Nestled in the heart of the Mad River Valley, Waitsfield, Vermont is the kind of town that feels like a postcard come to life.
Surrounded by mountains, rivers, farms, and forests, this little village blends outdoor adventure with farm-to-table dining, history, and a creative arts scene.
Whether you’re coming for winter skiing, summer hiking, or fall foliage, Waitsfield offers something unique every season.
Here’s a list of the 10 best things to do in Waitsfield that will make you fall in love with this Vermont gem.
1. Mad River Glen Cooperative Ski Area
If you’re a skier, Mad River Glen is legendary.
Known for its “Ski It If You Can” motto, it’s one of the only cooperatively-owned ski areas in the country.
Unlike the big commercial resorts, Mad River Glen keeps things simple, authentic, and challenging — with narrow trails, natural snow, and terrain that makes expert skiers grin.
Why Visit: It feels like stepping back into skiing’s golden era, where the focus is on community and the mountain itself.
Pro Tip: Even if you don’t ski, ride the Single Chair Lift in fall for unbeatable foliage views across the valley.
- Nearby attractions or towns worth combining with the visit: Warren Village, known for its charming covered bridge and the Warren Store.
- Food and drink recommendations nearby: Lawson’s Finest Liquids in Waitsfield for craft beer.
2. Sugarbush Resort (Lincoln Peak)
Just down the road, Sugarbush Resort offers a completely different vibe — big, bold, and family-friendly.
It’s one of the largest ski resorts in New England, with 111 trails and terrain for all levels.
Beyond skiing and snowboarding, Sugarbush offers summer mountain biking, golf, and scenic chairlift rides that are spectacular in autumn.
Nearby Attractions: Pair a day here with a visit to Mad River Glen for the ultimate Vermont ski experience.
Pro Tip: Visit during fall and take the Lincoln Peak chairlift ride for jaw-dropping foliage panoramas.
- Nearby attractions or towns worth combining with the visit: Warren Falls for a summer swim, or Lincoln Gap for a scenic drive.
- Food and drink recommendations nearby: Rumble’s Bistro & Bar at Sugarbush for après-ski dining.
3. The Big Picture Theater & Café
This isn’t just a theater — it’s a Waitsfield institution.
At The Big Picture Theater & Café, you can watch indie films, listen to live music, or just relax with a glass of wine and a farm-to-table meal.
It’s cozy, quirky, and a favorite local hangout.
Food Highlight: Their menu features fresh, locally sourced ingredients — perfect for a casual dinner before catching a movie.
- Nearby attractions or towns worth combining with the visit: Explore Waitsfield Village shops and galleries.
- Food and drink recommendations nearby: Visit Peasant Restaurant for rustic European-inspired dining.
4. Waitsfield Historical Society
Step back in time at the Waitsfield Historical Society, where you’ll find artifacts, photographs, and stories that tell the tale of this valley town.
It’s a small but fascinating stop, especially for anyone who loves Vermont’s local history.
Insider Tip: Check if they’re running a walking tour of Waitsfield Village — it adds another layer to your visit.
- Nearby attractions or towns worth combining with the visit: Warren Village and its historic charm.
- Food and drink recommendations nearby: Sweet Spot for coffee and baked goods.
5. The Round Barn Farm
Waitsfield is home to one of Vermont’s most iconic buildings — the Round Barn Farm.
This beautifully restored 19th-century barn, surrounded by rolling meadows and mountains, is often used for weddings and events.
It’s picture-perfect in every season, but fall foliage makes it downright magical.
Best Time to Visit: October, when the backdrop of fiery red, orange, and yellow leaves makes every photo Instagram-worthy.
- Nearby attractions or towns worth combining with the visit: Explore scenic roads of the Mad River Valley.
- Food and drink recommendations nearby: Pitcher Inn in Warren for fine dining.
6. Artisans’ Gallery
Waitsfield has a creative streak, and you’ll find it at the Artisans’ Gallery.
This cooperative space features local Vermont artists showcasing pottery, jewelry, paintings, and woodcraft.
Everything here feels unique and handmade — the kind of souvenirs you won’t find in tourist shops.
Pro Tip: If you’re lucky, you might meet artists in person during gallery events and festivals.
- Nearby attractions or towns worth combining with the visit: Visit nearby Fayston for more scenic drives and hidden art studios.
- Food and drink recommendations nearby: The Sweet Spot for coffee and pastries before or after browsing.
7. Waitsfield Farmers Market
There’s no better way to taste Vermont than at the Waitsfield Farmers Market.
Running from late spring through fall, the market is full of fresh produce, maple syrup, cheeses, handmade crafts, and live music.
It’s the kind of place where you can spend an entire Saturday morning without realizing how quickly time flies.
Food Recommendation: Don’t leave without trying Vermont’s famous maple treats — maple cotton candy, maple cream, or a warm cider donut.
- Nearby attractions or towns worth combining with the visit: Combine with a drive to Waterbury for more food stops.
- Food and drink recommendations nearby: Taste cider at Mad River Distillers nearby.
8. Mad River Path
If you want to stretch your legs without a strenuous hike, the Mad River Path is perfect.
This scenic network of trails winds through meadows, woods, and along the river, connecting parts of the village.
It’s family-friendly and great for casual walks, photography, and spotting wildlife.
Insider Tip: Visit during fall for a quiet, foliage-filled walk away from the crowds.
- Nearby attractions or towns worth combining with the visit: Drive to Warren Falls for a quick dip in summer.
- Food and drink recommendations nearby: Try Canteen Creemee Company for creative ice cream treats.
9. Lareau Farm / American Flatbread
This one’s a must-do in Waitsfield.
At Lareau Farm, you’ll find the original American Flatbread, a wood-fired pizza restaurant that has reached cult status across Vermont and beyond.
The atmosphere is rustic and warm, and the pizza is out of this world.
Food Highlight: Try their maple-sausage flatbread — it’s a Vermont classic.
Pro Tip: Expect a wait, but grab a drink and enjoy the cozy farm setting while you do. It’s part of the experience.
- Nearby attractions or towns worth combining with the visit: Combine with a stop at Warren Falls or a scenic drive along Route 100.
- Food and drink recommendations nearby: Pair your pizza with craft beer from Lawson’s Finest Liquids.
10. Village Grocery
Sometimes the simplest stops are the best.
Village Grocery, also called “the VG,” is a small-town general store where you’ll find everything from hearty breakfast sandwiches to maple syrup souvenirs.
It’s the kind of place locals swear by — no frills, just good food and good people.
Pro Tip: Stop here early in the morning to fuel up before hitting the slopes or the trails. Their breakfast sandwiches are legendary.
- Nearby attractions or towns worth combining with the visit: Head towards Waterbury for Ben & Jerry’s Ice Cream Factory.
- Food and drink recommendations nearby: Sample craft beer at Prohibition Pig in Waterbury.
Conclusion
Waitsfield may be a small town, but it punches way above its weight when it comes to things to see and do.
From skiing some of Vermont’s most famous slopes to eating wood-fired pizza on a farm, from exploring local art to strolling farmers markets, this Mad River Valley gem has something for everyone.
Whether you’re visiting in the snowy winter or during the fiery fall foliage season, Waitsfield guarantees an experience that’s as authentic as Vermont gets.
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