A relatively small town, Orwell is located in the central part of the state right on the western border. Its proximity to New York, as well as its location to Lake Champlain makes it the perfect location for a rural getaway. So whether you want to swim in the lake or hike up some of the mountains, you can get away from the hustle and bustle of city life in Orwell, Vermont.
Mount Independence
One of the nation’s most significant Revolutionary War sites, Mount Independence has six miles of trails to explore the remains of the fortification. Or, take a stroll through their museum and learn more about the strategic position of this North-Eastern fort. In addition to self-guided walks, you could go on guided tours or even see a reenactment, depending on what time you decide to visit.
Fort Ticonderoga
Just a short thirty minute drive away from Orwell, Fort Ticonderoga is another building that carries a lot of history. Attracting more than 75,000 visitors per year, the major cultural site is a center for learning the history of America’s military.
Built by the French in the 1750s, the fort was used both for the French and Indian War, as well as the Revolutionary War. Its strategic placement between both the British-controlled Hudson River Valley and the French-controlled St. Lawrence Valley made it a crucial fort to defend against invaders. Learn about the fort itself and the wars surrounding it through tours, living history, and reenactments that occur throughout the year.
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Orwell Glass
Have you ever wanted the chance to make your own sun catcher or ornament out of glass? At Orwell Glass, book an hour session and work with a glass artist to make your own piece of art to take home. The glass making process has been around for hundreds of years, and is an intricate process that requires patience and precision.
Founded by John Chiles whose work has been featured in museums and galleries around the world, there will be plenty of experts to help you create a masterpiece of your own.
Champlain Orchards
Nothing is better than visiting an orchard and buying some delicious fresh fruit to take home. At Champlain Orchards, you can buy not only apples but peaches, pears, plums, cherries, nectarines, and berries. Spread over 300 acres and producing 175 different varieties, this orchard is one of the oldest still operating in Vermont.
Come visit and choose to either pick your own or buy straight from the store, and enjoy the hard cider made from the apples produced from their orchards.
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Marinas
There are marines scattered all along the shores of Lake Champlain, but there are two in Orwell that are quite special. Chipman Point Marina and Plunder Bay Marina are maybe two miles apart, each possessing a boat ramp or docks to wander.
Though Chipman Point’s steep boat ramp may be more suitable for launching, Plunder Bay’s stretches of docks include several boaters that are more than happy to be your friend, and have a beer with you. Each marina holds their own seasonal activities, including potlucks and canoe races, so make sure you stop by and enjoy the lakeside view.
Recommended Restaurants
The Wheel Inn
If you’re looking for some yummy country-style food, travel over to The Wheel Inn. Serving all day, you can grab all types of food. Daily specials and weekly specials are highlighted on their Facebook page, so if you spy something you might like, don’t hesitate to make the trip.
- Hours: Closed Tues, Wed & Thurs 8-9, Fri & Sat 8-10, Sun & Mon 8-9
America’s Fort Cafe
While you’re visiting Fort Ticonderoga, take a trip over to America’s Fort Cafe and have some delicious lunch. Using locally sourced ingredients as well as locally made cider, this Adirondack-style atmosphere is the perfect place to soak up the great outdoors.
- Hours: Closed Mon, Tues-Sun 11-4
- Featured Food: French Soldier’s Rustic Sandwich / Champlain Monster Melt
Though Orwell is quite a small town in Vermont, there are several activities close by that can appease your travel hunger. Enjoy the fresh air, the greenery, and the fresh hard cider while you kick back in the beautiful state of Vermont.
