It’s tough to find two more quintessentially New England towns than Grafton and Lower Waterford, VT, and when it comes to a Norman Rockwell inspired New England holiday towns, these are two very special places. We continue our blog series on holiday festivities today with a look at two of the Distinctive Inns of New England’s holiday happenings. Plan your holiday romantic getaway to one of these beautiful Vermont inns and get in on both a special time with the one you love and holiday festivities too. We started our blog series last week with a wrap up of holiday fun at DINE’s Massachusetts inns. Next we moved on to special packages and offers from DINE’s New Hampshire inns. Today, we’re taking you to Grafton, VT and Lower Waterford, VT for a look at some of the holiday getaways to remember.
At Grafton Inn in Grafton, VT
Come to Grafton this December for some holiday cheer, shopping, and delicious food. You’ll jump start the holidays while supporting the town’s small local businesses. From cheeses and wonderful New England made decor and gifts to books and more, Grafton is a wonderful place to find the perfect gift for that hard to shop for person.
If outdoor adventure is more your thing, the Grafton Trails & Outdoor Center is a great choice. Go hike the trails and stop by the cabin to learn more about the Center’s outdoor activities for the 2022/2023 season. 
The Grafton Inn is a very special place to behold during the holidays. Imagine decorated trees and sleighs, warm crackling fires, delicious meals and more. The inn’s Giving Tree is always a way to create a special Christmas for a local family too. Plan to get in on Christmas in Grafton celebrations topped off with dinner and a getaway to the Grafton Inn. It’s the ideal way to find unique holiday gifts and relax during the holidaze.
At Rabbit Hill Inn in Lower Waterford, VT
Setting up the Christmas tree, cut at The Rocks, at Rabbit Hill Inn.
The Rabbit Hill Inn lies just a few miles from the New Hampshire border, just over the line in Vermont. That places it within an easy drive of one of America’s most iconic holiday towns, Bethlehem, NH. Bring your holiday cards with you when you stay at Rabbit Hill Inn and visit Bethlehem. They’ll be postmarked from Bethlehem, giving them a special touch this holiday season.
Save your tree cutting for your visit to the Rabbit Hill Inn, combined with a trip to The Rocks, where you can choose then cut your own tree on this 1,400-acre tree farm, now home to the North Country Conservation & Education Center for the Forest Society. Here you’ll find trees of all sizes which you can choose and cut on your own, plus beautifully decorated wreaths for sale too. Carriage rides are offered here too on a first come, first served on weekends (Saturdays and Sundays) from Saturday, November 26 through Saturday, December 17. Looking for an outdoor activity? The trail system at The Rocks is open daily to visitors.
Your tree will be baled and made ready to carry back to the Rabbit Hill Inn and then home. Remember to get back to the inn in time for afternoon tea and then dinner in the beautiful fire-lit dining room. Relax fireside in the parlor, enjoying one of the many Stave puzzles that guests here love. Make reservations for your holiday stay in advance as this is a lovely time to visit Lower Waterford, VT and rooms fill up.
Come the Weekend of Dec 8-10 and plan to get in on the Saint Johnsbury Sparkles Holiday Weekend. Located just 10 minutes from the Rabbit Hill Inn, take advantage of shops staying open late for holiday shopping. Fire pits along Main Street, Handbell Ensemble performances, and a holiday concert at the historic St. Johnsbury Atheneum will add to the holiday spirit. A fireworks display will also light the night on Friday night!
Next we’ll move on to Maine and Connecticut to review holiday festivities. Remember, when you book your DINE getaway, skip the online travel sites and book directly with the inn.
In Vermont: Rabbit Hill Inn in Lower Waterford & Grafton Inn in Grafton
In New Hampshire: Manor on Golden Pond in Holderness & Chesterfield Inn in West Chesterfield
In Connecticut: Inn at Harbor Hill Marina in Niantic
In Massachusetts: Harbor Light Inn in Marblehead, Deerfield Inn in Historic Deerfield and Captain’s House Inn in Chatham on Cape Cod
In Maine: Inn at English Meadows in Kennebunkport.
In Vermont: Rabbit Hill Inn in Lower Waterford & Grafton Inn in Grafton