph.
Orange County is generally a safe place for tourists. Crime rates are low, but it is still important to exercise standard precautions such as locking your car and being aware of your surroundings. There are no specific areas with high crime rates targeting tourists. As with any travel destination, avoid walking alone at night in unfamiliar areas and keep an eye on your belongings.
In case of emergency, dial 911 for police, fire, or medical assistance. Orange County has several medical facilities, including Gifford Medical Center in Randolph. It is advisable to have travel insurance that covers medical emergencies. Pharmacies are available in the larger towns, offering over-the-counter medications. Familiarize yourself with the location of the nearest hospital or clinic to your accommodation.
Fashion: Do dress in comfortable and weather-appropriate clothing. Layers are recommended due to variable weather. Avoid overly casual attire when dining in more upscale establishments. Religion: Do respect local customs and traditions. If visiting churches, dress modestly. Public Transport: Do be courteous to drivers and fellow passengers. Don't play loud music or talk loudly on your phone. Greetings: Do greet people with a smile or a friendly 'hello'. Handshakes are common. Eating & Drinking: Do try local foods and beverages. Accepting hospitality graciously is appreciated. Don't leave large tips in restaurants; around 15-20% is standard.
To experience Orange County like a local, visit the local farmers' markets where you can purchase fresh, organic produce and homemade goods. Engage with the locals; Vermonters are known for their friendliness and are often willing to share stories about their town's history and culture. Take part in seasonal activities such as apple picking in the fall or maple sugaring in the spring. Hiking trails and scenic byways offer beautiful views and a chance to enjoy the natural surroundings.

When is the best time to visit Orange County?

With Eve

Useful Local Phrases for Orange County

You don't need to speak the language perfectly. Even learning a few simple words can make conversations warmer—and locals usually appreciate the effort.

— Eve

6 phrase groups English + pronunciation

Here are the phrases I use most often in Orange County. Try a few—you'll be surprised how far they go! 😊
❤️

- HelloHey there
  [Hey thair]
- GoodbyeSee ya
  [See yah]
- YesYup
  [Yup]
- NoNah
  [Nah]
- Please/You're welcomeSure thing
  [Shur thing]
- Thank youThanks a lot
  [Thangs a lot]
- Excuse me/SorryOops, sorry
  [Oops, sorree]
- How are you?How's it goin'?
  [How's it goin'?]
- Fine. And you?I'm good. You?
  [I'm good. You?]
- Do you speak English?Ya speak English?
  [Ya speak English?]
- I don't understandI don't get it
  [I don't git it]
- I'd like to see the menu, pleaseCan I see the menu, please?
  [Can I see tha menu, pleez?]
- I don't eat meatI’m a vegetarian
  [I’m a vege-tarian]
- Cheers!Cheers!
  [Cheers!]
- I would like to pay, pleaseCan I get the check, please?
  [Can I get tha check, pleez?]
- Help!Help!
  [Help!]
- Go away!Leave me alone!
  [Leave me alone!]
- Call the Police!Call the cops!
  [Call tha cops!]
- Call a doctor!Get a doctor!
  [Get a doctor!]
- I'm lostI’m lost
  [I’m lost]
- I'm illI'm not feeling well
  [I'm not feelin' well]
- I'd like to buy...I wanna buy...
  [I wanna buy...]
- I'm just lookingJust browsing, thanks
  [Just browsin', thangs]
- How much is it?What's the price?
  [What's tha price?]
- That's too expensiveThat's a bit pricey
  [That's a bit pricy]
- Can you lower the price?Can ya knock down the price?
  [Can ya knock down tha price?]
- What time is it?What time is it?
  [What time is it?]
- It's one o'clockIt's one o'clock
  [It's one o'clock]
- Half past (10)Half past ten
  [Half past ten]
- MorningMorning
  [Mornin']
- AfternoonAfternoon
  [Afternoon]
- EveningEvening
  [Evenin']
- YesterdayYesterday
  [Yesturday]
- TodayToday
  [Today]
- TomorrowTomorrow
  [Tommorow]
- 1One
  [One]
- 2Two
  [Two]
- 3Three
  [Three]
- 4Four
  [Four]
- 5Five
  [Five]
- 6Six
  [Six]
- 7Seven
  [Seven]
- 8Eight
  [Eight]
- 9Nine
  [Nine]
- 10Ten
  [Ten]
- Where's a/the...?Where's the nearest...?
  [Where's tha nearest...?]
- What's the address?What's the address?
  [What's tha address?]
- Can you show me (on the map)?Can ya point it out on the map?
  [Can ya point it out on tha map?]
- When's the next (bus)?When's the next bus?
  [When's tha next bus?]
- A ticket (to ....)A ticket to...
  [A ticket to...]

History of Orange County

Orange County was first settled in the mid-18th century during the period of colonial expansion. The area was initially home to Native American tribes, specifically the Abenaki people, who utilized the land for hunting and fishing. European settlers began to arrive in the 1760s, driven by the promise of fertile land and abundant resources.
Orange County played an active role during the American Revolutionary War. Many of its early settlers participated in local militias and contributed to the Patriot cause. The town of Newbury, in particular, was a notable center for revolutionary activity and served as a supply depot for colonial troops.
Randolph, one of the central towns in Orange County, was chartered in 1781. It quickly grew into a bustling community thanks to its strategic location along the stagecoach routes. The town became a hub for agriculture, trade, and education, contributing significantly to the county's development.
The Industrial Revolution brought significant changes to Orange County. The construction of railroads in the 19th century facilitated the movement of goods and people, spurring economic growth. Towns like Bradford and Randolph saw the establishment of mills, factories, and other industries, transforming the local economy.
During the Civil War, residents of Orange County were deeply involved, with many enlisting in the Union Army. The county's communities provided substantial support to the war effort through the production of supplies and other contributions. Monuments and memorials in several towns commemorate the bravery and sacrifices of local soldiers.
Agriculture has always been at the heart of Orange County's identity. From dairy farming to maple syrup production, the county's rich agricultural traditions are celebrated through various festivals and events. The Vermont Dairy Festival held in Randolph is a prime example of the county's dedication to preserving its farming heritage.
Orange County is home to numerous cultural landmarks that reflect its rich history. The Old Constitution House in Windsor, where Vermont's constitution was drafted, and the historic buildings in Chelsea and Tunbridge offer a glimpse into the county's past. The annual Tunbridge World's Fair, established in 1867, continues to be a significant cultural event, drawing visitors from all over New England.
Today, Orange County is a blend of historical charm and modern vitality. Its towns and villages maintain a strong sense of community and continue to celebrate their unique heritage. With a growing emphasis on sustainable living and eco-tourism, the county attracts visitors looking to experience its natural beauty and historical depth.