MONTPELIER — Vermont State Historic Sites opened on a limited basis the week of July 1. In Addison County and the surrounding area, Mount Independence State Historic Site in Orwell, Hubbardton Battlefield in Hubbardton and Chimney Point in Addison opened on July 1.
The sites will operate in accordance with the Governor’s Be Smart, Stay Safe Executive Order and the Agency of Commerce and Community Development guidance. Visitors must wear masks or facial coverings in buildings and when in the presence of others outdoors. Due to social distancing requirements, some spaces will not be open to visitors. Events will be limited this year, so check the website as part of trip planning at historicsites.vermont.gov.
Visitors are encouraged to take advantage of the recreational activities available at many of the Historic Sites, including interpretive trails, hiking trails and walkable gardens. Many sites also include hundreds of acres of preserved forest and farmland, architecturally and historically significant buildings, and museum collections and educational exhibits. 
Vermont’s Underwater Historic Preserves of Lake Champlain also opened to the diving public on July 1. The preserves are managed in partnership with the Lake Champlain Maritime Museum. See their website for guidelines and registration at lcmm.org/archaeology/vermont-underwater-historic-preserves. Taken together, these sites tell the story of our region from the first inhabitants who settled the area approximately 9,000 years ago through to early-20th-century life.
Days of operation at historic sites have been altered for this season and additional changes are possible. For up-to-date information, go to historicsites.vermont.gov, or call (802) 828-3051.