Vermont may be small in size, but it looms large in American history. From its fierce Revolutionary War battles and independent 18th-century constitution to the quiet rise of a U.S. president, the Green Mountain State has witnessed defining moments that shaped both state and nation. Known for its rugged mountains, pastoral towns, and civic-minded spirit, Vermont was the first state to outlaw slavery and one of the earliest to grant broad suffrage. Its history lives on through remarkably preserved buildings, battlegrounds, and cultural landmarks. These ten historic sites span centuries and stories, each one a reason to visit, reflect, and connect.
1. Bennington Battle Monument
The Bennington Battle Monument stands as Vermont’s tallest structure at 306 feet, commemorating the pivotal Battle of Bennington fought on August 16, 1777. This American victory significantly weakened British forces, contributing to their surrender at Saratoga.
Constructed from blue-gray magnesian limestone, the monument was completed in 1889 and dedicated in 1891. Visitors can ascend via elevator to the observation deck at 200 feet, offering panoramic views of Vermont, New York, and Massachusetts.
The surrounding grounds feature statues of notable figures like General John Stark and Colonel Seth Warner, honoring their contributions to the battle. An on-site gift shop provides educational exhibits and souvenirs related to the monument’s history.
2. President Calvin Coolidge State Historic Site
Nestled in the serene village of Plymouth Notch, the President Calvin Coolidge State Historic Site offers an authentic glimpse into the early life and legacy of America’s 30th president. The site encompasses several preserved structures, including Coolidge’s birthplace and the family homestead where he took the presidential oath of office in 1923.
You can explore the general store once operated by Coolidge’s father, the one-room schoolhouse he attended, and the Union Christian Church where his family worshiped. The Plymouth Cheese Factory, established by Coolidge’s father in 1890, continues to produce artisanal cheeses, offering tastings to guests.
The Museum and Education Center features the award-winning exhibit “More than Two Words: The Life and Legacy of Calvin Coolidge,” showcasing personal artifacts and interactive media that narrate his journey from a humble Vermont upbringing to the White House.
3. Chimney Point State Historic Site
Nestled on the eastern shore of Lake Champlain in Addison, Chimney Point State Historic Site offers a rich tapestry of history spanning over 9,000 years. This site has been a focal point for Native American, French Colonial, and early American cultures, each leaving their indelible mark.
The centerpiece is a circa 1785 tavern, meticulously preserved to transport visitors back in time. Inside, exhibits showcase artifacts from archaeological discoveries, illuminating the lives of the area’s early inhabitants. The “Crossing Paths” and “Point of Contact” exhibits delve into the interactions among these diverse cultures.
Beyond the tavern, the Chimney Point History Trail offers a leisurely walk with interpretive signs detailing significant historical events and findings, including remnants of the 1731 French fort and evidence of ancient Native American habitation.
The site’s proximity to the Lake Champlain Bridge provides stunning views and a tangible connection to neighboring Crown Point in New York, encouraging exploration of both historic sites.
4. Mount Independence State Historic Site
Mount Independence State Historic Site in Orwell offers a profound journey into America’s Revolutionary War history. Established in 1776, this fortification played a crucial role in defending New England from British advances.
Spanning over 300 acres, the site features well-preserved archaeological remnants, including breastworks, blockhouse sites, and the foundation of a massive 250-foot-long hospital. The on-site museum showcases artifacts recovered from the area, such as timbers from the original Great Bridge and a 3,000-pound cannon cast in 1690.
For outdoor enthusiasts, Mount Independence boasts six miles of hiking trails. The 1.6-mile Baldwin Trail is wheelchair-accessible and includes interpretive signage at 15 stops, detailing historical and archaeological features like soldiers’ huts and battery defenses.
5. Hubbardton Battlefield State Historic Site
On July 7, 1777, the serene hills of Hubbardton, Vermont, bore witness to a fierce confrontation during the American Revolutionary War. Today, the Hubbardton Battlefield State Historic Site stands as a testament to this pivotal moment in history.
Visitors can explore the meticulously preserved battlefield, where interpretive trails provide insights into the strategies and sacrifices of both American and British forces. The site’s museum houses artifacts and exhibits that delve into the battle’s significance, offering a comprehensive understanding of the events that unfolded on these grounds.
Annually, the site hosts the Battle of Hubbardton Revolutionary War Encampment Weekend, featuring reenactments, tactical demonstrations, and interactive activities that bring history to life. This immersive experience allows attendees to witness the past in a vivid and educational manner.
The Hubbardton Battlefield is located at 5696 Monument Hill Road, accessible via VT Route 30 in Hubbardton or off Exit 5 of US Route 4 in Castleton.
Beyond its historical significance, the site offers picturesque landscapes reminiscent of the 18th century, providing a tranquil setting for reflection and learning.
6. Justin S. Morrill Homestead
The Justin Smith Morrill Homestead in Strafford stands as a testament to the vision and legacy of Senator Justin S. Morrill, the architect of the Land-Grant Acts that revolutionized American higher education. This Gothic Revival masterpiece, designed by Morrill himself and completed in 1851, reflects his appreciation for architecture and landscape design.
The homestead’s distinctive features include elaborate bargeboards, decorative finials, and a picturesque setting that embodies the romantic landscape movement of the 19th century. Surrounding the house are meticulously planned gardens and orchards, showcasing Morrill’s dedication to horticulture and his belief in the integration of beauty and utility.
In recognition of its historical and architectural significance, the property was designated as Vermont’s first National Historic Landmark in 1960. Typically, the homestead offers guided tours, educational programs, and hosts various cultural events that delve into Morrill’s contributions and the era he influenced. However, for the 2025 season, the site remains closed due to ongoing restoration and drainage rehabilitation efforts.
While in Strafford, visitors can still appreciate the village’s historic charm, including the 1799 Strafford Town House and other structures connected to Morrill’s life. These sites provide a broader context to his enduring impact on the community and the nation.
7. Old Constitution House State Historic Site
In the heart of Windsor stands the Old Constitution House, a modest yet profoundly significant structure often hailed as the birthplace of Vermont’s statehood. It was within the walls of this former tavern that, on July 8, 1777, delegates convened to draft and adopt the Constitution of the “Free and Independent State of Vermont.” This pioneering document was notably the first in America to prohibit adult slavery and to establish universal male suffrage without property ownership requirements.
Originally constructed before 1777, Elijah West’s tavern served as a central hub for political discourse and decision-making during a tumultuous period. Over the centuries, the building has undergone various transformations, including stints as a retail space and residential housing. Recognizing its historical importance, preservation efforts commenced in the early 20th century, leading to its restoration and eventual designation as a state historic site.
Visitors to the Old Constitution House can explore period rooms that reflect its 18th-century tavern origins, including the tap room where spirited debates once took place. Exhibits delve into Vermont’s formative years, offering insights into the state’s early governance and societal values. Notably, in 2023, an LGBTQ+ Pride Tree was planted on the grounds, symbolizing Vermont’s ongoing commitment to equity and social justice.
8. Rockingham Meetinghouse
Perched atop a gentle hill in Rockingham, the Rockingham Meeting House stands as a testament to 18th-century New England architecture and community spirit. Constructed between 1787 and 1801, this remarkably preserved structure served dual purposes as both a place of worship and a venue for town meetings. Its design reflects the austere elegance of the period, featuring a simple yet harmonious facade complemented by original interior elements such as box pews and a prominent pulpit.
Surrounding the meeting house is a historic cemetery with gravestones dating back to 1776, offering insights into the lives of the town’s early settlers. The site’s authenticity and significance have earned it the designation of a National Historic Landmark.
In recent years, the town of Rockingham has initiated a comprehensive preservation project to ensure the meeting house endures for future generations. Funded in part by a Save America’s Treasures grant from the National Park Service, the project focuses on structural stabilization, drainage improvements, and restoration of original features.
Visitors are welcome to explore the Rockingham Meeting House from Memorial Day through Columbus Day, with knowledgeable docents available to enrich the experience. The venue also hosts various events, including the annual “Old Home Days” celebrations, and is available for private gatherings, offering a unique historical ambiance.
9. Naulakha (Rudyard Kipling House)
Nestled in the serene hills of Dummerston, Naulakha stands as a testament to literary history and architectural uniqueness. Built in 1892 for renowned author Rudyard Kipling, this Shingle-style residence became the birthplace of some of his most celebrated works, including The Jungle Book and Captains Courageous.
The name “Naulakha,” meaning “great jewel” in Hindi, reflects Kipling’s deep connection to India and was inspired by the Naulakha Pavilion in Lahore Fort. The house’s design mirrors this influence, resembling an Indian bungalow with its elongated structure and shingled exterior. Kipling himself likened it to a ship sailing through Vermont’s verdant landscape.
Today, Naulakha is meticulously preserved by The Landmark Trust USA and offers a unique opportunity for guests to immerse themselves in Kipling’s world. Accommodating up to eight visitors, the residence retains much of its original furnishings, including the desk where Kipling penned his famous tales. The property also features lush gardens, with rhododendrons that bloom spectacularly in early June, often celebrated with public tours.
10. St. Johnsbury Athenaeum
In the heart of St. Johnsbury, the St. Johnsbury Athenaeum stands as a beacon of 19th-century intellectual pursuit. Established in 1871 by Horace Fairbanks, this institution seamlessly combines a public library with an art gallery, embodying the era’s commitment to the arts and education.
Architecturally, the Athenaeum is a masterpiece of the Second Empire style, characterized by its mansard roof and ornate detailing. The interior preserves original furnishings and decorative elements, offering visitors an authentic glimpse into its storied past.
The art gallery, added in 1873, houses an impressive collection of over 100 works, with a significant emphasis on the Hudson River School. Notable pieces include Albert Bierstadt’s monumental “The Domes of the Yosemite,” which commands attention with its grandeur.
Beyond its art and architecture, the Athenaeum functions as a vibrant community hub, offering a range of programs and resources that continue to enrich the cultural fabric of the region.
Recognized as a National Historic Landmark, the St. Johnsbury Athenaeum invites visitors to immerse themselves in a space where history, art, and literature converge, providing a timeless sanctuary for exploration and learning.
