10 Fun Things To Do Near Pownal Center, Vermont (Bennington County)
Pownal Center, Vermont is the kind of place many people drive through on their way to somewhere else… and totally miss the magic around them. Tucked in the southern tip of Bennington County, right by the Massachusetts and New York borders, this tiny village is surrounded by quiet valleys, rolling hills, and classic New England charm.
If you’re looking for simple, outdoorsy, budget‑friendly fun, this corner of Vermont delivers. Here are
10 things to do near Pownal Center, VT that are perfect for a weekend getaway or a slow road trip.
1. Hike the Taconic Ridge near the Vermont–Massachusetts Line
If you like wide views and fresh air, start with the
Taconic Ridge, just a short drive from Pownal Center. The Taconic Range forms the border between Vermont, Massachusetts, and New York, and there are several trailheads within easy reach.
On a clear day, you can see:
- The rolling farms of Pownal and North Pownal
- Mount Greylock in Massachusetts
- Distant peaks in New York’s Berkshires
Trails here range from easy walks to steeper climbs, so you can pick what fits your energy level. Bring:
- Good walking shoes or hiking boots
- A light jacket (it can be breezy up top)
- Water and a simple snack
Sunset on the ridge is especially beautiful, with the valley below glowing in soft light.
2. Take a Scenic Drive Along Route 7 to Bennington
From Pownal Center,
U.S. Route 7 is your main gateway north. It’s more than just a road—it’s a classic
Vermont scenic drive.
The ride to Bennington is about 15–20 minutes and is full of:
- Open fields and old barns
- Hilltop views and forested slopes
- Quaint houses and small country stores
In fall, the foliage along Route 7 is stunning, with red and gold leaves everywhere. In winter, you’ll see snow‑covered pastures and icy streams. It’s the kind of drive where you roll the windows down (when it’s warm enough) and just breathe deeper.
Tip: Stop at one of the wide pull-offs to snap a few photos of the valley. It’s a simple thing, but it really captures the feel of southern Vermont.
3. Visit the Bennington Battle Monument
About 13 miles north of Pownal Center, in the small city of
Bennington, you’ll find one of Vermont’s most famous landmarks: the
Bennington Battle Monument.
This 306‑foot tall stone obelisk honors a key American victory in the Revolutionary War. You can:
- Ride the elevator to the top (seasonal, small fee)
- Enjoy sweeping views of Bennington, Pownal’s hills, and the Green Mountains
- Wander the lawn and read historic markers
On a clear day, you can see into
three states at once—Vermont, Massachusetts, and New York. Kids usually love the elevator ride and the WOW moment when the doors open at the top.
If you’re interested in
American history and you’re staying in or near Pownal, this is a must‑do.
4. Stroll Bennington’s Downtown & Covered Bridges
Once you’ve seen the monument, head into
downtown Bennington. It’s cozy, walkable, and full of small-town character—only about 15–20 minutes from Pownal Center.
Things to do:
- Browse local shops for Vermont maple syrup and handmade gifts
- Grab coffee or a sweet treat at a café
- Walk past historic brick buildings and old churches
Don’t miss Bennington’s
covered bridges. Within a short drive you can see:
- Silk Road Covered Bridge
- Paper Mill Village Bridge
- Henry Covered Bridge
These classic wooden bridges feel like stepping into a postcard. They’re great spots for photos, quiet reflection, or just listening to the river run underneath.
5. Explore MASS MoCA in North Adams, Massachusetts
Pownal Center sits in a sweet spot: Vermont charm, but very close to the
Berkshires in western Massachusetts. In about 20–25 minutes, you can drive south to
North Adams, MA and visit
MASS MoCA (Massachusetts Museum of Contemporary Art).
Even if you’re not a “museum person,” MASS MoCA is different. Housed in a huge old factory complex, it offers:
- Massive art installations in old brick mill buildings
- Outdoor sculptures and murals
- Live music and performances on certain days
It’s one of the largest centers for contemporary art in the country, and it pairs really well with a quiet, nature‑filled stay in Pownal. You get galleries and green fields in the same weekend.
Planning tip:
- Set aside at least 2–3 hours—there’s a lot to see.
- Check their website for current exhibits and events.
6. Drive (or Hike) Up Mount Greylock, Massachusetts’ Highest Peak
From Pownal Center, you’re not far from
Mount Greylock State Reservation in Massachusetts, about 30–40 minutes away by car. Mount Greylock is the highest point in Massachusetts at about 3,491 feet.
What you can do there:
- Drive to the summit (seasonal auto road, usually open late spring to fall)
- Hike one of the many trails ranging from short walks to full‑day hikes
- Enjoy huge 360‑degree views from the top
On a clear day, you can sometimes see as far as five states. It’s a great day trip from Pownal for:
- Families who want to drive to a big view
- Hikers looking for a challenge
- Photographers chasing sunrise or sunset
After a busy hike or drive, heading back to the quieter roads around Pownal Center feels especially peaceful.
7. Taste Local Vermont Flavor at Farm Stands & Country Stores
One of the simple joys near Pownal Center is stopping at
local farm stands and small country stores that dot Bennington County.
Depending on the season, you might find:
- Fresh corn, tomatoes, and greens in late summer
- Apples, cider, and pumpkins in fall
- Local cheeses, jams, and maple syrup most of the year
These small spots often run on the honor system: a cooler of goods, a price list, and a cash box. It’s very “small‑town Vermont” and part of what makes the area feel so welcoming.
If you’re staying in a rental cabin or campground near Pownal Center, stocking up at farm stands is a fun way to build a Vermont‑inspired meal.
8. Walk the Trails and Grounds of Bennington College
Just north of Pownal Center you’ll find
Bennington College, sitting on over 400 acres of fields and woods. It’s an easy drive up Route 7 and offers a peaceful place to stretch your legs.
What to enjoy:
- Quiet paths through open meadows and light woods
- Views of the surrounding hills
- Interesting campus buildings and outdoor art pieces
It’s a nice spot for:
- A relaxed morning walk before hitting the road
- A quick leg‑stretch if you’re driving long distance
- Reading on a bench under a big Vermont tree
Be respectful of campus rules and any posted signs, especially when students are on site, but in general the grounds are welcoming and calm.
9. Enjoy a Relaxed Day in Williamstown, MA
About 20–25 minutes south of Pownal Center lies
Williamstown, Massachusetts, another gem close by. It’s home to
Williams College and has a classic New England college‑town feel.
Here’s what you can do in Williamstown:
- Visit the Clark Art Institute (great art in a beautiful setting)
- Stroll the college campus and tidy downtown streets
- Grab lunch or dinner at a local café or bistro
If you’re combining Vermont and the Berkshires in one trip, Williamstown makes an easy, relaxed day trip from Pownal. Spend the day in town, then return to the calmer roads and wide skies around Pownal Center in the evening.
10. Unplug Under the Stars in Rural Pownal
One of the
best things to do near Pownal Center doesn’t require tickets, trail maps, or admission fees: just look up.
Because this part of southern Vermont is so rural, you’ll often find:
- Dark skies with bright stars on clear nights
- Quiet roads with very little traffic
- The kind of stillness that’s hard to find in busy cities
If you’re staying at a:
- Cabin or vacation rental
- Local inn or B&B
- Nearby campground
try this: turn off your phone, step outside for 15–20 minutes, and just let your eyes adjust. You may see the Milky Way, shooting stars, or simply more stars than you’re used to.
Travel doesn’t always have to be about “doing” something. In Pownal Center, sometimes the best activity is just being there.
Planning Your Visit to Pownal Center, Vermont
To make the most of your trip:
- Rent a car: Public transportation is very limited—having your own wheels makes it easy to explore Bennington County and the nearby Berkshires.
- Check seasons: Fall is popular for foliage, summer is great for hiking, and winter brings a quiet, snowy charm (but watch the weather and road conditions).
- Book ahead: Lodging options right in Pownal are limited, so you may stay in nearby Bennington, Williamstown, or North Adams.
This area is perfect if you:
- Love small towns and scenic drives
- Enjoy hikes and outdoor views more than big city nightlife
- Want to blend Vermont’s countryside with art and culture in the Berkshires
What Would You Do Near Pownal Center?
Have you explored
Pownal Center, Vermont or nearby Bennington County? Did you find a favorite trail, farm stand, or hidden spot that’s not on this list?
Share your tips in the comments—your ideas can help other travelers plan their own Vermont adventure.
And if you found this guide helpful, please
share it with a friend who loves small towns, scenic drives, and off‑the‑beaten‑path places in New England.
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