Woodstock, VT: A Timeless Retreat
Nestled in the heart of the Green Mountains, Woodstock, VT, captures of the essence of a classic New England town that offers a perfect blend of history, culture, and natural beauty. Known for its picturesque landscapes and well-preserved Georgian and Federal architecture, Woodstock is an ideal destination for seniors seeking an active and fulfilling lifestyle.
1. Historic Charm and Community Spirit
Woodstock’s historic charm is evident in its well-preserved 19th-century architecture and vibrant community life. The town’s central village is home to a variety of shops, galleries, and restaurants, all within walking distance. The Woodstock Historical Society and the Billings Farm & Museum offer rich cultural experiences that celebrate the town’s heritage.
2. Senior Living and Healthcare
Woodstock provides excellent senior living options, including Woodstock Terrace, which offers assisted living and memory care services. The community is designed to support seniors’ independence while providing necessary care. Additionally, the nearby Dartmouth-Hitchcock’s Ottauquechee Health Center ensures access to high-quality healthcare services. If you are considering purchasing real estate, Woodstock has some truly exceptional homes that capture New England aesthetics beyond compare. No wonder it’s considered by so many to be one of New England’s most picturesque towns.
3. Natural Beauty and Outdoor Activities
Surrounded by the Green Mountains, Woodstock offers numerous outdoor activities that cater to all seasons. You will find hiking, fishing, golf and tennis in the summer, while winter brings opportunities for skiing and snowshoeing. The Marsh-Billings-Rockefeller National Historical Park is a local gem, providing scenic trails and educational programs. The Woodstock Inn is a hub for Swimming, Golf, and Tennis at their Athletic Club. Woodstock is home to one of the best courses in Vermont; the Robert Trent Jones designed course at the Woodstock Country Club. For an outdoorsy experience, hit the trails at Mt. Peg for breathtaking views of the Ottauquechee River Valley. Mt. Peg is perfect for biking, hiking, and XC skiing. For skiing, Woodstock is an easy drive to Killington, or for the ultimate local alpine experience, ski Saskadena Six, where they’ve been skiing since 1934.
4. Cultural and Recreational Opportunities
Woodstock’s vibrant cultural scene includes local theaters, art galleries, and annual events such as the Woodstock Film Series and the Wassail Weekend. The town also boasts a strong sense of community, with numerous clubs and organizations that offer social engagement and volunteer opportunities for seniors.
Bennington, VT: A Blend of Tradition and Modernity
Located in the southwestern corner of Vermont, Bennington is a town that beautifully combines historical significance with modern amenities. Known for its rich history and vibrant arts scene, Bennington is an attractive destination for seniors looking to enjoy their retirement years.
1. Historical Significance and Community Life
Bennington’s historical significance is highlighted by landmarks such as the Bennington Battle Monument and the Old First Church. The town’s downtown area features a variety of shops, cafes, and cultural institutions, fostering a strong sense of community.
2. Senior Living and Healthcare
Bennington offers a range of senior living options, including Brookdale Fillmore Pond, which provides independent living, assisted living, and memory care services. The Bennington Project Independence Adult Day Service offers additional support and activities for seniors. Mission Care at Bennington and other local healthcare facilities ensure that seniors have access to comprehensive medical care. Construction is about to begin on Bennington High Project. This nearly $30MM project aims to redevelop the former Bennington High School into 39 housing units, a multigenerational child care center, and the Bennington Senior Center among other community features. The design incorporates historic aspects of the early 20th Century façade and blends those features with modern design elements. Notable is that this project is in the heart of Bennington’s walkable downtown; a facet that should keep seniors at the heart of Bennington for generations to come. If you are considering purchasing real estate, Bennington has many wonderful homeownership options for a high quality of life at an exceptional value.
3. Natural Beauty and Outdoor Activities
Bennington is surrounded by the scenic beauty of the Green Mountains and the northern Taconics. Explore the Bennington Battle Monument State Historic Site, hike the trails of the Green Mountain National Forest, or enjoy a leisurely stroll through the town’s parks and gardens.
4. Cultural and Recreational Opportunities
Bennington’s cultural scene is vibrant, with institutions like the Bennington Museum, Bennington Museum and Bennington’s Monument Arts & Cultural Center offering a variety of programs and events. The town also hosts annual festivals, and art shows, providing ample opportunities to be social and get up and close with local culture. Alpine skiing is close by at either Mount Snow or Stratton. For a vibrant Nordic skiing experience, check out the nearby Prospect Mountain. If you’re a golfer, sign up for a league at the lovely Mount Anthony Country Club or check out some of the other close-by, World-Class golfing venues such as the Four Seasons Resort – Equinox in Manchester.
To conclude, both Woodstock and Bennington are gems that offer unique advantages for seniors seeking a fulfilling and active lifestyle in Vermont.
Whether it’s the historic charm and community spirit of Woodstock or the blend of tradition and modernity in Bennington, these towns provide ideal environments that capture the spirit of Vermont for your golden years. Beyond the gorgeous architecture and breathtaking views, both Woodstock and Bennington are small Vermont towns at their core. They capture what it means to be a community and they are small enough where people know each other and will lend you a hand when you’re in need, because that’s what Vermonters do. I recently saw this spirit in action first-hand when my son had a rather unfortunate but significant crash in a bike race in Woodstock where he needed medical attention. I was astounded by the outpouring of support and kindness my family received from the Woodstock Rescue and members of Woodstock Area Mountain Bike Association. The fabric of society is still very strong in Vermont and I’m proud to call this state my home.
If you have any specific questions or need further information, feel free to reach out and if you feel that your hometown should be highlighted as an ideal place for seniors, please email me at Ben@DurantAgencyVT.com.
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Bio: Ben Durant lives with his wife and three children in Vermont. He owns The Durant Agency, a real estate brokerage focused on downsizing as well as age-in-place property management. Ben is solely focused on helping older Vermonters achieve their very best life.
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