Historic Downtown

Bellows Falls

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A wood covered bridge across a river underneath a blue sky.

A quiet downtown street at sunset. The pink sky reflects a warm glow on the street.

Beautiful, Strong, and Full of Heart

Bellows Falls, Vermont 

Arts, culture, and Vermont heritage meet in Bellows Falls, the site of the first covered bridge built across the rushing Connecticut River and one of the first canals built in the U.S. In town, a restored opera house brings in entertainment year-round, and the downtown and surrounding area are home to hyperlocal shopping and dining. 

Top Attractions

Mill history and a deep dive into the species that call Bellows Falls Canal home add depth to a visit.

Rockingham Meeting House

The largest intact 18th-century meeting house in Vermont, this beautiful and historic building stands tall in the forest in Rockingham. During the summer and fall, the building is open to the public.

The Frank Adams Grist Mill

Immerse yourself in 19th century mill history in this museum filled with tools and machinery unique to Bellows Falls.

Riverfront Park and Trail

A riverfront walking trail leads to boat launches and beautiful views of the Connecticut River, along with large natural stones with evocative names like Poet’s Seat.

Bellows Falls Fish Ladder

Learn about Connecticut River ecology and see the fish ladder and the local species.

Oak Hill Trails

This four-mile, 12-trail network is easily accessible from Rockingham, offering trails for mountain biking and hiking with a total vertical of almost 500 feet.

Bellows Falls Opera House

Cozy movie theater with a 1926 six-story clock tower. showcasing contemporary films, plus classic movie nights every other Wednesday.

A group of children look at images of wildlife on a wall.

The fish ladder at a dam seen from above.

Attraction Spotlight

Bellows Falls Fish Ladder

Whether you’re curious about migrating fish species or want to learn more about how fish ladders work, The Bellows Falls Fish Ladder and Visitor Center is a place to learn, explore, and experience a unique perspective of the Connecticut River.

Bellows Falls Fish Ladder

Seen from below, a large brick clock against a blue sky.

Brick building line both sides of a two lane road in a rural downtown.

Event Spotlight

The Bellows Falls Festival

Live music echoes from the mountains and reverberates across the Connecticut River at the annual summertime Bellows Falls Festival. Visitors can also enjoy a beer tent and food trucks to round out a summer day.

The Bellows Falls Festival

Eat, Shop, and Stay in Bellows Falls

Dining

Shopping

Lodging

Transportation Options

For Bellows Falls

Amtrak Station

54 Depot Street
Bellows Falls, VT 05101

Local Transportation

Bus services  The Moover