There are so many great things to do in and around Brattleboro.  If you are like us, we sometimes obsess over trying to figure out a “plan” when we travel.  So for those who want a plan, and for others who may just be wondering what there is to do around Brattleboro, we have now put together a sample itinerary of a great trip to Brattleboro Vermont.

Our sample covers a 5 night stay (we could have gone on even longer!) but combines a fun mix of outdoors, arts, entertainment, dining and of course some relaxing too.  You can check out what we have put together on our Inn website under the “Our Area” tab.

If you are from Vermont, or have any suggestions for the itinerary, we would love to hear your thoughts!  Leave us a comment or send us an email.  Let’s make it easy and fun for people to choose Brattleboro as their summer getaway!

Of course, we hope you’ll stay with us at Forty Putney Road Bed and Breakfast when you do take the trip to Vermont!

It is that time of year once again, that’s right, the Strolling of the Heifers here in Brattleboro. You may be thinking why or who would possibly want to see a bunch of cows walk down Main Street? It is pretty clear by last year’s photos as to who would attend such an event, everyone! So here are my top 3 reasons this is the biggest event in Brattleboro, and a must attend.

#3 Cows are cute!

Who can resist the cute face of a cow. Not only will you see their cute faces you will see them all dressed up for the event. We are not just talking about live cows either. We are talking about paper machete cows on floats, stuffed cows on the side of the road, cow aprons, cow T-shirts, balloon cows, people dressed up like cows and finally cow scarecrows (with a political message of course…this is Brattleboro, VT after all).

#2 Not just cows?

That is correct this parade is not all about cows it is about a community joining together to celebrate and do what we love to do here in Brattleboro… that is to parade down Main Street. According to local historians the town of Brattleboro has been parading down Main Street since the 1800’s. You will find more than just cows parading down Main Street, you will also see the kind of parade you may remember as a child. That’s right this parade has marching bands, unicyclists, stilt walkers, clubs, local businesses, men and women driving historic tractors and little cars. That’s not all…don’t forget about the circus. The local circus school will be in the parade and performing afterward.

#1 Free Ice Cream and Cheese!

After the parade we stroll just a few blocks to the Brattleboro Retreat where tent after tent is set up. Each tent is serving locally made dairy products including milk, yogurt, cheese, and ice cream. The best part is it is all free…that’s right free!

Clear your schedule on June 5th and 6th (2009), book a room at Forty Putney Road Bed and Breakfast and join the festivities. This is sure to be worth the trip!

We are happy to welcome the new Grafton Cheese Factory and country store here to Brattleboro.  As you would expect, this new state of the art facility has a viewing gallery where you can watch the process of cheese making through the large display window on the second floor.  What you may be surprised to find however is that the first floor is a wonderful place to literally get a taste of Vermont.  Not only will you find delicious Grafton Cheeses, you will also find about 60 other Vermont and Imported cheeses in a variety of styles.  Lactose intolerant?  No worries – Grafton Cheese Company is also fully stocked with other local and Vermont products.  You will find Mocha Joe’s Coffee, Side Hill Farms Jams, Vermont Smoke and Cure Meats, Maple Syrup and more Maple Syrup, Vermont Chocolates, Ben and Jerry’s Ice Cream…and more (and more and more).  My favorite part of course is the sample bar.  I love to sample good food before I purchase it.  One final unique touch, a wide selection of fine wines, displayed and organized by cheese pairings.  Educational and delicious!

For the kids and animal lovers of all ages out there you enjoy the Retreat Petting farm which is located just out front.  This is a must stop if you are visiting or driving through Brattleboro.  Conviniently located just around the corner from our Vermont Bed and Breakfast, on Route 30 opposite the Retreat Meadow.