Monday Meals at Chipman Inn (Because on Mondays You Just Want Someone Else to Cook)
by Elizabeth on April 01, 2025
Let's take a moment to appreciate Jessica's Restaurant at Swift House Inn, where the delectable meals are nothing short of magical. We're fortunate to have them so close to Chipman Inn, especially since one of their talented breakfast cooks lives just beyond the maple hill behind our own inn. His passion for cooking ignited when he was just 14 years old in Turkey working in restaurants, and since moving to the United States, his eagerness to spend time in the kitchen has only grown.
So when I floated the idea of serving food here at Chipman Inn on Mondays—just Mondays, for now—he was all in. And that’s how Monday Meals began.
We’re now offering lunch and dinner every Monday from noon to 8pm right here in Ripton.
On the menu: İçli Pide and Lahmacun—two warm, flavorful dishes that we like to describe as Turkish pizza-burritos. They’re hearty, a little unexpected, and surprisingly comforting. I’m not exactly the most adventurous eater, and I’d happily have one of these any night of the week.
Our cook’s already chatting about adding more dishes soon, so the menu might grow a bit each week. We’re starting simple—but stay tuned.
You’ll also find baklava, ayran (a traditional yogurt drink—salty and refreshing), and mango nectar for those who want something new, or just something sweet.
Whether you’re popping in for a midday meal or gathering with friends for an easy Monday dinner, we’d love to see you.
Dine in or take out. No reservations needed, but a quick heads-up helps—especially after 7pm. Text: 802-345-4445 | Email: info@chipmaninn.com
We’re calling it Case of the Mondays Meals and Catering for now… and we’ll see where it goes from here.
– Elizabeth
Still Very Much Alive (and for Sale)
by Elizabeth on March 22, 2025
Yes, the inn is officially on the market.
And yes, we’re still here—drinking tea in the dining room, hanging fresh curtains, chatting with hikers, and cooking up all kinds of gatherings and ideas. The flowers may still be hitting snooze, but inside, things are humming along.
It may take some time to find the right buyer, and we’re in no rush. In the meantime, we’re continuing to host community events (like our Turkish Lunch on March 30 and the Death Café in May), celebrate milestones (including Middlebury College graduation parties), and look forward to a wild summer of hikers, bikers, writers, and wanderers filling these rooms once again.
A Place That’s Evolving
Since we arrived, Chipman Inn has continued to evolve. What was once a slightly weary old home is now a place buzzing with life—thanks to friends who have helped us patch, paint, repair, reimagine, and remind this place of what it can be. We're still making little improvements, room by room, corner by corner.
Why the Sale?
Some people ask, “Why are you selling if things are going well?” Fair question. The truth is, we love this place and the community around it—but we're also open to the idea that someone else might be able to take the inn even further. With 9 guest rooms plus a cozy 2-room owner’s quarters, a lively local scene (yes, right here in lil ol' Ripton!), and more potential than we can personally manage, it feels right to explore what’s possible.
Every pop-up dinner, coffee morning, and casual gathering we've hosted has been a real success—proof that people are hungry (sometimes literally) for more of this kind of thing. But truthfully, I just don’t have it in me to add “grow a café/event empire” to my to-do list. Someone with a bit more go-get-’em could really take those sparks and turn them into something bigger.
Also—if we’re being honest—our kids are getting really tired of hearing “Shhh! There are guests!” every time they open a bag of chips.
Until Then…
Until the right person comes along, we’re still here. Still laughing over coffee with guests. Still adjusting the thermostat too many times a day. Still adding new names to the guestbook. Chipman Inn is on the market, yes—but it’s not on pause.
Want to Know More?
If you’re curious about what owning an inn like this might look like—or if you just want to hear about the time the upstairs closet door opened on its own during a snowstorm—we’re happy to talk.
Thanks, as always, for being part of this story. Whether you’ve stayed with us once or followed along from afar, we’re grateful. -Elizabeth
P.S. This is the part where I’m supposed to say all the SEO-friendly things so people can find this blog: charming Vermont inn for sale, historic bed and breakfast in the Green Mountains, lodging business opportunity near Middlebury College, turn-key inn with guest rooms, Ripton Vermont real estate, Vermont inn with event potential, hiking and biking getaway, cozy inn with owner’s quarters, Chipman Inn for sale, Vermont hospitality lifestyle... okay, that should do it.
The Three Ghosts of Chipman House
by Elizabeth on March 09, 2025
Long before it was Chipman Inn, the grand house standing at the heart of the village was a private residence, its halls filled with the lives of those who passed through. From the days when letters arrived by stagecoach to the evenings when cigarettes burned low in smoky, laughter-filled parlors, to today's family friendly bed & breakfast (with a strict no smoking policy), the house has always been a place of warmth, company, and—always—cats.
Three, in particular, never left.
Their portraits still hang in the house, regal in their attire, dressed as if they might step out of their frames at any moment to oversee the goings-on. And perhaps they do.
The Matriarch—Lady Ashworth (“Ashes”) (born June 20, 1837) Of the three spectral felines, Ashes is the eldest and most revered. Born in the era when the house served as Ripton’s first post office, she carried herself with all the dignity of a creature accustomed to important affairs. A smoky gray-and-amber tabby with striking golden eyes, Ashes was said to have been a constant presence in the parlor, sitting atop the wooden desk where Daniel Chipman, the town’s first postmaster, sorted letters.
She was more than a mere observer. Townspeople swore that she had a habit of pressing her paw onto certain letters, as if giving her own judgment on their contents. Some said that the mail she approved always reached its recipient in good fortune, while those she knocked to the floor held secrets best left unsent. Whether this was superstition or not, no one dared shoo her away.
Even now, guests reading in the parlor have reported feeling a small weight settle beside them, though nothing is there. Others have found their letters or postcards ever so slightly shifted from where they left them. And on still, quiet evenings, there are whispers of paper rustling when no one is in the room—as if Ashes is still sorting through correspondence, deciding which letters deserve to travel onward and which are best forgotten.
The Hostess—Cecilia (“Cinder”) (born November 1, 1894) By the time Cinder was born, the house had long since ceased its postal duties. It was a different kind of home now—one run by a widow named Harriet, who welcomed traveling physicians and boarders to stay as a way of making ends meet. Guests arrived in sturdy boots, bearing heavy satchels and the air of men who had traveled far. But whatever weight they carried, they found solace in Harriet’s quiet hospitality, and in the graceful presence of the small, dark-furred cat who moved among them like a hostess of quiet authority.
Cinder was a socialite, a little lady with deep gray fur, amber eyes, and an affinity for fine company. She was known to greet visitors at the door, weaving between their legs before perching on a windowsill, observing the evening conversations with keen interest. Some claimed that she could tell which guests would stay for only a night and which would return. Others said she had a habit of leaping onto the laps of those with troubled hearts, offering silent comfort.
Her presence is still felt today. More than one guest has reported a flicker of movement near the windows, as if something small and shadowy is watching the world outside. Some have left a seat empty at breakfast, only to find the chair mysteriously warm, as if someone—or something—had just been there. And on rare occasions, a guest sitting alone in the parlor may feel the barest sensation of a soft tail brushing against their arm, just before the fire crackles and shifts.
The Enchantress—Persephone (“Penny”) (born August 15, 1950) By the time Penny arrived, the house belonged to the Meachums, a lively and well-loved family who filled its rooms with the sound of clinking glasses, laughter, and music from Middlebury alumni who gathered for drinks and cigarettes. The parlor was no longer a place of solemn affairs—it was a place of warm, boisterous company, of intellectual conversation and late-night toasts. Penny fit right in.
A long-haired beauty with a plume of a tail and a knowing gaze, she was the undisputed queen of the house. She draped herself over velvet chairs, chose the finest laps as her resting place, and seemed to have a particular fondness for those with a drink in hand. More than one guest found their cocktail ever so slightly displaced when they looked away, and if Penny was displeased with the company, she would simply leap onto the mantle and stare them down until they reconsidered their presence.
To this day, guests who settle into a cozy chair with a glass of wine may find their drink ever so slightly moved when they look back. Some have even sworn they’ve seen a faint impression in the cushions, as if someone—something—has just risen. And in the mirrors, more than a few visitors have caught a glimpse of a fluffy, silvery shape watching them, just before vanishing as quickly as a wisp of cigarette smoke.
Three Spirits, One Home Though decades and even centuries have passed, the three ladies remain. Ashes, ever the postmistress, still oversees correspondence in the parlor. Cinder, the perfect hostess, ensures that guests feel welcomed—or warned. And Penny, ever the socialite, lingers near the sound of laughter, never one to miss a lively evening.
So if you ever find yourself at Chipman Inn, and you feel a small weight at the foot of your bed, or the softest brush of fur against your leg, do not be alarmed.
The ladies are simply making their rounds.
And I suppose that’s why, despite being an old, old house in the woods… we don’t seem to have a mouse problem.
✨ Kitchen Transformation at Chipman Inn: A Labor of Love ✨
by Elizabeth on December 24, 2024
✨ Kitchen Transformation at Chipman Inn: A Labor of Love ✨
As the year winds down, we’ve been reflecting on all the progress at Chipman Inn. While there’s plenty to celebrate, the transformation of the kitchen is a story all on its own.
It’s not a Pinterest-perfect kitchen, and it might not win any Instagram awards, but it’s up to health and fire code—something we’re incredibly proud of. This space is finally functional, safe, and ready to serve as the heart of our historic inn.
The Kitchen We Inherited
When we purchased the house, the kitchen was unforgettable (and not in a good way). In fact, it was the reason most prospective buyers passed on the property. Even our inspector refused to evaluate it, describing it as “too messy to inspect.”
Here’s a glimpse of what we were up against:
- 🍴 Piles of trash and expired food: Every corner was stuffed with years of waste—we even found a can of beans that expired in 2014! (Fun fact: Did you know beans can expire?) Cleaning it out took multiple junk removal trips and lots of elbow grease.
- 🔥 Layers of grease: Decades of grime coated the walls, floors, and even under the old gas range. Without a working ventilation system or regular maintenance, the buildup was so bad we had to shovel it out before deep cleaning.
- 🥶 The “walk-in refrigerator”: This wasn’t insulated—just an asbestos-lined closet that was as unsafe as it was inefficient. We replaced it with modern refrigerators that are far more practical (and safe).
- 🌬️ Non-functional ventilation hood: Held together with duct tape, it made the fire suppression system useless. Now, both systems are fully operational and up to code.
- ✨ Counters and cabinets: The plywood counters and rusty cabinets were beyond saving, but we repurposed metal racks where we could and upgraded to durable stainless steel surfaces.
A Team Effort
This transformation wouldn’t have been possible without some amazing help:
- Curtis Miles (Dad): For helping us overhaul the space in under a week when guests were arriving.
- Albert: For tearing out cabinets and tackling drywall work.
- Anthony Reider: For rewiring the space and upgrading the electrical system.
- Impact Fire and NEVTEC: For ensuring our fire suppression and ventilation systems are safe and up to code.
- My mom: For clearing out endless expired food and trash.
- JR and Sons: For hauling away piles of junk and helping us breathe a little easier.
- Svetlana: For her beautiful painting and stenciling that added a touch of old-world charm to the new kitchen.
- Chris Guilbeau: For wrestling the old stove out of its spot and tackling those grease-covered floors when I had reached my limit.
A Special Thanks
To our amazing guests: thank you for your patience while we had to close the kitchen for renovations. You stuck with us when all we had to work with was a toaster oven and electric griddle. Your understanding made this transformation possible, and we’re so grateful for your support.
The Before, During, and After Video
Here’s a video showing the transformation (at least the parts I remembered to capture on camera). It’s incredible to see how far this space has come:
Looking Forward
This remodel has been a labor of love (and a fair amount of sweat), but seeing how far this space has come is incredibly rewarding. The kitchen may not be fancy, but it’s functional, safe, and ready to serve as a cornerstone of Chipman Inn for years to come.
Thank you for being part of this adventure with us. Here’s to many delicious meals and memorable moments ahead!
Why Families Love Chipman Inn
by Elizabeth on November 16, 2024
Our HipCampers rolled in with a rented Cruise America® RV from Long Island, ready for an adventure in the quiet Green Mountains. Mom, Dad, Uncle, and two adventurous kids—a first-grader and a fourth-grader—were tackling their first-ever RV trip. They spent their holiday weekend exploring the area and soaking up the mountain views.
Meanwhile, we welcomed two Middlebury grads from the early 2000s who brought their six- and nine-year-olds for a nostalgic trip to Vermont. They stayed in our Adventurer’s Post Room, which, with its queen bed, two twin beds, and a private bathroom with a bathtub (always a hit with little ones), felt like it was designed just for them.
The inn came alive with kids this weekend, and honestly, it was such a joy. Watching their curiosity take over as they explored the games we’ve tucked away, or seeing them pull books from the shelves (placed perfectly at kid-height, of course—boring books go above their reach), reminded me why I’ve always wanted the inn to be a welcoming place for families.
As a mom myself, I know what it’s like to feel the pull of chain hotels—kids eat free, lots of space, and no judgment when the little ones are a bit loud. But I also remember the constant shushing, the nagging worry about disturbing others, and the impersonal vibe of those places. So many New England inns proudly boast being “adults only,” and even the ones that allow kids don’t always feel like they’re expecting them.
I wanted Chipman Inn to be different. I wanted it to be a place where families could truly relax—where kids are welcomed, not just tolerated. That’s why I’ve tucked toys and games into nooks, curated books for different ages, and even set out specific toys or books in rooms when I know families with children are coming. It’s the little details, like Magna-tiles waiting on a rocking chair or a well-loved board game on the living room table, that make kids feel like this place is just as much for them as it is for the grown-ups.
Yes, our inn still has its antique charm, with creaky floors and rooms steeped in history, but it’s also a home—a home that welcomes families in the 21st century. We’re here for the memories made by the fire with s’mores, for kids building blanket forts between the chairs, and for parents unwinding with a glass of local wine or a cup of Fair Trade tea while their kids dive into a stack of new-to-them books.
And here’s a fun twist from the weekend: The RV family learned something new on their trip—turns out, RVing wasn’t for them! After one night in the RV, they decided they’d had enough of the cramped quarters and chilly mountain air. The good news? They were able to pivot their plans and spend their second night inside the cozy comfort of the inn. Sometimes the best adventures come with a bit of flexibility, and we were happy to give them a warm place to land.
So, if you’re looking for a place where your kids don’t just feel welcome but like they belong, we’d love to have you. Whether you’re here to explore the mountains or just relax by the fire, Chipman Inn is ready to be part of your family’s story.
Weddings in Ripton: A Magical Spring, Summer, and Fall Celebration at Chipman Inn
by Elizabeth on October 24, 2024
The most recent wedding, in the fall, was especially neat. The entire bridal party got ready at the inn, and as the wedding began, the bells of the Ripton Community Church rang out across town—audible right from the inn! The church, originally built in 1864 as the Ripton Methodist Episcopal Church, is just a short walk away, and the wedding party made a charming procession from the inn to the church on foot. It added such a warm and intimate touch to the day.
After the ceremony, the celebration continued literally next door to the inn at the Ripton Community House. This historic building, built in 1866 as the Ripton Congregational Church, was beautifully transformed for the reception. Upstairs, a bar welcomed guests, while downstairs, dining tables and a dance floor, adorned with flowers and twinkling lights, created a breathtaking atmosphere. Our ample parking lot was filled with guests arriving for the wedding, and it was wonderful to see so much joy surrounding the event.
One of my favorite moments was seeing the bride and groom’s “first look” right in front of the inn. The backdrop was pure Vermont magic—golden leaves carpeting the ground and hanging beautifully in the trees. They couldn’t have timed it better for a classic fall wedding. I’m already excited to see the photos from the day, especially with the inn and the fall foliage as the perfect setting.
And, as if the day couldn’t get any better, our usual sitting room—where we often host book clubs, crafting corners, and music jams—turned into the perfect nursery for the reception! All the little ones were able to nap comfortably while their parents danced the night away just next door. It was such a thoughtful touch that really made the event feel even more special.
It’s funny—I never thought to ask if they picked up their marriage license from Ripton Town Hall, which is in the building right between the two churches. That building holds a special place in our town’s history as well—it was the first church in Ripton, built in 1838 as the old Congregational Church. Fun fact: the land it sits on was deeded by none other than Daniel Chipman himself, original owner of Chipman House!
As we wrap up another busy wedding season, I can’t help but feel grateful to be part of these special moments for so many couples. Ripton is truly a magical place to celebrate love, no matter the season.
Planning a wedding? We’d love to help make your special day as magical as possible. From securing your marriage license at the historic Ripton Town Hall to hosting your family and guests at Chipman Inn, arranging local florists and caterers, and even finding a Justice of the Peace right here in Ripton—we’re here to assist with every detail. Whether it’s a cozy spring gathering or a breathtaking fall celebration, we’re ready to make your wedding dreams come true in the heart of Vermont.
And now, this is the part where we use lots of SEO phrases to help people googling around to find the best wedding venue in Vermont.... If you’re searching for the perfect rustic wedding venue in Vermont or looking for an intimate, charming inn for your destination wedding in the Green Mountains, maybe you graduated from Middlebury College or went to Breadloaf School of English, Chipman Inn offers the ideal location for your special day. From breathtaking fall weddings with vibrant foliage to spring celebrations full of Vermont’s natural beauty, our historic inn provides a picture-perfect backdrop for any season. Let us help you plan the ultimate Vermont wedding with local vendors, top-notch hospitality, and a truly unforgettable experience.
A Season of Adventure and Change at Chipman Inn
by Elizabeth on October 17, 2024
It’s been a whirlwind of a summer at Chipman Inn. We hosted 52 hikers this year—52 adventurers who came to explore the famous Long Trail and found solace here in our cozy little inn. There’s something about hiking that starts as a solo journey but often ends with a "tramily"—a trail family. Our Adventurer’s Post room, with its queen bed, two twins, and sink, became the go-to spot for these travelers. It’s perfect for hiking groups or "tramilies," providing a warm and welcoming space to rest their tired legs after days of conquering the trail. I still smile when I think about the way our little inn became a haven for them.
For those who love hiking, there’s no better place to stay than here, nestled in the heart of Vermont’s Green Mountains. Our inn is located just minutes from trailheads, making it easy to plan your next hiking adventure. Whether you’re tackling the Long Trail or simply looking for a scenic day hike, Chipman Inn offers a peaceful retreat with all the comforts you’ll need after a long day on the trails.
But as the hiking season wraps up and the last leaves flutter to the ground, I can’t help but turn my thoughts toward winter. The same trails that carried hikers in the summer will soon be blanketed with snow, and the skiers will follow. And just like our hiking guests, those seeking the perfect ski lodge or winter getaway will find a cozy refuge here. There’s something magical about waking up to a world covered in white, making s'mores by the fire, and heading out for a day on the slopes.
Whether you’re here for a ski vacation or a hiking retreat, there’s something undeniably special about Vermont in every season. At Chipman Inn, we’ve seen it all—the hikers, the skiers, the adventurers—and we’ve loved being a part of each journey.
So, as the seasons change, we’re ready for whatever comes next. If you’re planning a winter escape for skiing or looking to hike Vermont’s trails, there’s always a place for you here at Chipman Inn. With comfortable rooms, a welcoming atmosphere, and proximity to Vermont’s best hiking and skiing destinations, we’re the perfect home base for your next adventure.
The trees may be shedding their leaves, but Vermont’s beauty never fades. Whether it’s the vibrant colors of fall, the snowy mountains of winter, or the fresh blooms of spring, Chipman Inn is here, offering a place to stay, unwind, and explore. If you’re searching for a place to stay near the Long Trail or a quaint inn for your ski vacation, Chipman Inn welcomes you with open arms, no matter the season.
Celebrating a Year at Chipman Inn: Moments of Growth and Gratitude
by Elizabeth on June 10, 2024
As the one-year anniversary of our arrival at Chipman Inn swiftly approaches, I'm taking this serene moment to reflect. Amidst starting a new position at the Addison Independent and gearing up for our peak season at the inn, time seems to be speeding up. We are excited to welcome long trail hikers and visitors seeking a Vermont escape from the summer heat—from bustling cities to our southern friends craving a cooler climate. This perfect moment underscores the charm and appeal of staying in Ripton, a prime destination for those wanting to experience the natural beauty and community spirit of Vermont. We’re particularly excited to reconnect with friends from Texas this July!
Running Chipman Inn has been a profound joy, primarily because of the unique individuals we meet. Each guest, from intrepid nonagenarians to curious infants, adds a distinct story to our inn’s rich tapestry. We proudly offer six intimate rooms, each with its own name rather than a mere number, emphasizing the personalized and home-like environment we cherish. This attention to detail ensures that even when fully booked, the atmosphere remains personal and welcoming. This scale allows us to truly get to know our guests, ensuring they never feel like just another number. Families, college sports teams, and long trail hikers particularly appreciate this aspect, as it enhances their experience in the picturesque town of Ripton, Vermont. Whether it's the cozy setting for families, the buzz of college athletes in town for events at Middlebury College, or the respite we provide to hikers from the nearby trails, our guests enjoy a stay that feels distinctly tailored and far from overwhelming.
To all our past guests, you are part of our inn’s family and your stories are often recounted with fondness. To future visitors, whether you're seeking a peaceful retreat from the heat, an adventurous trail experience, or a quiet corner to rejuvenate, Chipman Inn is here to welcome you. Here’s to more stories, more laughter, and more unforgettable memories at our quaint Vermont inn.