Entry 69: Exploring History in the Green Mountain State: Calvin Coolidge State Historic Site

Recently I had the privilege of visiting Vermont with a couple of friends – big shout out to Drew and Brett! I have a lot to share, but our first stop was the Calvin Coolidge State Historic Site in Plymouth Notch, Vermont.

The Calvin Coolidge State Historic Site is more than just a tribute to the 30th President of the United States—it's a step back in time. Located about 10 miles south of Woodstock, the site includes Coolidge’s birthplace, boyhood home, and the room where he took the presidential oath of office in 1923 following the death of President Harding. The homestead is fully restored to its early 20th-century appearance, featuring original furnishings, personal artifacts, and a palpable sense of historic simplicity.

Plymouth Notch, the village Coolidge called home, remains virtually unchanged since his time. Walking through the general store, church, cheese factory, and schoolhouse, you get a rare glimpse into the rural American life of the early 1900s.

The Coolidge Museum and Education Center is a gem for history buffs, with exhibits detailing Coolidge’s quiet but impactful presidency, his famously reserved personality, and the political issues of the era. Right next door, the Plymouth Cheese Factory, founded by Coolidge’s father in 1890, still produces cheese using traditional methods (it was unfortunately closed during our visit, but still worth a stop!).

A short walk away is the Coolidge Family Cemetery, where President Coolidge rests in peace under a simple granite marker. The entire site offers guided tours, educational programs, and seasonal events—and while most buildings are open from late May through mid-October, we were lucky enough to catch one of the special winter openings.

Vermont Fun Fact: Vermont has banned billboards since 1968 to preserve its scenic beauty—and trust me, it works. Vermont is absolutely gorgeous!

Other Things to Do in the Area

• Woodstock, Vermont – Charming downtown with boutiques, cafes, and the Billings Farm & Museum

• Quechee Gorge – Known as “Vermont’s Little Grand Canyon,” a great spot for hiking and views

• Marsh-Billings-Rockefeller National Historical Park – The only national park to focus on conservation history

• Killington Ski Area – If you’re visiting in winter, Vermont’s biggest ski resort is nearby

• Long Trail Brewery – A perfect stop for local craft beer with mountain views

Family-Friendly Places to Eat Nearby

• Worthy Kitchen (Woodstock) – Casual farm-to-table burgers and bowls

• Mountain Creamery (Woodstock) – Homestyle breakfasts, sandwiches, and homemade pies

• Ramunto’s Brick & Brew Pizza (Bridgewater) – Kid-friendly and relaxed with great pizza

#vermont #vermonttourism #historicsite #presidentcoolidge #mikeisoutside #visitvermont #greenmountainstate #vermontnature #vermontscenery #nobillboards #travelvermont #explorevermont #vermonttravel #onlyinvermont