The Historic Town That Every Vermonter Should Visit at Least Once

If you're looking for historic towns in Vermont that are a feast for the senses, we've got one for you — look no further than Bellows Falls. This incorporated village in the town of Rockingham has some interesting firsts, incredible architecture, and wonderful restaurants serving fresh, delicious meals. Enjoy the many unique shops, walking tours, artisan open studios, and even a farmers' market that moves indoors in the winter months. Let's take a look at this lovely town that's bursting with charm and history. We're sure you'll love it just as much as we do, and agree that it is a must-stop when in Vermont! Let's go!

Welcome to Bellows Falls, Vermont, a friendly place to hang your hat. You'll love checking out the commercial town center, including the Centennial Block, which was built by the National Bank of Bellows Falls in 1875. The Square has been the commercial center of Bellows Falls practically since the first residents settled there. There are many other historical spots, such as the canal, bridges, and spectacular neighborhoods, that are listed as historic districts on the National Register of Historic Places.

You'll find loads of "painted ladies," ornate, colorful houses in the Victorian neighborhoods, that just ooze with charm! However, there is much more wonderful architecture throughout the town, such as the Post Office, a gorgeous Georgian Revival-style with Spanish Colonial Revival-style elements, built in 1930.

There are also individual landmarks, such as the historic railroad station and the Adams Gristmill Warehouse, to explore. The railroad was also a major part of the village's development, and Amtrak still goes through Bellows Falls today.

When visiting this small Vermont village, you must see the historic Bellows Falls Railroad Tunnel under Bridge Street and the Square, which dates from the 1840s. The bottom of the tunnel was excavated in the 1970s and again in 2007 to allow taller trains to pass through.

Did you know that the Bellows Falls Canal was the first canal built in the United States, dug by a British-owned company from 1791 to 1802? The original canal was 22 feet wide and four feet deep. It had 9 locks (devices used for raising and lowering boats over stretches of water), each 75 feet long and 20 feet wide. This allowed shipping to bypass the Great Falls in the Connecticut River by being lifted 52 feet over the gorge. However, river traffic declined after railroads were built to the Connecticut Valley in 1849. By 1858, the canal had become used almost exclusively for water power to run the paper mills.

Don't miss seeking out the Bellows Falls Petroglyph Site located on Bridge Street. These Native American petroglyphs are beyond fascinating and worth a stop. Another must-visit spot in town is Miss Bellows Falls Diner, set in a historic Worcester Lunch Car. Serving breakfast, lunch, and dinner, this classic eatery has been open since 1944.

You'll simply love a trip to this charming historic town full of wonderful spots to explore. For more information, be sure to check out the Bellows Falls page of the Vermont Vacation website.

Have you ever embarked upon a day trip to Bellows Falls? If so, what was your favorite part, and what are some of your favorite things to do in Bellows Falls? If you've enjoyed this lovely little sojourn, then here are more historic towns in Vermont (including Bellows Falls) that you'll also love to explore.