I've Visited Vermont for 20 Years and This Is Its Most Underrated Town-With a Historic Creamery and Green Mountain Charm

"Measuring in at just 38 square miles and with a population of 664, the town of Grafton is, by most measures, small. But its petiteness-paired with picture-perfect storybook good looks-is what makes it one of the most compelling places to visit in the Green Mountain State, and arguably, the East Coast. Located firmly off the beaten path and with strong roots that champion the local community, Grafton is the perfect place to disconnect from the rest of the world."

"Founded in 1892 by dairy farmers who were looking to make use of their surplus raw milk, Grafton Village Cheese paved the way for the hard cheddar cheese industry in the U.S. Sadly, the original factory was destroyed in 1912. In the 1960s, The Windham Foundation (a philanthropic organization dedicated to preserving and uplifting rural life in Vermont) restored the property and company-in turn, the massive project revitalized the town."

Grafton occupies 38 square miles and has a population of 664. The town is intentionally maintained with underground utilities to preserve a postcard village appearance. The Windham Foundation financed preservation efforts that restored properties and revitalized the community. Grafton Village Cheese, founded in 1892 by dairy farmers, helped pioneer the U.S. hard cheddar industry; the original factory burned in 1912 and the company and property were restored in the 1960s. The creamery offers samples and a viewing room; the viewing area operates seven days a week, with cheese-making visible most weekdays from 9 a.m. to 2 p.m.

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