The Tacklebox is located in Bridport, Vermont, a quaint rural town nestled along the shores of Lake Champlain. The town is home to numerous dairy farms, contributing to the region’s renowned Vermont cheddar cheese. Enjoy the quintessential Vermont country landscape and farm-fresh goods.

Pratt’s Store (shop)

Your closest option for gas and groceries. Pratt’s deli shop and catering company offers artisanal local farm goods and freshly made take-out. Their take and bake macaroni and cheese is amazing! They have an impressive sandwich menu, our favorite is the Bridporter. If you’d like, you can browse their menu online and call in take-out orders for pick up.

Bridport Creamery (shop)

Bridport Creamery crafts farm-fresh cheese curds in a variety of delicious flavors, perfect for snacking or cooking. Their signature creation, Swisserella, is a must-try—we love it! Find their cheeses at local shops like Pratt’s or visit their charming farm shop on Lake St, within walking distance of the Tacklebox. Call ahead for hours.

Lake Side Market (shop)

Lake Side Market at Champlainside Farm is a seasonal farm stand offering local meats and vegetables. Just down the road from the Tacklebox on Lake St, this shop is run by a proud Cabot farm family, milking cows in scenic Bridport. Check their social accounts for seasonal updates.

The Bridge (restaurant)

The Bridge is a low key diner with good food. Your closest option for breakfast and lunch, a mere 10 minute drive from the cabin. They offer outside picnic table seating with views of the bridge to NY and the Lake Champlain. A convenient place to stop on your way to the Adirondacks; we recommend taking a scenic hike across the bridge if you have the time! Closed on Mondays and Tuesdays.

Defiance Hall by War Cannon Spirits (restaurant, bar)

One of your closest options for dinner and drinks is located just across the bridge, in Crown Point, NY. About a 20 minute drive from the Tacklebox. War Cannon Spirits is a local Champlain Valley distillery, crafting small batch spirits. Housed in a restored historic building, it offers a warm atmosphere and great cocktails. The menu features pizzas, BBQ sandwiches, and mac and cheese.

Middlebury, Vermont, is a picturesque New England town, home to Middlebury College. The town boasts charming downtown shops as well as excellent farm-to-table restaurants. The drive to Middlebury from the Tacklebox takes about 20 minutes. There’s plenty to do in Middlebury, more options than we will list here. Below are our favorites. 

Fire & Ice (restaurant)

Fire & Ice is a must visit! This beloved upscale restaurant is known for its quality food and interesting decor featuring historic memorabilia, including a vintage wooden boat. The place is as fun to look at as the food is to eat. They also have a pub onsite and outdoor dining. Closed on Mondays & Tuesdays.

American Flatbread at Middlebury Hearth (restaurant)

Delicious, wood-fired, flatbread pizzas made with fresh ingredients. Located inside a historic building within the Marble Works, a former marble processing center, now home to a variety of shops. The restaurant offers a vibrant cozy atmosphere; it’s a great place to gather for food and drinks. They have a popular courtyard area that’s open during warmer months. Closed on Sundays & Mondays.

Crooked Ladle (restaurant)

Located on Main St, this restaurant is run by a local catering company. Offering interesting and creative, high quality menu items. The restaurant has a welcoming atmosphere and a vibrant bar scene as well. Open for dinner Wednesday-Saturday. 

Jessica’s at the Swift House Inn (restaurant)

Fine dining set inside a beautifully restored inn from 1814. Jessica’s Restaurant provides an elegant, yet cozy experience. The French inspired menu features fresh, local ingredients. Pair your meal with a selection from their award-winning wine list or a cocktail from the bar. A bit on the pricier side, but it’s worth it. Open for dinner Thursday-Sunday. Reservations recommended.

Haymaker Bun Company (restaurant)

Located along the Otter Creek River in downtown Middlebury, this charming bakery and restaurant offers stunning views and great food! Serving wholesome and healthy breakfast and lunch options, along with an array of freshly baked goods. On weekends, they offer brunch and creative cocktails.

The Woodchuck Cidery (bar)

We highly recommend visiting this scenic cider house. You can tour the facility to see how their cider is made, and taste an impressive variety of fun flavors at the bar. They offer a few snacks, you can also bring your own. Check their site for hours. Enjoy!

Two Brother’s Tavern (restaurant, bar)

A charming pub on Main St, serving elevated comfort food. Excellent burgers and a large beer selection. The tavern is a popular spot for students and locals.

The Mad Taco (restaurant)

A small taco joint with a lovely outdoor seating area facing Otter Creek. Open for lunch and dinner, they serve delicious Mexican food and cocktails.

Sabai Sabai (restaurant)

Sabai Sabai offers affordable Thai and Japanese cuisine, including sushi. While it can get busy, it’s worth it for the quality eats. Closed on Mondays and Tuesdays.

Golden Rule Mead Cafe (bar)

This delightful mead tasting room is located inside a charming downtown house. If you appreciate craft brews and engaging in conversation about the process, stop in! You are likely to leave with a bottle or two.

Middlebury Marquis (theater, restaurant)

A great rainy day activity. This cozy community theater offers a unique movie experience with traditional seats in the back and fun, comfy sofas up front. More than just a theater, there’s also a cafe on site serving Southwestern inspired meals and drinks.

Middlebury Natural Foods Co-Op (shop)

While Middlebury has a few good grocery stores to choose from, this one is our favorite. Anyone can shop at the co-op. A fantastic spot for fresh, local, and organic groceries, perfect for stocking up during your stay.

Middlebury Bagel (restaurant, shop)

Some say the best bagels in Vermont are found right here in Middlebury! A great place to stop for breakfast or lunch, they are also known for their homemade doughnuts. This popular spot that can get busy from time to time. Closed on Thursdays & Sundays.

Noonie’s Deli (restaurant, shop)

Another local favorite, this deli is located inside the charming Marble Works District. Known for their incredible sandwiches and large portions. In the warmer months, you can enjoy your food in the nearby Riverfront Park with views of Middlebury Falls. Open for lunch Monday-Friday.

Vergennes is Vermont’s oldest and smallest city, brimming with charm and character. Stroll down Main Street to discover unique shops, cozy cafes, and delicious food. The drive to Vergennes from the Tacklebox takes about 25 minutes. 

Black Sheep Bistro (restaurant)

Black Sheep Bistro is is incredible. A French bistro-style experience with a charming, cozy ambiance. The menu features fresh and creative French inspired dishes made with locally sourced ingredients. Each meal delivers rich, elegant flavors. In the warmer months, they have plenty of outdoor sidewalk seating in scenic downtown Vergennes. Closed on Sundays & Mondays. Reservations recommended.

Park Squeeze (restaurant, bar)

A great bar and grill in the heart of downtown Vergennes with eclectic and fun decor. The seating area is upstairs. Known for their delicious burgers and upscale pub food. Great salads! It’s the perfect spot for a casual, yet high quality dinner or a quick drink. Closed on Sundays & Mondays.

Vergennes Laundry (cafe, bakery)

A charming French bakery and cafe. Known for their artisanal pastries, freshly baked bread, and excellent coffee! Serving breakfast and lunch. The have great healthy and gluten free options as well, all are delicious. Highly recommend. Open Thursday-Sunday.

3 Squares Cafe (restaurant)

Another great place for breakfast and lunch! Amazing pancakes, sandwiches, salads, etc. A casual and welcoming spot  with a friendly atmosphere. Worth a visit. Closed on Tuesdays.

Stone Block Antiques (shop)

A great find for antique lovers, offering a carefully curated selection of vintage furniture and home decor and well as an impressive variety of well priced art. They have a mix of high end pieces and more affordable finds too. Located in a historic building. A fun walk through.

Rockers Pizzeria (restaurant)

Rockers is a fun and casual rock n’ roll themed pizza place. They not only have great pizza, but also delicious sandwiches and salads as well as local craft beers. The interior has low key retro diner feel, with guitars and old photos on the walls. Open for lunch and dinner, closed on Sundays.

The Holt (restaurant)

A new family friendly restaurant located inside a history factory space. Great interior vibes! Serving fresh and affordable breakfast, lunch, and dinner via counter service. The eclectic menu features classics like deviled eggs and French toast in the morning, sandwiches during the day, and unexpected dinner options like tacos, falafel and curry. Closed on Wednesdays & Thursdays.

Lu Lu Ice Cream (shop, cafe)

Lu Lu is no ordinary ice cream shop! They offer an unforgettable mix of classic and adventurous flavors. Unexpected seasonal creations, like peanut curry and everything bagel ice cream, keep the menu exciting. In addition to scoops they have an espresso bar and serve baked goods, savory bites, and sandwiches until 2 PM. Closed on Mondays.

Lake Champlain Maritime Museum

Learn about the region’s rich nautical history. The museum offers interactive exhibits, replica vessels, and hands-on programs, allowing visitors to explore early shipbuilding and maritime life. They also offers boat rowing and shipwreck tours, providing a unique way to experience Lake Champlain. Perfect for history buffs and families alike, it’s a fun destination during the warmer months. Open May-October.

In the warmer months, enjoy fishing, paddling, or floating right from our private dock, with our tubes and loungers. We provide two kayaks and one canoe, which you can use to explore the lake.

For those into fishing, make the 12 minute drive to Norm’s Bait & Tackle. This local bait shop offers everything you need for a day on the water, plus fresh farm goods and seafood—including lobster.

Our sauna and soaking hot tub pair perfectly with lake life as you can easily incorporate a lake plunge into your steam routine!

As the seasons change, nearby hiking trails become ideal for leaf-peeping, and apple orchards offer classic fall fun. Whether you’re out on the water or exploring the vibrant autumn landscape, The Tacklebox is the perfect seasonal getaway!

ADK Area Guides | Antiques & Breweries