Food

Mad River Barn, Waitsfield, Vermont

Located 1.7 miles from Mad River Glen, Mad River Barn is a destination for skiers (and non-skiers like me) alike. The current owners, Andrew and Heather, underwent a huge renovation, and they’re about to experience their first foliage season with the inn and restaurant. Mad River Barn is really gorgeous and, in my opinion, is one of the best-kept secrets of the Mad River Valley. Word hasn’t gotten out yet how welcoming, warm and rustic, yet classy, the place is. We haven’t stayed at the Mad River Barn just yet but are hoping to in the coming weeks (check out their sweet bunk rooms for if you just need a bed).

Visiting Mad River Barn in Waitsfield

The bar area, with plenty of seating both at the bar itself, next to the big stone fireplace and in the upstairs game room—complete with an antique shuffleboard and foosball for the kid in you—is comfortable and inviting. It’s likely no surprise, the bar area is where we’ve spent most of our time while at Mad River Barn on a few recent rainy weekend afternoons. The bartender, Jerry, has lived in the Valley for many years and is one of those bartenders to befriend to get more tips for travelling like a local in Waitsfield and Warren.

According to their website,

The Mad River Barn has been a fixture in the Mad River Valley for many years. We’ve been told it began its commercial operation as a bunk house for the Civilian Conservation Corps in the 1930’s. It was converted to an Inn in late 1940’s or early 1950’s by Les and Alice Billings, before it was acquired by the founders of Mad River Glen in the late 1970’s. Betsy Pratt took over operations of the Barn following her husband’s passing, and ran it until December 31st, 2012, when she sold it to Andrew and Heather Lynds.

Mad River Barn Inn & Restaurant

2849 Mill Brook Rd, Waitsfield, VT 05673
802.496.3310