Wallingford has country living and outdoor recreation
Wallingford offers serene surroundings between the Taconic and Green mountains. The town of 2,300 attracts buyers on the hunt for acreage and small-town charm without sacrificing proximity to nearby cities like Rutland, 15 minutes away. Main Street is lined with locally owned shops and eateries, and nearby recreation is plentiful. Major winter sport destinations like Killington Resort and Okema Mountain Resort are within a 20-minute drive, and the Appalachian Trail runs right next to the community.
Mountain hiking, biking and skiing nearby
In town, Meadow Street Park has basketball courts, ball fields, a playground and a tennis court. A pedestrian bridge crosses Otter Creek and connects to Stone Meadow Park, where kayakers and canoers can put in. For bigger adventure, nearby Green Mountain National Forest spans more than 400,000 acres, offering hiking, biking, camping, hunting and fishing. Winter sports are a popular pastime in the region, and locals aren't far from Killington, one of the biggest resorts in Vermont. Every year, more than 800,000 people flock to the so-called “Beast of the East” for skiing, snowboarding and tubing. Tumbling waterfalls and sweeping vistas await hikers at White Rocks National Recreation Area. Elfin Lake is open to the public during the summer months.
Locally owned restaurants and shops on Main Street
Nature lovers can take a break from the outdoors and enjoy the local cafes and boutiques on Main Street. Mornings may start at Sweet Birch Coffee Roasters and Bakery or Main Street Café, while Victoria Inn is a staple for dinner and date nights. During the summer, Kelly’s Snack Shack serves up sandwiches and maple creemees. Handmade in Vermont specializes in artisanal home goods, including furniture, light fixtures and décor. Just outside of town, The Sparkle Barn offers local art and gifts, plus the “Bloom Room,” an immersive floor-to-ceiling floral art experience. Family Dollar has essentials, but Rutland has more options, about 10 miles away. Locals also buy goods directly from farmers, produce stands and pick-your-own operations like Sugar Hill Berry Farm.
New England architecture with Vermont views
Cape Cod, Colonial and farmhouse architecture can be found inside and outside of town, while log cabins are common in the countryside. Lots in the center of Wallingford are more compact, but rural homes tend to sit on multiple acres with views of meadows, mountains, creeks and woodlands. The median price of a single-family home is $340,000, much lower than Burlington’s median of $500,000.
Rutland is 15 minutes away via Route 7
Route 7 is the main artery between Burlington and Albany, New York, and is heavily traveled by locals and visitors alike. Several Rutland Public Transportation bus stops are in town and connect to Rutland and Manchester. Rutland Regional Medical Center is the closest hospital, while Burlington and Patrick Leahy Burlington International Airport are about 90 miles away.
Mill River High School is known for performing and visual arts programs
Kids can start at Wallingford Elementary School, which receives a C grade from Niche, followed by Mill River High School, which receives a C-plus and serves grades 7 through 12 in North Clarendon. The high school is well-known for its performing and visual arts programs. Juniors and seniors in Vermont can take two courses at any Vermont college for free, with the exception of Middlebury College.
Community spirit on display during Wallingford Day
Wallingford Day is the town’s annual celebration with live entertainment, vendors, food and a fireworks show to end the night. The town hosts other holiday events, such as a Memorial Day parade, and community events like ballroom dance classes at the town hall.
Written By
Leslie Klosterman
