Simon Pearce Glass and Quechee Covered Bridge
1 / 10

Simon Pearce Glass and Quechee Covered Bridge

4.8
·415 reviews·Hartford, United States

Discover Vermont's 'Little Grand Canyon' at Quechee Gorge, complemented by the artistry of Simon Pearce glassblowing and a charming covered bridge.

Highlights

Highlights

Must-see attractions

Social content

Social

From TikTok & Reddit

Best Time

Early mornings

Fewer crowds, best light for photos

CrowdLow
Loading map...
Simon Pearce Glass and Quechee Covered Bridge

Simon Pearce Glass and Quechee Covered Bridge

Best Time

Early mornings

Fewer crowds, best light for photos

CrowdLow
Highlights

Highlights

Must-see attractions

Discover Vermont's 'Little Grand Canyon' at Quechee Gorge, complemented by the artistry of Simon Pearce glassblowing and a charming covered bridge.

4.8
(415 reviews)

"An awesome discovery, this stop was a true highlight with beautiful scenery and awesome photo-ops. Reddit"

Vertical photo
TIP

🚗 Parking Pointers

Park across from the falls, but watch for puddles after rain.

📸 Photo Ops Galore

The bridge and gorge offer stunning scenery for memorable pictures.

Third hero image

Highlights

Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences

Quechee Gorge Falls

Quechee Gorge Falls

Quechee Gorge State Park

Witness the 'Little Grand Canyon of Vermont' with its stunning waterfalls and rock formations. A true natural wonder.

Reddit
Quechee Covered Bridge

Quechee Covered Bridge

Over Ottauquechee River

An iconic New England landmark offering picturesque views and a charming historical feel. Perfect for photos.

Reddit
Simon Pearce Glassblowing

Simon Pearce Glassblowing

Adjacent to Quechee Gorge

Watch artisans craft beautiful glassware and browse the exquisite shop. A delightful cultural experience.

Reddit
Your AI travel agent

Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you

Start Chatting

Planning Your Visit

Timing is Key for Quechee Gorge

Visit Quechee Gorge early to avoid crowds and enjoy the best light for photos. Be mindful of parking, especially after rain, as some areas can get muddy. Reddit

Combine with Simon Pearce

The Simon Pearce glassblowing studio and store is right next to the gorge. It's a great spot for unique souvenirs and a meal with a view. Reddit

Best Times

When
Early mornings
Why
Fewer crowds, best light for photos
Crowd
Low
When
Weekdays
Why
Avoid weekend visitor rush
Crowd
Medium
When
Winter
Why
Snowy landscapes, unique charm
Crowd
Low

Insider Tips

from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit

reddit.com

Australian couple visiting Vermont for the first time

🚗 Parking Pointers

Park across from the falls, but watch for puddles after rain. Reddit

📸 Photo Ops Galore

The bridge and gorge offer stunning scenery for memorable pictures. Reddit

reddit.com

What are the most underrated things to do in Vermont?

👨‍👩‍👧 Kid Safety

Be cautious with young children near the stairs to the falls. Reddit

🛍️ Shop Local

Support local artisans at Simon Pearce for unique gifts. Reddit

Tips

from all over the internet

🚗 Parking Pointers

Park across from the falls, but watch for puddles after rain. Reddit

📸 Photo Ops Galore

The bridge and gorge offer stunning scenery for memorable pictures. Reddit

👨‍👩‍👧 Kid Safety

Be cautious with young children near the stairs to the falls. Reddit

🛍️ Shop Local

Support local artisans at Simon Pearce for unique gifts. Reddit

❄️ Winter Wonderland

Visit in winter for a magical snowy landscape and glassblowing. Reddit

What Travellers Say

4.8
(415 reviews)

Reviews Summary

Visitors rave about the stunning natural beauty of Quechee Gorge and the picturesque Quechee Covered Bridge, calling it a 'true highlight' and 'beautiful scenery.' The adjacent Simon Pearce glassblowing studio and store are highly praised for their artistry and unique products, with many enjoying the dining experience. Reddit

"There is parking across the street from the falls, but watch where you park if it’s been raining. The far end of the lot had large puddles when we stopped, and it’s not paved.

The bridge and falls were not part of our planned trip, but we were glad we made the stop. It was beautiful.

There are stairs that lead down to a sitting area right across from the falls. There’s a gate at the top, but it wasn’t latched when we found it, so if you have young kids be careful."

A S

"This is such a beautiful area. To listen to the falls is just heaven, combined with the gorgeous rock formations, the river water and of course in all four seasons it's quite different.

Having Simon Pierce Glass blowing, store and restaurant adjacent is just heavenly .

It's a perfect way to get outside and to enjoy fantastic food do a little shopping and not have the hassles of going to the box stores supporting someone locally"

Mary Cain

"Another beautiful bridge with a glorious water view. I suggest to park on the side parking area and cross the street to view the area. Go early so there is no traffic."

Belle Rod

What People Like

Breathtaking gorge views
Iconic covered bridge
Artistic glassblowing

What People Dislike

Muddy parking areas
Crowds during peak times

Frequently Asked Questions

🚇 🗺️ Getting There

The Simon Pearce Glassblowing studio and the Quechee Covered Bridge are located in Quechee, Vermont. If driving from Montreal to Boston, it's a scenic stop along the way. Reddit Parking is available across the street from the falls, but be aware of potential puddles in unpaved areas after rain. Reddit

Public transportation options directly to Quechee Gorge are limited. It is best accessed by car, making it a convenient stop for road trips through Vermont. Reddit

If you're coming from the north, Route 4 East will lead you directly to Quechee. From the south, you might take I-91 North to Route 4 East. Always check local traffic conditions before you go. Reddit

The closest major airports are Lebanon Municipal Airport (LEB) in New Hampshire, and Burlington International Airport (BTV) in Vermont. From there, you would typically rent a car to reach Quechee. Reddit

Yes, it's a popular day trip destination, especially for those traveling between major cities like Boston or Montreal. You can easily spend a few hours exploring the gorge, bridge, and the Simon Pearce facility. Reddit

🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry

No, there are no admission fees to visit Quechee Gorge or the Quechee Covered Bridge. They are natural landmarks and public spaces. Reddit

The Simon Pearce store and restaurant typically have set operating hours, which can vary seasonally. It's recommended to check their official website for the most up-to-date information on hours for the store, restaurant, and glassblowing demonstrations. Reddit

Parking near Quechee Gorge and the covered bridge is generally free, though it can be limited during peak times. Reddit

Yes, you can walk or drive through the Quechee Covered Bridge. It's a functional bridge that offers a unique perspective of the river below. Reddit

While there aren't typically formal guided tours of the gorge itself, the Simon Pearce facility may offer insights into their glassblowing process. Local tourism information centers might have details on any available local tours. Reddit

🎫 🏞️ Onsite Experience

You can admire the stunning views of the gorge and its waterfalls, walk across the historic Quechee Covered Bridge, and explore the surrounding natural beauty. There are also stairs leading down to a sitting area for a closer view of the falls. Reddit

Simon Pearce is renowned for its handcrafted, high-quality glassware and pottery. Visitors can watch live glassblowing demonstrations and shop for exquisite home goods. Reddit

Yes, but with caution. While the scenery is beautiful, there are stairs leading down to the falls, and the gate at the top may not always be latched, so supervise young children closely. Reddit

The gorge, the covered bridge, and the river offer numerous picturesque spots for photography. The changing seasons also provide unique backdrops. Reddit

Quechee Gorge State Park offers some walking paths and trails that allow you to explore the area around the gorge and river. Reddit

🍽️ 🍽️ Food & Dining

The Simon Pearce restaurant offers a dining experience with beautiful views overlooking the Ottauquechee River. It's a popular choice for a meal after visiting the gorge. Reddit

Yes, the village of Quechee has other local eateries, cafes, and diners offering a range of options from casual to more formal dining. Reddit

While there aren't designated picnic areas directly at the gorge viewpoint, you can find spots nearby to enjoy a packed lunch. Reddit

The Simon Pearce restaurant typically serves American cuisine with a focus on fresh, seasonal ingredients. They are known for their elegant dining experience. Reddit

Reservations are highly recommended, especially during peak seasons or weekends, as the restaurant is quite popular. Reddit

📸 📸 Photography

The viewpoints along the road overlooking the gorge, the Quechee Covered Bridge itself, and the area near the falls offer excellent photo opportunities. Reddit

Early mornings provide softer light and fewer crowds, ideal for capturing the beauty of the gorge. Golden hour in the late afternoon can also yield stunning results. Reddit

Generally, photography is allowed and encouraged in public areas. However, always be respectful of private property and other visitors. Reddit

A wide-angle lens is great for capturing the expanse of the gorge, while a telephoto lens can be useful for details of the falls. A tripod can help with low-light conditions or long exposures of the water. Reddit

Photography of the glassblowing demonstrations is usually permitted, but it's always good to check with staff on site for any specific guidelines. Reddit

For Different Travelers

Tailored advice for your travel style

👨‍👩‍👧 Families with Kids

Quechee Gorge and the Covered Bridge offer a wonderful natural playground for families. Kids will be fascinated by the power of the waterfall and the charm of the covered bridge. Reddit While exploring the gorge, keep a close eye on young children, especially near the stairs leading down to the falls, as they can be steep and the area may not be fully fenced. Reddit The Simon Pearce store offers beautiful items, and watching the glassblowing can be captivating for all ages. Consider a picnic lunch to enjoy the scenic surroundings. Reddit

📸 Photography Enthusiasts

This area is a dream for photographers. Capture the dramatic Quechee Gorge from various viewpoints, focusing on the waterfalls and rock formations. Reddit The Quechee Covered Bridge provides a classic New England shot, especially with the river flowing beneath it. Reddit Early mornings offer the best light and fewer crowds, allowing for unobstructed shots. Don't forget to capture the artistry of the glassblowing process at Simon Pearce. Reddit

🚗 Road Trippers

Simon Pearce Glass and Quechee Covered Bridge make for an ideal stop on a Vermont road trip. It's easily accessible and offers a perfect blend of natural beauty and artisanal craft. Reddit Plan for at least 2-3 hours to comfortably explore the gorge, bridge, and Simon Pearce. Reddit Combine this stop with a meal at the Simon Pearce restaurant for a delightful break in your journey. Reddit

Deep Dives

In-depth insights and expert knowledge

Exploring Quechee Gorge: Vermont's Natural Wonder

Quechee Gorge, often called the 'Little Grand Canyon of Vermont,' is a breathtaking natural formation carved by the Ottauquechee River. The gorge plunges over 165 feet deep, showcasing dramatic rock formations and cascading waterfalls. Visitors can access viewpoints from the roadside, offering stunning panoramas. For a closer look, stairs lead down to a sitting area right across from the main falls, providing an immersive experience of the water's power and sound. Reddit

Seasonal Beauty: The gorge is a spectacle in all four seasons. Spring brings rushing water, summer offers lush greenery, autumn paints the landscape in vibrant colors, and winter transforms it into a serene, snow-dusted wonderland. Each season provides a unique photographic opportunity and a different feel to the natural beauty. Reddit

Visitor Tips: Parking is available across the street from the falls. However, be mindful of unpaved sections that can become muddy after rain. Reddit While the area is beautiful, parents with young children should exercise caution due to the stairs and potential for unfenced drops. Reddit

The Art of Glassblowing at Simon Pearce

Adjacent to the natural beauty of Quechee Gorge lies the renowned Simon Pearce glassblowing studio and store. This location offers a fascinating glimpse into the craft of creating exquisite hand-blown glass. Visitors can often observe skilled artisans at work, transforming molten glass into elegant tableware, lighting, and decorative pieces. The process is mesmerizing, showcasing the precision and artistry involved in each creation. TikTok

The Simon Pearce store is a treasure trove of their signature products, perfect for finding unique souvenirs or gifts. Beyond the store, the on-site restaurant provides a memorable dining experience with scenic views of the Ottauquechee River. It's a perfect blend of artisanal craft, shopping, and culinary delight, making it a must-visit complement to the natural attractions. Reddit

Planning Your Visit: Check the Simon Pearce website for current glassblowing demonstration schedules and restaurant hours. Reservations for dining are highly recommended due to the establishment's popularity. Reddit

Quechee Covered Bridge: A New England Icon

The Quechee Covered Bridge is a quintessential New England landmark, spanning the Ottauquechee River. This historic structure offers a charming and picturesque scene, especially when framed by the natural beauty of the gorge and surrounding landscape. Walking or driving through the bridge provides a unique perspective and a sense of stepping back in time. Reddit

Photographic Gem: The bridge is a favorite subject for photographers, offering classic Vermont vistas. Its rustic charm and the scenic river views make it an ideal spot for capturing memorable images. Reddit The area around the bridge is easily accessible, making it a convenient stop for a quick photo opportunity or a leisurely stroll. Reddit

Historical Context: Covered bridges were built to protect the wooden trusses from the elements, ensuring their longevity. The Quechee Covered Bridge stands as a testament to this traditional New England architecture and continues to be a beloved local attraction. Reddit

You may also like

1 of 2