Cities in Windsor County, Vermont

by btobers · Published November 10, 2022 · Updated November 13, 2024

Windsor County, Vermont, located in southeastern Vermont along the Connecticut River, is known for its historical significance, scenic valleys, and quaint New England towns. Established in 1781, the county played a pivotal role in Vermont’s early statehood. Windsor, known as the birthplace of Vermont’s constitution, captures much of this history. Windsor County’s economy has long been supported by agriculture, forestry, and manufacturing, with modern tourism drawing visitors for its natural beauty and outdoor recreation. From historic Woodstock to the mountain town of Ludlow, Windsor County offers a mix of cultural landmarks and outdoor activities.

County Facts:

Population: Approximately 57,000
County Seat: Woodstock
Cities and Towns: 24, including incorporated towns and villages

List of Cities and Towns in Windsor County, Vermont

1. Woodstock

Year Founded: 1761
Population: Approximately 3,000
Population Density: 600 people per square mile
Area Code: 802
Elevation: 705 feet

Woodstock, the county seat, is celebrated for its picturesque village green, historic architecture, and natural surroundings. Set along the Ottauquechee River, Woodstock is known for its classic New England feel, with covered bridges, boutique shops, and art galleries. U.S. Route 4 and State Routes 12 and 106 make Woodstock accessible from all directions.

Things to Do:
Woodstock’s top attractions include Marsh-Billings-Rockefeller National Historical Park, Vermont’s only national park, and the Billings Farm & Museum, which showcases the area’s agricultural history. Visitors can shop in the village’s historic downtown, explore scenic trails in the surrounding hills, or visit the town’s covered bridges. Annual events like the Harvest Festival draw crowds for local food and crafts, while nearby trails and rivers offer outdoor adventures year-round.

2. Windsor

Year Founded: 1761
Population: Approximately 3,500
Population Density: 700 people per square mile
Area Code: 802
Elevation: 600 feet

Windsor, historically known as the “birthplace of Vermont,” is rich in colonial history, with landmarks like the Old Constitution House where Vermont’s first constitution was signed. Located along the Connecticut River, Windsor is accessible via U.S. Route 5 and Interstate 91.

Things to Do:
Windsor’s attractions include the American Precision Museum, which chronicles Vermont’s role in manufacturing, and the Cornish-Windsor Covered Bridge, one of the longest covered bridges in the U.S. Mount Ascutney is nearby, providing trails and scenic views of the Connecticut River Valley. Windsor’s downtown features artisan shops, cafes, and galleries, giving it a vibrant cultural feel.

3. Springfield

Year Founded: 1761
Population: Approximately 9,000
Population Density: 550 people per square mile
Area Code: 802
Elevation: 571 feet

Springfield, located along the Black River, was historically an industrial town known for machine tool manufacturing. It is one of Windsor County’s larger towns, with a mix of residential neighborhoods, parks, and historic sites. State Routes 11 and 106 provide easy access to nearby towns.

Things to Do:
Springfield’s attractions include the Hartness House Inn, a historic mansion, and the Eureka Schoolhouse, one of Vermont’s oldest one-room schoolhouses. The Toonerville Rail Trail provides a scenic walking and biking route along the Black River, while Muckross State Park offers hiking trails. The Vermont Apple Festival celebrates local agriculture with food, games, and crafts.

4. Ludlow

Year Founded: 1761
Population: Approximately 2,000
Population Density: 400 people per square mile
Area Code: 802
Elevation: 1,100 feet

Ludlow is best known for Okemo Mountain Resort, a popular ski destination. Located in the Green Mountains, Ludlow offers year-round recreation. U.S. Route 103 runs through the town, providing access to surrounding areas and winter resorts.

Things to Do:
In winter, Okemo Mountain Resort offers skiing and snowboarding, while summer brings hiking and mountain biking opportunities. Ludlow’s downtown has a variety of local shops and cafes, and the Black River runs through town, offering fishing and kayaking. Seasonal events include the Fall Foliage Festival, where visitors can enjoy Vermont’s famous autumn colors.

5. Norwich

Year Founded: 1761
Population: Approximately 3,400
Population Density: 120 people per square mile
Area Code: 802
Elevation: 520 feet

Norwich, located along the Connecticut River across from Hanover, New Hampshire, is a charming town with a historic district and close ties to Dartmouth College. U.S. Route 5 connects Norwich to nearby communities.

Things to Do:
Norwich’s Farmers Market is a popular local event, offering fresh produce, crafts, and local foods. The Montshire Museum of Science, just across the river, provides family-friendly exhibits. The town has a network of trails for hiking and biking, and scenic views along the Connecticut River add to its appeal.

6. Hartland

Year Founded: 1761
Population: Approximately 3,000
Population Density: 100 people per square mile
Area Code: 802
Elevation: 700 feet

Hartland is a rural town known for its agricultural roots and natural landscapes along the Connecticut River. Its peaceful environment is ideal for those seeking countryside views and recreational activities.

Things to Do:
Hartland’s covered bridges, including the Willard Twin Covered Bridge, add to its New England charm. The town offers hiking trails and riverside spots for fishing and kayaking. Annual events include the Hartland Christmas Project, a community celebration, and the local Farmers Market.

7. Cavendish

Year Founded: 1761
Population: Approximately 1,400
Population Density: 90 people per square mile
Area Code: 802
Elevation: 900 feet

Cavendish is known for its peaceful rural atmosphere and historical connection to Russian author Aleksandr Solzhenitsyn. The town offers quiet, small-town charm with arts, history, and scenic countryside.

Things to Do:
Visitors can explore the Cavendish Historical Society Museum, with exhibits on local and global history. The nearby Black River provides fishing spots and picnic areas, while trails offer hiking and nature walks. Cavendish hosts an annual Solzhenitsyn Celebration in honor of the author.

8. Bethel

Year Founded: 1779
Population: Approximately 2,000
Population Density: 150 people per square mile
Area Code: 802
Elevation: 740 feet

Bethel, located along the White River, is known for its scenic landscapes and historical buildings. The town serves as a gateway to outdoor adventures and is accessible via State Route 12 and Interstate 89.

Things to Do:
Bethel offers recreational activities such as kayaking and fishing along the White River. The town’s historic Bethel Mills provides insight into Vermont’s early industries, while nearby hiking trails are ideal for outdoor enthusiasts. The Bethel Harvest Festival celebrates local food, art, and crafts.

List of Communities in Windsor County, Vermont

1. Bridgewater

Year Founded: 1761
Population: Approximately 900
Population Density: 40 people per square mile
Area Code: 802
Elevation: 800 feet

Bridgewater, located between Woodstock and Killington, offers a quiet rural atmosphere with access to hiking trails and the Ottauquechee River.

2. Reading

Year Founded: 1761
Population: Approximately 700
Population Density: 30 people per square mile
Area Code: 802
Elevation: 860 feet

Reading is a small farming community known for its countryside charm and outdoor activities, with local hiking trails and historical farms.

3. Plymouth

Year Founded: 1761
Population: Approximately 600
Population Density: 25 people per square mile
Area Code: 802
Elevation: 1,300 feet

Plymouth, birthplace of President Calvin Coolidge, is home to the Calvin Coolidge State Historic Site, preserving the legacy of the former president in a scenic rural setting.

4. Weathersfield

Year Founded: 1761
Population: Approximately 2,800
Population Density: 60 people per square mile
Area Code: 802
Elevation: 1,100 feet

Weathersfield is known for its scenic views of Mount Ascutney and historic architecture. The town offers hiking trails, historic landmarks, and peaceful rural landscapes.