Simon Pearce Mill
Historic mill turned artisan glassblowing studio & restaurant, powered by a waterfall. Stunning views & handcrafted beauty.
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Best views & glassblowing
Simon Pearce Mill
Best Time
Best views & glassblowing
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Historic mill turned artisan glassblowing studio & restaurant, powered by a waterfall. Stunning views & handcrafted beauty.
"Phenomenal atmosphere! The food was delicious!! Our waitress was super sweet as well."
Reserve for Dinner
Reservations are highly recommended for the restaurant, especially for dinner. :forkandknife:
Watch the Artisans
Don't miss the mesmerizing glassblowing demonstrations happening throughout the day. :sparkler:
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
Live Glassblowing Studio
Lower Level
Witness skilled artisans transform molten glass into stunning handcrafted pieces. Mesmerizing to watch!
Ottauquechee River Waterfall
Overlooking the river
A picturesque waterfall powering the mill, offering beautiful views from the restaurant and surrounding areas.
The Mill at Simon Pearce Restaurant
Upper Level
Savor refined American cuisine with breathtaking views of the waterfall and covered bridge. Reservations advised.
Simon Pearce Flagship Store
Upper Level
Browse exquisite, handcrafted glassware and tableware, perfect for unique souvenirs or gifts.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Timing is Everything for Views & Glassblowing
Beyond the Glass: Dining & Shopping
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
Reserve for Dinner
Reservations are highly recommended for the restaurant, especially for dinner. :forkandknife:
Watch the Artisans
Don't miss the mesmerizing glassblowing demonstrations happening throughout the day. :sparkler:
Daylight for Views
Visit during the day to fully enjoy the scenic waterfall and covered bridge views. :camera:
Explore the Store
The retail store offers stunning handcrafted glassware and tableware. :gift:
Tips
from all over the internet
Reserve for Dinner
Reservations are highly recommended for the restaurant, especially for dinner. :forkandknife:
Watch the Artisans
Don't miss the mesmerizing glassblowing demonstrations happening throughout the day. :sparkler:
Daylight for Views
Visit during the day to fully enjoy the scenic waterfall and covered bridge views. :camera:
Explore the Store
The retail store offers stunning handcrafted glassware and tableware. :gift:
Consider Appetizers
Appetizers like cheddar soup and cheese plates are highly recommended. :cheese_wedge:
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Visitors consistently praise the stunning atmosphere, the mesmerizing glassblowing demonstrations, and the delicious food at The Mill at Simon Pearce. The scenic views of the waterfall and the historic mill add to the overall charm. While generally positive, some find the restaurant to be pricey and occasionally note minor issues with food temperature or drink selection.
"My husband and I have been here twice now, the first time for dinner and the second time this weekend as a birthday celebration lunch. It’s a bit of a trek for us so it had been a while but we did remember that we’d thoroughly enjoyed our first time there and loved the food.
We definitely recommend going while there’s still daylight. The restaurant sits above a small dam and the view is so pretty. The lower level is a glassblowing facility that you can actually view while they’re working and it’s so interesting to watch. Above that is their store, selling mostly glass goods. Everything is absolutely stunning.
The food was, as remembered, phenomenal. My only criticism is that the bread was cold and I think it would have benefited from being warmed before serving. Definitely leave room for dessert!"
Em Cha
"Phenomenal atmosphere! The food was delicious!! Our waitress was super sweet as well. I also enjoyed shopping around in the retail section of the store. They also have a space downstairs where you can watch people hand blow glass. Very cool! Would definitely go back!"
Shelby Hudson
"Nice to go your the place and have a meal. Amazing to see the glass blowing and happens all day long which is nice. Went to the restaurant as well. Was pretty good but definitely pricey and food was good but not crazy. Overall had a good experience- nice service and great atmosphere. Enjoyed cheddar soup, calamri, and tar tar."
Michele Guttermuth
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
Simon Pearce Mill is located in Quechee, Vermont. It's accessible by car, and many visitors combine a trip with nearby attractions like Quechee Gorge. Parking is available on-site.
Yes, Simon Pearce Mill is a short drive from White River Junction, making it a convenient stop for those exploring the Upper Valley region of Vermont.
Driving is the most common and convenient way to reach Quechee, Vermont, especially if you plan to explore the surrounding New England area.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
No, general admission to the Simon Pearce Mill, including the glassblowing studio viewing area and the store, is free. Reservations are recommended for the restaurant.
The mill, store, and glassblowing studio typically operate during daylight hours, while the restaurant has specific lunch and dinner hours. It's best to check their official website for the most current hours.
Absolutely! Simon Pearce Mill is renowned for its live glassblowing demonstrations, which you can observe from a dedicated viewing area.
There is no admission fee to watch the glassblowing artisans at work. It's a complimentary experience for all visitors.
🍽️ 🍽️ Food & Dining
The Mill at Simon Pearce Restaurant serves refined American cuisine with a focus on seasonal, locally sourced ingredients. They are known for dishes like cheddar soup and lamb. +1
Yes, reservations are highly recommended for The Mill at Simon Pearce, especially for dinner, to ensure you get a table.
Popular choices include the cheddar soup, cheese plate, and the lamb. Many visitors also rave about the desserts. +1
Drink preferences can vary; some guests found the drinks not to their taste if they prefer sweeter options, while others enjoyed the experience of drinking from their own glassware.
📸 📸 Photography
Great photo opportunities include the waterfall, the historic mill building, the covered bridge nearby, and the beautifully crafted glassware in the store. 
Yes, you can generally take photos inside the glassblowing studio, but be mindful of the artisans at work and avoid flash photography that might disrupt them.
Simon Pearce Mill is considered a big destination in autumn, with the surrounding New England foliage adding to the scenic beauty.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
The scenic waterfall and nearby covered bridge also offer pleasant spots for exploration and photos. While the restaurant can be a bit formal and pricey for very young children, families can enjoy browsing the store and watching the artisans. Consider visiting during daylight hours for the best overall experience. For a more casual experience, families might opt to enjoy the views and the glassblowing studio without dining at the restaurant. Packing snacks and drinks can be helpful, especially if you plan to spend a good amount of time exploring the grounds and the store. The unique nature of the mill and its crafts can spark curiosity and provide lasting memories for younger visitors.
💍 Couples & Romantic Getaways
Beyond dining, couples can enjoy a leisurely stroll through the flagship store, admiring the handcrafted glassware, or take a walk across the nearby covered bridge. The combination of artisanal craftsmanship, natural beauty, and fine dining makes it an ideal destination for a romantic day trip or a special evening out in Vermont.
🛍️ Shoppers & Art Enthusiasts
Art enthusiasts will be captivated by the live glassblowing demonstrations. Witnessing the creation of these beautiful objects firsthand offers a deeper appreciation for the artistry and labor involved. The historic mill setting itself, with its industrial charm and scenic location, adds to the overall aesthetic appeal for art lovers.
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
The Art of Glassblowing at Simon Pearce
+1The artisans at Simon Pearce are masters of their craft, meticulously shaping each piece with precision and artistry. The process is mesmerizing to watch, as they manipulate the fiery glass with tools and breath, turning raw material into elegant forms. Many visitors find this aspect of the mill to be a highlight of their visit, offering a unique glimpse into a time-honored skill.
The inspiration for their designs often draws from nature, reflecting the surrounding Vermont landscape. This connection to the environment is not only evident in the aesthetic of the glassware but also in the mill's sustainable operation, powered by the river's natural energy.
Dining with a View: The Mill at Simon Pearce
+1The menu features refined American cuisine, with an emphasis on seasonal and locally sourced ingredients. While the food is generally well-received, with highlights like cheddar soup and tender lamb, some guests note that it can be pricey. It's advisable to make reservations, particularly for dinner, to secure a table and fully enjoy the experience.
Complementing the dining experience is the opportunity to use Simon Pearce's own glassware and pottery, adding a tactile element to the meal. The heavy, solid feel of the glassware is often noted by patrons.
The Historic Mill and Its Surroundings
+1The surrounding area offers further visual appeal. Mill Pond Falls, adjacent to the mill, provides a constant, soothing backdrop. The nearby covered bridge is another iconic New England landmark, perfect for photos and a stroll. Many visitors find the combination of the mill, the waterfall, and the covered bridge to be a quintessential Vermont experience.
+1This historic setting is particularly stunning in autumn, when the New England foliage adds vibrant colors to the landscape, making it a popular destination for leaf-peepers and photographers alike.
Social
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit