Looking for things to do this weekend. Here is a list of things that are worthy of adding to your weekend plans

Our area is gearing up for a bustling season of local history, outdoor recreation, and cultural events across Bennington County and nearby towns. Whether you are planning a stroll through Old Bennington or exploring new regional museum exhibits, local residents and visitors have plenty to look forward to in the coming months.

New Exhibits and Summer Highlights in Bennington

According to the Bennington Museum, a major new exhibition titled “Vermont Vice” will run from May 30 to Nov. 2, 2026, in the Limric and Parmelee Galleries. The display explores historic vices in the state, including gambling, rum running, and illicit shows, featuring items recently acquired from the former Green Mountain Racetrack in Pownal.

Visitors to the museum can also view the world’s largest public collection of Grandma Moses paintings. Summer hours at the museum run daily from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m., except Wednesdays, with extended hours until 7 p.m. on summer Fridays.

Community Gatherings and Regional Arts

In nearby Arlington, organizers are preparing for The OM Festival, scheduled for July 30 through Aug. 2, 2026, at the West Mountain Inn. According to festival organizers, the four-day gathering will feature over 100 yoga, meditation, and dance classes, along with farm-to-table dinners, guided hikes, and live music.

Arts and history lovers can also explore several surrounding destinations across our region, including:

• Bennington Battle Monument: The historic 306-foot stone structure in Old Bennington commemorates the pivotal 1777 Revolutionary War battle.
• Old First Church: Located in Old Bennington, the 1805 church grounds include the resting place of poet Robert Frost.
• Park-McCullough Historic Estate: Situated in North Bennington, the Victorian estate features walking paths through the surrounding Mile-Around Woods.
• Regional Museums: Nearby attractions include The Clark Art Institute in Williamstown, MASS MoCA in North Adams, and Hildene in Manchester.

Outdoor Trails and Local Dining

For outdoor enthusiasts, local trails offer varied options for all skill levels. Hikers can take the stone stairs off Route 9 up to Harmon Hill for expansive views overlooking Bennington, or walk the two-mile Robert Frost Stone House Trail connecting Shaftsbury to Lake Paran.

After a day outdoors, residents and visitors can enjoy local dining spots ranging from quick bites at Vermont Chef on Main Street or the Blue Benn Diner to fine dining options at Pangaea and the Four Chimneys Inn.

How This Affects You

With seasonal exhibits opening and regional festivals on the calendar, local businesses and cultural sites in our community are ready to welcome neighbors and travelers. Checking venue schedules in advance can help residents make the most of the upcoming season.

Sources

• Vermont Vice – Bennington Museum | Grandma Moses | Vermont History and Art
• OM Festival schedule – The OM Festival Vermont
• The OM Festival FAQ’s – The OM Festival Vermont
• THE 15 BEST Things to Do in Bennington (2026)
• Things to Do in Bennington | Vermont Tourism
• Bennington, VT: All You Must Know Before You Go (2026) – Tripadvisor

This article was produced with the assistance of AI and reviewed by our editorial team.