Middlebury is a town in Addison County, Vermont, located in the Green Mountains. It’s known as a home to Middlebury College and its lively downtown area. With its beautiful natural scenery, a vibrant arts and cultural scene, and plenty of outdoor activities, Middlebury is the perfect backdrop for a romantic date. Whether you’re looking for a relaxing stroll or an unforgettable evening, there’s plenty of options for couples of all ages.
1. Middlebury parks and places for a walk on a first date
Middlebury has many parks and trails for a romantic walk on a first date. Some of the best are: Otter Creek Nature Preserve, which is one of the most abundant of the five Town Parks in Middlebury; North Branch Nature Center, which offers 3 miles of trails; and Ripton Recreation Area, which has lovely views of the Green Mountains. For a more leisurely stroll, The Robert Frost Interpretive Trail is a great choice. It’s a 1.5-mile loop that passes through several meadows and woodlands and features quotes from the famous poet.
2. Places for a coffee date in Middlebury
Coffee dates are a great way to get to know one another without the pressure of a formal dinner. Middlebury has plenty of charming cafes where you can grab a coffee, sit and chat. Some of the best include: The Collegiate Crown Cafe, which has a warm and comfortable atmosphere; the Blueberry Cafe, which serves some of the best coffee in town; and Blue Stone Coffee & Roastery, which has a cozy atmosphere and delicious coffee.
3. Middlebury galleries, museums and exhibitions to visit on a date
Middlebury is home to some great galleries, museums and exhibitions. The Middlebury College Museum of Art is a great choice for art lovers. It houses a collection of over 5,000 works, including French Impressionist paintings, Japanese woodblock prints, and contemporary American art. The Henry Sheldon Museum is a great place to learn about the history and culture of Vermont, while the Vermont Folklife Center is a great place to learn about the state’s traditional culture and history.
4. Live music and entertainment to invite your date to in Middlebury
For music and entertainment, there’s plenty of options. The Middlebury College Performing Arts Series hosts a variety of concerts, plays and dance performances throughout the year. For a more intimate experience, The Mill at Middlebury offers live music performances in a charming old mill. Or, why not invite your date to the Flynn Center for the Performing Arts, which hosts a wide range of productions, from Broadway shows to music, comedy and dance.
5. Middlebury pubs, bars or restaurants for a first date drink or food
Middlebury has plenty of great pubs, bars and restaurants for a romantic dinner or drinks. For a cozy dinner, check out Three Penny Taproom, a gastropub with a great selection of craft beers. The Prohibition Pig is also a must-visit, with an excellent menu of hearty foods and award-winning beers. For something a bit fancier, The Copper Grouse features fine dining in a warm and inviting atmosphere.
6. Other date ideas to try in Middlebury
For a unique and memorable date, why not take a hot air balloon ride? The perfect way to take in the breathtaking views of the Green Mountains and the Vermont countryside. For a touch of adventure, you can try kayaking or canoeing on the Middlebury River. If you’re looking for a more romantic experience, you can take a horse-drawn carriage ride through the town. Or, for something more low-key, you can take a picnic to Giddings Park and enjoy the views of the lake. There’s plenty of options for couples of all ages in Middlebury!
