Arts & Culture
Aldrich Public Library
Endowed by Leonard Frost Aldrich in 1894, the Aldrich Library was constructed in 1907-08 in the Neo-Classical style. Major renovation in 1999-2000 provided full handicapped access and restoration of the historic interior. In addition to art exhibits, lectures, discussion groups, films and classes, the library houses 50,000 volumes, extensive large print, audio and video, and historic paintings and sculpture.
The Aldrich Library hosts many events. This summer they had “Authors by the Park” where authors came and read from their books. You can also participate in any of several book clubs and other events sponsored by the library. Visit the website for event information.
802-476-7550
www.aldrich.lib.vt.us
Vermont Granite Museum
Located within an authentic turn-of-the-cen
tury granite manufacturing plant, the museum’s mission is to create stimulating, interactive environments for learning about the geology, technology, history, and art of Vermont’s unique granite heritage art, industry, capabilities and cultural heritage
802-476-4605
www.granitemuseum.org
The Barre Opera House
Upon its completion in 1899 and in its early years, the Barre Opera House was deemed the finest theater in the state. After 40 years of disuse, a community effort began in the early 1980s to restore it to its former glory. The Opera House now boasts 25,000 visitors each year with state of the art sound and lighting. We host 60+ performances annually, from community events, to local theater and orchestra, to our own Celebration Series, which features well-known national and international acts.
802-476-0292
www.barreoperahouse.org
Barre Parks and Cemeteries
Our parks and cemeteries have been recognized in television programs, National Geographic Magazine, and on national tours as being an outstanding display of stone art. Tourists come to learn about the iconography, symbolism and beauty of our local monuments. Barre also has several beautiful outdoor sculptures, carved by Barre artists, which document our history.
802-476-6245
http://www.central-vt.com/web/hope/index.html
Old Labor Hall/Socialist Labor Party Hall
Built by volunteer members of the local Italian community in 1900, this National Historic Landmark served as a meeting place for unions in the early years of the American labor movement. Restoration began in 1994 and today the Labor Hall provides space for community events.
802-476-0567
www.oldlaborhall.com
Rock of Ages Visitor Center
Rock of Ages (ROA) gives tours of their local granite quarry and manufacturing plant, briefly explaining the history of the granite industry in Vermont and giving tourists an opportunity to understand our community and our local industry. Hands-on sandblast activity offers visitors an opportunity to experience the granite industry firsthand. Tours are offered Memorial Day weekend through mid-October.
802-476-3119
www.rockofages.com
Studio Place Arts
Studio Place Arts (SPA) is a vibrant, 3-floor visual arts center in historic 
downtown Barre. Visitors explore free exhibitions of a broad range of contemporary artwork by artists from Vermont and beyond. SPA hosts more than 20 original art exhibitions on its 3 floors throughout the year. Artists work in studios located on the second and third floors of the SPA building.
802-479-7069
www.studioplacearts.com
Vermont History Center
Home of the Vermont Historical Society. Thousands of visitors, students and 
researchers come to the renovated 1891 building each year to explore family genealogy, view artifacts in the Vermont Historical Society’s collections, and research Vermont’s rich history. The Vermont History Center houses a library of books, maps and pamphlets dating from the 1770s to present; a bookstore; and collections of 20,000 artifacts, ranging from Ethan Allen’s writings to the first television viewed in Vermont.
802-479-8515
www.vermonthistory.org
For other Arts events and locations feel free to visit: