Explore the Lake Champlain Bridge Heritage Area
Just over an hour’s drive from West Hill House B&B, the Lake Champlain Bridge Heritage Area offers a unique blend of history and natural beauty. Spanning 500 acres across Vermont and New York, this area is anchored by the 2011 Lake Champlain Bridge, a pedestrian- and bicycle-friendly structure that connects Chimney Point, Vermont, to Crown Point, New York. The bridge stands as a tribute to the original 1929 span, which served the region for 80 years before its closure and demolition in 2009 due to structural concerns.
The Lake Champlain Bridge Heritage Area is more than a historical site; it’s a destination for outdoor enthusiasts and history buffs alike. Whether you’re interested in exploring ancient ruins, enjoying scenic walks, or learning about the region’s past, there’s something for everyone. Better yet, if you’re coming from Upstate New York to Vermont, the Lake Champlain Bridge will just happen to be on your route.
As you drive through the scenic countryside, we’ll be awaiting your arrival at our bed and breakfast in Vermont. Our cozy and historic Inn is one of the best places in the Mad River Valley near Waitsfield. Tucked away on a quiet country drive, our nine-room bed and breakfast offers everything you need for a restful retreat. From welcoming hospitality and lovely shared spaces, indoor and out, to our delectable homemade breakfast each morning, you’ll love staying at our charming bed and breakfast in Vermont. Book your room today!Â
Explore the Lake Champlain Bridge Heritage Area
Whether you’re a history enthusiast or simply seeking a scenic day trip, the Lake Champlain Bridge Heritage Area offers a rich array of experiences that connect the past with the present. There are plenty of things to do near the bridge area on your scenic road trip from New York to Vermont; it’s a great place to stop off, stretch your legs, and learn more.Â
Here is all you need to know about the Lake Champlain Bridge Heritage Area:
- The Chimney Point State Historic Site is open from late May through Indigenous Peoples’ Day and offers exhibits on the area’s Native American, French colonial, and early American history.
- Explore the ruins of Fort St. Frédéric and His Majesty’s Fort at the Crown Point State Historic Site, both significant in 18th-century military history.
- Be sure to stop by the Lake Champlain Visitors Center, located in the historic toll collector’s house. The center provides information and exhibits about the 1929 bridge.
- The Champlain Memorial Lighthouse was initially built in 1858 and served as a navigational aid for the narrow lake passage between New York and Vermont. It has since been transformed into a memorial, and the lighthouse features a sculpture by Auguste Rodin.
- If you pop out to explore this impressive bridge on foot, interpretive signs on both sides of the structure provide context and history as you explore the area. The bridge is open for both pedestrian and cycle traffic.Â
More Landmarks: Iconic Vermont Covered Bridges
If scenic drives and historic bridge architecture catch your eye, you’ll love exploring Vermont’s iconic covered bridges. There are more than a dozen beautiful bridges within a short drive of our B&B, including the popular Waitsfield Village Bridge and the picture-perfect Pine Brook Bridge. Each one offers a glimpse into 19th-century craftsmanship and the quiet beauty of Vermont’s rural roads.
Whether on a leisurely drive through the Mad River Valley or piecing together a self-guided tour, this driving guide makes it easy to find the area’s most photogenic bridges. Pair the experience with local farmstands, cafes, and panoramic views, and you’ve got a memorable day trip. It’s a relaxing way to enjoy Vermont’s charm—one bridge at a time.
Welcome "Home" at our Bed and Breakfast in Vermont
Located in the quiet village of Warren, our bed and breakfast in Vermont offers a genuinely personal and welcoming experience curated by friendly and knowledgeable innkeepers. Owners Peter and Susan are seasoned travelers who have transformed their historic 1850s home into a peaceful retreat where guests are treated like family. Whether arriving via the Lake Champlain Bridge from New York or elsewhere, you’ll feel the genuine warmth and thoughtful attention to detail that defines a stay at the West Hill House B&B.
Our location sets the stage for relaxation and exploration. Tucked into the Mad River Valley and surrounded by the Green Mountains, our cozy Inn feels worlds away—yet it’s just minutes from the slopes of Sugarbush, scenic hiking trails, covered bridges, and charming small towns. The gardens are as peaceful as can be in spring and summer, while fall is iconic with the colorful foliage, and winter brings a snowy stillness perfect for cozy fireside moments.Â
Inside, nine individually decorated guest rooms offer classic New England charm with modern comforts. Plush beds, ensuite baths (some with jetted tubs), and gas fireplaces create a cozy home base. Mornings begin with a hearty three-course breakfast, crafted from local ingredients and served in the sunny dining room. In the evening, relax in the living room with a glass of wine, borrow a book from the library, or chat with Peter and Susan about the best places to explore. Everything about our bed and breakfast in Vermont is designed to help you unwind, making it the ultimate escape in Vermont. Book your room today!Â
