best places to visit in vermont in march

Protect Your Trip »

25 Top Things to Do in Vermont

Outdoor adventures are just one of the high points of the Green Mountain State.

Getty Images

Enchanting views of fall foliage, delicious creemees, tastings at sugarhouses and more await travelers to Vermont.

In 2019 – in an attempt to reverse the state's then-declining population – Vermont was paying people to move there, awarding up to $10,000 as part of a grant program aimed at would-be remote employees of out-of-state companies. Over the last two years, the state has experienced an influx of newcomers relocating there for reasons beyond just a cash incentive (though those grants were still available until recently). In fact, a report this year by a moving company ranked Vermont as the U.S. state with the highest inbound move rate in 2021.

Instead of money, the incentive to move to Vermont is Vermont itself – the same reason people have chosen to vacation here for decades. It's a peaceful, naturally beautiful place to escape, affording outdoor attractions that range from world-renowned ski resorts to the scenic Lake Champlain, which extends into New York and Quebec.

Vermont also touts its share of charismatic small towns, unique lodging choices such as farm stays and all-inclusive resorts , and distinctive food and drink. This destination is worth a visit for its nationally recognized craft beer, the rich offerings of the Vermont Cheese Trail, the maple syrup – since Vermont produces more than 50% of the country's supply – and the "creemees," which are a slightly richer (and arguably tastier) take on soft serve ice cream.

There's no such thing as a bad time to visit Vermont – even the spring mud season has its offbeat perks – but fall is exceptionally beautiful, with perhaps the most stunning foliage in all of New England . Ever seen an iconic photo of a white church amid trees in hues of red and orange? That's Vermont (more specifically, Stowe).

Curious to see the Green Mountain State for yourself? If you're looking for the best things to do in Vermont, these are the experiences that should be on your list.

(Note: Some of the following activities, attractions and locations may be affected by the COVID-19 pandemic. New policies may be in place, including capacity restrictions, reservation requirements or mask mandates. Check with the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, the U.S. Department of State and local tourism boards before traveling.)

Lake Champlain

In 1998, Lake Champlain was briefly named one of the Great Lakes after then-President Bill Clinton signed into law a bill in which Senator Patrick Leahy of Vermont quietly deemed it as such. Eighteen days – and a heavy dispute – later, the title was rescinded after a determination that, geographically, Lake Champlain doesn't quite measure up to lakes like Superior and Michigan. But residents and tourists today can still recognize it for the great – not to be confused with Great – lake that it is.

With or without the esteemed title, Lake Champlain is a large freshwater lake that spans 435 square miles of surface water and wows visitors with views of the Green Mountains on one side and the Adirondacks on the other. Dozens of public beaches and boat launches line its shores, so you'll find no shortage of opportunities for recreation on the water, including boating, fishing, swimming and keeping an eye out for the mythological lake monster named Champ. The lake's popular island towns such as South Hero offer state parks, farms, orchards, vineyards, and even a few inns and campsites.

Ben & Jerry's Waterbury Factory Tour and Ice Cream Shop

Courtesy of Ben & Jerry's

Have you even been to Vermont if you don't take the factory tour at Ben & Jerry's ? At its flagship location in Waterbury (near Stowe), Ben & Jerry's offers 30-minute guided tours that include a short movie on the company's history, an overview of the production process, a look at the manufacturing area and an ice cream tasting. Of course, there's also an on-site ice cream shop and gift shop, and especially charming are the photo ops and Flavor Graveyard, where you can pay your respects to the "dearly de-pinted." Previous visitors confirm it's as touristy as it seems, but fun nonetheless.

Address: 1281 Waterbury-Stowe Road, state Route 100, Waterbury, VT 05676

One of the top things to do in Vermont is spend a day or two in Burlington , where Church Street Marketplace , the centerpiece of town, offers shopping, restaurants (many with outdoor dining) and lodging such as the boutique Hotel Vermont . Of course, this popular waterfront city also boasts a variety of local breweries. Other highlights in Burlington include ECHO, Leahy Center for Lake Champlain , a science and nature museum; the Ethan Allen Homestead , a historical farmhouse site; and, for those who enjoy quirky attractions, the World's Tallest File Cabinet. Whatever you do, don't bypass the Burlington Bike Path, a pleasant paved trail that runs along Lake Champlain and connects beaches, parks and neighborhoods.

[See more of Burlington: Things to Do | Hotels | When to Visit | Photos ]

Island Line Trail

Courtesy of Hello Burlington and Local Motion

The Island Line Trail, an extension of the Burlington Bike Path, crosses the middle of Lake Champlain via a 3-mile marble causeway, allowing you to practically touch the water with your feet in some areas; there's nothing quite like it. This rail trail begins in Burlington and follows the route of a railbed – the Island Line – built in 1899 by the Rutland-Canadian Railroad to connect New England to the Great Lakes, until moving freight by other means became cheaper around the 1950s. The railbed remained abandoned until it became a path for pedestrians and cyclists in the 1980s, and this rail trail has been one of the most unique things to do in Vermont ever since. To reach the end of the 14-mile stretch, you have to take a ferry, which bridges a 200-foot gap in the causeway, before continuing the short journey to South Hero Island.

To acquire a bike, check out Local Motion, a rental shop and advocacy organization in Burlington. This outpost offers conventional and hybrid bikes as well as e-bikes and kids bikes; trailers or tag-alongs are available for certain rentals. Local Motion also operates the bike ferry and provides an interactive map of the trail. Both bike rentals and ferry rides are available seasonally from May to October.

Experience the sugarhouses

As one of the largest producers of maple syrup, Vermont has thousands of sugarhouses, many of which host Maple Open House Weekends in March with tours and tastings. The events align with sugaring season (and mud season), when oscillating temperatures allow sap to loosen and flow through maple trees for sugar makers to collect. If you don't want to visit Vermont during mud season but still want to learn about syrup production and history, check out Baird Farm in Chittenden, which offers free tours and tastings year-round (reservations required). Previous guests rave about the staff's hospitality here.

[Read: The Top Romantic Getaways in Vermont .]

Try out a delicious creemee

Courtesy of Canteen Creemee Company

Creemees are essentially soft-serve ice cream, but there's no real consensus on where the name came from. Perhaps the moniker derives from the fact that Vermont used to make its soft serve higher in butterfat content and, hence, creamier. Either way, the creemee's most iconic flavor is maple, but you can't go wrong with any flavor at places such as Canteen Creemee Company in Waitsfield, The Village Scoop in Colchester and Al's French Frys in Burlington, all of which come recommended by locals and visitors alike. If you're looking for plant-based options, head to Offbeat Creemee in Winooski.

Breweries and beer trails

If you like craft beer, chances are Vermont is already on your list of places to visit . Featuring some of the top-rated breweries in the U.S., Vermont is home to The Alchemist in Stowe, whose Heady Topper IPA has a cult following, as well as Freak Folk Bier in Waterbury and Hill Farmstead Brewery in Greensboro. If you really want to immerse yourself in the craft beer scene, follow one of the Vermont Brewers Association's beer trails (available online or on an app where you can take the Vermont Brewery Passport Challenge). Cyclists may want to check out the bike-friendly Burlington Trail, where you can imbibe highly rated beers at Foam Brewers. Pet owners can take advantage of the Dog Friendly Beer Trail to drink alongside furry friends, while the Tiny Trail will take beer enthusiasts exclusively to nano breweries.

Vermont Teddy Bear

What started as a Burlington street cart in 1981 has grown into a full-fledged store and experience in Shelburne, Vermont. At Vermont Teddy Bear, visitors can take a tour of the factory where the now-famous plush bears are made, including the Bear Hospital, where injured or sick teddy bears are lovingly repaired by the resident bear doctor. For an additional fee on top of the tour cost, visitors can make their own teddy bear to take home or gift to someone they love. It's the perfect way to commemorate a trip to Vermont for visitors of all ages. You can also check out the on-site Bear Shop to browse the selection of bears and Vermont-made products.

Address: 6655 Shelburne Road, Shelburne, VT 05482

Simon Pearce Flagship

Courtesy of Simon Pearce

Another item to immortalize a trip to Vermont (albeit more expensive than a teddy bear) is a handcrafted piece of glassware or pottery from the Simon Pearce store in Quechee, the namesake studio of a legendary Irish-American entrepreneur and artist who resides in Vermont. Located in a renovated historic woolen mill that's hydroelectrically powered by the Ottauquechee River – an attraction in itself – the artist's flagship store includes a workshop where you can watch craftspeople blowing glass pieces that are sold on-site, in addition to fine dining at The Mill at Simon Pearce, which overlooks a waterfall and covered bridge.

Address: 1760 Quechee Main St., Quechee, VT 05059

Hit the ski slopes in Stowe and beyond

Courtesy of Stowe Mountain Resort

Vermont is a world-renowned destination for skiing, with more than two dozen public ski areas on offer. Among them is Stowe Mountain Resort , nicknamed the "Ski Capital of the East" and considered one of the best places to ski in the U.S. This resort touts 485 acres of skiable terrain that cover Spruce Peak and Mount Mansfield, the highest point in Vermont. Just as good as the skiing and snowboarding is the town of Stowe itself, where shops and restaurants line Main Street and hotels such as Topnotch Resort and The Lodge at Spruce Peak offer luxury accommodations and amenities.

Check out other notable ski resorts such as Killington, the largest ski area on the East Coast, and family-friendly Smugglers' Notch, where winter activities include ski lessons for kids as young as 3, snowshoe scavenger hunts and a winter carnival. On any summer voyage to Vermont, don't overlook resorts such as Okemo, where you can ride what's essentially a flying couch – skiers will know it as a bubble chairlift – and hike to a historic fire tower for 360-degree mountain views.

[See more of Stowe: Things to Do | Hotels | When to Visit | Photos ]

Trapp Family Lodge

One of the hotels that make Stowe a popular place to stay is the Trapp Family Lodge , owned by the von Trapp family (yes, that von Trapp family). After the Trapp Family Singers toured the U.S. in the early 1940s, they decided to settle on a farm in Stowe, which reminded them of their home country, Austria . In the summer of 1950, the family opened a 27-room lodge. Later destroyed by a fire, the Trapp Family Lodge was rebuilt with a variety of accommodations, activities and on-site dining, now including von Trapp Brewing, where you can drink in the resort's history, mountain views, and a craft beer or two.

Address: 700 Trapp Hill Road, Stowe, VT 05672

Vermont Cheese Trail

All roads lead to cheese on the Vermont Cheese Trail, composed of more than 45 award-winning cheesemakers including Cabot Creamery. Some farms provide tastings and/or tours, while others simply sell their best products. Check out an online map of the Vermont Cheese Trail to see each cheesemaker's location and offerings.

Wondering where to begin your cheesy commute through Vermont? If you like aged cheddar, stop at Grafton Village Cheese or Shelburne Farms. For goat cheese, try the chevre varieties at Blue Ledge Farm. You also can't go wrong with the offerings at Consider Bardwell Cheese. No matter where you go, the products made by Jasper Hill Farm, whose cheeses rank among the best in the world, are more than worth a taste. While its location in the Northeast Kingdom region isn't open to the public, the farm's artisanal cheeses can be found at local grocery stores (and at select stores throughout the U.S.).

Liberty Hill Farm

Courtesy of Liberty Hill Farm

For a look at where the cheese process begins, Liberty Hill Farm offers tours and overnight accommodations. Guests of this dairy farm's cozy bed-and-breakfast enjoy a farm-fresh morning meal, afternoon cocoa and cookies, and a hardy dinner each day of their stay – with ingredients including Cabot Creamery cheeses. The biggest draw of a visit to Liberty Hill Farm, however, is the opportunity to feed and milk the resident cows. Even if you don't decide to stay at the inn, you can still book this activity through Airbnb Experiences . When you aren't doing kid-approved farm chores or meeting the animals, you will find plenty to do in the surrounding area. Previous guests, especially families with young children, say their farm experience was enriching, adding that the home-cooked meals are exceptionally good.

Address: 511 Liberty Hill, Rochester, VT 05767

General stores

For all things Americana and Vermont, take some time to browse a kitschy general store or two. The Vermont Country Store is the most famous, of course, with several locations throughout the state. Here you can buy everything from candy and gifts to clothing and kitchenware. But even more interesting is the F.H. Gillingham and Sons store in Woodstock: One of Vermont's oldest general stores still run by the same family, it's owned by descendants of Frank Henry Gillingham, who opened the general store in 1886, and Franklin Billings. Its original customer guarantee, "Your money's worth or your money back," is still honored today. Previous patrons love the vintage vibe of this store, with some calling F.H. Gillingham and Sons a mandatory stop in Woodstock.

Visit the former house and grave of Robert Frost

If you've ever enjoyed Robert Frost's poetry, head to the southwest corner of the state to learn more about the time he spent there. The first poet laureate of Vermont lived in a house in Shaftsbury in the 1920s that has since become the Robert Frost Stone House Museum; visitors can see the room where in 1922 Frost wrote his renowned poem "Stopping by Woods on a Snowy Evening." Explore the poet's life through letters, writing drafts, notes and other documents at this house museum, which is open seasonally from May through October.

Less than 5 miles away, you can make a pit stop at a historic cemetery in Old Bennington, located next to the Old First Church, to visit his grave, which is etched with a line of his poetry: "I had a lover's quarrel with the world." This burial ground is near the also visit-worthy Bennington Battle Monument, a storied structure that happens to be the tallest in Vermont.

Grafton Inn

Hang your hat where Ulysses S. Grant, Theodore Roosevelt, Woodrow Wilson, Ralph Waldo Emerson and other well-known figures once hung theirs. You'll see those names and the names of other famous guests in the cozy lobby of this inn, a member of the Historic Hotels of America. Grafton Inn offers individually (and beautifully) furnished rooms, suites and guesthouses on top of top-notch dining. The 1801 Tavern also houses Pine Room Bar, and the Phelps Barn Pub offers live music on select evenings. On-site activities include hiking, mountain biking, disc golf and pond swimming in the summer months, as well as cross-country skiing, snow tubing, snowshoeing and sleigh rides in the winter. There may not be tons to do in the village of Grafton itself – it's a small town with a cheese shop and a mercantile or two – but that's the allure.

Address: 92 Main St., Grafton, VT 05146

Shelburne Museum

Courtesy of Shelburne Museum

The Shelburne Museum has a little bit of everything, with attractions and activities located both indoors and out: The 39 buildings housing its collections are scattered across 45 acres. One popular exhibition can be found in the Circus Building, where you can ogle the fantastical, miniature Arnold Circus Parade, a hand-carved display that nearly runs the length of the 518-foot building. This unconventional museum also features historic Vermont structures, including a rare two-lane covered bridge from 1845, a Lake Champlain lighthouse from 1871 and the 1906 Ticonderoga, a restored 220-foot steamboat and National Historic Landmark that visitors can freely explore. Reviewers say the admission cost may be a bit steep but assure you'll understand why once you see just how special this museum is. Note that the Shelburne Museum is open seasonally from May to October.

Address: 6000 Shelburne Road, Shelburne, VT 05482

Basin Harbor

If there's one place that captures the spirit of Vermont, it's Basin Harbor, a resort whose repeat guests span generations – a true testament to the vacation experience at this lakefront lodge. Tucked into the woods of Vergennes, this enchanting resort offers pet-friendly cottages on the water as well as hotel guest rooms, and a variety of on-site dining options that include al fresco cookouts and lobster dinners on the North Dock. Lake Champlain activities range from narrated cruises and shipwreck tours to tubing and paddleboating, while land-based fun includes hiking, biking, tennis, croquet and badminton. Families especially love knockerball, a game similar to soccer where players are encased in inflatable spheres, as well as the Kids Club, with age-specific groups and activities. Bonus: The resort offers a variety of meal plans, including a Full American Plan that includes three meals daily.

Address: 4800 Basin Harbor Road, Vergennes, VT 05491

The Tyler Place Family Resort

Did you know there are all-inclusive resorts in Vermont? Perhaps the most well-known option is The Tyler Place Family Resort in Swanton. This classic resort offers a variety of cozy accommodations such as cottages with screened porches and kitchenettes – but not kitchens, since breakfast, lunch and dinner are included in nightly rates. Speaking of meals, The Tyler Place has a unique setup for dinner: Adults are encouraged to enjoy a quiet meal while children – who get to eat earlier – play with the newfound friends and counselors they meet via the resort's award-winning programs for kids. Together, families enjoy a seemingly endless array of activities, from banana boating and water skiing on Lake Champlain to biking around the property and exploring the gardens.

Note that The Tyler Place is open seasonally and, with the exception of Memorial Day and Labor Day weekends, requires a Saturday-to-Saturday reservation. Families rave about their stay at the resort, noting that it provides the perfect balance of alone time and family time.

Address: 175 Tyler Place, Swanton, VT 05488

Woodstock Inn & Resort

Courtesy of Woodstock Inn & Resort

The Woodstock Inn & Resort was purchased by Laurance and Mary Rockefeller in 1967, but its history traces back to a small tavern built in 1793. Today this inn is one of the best hotels in Vermont . The historic inn offers lovely guest rooms and suites (including pet-friendly options) that combine the Rockefellers' love of nature and historic preservation. Guests can also enjoy its distinct restaurants, including the award-winning Red Rooster, and a top-rated spa. The hotel also offers an activity center where you can arrange off-site excursions such as Orvis-endorsed fly fishing and mountain biking. Nearby, guests can visit the Billings Farm & Museum, enjoy winter sports at the Suicide Six ski area and stroll the quaint village of Woodstock.

Address: 14 The Green, Woodstock, VT 05091

Northeast Kingdom

Referred to by locals as the Northeast Kingdom for its natural splendor, this region in the northeast corner of Vermont borders Canada and is more remote than most places in the state (if you can believe it). In addition to its beauty, this area boasts charming dining and lodging options alongside opportunities for agritourism and ecotourism.

Explore the many vacation destinations along the Northeast Kingdom Byway, a 51-mile corridor that makes for a scenic driving tour. In the town of Burke, you'll find Lake Willoughby, Mount Pisgah and Burke Mountain Resort. Animal lovers may want to check out Saint Johnsbury, which has a lively downtown area and the one-of-a-kind Dog Chapel. Newport, a small city with lots of water activities on Lake Memphremagog, is another potential stop in the Northeast Kingdom. Not quite along the byway but still worth a visit is the town of Jay, home to Jay Peak Resort and the Pump House indoor water park (the only one of its kind in Vermont).

Marsh-Billings-Rockefeller National Historical Park

Marsh-Billings-Rockefeller National Park is the only national park in Vermont as well as the nation's only national park dedicated to conservation history and the evolving nature of land stewardship in the U.S. Both self- and ranger-guided tours of the park allow visitors to explore an on-site mansion featuring esteemed landscape artwork. You can traverse trails that lead to the Pogue, a 14-acre pond, and take in unparalleled views of the village of Woodstock and the surrounding countryside. It's the perfect place to enjoy a picnic lunch. The park also offers Junior Ranger programming for kids.

Address: 54 Elm St., Woodstock, VT 05091

Courtesy of Twin Farms

If you're looking for a romantic getaway in Vermont, book a stay at Twin Farms , one of the best Vermont hotels. At this intimate, all-inclusive hotel tucked into the countryside, guests have a choice of guest rooms, suites, cottages and the Farmhouse (whose four suites can be booked individually or together for groups), all of which are equal parts luxurious and cozy. Select cottages allow up to two dogs, with beds, blankets, treats, bowls and waste cans included in the additional pet fee.

Unique activities include bee tours, ax throwing and archery when the weather is warm; in the colder months, guests can enjoy options like ice fishing and skating. Of course, the Bridge House Spa (complete with a glass-brick steam room) is perfect any time of year, as is the seasonally inspired food and wine program. In fact, Twins Farms places an emphasis on the dining experience, with premium meal options including gourmet picnic lunches and private dinners in the on-site wine cellar. Previous guests can't say enough good things about Twin Farms, noting the service is beyond compare.

Address: 452 Royalton Turnpike, Barnard, VT 05031

The Essex, Vermont's Culinary Resort & Spa

Courtesy of The Essex, Vermont's Culinary Resort & Spa

The Essex is a culinary resort, which means you'll not only get to eat some of the best food you've ever had, but you'll also get to prepare it. At the resort's Cook Academy, hands-on classes – designed for all skill levels – span cake decorating, curated dinners, brunch, sushi rolling, and Vermont beer and cheese pairings. Of course, The Essex also offers phenomenal dining options, notably Junction: an interactive, award-winning restaurant. Other highlights of the resort include a spa, pool and championship tennis courts. Reviewers say they enjoyed their stay at The Essex and also appreciated its close proximity – about 10 miles – to Burlington.

Address: 70 Essex Way, Essex, VT 05452

The Coffee Roost

Courtesy of Vermont Artisan Coffee & Tea

Wake up to the smell of fresh coffee beans at The Coffee Roost , an Airbnb located above a working coffee roaster. The modernly furnished apartment, which is accessible via a private entrance, features a cozy queen bed and a spacious, fully equipped kitchen with bar seating. Guests appreciate the uniqueness of this Airbnb, along with its close proximity to Stowe and Waterbury.

Address: 11 Cabin Lane, Waterbury Center, VT 05677

You might also be interested in:

• The Top Things to Do in New Hampshire
• The Top Things to Do in Maine
• The Top Things to Do in Rhode Island
• The Top Things to Do in Brooklyn
• The Top Romantic Getaways in New Hampshire
• The Top Romantic Getaways in Maine
• The Top Boston Harbor Cruises
• Romantic Hotels Worth a Stay
• The Top Travel Backpacks

Tags: Travel , New England Vacations , US Vacations

World's Best Places To Visit

• # 1 South Island, New Zealand
• # 4 Bora Bora

If you make a purchase from our site, we may earn a commission. This does not affect the quality or independence of our editorial content.

You May Also Like

The 4 best temecula wine tours.

John Rodwan and Nicola Wood July 2, 2024

The Best Puerto Rico Tours

John Rodwan July 2, 2024

Amazon Prime Day Luggage Deals

Amanda Norcross July 2, 2024

Top Things to Do in Montana

Ben Luthi and Kelsey J. Lawrence July 2, 2024

Best Monterey Whale Watching Tours

John Rodwan and Ann Henson July 1, 2024

Sun Princess Review

Holly Johnson June 25, 2024

The 7 Best Key West Snorkeling Tours

Gwen Pratesi June 21, 2024

The Best San Diego Whale Watching

John Rodwan June 21, 2024

6 Top Boston Harbor Cruises

Brittany Chrusciel and Marisa Méndez June 21, 2024

Fun Things to Do in Oklahoma

Ben Luthi and Justine Harrington June 20, 2024

50 Things to Do in Vermont: Bucket List & Travel Guide (2024)

• Latest Posts

• 21 Family Vacations in New England for Every Season (2024) - February 26, 2024
• 15 Wonderful Weekend Getaways in Maine (2024) - February 3, 2024
• 33 Best Beach Towns in New England to Visit in 2024 🌊 - January 28, 2024

There are so many amazing things to do in Vermont. I should know, because I lived there for 15 years! From hikes and small towns to local foods and snowy peaks, this small state packs a lot into its 9,616 square miles.

I truly love Vermont, and I know you will, too! I have created this ultimate Vermont travel guide to help you plan your trip to Vermont.

In this guide I share 50 of my favorite things to do in Vermont, including the best places to visit in Vermont, fun VT activities in all seasons, and essential Vermont attractions.

Plus, I answer a few of the most frequently asked questions about visiting Vermont, including the best time to visit. I hope you have an epic adventure exploring our magical Green Mountain state!

Table of Contents

50 Best Things to Do in Vermont

In Vermont’s top destinations and beyond, here is a deeper look into the best and most fun things to do in Vermont in fall, winter, spring, or summer!

1. Go shopping and people-watching at Church Street Marketplace

One of the most well-known places to go in Vermont is Burlington’s Church Street Marketplace, a pedestrian-only thoroughfare that is bursting with restaurants, shops, and outdoor performers. This is an excellent spot for people-watching, but it’s also the center of the downtown space so there’s so much to do, and some of the best shopping in Vermont.

A few of the stores I recommend not to miss on Church Street include Lake Champlain Chocolates, Outdoor Gear Exchange, Homeport, Crow Bookshop, Ecco Clothes, and the Frog Hollow Craft Association and Gallery. Church Street alone could keep you busy all day, but there’s definitely a lot more to check out in VT’s largest city.

Check out my list of all the other cool things to do in Burlington Vermont!

2. Take a Vermont fall road trip (especially along Route 100)

A Vermont road trip is great at any time of year, but especially in the fall when the foliage is at its best; this would be a fun idea if you’re looking for what to do in Vermont in October!

One excellent option is a Route 100 road trip , which will take you almost the entire length of the state. If you’re looking for a shorter route, consider a quicker journey on one of these scenic Vermont drives.

3. Sample Vermont craft beers

Beer should be a part of your essential Vermont activities without a doubt. Vermont has dozens of craft breweries all around the state that are worth visiting. Vermont’s biggest city, Burlington, is home to a great many of these breweries , so you can check a lot off your list when visiting Burlington. Foam Brewers is one of the local favorites, with a great location near Lake Champlain. I really enjoy their sours!

4. Visit the Cold Hollow Cider Mill

One of the best places to visit in Vermont is the Cold Hollow Cider Mill , and it certainly is on every bucket list for Vermont in the fall !

Located in Waterbury, Vermont, on the road heading towards Stowe, this is a cider mill, apple-focused country store, restaurant, hard cidery, and more. It is completely adorable, perfectly fall, and smells like cinnamon heaven. Cold Hollow Cider Mill has been an institution in VT since the late 1970s and continues to be one of Vermont’s top tourist attractions. I guarantee you’ll leave here feeling cozy and happy from this perfect Vermont spot.

Grab a few locally-made products, tuck into a cold glass of cider, and above all, make sure to try the apple cider donuts which are out of this world.

5. Explore charming Woodstock, Vermont

One of best places to see in Vermont is the town of Woodstock. This destination is my top recommendation for someone coming to Vermont for the first time, as it encapsulates all that you imagine about Vermont!

Woodstock has been repeatedly named one of the most beautiful small towns  in America and I agree completely. Especially at Christmastime, Woodstock is one of those towns that  looks straight out of a Hallmark movie ! 

There are so many  great things to do in Woodstock in every season, such as hiking, visiting the Marsh-Billings-Rockefeller National Historical Park, and walking the charming Woodstock streets. Also be sure to visit F.H. Gillingham & Sons, the general store that has been in Woodstock since 1886 and offers one-of-a-kind specialty gifts for any occasion. 

6. Join one of Ben & Jerry’s Ice Cream Factory Tours

Want to visit one of the top Vermont attractions (and the yummiest)? I know where to send you! One of the best places to visit in Vermont is the original Ben & Jerry’s Ice Cream Factory . The entire place is so cute and creative, and as soon as you walk in, you’re enveloped in that oh-so-divine scent of ice cream and cookies. Ben & Jerry’s is great for anyone looking for good family fun in Vermont, too.

Take the Factory Tour, grab a free sample, or visit the quirky Flavor Graveyard to pay homage to short-lived flavors of the past. RIP “Makin’ Whoopie Pie.” This is one of those fun places to visit in Vermont that help to “keep Vermont cool!”

7. Hike to the summit of Camel’s Hump

New Hampshire isn’t the only state in New England to boast incredible hiking. Vermont is home to hundreds of miles of trails snaking across the Green Mountains. Hiking is one of the most fun things to do in VT, with summer and fall being the most popular seasons for hikes. In addition to the Long Trail, the Vermont section of the Appalachian Trail, there are countless others worth exploring in the Green Mountain National Forest. 

One of the  best hikes in Vermont  is to the top of Camel’s Hump. This distinctive peak can be seen from a great distance and looks—as you might expect—something like the hump of a camel. Take  this popular loop trail  to achieve the summit of the state’s 3rd highest peak–the view is exquisite at the height of fall foliage.

8. Check out the Trapp Family Lodge in Stowe

Visiting the Trapp Family Lodge is one of the best things to do around Stowe, VT . Did you know that the Von Trapp family, made famous by the film The Sound of Music , actually came to Vermont when they left Austria? They settled in the Stowe area, purportedly because it reminded them of their beloved Austrian alps. Here the family opened a hotel, and it remains one of the top places to visit in VT–and to stay!

Even if you don’t stay at the hotel, you can book many outdoor activities, like cross-country skiing or even sleigh rides (one of the best things to do in Vermont at Christmas , by the way!) Also make sure you admire the outside of the Bavarian-inspired inn, enjoy the phenomenal mountain views, and grab a drink and bite at their onsite brewery.

9. Swim in a cool Vermont lake

A day at the lake is one of the absolute best things to do in Vermont in summer ! Vermont’s lakes are absolutely gorgeous, and there are some fantastic lake house rentals in Vermont if you want a weekend getaway. My favorite lake in Vermont is Emerald Lake in East Dorset, VT. It’s name says it all! This spot is many hues of brilliant Vermont green all summer long. You can rent paddle boats and canoes for a quick trip around the small lake, or just swim in the shallows along the beach.

Fancy a swim? See more of  the best lakes in Vermont  and swimming holes.

10. Keep your eyes out for the Lake Monster

Looking for unique things to do in Vermont? Get a look at the Lake Monster!

Did you know that Vermont has its very own “Loch Ness” monster? Legend has it that Lake Champlain has a frightful creature lurking beneath its waters: the Lake Monster, also known as Champ. Keep close watch along the surface of the lake and you might just catch a glimpse of this elusive cryptid.

11. Explore the covered bridges

When it comes to what to see in Vermont, covered bridges are a must. And there are more than 100  covered bridges in Vermont ! These historic structures, most of which are still in use, are dotted throughout the state and are scenic points of interest in every season.

12. See the Lincoln family home, Hildene in Manchester

If you’re a fan of presidential history or pretty old houses with lovely gardens, you are sure to love Hildene, in the fun town of Manchester, VT. This property belonged to Abraham Lincoln’s son Robert Todd Lincoln. While the 16th President never resided here, you can view one of his iconic stovepipe top hats during your visit! Not only does the site boast a magnificent home that you can tour, there are also verdant gardens, breathtaking mountain views, and a working goat farm. Hildene also has a fantastic gift shop for grabbing your Vermont souvenirs.

Looking for more towns to explore? I’ve got a whole list of the most charming  small towns in Vermont  where you’re sure to find an idyllic utopia.

13. Walk, ride, or blade along the Burlington Bike Path

Stretching for miles throughout the city of Burlington and then further along the shores of Lake Champlain is the Burlington Bike Path. This route is beloved by avid cyclists, walkers, and visitors, as it offers some of the finest views of the magical lake and the Adirondacks in the distance.

You may want to continue onward on this trail even further, and you can! The Burlington Bike Path is part of the much longer Island Line Trail. Also known as the Colchester Causeway, this is a 13.4-mile rail trail that extends all the way to the Champlain Islands. At one point along the route, you will find yourself on a narrow strip of land with lake views all around you. It’s pretty epic.

14. Visit the Vermont Teddy Bear Factory

A visit to the iconic  Vermont Teddy Bear Factory  is one of the  best things to do in Vermont with kids . Vermont Teddy Bear is located in Shelburne, just south of Burlington. Kids will have a blast creating their own special bear: the ultimate Vermont souvenir!

15. Visit the baby animals at Billings Farm and Museum

Billings Farm and Museum  is a must-see Woodstock, Vermont attraction. A working and historic farm, boasting animals such as dairy cows, draft horses, sheep, as well as many hands-on activities, this is quintessential Vermont. Time your visit for the springtime and you may be in luck to be there for the annual Baby Farm Animal Celebration, which is just as cute as it sounds.

PS: Also don’t miss the adjacent Marsh-Billings-Rockefeller National Historical Park. This is a beautiful spot with nature trails, a Victorian mansion, and more.

🌸Read my best advice on things to do in Vermont in spring !

16. See where Robert Frost wrote some of his most famous poems

Robert Frost, widely known for his nature-inspired poetry and vivid New England descriptions, is one of the most well-known poets in American history. In fact, he was once the poet laureate of the Green Mountain State. In Shaftsbury, VT, visit the  Stone House Museum , historic buildings where the poet once lived and where he wrote several of his classic works, including “Stopping By Woods on a Snowy Evening.” PS: The current VT Poet Laureate is Mary Ruefle, who resides in nearby Bennington. Interestingly, that is the same town in which Robert Frost is buried. You can visit his grave in the cemetery at the Old Fist Church, Bennington.

Want to check out more things to do in the Bennington VT area ?

17. Tour the Rock of Ages Quarry – the biggest granite quarry in the world

The 600-foot deep  Rock of Ages Granite Quarry  (also known as Smith Quarry) located in Barre, Vermont is “the largest operating deep-hole, dimension granite quarry in the world.” And you can tour it!

If you’re looking for things to do in central Vermont, you may want to add a tour to this incredible quarry itinerary. Among things to do onsite is to bowl a game or two on their outdoor granite bowling lane; this is certainly one of the most unique places to visit in Vermont!

18. Go skiing at Stowe Mountain Resort

 Yes, there are things to do in Vermont in winter besides skiing, but can you really go on a Vermont vacation and not hit the slopes? Skiing is one of the most fun  things to do in Vermont in the winter , and should definitely be added to your VT bucket list! While you could hit the fresh pow’ at any of Vermont’s best mountain resorts , Stowe Mountain Resort is a terrific choice. This is a perfect place for a Vermont ski vacation, and it’s in a gorgeous area of the state.

Not interested in cruising downhill? Cross country skiing might be more your speed, and there are lots of awesome spots to do so in Vermont.

19. Visit a local farmer’s market

Farmer’s markets are extremely popular in Vermont, offering a chance to support the local food scene and serving up some of the best shopping in Vermont. In Burlington, the farmer’s market is held on Saturdays all summer long. If your trip to Vermont doesn’t coincide with a farmer’s market, you may be able to find a roadside farmstand selling fresh produce. They’re everywhere in Vermont in the warmer months.

20. Taste pure maple syrup from where it’s made best

Vermont is home of the world’s best maple syrup (though we can’t compete with Canada when it comes to quantity produced!) While you travel Vermont, be sure to sample some of this liquid gold. A sugarhouse like  Morse Farm Maple Sugarworks , in  Montpelier , is the perfect place to do so. You can sample maple syrup, find tons of maple-infused products, and learn how the syrup-making process works.

If you’re looking for things to do in Vermont in March, you’re just in time for sugaring season! Don’t miss the chance to try sugar on snow, a classic Vermont winter treat. There are also numerous other  Vermont sugar houses  you can check out; this is definitely on the list of fun activities in Vermont!

21. Spend time on a working farm: The Fat Sheep Farm

A Vermont farm stay is an amazing way to experience life on the farm, Vermont-style. There are a number of places you can do this by joining in for chores, learning about animals, crops, and more. My favorite is  Fat Sheep Farm.  My husband and I loved our stay there and definitely recommend the experience if you’re looking for more things to do near Woodstock!

22. Visit the top of the Bennington Battle Monument

Interested in historic sites? If you find yourself in Southern Vermont, you won’t want to miss the Bennington Battle Monument. And in fact, it’s hard TO miss, standing at 306ft and 4.5 inches tall! This iconic obelisk structure is visible for miles around. This also means that when you head to the top, you’re in for some sensational views of the surrounding Green Mountains.

23. Catch some fantastic live theatre

Vermont is a very artistic state; a culturally-happening place. Personally, I’m a big fan of Vermont theatre. The best place to catch a Broadway-caliber performance is at the  Weston Playhouse.  Some of the finest shows I’ve ever seen in my life were ones I’ve seen there, and this is one of those activities in Vermont where you can get a little dressed up and go show off for a while!

24. Drive to the top of Mt. Equinox

No list of beautiful places to visit in Vermont would be complete without  Mount Equinox in southwestern Vermont. Sitting at over 3,800 feet above sea level, it is the highest peak in the Taconic Mountains and the second highest mountain in the state. You can drive to the summit of Mount Equinox via Skyline Drive, the longest privately owned, paved toll road and one of the safest, best engineered toll roads in the United States.

But, while the 5-mile drive to the top offers outstanding views, the summit is the true showstopper. The summit of Mount Equinox is known for providing an astounding 360-degree view of the surrounding Green Mountains and Champlain Valley of Vermont, White Mountains of New Hampshire, Adirondack Mountains of New York, and Berkshire Mountains of Massachusetts.

25. Explore the Shelburne Museum

Shelburne Museum is an absolute gem and a must-visit on any Vermont itinerary, especially for those who appreciate a deep dive into history and culture. Located in the charming town of Shelburne, just a short drive from Burlington, this museum is not your typical indoor gallery. It’s an expansive, open-air museum that beautifully blends art, history, and architecture across its 45 acres.

Imagine wandering through over 39 distinct structures, each offering a unique glimpse into America’s past. From a steamboat to a lighthouse, historic houses to barns, the museum captivates with its diverse collection. And it’s not just about buildings; the museum boasts an impressive array of folk art, quilts, and even a carousel!

26. Check out the Old Round Church

Round buildings are really interesting, and Vermont is home to a few. The Old Round Church in Richmond is a historic site, and checking it out is one of my favorite cool things to do in Vermont. Technically not “round,” the Old Round Church is a sixteen-sided town meeting hall and place of worship built in 1812-1813. It’s definitely worth a visit, simply because it is so unique and photogenic, but also essential for history buffs.

27. Stop at Vermont Cookie Love when driving Route 7

If you have any kind of sweet tooth, you must go to Vermont Cookie Love. I’ve driven that road hundreds of times and the possibility of chocolatey goodness never fails to entice me. Located along Route 7 in North Ferrisburgh, the home of Vermont Cookie Love, aka the Love Shack, is waiting for you, too! What could be better than a fresh, warm cookie? These are baked with love (and consumed with abandon—at least in this house!)

28. Sail aboard a Lake Champlain day cruise

Lake Champlain is one of the top things to see in Vermont, and if you can get out on the water, all the better. If renting a boat or paddling a kayak isn’t your style, I suggest jumping aboard a Lake Champlain ferry or on a day cruise. There are several options for scenic cruises and boat rentals on Lake Champlain, and the experience is relaxing and fun; def one of the top Lake Champlain activities!

29. Explore Wilson Castle, a 19th-century castle

Did you know Vermont has some castles? Years ago, I visited one of Vermont’ hidden gems: Wilson Castle. While this “technically” is not a castle, it’s a pretty awesome mansion located in Proctor, Vermont, close to the city of  Rutland , and definitely on the list of things to do in central Vermont. Guided tours are offered.

30. Visit Bingham Falls

One of the prettiest places in Vermont Stowe’s  Bingham Falls  in the Mount Mansfield State Forest. Bingham Falls is a popular tourist destination, owing to its stunning 40-foot cascading waterfall and deep gorges. There are two commonly used trails to reach the falls. The shorter .5-mile long Bingham Falls Trail is steeper, emerging at the base of the falls. The longer but easier 1.3-mile Mill Trail has several offshoots leading to picturesque views of the falls from various angles. It’s location in Smuggler’s Notch State Park makes this is a can’t miss gorgeous Vermont location!  Read More:  Amazing Waterfalls in Vermont

31. Get spooked at Emily’s Bridge

 Vermont covered bridges are fascinating and historical, and some of them may also be haunted! Such is the case for the infamous Emily’s Bridge located in Stowe. Legend has it that Emily died at the bridge, hanging herself after being jilted by her lover. Tales from visitors report things like scratches appearing on their car, banging sounds on the car when stopping on the bridge, and even bloody scratches found on the skin of pedestrians crossing the bridge.

I didn’t get any scratches when walking over it, but I did get a creepy feeling! This is considered to be one of the most haunted places in VT.

32. Go biking on the Kingdom Trails

Mountain bikers will love the vast network of Kingdom Trails in East Burke, VT. These are some of the best mountain biking trails in the US, and they are set among the spectacular scenery of Vermont’s Northeast Kingdom. If you’re looking for places to go in VT to get away from it all, this might be what you’re looking for!

33. Visit the Vermont State House

 Go to Vermont’s capital city Montpelier and keep heading toward the golden-domed state house. Self-guided tours are available year-round so you can get a firsthand look at big activity in this small state! Fun fact: for many years, Montpelier had the distinction of being the only state capital in the United States without a McDonald’s!

34. Check out the Calvin Coolidge State Historic Site

 If you’re a presidential history buff and looking for where to visit in Vermont, check out the home of American president, Calvin Coolidge. In Plymouth, VT, visitors will find his childhood home, where he took his presidential oath of office. In addition to being an important historic site, the whole center comprises “over 600 bucolic acres” of a timeless Vermont village filled with original artifacts. This includes a one-room schoolhouse, barns, a cheese factory, and the hillside cemetery where President Coolidge is buried.  The Calvin Coolidge State Historic Site  is open this year beginning May 26th, 2023 through October 22, 2023.

35. Photograph the fall foliage

Who can resist those iconic Vermont fall colors?! Of course, VT boasts scenic splendor year round, but fall in Vermont fall is truly the most magical time, with its vibrant foliage framing colonial villages, white-steepled churches, and covered bridges. Grab your camera and make plans to visit Vermont in the fall. There’s a scenic shot waiting around every corner.

36. Dine at a farm-to-table restaurant

We take farm-to-table seriously in Vermont. There’s a strong culture of eating local and supporting farmers, and restaurants do this in all parts of the state. While there are countless farm-to-table options in Vermont, you must visit  Cloudland Farm  which is a culinary experience unto itself.

37. Find serenity in nature at Lake Willoughby

Venture into the Northeast Kingdom during your Vermont visit and you will find the majestic Lake Willoughby. Bordered by high, steep cliffs, the lake looks almost like a Nordic fjord. This is a perfect spot to get away from it all and really enjoy Vermont’s nature at its best.

38. Admire Quechee Gorge from above

Speaking of Vermont scenery, one of the most interesting natural sites in the state is Quechee Gorge. You might wonder, “ what’s so special about a gorge? ” But it really is worth stopping to see. Park in the visitor center lot and walk carefully out onto the sidewalk on the bridge overlooking the gorge. Unparalleled Vermont views are to be seen on both sides.

39. Visit the Morgan Horse Farm

Did you know that Vermont’s State Animal is the Morgan Horse? See where they’ve been bred and trained since 1878 (the oldest continuous breeding herd) at the  Morgan Horse Farm  in Middlebury. The Morgan Horse Farm is open each summer from May until October.

40. Bring your canine pal to Dog Mountain

One of the quirkier Vermont tourist attractions out there is  Dog Mountain . If you haven’t yet been to this canine mecca, add it to your Vermont itinerary. Dog Mountain is a private mountaintop spot in St. Johnsbury that belonged to artist Stephen Huneck. Today, it houses a gallery and a dog chapel, hosting several events throughout the year. Dogs are always welcome on the property to run free and enjoy the sights alongside their human companions; this is one of those fun tourist spots in Vermont where you can bring your furry friends, too!

41. Visit Vermont’s oldest general store

The Green Mountain State has many picturesque general stores that should be on your list of Vermont places to visit. While you have to visit the well-known Vermont Country Store, nothing compares to an old-fashioned, historic general store. Many of these claim to be the oldest in Vermont. I am partial to believe the oldest is  FH Gillingham and Sons  in Woodstock. No matter its age, it is incredibly charming—and they also have a great wine selection.

42. Eat as much Cabot cheese as you can stomach

Could there be a more quintessential Vermont option for Vermont things to do? Vermont once claimed that it had more cows than people living in the state, so it’s no surprise that we make excellent dairy products.

Cabot Cheese is one of the most famous, and with good reason. It’s fairly easy to find Cabot Cheese throughout the state, but you can sample loads of the stuff if you visit The  Cabot Farmers’ Store  in Waterbury. If you are looking for the tastiest things to do in VT, you can try dozens of flavors of Cabot cheese there. 

Read Next: Exploring the  Vermont Cheese Trail

43. Drink a maple latte

 This might not be on other lists of VT things to do, but it is certainly an essential item on mine! I’m a huge coffee drinker and there’s nothing quite so good as a hot, steaming latte. In Vermont, flavors like vanilla and hazelnut are passé. Instead, have your latte with a shot of pure Vermont maple syrup. I promise you it’s as wonderful as it sounds, and you can find this delicious beverage all over the state. As of 2023, the best maple latte I’ve had in Vermont was from  Brio Coffeeworks  in Burlington!

44. Ride the gondola to the top of Mount Mansfield

I’ve mentioned Stowe several times already in this guide, because I think it is the best place to vacation in Vermont. And while you’re in Stowe, you can’t miss riding to the peak of Mount Mansfield.

Mount Mansfield is the tallest mountain in Vermont. While it’s home to many exciting ski trails come winter, in the summer and fall, visitors can ascend to the top in the iconic red Gondola SkyRide. This is such an easy and fun way to get to the top of Mt. Mansfield, and you’ll be rewarded with fantastic views. I highly recommend riding the Stowe gondola in the fall for the most breathtaking foliage views!

45. Take a horse-drawn sleigh ride in the winter

Speaking of Stowe, it’s a great place to take a snowy Vermont sleigh ride. The Trapp Family Lodge in Stowe is an excellent and incredibly scenic spot for this bucket list winter activity.

46. Browse Northshire Bookstore

One of my favorite places to visit in Vermont is in Manchester. Northshire Bookstore is a massive, adorable independent bookstore that is an incredible place to get lost for a few hours. If you love books, it’s heaven. If you love cool Vermont souvenirs, it’s also amazing! One of the standouts of this shop is there incredible 2nd floor, devoted entirely to a Children’s Section. It’s absolutely worth visiting this spot when in Vermont and be sure to support them by buying local!

47. Have a massive, delicious breakfast

 This is a to-do that is not exclusive to Vermont, by any means. But I have never found a better breakfast than the ones I’ve had in Vermont. Truly, a homestyle, country, hearty breakfast with Vermont maple syrup, local blueberries, Cabot butter, and delicious coffee; there’s something so Vermont about this. Take time to dive into a good brunch during your Vermont visit. I’ve got local recommendations all over the site for some of my favorite cities. The Skinny Pancake, specializing in sweet and savory crepes, is one such Vermont breakfast spot. You can find a few locations all over the state!

48. Take a ride on the Green Mountain Railroad

That’s right, you can take a scenic train ride on the  Green Mountain Railroad ! If you’re looking for what to see and do in Vermont that will give you a little taste of the area, consider doing a 3-hour round trip Champlain Valley Dinner Train ride. Not only will you get to enjoy the gorgeous Vermont scenery, but the 3 course gourmet dinner isn’t so bad, either!

49. Check out the Vermont Country Store

I believe visiting the Vermont Country Store is a quintessential Vermont experience. This charming and nostalgia-filled store will transport you back in time with its collection of goods, from classic toys to artisanal cheeses. You definitely won’t leave empty handed.

50. Eat a maple creemee

My last item on the list is the incredible maple creemee. The Vermont creemee is Vermont’s version of soft-serve ice cream. The best flavor is—-you guessed it—-maple. You can find amazing creemees all over the state in the summertime. Here are the spots I’d definitely recommend checking out:

• Morse Farm – Montpelier
• April’s Maple – Canaan
• Palmer Lane – Jericho

FAQ About Vermont

What’s the best time of year to visit vermont.

The best time to visit Vermont is in the summer and fall. While Vermont is lovely throughout the year, most visitors find late May through October to be best for comfortable weather. To enjoy the best of fall leaves in New England, you’ll want to plan your Vermont trip for mid-September through early October.

For my personal recommendation, I find Vermont in May to be the best time to visit, as it is truly gorgeous. The green of summer is just starting to pop and the weather is growing warmer every day. It’s my little secret Vermont travel tip. Except now you know, too. Oops!

What is the prettiest town in Vermont?

There are so many beautiful destinations in Vermont, I would be hard-pressed to pick the most beautiful! But some of the prettiest towns in Vermont include Stowe, Woodstock, and Manchester.

What’s the best way to get to Vermont?

While you can certainly drive to Vermont from many locations in the US, most travelers opt to fly. The best place to fly into Vermont is the Burlington International Airport (BTV). This is the major airport in Vermont and is convenient to many of Vermont’s top destinations.

What is the best way to get around Vermont?

The best way to explore Vermont is by car, as it offers flexibility to visit various attractions, especially in rural areas. Public transportation options are very limited outside major towns.

What is the weather like in Vermont?

Vermont has a wet continental climate that features cold winters, warm summers and precipitation all year round. In plain language, that means Vermont gets hot in the summer (sometimes super hot) and very cold in the winter. There is a true 4-season climate in Vermont, although some say Mud Season is it’s own entity, but the winters do seem to last long. The weather and temperatures in April can be quite variable.

What should I pack for a trip to Vermont?

Packing in Vermont depends on the season. Warm clothes and snow gear are essential in winter, while summers call for lighter attire. Always bring comfortable shoes for outdoor activities. My advice is always to pack layers. The weather can change throughout the day, even in summer, and layers ensure you can easily adjust what you’re wearing.

What is Vermont known for?

Vermont is known for its maple syrup, cheese, pastoral landscapes, progressive culture, and its fall foliage, among many other things. Read more all about the things Vermont is known for .

More places to explore in Vermont:

• 9 Incredible Things to do in Chester VT
• 10 Exciting Things to do in Stratton Vermont
• 10 Best Things to do in Wilmington, Vermont
• 20 Fun Things to Do in Rutland VT

Need more for planning your Vermont vacation? Read these next!

• Guide to Seeing the 2024 Solar Eclipse in Burlington VT
• 8 Charming Airbnbs in Vermont for an Amazing Stay
• 11 Scrumptious Bakeries in Vermont for Sweet Lovers
• Top 5 Places to go Dog Sledding in Vermont
• 12 Amazing Antique Stores in Vermont
• 10 Best Pumpkin Patches in Vermont

New England Wanderlust

Spring , Vermont  ·  January 8, 2024

Spring In Vermont: What To Expect & 15 Fun Things To Do! (2024)

Vermont is, of course, known for its fall foliage and winter ski resorts, but you may be wondering about the other seasons, too. If you’re especially curious about spring in Vermont, you’ve come to the right place! Having visited Vermont in the spring season many times, I’m here to share with you what to expect, if it’s a good time of year to visit, where to go, and also, some suggestions on really fun things to do.

So, let’s get right to it, shall we?

New England Wanderlust contains affiliate links, and is a member of the Amazon Services LLC Associates Program. We may earn a commission from any purchases you choose to make from our links, at no additional cost to you. For more information, please refer to our  Privacy Policy .

What Is Vermont Like In The Spring?

Much like the rest of New England, Vermont during the spring tends to be one of the least touristed seasons, mostly because it’s a season of transition. Vermont tends to stay colder and hold on to winter for longer than many other places around the region, too, so snow can linger longer, and it can feel like winter well into the spring.

In the first part of spring, scenery tends to be the least photogenic because the trees are not yet in bloom, and mud season is in full swing once the snow begins to melt. Not sure what mud season is? I’m happy to help 😊 Mud season is the time between winter and mid spring when the melting snow creates lots of … well, mud. Parks, woods, hiking trails, and such will be pretty muddy, and that tends to contribute to the less than idyllic scenery.

The second half of spring is what you’re likely envisions this time of the year. The trees and flowers begin to bloom, there’s a better chance of nicer weather, and the state begins its transition from mud season to early summer.

All that said, there are also some really great reasons to visit this time of the year! For one, this is not a busy time to visit, so you’ll see fewer crowds at all the popular destinations and attractions. Secondly, you’ll find much cheaper rates for accommodations, especially in April and the first half of May.

Also, Vermont doesn’t experience a lot of seasonal closures like the coastal regions of New England, so while places along the coast in this region may still be closed in April and parts of May, most of Vermont is open and ready for you to visit!

Generally, I recommend visiting Vermont in the spring season between mid-May once mud season starts to wrap up, and the first two weeks of June. But let’s break that down even further …

Vermont In April

April is a tough month in Vermont, and really, all throughout New England. I’ve grown to love it over the years because it’s the official start of the spring reawakening, but it does come with a lot of rain, possibly some snow, and the weather can be all over the place.

Generally, this is the least popular time to visit of all the spring months just because of the weather being tricky. This is the month where lingering snow is a possibility, including the occasional light snow fall early in the month, and mud season is in full swing.

That said, there are some really nice days in April, too! April is usually when the state will see its first true “spring like” days with warmer weather and sunshine. The daffodils will also begin to bloom to add some color to the scenery, and some greenery will begin to rebound from the winter season.

This will also be the cheapest and least crowded time to visit Vermont in the spring, and if you’re willing to work with some finicky weather, this might be a good time for you to visit to save some money!

Average weather in Vermont in April: Day time high’s average around 55°F, and night time low’s average around 40°F.

Vermont in April quick guide : The cheapest and least crowded of the spring months, but the trade-off is riskier weather, the possibility of snow earlier in the month, and cooler temperatures. Daffodils begin to bloom to show signs of spring’s arrival.

Vermont In May

May is a great spring month to experience Vermont. The weather continues to improve, and typically offers fewer days of rain than April, and some warmer days. It’s also still an affordable time to visit, with fewer crowds, but the exception will of course be Memorial Day weekend – definitely plan crowds if you visit during this time!

The general atmosphere and scenery begins to really come back to life in May in Vermont, and you’ll find tulips and other spring flowers in bloom, and a lot more greenery as trees have bloomed. The weather is also not too hot in May, which makes for wonderful hiking temperatures. And while Vermont still experiences rain in May, it’s not as much as April, so getting outside is more likely.

Average weather in Vermont in May: Day time high’s average around 65-70°F, and night time low’s average around 45-50°F.

Vermont in May quick guide : Still not a busy time to visit, with affordable pricing (except Memorial Day weekend), and the overall atmosphere feels more like spring with color and greenery in bloom. Fewer rain days and mild temperatures makes for comfortable outdoors activities.

Vermont In June

June is the best month to visit in the spring season if you’re hoping for summery weather. This is the month during the season when you’ll experience the most sunny days and warmest weather, but it’s not usually as hot as July and August.

Because of this, June will be the busiest month during the spring, and hotel prices will begin to rise a bit. However, compared to popular coastal destinations in New England, hotel rates will be a lot more reasonable in June in Vermont, and it still doesn’t feel overly crowded.

Because of the nice weather June brings, this is a great time to explore the lakes around Vermont, and spend a lot of time outside.

Average weather in Vermont in June: Day time high’s average around 75°F, and night time low’s average around 60-65°F.

Vermont in June quick guide : The nicest of all the spring months because of the best weather. Crowds and prices are higher than April and May, but still doesn’t feel too crowded or overly expensive.

*Keep in mind that weather averages are truly averages, and can vary based on where in the state you visit. The mountains and northern regions will be a bit cooler than the southern regions.

Where To Go In Vermont In The Spring

There really isn’t one place in Vermont that’s better to visit in the spring season, so I recommend visiting popular places that can otherwise be very crowded other times of the year. Here are my recommendations of some of the places around Vermont that are worth the hype, and that will be less crowded in the spring than ski and foliage seasons:

Woodstock : This tops everyones lists of best places to visit in Vermont, and for very good reason. It’s one of the most idyllic towns in all of New England, and while it’s small, it’s also packed with so much to do, while feeling like a cozy getaway year-round.

Woodstock is home to a wonderful town center with beautiful independent shops, fantastic cafés and restaurants, and even a beautiful covered bridge. You can easily spend an afternoon walking the picturesque side streets and around town center.

But Woodstock is also home to Billings Farm, which hosts a fun spring event I mention later in this post 😉, as well as Sugarbush Farms for some local syrup and cheese tastings.

Stowe : Also known as one of the most quaint and charming towns in Vermont, it’s probably the most popular fall foliage destination in New England. However, in the spring season, you’ll be able to avoid the biggest crowds, shop the boutiques along the adorable Main Street, enjoy the covered bridges, and hike around Smugglers Notch State Park (weather depending, of course!).

Burlington : As Vermont’s biggest city, Burlington offers so much to do year-round, and is always worth a visit. Perfect for the spring time because of plenty of options both indoors and outdoors, there’s a great brewery and dining scene here, gorgeous views of Lake Champlain, and lots of awesome shopping and art galleries.

Manchester : In southern Vermont, Manchester is another charming town that’s great for a spring visit. Home to Hildene, The Lincoln Family Home, there’s history to explore, great shopping, character, and perfect New England scenery all around.

Fun Things To Do In Vermont In The Spring

1. experience maple open house weekend.

Just after the official arrival of spring, the Maple Open House Weekend in Vermont typically takes place the last weekend in March, or the first weekend in April (and recently, both weekends!). While the weather is more likely to be chilly and snowy, this is definitely something to have on your spring radar!

To celebrate sugaring season, lots of sugar houses throughout the state open their doors to visitors to sample their syrups, offer demonstrations, and sell their maple products. Additionally, you’ll find other festivities taking place, including a pancake breakfast, horse-drawn wagon rides, and lots more.

This is a great event to attend to support small businesses, and also, immerse yourself into the time-honored tradition of sugaring in Vermont. Additionally, you’ll find all kinds of products infused with maple, so you’ll probably want to plan extra room in your suitcase to bring everything home 😊

2. Baby Animal Days At Billings Farm

Probably the cutest thing to experience in Vermont in the spring season is Baby Animal Days at Billings Farm & Museum . With the return of spring comes new animals at the farm, and Billings does such a great job allowing visitors to learn all about them.

Get the chance to pet and hold baby farm animals, while touring once of the best rural farming museums in the entire country. The weekend is also packed with other fun things to experience, including food trucks, the opening of their ice cream stand, kid’s crafts, and more. It’s definitely one of the best weekends of the year to visit the farm!

3. Get Your Last Few Ski Days In

Like many ski destinations in New England, the spring season brings the end of ski days. But if you’re looking for a place to hit the slopes through the end of April, Vermont has you covered. Ski resorts that typically stay open through most, or all of April are :

• Mad River Glen

Some resorts like Killington and Sugarbush may even be open the first week in May – it varies from year to year.

If you’re a fan of skiing, you may also want to check out the Stowe Sugar Slalom , which typically takes place in early April. Held at the Stowe Ski Resort, this event celebrates the beginning of spring by encouraging skiers to hit the slopes in spring-themed costumes, and participate in races.

You’ll also find fun food, music, a Mardi Gras vibe, and lots more fun during the event.

4. Enjoy Spring At Hildene

Not only is Hildene, The Lincoln Family Home , one of the best places to see in Vermont, it hosts a variety of events in the spring, including nature walks, bird-watching workshops, and yep – more baby animals!

If you can’t make it up to Woodstock for Baby Animal Days, Hildene has you covered. Typically in mid-April, the estate opens its barn doors and allow visitors to meet the newest additions to the farm, including baby goats, lambs, alpacas, chickens, and rabbits.

Throughout the spring, you can also take part in the nature walks and bird-watching workshops mentioned above, and enjoy the stunning grounds around the estate as everything begins to bloom and come back to life.

5. Savor The Flavors Of The Season

Vermont has such an incredible farm-to-table culinary scene, and most restaurants around the state make an effort to support local farmers, and serve what’s in season. Spring is no exception!

In the spring season, asparagus, carrots, rhubarb, peas, parsnips, and strawberries are all in season Vermont. It’s such a treat to book a table at a nice restaurant to see what kinds of creative dishes chefs around the state are coming up with that highlight these ingredients.

6. Pick Up A Spring Bouquet Of Flowers

If you live in a four-season climate, you know how exciting the first flowers of the year are, and spring has especially colorful and cheerful blooms that easily brighten up your decor. Tulips, daffodils, ranunculus, and hyacinth all grow well in Vermont, and flower farmers around the state begin to offer bouquets of these lovely flowers as early as April.

Von Trapp Flowers is a well-known tulip flower farmer in Vermont, and they send their freshly cut tulip bouquets to shops all over the state, including the Woodstock Farmers Market shops in Woodstock and Stowe. The bouquet pictured above was purchased from Von Trapp!

Wilder Flowers is a great farmer that has a great little self-service flower cart that typically opens at the end of April, and features gorgeous bouquets and arrangements of spring flowers. They even come in a cute little mason jar that comes with the bouquet.

7. Explore The Waterfalls

Spring is a great time to explore Vermont’s waterfalls because the melting snow and increased rain allows for a good water flow and more impactful falls!

And did you know that Vermont is home to at least 100 waterfalls? Some require a hike to get to, and some are easily seen from the road or a walkway, so there are tons of options when it comes to admiring waterfalls.

Some of the best to see in Vermont are:

• Moss Glen Falls in Stowe, which is the tallest in Vermont!
• Thundering Falls in Killington
• Lye Brook Falls in Manchester
• Texas Falls in Hancock
• Bingham Falls in Stowe
• Buttermilk Falls in Ludlow

8. Shop On Church Street Marketplace

Perfect for spring weather so you can enjoy both the outdoors and have the ability to duck into shops if the weather isn’t perfect, Church Street Marketplace is honestly awesome year-round. And I should know, I’ve been in all four seasons!

Spanning four blocks, this pedestrian-only shopping destination is home to a great mix of shops, cafés, restaurants, distilleries, and so much more. The shopping here is great, and you can find some really unique things, it’s just fun to walk around, and also makes for a great photo opp.

9. Stock Up On Easter Chocolates

One of my favorite things about Vermont is its chocolate shops, and while you can enjoy these delicious treats year-round, spring is a great excuse to stock up for the Easter holiday if you celebrate.

Chocolatiers and specialty chocolate shops around the state will begin creating awesome Easter and spring-themed treats that are perfect for Easter baskets, hostess gifts, or let’s be honest … to eat right away 😉

Some of my favorites in Vermont to check out are:

• Lake Champlain Chocolates (locations in Burlington, Waterbury, and Stowe)
• Snowflake Chocolates in South Burlington
• NU Chocolate in Burlington
• Burke Mountain Confectionery
• Middlebury Sweets

10. Enjoy The Covered Bridges

The covered bridges around Vermont are charming year-round, and even in the spring when the scenery isn’t the most idyllic, these little structures are still photo-worthy!

Vermont is home to over 100 covered bridges, and regardless of where you are in the state, chances are you’re not far from one. While most of the covered bridges don’t ever see huge crowds (unless it’s in a popular town like Woodstock or Stowe), the spring season is pretty much guaranteed you’ll hardly see any others around when you visit.

Some of my personal favorite covered bridges around Vermont are:

• Middle Covered Bridge in Woodstock (this one can get crowded, but not usually during spring!)
• Henry Covered Bridge in Bennington
• Red Covered Bridge in Morristown
• Emily’s Covered Bridge in Stowe (also called Gold Brook)
• Arlington Covered Bridge

11. Embrace Mud Season At Farmhouse Pottery

If the weather doesn’t fully cooperate during your spring visit, head inside Farmhouse Pottery’s flagship store in charming Woodstock and get your hands in their own version of mud – clay, that is 😉

But honestly, this is a really fun thing to do year-round, regardless of the weather. The wheel workshops at Farmhouse Pottery include clay for two to make your own special creations to take home, drinks, and an expert-led tutorial by one of their own artisans. Not only is this a fun thing to do with your spouse, partner, or friend, it’s also a great way to spend Mother’s Day with your mom if you’re looking for ideas!

12. Attend The Kingdom Maple Festival

The town of St. Johnsbury celebrates all things spring and maple during their Kingdom Maple Festival in April each year.

Featuring a pancake breakfast, yard and bake sales, performances, kid’s events, and a street fair, this is the perfect way to welcome the spring season. You’ll also find that restaurants throughout town are infusing more maple into their menus, so be sure to scope out menus ahead of time and pick where you want to go because everything always sounds so delicious!

13. Enjoy Memorial Day Festivities All Over

Memorial Day is most definitely the most popular spring celebration all over the U.S., and Vermont is no exception! So many towns throughout the state put on their own festivities for the weekend, and include parades, fireworks, food vendors, music, and tons more.

Some towns that have some really fun events or parades to check out are:

14. Cruise Around Lake Champlain

Starting in May, tours aboard the Spirit of Ethan Allen open back up, and the boat sets sail around the biggest lake in New England – Lake Champlain!

Touring around Shelburne Bay and the Vermont’s shorelines, you’ll get to enjoy the natural beauty of the state from a different perspective out on the water. During a spring cruise, be sure to dress accordingly, as the air out on the water is always chillier than land. Definitely bring a jacket or sweater (or both, depending on the weather) so you stay comfortable.

Offering all different kinds of cruise options, including sunset cruises, scenic narrated options, champagne brunches cruises, and dinner cruises, you’ll be able to find the perfect cruise that suits your plans, too!

15. Get Your First Maple Creemee Of The Season!

One of the most famous foods to come out of Vermont is the maple creemee, which is basically soft serve ice cream infused with local maple syrup. Everyone looks forward to their first creemee of the season, and honestly, we usually get them even when the weather is still cool 😉

While the maple creemee flavor is the most popular, many places will offer different flavors to choose from, depending on the season, so if you’re not a fan of maple, no worries!

Here are some great places around Vermont to get a creemee:

• Canteen Creemee Company in Waitsfield
• Palmer Lane Maple in Jericho
• Arlington Dairy Bar
• Vermont Maple Market in Middlebury
• Creemee Stand in Wilmington
• Little Gordo Creemee Stand in Burlington

More Of My Vermont Travel Guides:

• The Absolute Best Things To Do In Vermont
• Cool Things Vermont Is Known For
• Vermont In The Fall: Best Foliage Places & Things To Do
• Best Places To Stay In Vermont In The Fall
• A Perfect Vermont Covered Bridges Road Trip Itinerary
• Visiting Vermont In The Winter
• Fun Things To Do In Waterbury, VT
• Best Time To Visit Vermont

You may also enjoy some of these spring guides:

• Maine In The Spring Season
• New England In The Spring: Where To Go & What To Do!
• Where To See Cherry Blossoms In Boston
• My Guide & Tips For The Nantucket Daffodil Festival

That’s A Wrap On Visiting Vermont In The Spring

And there you have it! Now you’ve got the inside scoop on what Vermont in the spring is like, and if it’s worth visiting for you. While spring gets off to a rocky start weather-wise, there are some really fund events that take place throughout the entire season that are really fun to experience. And, of course, those cheaper hotel rates and fewer crowds make this a good time to visit for many. Happy planning!

You might also enjoy

Subscribe To My Newsletter

• Privacy Policy
• Terms & Conditions
• Disclosure Policy

Touropia Travel

Discover the World

10 Best Places to Visit in Vermont

By Carl Austin · Last updated on October 3, 2023

Vermont is a state that begs to be photographed. The entire state is like a gigantic picture postcard that is filled with scenic beauty at every turn, historic buildings and towns that are considered some of the prettiest in the United States.

Fall is a delight as the leaves turn their gorgeous colors. Winter is great for skiing and snow activities. Spring and summer offer a plethora of festivals and outdoor activities, such as camping and hiking. Yep, Vermont’s got it all. Here’s a look at the best places to visit in Vermont:

10. Woodstock

When you hear Woodstock, your first thought is probably of the famous music festival. You’d be wrong: wrong state. Vermont’s Woodstock is far, far from a rock festival. It’s a sleepy village that has been described as quaint meets charming.

This picture postcard village is considered one of the prettiest small towns in America, and has the plaque to prove it. It’s a place to drive over a picturesque red covered bridge, visit a sugar maple farm, breathe in the crisp air as you hike in the surrounding mountains and shop at unique boutiques and galleries.

9. Quechee Gorge

Quechee Gorge is Vermont’s answer to the Grand Canyon. Not as big as its cousin in the distant West, it still provides some pretty views. At 165 feet deep, it is the deepest gorge in the Green Mountain state. The gorge was formed by glacial action 13,000 years ago.

The Ottauquechee River provides exciting whitewater rafting at the bottom. Less adventurous travelers can walk to Mill Pond Falls that cascade down 30 feet. The historic Quechee Gorge Bridge connects the banks. Built in 1911; it is Vermont’s oldest surviving steel arch bridge.

8. Manchester

Manchester has many things going for it. It’s an historic town that makes a good base from which to explore the Green Mountains. It’s got lots of shopping, including outlet malls that attract people from New York and Connecticut .

Named after an English duke of Manchester, the town first made history between 1812 and 1819 for being the home of America’s first wrongful murder conviction case, a case that’s studied even today. Most historic towns in Vermont only have one historic district, but Manchester has three: Depot district, and Bonnet and Main streets.

7. Montpelier

Montpelier has the dubious distinction of being the least populated state capital in the United States. At least it is at night; the daytime population triples as people come to work for the state government. The city is named for a city in France in honor of that country’s contributions during the American Revolution.

Visiting the State House is the No. 1 thing to do in Montpelier, but if you’ve got a sweet tooth, you’ll want to visit a maple sugar/syrup factory. Stop by the statue of Ethan Allen, a Revolutionary War hero and a founder of Vermont.

6. Shelburne

Shelburne is a quiet town seven miles south of Burlington, the Vermont’s largest city. Founded in 1763, it was named for William Petty, earl of Shelburne and British prime minister. It has deep roots in farming, and several farms, including vineyards, are open to the public.

Its most visited attraction, however, just may be one devoted to making your kids happy. Open for tours, the Vermont Teddy Bear Co. has been making cute, cuddly teddy bears since 1981, and is one of Vermont’s more popular attractions. If you like water better, Shelburne is located on Lake Champlain.

5. Killington Resort

If you’re an adventuresome skier, you may want to hit the slopes at Killington Resort on Vermont’s second highest mountain. It’s known as the “beast of the East” because it’s the largest vertical drop in New England. Killington, which opened in 1958, is the largest ski area in the eastern United States.

While Killington Peak is the primary ski area, the resort also offers skiing across six mountains. There are 155 trails that handle skiers from beginners to experts and 21 lifts to carry them up the mountains. A few of the trails have ramps and jumps.

Grafton, considered one of New England’s prettiest towns, got its name in a unique way. Originally known as Thomlinson, the right to rename it garnered $5 and some rum in an action; the winning bidder named it after his home town of Grafton, Massachusetts.

Homes and buildings have been restored to their historic grandeur, so Grafton looks pretty much like It might have a century or two ago. Be sure to check out the Grafton Inn, which has been operating as a hotel since 1801. Standing guard over the village is the iconic White Church that was built in 1858.

3. Champlain Islands

When the outdoors beckons, the Champlain Islands are one of the best places to visit in Vermont. The islands are an archipelago, perhaps a total of 30 miles long, located in Lake Champlain that separates Vermont and New York.

Reachable by ferry, they provide some of the most scenic drives in Vermont, a state that is known for scenic drives. In the summer, you can camp, visit the state’s first vineyard or cycle the scenic Island Line Trail. You can go ice-fishing in the winter. And, best of all, you won’t have to worry about running into a lot of other people since the largest town in the chain counts only 2,000 residents.

Stowe keeps visitors busy all year ‘round. There’s skiing and snow sports in the winter, and festivals, including one featuring balloons, and art shows in the summer. One of the biggest is September’s British Invasion, when fields are filled with all makes and models of British automobiles.

Stowe is a must-visit if you’re a Sound of Music fan. It’s where the von Trapp family settled and operated a ski lodge after they fled Austria during World War II. The lodge’s meadow was a venue for the Vermont Mozart Festival. You can also hike and mountain-bike on nearby trails.

1. Burlington

OK. Admit it. You love ice cream, especially if it’s made by Ben and Jerry. Burlington may be known for many things, but it’s likely most famous as the home of this sinfully delicious ice cream. The town is located on the shores of Lake Champlain, so there are plenty of water activities to burn off those calories.

The four-block pedestrian mall known as Church Street Marketplace hosts a variety of festivals throughout the year. They range from art to celebrating beer and giant pumpkins. It also hosts one of the largest year ‘round farmers markets in Vermont.

Map of Places to Visit in Vermont

Share this post:

21 Best Things to do in Vermont

15 Best Things to do in Maine

10 Best Places to Visit in Rhode Island

15 Most Charming Small Towns in Vermont

10 Best Places to Visit in Connecticut

14 Best Things to do in Stowe, VT

11 Best Things to Do in Burlington, VT

25 Most Beautiful Places in America

6 Beautiful New England States

23 Most Beautiful Islands in the US

Reader interactions.

January 2, 2020 at 11:50 am

Woodstock not listed in voting!!!

Leave a Reply Cancel reply

Your email address will not be published. Required fields are marked *

This site uses Akismet to reduce spam. Learn how your comment data is processed .

20 Top-Rated Attractions & Places to Visit in Vermont

Written by Barbara Radcliffe Rogers Updated Jun 23, 2023

Vermont is equal parts myth and reality, home to a mystique that other states can only envy. A mere mention of its name, and images appear: sunlit meadows of black-and-white cows, dazzling white ski trails, tidy hillside farms, blazing red maple trees along a stone wall, covered bridges , buckets collecting sap for maple syrup.

Certainly these idyllic scenes still exist, although less picturesque plastic tubing has replaced most of the buckets, and many of the farms may now be chic B&Bs where you can stay while sightseeing.

Another Vermont exists alongside this idealized one, represented by bustling Burlington , the outlet malls of Manchester, Killington's frenetic après-ski scene, and Brattleboro's unlikely blend of gritty blue-collar and '70s hippies grown up.

Even the state's mainstay of agriculture has a new look, as dozens of artisanal cheese makers transform Vermont's dairy industry, and tourists eagerly follow the Vermont Cheese Trail to sample them.

Other trails lead to traditional tourist attractions: maple farms boiling sap and welcoming visitors each March, and covered bridges – seven of them in the far northern town of Montgomery alone. You'll enjoy both Vermonts.

I live 20 miles from Brattleboro, Vermont, where I do my shopping at the Farmer's Market and in the locally owned stores on Main Street. My travels frequently take me back and forth across the Connecticut River, which separates my western New Hampshire town from my favorite skiing and hiking trails in Vermont's Green Mountains. I consider both states to be our backyard.

Join me to discover the best things to see and do there, with this list of the top attractions and places to visit in Vermont.

2. Church Street Marketplace

4. mount mansfield and smugglers notch, 5. burlington bike path and waterfront park, 6. vermont's year-round ski resorts, 7. quechee gorge, 8. bennington battle monument and museum, 9. marsh-billings-rockefeller national historic park, 10. lake champlain, 11. billings farm & museum, 12. visit a maple farm, 13. brattleboro farmers' market, 14. ben & jerry's, 15. shelburne museum, 16. fairbanks museum & planetarium, 17. montshire museum of science, 18. rock of ages quarry and hope cemetery, 19. park-mccullough historic governor's mansion, 20. green mountain national forest.

With a covered bridge, white-spired church, weathered barns, and ski trails down the mountainside, Stowe is everybody's image of Vermont. At the foot of Mt. Mansfield and in the heart of the state's snow belt, it's also the town that most personifies the glory days of Vermont's early ski industry, a heritage that's explored here in the Vermont Ski Museum .

Although avid skiers had climbed the mountain long before that, and a rope tow was installed in 1937, things really took off in 1940, when the first chairlift was opened. Stowe Mountain Resort is still one of New England's premier ski destinations, and the gondola that carries skiers in the winter takes sightseers to the summit for more views in the summer and fall.

It's not all about skiing and the mountain; you'll find shops and boutiques, art galleries, dining, and lodging of all sorts. Exhibits of works by Vermont-based artists are shown in the Helen Day Art Center and you can find quality Vermont- and New England-made jewelry, glass and fiber arts at Remarkable Things at Stowe Craft at the beginning of Mountain Road. When hunger strikes, I like to grab a hand-built sandwich at Back Cap Coffee & Bakery on Main St.

You can rent bicycles to ride, or you can walk or skate along the 5.3-mile Stowe Recreation Path , a paved multi-use route through meadows and woods alongside the river, with beautiful views of Mt. Mansfield. The best views of Mt. Mansfield's distinctive profile are from the upper part of the path, which you can access from Thompson Park, on Mountain Road.

You can find things to do here all year, and you'll quickly see why it's considered one of the best small towns in Vermont .

Author's Tip: If your canine friend accompanies you to Stowe, look for the 1.8-mile Quiet Path, a low-impact extension of the Recreation Path, where dogs can run free. You can reach it from Cemetery or Mayo Farm Rd.

In the heart of downtown Burlington , Church Street is only four blocks long, but it forms a wide, traffic-free space for public events and a lively street life even in Vermont's cold winters. Along with the festivals scheduled throughout the year, it's a place for sidewalk cafes, benches, and public artworks, and the buildings alongside it are filled with shops, restaurants, and boutiques. In the summer, when everyone is outdoors, it has the feel of an Italian piazza.

A mural, Everyone Loves a Parade! by Canadian muralist Pierre Hardy decorates a wall, and other artworks include a life-sized statue of a local jazz artist and a fish fountain crafted of metal. It's no wonder this has been named one of the Great Public Spaces in America; it's also listed as a National Register Historic District.

Opposite Church Street, The Flynn Center hosts top performers and musicians, in a state-of-the-art theater.

Author's Tip: For bargains that will astonish you, go downstairs at Outdoor Gear Exchange , part sale and clearance clothing and gear, and part consignment shop. My daughter bought a name-brand jacket there for less than ¼ its original price. So, if you find that your children have outgrown their ski boots or jacket, you could leave them there for sale instead of hauling them home from vacation.

Address: Church Street, Burlington, Vermont

Robert Todd Lincoln, son of the president, visited Manchester with his mother shortly before his father's assassination. After he had become president of Pullman Company, in the early 20th century, he returned to build the Georgian Revival Hildene as his country estate.

Hildene represents a fine example of homes built as retreats for the families of wealthy magnates and is furnished with several pieces from Mrs. Lincoln's family. Personal belongings of President Lincoln include his famous stovepipe hat.

Other highlights are the thousand-pipe 1908 Aeolian organ, in working condition, and the elegant dining room furnished in Queen Anne style. The home remained in the Lincoln family until 1975, thus preserving the original furnishings and memorabilia. The formal gardens on the terrace overlooking the broad valley have been restored from records of original plantings.

If you can, go to Hildene in late May or early June, when the formal garden is filled with more than a thousand bright peonies in full bloom. These blossoms, some the size of dinner plates, fill the air with their heady fragrance. Mesmerized by the peonies and by the view that reaches across the Battenkill Valley to the mountains beyond, I couldn't stop clicking photos.

You can stay in another of these elegant mansions built in Manchester by wealthy industrialists. The Inn at Ormsby Hill , near Hildene, is now an elegant bed-and-breakfast.

Address: 1005 Hildene Road, Manchester, Vermont

Mountain Road climbs out of Stowe and up the shoulder of Mount Mansfield, past Stowe Mountain Resort, where a gondola carries skiers and sightseers to the summit. Beyond the resort, the road narrows to snake through Smugglers' Notch, one of Vermont's most engaging natural attractions.

The road through this pass between Mount Mansfield and Spruce Peak is so tight and narrow as it winds upward that at some curves only a single car can pass through the openings between the giant boulders.

Snowplows can't get through it in the winter, when the road closes just past the ski area. The rest of the year, you can park the car and walk the paths among this massive jumble of glacial rock and discover the caves where 19th-century smugglers once hid.

The caves and gigantic boulders were formed when the glacier stalled here during the last ice age, smashing the mountain ledges and dropping them into the notch, where they were carved and tumbled by more glacial action.

Mansfield is Vermont's highest mountain, and at its top are sweeping views and more than two miles of ridge-top hiking above tree line . This is one of only two places in Vermont where rare arctic-alpine tundra exists. A number of routes reach its summit. The Long Trail crosses Route 108 at the foot of Smugglers' Notch, climbing steadily for 2.3 miles to the ridgeline.

Although the Long Trail traversing the ridgetop is one of the top hiking trails in Vermont , there are easier ways to get to the summit of Mt. Mansfield. Built for skiers, in summer and fall the Gondola SkyRide is a sightseeing attraction, revealing summit views to Lake Champlain, New York's Adirondacks and New Hampshire's White Mountains. The 10-minute ride on the gondola takes you close to the Long Trail, so you can hike the summit part for the best views.

Driving the Auto Toll Road takes about 20 minutes, and from its terminus you can also access trails to the summit ridge, or just enjoy the views from there. The Toll Road isn't scary – there are no vertigo-inducing drop-offs (or I wouldn't drive it) – and a lot better value than the gondola. The Toll Road costs less for a car and up to six passengers than a gondola ticket for one person.

Both the Gondola SkyRide and Auto Toll Road are open through foliage season in the fall.

Close to the point where the Long Trail crosses Route 108 at the base of Smugglers' Notch, Topnotch Resort is a luxurious base for exploring the area, with mountain views, three pools, a full-service spa, and a fine-dining restaurant.

A paved bicycle path borders eight miles of Burlington's Lake Champlain shoreline, extending from Oakledge Park north to the Winooski River. Alongside is a graded path for walkers and runners, with benches at points with the best views across the lake.

The path connects several parks that mark the shoreline, and a boardwalk forms a promenade along the central section. Here, you'll find the ECHO Leahy Center for Lake Champlain and Vermont's only All-America Display Garden , where flowering ornamental plants bloom through summer and fall.

Waterfront Park is the site of several festivals in the summer, and picnic tables along the route invite a lakeside lunch. In the spring, the path is lined by brilliant blooming azaleas and at any time of year, this is Vermont's best spot for watching the spectacular sunsets over Lake Champlain .

From the slopes of Mount Snow in the south to Jay Peak in the north, skiing extends the entire length of Vermont. Some of the top ski resorts in the east are here, and the state's nearly two dozen ski mountains offer downhill ski experiences for everyone, from young children and beginners to experts training for the Olympics. State-of-the-art snowmaking and grooming keeps slopes and trails in top condition from December through March.

Winter isn't the only time you can enjoy Vermont's ski resorts , however. The larger ones have on-mountain activities all year, offering mountain slides, rope courses, mountain biking, and scenic rides on the lifts that carry skiers to the summits in the winter. Resorts at the base have spas, swimming pools, Segway rides, golf, and activities for all ages.

Okemo Mountain Resort has the Timber Ripper Mountain Coaster; a spa; a mountain bike park; scenic chairlift rides; disc and miniature golf; and the Haulback Challenge Course, an aerial journey from tree to tree. Killington Ski Resort has the Beast Mountain Coaster, a ropes course, and an Adventure Center.

Stowe Mountain Resort whisks visitors to the top on the state's only gondola lift, or drivers can ascend to the summit of Mt. Mansfield on the Toll Road. Stratton Mountain has a mountain bike park and a 27-hole championship golf course.

In the winter, each resort has its own individual style and atmosphere that draws its loyal fans. For example, the two major mountains in central Vermont, Okemo and Killington, although close geographically, couldn't be farther apart in style or atmosphere.

Both offer top-quality skiing and boarding, but while Okemo has a family vacation vibe of a mountain ski village, after the lifts close Killington is all about the nightlife and apres-ski scene, with a road lined by evening venues as its nucleus. For me, the important thing is that they both have "bubble" chairlifts with domes to break the mountains' icy winds (as do Stowe and Mount Snow).

Vermont's deepest gorge was formed by glaciers about 13,000 years ago, and has continued to deepen by the constant action of the Ottauquechee River, which you will see flowing 165 feet below. The best place to view Quechee Gorge is from the walkway along the arched iron bridge that carries Route 4 across the top, about 7 miles from Woodstock .

A trail leads through the woods beside the rim to the bottom of the gorge, where you can see the lower part of it from water level. Close to the gorge, also on Route 4, is the excellent Vermont Institute of Natural Sciences (VINS) , a nature center where injured raptors are rehabilitated and returned to the wild.

Address: Route 4, Quechee, Vermont

The 306-foot-high obelisk, visible for miles around, commemorates the 1777 battle fought about five miles west of Bennington, which turned the tide against the British by splitting British General John Burgoyne's forces in half, making the final American victory possible. You can bypass the monument's 412 steps by taking an elevator to the top for views.

The nearby Bennington Museum is best known for its extensive collection of works by primitive folk artist Grandma Moses, along with her schoolhouse painting studio.

The museum is also especially strong in its collections of Bennington pottery, furniture, toys, American glassware, and Victorian quilts. You'll also find fine art and artifacts from the colonial and Civil War periods.

Between the monument and museum, you'll pass the lovely little settlement of Old Bennington with its 1762 Old First Church. In the cemetery behind it is the grave of Robert Frost , and fans of his poetry will want to stop, as I always do, to pay respects. His tombstone is marked with the epitaph he chose for himself: "I had a lover's quarrel with the world."

Address: Route 9, Bennington, Vermont

The only national park to concentrate on land stewardship in America incorporates both a working farm and a Victorian mansion on the hill above, set in formal gardens designed by several of America's foremost landscape architects.

The Queen-Anne-style mansion is decorated with the finest of Victorian artistry, including embossed wallpaper and stained-glass windows by Tiffany & Co. Also displayed in the house is the Rockefellers' collection of works by artists of the Hudson River School.

Both rail magnate Frederick Billings, and later, the Rockefellers were dedicated to land conservation and used this property to put it into practice. You can walk the trails on Mt. Tom, where park rangers can explain forestry practices and help identify trailside plants and trees.

Tours of the art-filled Rockefeller home and grounds include themes of gardening, forestry, and their relationship to conservation.

Note to parents: my kids loved getting their Junior Ranger book at the Carriage Barn Visitor Center and taking a self-guided trip through the Junior Ranger loop. They left proudly wearing their badges (crafted from wood grown in the park). In July and August kids can join special events.

Address: River Road, Woodstock, Vermont

Extending for 120 miles between Vermont and New York, with its northern tip in Canada, Lake Champlain lies mostly in Vermont, and draws visitors for its recreation, wildlife, and historical attractions. Its watershed covers more than 8,000 square miles.

Much of its 587 miles of shoreline are undeveloped; a haven for wildlife; and one of the best places to visit in Vermont for canoeists, kayakers, and sailors. On the Vermont side, 318 species of birds depend on Lake Champlain, and 81 species of fish swim in its waters.

According to Samuel de Champlain, for whom the lake is named, a 20-foot serpent-like creature also swims in the lake. His was the first, but certainly not the last reported sighting of what is now known as " Champy ." You might catch sight of it from one of the several lake cruises, or even from one of the three ferries that cross to the New York side from Charlotte, Burlington, and Grand Isle. ( I have not seen Champy myself, so I'm not making any promises.)

Several wildlife reserves protect its shore and neighboring wetlands, including the Dead Creek WMA , where thousands of migrating snow geese stop to rest in late October. You can learn more about the ecology at the ECHO Leahy Center for Lake Champlain , on the waterfront in Burlington.

The Lake Champlain Maritime Museum , overlooking Basin Harbor in Vergennes, explores the lake's role in the Revolution and War of 1812. You can also visit Mount Independence , an important sister fort to Fort Ticonderoga across the lake in New York, and attacked in July 1777. Learn more at the visitor center and explore the 400-acre site with the help of trail maps with historical notes and descriptions.

Although Champlain doesn't have the quiet intimacy of many lakes in Vermont , you'll find plenty of things to do along its shores and in its waters. Several state parks north of Burlington have sandy beaches. The longest is the 2000-foot beach at Sand Bar State Park , its gently sloping shore good for young children. You can rent boats here and on the beach at Grand Isle State Park.

Except in protected bays, these waters are not for beginning kayakers, but the bays and shoreline campsites of Knight Island State Park make a great adventure for those who can paddle more than 3 miles of open water.

Author's Note: Pay close attention to the weather forecast so you won't be caught, as I once was, in a sudden thunderstorm. Waves and wind can make a lake the size of Champlain seem like mid-ocean.

Spreading across the wide, flat landscape of the Ottauquechee River valley, the Billings Farm & Museum carries on the education mission of Frederick Billings, former owner of the farm and of the forests above that are now part of the national park. Billings created the farm to demonstrate the value of sound environmental practices in raising livestock.

The working farm continues to educate, as well as show what Vermont farming and rural life was like in the days before modern equipment did much of the work. You can tour the farm manager's house and dairy, visit livestock barns, watch cattle milking, make your own butter, and learn other old-fashioned rural skills in hands-on programs.

The small museum shows tools and equipment used in daily farm activities, such as ice-harvesting and maple sugaring, in eye-catching and informative exhibits.

Try to visit in August or early September when the Sunflower House is in full bloom. Each spring, 20,000 square feet of field is planted in more than 100 varieties of sunflower, some growing as tall as 14 feet. Arranged in a circular labyrinth pattern, the flowers are massed by variety, with colors varying from yellow to orange to red; some are as short as 18 inches and others had multiple rows of petals and centers so small they looked more like dahlias.

Address: 69 Old River Road, Woodstock, Vermont

The maple trees that bring a blaze of color to Vermont's autumn landscape also make Vermont the nation's top producer of maple syrup. The time to be here for the complete maple experience is late February through early April, when sugar houses are at full boil and you can sample the golden syrup as it's made.

That's the time for "sugaring off" parties and the chewy candy made by pouring syrup onto snow. Many farms take visitors into the grove – called a sugar bush – by horse-drawn sled or wagon, and some serve hot cider and fresh cider doughnuts.

Two of these farms you can visit at any time of year to learn about the process and sample syrup and other maple products. Morse Farm Maple Sugarworks in Montpelier is an 8th generation family-owned maple syrup farm, where you can sample maple products and see displays on tapping trees and making syrup. The gift shop has a selection of maple goodies and other Vermont-made products. As a bonus, there is an outdoor Vermont farm life museum, too.

At Sugarbush Farm in Woodstock, you can sample two classic Vermont products: maple syrup and cheese. Both are produced at the 3 rd -generation farm, and if there's cheesemaking in process in the dairy, you can watch. The shop also offers samples of jams, mustards, smoked meats, and other locally made delicacies.

Author's Tip: Driving to Sugarbush Farm, you'll feel as though you are heading deeper and deeper into nowhere, but have faith—a series of signs will point you the right way at every intersection. A word of advice, however: without four-wheel drive, don't go in March "mud season."

In a region known for its small farms and agriculture, Brattleboro Farmers' Market is the poster child of farmers markets. More than a place to buy fresh-picked vegetables and fruit from small independent local farmers, it is a social event, a meeting place, a Saturday lunch stop, and part of the weekend routine for southern Vermonters.

You'll find old favorite vegetables and all the trendy new varieties, along with flowers, artisanal breads, farm cheeses, handmade soap, local honey, maple syrup, pottery, jewelry, smart scarves, and French pastries. Plan to be there around lunchtime, when there will nearly always be live music and maybe Morris dancers on the shaded lawn.

Some vendors sell prepared foods to eat at picnic tables under the trees. You may find savory stews from Mali, Thai noodles, Lebanese dolmas, even Breton crepes. In the winter, the market moves indoors to a Main Street location.

A Saturday morning tradition for my family, the farmers' market isn't just about the fresh vegetables and fruit. I get tips for growing herbs and suggestions on how to cook foraged ramps and fiddlehead ferns. And I get fresh-squeezed lemonade and eat really great Thai food for lunch while listening to music and watching the kids play in the big sandbox. It gets the weekend started right.

Brattleboro itself is a cultural and social phenomenon, one of Vermont's few towns with an industrial past, but also one where back-to-the-landers settled in the 1960s and '70s and never left. The arts flourish here, and on any night of the week, you'll find a choice of gallery openings, performances, classes, community action meetings, concerts, public forums, and other activities.

Address: Route 9, West Brattleboro, Vermont

Unquestionably Vermont's most popular tourist attraction for children, Ben & Jerry's factory tour is a favorite experience for adults, too. On the 30-minute guided tour of the factory, you'll watch workers as they make and package ice cream, while a guide explains the process.

On days when the factory is not operating, you'll still see inside it, but a movie will show it in action. Of course, a sample of the day's flavor is included, and you can sample more flavors before choosing your favorite at their scoop shop.

The gift shop sells B&J goods, and you can take ice cream with you in insulated carriers. Be sure to visit the Flavor Graveyard to mourn the loss of their "dearly de-pinted" flavors and to smile at the past tongue-in-cheek names. In case you wondered, my favorite is rich, dark "Chocolatey Love A-fair" -- chocolate with salted caramel swirls, caramel chunks and sea salt fudge.

Address: Route 100, Waterbury, Vermont

Restored historic buildings and the collections they house at the open-air Shelburne Museum reflect Vermont's rich history and America's folk and fine art traditions. You can explore a round barn; the lake steamer SS Ticonderoga (now on dry land); a lake lighthouse; a barn filled with vintage carriages and wagons; a print shop; and collections of carved decoys, American quilts, handmade hatboxes, hooked rugs, and trains, in a bucolic village setting among manicured gardens.

In contrast to the simple farms represented at the museum, you can glimpse an entirely different kind of farming in New England at nearby Shelburne Farms . The grand turreted barns and farmyard of this 1400-acre working "gentleman farm" are still in operation, and you can sample their cheese, visit the gardens, and even have tea, depending on the tour you choose.

Address: 6000 Shelburne Road, Shelburne

Exuding all the charm and fascination of an old-time Victorian museum, without the mustiness, the museum endowed by the owner of Fairbanks Scales covers subjects from Vermont wildflowers to the mysteries of the universe.

The 1891 Fairbanks Museum building, listed on the National Register of Historic Places, exhibits many of the usual things you'd expect – mounted birds and animals, Native American stone tools, Civil War memorabilia – as well as many delightful surprises. Take, for example, the bizarre collection of Victorian portraits of Washington, Lincoln, and others formed entirely of bugs and beetles.

Vermonters love visiting the live broadcast studio for their favorite weather report, Eye on the Sky. Downstairs is a hands-on nature center with wasp hives, frogs, iguanas, and creepy things kids love. Planetarium programs examine the sky above St. Johnsbury and beyond.

Across the street is the St. Johnsbury Athenaeum , whose Art Gallery was added in 1873, making it the oldest art gallery in the United States still in its original form. The collection features American and European artists from the late 18th- to mid-19th century.

These and other outstanding examples of Victorian architecture on Main St. are described in a walking tour map of the street, available at the museum.

Address: 1302 Main Street, St. Johnsbury, Vermont

"Do touch," seems to be the motto of the Montshire , where each of its 125 exhibits begs for hands-on interaction. Kids can make soap bubbles grow bigger than they are, understand how movies are made by creating their own, experiment with light beams, navigate a labyrinth powered by air, watch a live boa constrictor, or see leafcutter ants at work demolishing foliage.

Even the building is designed for curious kids, with color-coded ventilation ducts and exposed construction supports. Nature trails explore the 110 acres of grounds alongside the Connecticut River.

Address: 1 Montshire Road, Norwich, Vermont

Granite quarries were founded at Barre after the War of 1812 and are still operating today. You can visit the Rock of Ages quarry, a staggering hole in the earth, and at 550 feet wide, a quarter mile long, and 450 feet deep, the world's largest quarry.

Barre granite's exceptionally fine grain makes it the preferred stone for finely detailed, durable outdoor sculpture, such as monuments and architectural detail. While there, along with touring the quarry and workshops, you can sand-blast your own granite souvenir, and go bowling on what is believed to be the world's only outdoor granite lane. (No, the bowling balls are not made of granite.)

Barre drew expert stone workers and carvers, many from Italy, and as you might expect, you can find their work in public sculptures and in Hope Cemetery . This is filled with elaborate carvings by early-20th-century stonecutters, highlighted by some remarkably lifelike sculptures and by symbols of employment or favorite pastimes: a soccer-ball, an oil truck, or an outdoor scene with a fishing rod.

Address: 558 Graniteville Road, Graniteville, Vermont

One of New England's finest examples of Victorian architecture and decoration, the Park-McCullough Historic Governor's Mansion is also one of the best preserved. The 35-room mansion represents the height of the Second Empire style popular in the 1860s, with finely detailed construction and artistic features.

The mansion remained in the same family for generations, so it is furnished with original pieces and decorative arts that show the opulence and tastes of the mid-Victorian era. Surrounded by manicured grounds and gardens, the mansion is open from spring through fall and hosts cultural events, including a classical music series, theater performances, and a summer croquet league.

Address: 1 Park Street, North Bennington, Vermont

Vermont's vast National Forest lies in two sections along the mountain chain that forms the state's spine–and makes east-west travel a challenge. Nearly every route across these mountains leads over a gap, a mountain pass that may be good for viewing the scenery, but not so good for winter travel. In fact, some of these roads close entirely during the winter.

Follow these the rest of the year to discover waterfalls, National Forest campgrounds, scenic places to picnic, trails to hike, and a world of nature. The Appalachian Trail crosses through the southern section of the National Forest, and the Long Trail follows the chain the entire length of the state from the Canadian to the Massachusetts borders.

Route 100 , often called "The Skiers' Highway," weaves back and forth among the mountains as it makes its way north, connecting many of Vermont's ski areas, from Mount Snow to Stowe and Jay Peak . Route 9 crosses the Green Mountains in the south; Route 73 traverses Brandon Gap; Route 125 climbs over Middlebury Gap (passing Texas Falls ); and Route 17 climbs Appalachian Gap, the highest that is open in the winter, at 2,356 feet.

I like camping at the well-maintained campgrounds located throughout the National Forest, especially those at Moosalamoo (near Middlebury), Silver Lake and Hapgood Pond. The latter, near Manchester, also has a day-use recreation area with swimming, canoeing, kayaking, and fishing. It is the only place in the Green Mountain National Forest where a day use pass is needed.

More Related Articles on PlanetWare.com

What to Do in Vermont: In addition to those described here, there are more attractions to see in Burlington , and you can explore outside the city on Vermont's outstanding hiking trails . Or you can enjoy winter sports at any of Vermont's top ski resorts .

Where to Go Next: Just a ferry ride across Lake Champlain are the Adirondack Mountains, one of the top attractions of New York state . This is a popular area for hiking, camping, and other outdoor pursuits. And across the Connecticut River to the east is New Hampshire , where you'll find mountains, lake and ocean beaches , and top-rated resorts.

More on Vermont

22 Top Things to Do in Vermont During the Summer

Vermont may lack an ocean coast, but summer vacationers never feel shortchanged. This uncrowded, independent-minded state known for its rural and natural beauty over-delivers when it comes to freshwater beaches, family-friendly resorts, outdoor adventures, golf courses, craft breweries , and farm-to-table restaurants. If you're heading north to escape the heat, here are some of Vermont's most memorable getaways and experiences for summer visitors.

Jump in a Lake

You won't miss the ocean when you discover Vermont's plentiful freshwater beaches. Many of them, such as Boulder Beach in Groton, are tucked inside Vermont's state parks, where admission fees are family-friendly and you can combine swimming with other park activities like hiking, biking, or kayaking. Lake Willoughby's North Beach in the town of Westmore is one of the best lake beaches in New England. And you'll find more than a dozen public beaches on Lake Champlain, the granddaddy of all Vermont lakes. Of course, there are more than 80 old-fashioned swimming holes in Vermont , too, when you're ready for an exhilarating dip.

Treat Your Family to a Memorable Getaway

Vermont is home to New England's superlative family resorts. Put Smugglers' Notch —with its eight heated pools, mountainside water playground, freshwater swimming spots, and award-winning children's programs—at the top of your list. The Tyler Place Family Resort in Swanton caters to all ages, too, with water sports and other outdoor adventures, supervised activities for toddlers to teens, and all-inclusive dining. The dog-friendly Wildflower Inn in Lyndonville is also a perfect landing spot for active families. Situated on 300 acres with easy access to Kingdom Trails, you'll bond over country breakfasts, hiking, bike rides, lawn games, refreshing swims, and farm-to-table dinners.

Shop at a Farmers Market

When Vermont's town greens and parks become gathering places for farmers and gourmet food producers, you're in for a treat. There are dozens of weekly farmers markets in Vermont , where you'll see the state's fresh-harvested bounty on display. The best markets, such as the Waitsfield Farmers Market on the Mad River Green, offer so much more than fruits and vegetables. Hear live music, sample baked goods, and purchase handcrafted souvenirs. You'll be supporting Vermont growers, artisans, and entrepreneurs while enjoying a summer day outdoors. Picking your own strawberries is another fun summertime activity that supports Vermont farms..

Cruise Lake Champlain

Lake Champlain's one and only cruise ship, the " Spirit of Ethan Allen ," allows summer vacationers to experience the state's largest lake on a variety of leisurely voyages. From mid-May through mid-October, narrated, scenic trips are offered several times daily. You can also combine cruising with lunching or brunching, or book passage aboard a sunset cocktail cruise or a dinner cruise. On Thursday nights, you can solve a murder mystery or partake in a scavenger hunt over dinner, while Friday night dinner cruises feature lobster. And on Saturdays, a DJ spins tracks as passengers dine and dance the night away. Check the ship's official website for the full schedule of events.

Ride a Thrilling Mountain Coaster

Vermont's ski areas have devised some awfully clever ways of attracting summertime visitors. When you find yourself longing for a downhill thrill long after the snow has melted, head to Killington, where the Beast Mountain Coaster races 4,800 twisting and turning feet through the woods. Okemo Mountain Resort in Ludlow, Vermont, will elevate your heart rate, too. Its Timber Ripper Mountain Coaster is a breathtaking and smooth ride down the forested mountainside, and you control the speed.

Go Behind the Scenes at Ben & Jerry's

Factory tours at Ben & Jerry's in Waterbury, Vermont, will give you a new appreciation for summer's top treat. During your 30-minute guided experience, you'll see cherished ice cream flavors like Chunky Monkey being produced in huge batches and have the opportunity to sample the day's fresh—sometimes limited edition—frozen creation. You'll also hear the enchanting back story of this global brand's humble Vermont origins. Don't miss the Flavor Graveyard, where discontinued concoctions like Bovinity Divinity are humorously memorialized.

Take Up Fly Fishing

Vermont is the fly fishing capital of New England. Visit the 50-year-old American Museum of Fly Fishing in Manchester, home to the world's largest collection of fishing-related artifacts. Among its treasures, you'll find rods that belonged to legendary people like artist Winslow Homer, author Ernest Hemingway, and slugger Babe Ruth. Vermont's Battenkill and Mettawee Rivers are premier places to cast for wild trout. If you don't know the first thing about fly fishing, Vermont has you covered, too. Orvis operates a fly-fishing school in Manchester: Choose a one- or two-day experience including instructional opportunities geared specifically for women or for parents and children. Further north, Burlington-based Maple Country Anglers offers guided fishing trips on Vermont's fish-rich rivers and streams.

Sleep at a Farm

Fun for kids and restorative for grown-ups, a farm stay is an immersive way to experience Vermont's rural rhythms. The cream of Vermont's crop of farm escapes is Liberty Hill Farm & Inn in Rochester. Here, you won't just feast on farm-fresh, family-style meals and observe the daily operations of a working dairy farm with 270 cows on-site. You can help with milking, bottle-feeding calves, and other chores. And you'll absorb farm values, which may just change the way you view our world and your own life.

Dine at a Farm-to-Table Restaurant

Kim Knox Beckius

Vermont's best farm-to-plate restaurants make optimal use of summer's bounty. This agrarian state was at the forefront of the locavore movement and has worked since 2009 to double access to local food. Many of Vermont's top chefs have wholeheartedly embraced this philosophy, and you'll want to taste the intriguing dishes they are creating using freshly harvested ingredients. With locations in Waterbury and Burlington, Hen of the Wood offers one of the state's best foodie experiences. This eatery boasts a daily-changing menu that is alone worth raving about, but if you're celebrating a special occasion, consider booking the multi-course, chef's tasting menu.

See a Genuine Rodeo

There's an unexpected yet authentic touch of the Wild West in Castleton, Vermont. From July through Labor Day weekend, Pond Hill Ranch —a genuine, 2,000-acre working ranch—hosts Saturday night rodeos that are alcohol-free and fun for families. You'll see top-notch professional bull riders and exciting events like barrel racing, calf roping, and steer wrestling. The bull riding competition for novices is the biggest hoot.

Enjoy a Perfect Evening of Theater

For a fraction of the cost, you can see Broadway-caliber shows at the intimate, 300-seat Weston Playhouse in Weston, Vermont, this summer. Plays have been staged in this repurposed Greek Revival church for more than 80 years. Kick off a memorable evening with dinner beside a waterfall at the playhouse's restaurant. After the curtain call, there's more fun in store. Young Company players join the show's performers for a comical hour of additional entertainment in the downstairs cabaret.

Head to the Calvin Coolidge State Historic Site

They called him "Silent Cal," but 30th U.S. President Calvin Coolidge's legacy resonates through time in Plymouth Notch, Vermont. The Calvin Coolidge State Historic Site preserves essentially the entire rural village where Coolidge was born, where he was sworn in as president following Warren Harding's death, and where he set up his "Summer White House" during his presidency. You can even visit the general store and Plymouth Cheese Factory ; established in 1890 by Coolidge's father, it is one of America's oldest still-operating cheese companies.

Follow the Vermont Cheese Trail

Speaking of cheese, the state prides itself on the quality and diversity of its dairy products, and this Vermont Cheese Trail map will help you locate and visit cheesemakers statewide. The Cabot Cheese Farmers' Store is a popular stop in Waterbury Center, Vermont. During your visit, you can browse its selection of award-winning cheeses and dairy products, as well as microbrews, hard ciders, and local and international wine. Don't miss the chance to discover artisan cheeses made in small batches, too, at destinations like Blue Ledge Farm in Salisbury; its self-serve farmstand is open daily, from 10 a.m. until 6 p.m., April through December.

Picnic at a Music in the Meadow Concert

The backdrop for these outdoor performances is as spectacular as it gets. Pack a picnic, spread out a blanket, and enjoy the music and the mountain views during one of summer's Music in the Meadow concerts at the Trapp Family Lodge in Stowe, Vermont. Tickets are required for most of these shows, held on select Sundays in July and early August. Arrive up to two hours early to claim your spot on the sloping lawn.

Give ATV Riding a Whirl

If you've never been on an all-terrain vehicle (ATV), NEK Adventures will introduce you to this adventurous summer pastime. Their guided ATV tours, which depart from Concord, Vermont, take place at a sightseeing pace and rumble through remote areas you'd probably never see without a four-wheeler beneath you. Participants must be 18 years old (16 if accompanied by a parent).

Tour the World's Largest Granite Quarry

Courtesy of Rock of Ages 

Touring the world's largest deep-hole dimension granite quarry is one of the most incredible things you can do in Vermont. A trip to Rock of Ages in Graniteville is actually two tours in one. A bus will take you to the 600-foot-deep Smith Quarry, where you'll see machines hoisting 400-million-year-old blocks of stone. Back at the 160,000-square-foot manufacturing facility, self-guided tours include the chance to observe artists at work, who use modern and traditional tools to sculpt and carve memorials. Visitors are encouraged to take home a free sample of enduring Vermont granite from the grout pile. Be sure to try out the outdoor granite bowling before you go!

Bike the Kingdom Trails

In Vermont's remote Northeast Kingdom, there's an extensive network of multi-use trails that beckons mountain bikers. Purchase a one or two-day membership , and you'll have access to Kingdom Trails ' diverse riding options for all ability levels. This non-profit has negotiated legal access to private lands in one of the state's most scenic natural areas, and you'll be awed by the care that goes into maintaining these trails.

Support the Preservation of the Morgan Horse

If you love horses, you'll want to include a visit to the UVM Morgan Horse Farm on your Vermont itinerary. Located near Middlebury and open to the public from May through October, this picturesque facility was established in 1878. You'll see more than 40 of these strong and versatile horses, the state animal of Vermont. And your admission fee helps to sustain the breed. Vermont is also home to the National Museum of the Morgan Horse , not far away in Shelburne.

Reserve Your Tee Time

Vermont has more than 75 scenic golf courses: some historic, some modern. Opportunities to play nine or 18 holes are scattered statewide, but you'll find the highest concentrations of courses in resort destinations like Stowe and Killington. Mild summer temperatures make Vermont an ideal place to golf. While some of the state's top-rated courses are open only to members, there are plenty of gorgeous public golf courses in Vermont where you can play, including Equinox Golf Resort & Spa 's mountainside course; designed by Walter Travis in 1926, it was updated in 1991 by Rees Jones.

Attend a Waterfront Beer Festival

Sure, you could drive all over the state visiting craft breweries—like Hill Farmstead Brewery and The Alchemist —that have made Vermont one of the best destinations in the world for beer lovers. But the annual Vermont Brewers Festival , held the third weekend of July in Burlington's Waterfront Park, is a safer and more efficient way to taste buzz-worthy brews from Vermont and beyond. This epic, adults-only summer event attracts more than 10,000 people and features local food, too.

Admire Antique Autos

The annual Vermont Antique and Classic Car Meet , held in Waterbury, takes place in early August. And if you've attended the show in the past, you know this is one of the biggest opportunities of the summer to connect with others who love vintage automobiles. Traditions like the flea market and Saturday's parade and street dance are in the mix, and even if you don't own a classic car, you can dress in vintage style and compete for prizes.

Take Your Pup to Dog Mountain

Both a memorial to its creator, artist Stephen Huneck, and a magical place for dogs and their people to explore, Dog Mountain and its one-of-a-kind Dog Chapel make a perfect summer day trip destination. The dog-themed chapel's walls are plastered with love notes to pets who have enriched their families' lives. The hillsides are lush and perfect for long walks. And sales in the gallery help to sustain this non-profit. Try to time your visit to coincide with the Summer Dog Party on the first Saturday in August.

The best time to visit Vermont is in the wintertime, when the state's ski resorts welcome snow sports enthusiasts from all over the East Coast to hit the slopes. Fall, too, is a popular time to road trip around the Green Mountain State—particularly from late September through to the first three weeks of October—as the trees come alive with shades of yellow, orange, and red.

In July, Vermont sees average highs in the low 80s, so locals will often wear wear shorts and T-shirts. Temps cool in the evenings—be sure to bring a sweatshirt for campfires and stargazing.

Although Vermont is a more popular fall and winter destination, summer is an excellent time to go—especially if you don't like the cold. There's plenty to do this time of year, including relaxing at a freshwater beach, golfing, sipping an ice-cold beer at one of the state's top breweries, and exploring more than 55 state parks.

20 Best Things to Do in Vermont

The 9 Best Foods to Try in Vermont

Your Trip to Vermont: The Complete Guide

The Top 14 Destinations in Vermont

10 Top Things to Do in Woodstock, Vermont

The Best Time to Visit Vermont

The 8 Best Vermont Road Trips

15 Top Things to Do in Burlington, Vermont

The Best Breweries in Vermont

The Top 10 East Coast Winter Destinations

The 15 Best Things to Do in Montpelier, Vermont

Top 10 USA Vacation Destinations for 2018

The Best Staycation in Every State

The 6 Best Restaurants in Burlington, Vermont

The Top US States for an Outdoor Getaway

The Best Places to See Fall Colors in Vermont

Craft beer, localvore life, pristine nature: here's the best of Vermont

Aug 24, 2021 • 6 min read

Stowe is one of Vermont's many scenic towns, no matter the season © DonLand / Shutterstock

Farmer's markets, localvore restaurants, arts and crafts, rural charm, pristine nature and a wealth of history – whatever you’re seeking,  Vermont has it. 

Tucked between six-million-acre Adirondack Park, New Hampshire and the Atlantic Coast, the Green Mountain State is friendly, welcoming and teeming with opportunities to explore in all seasons. Whether you splash around on the shores of one the state's more than 800 lakes, pick ripe apples from the tree or sample maple syrup as it comes out of the boiler, the smallest state capital in the US is ready for adventure. 

Everything feels accessible in Vermont, and it’s easy to put together an itinerary that incorporates so many different kinds of outdoor activities in one day. Whether you're visiting for  Open Studio Weekend , when Vermont’s artists welcome visitors to the spaces where they create, or you want to follow the state’s beer or spirits trail, here’s our list of the best places to visit in Vermont. 

Church Street Marketplace, Burlington

In the heart of Burlington , Vermont’s biggest city, is Church Street , a pedestrian mall lined with charming boutiques, superb restaurants, and of course the mandatory Ben & Jerry's. In summer, musicians and street performers delight visitors, while food cart vendors have got delicious local snacks. Shop ‘til you drop and use Church Street as a launchpad for exploring the Queen City. Don't pass up a visit to the calming Lake Champlain shore, only a few blocks away. 

With 7500 residents, Montpelier is the US's smallest state capital by population. This city's focal point is the monumental 1859 Vermont State House, the state's gold-domed Greek Revival capitol. Take some time to visit the landmark's excellent art collection which has decorative and fine art exhibits, some from its permanent collection, and some traveling. Next door at the Vermont History Museum , exhibits recount the state's early history, highlighting Ethan Allen's 18th-century adventures. Meander through downtown Montpelier for bakeries, restaurants, shops and more before heading to Hubbard Park's  observation tower for some of the best views of the capital.  

Vermont’s 7 best hiking trails

Surrounded by rolling hills and stately horse farms, Woodstock is steeped in history. In 1786, it was a center of commerce, home to both industry and art, and one of Vermont’s largest and wealthiest towns. Relics from that golden era still remain as the town's  Woodstock Inn & Resort attracts city-dwellers to the country for a high-end weekend getaway.  

Visit the circa 1880 pink sandstone Norman Williams Public Library , or Billings Farm & Museum , a functioning dairy farm with an 1890 farmhouse and exhibits that depict farm life like it used to be. 

Nearby, a web of trails in Marsh-Billings-Rockefeller National Historical Park (the state’s first national park) invites walkers and nature lovers to explore. Take a dip or drop a line in the Ottauquechee River. It flows through the center of town and under the area's three historic covered bridges.

Most of the year, the three Villages that comprise Tunbridge, Vermont are pretty quiet. A few visitors wander to admire their five covered bridges, But in mid-September, Tunbridge comes alive. Vermont has many agricultural fairs, but the Tunbridge World’s Fair , which has taken place in Tunbridge continuously since 1867, is the most famous.

Held in mid-September, the fair features farming and agricultural demonstrations and contests, both modern and historical, as well as arm wrestling, ox pulls and displays of the biggest and best produce and pies Vermonters can grow or make. Rides, contra dancing and a fantastic beer garden round out the offerings. But it’s the pig race that steals the show. 

Just off of Mount Mansfield (Vermont's highest peak), Stowe is a classic New England town packed with local commerce and surrounded by natural beauty and landmarked by the historic white spires of Community Church. 

For the best of the area's nature trails, hop on a mountain bike for a tour of Cady Hill before rewarding yourself with a fresh-from-the-farm lunch at the Sunday farmer's market. Stay on the bike to glide along Stowe’s riverside rec path and route to one of the town’s many swimming holes. Stowe is famous for its superb skiing, both alpine and Nordic. Even if it’s not ski season,  Vermont’s Ski History Museum brings skiing alive through its collections of gear and artifacts from ski seasons past. 

Drive the Mt. Mansfield Toll Road or hike the Long Trail to the summit of Mt. Mansfield for sweeping views of New England. Catch the Vermont Symphony Orchestra for a concert at Trapp Family Lodge ; the stunning sunset and superb music will make it unforgettable. 

Vermont’s best road trips  

Lake Willoughby, Northeast Kingdom

Five miles long and up to 320ft deep, Lake Willoughby is a glacially-formed lake that’s a National Natural Landmark. Carved deep into Vermont’s Northeast Kingdom, the lake lies between Mt. Pisgah and Mt. Hor, which together form the fjord-like Willoughby Gap. 

In the late 1800s, steamboats paraded visitors around the lake. Now, public beaches at the north and south ends provide summer fun for swimmers and paddlers. Fishermen cast a line here for lake and rainbow trout, landlocked Atlantic salmon and native round whitefish. 

At least 100 bird species populate this waterway: thrushes, warblers, hummingbirds, jays, finches, loons, herons, gulls and the rare peregrine falcon, which nests in the cliffs of Mt. Pisgah and Mt. Hor. 

Smuggler’s Notch

During the War of 1812, the twisty, windy, cliff-lined, boulder-strewn mountain horse path between Underhill and Stowe was the mainline for supplies going to and coming from Canada. It played a similar role for booze during prohibition. And it was also part of the Underground Railroad. Now, a narrow, snaking road replaces the historic path through Mt. Mansfield State Forest. 

Drive it and explore the boulder field at the top where smugglers hid, and where now you’ll see rock climbers and boulderers ascending. Though the Notch is closed in winter, it’s just as busy with skiers, snowshoers, sledders and ice climbers. 

Lake Champlain

The sixth-largest lake in the United States, Lake Champlain , forms the western border of Vermont. At times, it's been a Revolutionary War battleground, a supplier of ships in the War of 1812, a "line” in the Underground Railroad and home to the mythical monster Vermonters affectionately call “ champ .” 

At 125 miles long and nearly 15 miles wide, the freshwater lake is sprinkled with motorboats, paddle boats and sailboats in the summer. Put in at any of the boat launches, marinas or beaches, and you could follow the lake north to Quebec via the Richlieu and St. Lawrence Rivers, or south to the Hudson River and Manhattan. 

Take a ferry to New York, including the historic Ticonderoga cable ferry (currently closed due to the COVID-19 pandemic, check their website for updates) or splash around on one of the lake’s many public beaches.

Explore the Champlain Islands, north of Burlington, and sample from the region’s best wineries, or pick apples in the Lake Shore’s fertile groves. Beneath its sometimes glassy, sometimes turbulent surface lies 300 historic shipwrecks. Dive them or learn about them at  Lake Champlain Maritime Museum . Lake Champlain is also one of the top bass fishing lakes in North America. 

You might also like:

5 US ski towns for people who hate skiing The 12 best-secluded cabins to rent in the Northeast USA   Audiobooks to narrate your US road trip

Explore related stories

Jun 21, 2024 • 5 min read

Three words: Cute. Tiny. Airports. Here is our pick of the USA's very best.

Jun 21, 2024 • 9 min read

Jun 7, 2024 • 11 min read

Apr 29, 2024 • 5 min read

Apr 15, 2024 • 12 min read

Apr 14, 2024 • 8 min read

Apr 13, 2024 • 8 min read

Apr 12, 2024 • 8 min read

Apr 12, 2024 • 7 min read

Apr 11, 2024 • 6 min read

25 Best Things to Do in Vermont — Fun Activities & Stuff to Do!

By: Author Daniel Wright

Posted on Published: February 21, 2021  - Last updated: October 3, 2023

There’s something for everyone in Vermont.

Famed for its rural splendor, fall foliage and elegant architecture, this state will mesmerize you with its heavenly sights.

Plus, it offers a multitude of farm-to-table eateries, craft breweries, outdoor adventures and family-approved resorts.

So, start planning a vacation here by reading our roundup of the best things to do in Vermont.

1. The Woodstock Inn and Resort — Woodstock

14 The Green Woodstock, VT 05091 (802) 332-6853

Set right in the heart of Woodstock, this elegant and romantic resort features 142 cushy suites and rooms.

Why You’ll Enjoy This Activity

With its romantic charm and classic elegance, this retreat is ideal for couples aching for a pleasurable escape this weekend .

Not only does it offer deluxe accommodations, but it also has an outstanding array of amenities, including an award-winning spa.

What’s more, it has easy access to tons of fascinating Vermont activities, including fishing, biking and skiing.

Pamper yourself with its rejuvenating treatments, massages and alternative therapies, like Reflexology and Reiki.

For something a bit more exciting, try any of the resort’s ski packages.

2. Magic Hat Brewing Company — South Burlington

5 Bartlett Bay Rd South Burlington, VT 05403 (802) 923-1421

Founded in 1994, this Burlington brewery is a paradise for beer connoisseurs.

In the mood for some delightful tap beers, but don’t know where to go in Vermont?

Why not put Magica Hat to your list of top places to go in Vermont?

A classic in Burlington, this brewery is well-known for its beers on tap, such as the #9.

For some cheap fun, take a free tour of the brewery, the Artifactory.

There’s also plenty of cool and colorful merch at this brewery.

Recommended Hotel Nearby: Comfort Inn & Suites South Burlington

Related: Best Family Vacations in Vermont

3. Waterbury Village Historic District

Ringed by streams and rivers, this Waterbury community gives visitors a sneak peek into the 19th version of Vermont.

Waterbury Village is a dream come true for history buffs.

Listed on the National Register of Historic Places, this district is home to a collection of architecturally and historical distinctive structures.

Plus, it looks stunning in snow, and has a bevy of hidden gems and wonderful eateries .

Explore the village on foot, and uncover hidden and vintage buildings.

There are tons of places here where you can also learn more about Waterbury’s history, including the public library.

Recommended Hotel Nearby: Best Western Plus Waterbury – Stowe

4. Ben & Jerry’s Ice Cream Factory — Waterbury

1281 Waterbury-Stowe Road, VT-100 Waterbury Village Historic District, VT 05676 (866) 258-6877

Since 1986, this famous ice cream factory in Waterbury has been offering tantalizing and fun tours.

Ben & Jerry’s Ice Cream Factory is, no doubt, one of the most incredibly fun places in Vermont.

Creative and cute, the original Ben & Jerry’s factory will amaze you with its sweet cookie aroma and fun tours.

Enjoy a free sample and take a tour of the factory.

Then, don’t forget to drop by the Flavor Graveyard to check out the short-lived flavors of the company.

Recommended Hotel Nearby: Fairfield by Marriott Waterbury Stowe

Related: Things to Do in Stowe

5. Vermont Institute Of Natural Science — Quechee

149 Nature’s Way Quechee, VT 05059 (802) 359-5000

Nestled in Quechee, this 47-acre campus has been educating visitors about the natural world for over 30 years.

Wondering what to do in Vermont with kids ?

Then, make sure to pay a visit to VINS.

Filled with outdoor and indoor exhibits, this kid-approved attraction lets you enjoy a variety of fun experiences.

You can come face-to-face with falcons, owls, eagles and raptors.

Watch birds of prey stretch their wings and feed.

You can also walk the Quechee Gorge trail and be enthralled by the beauty of Ottauquechee River.

Recommended Hotel Nearby: 506 On the River Inn Woodstock

6. Shelburne Museum

6000 Shelburne Rd Shelburne, VT 05482 (802) 985-3346

Established in 1947, this museum houses over 150,000 Americana, design and art exhibits.

The Shelburne Museum lets you experience the many different facets of the state in just one spot.

Besides its vast Americiana and American folk art collection, the museum also boasts fabulous gardens.

Moreover, it showcases a lighthouse, a covered bridge and historic buildings.

Tour the museum and see a seemingly endless array of exhibits, including circus memorabilia, paintings, carriages and quilts.

You can also hit the property’s walking trails and partake in their environmental educational programs.

Recommended Hotel Nearby: Hampton Inn Burlington – Colchester

7. Hildene, The Lincoln Family Home — Manchester

1005 Hildene Rd Manchester, VT 05255 (802) 362-1788

Situated in Manchester, this Georgian Revival estate was once the summer home of Lincoln’s son.

Hildene is one of the most remarkable places to see in Vermont.

As you visit this estate, you’ll find an elaborate pipe organ, original furnishings and one of the president’s notable top hats.

Of course, the house will give you an insight into the life and background of the Lincoln family.

Once you have toured the house, head outside and relish the stately gardens overlooking the Battenkill Valley.

You may also walk through the scenic wetlands and meadows of the property.

Recommended Hotel Nearby: Kimpton Taconic Hotel

8. Rock of Ages Granite Quarry — Graniteville

558 Graniteville Road Graniteville, VT 05654 (802) 476-3119

At 600 deep, this unique landmark is the world’s largest dimension, deep-hole quarry.

Rock of Ages put the state on the map as a premier granite source.

Today, it has become one of Vermont’s most famous sights, thanks to its otherworldly formations and beauty.

Tour the granite plant and see how huge stone chunks are polished, hewed, cut and engraved.

You may also visit the granite bowling alley, and pick up a piece of scrap granite as your souvenir.

Recommended Hotel Nearby: Capitol Plaza Hotel Montpelier Tapestry Collection by Hilton

9. Mount Mansfield — Underhill

Underhill, VT 05489

With an elevation of 4,395 feet, this towering marvel is Vermont’s highest mountain.

Up some thrilling stuff to do in Vermont?

Do yourself a favor, and explore the highest summit in the state.

With sweeping vistas and a wealth of natural wonders, this mountain offers a ton of opportunities for outdoor fun and adventure.

Hike the 7.2-mile Mount Mansfield Loop Trail, and savor breathtaking views of New York’s Adirondacks and Lake Champlian.

You may also skii in any of the area’s resorts in winter.

Recommended Hotel Nearby: The Lodge at Spruce Peak, a Destination by Hyatt Residence

10. Vermont State House — Montpelier

115 State St Montpelier, VT 05633 (802) 828-2228

Home to lawmakers, this Greek Revival building in Montpelier is a US National Historic Landmark.

Vermont, with its intricate architecture, is one of the most majestic things to see in Vermont.

Designed in 1857 by Thomas Silloway, the capitol is also drenched in history.

In fact, it’s listed on the US National Register of Historic Places.

Take a seasonal guide tour or walk around the capital yourself.

Inside the capitol, you’ll find period portraits, original furnishings and stained glass that bears Vermont’s coat of arms.

Recommended Hotel Nearby: Comfort Inn & Suites at Maplewood

11. Cabot Creamery — Waitsfield

193 Home Farm Way Waitsfield, VT 05673 (888) 792-2268

Since 1919, this dairy cooperative has been producing some of the finest cheddar in the world.

Vermont is a slice of heaven on earth for cheese lovers.

And, there’s no better place to sample cheese in Vermont than the renowned Cabot Creamery.

From rare aged-cheddars to store-shelf classics, you’ll sample tons of dips, sour cream and cheese at Cabot.

Although it no longer offers tours of its cheesemaking area, Cabot’s Visitor Center is still worth a pit stop.

At the Visitor’s Center, you’ll discover an educational video tour that highlights their history.

Of course, it allows you to enjoy a range of Vermont artisan products, cheeses and rare cheddars.

Recommended Hotel Nearby: White Horse Inn

12. Bennington Battle Monument

15 Monument Cir Bennington, VT 05201 (802) 447-0550

With an overall height of 306 feet, this stone obelisk is the tallest man-made structure in Vermont.

If you’re looking for more must see tourist spots in Vermont, head to the Bennington Battle Monument.

Built in 1891, this landmark beautifully commemorates the Battle of Bennington during the Revolutionary War.

Moreover, it’s arguably the state’s most popular historic site.

Climb to the top and enjoy fabulous views of the area.

Also, learn how a seemingly ill-equipped militia in New England defeated the mighty British soldiers.

You may also watch the events held here, including the celebration and reenactment of Bennington Battle Day.

Recommended Hotel Nearby: Hampton Inn Bennington

13. Marsh-Billings-Rockefeller National Historical Park — Woodstock

54 Elm St Woodstock, VT 05091 (802) 457-3368

Established in 1992, this 643-acre park in Woodstock teems with fun year-round.

Marsh-Billings-Rockefeller is a wondrous mix of a Victorian mansion, a working farm and formal gardens.

From ranger-guided mansion tours to special programs, the park also offers a wide range of activities to visitors of all stripes and ages.

Tour the Rockefeller grounds and home, to uncover a ton of tips on gardening and forestry.

Afterward, head to the farm, and explore a museum housing lively displays on rural and farm life.

Recommended Hotel Nearby: Woodstock Inn & Resort

14. Killington Ski Area

3861 Killington Rd Killington, VT 05751 (800) 621-6867

Spanning more than 1,509 acres, this resort is home to the largest skiable area in the eastern US region.

Killington Ski Area is one of the best places to visit in Vermont in winter.

When winter sets in, it turns into an adventure destination filled with snowmobilers, quad riders, snowboarders and free skiers.

Additionally, the area offers snowshoe and snowmobile tours,as well as sleigh and gondola rides.

Killington Ski Area isn’t just a winter wonderland.

Trust me, it’s a terrific option if you’re looking for exciting and cool places to visit in summer.

For a memorable summer escape, check out their high-flying attractions, like the Skyeride and Beast Mountain Coaster.

Recommended Hotel Nearby: Mountain Sports Inn

Related: Best Family Resorts in Vermont

15. Jay Peak Resort

830 Jay Peak Rd Jay, VT 05859 (802) 988-2611

Perched on Jay Peak, this ski resort offers a variety of attractions and activities throughout the year.

Jay Peak Resort is one of the most popular tourist attractions in Vermont.

While known as a ski destination, the resort has other amenities to entertain visitors throughout the year.

There’s a spa facility, swimming pools, and even a water park.

Experience the exhilarating recreational activities at Pump House Indoor Waterpark.

Open year-round, this water park has 50,000 square feet of hot tubs, a lazy river and water slides.

16. Billings Farm and Museum — Woodstock

69 Old River Rd Woodstock, VT 05091 (802) 457-2355

Created by Frederick Billings in 1871, this working dairy farm offers a unique experience in Woodstock.

Built as a model of sustainability, this farm offers an extraordinary way to experience the state’s rural heritage.

An interactive museum, this place also allows visitors to partake in farm chores, and learn about land stewardship and agricultural history.

Get an up close look of the farm life by joining daily activities, such as Intro to Milking and Meet our Sheep.

You can also head to the Dairy Bar for some luscious ice cream and fresh cheese.

17. Green Mountain Audubon Center — Huntington

255 Sherman Hollow Rd Huntington, VT 05462 (802) 434-3068

Situated in Huntington, this 250-acre educational center will amaze visitors of all ages.

Green Mountain Audubon Center is a dream come true for nature loves and birding enthusiasts alike.

As you explore its 250-acre land, you’ll find scenic sights and a variety of charming and beautiful birds.

Drop by the Education Barn, and grab a map of the center.

Afterward, hit the 5-mile nature trails and spot a diverse collection of wildlife populations.

Recommended Hotel Nearby: The Essex Resort

Related: What Is Vermont Famous For?

18. Green Mount Cemetery — Montpelier

250 State St Montpelier, VT 05602 (802) 223-5352

Inaugurated in 1854, this 35-acre property is sure to give you a one-of-kind travel experience.

A cemetery isn’t usually the first place that comes into mind when you think of fun things to do in Vermont.

But, Green Mount isn’t your typical burial ground.

With its verdant backdrop and elaborate funerary art, this cemetery will give you the urge to snap a ton of photos.

Venture into the cemetery, and see tons of elaborate statues and graveyards.

Our favorites include the John Hubbard grave, Frederic Dieter grave and the William Stowell tomb.

19. Fleming Museum of Art — Burlington

61 Colchester Ave Burlington, VT 05405 (802) 656-0750

Opened in 1931, this museum houses the state’s most extensive of anthropological artifacts and art.

Set inside the University of Vermont, this museum features an eclectic collection of majestic art pieces from all over the world.

Along with special displays that change every year, the museum also shelters about 24,000 items from an array of cultures.

Spend some time admiring the beguiling displays inside the museum.

Highlights of the museum include sculptures from Central and West Africa, Qing Dynasty textiles and works by Winslow Homer.

Recommended Hotel Nearby: DoubleTree by Hilton Hotel Burlington Vermont

Related: Things to Do in Burlington

20. Green Mountain National Forest — Rutland

231 N Main St Rutland, VT 05701 (802) 747-6700

Sitting in the Green Mountains, this 1,842-acre national forest guarantees to give you an exciting nature trip.

Nature lovers will absolutely find their bliss venturing into this national forest.

From an interpretive trail to a thundering 140-foot waterfall, this forest will captivate you in many ways.

And, guess what?

It provides recreational opportunities throughout the year too.

In summer, the forest beckons visitors with its exhilarating activities, like downhill skiing, snowboarding, snowmobiling and snowshoeing.

Meanwhile, summer offers ample opportunities for horseback riding, mountain biking and hiking.

21. Montshire Museum of Science

1 Montshire Rd Norwich, VT 05055 (802) 649-2200

You’ll find this informative science museum and its 150 exhibits in Norwich.

There’s nothing in Vermont quite like the Montshire Museum of Science.

Through its exhibits, this museum delves into the worlds of technology, nature and science.

Perfect for the family, this museum will pique anyone’s interest.

See the numerous interactive exhibits that teach visitors about astronomy and native plants.

You’ll also adore the outdoor attractions, like the 05-mile-long Blood Brooke Loop and Bird’s-Eye View.

Recommended Hotel Nearby: Hanover Inn Dartmouth

22. Lake Champlain Ferry

1268 Gordon’s Landing Grand Isle, VT 05458 (802) 864-9804

Departing from Charlotte, Burling and Grand Isle, this ferry ride will comfortably take to the state of New York.

Lake Champlain Ferries aren’t just modes of transportation in the area.

With awe-inspiring nature views, this trip is truly an affordable and unique way to experience the majesty of Lake Champlain.

Relax and enjoy stellar views of the Adirondack Mountains and Lake Champlain.

You can also bring your hike or car if you want to explore the other side of the lake.

Recommended Hotel Nearby: The Anchorage

23. Church Street Marketplace — Burlington

2 Church Street. Suite 2A Burlington, VT 05401 (802) 863-1648

Nestled right in the heart of Burlington, this complex is the most exciting choice for local events, dining and shopping.

Lively and trendy, this award-winning outdoor complex is home to over 100 places for shopping and dining.

Furthermore, the mall hosts festivals throughout the year.

On top of it all, it’s alive constantly with activity from local street and music performers.

Go on a shopping spree, and relish the chic sights of its outstanding historic architecture.

Plus, you may also experience the mall’s seasonal events and awesome activities, including gratis mini horse rides.

Recommended Hotel Nearby: Hilton Garden Inn Burlington Downtown

24. Ethan Allen Homestead — Burlington

1 Ethan Allen Homestead Burlington, VT 05408 (802) 865-4556

Built in 1787, this historic house was the home of the eccentric Ethan Allen, a writer and one of the state’s founding fathers.

Ethan Allen Homestead is an absolute must-see for history buffs.

In 1986, this 1787 farmhouse was officially added to the National Register of Historic Places.

Today, it continues to lure visitors who want to learn more about the life of the great Ethan Allen.

From his land speculations to philosophical writings, the museum boasts a ton of exhibits where you can uncover Allen’s ideas.

You can also check out antique toys and the area where the little ones can roleplay as archaeologists.

Recommended Hotel Nearby: Hotel Vermont Burlington

25. Fairbanks Museum and Planetarium — Saint Johnsbury

1302 Main St Saint Johnsbury, VT 05189

Open since 1890, this attraction is a unique mix of a planetarium, a history museum and a natural science museum.

No list of the best things to do in Vermont is complete without the Fairbanks Museum.

Home to more than 30,000 items, this museum perfectly details the fascinating natural history of New England.

As a bonus, it features the first and only public planetarium in Vermont.

Head to the interactive Exploration Station and see a ton of educational exhibits about nature and history.

You can also drop by the Naturalist’s Corner and unlock the mysteries of our natural environment.

Recommended Hotel Nearby: Comfort Inn & Suites Near Burke Mountain

Related: Best Restaurants in St Johnsbury

Related: Best Things to Do in New England

Map of Things to Do in Vermont

Vermont Things to Do: The 25 Best Activities for [currentyear]

• The Woodstock Inn and Resort — Woodstock
• Magic Hat Brewing Company — South Burlington
• Waterbury Village Historic District
• Ben & Jerry’s Ice Cream Factory — Waterbury
• Vermont Institute Of Natural Science — Queechee
• Shelburne Museum
• Hildene, The Lincoln Family Home — Manchester
• Rock of Ages Granite Quarry — Graniteville
• Mount Mansfield — Underhill
• Vermont State House — Montpelier
• Cabot Creamery — Waitsfield
• Bennington Battle Monument
• Marsh-Billings-Rockefeller National Historical Park — Woodstock
• Killington Ski Area
• Jay Peak Resort — Jay
• Billings Farm and Museum — Woodstock
• Green Mountain Audubon Center — Huntington
• Green Mount Cemetery — Montpelier
• Fleming Museum of Art — Burlington
• Green Mountain National Forest — Rutland
• Montshire Museum of Science
• Lake Champlain Ferry
• Church Street Marketplace — Burlington
• Ethan Allen Homestead — Burlington
• Fairbanks Museum and Planetarium — Saint Johnsbury

When is the Best Time to Visit Vermont? A Month-by-Month Guide

By Author Tara Schatz

Posted on Published: March 5, 2024

Is Vermont keeping secrets from you?

You’ve been longing to visit Vermont. To hike through the Green Mountains, photograph the fall colors, meander through a covered bridge, or snowshoe to a backcountry hut.

So, when is the best time to visit Vermont?

I can tell you that October is the most popular month to visit New England, but you don’t need to win a popularity contest to enjoy a Vermont vacation.

Perhaps you’re looking for the best month to go camping in Vermont. Or skiing. or maple syrup tasting.

Vermont is blessed with four distinct seasons (five if you count mud season), and endless opportunities for outdoor recreation and adventure, no matter what time of year you visit.

But first, a disclaimer: The best time to visit Vermont is whenever you can get here! After years and years of living in Vermont, I firmly believe that you can have an amazing visit in any month of the year. Of course, if you’ve got priorities, then some months are better than others.

Table of Contents

What is the Weather like in Vermont?

There’s a saying that goes – “If you don’t like the weather in Vermont, wait five minutes.” The temperatures can change pretty dramatically, even over the course of the day, but here are some averages. Expect colder temperatures as you go up in elevation.

Another disclaimer: I’m writing this on a sunny day in February, and the temperature is currently 61 °F at my house in southern Vermont, so use these figures as a very loose guide for planning, and then pack your sandals and your snowboots when you come!

https://www.ordinary-adventures.com/2022/11/what-is-the-best-month-to-visit-alaska/#breakdown

Best Time to See Fall Foliage in Vermont

I get a lot of messages and emails from folks wanting to know when they should come to Vermont for their fall foliage vacation, and what they are actually looking for is the handful of days considered ‘peak season for foliage’ in Vermont.

This so-called peak foliage is elusive, and it changes from year to year. In very general terms, you can expect to see phenomenal fall colors between late September through the middle of October. In 2023, the colors were still bright toward the end of October.

If you are visiting the mountains, which run north to south through the middle of Vermont, I suggest visiting in late September or early October, especially if you are traveling to the Northeast Kingdom or Stowe.

If you are visiting southern Vermont, the Lake Champlain Valley, or the Connecticut River Valley for Vermont’s fall foliage, I would suggest coming during the first or second week of October. Variations in the peak fall foliage season will depend on temperatures and rainfall, so please don’t send me nasty emails if your vacation dates don’t coincide with peak colors (yes, that has happened!).

Cheapest Time to Visit Vermont

Vermont is gorgeous all through the year, you just might have to look a little deeper to find the underlying beauty in March in April. The plus side to visiting in the spring (March through May) is you will often find fantastic deals on lodging, and very few crowds.

Visit Monday through Friday, and you will save even more money on your trip to Vermont.

Before you book your spring Vacation in Vermont, there are a few things you should think about:

• Spring mud season in Vermont. Between early March and sometime in May, Vermont’s hiking trails and dirt roads get all squishy and hard to maneuver. In fact, many hiking trails and dirt roads close completely. Here’s an overview of all the awesome things you can do during mud season in Vermont.
• Spring skiing! If you are looking for deals on lift tickets, March may be the best time to visit! Try out a new mountain for a fraction of the cost. Visit Ski Vermont to start planning your spring ski trip.
• Late winter/early spring is maple sugaring season . That’s as good a reason as any I’ve got to visit Vermont. The end of March is Maple Open House Weekend, and there are a few fun maple festivals in April. Here are 12 sugar houses you can visit in the spring , as well as the important dates for all the maple events in Vermont.
• Some restaurants and museums will be closed . Since this is the low season for tourism in Vermont, I recommend checking in with restaurants and attractions to make sure they’ll be open during your visit.

Best Time to Visit Vermont for Camping

Summer is the best time to go camping in Vermont, and most state-run campgrounds open on Memorial Day weekend. We love camping in Vermont State Parks, which maintains 50+ campgrounds throughout the state.

I recommend reserving your spot ahead of time so you don’t miss out! Here are six of our favorite Vermont campgrounds for families . Many of the Vermont State Park campgrounds close after Labor Day, but some stay open into October for leaf-peeping!

Vermont State Park campgrounds don’t have electric/water hookups, but they do have hot showers, flush toilets, water spigots with potable water, lean-tos, and lovely camping cabins and cottages that you can rent.

There are also seven national forest campgrounds in the two districts of the Green Mountain National Forest. I have only stayed at Grout Pond in Southern Vermont , which has waterfront campsites that you can either hike or paddle to.

Finally, if you are looking for camping with electric/water hookups, check out some of Vermont’s private campgrounds. Vermont Campground Association is a fantastic resource.

Best Time to Visit Vermont for Skiing

I’ve already mentioned spring skiing in Vermont, which is great for finding deals on lodging and lift tickets, but if you’re thinking about the best time to find lots of snow, book a trip in February, which is historically the snowiest month.

Jay Peak in Vermont’s Northeast Kingdom gets the most snow of all of Vermont’s ski resorts, and Killington Resort opens the earliest stays open the latest — mid-November to April in a regular season, but sometimes staying open well into the summer, depending on the severity of the winter and the amount of snowfall.

Best Time to Visit Vermont for Fishing

Anglers coming to Vermont to fish the rivers, lakes, and streams for the elusive trout can take advantage of a long season, lasting from mid-April to late October. Lakes and streams are stocked in April, and 36 lakes and 9 river sections are stocked with two-year-old trout for trophy catches.

The best time to visit Vermont with a casting or fly rod depends on what you’re looking for. Trout Bum Guide Service has a nice overview of fishing Vermont’s water in different seasons and months.

Best Time to Chase Waterfalls in Vermont

Planning a Vermont vacation and want to include some fabulous waterfalls in your itinerary?

Vermont is probably more well-known for its beer and ice cream than its waterfalls, but just because they aren’t famous, doesn’t mean they aren’t beautiful.

Waterfalls in Vermont will be nice and full in the spring, starting in mid-April and running through early June.

If you want to take photos of gushing falls, come in May or late spring. If you want to check out some awesome Vermont swimming holes , come in July. And if you want a dose of fall colors with your Vermont waterfalls, come in October!

Best Time to Visit a Vermont Sugar House

If you want to learn more about how Vermonters turn fresh maple sap into maple syrup, visit in March. For the sap to run, the maple trees need nights that are below-freezing and days that creep into the 40s or 50s.

The grey days and muddy roads of early spring go hand-in-hand with one of Mother Nature’s most wonderful inventions!

Drive any back road in Vermont during early spring, and you will undoubtedly come across metal buckets hanging on roadside maple trees and lines of plastic tubing running from sugarbush to sugar shack, where clear maple sap is magically converted into pure maple syrup.

Many of Vermont’s hundreds of sugar houses open their doors to the public in March. Here are 12 Vermont sugar houses you can visit to learn how maple syrup is made.

Best Time to Visit Vermont: Month-by-Month

I firmly believe that you can have an amazing Vermont vacation any time of year! Here’s my complete breakdown by month for the best month to visit Vermont, depending on what you want to get out of it.

January in Vermont

January is Vermont’s coldest month, and with any luck, the ground will be covered with snow, ski resorts will be bustling, and winter lovers will be taking advantage of snowshoeing, winter hiking, ice skating, snowmobiling, and cross-country skiing.

Outside of the mountain towns that support ski resorts, January is a quiet month, and perfect for a winter escape with affordable lodging. Here’s an overview of our favorite winter getaways in Vermont .

February in Vermont

Temperatures in February are a little warmer than in January, and it’s generally the snowiest month to visit. February is a great month for planning a ski trip or a romantic Vermont vacation to celebrate Valentine’s Day. Small mountain ponds and the bays in Lake Champlain will (hopefully) be completely iced over, and ice shanties will pop up with anglers all over Vermont. In January and February, you’ll find winter festivals all over the state.

March in Vermont

March is maple season in Vermont and the best time to visit to learn how maple syrup is made. In the lower elevations, it’s also mud season , which means too much snow mixed with rain and dirt roads and trails that are virtually impassable.

Cars, boots, and clothing become caked with the stuff, making spring cleaning a fruitless endeavor. Mud season is the cheapest time to visit Vermont and a perfect month for a spa getaway.

April in Vermont

Spring in Vermont is gorgeous, but April is a little early to really feel that warm sunshine. The trees are still bare in April, but you’ll start seeing spring bulbs and wildflowers, which will make your heart swell with anticipation.

The ice melts off the lakes and rivers in late March, which means it’s a perfect time for spring paddling and fishing. Baby farm animals are frolicking in new pastures, and all of Vermont is outside in their shirtsleeves, even when the temperatures dictate otherwise.

May in Vermont

May is one of my favorite months in Vermont because it’s finally the growing season! Farm stores start opening with spinach, lettuce, asparagus, and seedlings. Farmers’ Markets move outside, and the trails dry up just in time for all the hikers that descend upon them. Waterfalls are at their fullest in May, and migrating birds have returned.

Green Up Vermont happens on the first Saturday in May, and communities all over the state come out to clean up trash from our parks, roads, and riverways. And finally, most Vermont State Parks open for the season on Memorial Day weekend.

June in Vermont

June in Vermont means strawberries, wildflowers, long days, and black flies. It’s one of the best months to visit Vermont for outdoor activities, although swimming will still be cold unless you’re a hearty soul. Outdoor patios at restaurants will be reliably open in June, and campgrounds will start filling up. June is a great time to meander down Church Street in Burlington for a little al fresco dining and shopping.

July in Vermont

This is high summer, which means Fourth of July fireworks all over the state, summer concert series, maple creemees, farmers’ markets bursting with fresh produce, and swimming holes full of people. July is a great time to visit the Lake Champlain Islands or the mountain town of Stowe for a hiking vacation .

August in Vermont

In August, the corn is ready. Not to mention fresh tomatoes, peppers, and eggplant. It’s a time for outdoor cookouts, long days at the lake, and county fairs. Vermonters hold tight to August, lest those long summer days slip through our fingers before we’ve eaten enough corn-on-the-cob, or danced at enough concerts in the park.

There’s nothing like an August afternoon spent exploring Vermont’s small towns and villages, discovering  hidden swimming holes , and checking out the last of the summer festivals.

Need some end-of-summer inspiration? Celebrate August in Vermont by putting these f abulous events on your calendar.

September in Vermont

September in Vermont is magical — the leaves are just starting to change, the days are warm and the nights are cool.

The foliage season isn’t quite here, so you won’t be competing with throngs of tourists for hotel rooms and restaurant reservations. You will, however, get to experience an abundant supply of farm-fresh veggies, apple picking at local orchards, several old-fashioned harvest festivals and fairs, and the friendly hospitality Vermont is known for.

This is the perfect time of year to go for a scenic drive to explore Vermont’s small towns. Try Wilmington , Manchester , Shelburne, Bristol , or Brattleboro .

October in Vermont

The Green Mountain State shines in just about every season, but Vermont in October is special. October is when people travel from near and far to get a glimpse of the thrilling carpet of colors that blanket the mountains, forests, and fields.

Of course, there’s more to Vermont in the fall than colorful leaves. Do you want to  hike beautiful Vermont trails and drive country roads? Visit tourist attractions? Enjoy  fall festivals ? The best places to visit in Vermont in the fall depend a lot on what you enjoy doing.

There’s one thing for certain — October is the busiest month to visit Vermont and the most expensive too. Make your reservations early and be prepared to share the state with all the other visitors who come for a glimpse of those fall colors!

November in Vermont

This is what we call stick season, and it’s such a peaceful time to visit. While the bright colors of October have disappeared by early November, there are still shades of rusty orange and yellows in the November woods. November is deer season in Vermont, so if you do venture into the woods, be sure to wear blaze orange so everyone can see you.

November is another great month for finding lower hotel prices, and you may even catch an early snowstorm!

December in Vermont

If you’ve never enjoyed a small-town holiday festival in Vermont, sipped a cup of cocoa while watching a festive Christmas parade, or enjoyed a boisterous New Year’s Eve in Burlington, this is your year!

Vermonters love the winter holidays — the snow (of course), but also long nights, twinkling lights, and unique shopping opportunities in local stores.

December in Vermont is magical, especially if you are merrymaking at one of these spectacular holiday events or shopping for that classic Vermont gift .

Every month in Vermont holds something special for visitors, so if you’re looking for the best time to visit Vermont, my advice is to come when you can! You’ll be rewarded with beautiful scenery, friendly people, and lots of amazing things to do!

Follow us on social media for more Vermont inspiration!

Tara Schatz is a freelance writer and the founder and editor-in-chief of Vermont Explored and Back Road Ramblers , an American road trip blog. She is also the co-author of the 3rd edition of AMC’s Best Day Hikes in Vermont, released in May 2023, and the author of 100+ Wonderful Ways to Experience Vermont.

The 14 Places You Absolutely Must Visit In Vermont This Spring

Kristin Grimes

Kristin Grimes lives in Vermont, is a freelance writer and busy MOM (Manager of Madness) and WIFE (Washing, Ironing, Feeding, Etc.)

More by this Author

Spring is a time for renewal, so let’s get out that bucket list and add a few places to get us out and about. We’ve gathered some of our favorite places that would be perfect in any type of weather, so let’s see where spring exploring in VT may take you this season.

Related Stories

The 11 Places You Absolutely Must Visit In Vermont This Spring

The 12 Very Best Places To Go In Vermont This Spring

The Dreamy Peony Farm In Vermont You'll Want To Visit This Spring

If April showers are getting you down, check out these 15 rainy day activities in Vermont .

OnlyInYourState may earn compensation through affiliate links in this article. As an Amazon Associate, we earn from qualifying purchases.

Want more Vermont in your inbox?

Get the latest on things to see, do, and eat around Vermont!

Thank you! You'll receive your first newsletter soon!

An error occured.

Related Articles

• Enjoy Thousands Of Fragrant Blooms At This Springtime Peony Garden In Vermont
• Try Out This Mini Vermont Road Trip Where You Can View Spring From Your Car
• Watch Out For These 7 Birds That'll Be Appearing Again In Vermont Backyards During Spring
• Take This Road Trip To The 5 Most Eye-Popping Peony Fields In Vermont
• 17 Charming River Towns In Vermont To Visit This Spring
• Enjoy A Memorable Brunch At This Delicious Farm-To-Table Restaurant In Vermont
• Here Are The 7 Best Fourth Of July Fireworks In Vermont
• The Spontaneous Road Trip Through Vermont That Is The Perfect Weekend Of Adventure

Explore Vermont

16 Most Beautiful Towns In Vermont You Should Visit

V ermont is one of New England's most stunning states, worth visiting year-round for its diverse attractions and activities. Autumn is the perfect time to enjoy Vermont’s fall foliage on a mountain train ride , while in winter, tourists take scenic winter drives that showcase spectacular snow-covered landscapes. Pro-tip, though, when figuring out how to plan a budget-friendly ski trip to Vermont , look into season passes and off-season ticket deals.

Aside from its exciting year-round activities, Vermont has beautiful towns that are worth visiting any time of the year. From charming, historical towns to mountain towns, there are plenty of options to choose from when deciding which are the best towns to visit in Vermont. But here are the top recommendations.

UPDATE: 2023/10/19 16:18 EST BY ALICIA REMMY

Two More Of The Best Towns In Vermont Tourists Should Visit

Travelers looking for the prettiest towns in Vermont can never go wrong with these 16 picks. This list has been updated to give tourists more of the most beautiful towns in Vermont to help them get the most out of the Green Mountain State. Each town also has an added section of the top attractions to visit for relaxing or thrilling outdoor adventures.

Related: 8 Vermont State Parks With The Best Views

Bennington is one of the most beautiful snow-covered towns in Vermont . Tourists should visit in winter. But aside from its winter charm, there's a lot to keep travelers glued for days any time of the year. They enjoy exploring downtown, visiting historical attractions such as the Bennington Battle Monument and the Bennington Museum , and trying farm-to-table dishes for unique dining experiences.

The Apple Barn is one of New England's best little country bakeries, famous for its apple cider donuts and other signature flavors. Outdoor enthusiasts also find their fill hiking nearby hiking trails that lead them to breathtaking vistas and nature parks.

• Best places to visit in Bennington: Bennington Battle Monument, Bennington Museum, Old First Church, Park-McCullough Historic House, Bennington Center for the Arts

Apple Barn Country Bake Shop

• Address: 604 US Route 7 S, Bennington, VT 05201
• Hours: Daily, 8:30 am to 4:00 pm

Steeped in history and old-world charm, Weston is one of the most beautiful towns in Vermont worth visiting to enjoy the slow pace of life. Located in Windsor County, this charming town allows tourists to lose themselves in its quaintness while strolling along the streets with New England-style architecture and other sites dating back to the 80s.

The rolling hills of the breathtaking Green Mountains in Weston are the perfect places for outdoorsy people to hike, leaf peep, and ski, depending on the season. However, those interested in learning about the town’s history and what it was like in the 18th and 19th centuries head to The Old Mill Museum .

• Best places to visit in Weston: The Vermont Country Store Weston, The Old Mill Museum, Farrar-Mansur House, The Weston Village Store

Weston Theater Company

• Address : 703 Main St, Weston, VT 05161, United States
• Hours: 7:30 pm for evening performances (check this website for upcoming events )

Shelburne is one of the most popular, prettiest towns in Vermont for a reason. It has plenty of fun activities for people of all ages, such as those at Shelburne Farms . They offer a wide variety of delectable local maple syrup and Vermont cheeses, as well as a variety of fun activities, tours, and workshops.

Another interesting place to visit in town is the Shelburne Museum , founded in the middle of the twentieth century and has exhibits on art and design spread across 39 different structures. The town also has charming shops, art galleries, and restaurants, celebrating Vermont's rich heritage and regional cuisine.

• Best places to visit in Shelburne: Shelburne Museum, Shelburne Farms, Shelburne Orchards, Fiddlehead Brewing Company, Shelburne Vineyard

Shelburne Museum

• Address: 6000 Shelburne Road, Shelburne, VT 05482
• Hours: Daily, 10:00 am to 5:00 pm ( May 13 through October 22)

Shelburne Farms

• Address: 1611 Harbor Road Shelburne, Vermont 05482
• Hours: Daily, 10:00 am to 5:30 pm ( May 13 through October 22)

Brattleboro

Brattleboro, Vermont, offers a wealth of attractions for a trip that is both exciting and relaxing, including a charming downtown, fascinating museums, galleries, and restaurants, as well as fun festivals, including the annual Brattleboro. Its picturesque setting, surrounded by majestic mountains, dense forests, and a serene river, makes it a perfect place for a nature retreat.

The quaint downtown area, with its stores, galleries, and farm-to-table restaurants, offers lovely experiences. The Creamery Covered Bridge is another top-rated attraction in Vermont that draws tourists with its historic charm and attractive backdrop for photo opportunities.

• Best places to visit in Brattleboro: Brattleboro Museum & Art Center, Fort Dummer State Park, Madame Sherri Forest, Brattleboro Farmers' Market, Creamery Covered Bridge, Molly Stark State Park

Creamery Covered Bridge

• Address: Guilford Street Off Route 9 West, Over Whetstone Brook, Brattleboro, VT 05301

Williston, Vermont, near Lake Champlain, is a haven for outdoor enthusiasts and thrill seekers with opportunities like hiking, biking, fishing, kayaking, and boating amid picturesque landscapes. Furthermore, the town is home to many parks and natural areas, including the Green Mountains, which provide peaceful settings for exploration and relaxation.

Williston's bustling downtown area also has numerous independently owned stores, eateries, and breweries, providing a taste of Vermont's distinct culture. Locals love The Green Meadows Grill for its delectable staples, like hotdogs, burgers, sandwiches, and Philly Cheesesteaks.

• Best places to visit in Williston: Catamount Outdoor Family Center, Lake Iroquois Recreation Area, Vermont National Country Club, Green Mountain Audubon Center, Williston Village Farmers Market, Brownell Mountain Trails

The Green Meadows Grill

• Address: 2738 N Williston Rd, Williston, VT 05495-8823, United St, Williston, VT 05495
• Hours: Tuesday, Wednesday, Friday: 11:00 am to 3:00 pm; Thursdays : 11:00 am to 7:00 pm

One of the best towns in Vermont to visit is the rural town of Lincoln. Lincoln’s history dates back to 1780 , when the town was chartered by the Vermont Legislature. Lincoln is the perfect getaway for travelers desiring a laid-back vacation in a farm country. The town sits at the foot of Mount Abraham and near New Haven River, offering up some breathtaking landscapes. The Old Hotel, Lincoln’s historic 1840s hotel, is a great spot to stay. Guests comment on this B&B’s kind staff, cozy rooms, and delicious breakfast.

• Best places to visit in Lincoln: The Lincoln General Store, Lincoln Gap Road, The Old Hotel, Sunset Ledge Trail Head
• Address: 233 E River Rd, Lincoln, VT 05443
• Amenities: Wi-Fi, free parking, free breakfast, self-serve laundry, air-conditioning

Related: 10 Incredible Hiking Trails In Vermont That Will Lead To Picturesque Waterfalls

Vermont is the perfect winter state due to its beautiful snow-covered towns , including the town of Waitsfield. During the summer months, the small town streets are lined with bright green trees, while the winter landscape includes snowy mountains and icicles. Travelers enjoy visiting Waitsfield in winter, thanks to the beautiful Mad River River Valley . This charming ski resort features a variety of trails for beginners and experts. Add to this charming lodging option for the ultimate vacation.

• Best places to visit in Waitsfield: Mad River Ski Area, The Big Picture Theater & Café, Ben & Jerry's, Lawson’s Finest Liquids

Mad River Glen Cooperative

• Address: 57 Schuss Pass, Waitsfield, VT 05673, United States

Related: This Vermont Town (& Bridge) Might Look Familiar If You're A 'Beetlejuice' Fan

One of ten small towns in Vermont, perfect for a weekend trip , is Dorset. Dorset is home to the oldest marble quarry in the United States , established in 1785. Located right off Highway 30, this attraction includes marble stones, small cliffs, and a swimming hole and was a must-visit stop in Dorset, but now it is closed for tourists.

Travelers enjoy jumping into the waters below and going for a dip on hot summer days. The rest of the town is beautiful as well, featuring hiking trails, biking trails, mountain streams, and local markets.

• Best places to visit in Dorset: Dorset Playhouse & Theater Festival, Emerald Lake State Park, Bromley Mountain, Green Mountains, Dorset Farmers Market, Barrows House

Emerald Lake State Park

• Address: 65 Emerald Lake Lane, East Dorset, VT 05253
• Hours: 10 am - official sunset

Located in the pretty area of Southern Vermont, this New England town is known for its rows of historic buildings and beautiful mountain views. It's one of the small Vermont towns tourists should visit in the fall for many exciting outdoor activities that showcase stunning fall foliage. Travelers interested in history will enjoy visiting the Grafton Historical Society Museum , a museum that shares Grafton’s history with visitors. The museum includes documents and artifacts from Grafton’s early manufacturing and farming days, as well as diaries from Civil War times and dioramas of the town.

• Best places to visit in Grafton: Grafton Village Cheese Company, Grafton Trails & Outdoor Center, and The Nature Museum at Grafton

Grafton Historical Society Museum

• Address: 147 Main St, Grafton, VT 05146
• Hours: Tuesday 2-4 pm, Sunday 2-4 pm

The cool Vermont town of Waterbury is a must-visit spot for foodies. Waterbury is known for its superb farm-to-table restaurants, as well as its craft breweries. Stop by Cold Hollow Cider Mill for the best cider and fresh baked goods. Cold Hollow’s hard cider is delicious, as well as freshly made cider donuts. Guests craving a heartier meal will enjoy the mill’s sandwiches and cheddar cheese biscuits.

• Best places to visit in Waterbury: The Prohibition Pig Restaurant, Camels Hump State Park, The Ben & Jerry’s Factory, Cold Hollow Cider Mill

Cold Hollow Cider Mill

• Address: 3600 Waterbury-Stowe Rd, Waterbury Center, VT 05677
• Hours: 8 am-6 pm daily

Killington is one of the prettiest towns in Vermont, luring adventurers with exciting outdoor adventures year-round. But during winter, tourists access the largest ski resort in the Eastern United States, Killington Ski Resort , with 22 ski lifts and 155 trails extending across several interconnected mountains. Nicknamed the “Beast of the East,” this winter haven has the best skiing and boarding conditions, where thrill seekers take private or group lessons to satisfy their thrill. Once the snow melts, travelers can mountain bike, hike, and rock climb in the summer or leaf peep in Gifford Woods State Park .

• Places to visit in Killington: Gifford Woods State Park, Killington Ski Resort, Killington Distillery, Greenbrier Gift Shop, Mad Hatter's Scoops

Gifford Woods State Park

• Address: 34 Gifford Woods Acc, Killington, VT 05751, United States
• Hours: 10 am - Sunset

Another one of the most beautiful towns in Vermont is Woodstock. Many travelers enjoy exploring Woodstock in the fall months, as it is one of Vermont’s best towns to celebrate the fall season in . The town is surrounded by bright red, orange, and yellow trees, and Woodstock’s nature trails are breathtaking in the fall months. Popular outdoor activities in the area include hiking, running, golfing, biking, horseback riding, fishing, swimming, and paddleboarding.

Guests in Woodstock seeking the traditional farm life experience will enjoy a day at Billings Farm & Museum . This museum offers exhibits, hands-on activities like milking a cow, and the ability to meet farm animals.

• Best places to visit in Woodstock: Taftsville Covered Bridge, Billings Farm & Museum, Marsh-Billings-Rockefeller National Historical Park, Sugarbush Farm, Woodstock Town Hall Theatre

Billings Farm & Museum

• Address: 69 Old River Rd, Woodstock, VT 05091
• Hours: Saturday-Sunday, 10 am-4 pm

Skiers and snowboarders should visit Stowe, one of Vermont’s charming small towns. When planning the ultimate trip to Stowe, Vermont’s ski town , travelers should learn the best ways to get around the town and the best spots to stay. There are lovely tiny home rentals throughout Vermont , including the cozy Stowe Waterfalls Cottage. The cottage includes a kitchenette, queen bed, and outdoor fire pit.

The must-visit ski area in town is Stowe Mountain Resort . The resort features ski lifts, ski and snowboarding lessons, lodging, and equipment rentals. Athletes who enjoy freestyle terrain skiing will love the resort’s freestyle terrain park, featuring jumps, ramps, boxes, quarter pipes, and more.

• Best places to visit in Stowe: Stowe Mountain Resort, The Alchemist Brewery, Mount Mansfield, Smugglers Notch State Park, Moss Glen Falls

Stowe Mountain Resort

• Address: 5781 Mountain Rd, Stowe, VT 05672
• Hours: 9:30 am-4:30 pm daily

Related: How Vermont's Ski Resorts Differ From Those In Colorado (& Which Are Better)

One of the prettiest areas of Vermont is Montpelier and the surrounding area. Montpelier prides itself on offering the perfect balance of small-town charm and big-city life. This town, which is also Vermont’s capital, features a mix of historic buildings, government buildings, local storefronts, and restaurants.

Located in a valley by the Green Mountains, Montpelier offers stellar nature views. During the winter months, guests enjoy sledding through the valley and admiring the snowy scenery. Other outdoor adventures include hiking at Hubbard Park and North Branch Park and kayaking the Winooski River.

• Places to visit in Montpelier: Vermont State House, Hubbard Park, Vermont Historical Society Museum, North Branch Vineyards, Bragg Farm Sugar House, Montpelier Mud

Hubbard Park

• Address: 400 Parkway St, Montpelier, VT 05602, United States
• Hours: 7:00 am to 9:00 pm

Chester, Vermont, is known for its charming Chester Village Historic District . Listed on the National Register of Historic Places, this section of town features wood-frame buildings, mid-1800s buildings, and several shops.

Visitors enjoy the slow-paced vibe of this town, spending leisurely afternoons strolling the town’s streets. There are plenty of antique shops, art galleries, and restaurants to try in Chester. The town’s website lists a series of events , including Chester Rod & Gun Club and Bingo, held Thursdays from 6:30 pm to 7:30 pm.

• Best places to visit in Chester: Chester Village Green, Stone House Antique Center, DaVallia Gallery & Boutique, Magic Mountain Ski Area

Chester Rod & Gun Club

• Address: 4137 VT Route 11 West in Chester, Vermont
• Hours: Sundays, 10 am - 1 pm
• Address: Grand Hall, near VT Route 103 North, Vermont
• Hours: Thursdays, 6:30 pm – 7:30 pm

Related: 10 Things To Do In Manchester: Complete Guide To Vermont's Scenic, Central Small Town

A Southern Vermont town worth visiting is the beautiful Manchester. There are plenty of fun and unique attractions in this town, including The American Museum of Fly Fishing and Seven Springs Garden & Sculpture Park .

While visiting Manchester, guests should explore Hildene, The Lincoln Family Home, formerly owned by Robert Lincoln. Guided tours are available for an extra fee for guests wishing to brush up on their history and learn about this historic site. Other visitors enjoy exploring the outdoor gardens and trails.

• Best places to visit in Manchester: Hildene, The Lincoln Family Home- Welcome Center, Southern Vermont Arts Center, The Golf Club at The Equinox
• Address: 1005 Hildene Rd, Manchester, VT 05255
• Hours: Thursday-Monday 10 am-4:30 pm, closed Tuesday-Wednesday

Please support our work!

•  in Articles & Posts
•  in Locations
•  in Events
•  in Videos
•  in Slideshows
• View Profile
• Edit Profile

Arts+Culture

• Home+Design

Classifieds

Browse news, departments.

• From the Publisher
• Vermont News Quiz
• Letters to the Editor
• Obits + Celebrations (Life Lines)

Food + Drink Features

What Vermont’s Classic American Diners Tell Us…

Whistleblower Alleges iSun Leaders Misled Shareholders Ahead…

Vermont Health Officials Prepare for Bird Flu…

• Vermont's 'Orwellian' Butter Gets a Shout-Out in Hit Show 'The Bear' True 802 0
• From the Deputy Publisher: Hope for Democracy From the Publisher 0
• Vermont Launches Problem Gambling Support Website Politics 0

Browse Arts + Culture

• theater shows
• Art Reviews
• Call to Artists
• Performing Arts
• Submit Event/Show
• Ask the Rev.
• Life Stories
• Magnificent 7
• Stuck In Vermont (videos)

Three to Six Hours in Newport, Vermont’s…

• Québec Guide

Wanda Koop Brings Haunting, Complex Paintings to…

Vermont Filmmaker Jay Craven Premieres His Historical…

• newest issue
• recent issues
• open houses

local resources

• Architects & Designers
• Building Products
• Gardens & Landscapes
• Home Financing
• Home Services
• Real Estate Professionals

Nest — Summer 2024

Real estate.

Settlement of a Federal Lawsuit Will Change How Real Estate Agents Are Paid

Richard Alther’s Lakeside Home Is a Memorial to His Own History — and Vermont’s

Browse food + drink.

• restaurants

Tiny Thai Restaurant

• Dining on a Dime
• Grilling the Chef
• Home on the Range

Small Pleasures

Rediscovering Sheffield Seitan, an Old-Fashioned Vegetarian Protein…

Browse cannabis.

Cannabis Company Could Lose License for Using…

'Cannasations' Podcaster Kris Brown Aims to 'Humanize'…

A Burlington Cannabis Shop Plans to Host…

Judge Tosses Burlington Cannabiz Owner's Lawsuit

Health + fitness.

Vermont's Cannabis Nurse Hotline Answers Health Questions…

Browse music, music news + views.

• Music Articles
• Album Reviews
• Submit Club Dates

Soundbites: The Busy Morning Band Tours Vermont…

On the Beat: EDM 'Revolver' Series Returns,…

Album review.

The Pilgrims, 'Joking but Serious'

Soundbites: Wilco Make a Summer Mix for…

Browse on screen.

• film events
• Movie+TV Reviews

Movie Review: 'Janet Planet'

Now playing.

Now Playing in Theaters: July 3-9

Movie Review: 'The Bikeriders'

Now Playing in Theaters: June 26-July 2

Browse events.

• Staff Picks

Rock the Dock

Cabot's July 4th Celebration

Quick links.

• This Weekend
• Submit Event

Michael Richard Bleier, 1979-2024

• In Memoriam

Krisann Paquette, 1963-2020

Matthew Katz, 1946-2024

Sally MacLeod Reichert, 1948-2024

• All Life Lines Posts
• Post an Announcement

Robert Boyd, 1949-2024

Browse classifieds.

Transportation

cars/trucks bicycles sell your ride

health/wellness home/garden post your service

• Buy This Stuff

all merchandise sell your stuff

all categories post your class

apartments homes for sale for sale by owner post your listing

• Legal Notices

browse notices post a notice

Browse Personals

If you're looking for "I Spys," dating or LTRs, this is your scene.

• Post Your Profile
• Newest Pics

Special Reports

• Aging in VT
• Good Citizen
• Best of Vermont

July 01, 2024 Arts + Culture » Magnificent 7

The Magnificent 7: Must See, Must Do, July 3-9 

Published July 1, 2024 at 5:24 p.m.

• Courtesy Of Phil Bobrow
• Fourth of July Parade and Festivities

Marching Orders

The town of Warren steps lively at its singular 4th of July Parade and Festivities . The procession of quirky floats and merry musicians is followed by hot dogs, a street dance and a unique get-to-know-your-neighbors scheme: Pay $1 for a numbered "Buddy Badge," then find the other person in the crowd with the same number and you'll both win a prize.

Truth to Power

• Reading Frederick Douglass

Rokeby Museum in Ferrisburgh marks Independence Day with its annual Reading Frederick Douglass event. Audience members take part by reading portions of the abolitionist, orator and statesman's famous address "What to the Slave Is the Fourth of July?" Douglass first gave the powerful speech on July 5, 1852, as the keynote at an event commemorating the signing of the Declaration of Independence.

Come Together

Bondeko  bring a multicultural mélange to the Next Stage Arts Bandwagon Summer Series in Putney. The musicians in the Portland, Maine-based outfit span generations and originally hail from Albania, Guinea, Paris and Austin, Texas, creating a sound that's an unlikely — and unforgettable — collaboration.

Into the Woods

• Courtesy Of Catherine Aranda-learned
• Ellen "LN" Bethea

Vermont Humanities marks two anniversaries — its own 50th and the 100th of Vermont State Parks — with its Words in the Woods series. In the second of five gatherings, listeners soak in the natural beauty at Kill Kare State Park in St. Albans as spoken word poet Ellen "LN" Bethea (pictured) shares her work. Stay and enjoy the day at the park afterward: Entrance fees are covered for participants.

• Cynthia Huard

The Rochester Chamber Music Society salutes one of its own at the Federated Church of Rochester when pianist Cynthia Huard plays her final concert, a coda to her 30 years as the group's artistic director. She's joined by cellist Ani Kalayjian and violinists Adda Kridler and Mary Rowell in a bittersweet program that includes works by Johann Sebastian Bach, Gabriel Fauré and native Vermonter Nico Muhly.

Fête the Farm

Wednesday 10.

• Pizza social at Miller Farm in Vernon

Northeast Organic Farming Association of Vermont hosts a Pizza Social at Miller Farm in Vernon, part of a summerlong series highlighting historic farms and hardworking farmers around the state. Foodies enjoy wood-fired pizza and soft-serve ice cream made from Miller Farm milk before a hayride and farm tour. Catch upcoming installments of the series in Middletown Springs, Shoreham, Johnson, East Hardwick and North Thetford.

Paint the Town

• "Carnival at Royalton, VT" by Cecil C. Bell

If you missed last summer's attendance-record-breaking exhibitions of " For the Love of Vermont: The Lyman Orton Collection ," here's another chance. The Vermont Historical Society presents a reprise showing at the Vermont History Museum in Montpelier. The selection of 20th-century works by Vermont artists is a love letter to the Green Mountain State.

Related Events

Staff picks 'for the love of vermont' @ vermont history museum.

• More than 80 works from the Lyman Orton collection painted between 1910 and 1970....
• July 3-Dec. 31

User Submitted 75th Annual Warren 4th of July Parade @ Various Warren locations

• Floats, fireworks and family fun fill the village with music and merriment for Independence Day. See madrivervalley.com for full schedule....
• Thu., July 4, 10 a.m.-9:30 p.m. Free.

Reading Frederick Douglass @ Rokeby Museum

• Audience members take active part in a recitation of Douglass’ famous address, “What to the Slave Is the Fourth of July?,” first given on July...
• Fri., July 5, 1-3 p.m. Free.

User Submitted Words in the Woods: Ellen 'LN' Bethea @ Kill Kare State Park

• Listeners soak in the natural beauty around them while the spoken word poet reads from her work as part of this Vermont Humanities series. ASL...
• Sat., July 6, 11 a.m.-12 p.m. Free; preregister.

Bandwagon Summer Series: Bondeko @ Cooper Field

• A collaboration of musicians from Portland, Maine's migrant community play tunes from all over the world....
• Sat., July 6, 6 p.m. $20-25; Free for children under 12.

Rochester Chamber Music Society @ Federated Church of Rochester

• Cellist Ani Kalajian and violinists Adda Kridler and Mary Rowell join pianist Cynthia Huard in her final concert as the organization’s artistic director....
• Sun., July 7, 4-5:30 p.m. Donations accepted.

Pizza Social @ Miller Farm

• Farm-fresh slices are on the menu along with soft-serve ice cream....
• Wed., July 10, 5:30 p.m. $15-30; free for BIPOC.

Tags: Magnificent 7 , 4th of July Parade and Festivities , Reading Frederick Douglass , Bondeko , Words in the Woods , Ellen "LN" Bethea , Rochester Chamber Music Society , Cynthia Huard , Pizza Social , For the Love of Vermont , The Lyman Orton Collection

More Magnificent 7 »

More By This Author

The Magnificent 7: Must See, Must Do, June 26-July 2

Summer is here, and there's no shortage of ways for vermonters to connect learn and have a good time. we've compiled seven must-do events, including rock the dock, the annual independence day soirée at burlington's community sailing center..

• By Emily Hamilton
• Jun 24, 2024

In Case You Missed It: Can't Miss Summer Events

• By Emily Hamilton and Ken Picard
• Jun 4, 2024

The Magnificent 7: Must See, Must Do, June 5-11

Summer is right around the corner, and there's no shortage of ways for vermonters to connect learn and have a good time. we've compiled seven must-do events, including an appearance by erica heilman, the storyteller behind the acclaimed vermont podcast "rumble strip," at south hero's worthen library..

• Jun 3, 2024
• More »

About The Author

Emily Hamilton

Vermont Playwright and Musician Stephen Goldberg Dies

Hit the Trails: Five Fun Family Hikes

Artist Sarah Amos Wins 2024 Vermont Prize

Speaking of...

A Dual Exhibition of the Lyman Orton Collection Showcases Vermont

The Magnificent 7: Must See, Must Do, June 29-July 5

Summer Must-Dos: A Flotilla Concert, Picnic Concert Series and Poetry in the Woods

From 2014-2020, Seven Days allowed readers to comment on all stories posted on our website. While we've appreciated the suggestions and insights, right now Seven Days is prioritizing our core mission — producing high-quality, responsible local journalism — over moderating online debates between readers. To criticize, correct or praise our reporting, please send us a letter to the editor or send us a tip . We’ll check it out and report the results. Online comments may return when we have better tech tools for managing them. Thanks for reading.

• 1. Vermont Playwright and Musician Stephen Goldberg Dies   Performing Arts
• 2. Hit the Trails: Five Fun Family Hikes   Kids VT
• 3. Artist Sarah Amos Wins 2024 Vermont Prize   Arts News
• 4. My Wife Leaves the Butter Dish out, but I Like It in the Fridge   Ask the Rev.
• 5. Vermont Filmmaker Jay Craven Premieres His Historical Epic 'Lost Nation'   Film
• 6. Three to Six Hours in Newport, Vermont’s North Coast   Culture
• 7. Through Dance, Music and Storytelling, 'Vulture Sister Song' Explores Humans and Nature   Performing Arts
• 1. Three to Six Hours in Windsor   Culture
• 2. Video: Nick Morse Has Been Planting Peonies in Chittenden County for 40 Years   Stuck in Vermont
• 3. Burlington’s Semipro Soccer Team, Vermont Green FC, Is Winning On and Off the Field   Outdoors & Recreation
• 4. 'Suffs' Creator Shaina Taub Wins Two Tony Awards   Theater
• 5. Québec’s Powwow Season, a Summer Tradition, Kicks Off   Québec Guide
• 6. Hit the Trails: Five Fun Family Hikes   Kids VT
• 7. In 'The Quarry Project Echoes,' Artists Reflect on Hannah Dennison's Singular Dance Production   Art Review

Latest in Category

The Magnificent 7: Must See, Must Do, June 19-25

Summer is here, and there's no shortage of ways for vermonters to connect learn and have a good time. we've compiled seven must-do events, including remarkable reptile day at vermont institute of natural science in quechee..

• By Angela Simpson
• Jun 17, 2024

The Magnificent 7: Must See, Must Do, June 12-18

Summer is right around the corner, and there's no shortage of ways for vermonters to connect learn and have a good time. we've compiled seven must-do events, including a performance by grammy-nominated scottish musician kt tunstall at spruce peak performing arts center in stowe..

• Jun 10, 2024

Local Job Openings

Keep up with us seven days a week, sign up for our fun and informative newsletters:.

• Know It All (all stories in the past 24 hours)
• Sunday Best (weekly editor picks)
• The Daily 7 (top news headlines)
• Bite Club (food news and reviews)
• Nest Notes (real estate tips, DIY décor)
• NOW (staff picks for the weekend)
• Stuck in Vermont (weekly videos)
• Cannabeat (cannabis news)
• Wee-Mail (family fun from Kids VT)
• Tech Jam (event updates)
• See examples of each newsletter...

find, follow, fan us:

• Advertising Info •
• Submissions •
• Sponsorships •
• Company News •
• About Us •

• Digital Edition
• Theme Issues

stuff to do

• Event Calendar

places to go

• Restaurants
• All Locations
• Report: Aging in Vermont
• Report: Bernie Sanders
• Report: Coronavirus
• Report: Eldercare
• Report: Housing Crisis
• Report: Nonprofits
• Report: Opioid Crisis
• Report: Our Towns
• Report: Prisons
• Report: Waiting for Health Care
• Restaurant Reviews
• Soundbites (music news)
• Best of Vermont (Seven Daysies)
• Good Citizen Challenge
• Nest Quarterly
• Vermont Restaurant Week
• Vermont Tech Jam
• What's Good
• Professional Services
• Restaurant Week

Day Trips in Vermont: Lakeside adventures, rural curiosities and plenty of creemees

Summer is a great season to explore a new part of Vermont, or turn down an unfamiliar road in a region you've visited many times before. You may stumble upon a well-stocked farm stand that runs on the honor system, or encounter a rare bird, an ancient fossil or a museum exhibit about dust.

Here, we've collected things to do in the Green Mountain State's most populous area — Burlington and the towns within easy reach of it — and the Northeast Kingdom, its most rural area. We seek to highlight some lesser-known gems because — let's be honest — most of the best things to do in Vermont are off the beaten path. But don't worry, you'll never be too far from a creemee stand.

This guide will be updated with additional recommendations.

Journalists from the New England News Collaborative have been on the road, seeking out the best local spots in the region. Find ideas here for other New England states.

Jump to a section:

Burlington area and northwest Vermont

Northeast kingdom.

As the state’s most populous city, Burlington serves as a cultural and economic hub on the shore of Lake Champlain. The city itself is home to award-winning restaurants, historical landmarks and local arts — plus the vibrancy that comes with being a college town.

With easy access to the lake, and a short drive away from mountains and swimming holes, the Burlington area is a nature lover’s playground.

These recommendations will help you venture outside the city, from the small towns situated near Mount Mansfield to the lakeside spots hiding in the Champlain Islands. All of these activities are roughly within a one-hour drive of Burlington.

What to do if you're a…

Nature lover, take a hike.

Vermont’s tallest mountain, Mount Mansfield, sits east of Burlington and is equipped with plenty of hiking trails.

Begin at Underhill State Park for the full Mansfield Loop Trail , a challenging nearly 8-mile hike with more than 2,800 feet of elevation gain. That trail may not be for a casual explorer, but the park area has plenty of other hiking options — plus, it’s a wildlife and birding hot spot.

For smaller hikes, try trails in the Jericho/Underhill area.

Mills Riverside Park in Jericho has several hiking trails, open meadow lands and a covered bridge — all topped off with great views of Mount Mansfield. Dogs are welcome in the park — especially in the designated “off leash” area where they can run or swim.

Get your birding on in Franklin County

The Missisquoi National Wildlife Refuge area in Franklin County is a nationally protected area thanks to the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service (and any duck stamp fans around).

The refuge has several nature trails that make spotting wildlife easy — it’s especially perfect for birding fans or insect fanatics.

The welcome center in Swanton has visitor information, local wildlife artwork for sale, binoculars for borrowing and even outdoor exploration kits for kids.

Go for a swim on the Champlain Islands

There are plenty of swimming spots across the Champlain Islands. Spend a day beach hopping, or pick one to lounge around on all day.

Alburgh Dunes State Park is a natural sand beach and one of Lake Champlain’s largest beaches. The park is open from 10 a.m. to sunset for a small day use fee, or a punch on a Vermont State Park season pass. Alburgh Dunes is equipped with minimal facilities, and camping is not permitted. Make sure to pack your own drinking water — and if you bring some snacks, you can make use of the picnic area and grills.

If you don’t want to swim, there’s also fishing, paddle boarding, canoeing, kayaking and boating. There’s also a playground for kids.

More from Vermont Public: How three unassuming plants link Vermont to its glacial past

There are, of course, plenty of other places to swim on the islands — like Grand Isle State Park, Sand Bar State Park, or, just across the bridge into Colchester, Niquette Bay State Park .

Curiosity seeker

Browse cool things (and save the planet) in burlington.

Junktiques Collective in Burlington is an opportunity not only to shop for cool old items, but to help reduce landfill waste and give back to the community. Junktiques' inventory is stocked at least in part with salvaged items other people considered junk.

The store also welcomes bartering and trading.

Find fossils on the Champlain Islands

The Chazy Fossil Reef is a stretch of fossils found in New York and Vermont. In Vermont, the Chazy Reef runs across the Champlain Islands. It’s currently known as the oldest diverse fossil reef in the world, and is a protected area through the National Natural Landmarks Program .

There are plenty of stops on the islands to spot some trilobites or stromatoporoids, but Goodsell Ridge Fossil Preserve in Isle La Motte has free, year-round access to parts of the Chazy Fossil Reef. Take a self-guided tour of the discovery areas trail, and stop by the visitor’s center if the flag is out.

See some sculptures in Enosburg Falls

If you’re looking for a break from the natural wonders of Vermont, you may want to check out some human-made wonders at the Cold Hollow Sculpture Park in Enosburg Falls .

The park has over 70 sculptures made by David Stromeyer on grounds that visitors can walk through free of cost (but donations to support the park are accepted). Stop by the welcome barn for more information, including a map.

Sweet treat connoisseur

Pick up some pie in underhill.

“Pie fixes everything” — at least according to Poorhouse Pies in Underhill .

The bakery specializes in small batch pies, including sweet options like apple or maple cream as well as savory flavors.

If you’re looking for a portable option on your way for a walk in Mills Riverside or Underhill State Park, they’ve got single-serve hand pies, and — pro tip — occasional donut options on scheduled Sundays (check their site and socials or call the shop for any donut information needs).

Consume creemees and cones

If there’s one requirement for a day out in Vermont, it’s a creemee .

If you’re grabbing a cone on your way to Underhill for a hike, stop by Sweet Scoops in Essex off of Route 15 for a classic maple creemee or ice cream sundae.

If you need something to cool down with after exploring the islands all day, grab a cone at Seb’s Snack Bar in South Hero.

And if you’re sticking around closer to Burlington, Winooski’s Offbeat Creemee at Myers Pool is a good option. Their menu is 100% plant-based.

Visit Vermont’s best-known sweet spot

Vermont's most famous ice cream is not a creemee, but the dense pints of Ben & Jerry’s that are sold worldwide.

Of course you could stop by the iconic Waterbury facilities and grab a scoop after taking the factory tour.

But if you don’t want to travel all that way for a cone, stop by the Ben & Jerry’s scoop shop on Church Street in Burlington. After grabbing your favorite flavor, walk a few blocks to the intersection of College and St. Paul streets and find the plaque where the first-ever Ben & Jerry’s used to stand, in what was originally a renovated gas station. (The building is long gone.)

Music lover

Shop for new/old music.

Record players, cassettes and even CDs are coming back — and plenty of places in the Burlington area can help you stay in style and find new spins.

Burlington Records on College Street has new and used records with daily new arrivals. Speaking Volumes on Marble Avenue in Burlington has tens of thousands of records on sale, and new and used equipment. They also do repairs. And, just across the street you can find their bookstore, which houses tens of thousands of new and used books and magazines — so bring a book-loving friend along.

Autumn Records in Winooski buys and sells new and used vinyl, CDs and cassette tapes. They also host occasional events, which they also upload to YouTube if you can’t make it in person.

Attend a show

If you’re looking for live music performances, try grabbing tickets to one of the many acts Higher Ground in South Burlington pulls into town every year. They’ve got a range of performers on the calendar, from locals to big names.

If you’re looking for a more elevated, laid-back listening experience, Paradiso Hi-Fi in Burlington may be the way to go. The listening lounge just got a James Beard nod for its New England cuisine and creative cocktails.

Paradiso sets each evening’s night service to curated vinyl, played over their custom sound system — which gives this music venue a warmer feel focused on “experience and ritual.”

Dance the night away

If you’re looking for a place to end your day of exploring, do it with music and dancing at Radio Bean in downtown Burlington .

They’ve got a calendar packed with live music, poetry, theater and more. They serve local brews and cocktails to enjoy, too. The venue is 21 years old and up after 9 p.m.

Nectar’s , a music hall on Main Street in Burlington, is another spot for local live music, craft beer and cocktails, and pub food — and a lively 21 and up night scene for their shows. Bonus points for bringing along any history-loving friends to take in the scenery — or any Phish fans that might want to experience the stage that started it all .

More from Brave Little State: Why do people like Phish? A guide for the uninitiated

The term Northeast Kingdom was first popularized by former Vermont Gov. George Aiken to describe three counties — Orleans, Essex and Caledonia — situated in Vermont’s northeast corner.

Canada borders the Northeast Kingdom, or NEK, to the north, and New Hampshire lies to the east, just across the Connecticut River. The Northeast Kingdom is one of the most rural areas in the state, which means its natural beauty — clear rivers and streams, mountains and bucolic farmland — is plentiful.

Small towns dot the region, and each one has something special to offer. Whether you’re looking to surround yourself with nature, seek out unique treasure troves or explore historic buildings, we’ve got a variety of day trip ideas that highlight the best — and most unique — aspects of Vermont’s Northeast Kingdom.

More from Brave Little State: Is The Northeast Kingdom Really So 'Different'?

What to do if you're a...

Take a dip in a crystal clear lake.

Lake Willoughby is the it-girl of the Northeast Kingdom, and for good reason. It is one of the deepest lakes in the Northeast and the deepest lake in Vermont. It’s flanked on both sides by mountains, making the fjord-like views from either end spectacularly picturesque. (Don’t forget your camera.) Thousands of years ago, a glacier carved out the deep gorge that would become Lake Willoughby. The lake is mainly spring-fed, which means its waters stay cool and clear, even in the summer months.

Willoughby State Forest surrounds the south end of the lake and offers hiking trails, primitive camping areas, boat launches and spots for swimming and fishing . There is also one clothing-optional beach — the southwest cove. A popular hike takes the Mount Pisgah trail (starting at either the north or south ends) to the summit for a panoramic view of the 1,653-acre lake and surrounding mountains.

Take in the views from the region’s tallest peak

In the winter months, Jay Peak is well-known to many skiers in the Northeast, but it also has a lot to offer in the summer and fall. As the highest peak in the NEK, it offers gorgeous views and plenty of opportunities to enjoy nature.

Hikers can hop on Vermont’s famous Long Trail for a trek to the summit — and gorgeous views of the NEK. Park at the parking area on Route 242 and follow the Long Trail North to the summit. This more than 3-mile out-and-back hike does include over 1,500 feet of elevation gain and is rocky toward the summit, so make sure you’re prepared with hiking gear, water and snacks.

If you aren’t up for the hike, Jay Peak Resort operates an aerial tram throughout summer and the first part of fall. A $25 adult ticket — or a family 4-pack for $75 — buys you a tram ride to the top of Jay Peak and back down, letting you take in views of the resort and surrounding mountains for the entire journey.

Pedal your way through the scenery

If you enjoy taking in scenery on two wheels, you’re in luck. There are a number of options for bikers in the Northeast Kingdom, no matter the type of biking you prefer or your skill level. Kingdom Trails offers a large variety of mountain bike and pedestrian trails around East Burke for all skill levels. Check out their map to find a route that’s right for you. Another great option is the Lamoille Valley Rail Trail. The entirety of the mostly flat, 93-mile route stretches across the top half of the state. The eastern side of the trail winds through Northeast Kingdom towns like St. Johnsbury, Danville and Hardwick. There are parking areas and trailheads in each of those communities. Check out the Vermont rail trail website for more information and trailhead locations. Planning a visit in the winter? Consider trying out a fat bike , a type of mountain bike that has large wheels for a smooth ride in the snow.

For more on biking in the NEK, including where to find rentals, visit northeastkingdom.com/biking .

Stop through Newport and have lunch and ice cream by a gorgeous lake

Newport is situated on the South end of Lake Memphremagog, which stretches up into Quebec. The city’s boat dock features expansive views of the lake and the mountains that border it. There are picnic tables near the dock, making it a perfect spot to bring lunch or snack. Head downtown to sit down for a meal at Dusit Thai and walk into Newport Natural Market and Cafe to browse the shelves for local Vermont goodies. Afterwards, grab a creemee at Tim and Dougs, the ice cream outpost of the Pick and Shovel — a hardware store that’s full of surprises. The bustling shop has everything from gardening tools to maple sugaring equipment to clothing and shoes, as well as a pet section with live fish, reptiles and hamsters.

Take a scenic drive

Vermont has ten federally designated byways , including a route that runs through the center of the Northeast Kingdom. If you’re driving the upper portion of the scenic Northeast Kingdom Byway , add Shattuck Hill Road to your route between Newport and Derby for views that won’t disappoint.

Shattuck Hill in Derby is beloved by locals for its beautiful view of Lake Memphremagog, which straddles the border between Canada and some of the Northeast Kingdom’s northernmost communities. The Shattuck Hill lookout has been a local hotspot for years, but it’s about to become more accessible. Derby residents Doug and Vivian Spates spearheaded a campaign to help the town purchase the land and create a parking area for sightseers. The scenic pull-off, walkway and picnic area should be completed around September 2024.

Take your best friend to a doggy wonderland

Pack up your pup and head to Dog Mountain in St. Johnsbury for an experience neither of you will forget. Dog Mountain is a 150-acre swath of private land owned by the late artist Stephen Huneck and his wife . Now maintained by a nonprofit, the land is open to visitors and functions as a space for dogs and their owners to enjoy together. Leashes are optional, and there are plenty of trails and ponds for you and your dog to explore. Don’t miss the Dog Chapel, where the walls are covered with visitors’ photos and dedications to their beloved pets. You may want to bring tissues.

After Dog Mountain, you and your pup can head to Milkhouse Ice Cream for a maple creemee, or grab food at a restaurant with a dog-friendly outdoor area, such as Papa Tirozzi’s Bakery & Pizza.

Visit a library that straddles borders

Derby Line, Vermont, and Stanstead, Quebec, are neighbors divided. If you’re in Derby Line, you can’t cross into Stanstead without first showing your passport at the official Canadian border crossing — that is, unless you’re inside the Haskell Free Library and Opera House . The library was built at the beginning of the 20th century by Martha Haskell, who insisted it be a free resource for patrons on both sides of the border. It has a selection of books and other resources in both English and French. The building is on the National Register of Historic Places, and inside, it’s decorated with ornate woodwork and stained glass windows. A line stretches across a section of the wood floor, depicting the international border on which it sits.

The building also includes a historic opera house. The theater is painted in shades of green and pink — a request by Haskell herself — and includes carvings around the proscenium arch and the balcony. An original painted drop curtain depicting Venice, Italy, has been kept intact. Performances, screenings and shows are still held there today .

Stop through a covered bridge haven

Covered bridges are one of the most enduring symbols of rural Vermont, and no town has more of these unique structures than Montgomery. If you’re headed east toward Orleans County, plan a stop through Montgomery. Though it’s technically not in the NEK proper, its mountainous geography is a marked change from the more agricultural feel of northwest Vermont.

Located near Jay Peak, Montgomery is a quaint town with historic charm . Six (6!) covered bridges, all of them constructed toward the end of the 1800s, help residents and visitors cross the babbling brooks that run through the town. The Montgomery Historical Society boasts that it has the most covered bridges of any town in the United States. A fun fact for sports fans: Montgomery is also home to Olympian and U.S. track and field record-holder Elle Purrier St. Pierre .

Visit a marvel on Vermont’s African American Heritage Trail

Alexander Twilight, who was born, raised and educated in Vermont, was the first African American to serve in the state’s Legislature — also a first for any state legislature in the United States. Around the mid-1800s, he began plans to construct a large granite house in Brownington. Now known as the Old Stone House & Historic Village , it sets out to tell the history of northern Vermont and Twilight himself . In addition to a tour of the home and nearby barns, you can also walk around the surrounding historic district. To go inside the historic buildings, book a tour ahead of time or upon arrival ($10 plus a small fee for adults).

More from Vermont Public: ‘These Conversations Are Important:' Telling The Full History Of Black Vermonters In Our State

Visit the home base of an iconic performance troupe

If you’re at all familiar with Vermont, it’s likely you’ve heard of the Bread and Puppet Theater . Founded in 1963 by the artist Peter Schumann , Bread and Puppet is known for its larger-than-life papier-mâché puppets and theatrical performances and pageants, which are often rooted in political themes. Stop by the Bread and Puppet compound in Glover to peruse dozens of puppets, paintings and set pieces on display at the self-guided museum. They also have screenprints, books, chapbooks and more for sale in the museum shop. The museum is open daily, or you can check out their show schedule and try to make it to a performance.

Have a pizza at a beloved restaurant in the back of an old general store

The Parker Pie Company , located behind the Lake Parker General Store in Glover, serves up New York-style pizza and offers a selection of local beers on tap. Don’t miss the Green Mountain Special, a pie with bacon, apples, spinach and cheddar cheese, drizzled with local maple syrup.

Walk through a quirky museum that instills a bit of magic into the mundane

Old toothbrushes. Mirrors. Dust — including a sample of cosmic dust from NASA. All kinds of lists. A pink toilet. These are some of the items that you’ll find inside the permanent exhibit at the Museum of Everyday Life . Located off a highway in Glover, not far from the Bread and Puppet Theater, the Museum of Everyday Life is a fascinating collection of items, ranging from the mundane to the unusual and unforgettable. Start with the current exhibit, which, as of summer 2024, is dedicated to the wheel in all its forms. Then, head over to the permanent collection housed inside an old wooden barn. It’s open every day from 8 a.m. to 8 p.m. and is self-guided — so remember to turn off the lights when you leave.

Family trip planner

Visit a stunning natural history museum and planetarium.

If you’re traveling to the Northeast Kingdom with kids, you can’t miss the Fairbanks Museum and Planetarium in St. Johnsbury . Its large collection and variety of exhibits include taxidermy (kids will love the polar bear), a summer butterfly house and interactive science stations. The planetarium (recommended for kids ages 7 and up) features astronomy presentations and other films and events . Museum admission is $17 for adults and $15 for kids ages 5-17. Planetarium admission is $8.

Have a glass at one of Vermont’s most awarded breweries

If you love good beer, then you can’t do a day trip to the Northeast Kingdom without having a glass at Hill Farmstead Brewery . Hill Farmstead was named Best Brewery in the World by RateBeer for several years in a row. You can try their local, seasonal brews at their taproom in Greensboro Bend. If you’re not sure what to try first, ask for the “Edward,” a crowd-pleasing American pale ale.

Visit a BIPOC-owned brewery in St. Johnsbury

Whirligig Brewing and Bistro is located on a main thoroughfare in downtown St. Johnsbury. Their taproom offers a selection of the brewery’s beers and other libations, along with a seasonal food menu including sandwiches and rice bowls.

Try local brews in Newport

Another popular NEK brewery is Kingdom Brewing , which serves its beers made with locally sourced ingredients out of its BrewCabin. If you like live music, check out their events calendar to see when they’ll be hosting local acts.

Check the beer list for a unique brew fermented in a cheese cave

Wunderkammer Bier is brewed in an old cheese cave in Albany with an emphasis on local, seasonal ingredients, making it a truly unique drinking experience. The brew cave is not open for visits, but you can find Wunderkammer products at several restaurants and businesses in the Northeast Kingdom.

Sample other beers from the Northeast Kingdom

If you want to try a selection of local and regional beers, head to Kingdom Taproom in St. Johnsbury. If you’re hungry, grab some of their specialty tacos and wash it down with one of their rotating cast of local draft beers.

Have questions, comments or tips?  Send us a message .

Stand up for civility

This news story is funded in large part by Connecticut Public’s Members — listeners, viewers, and readers like you who value fact-based journalism and trustworthy information.

We hope their support inspires you to donate so that we can continue telling stories that inform, educate, and inspire you and your neighbors. As a community-supported public media service, Connecticut Public has relied on donor support for more than 50 years.

Your donation today will allow us to continue this work on your behalf. Give today at any amount and join the 50,000 members who are building a better—and more civil—Connecticut to live, work, and play.