10 Fun Things To Do Near North Springfield, Vermont (Windsor County)
Looking for low-key, beautiful places to explore in Vermont?
North Springfield, tucked inside Windsor County, is one of those quiet spots most travelers drive past without realizing how much there is to do nearby.
Whether you’re planning a weekend getaway, a foliage road trip, or just passing through on Route 106 or Route 10, this area is perfect if you like small-town vibes, country roads, covered bridges, and classic New England charm.
Below are
10 things to do near North Springfield, VT that will give you a real taste of the region.
1. Stroll Through Downtown Springfield, Vermont
North Springfield is just a few minutes from
Springfield’s downtown, and it’s worth the short drive.
You’ll find:
- Historic brick buildings and old mill sites along the river
- Small local shops and cafés
- Easy places to grab coffee, pizza, or a casual meal
It’s the kind of place where you can park your car, walk a few blocks, and feel the pace of life slow down. On a fall afternoon, with leaves turning and church bells ringing in the distance, it feels like you’ve stepped into a small-town movie set.
If you enjoy photography, bring your camera. The mix of old mills, river views, and narrow streets gives you plenty to shoot within a short walking distance.
2. Visit the North Springfield Lake Recreation Area
One of the closest outdoor escapes is
North Springfield Lake, managed by the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers.
Here you can:
- Walk or hike on easy forest trails
- Enjoy a picnic at one of the tables or open grassy areas
- Look for birds and wildlife along the water
The lake area is especially peaceful in the early morning. The air is cool, often a little misty, and you’ll mostly hear birds and the wind in the trees. If you’re someone who likes quiet places instead of crowded tourist spots, this is a great fit.
Always check seasonal hours or any posted rules, especially if water levels are being managed or there’s construction in the area.
3. Step Back in Time at the Eureka Schoolhouse & Baltimore Covered Bridge
Just outside Springfield, you’ll find a classic Vermont combo: a historic one-room schoolhouse and a covered bridge, side by side.
The
Eureka Schoolhouse is one of the oldest one-room schoolhouses in Vermont. Right next to it is the charming
Baltimore Covered Bridge.
A visit here is simple but memorable:
- Walk through the covered bridge and listen to your footsteps echo on the wooden boards.
- Peek inside the schoolhouse and imagine what it was like to learn there 150+ years ago.
- Snap some classic New England photos.
If you’re traveling with kids, this is an easy, low-stress stop. The whole visit can take 20–30 minutes, but it really helps you feel Vermont’s history.
4. Explore the Toonerville Trail (Springfield’s Multi-Use Path)
If you like to walk or bike, check out the
Toonerville Trail, a paved path that runs along the Black River between Springfield and Charlestown, NH.
On this trail, you can:
- Go for an easy bike ride without worrying about cars
- Take a relaxed walk or jog along the river
- Enjoy foliage views in the fall and quiet river scenery in the summer
The trail is family-friendly and relatively flat. If you’re road-tripping with bikes on the back of your car, this is a perfect spot to stretch your legs.
Tip: Bring a light jacket. Even in late spring or early fall, it can feel cooler along the water, especially in the shade.
5. Discover Nature at Wilgus State Park on the Connecticut River
About a short drive southeast of North Springfield, you’ll reach
Wilgus State Park, a quiet park on the banks of the Connecticut River.
Here you can:
- Camp in tent sites or lean-tos right by the river
- Launch a canoe or kayak for a peaceful paddle
- Relax in the shade and watch the current drift by
This park feels like a hidden gem. It’s not as crowded as some of Vermont’s bigger parks, which makes it perfect if you prefer a calm atmosphere.
If you’ve ever wanted to wake up to birds, water, and a light fog on the river, this is one of the best spots near North Springfield to do exactly that.
6. Take a Scenic Drive to Chester, Vermont
From North Springfield, head north to the village of
Chester, another Windsor County favorite. The drive itself is part of the experience, especially in late September and early October when the foliage is at its peak.
In Chester, you’ll find:
- A picturesque town green with historic homes
- Antique shops and small local stores
- Cafés and bakeries where you can linger with a coffee
Think of Chester as a classic small Vermont town, with a slightly artsy, cozy feel. It’s a nice half-day outing if you’re based in or near North Springfield and want to explore a bit without driving too far.
7. Go Skiing or Hiking at Okemo Mountain (Ludlow)
If you’re visiting North Springfield in winter or summer, you’re within easy reach of one of Vermont’s well-known mountain resorts:
Okemo Mountain in nearby Ludlow.
In winter, you can:
- Ski or snowboard on a variety of trails
- Warm up in the lodge with hot chocolate
- Try snow tubing or take a scenic lift ride if you’re not a hardcore skier
In summer and fall, Okemo offers:
- Hiking trails with beautiful views
- Scenic lift rides to see the Green Mountains from above
- Mountain biking options, depending on conditions
One nice thing about staying near North Springfield is that you get the calm of a quiet area, but you can still drive to a busier resort town like Ludlow when you want activity.
8. Visit Saint-Gaudens National Historical Park (Across the River in NH)
Just across the Connecticut River in Cornish, New Hampshire (still an easy trip from North Springfield), you’ll find
Saint-Gaudens National Historical Park, the former home of sculptor Augustus Saint-Gaudens.
Here you can:
- Walk through beautiful formal gardens
- View sculptures and outdoor artwork
- Enjoy sweeping views of the river valley and mountains
Even if you’re not usually into art, the setting alone is worth it. The grounds feel peaceful and open, and the park has a unique blend of nature and creativity that’s hard to find elsewhere.
This is a great day trip if you want something a bit more “cultural” while staying in the North Springfield area.
9. Sample Local Flavor at Nearby Farms & Markets
One of the best things to do near North Springfield is to simply enjoy
local Vermont food.
Depending on the season, look for:
- Roadside farm stands selling fresh produce in summer
- Maple syrup and maple candy in spring and fall
- Apples, cider, and cider donuts at area orchards in autumn
Many small farms and local stores in Windsor County offer:
- Homemade jams and jellies
- Local cheeses
- Fresh baked bread and pies
If you time your trip right, you might catch a small farmers’ market in Springfield or a nearby town. These places are great not just for food, but also for meeting locals and getting travel tips that don’t show up in guidebooks.
10. Take a Day Trip to Windsor & the Cornish-Windsor Covered Bridge
About a half-hour or so from North Springfield, the town of
Windsor offers a fun mix of history, food, and scenery.
Highlights include:
- The Cornish-Windsor Covered Bridge, one of the longest covered bridges in the United States
- Views of the Connecticut River and surrounding mountains
- Nearby attractions like local breweries, distilleries, and museums
Driving across the covered bridge is a simple joy. Roll your windows down, listen to the sound of your tires on the wooden planks, and look out at the river as you pass from Vermont into New Hampshire.
It’s a classic New England experience and makes a perfect cap to a day of exploring.
Planning Your Trip to North Springfield, Vermont
Here are a few quick tips to make the most of your visit:
- Best time to visit: Fall for foliage, summer for outdoor activities, winter for skiing at Okemo and other nearby areas.
- Getting around: You’ll want a car. Most of these attractions are 10–45 minutes from North Springfield.
- Packing: Bring layers. Even in summer, mornings and evenings can be cool, especially near lakes and rivers.
- Reservations: If you’re planning to camp or ski during peak season, book ahead.
What makes North Springfield and Windsor County special is that it still feels real and lived-in. This is not a polished theme-park version of Vermont. It’s working farms, quiet roads, friendly locals, and a slower pace that’s easy to fall in love with.
Share Your North Springfield Experience
Have you visited
North Springfield, Vermont or anywhere in Windsor County?
Did you discover a favorite trail, café, or scenic drive that’s not on this list?
I’d love to hear about it.
Drop your tips, stories, or questions in the comments so other travelers can benefit.
And if you found this guide helpful, please
share it with a friend who’s planning a Vermont road trip or looking for new places to explore in New England.
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