travel vermont summer

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.

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17 Fun Ways to Experience Summer in Vermont

Posted on Last updated: October 6, 2023

Home » Vermont » 17 Fun Ways to Experience Summer in Vermont

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If you’re looking for a warm getaway in the northeast, you absolutely can’t miss out on summer in Vermont. This small state is often overlooked compared to Maine and Massachusetts, but it truly does pack a punch.

Vermont in summer is incredible, and this post is going to introduce you to all the best things to do and places to visit during the warm season. 

Whether you’re the type of person who loves outdoor adventures or you’d rather learn at museums, you’ll soon find that the state of Vermont has it all.

Most people will opt to visit Vermont in the winter , too, because of its ski season, so you’ll be able to visit with fewer tourists in the summer. 

From charming small towns with local shops to sprawling cities next to gorgeous lakes and a variety of events, Vermont is a summer destination worth visiting.

Table of Contents

Things to Do in Summer in Vermont

Here are our favorite things to do in Vermont in the summer. Enjoy!

Shop Local at the Vermont Farmers Market

One of the main slogans in Vermont is to “shop small.” So, do just that by attending one of the biggest markets in the whole state: the Vermont Farmers Market!

Located in Rutland, this market is filled with more than 50 different vendors that you can shop from.

Once inside, you’ll be able to explore tons of tables featuring everything from local cheeses to maple syrups. 

Be sure to try some of the maple syrup plain, too; you’d be surprised to taste the difference between a dark and light syrup.

Stay in a Secluded Cabin

Why not enjoy the natural beauty that Vermont is so well known for by staying in a cabin? 

This cozy chalet near Okemo Mountain and Lake Pauline is perfect for just that. It sleeps about six people at a time and is quite large at 1400 square feet.

Visitors can enjoy a huge outdoor deck with seating, privacy in a forest, and huge ceilings. A short drive will bring visitors to the Fox Run Golf Course, Jackson Gore Adventure Resort, and more. Plus, Killington Mountain is right nearby too!

Read next: Cozy Cabins in Vermont

Attend the Vermont Antique and Classic Car Meet

One thing to know about Vermont and its locals: they love their antiques and history. Join in on the fun by attending the one and only Vermont Antique and Classic Car Meet! 

The event takes place every June, usually for just a weekend. It happens right in Manchester, one of the best places to visit during summer in Vermont. 

During the event, guests can eat great food, mingle with locals, and of course, walk around and check out antique cars. Be sure to talk with the owners to learn more about each car you see!

Hit the Beach

While Vermont technically doesn’t have what you may think of as a beach, there are so many local lakes worth stopping at to cool off. 

Many people don’t know this, but it can get scorching and humid during summer in Vermont!

Some of the top lakes with beaches to visit in the state include Emerald Lake State Park, Lake Shaftsbury (near Bennington), Boulder Beach State Park, and Lake Iroquois. 

Truthfully though, no matter where you are in the state, you can find a spot to swim nearby, even if it’s just a local swimming hole.

Go Biking at the Kingdom Trails

The Kingdom Trails in northern Vermont absolutely can’t be missed if you love to get outdoors when traveling to places. 

They’re a series of trails that are open for mountain biking. In fact, there are just shy of 90 miles of trails open for you to check out!

The best time of year to use the trails is in the summer, and luckily a lot of them are well shaded with trees.

There’s a variety of trails, from easy ones to those that are more difficult for skilled bikers. Be sure to pack a lunch in a backpack to have along the way.

Read next: Weekend Getaways in Vermont

Hike in the Green Mountain National Forest

Hiking is one of the best things to do during a Vermont summer getaway. So, head to the Green Mountain National Forest, which covers a lot of the state, and go on an epic hike with even more breathtaking mountain views.

One of the best moderate trails is the Lye Brook Falls Trail, which is about 4.5 miles long and only takes 2.5 hours or so to complete. 

For something a bit more complicated, try the Equinox Mountain and Lookout Rock trail, at 6.3 miles, which takes closer to 5 hours to finish.

Have a Drink at the Vermont Brewers Festival

A classic Vermont festival is the Vermont Brewers Festival! When visiting Vermont in summer, you absolutely can’t miss out on the fun festivities. It’s located right on Lake Champlain so that you can have good drinks with a view.

The event takes place in Burlington, usually in July. You do have to purchase a ticket ahead of time, so be sure to do that as soon as you know you’d like to attend. During the event, you can try some incredible drinks from local breweries .

Read next: Best Vermont Breweries

Cruise on Lake Champlain

Lake Champlain is easily one of the best spots to see when visiting Vermont in summer. This breathtaking lake is stunning, and the top thing to do when visiting the lake is to book a cruise.

Book a wonderful scenic cruise through the Spirit of Ethan Allen , which is a local favorite. They have tours daily for affordable prices when they’re in season (usually around $40 to $60). 

This cruise line offers various cruise types, including sunset cruises, champagne on Champlain brunch cruises, and of course, lunch and dinner cruises.

Eat Ice Cream at Ben & Jerry’s

If you happen to spend summer in Vermont and you don’t stop at the Ben & Jerry’s Factory, then you did something wrong! Located in Waterbury, this is an absolute must-visit for any ice cream fanatic.

Tours of the factory are free to all visitors, and you’ll be brought behind the scenes to see how the ice cream is made. 

In the end, you get a free tester of whatever flavor they’re making that day. After, don’t forget to stop by the Flavor Graveyard to see all the retired ice cream flavors!

Visit Shelburne Farms

Shelburne Farms in Shelburne, Vermont, is a perfect place to visit when spending summer in the state. This nonprofit education organization focuses on educating others about sustainability, agriculture, and more.

Kids will particularly love visiting, as they can attend hands-on events, like butter-making. 

There are also walking trails that the public can visit at the farms and lookout points, a farm store, a restaurant, and even an inn where you can spend the night if you’ll be staying in the general area.

Attend the Stoweflake Hot Air Balloon Festival

The Stoweflake Hot Air Baloon Festival takes place in Stowe every early July. During this event, everyone in the town gathers early in the morning to see many people take off in their hot air balloons.

It’s a huge festival, and the colors in the sky are incredible. There are usually around 25 to 30 different balloons any given year.

Sometimes, locals will even bring food trucks or set up tents so you can grab a bite to eat while you watch the balloons go up.

Are you not a morning person? Don’t worry; there’s usually another balloon launch in the evening too. The twilight launch is specifically beautiful because the sky colors are just as wild as the colors on the balloons!

Have Fun at Music in the Meadow Concert

Another of the best things to do during summer in Vermont is to attend the Music in the Meadow Concert.

This event takes place on multiple Sundays throughout the summer, usually starting in July, and is seen more as a “music series.”

Most artists are local, and the event takes place in the evenings. You can chill out, relax, grab a bite to eat, and enjoy the excellent music. 

In the past, this event has taken place at the Trapp Family Lodge and has been put on by the Stowe Performing Arts Center.

Once the lineup is officially announced, a calendar of events can usually be found online on the Stowe Performing Arts website . To be honest, they typically don’t have a single bad band in their lineup!

Places to Visit in Vermont in Summer

Here are some places to visit in Vermont that you can’t miss in the summer!

Even though it’s not the state’s capital, Burlington is Vermont’s main city. In fact, it’s technically the only large city in the state, even though it has less than 50,000 residents!

As the largest city, there are tons to do there for a Vermont summer getaway.

First of all, be sure to do some shopping on Church Street, the main pedestrian-only shopping center in the city. 

Shop both local and larger retail stores and find almost everything you could possibly need. 

Other fun places to visit include the Fleming Museum of Art (perfect if it’s raining) or the Island Line Rail Trail, where you can go for bike rides or a jog from Waterfront Park following the Colchester Causeway to the middle of the lake.

Looking for accommodation? Then check out our guide to where to stay in Burlington, VT , which covers a range of hotels and apartments.

Located in the southern part of the state on the border of Massachusetts and New York, Bennington is one of the most underrated places to visit during summer in Vermont. 

This small town is packed with rich history and outdoor activities also for active families.

During the summer season, locals and avid hikers will take a trek up Bald Mountain to the summit. This is a great day hike that’s best for experienced hikers. 

Of course, if you’d rather stay in town, you can grab an ice cream at local’s favorite Tastee Freez, shop on Main Street, or have fun and get outdoors at Willow Park.

Montpelier is Vermont’s capital city and is said to be one of the most beautiful places to visit in the northeast , especially in summer. Despite its city status, it feels more like a small town, which is part of its charm.

The city definitely comes alive in the summer. Spend some time exploring the beauty of Hubbard Park, marvel at the gold dome on top of the Vermont State House, and step back in time at the Vermont Historical Society Museum. 

The city also hosts many local events throughout the summer, like farmer’s markets, on the weekends.

Manchester is a popular destination in Vermont, even for locals! This town is located a bit more central and is absolutely beautiful in summer. 

The best summer activity to get outdoors when visiting Manchester is to take a day trip to Emerald Lake State Park, one of the best Vermont state parks that are filled with campsites, hiking trails, and of course, a lake.

This town is known for its arts too, which you can further explore at the Southern Vermont Arts Center. 

Other popular attractions include hiking Equinox Mountain, shopping at the outlets, and learning at the American Museum of Fly Fishing. Don’t forget to stop by Zoey’s Deli for an excellent sandwich!

Not to be confused with Woodstock in New York, but Vermont’s own Woodstock is an incredibly picturesque town surrounded by mountains. It only looks prettier in the summer under a blue sky, which is why it’s perfect for a warm holiday!

The absolute can’t-miss place in Woodstock is the Billings Farm & Museum, which is top-rated among families visiting the area. 

There’s also the Marsh-Billings-Rockefeller National Historical Park, Sugarbush Farm (where you can learn about maple syrup production!), and Coolidge State Park.

Don’t forget to make a pit stop at the Taftssville Covered Bridge, either. Vermont is well-known for its covered bridges, and all are worth visiting. Many locals will go on a covered bridge road trip at least once while living in the state!

Summer in Vermont is unlike any other. No matter what you choose to do or where you choose to visit, you’ll truly have a blast visiting this little state in the northeast. 

The locals are incredibly kind, the scenery is impeccable, and the maple ice cream is unmatched!

Did you enjoy reading about summer in Vermont? Then share it on your social media!

19 Fantastic Things to Do in Vermont in the Summer

By Author Tara Schatz

Posted on Published: May 11, 2023

Categories Destinations , New England USA , United States , Vermont

After five months of snow and frigid temps, Vermonters welcome summer as if they’ve never experienced it before.

Windows are thrown open, gardens are meticulously tended, and families head outside to soak up copious amounts of Vitamin D while the summer sun heats up the Green Mountains.

If you’ve never experienced a summer sunset over Lake Champlain or raced to eat a maple creemee before it melted onto the pavement, this is your year.

Whether you’ve got a few days or a few weeks, here are the best things to do in Vermont in the summer.

Pack your swimsuit, bug spray, and hiking shoes, and head to Vermont for a memorable outdoor summer.

Swim, Paddle, or Fish in One of Vermont’s Beautiful Lakes

Vermont may be a landlocked state, but its beautiful and varied lakes make up for its lack of ocean shores.

If you are thinking about a lake vacation this year, don’t overlook Vermont, where you can paddle to remote campsites, rent a gorgeous waterfront cabin, or plan an urban vacation in Burlington on the shores of Lake Champlain.

Here are a few of our lakes in Vermont for your next getaway, from the popular to the obscure:

Lake Champlain: America’s Sixth Great Lake

Lake Champlain is a glittering gem of a lake that delineates the border between Vermont and New York. This massive Vermont Lake is 107 miles long and 14 miles wide at its widest point. The Adirondack Mountains rise up from Lake Champlain’s western shore, making for dramatic sunsets from the Vermont side.

There are numerous spots on Lake Champlain that are perfect for a  Vermont lake vacation .

Where you decide to set up your home base will depend on what you want to do while you’re here. There are quiet coves for paddling, islands that you can camp and hike on, open water for sailing, and even an ancient fossil reef (the oldest reef system in the world).

Lake Willoughby: Vermont’s Deepest Lake

From Vermont’s largest lake to its deepest, Lake Willoughby was carved by glaciers thousands of years ago. Two steep mountains, Mount Hor and Mount Pisgah, rise up on either side of it, giving Lake Willoughby the appearance of a Norwegian fjord.

There are two public beaches at the northern and southern tips of the lake, and you can hike up either Mount Hor or Mount Pisgah on either side for incredible views of the lake and the surrounding landscape.

Lake Bomoseen: The Largest Lake Entirely Within Vermont

The large, shallow Lake Bomoseen has a surface area of roughly 2,4000 acres in the towns of Castleton and Hubbardton. Lake Bomosoeen is surrounded by forested foothills that eventually turn into the northern Taconic Mountains.

There are several public beaches on Lake Bomoseen, as well as marinas and boat launches where you can buy bait, launch a watercraft, or rent a kayak. Bald eagles and osprey are common on the lake and we hear the fishing is great too!

Camping is available at  Bomoseen State Park  or at the more secluded  Half Moon Pond State Park . There are sandy beaches in both parks, as well as kayak and canoe rentals.

Take a Hike

Three things make Vermont the best place on earth — maple syrup, fantastic fall colors, and the beautiful forested landscape. 78% of Vermont is forested, and while only 19% of that land is public, there are enough beautiful hiking trails to keep outdoor lovers busy for a lifetime.

I’ve been hiking in Vermont for my entire adult life, and I recently co-authored the third edition of  AMC’s Best Day Hikes in Vermont,  which was released in May 2023. Detailed trail guides and maps for all of the hikes listed here can be found in the book.

I’ve got tons of recommendations for great Vermont hikes over at Vermont Explored , but here are my 13 favorite hikes throughout the state.

Listen to Live Music Outdoors

View this post on Instagram A post shared by Green Mountain Bluegrass and Roots Festival (@greenmountainbluegrass)

Outdoor concerts during the summer are a huge draw in Vermont, whether you’re relaxing near the bandstand in a tiny town park or dancing under the full moon at one of Vermont’s annual music festivals.

If you don’t mind driving, there’s a good chance that you can find fantastic outdoor music every day of the week in the summer.

Here are a few of the more iconic summer music festivals in Vermont :

June 7-11, 2023 : Burlington Jazz Festival in Burlington, VT: This year marks the 40th anniversary of the Burlington Discover Jazz Festival, a five-day festival celebrating a stellar lineup of celebrated jazz musicians from around the world. This year’s festival is presented by New England Federal Credit Union and produced by the Flynn.

June 22-25, 2023: Jenny Brook Bluegrass Festival in Tunbridge, VT: The 22nd annual Jenny Brook Bluegrass Festival features four days of live music, workshops for kids and adults, and a barn dance.

July 7-9, 2023: Dead of Summer in Manchester, VT : Two days of Grateful-Dead-inspired music and camping on 35 beautiful acres.

August 18-20, 2023 : Green Mountain Bluegrass and Roots Festival in Manchester, VT : This year’s weekend-long Green Mountain Bluegrass and Roots Festival features a stellar line-up of acclaimed musicians in a gorgeous setting among the mountains of southern Vermont.

How to Find Live Music in Vermont

In addition to the annual events mentioned above, there are hundreds more fantastic live music events throughout the summer in Vermont. Check out Vermont Vacation’s event calendar and the Vermont Art Council to find even more live music throughout the state.

Indulge in a Vermont Creemee or Ice Cream

In Vermont, we call soft-serve ice cream “creemees,” and maple creemees are a summer staple for both locals and visitors. They’re also ahmaaazingggg, so be sure to brake for one when you’re passing through.

Eric and I are actually on the hunt for the best maple creemees in Vermont, so you’d be doing us a favor if you share your secret creemee spots.

You can find creemees all over Vermont, but if you’re unsure of where to go, try  Canteen Creemeee  in Waitsfield,  Vermont Cookie Love  in North Ferrisburgh, or the  Sugar Shack  in Arlington.

For another ice cream treat, head to Ben & Jerry’s in Waterbury . Ben & Jerry started serving ice cream from a renovated gas station in Burlington back in 1978. Their first factory was opened in Waterbury in 1985 and continues to make approximately 350,000 pints per day.

Tour the factory, indulge in your favorite flavors, and visit the flavor graveyard. Advanced online ticket purchases are highly encouraged.

Drive to the Top of a Vermont Mountain

We love a good hike to a mountain vista, but sometimes it’s fun to pack a picnic and discover a sweet Vermont view without even breaking a sweat.

There are several mountain peaks in Vermont with auto roads — perfect for a summer afternoon (before or after your maple creemee stop).

Put one or all of these Vermont drives on your summer bucket list:

Mount Equinox Skyline Drive in Manchester, VT: This is the longest privately owned, paved toll road in the United States. Mount Equinox Skyline Drive ascends 3,248 feet over 5.2 miles to the top of Mount Equinox. The road is open Memorial Day Weekend to October 31st, 9 am to 5 pm daily. Car and driver, $25. Additional passengers, $5.

Mount Ascutney Parkway : Mount Ascutney is unique as far as Vermont mountains go. It’s a monadnock — an isolated mountain of erosion-resistant rock, in this case, granite. It’s a conspicuous mountain, towering 3,144 feet above the Connecticut River Valley below. Mount Ascutney Parkway is a 3.7-mile road that was built by hand and machine by the Civilian Conservation Corps from 1933 to 1937. The park is open from May 22 to October 16. $5 for adults, $2 for kids.

Mount Mansfield Auto Toll Road : There are several ways to hike to the top of Mount Mansfield, but only one way to drive to the top. The historic Auto Toll Road is maintained by Stowe Mountain Resort and is 4.5 miles. It’s not suitable for RVs, trailers, or motorcycles. The toll road is open from May 27 to October 15. $32 for car and driver. $12 for each additional passenger.

Mount Philo Summit Access Road: Mount Philo State Park was Vermont’s first state park, created in 1924. This small mountain peak provides beautiful views of the Lake Champlain Valley, not to mention primo picnic spots and fantastic sunsets. It’s open from Memorial Day weekend to October 31. $5 for adults, $2 for kids.

Meet Friendly Farm Animals at Local Farms

Vermont farms are fun to explore any time of year, but in the summer, farms and barnyards are bustling with activity and events. There are dozens of farms throughout the state that welcome visitors.

Here are a few of our favorite spots to converse with cows, play with pigs, and love on horses, chickens, and sheep.

Merck Forest & Farmland Center in Rupert, Vermon t: Pigs, sheep, chickens, and horses on a 60-acre farm surrounded by forest. 

Billings Farm and Museum in Woodstock, Vermon t: 0 Jersey cows, five draft horses, and a flock of Southdown sheep, not to mention oxen, pigs, and chickens, make Billings Farm & Museum an awesome place to immerse yourself in farm life. 

Shelburne Farms in Shelburne, Vermont : The children’s farmyard is a place of learning and fun for all ages. Watch the chicken parade, milk a cow, and visit with the goats, sheep, pigs, rabbits, and miniature Sicilian donkeys.

Shop the Famous Church Street Marketplace in Burlington

When visiting Vermont’s biggest city, you will undoubtedly find yourself strolling along the  Church Street Marketplace , a pedestrian-only shopping and dining mall encompassing four blocks between Main and Pearl Streets.

Church Street is a hub of activity in Burlington, where you’ll find both street food and fine dining, local crafters, and high-end boutiques. Church Street is a great spot to grab a coffee and do some people-watching, catch live music on the street, or dine al-fresco at one of the many eateries.

Meandering along Church Streets is one of the best things to do in Vermont in the summer. If you want to explore more of Burlington, check out this itinerary for 3 days in Vermont , which covers Burlington and Stowe.

Go Mountain Biking in the Green Mountains

According to the Vermont Mountain Bike Association, there are more than 1,000 miles of maintained mountain biking trails in Vermont. If careening down a mountain at full speed sounds thrilling, check out lift-serviced mountain biking trails at Mount Snow, Sugarbush, Stratton Mountain, or Killington Resort.

Not sure where to go mountain biking in Vermont? Kingdom Trails in Vermont’s Northeast Kingdom has been called one of the best mountain bike trail networks in North America.

With more than 100 miles of single and double-track trails, you could spend weeks exploring this area on two wheels. The trail system navigates a beautiful pastoral landscape through working farms, backyards, and rugged mountainsides.

If you already have a Vermont destination in mind, you can easily search for trails on the Vermont Mountain Bike Association’s website . Filter your search by region, type of trails, and level of expertise to find the perfect trail system for you!

Cycle, Jog, or Walk the Island Line Trail

If you’re looking for a way to get outside and enjoy the fabulous Vermont weather and spectacular mountain views, look no further than the Island Line Trail. This spectacular multi-use trail follows Burlington’s waterfront via the Burlington Greenway and heads out on the beautiful Colchester Causeway three miles into the middle of Lake Champlain.

Public beaches, natural areas, and scenic vistas surround you as you cycle, jog, or meander along the path. Take Local Motion’s  Island Line Bike Ferry  to cross  “the Cut,” a 200-foot gap in the causeway, and then continue onto the Lake Champlain Islands.

This is one of the best things to do in Vermont in the summer, especially if you’re spending time in and around Burlington .

Visit One of Vermont’s Many Historic Sites

The state of Vermont maintains more than a dozen state historic sites that encourage the discovery and appreciation of Vermont’s rich cultural heritage through stewardship and interpretation. These wonderful assets commemorate historic battles, Vermont presidents, and important events throughout the state.

Every single one of the Vermont State Historic Sites is worth visiting, but I’d be lying if I said I didn’t have favorites.

Visiting Bennington, Vermont ? The tallest man-made building in Vermont commemorates the Battle of Bennington, a pivotal victory for American forces on the New England front of the American Revolution.

Take an elevator to the top of the Bennington Battle Monument for fantastic views of the Taconic and Green Mountains, and have a picnic on the sprawling lawn before taking a self-guided walking tour of Old Bennington .

The 30th president of the United States was born in the tiny hamlet of Plymouth Notch, Vermont. The President Calvin Coolidge State Historic Site tells the story of Coolidge’s life and family in a historic village that appears much as it did in the early 1900s. Visit an 1840 church where he worshipped with his family, the 1890 school house where he attended school, and the house where he was sworn into the office of President in 1923.

Check out an Outdoor Sculpture Park

What could be better than getting outside and enjoying a perfect summer day in Vermont? How about getting outside while discovering art?

For a tiny state, Vermont has an eclectic variety of opportunities to interact with outdoor art.

The largely rural landscape makes an enchanting backdrop for all kinds of art installations, and as the seasons change, so does the experience.

A stroll through the  Path of Life Sculpture Garden  is a journey. Visitors travel through life, from birth to death and beyond, while interacting with 18 works of art on 14 beautiful acres along the Connecticut River in Windsor.

Set against the beautiful Taconic Mountains in Manchester, the outdoor sculpture park at  Southern Vermont Arts Center (SVAC)  is an expansive exhibition in fields and forests on a sprawling 120-acre campus.

For even more ideas, read about our favorite outdoor sculpture parks throughout Vermont.

Visit the Exhibits at Shelburne Museum

Explore more of Vermont as well as the rest of the world at the  Shelburne Museum  in Shelburne, Vermont. This is the largest art and history museum in northern New England and one of the top things to do in Vermont in the summer.

The Museum’s 45-acre campus includes a Shaker design round barn, a general store, a carousel, and the 220-foot sidewheel steamboat Ticonderoga.

Meander through acres of beautiful gardens outdoors and check out the Webb Gallery, which features important American paintings by Andrew Wyeth, Winslow Homer, Grandma Moses, John Singleton Copley, and more.

Ride Vermont’s Longest Rail Trail

Experience 93 miles of car-free riding through one of Vermont’s most scenic regions. The Lamoille Valley Rail Trail is New England’s longest rail trail, traveling from Swanton on the shores of Lake Champlain, all the way to St. Johnsbury in the Northeast Kingdom.

One of the best ways to explore the Lamoille Valley Rail Trail is with an E-bike tour or rental from Lamoille Valley Bike Tours . The self-guided Summer Adventure Tours are designed to be flexible and give you plenty of time to explore the best parts of the trail at your own pace. 

A full-day tour allows guests to spend the day traveling this scenic trail on one of our comfortable electric bikes and enjoy shopping, dining, brewery hopping, swimming, fishing, and more.  

Tour Vermont Covered Bridges

Red barns and bridges are as ubiquitous to Vermont as black and white cows. They add a touch of nostalgia and romance to the woodland and pastoral scenes of the Green Mountains and are perfect for adding a bit of scenic history to your Vermont vacation.

There are more than 100 covered bridges in Vermont. These beautiful feats of engineering offer a one-of-a-kind look into a bygone age — a time when ingenious craftsmanship was used to create structures that embodied simple beauty and embraced the natural landscape. 

Here’s a map of covered bridges in Vermont so you can add one to your summer itinerary.

Drive One of Vermont’s Scenic Byways

Fill up your gas tank, charge your camera, and pack your sturdy footwear – it’s time for another incredible Vermont road trip. There are 10 gorgeous scenic byways in Vermont , and all of them are perfect for summer adventuring, whether you’ve got an afternoon or a couple of days to explore.

Travel s cenic Route 100 through the Green Mountains, meander along the Connecticut River Byway, or travel along beautiful Lake Champlain on historic Route 7 . No matter where you want to go in Vermont, there’s a scenic byway with your name on it!

Relax Near a Vermont Swimming Hole

After five months of winter weather, there’s nothing quite as refreshing as a Vermont swimming hole on a hot summer day.

Swimming holes in Vermont are part of what makes summer so awesome here, and when traveling Vermont’s back roads in the summer, it’s important to keep an emergency beach bag with you.

Many swimming holes in Vermont are only known to locals, while others are iconic and very popular. The tell-tale sign of a good swimming hole will be a line of cars parked on the shoulder of a back road that runs alongside a river.

Favorites include Bingham Falls in Stowe, which features one of Vermont’s most beautiful waterfalls and one of the coldest spots to take a plunge.

For a more family-friendly adventure, head to Johnson and enjoy a relaxing afternoon at Beard Recreation Park on the Gihon River. The swimming area is wide, deep, and easy to get into, and there’s a small sandy beach and beautiful waterfalls.

Need more ideas? Here are 10 of the best swimming holes in Vermont .

Explore the Green Mountain National Forest

Secret swimming holes, endless miles of hiking trails, and mind-boggling vistas await you in Vermont’s Green Mountains, not to mention secluded campsites, streams full of trout, and beautiful waterfalls.

The Green Mountain National Forest, located in southwestern and central Vermont, is the place to go when you want to paddle a quiet lake, photograph a waterfall, hike a trail, or simply commune with nature.

The southern section of the Green Mountain National Forest is located in Bennington, Windham, and Rutland counties. This region includes a section of the Appalachian Trail, the southernmost section of the Long Trail, two front-country campgrounds, and five designated Wilderness areas.

A stunning section of Vermont’s Long Trail travels through this section of the Green Mountain National Forest, including the incredible Monroe Skyline, which includes Mount Abraham and Mount Ellen, two of Vermont’s five peaks over 4,000 feet.

Here are some highlights of the Green Mountain National Forest that you won’t want to miss.

Take a Sunset Cruise on Lake Champlain

There’s nothing more magical than a Lake Champlain sunset at the end of a beautiful summer day in Vermont. The Spirit of Ethan Allen departs from the Burlington Waterfront for sunset cruises on Friday and Saturday evenings through the summer.

Sip a cocktail, order some snacks, and watch the sun sink behind the Adirondack Mountains. It’s the perfect way to end a day in Burlington. If you can’t make the sunset cruise, check out the lunch or narrated cruises which are offered more frequently during the week. 

For more information on cruising Lake Champlain, visit  The Spirit of Ethan Allen .

Learn How Maple Syrup is Made

Vermont’s 600+ sugarmakers produced 2.5 million gallons of maple syrup in 2022, leading the country in production.

What’s even more exciting is that many Vermont sugar shacks open their doors to the public so that the rest of us can learn how maple syrup goes from tree, to tap, to table each spring.

Morse Farm Maple Sugarworks , Vermont’s oldest sugarhouse, is an 8th-generation farm in Montpelier that loves visitors.

They offer free sugar house tours and tastings throughout the season, as well as multimedia displays, a nature trail, a country store, and an outdoor Vermont farm life museum.

Morse Farm is open daily year-round. Visitors can walk the “maple trail’ winding through the sugarbush and visit Rex and James, the Morse Farm goats.  Pieces of folk art and antique farm implements can be found throughout the property.

Looking for more ideas for the best things to do in Vermont in the summer? Check out our sister site, Vermont Explored , and follow us on social media for more outdoor inspiration.

Tara is a freelance writer and travel blogger with a passion for outdoor adventures. She is the co-author of AMC’s Best Day Hikes in Vermont and currently blogs at Back Road Ramblers and Vermont Explored , where she shares travel tips, adventure destinations, and vacation ideas for the wanderer in everyone.

ONEEARTHHOTELS

Tuesday 16th of May 2023

Beautiful photos of Vermont! Makes me want to plan a trip now. I will have to add this to my bucketlist. so we’re thinking now to go there after reading this post.

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

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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

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Summer in Vermont: Best places to visit

From mountains to lakes: exploring vermont’s best summer getaways.

Escape the hustle and bustle of everyday life and immerse yourself in the breathtaking beauty of Vermont’s summer getaways. From the majestic peaks of the Green Mountains to the tranquil shores of its picturesque lakes, this idyllic state offers a plethora of unforgettable experiences for nature lovers and adventure seekers alike. Whether you’re in search of thrilling outdoor activities or a peaceful retreat surrounded by stunning landscapes, Vermont has it all. Discover charming towns nestled in the valleys, where you can explore local shops, indulge in farm-to-table cuisine, and soak up the friendly small-town atmosphere. Embark on exhilarating hikes through lush forests, marvel at cascading waterfalls, or simply relax on the sandy beaches of Lake Champlain. With its abundance of outdoor adventures and natural wonders, Vermont is the perfect destination to create lasting memories and rejuvenate your mind, body, and soul. So pack your bags, leave your worries behind, and let Vermont’s summer getaways take you on a journey of breathtaking beauty and relaxation.

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Popular summer destinations in Vermont

Vermont boasts an array of popular summer destinations that cater to all types of travelers. One such destination is Stowe, a charming town situated at the base of Mount Mansfield, Vermont’s highest peak. Stowe offers a perfect blend of outdoor adventure and relaxation. Hike or bike along the extensive trail networks, take a scenic gondola ride to the summit, or simply unwind at one of the luxurious spa resorts. Another must-visit destination is Manchester, known for its picturesque landscapes and quaint village atmosphere. Explore the designer outlets, visit the renowned Hildene estate, or embark on a scenic drive through the stunning Green Mountains. Burlington, located on the shores of Lake Champlain, is a vibrant city that offers a bustling waterfront, a lively arts scene, and a variety of outdoor activities. From exploring the charming Church Street Marketplace to paddleboarding on the lake, Burlington has something for everyone.

No summer trip to Vermont would be complete without a trip to Ben & Jerry’s Waterbury factory. You can find your favorite ice cream flavor, taste something new and go on a tour of the factory.  They also have a fun playground for kids as well as an amusing flavor graveyard.

Exploring the Green Mountains

The Green Mountains, a prominent mountain range that stretches the length of Vermont, offer a paradise for outdoor enthusiasts. Lace up your hiking boots and embark on an adventure through lush forests, meandering streams, and alpine meadows. Mount Mansfield, the highest peak in Vermont, provides breathtaking panoramic views from its summit. For a more leisurely experience, take a scenic drive along the Green Mountain Byway, a designated National Scenic Byway that winds through charming towns and picturesque landscapes. During the summer months, the Green Mountains also offer an abundance of wildlife viewing opportunities. Keep an eye out for moose, deer, and a variety of bird species as you explore this natural wonder.

Enjoying the lakes and rivers of Vermont

Vermont’s pristine lakes and rivers are a playground for water enthusiasts. Lake Champlain, the sixth-largest freshwater lake in the United States, offers a wide range of activities, from swimming and fishing to boating and kayaking. Explore the lake’s numerous islands, such as the picturesque Grand Isle, or simply relax on one of its sandy beaches. The Connecticut River, which forms the border between Vermont and New Hampshire, is another popular destination for water recreation. Take a leisurely cruise along the river, go tubing or paddleboarding, or try your hand at fly fishing. For a more adventurous experience, head to the Mad River Valley and enjoy thrilling whitewater rafting or kayaking down the Mad River. With its crystal-clear waters and serene surroundings, Vermont’s lakes and rivers provide the perfect backdrop for a summer getaway.

Sunset on Lake Champlain, Vermont

Outdoor activities and adventures

Vermont offers a wide range of outdoor activities and adventures to suit all interests and skill levels. The state is a haven for hikers, with an extensive trail network that ranges from easy strolls to challenging hikes. Explore the Long Trail, a 273-mile footpath that traverses the entire length of Vermont, or tackle the challenging Camel’s Hump, one of the state’s most iconic peaks. Mountain biking enthusiasts will find plenty of thrilling trails to explore, including the Kingdom Trails in East Burke, which offer over 100 miles of scenic trails suitable for all abilities. For adrenaline junkies, Vermont also offers opportunities for rock climbing, zip-lining, and even skydiving. Embrace the spirit of adventure and discover the thrill of Vermont’s outdoor playground.

Cultural and historical attractions

In addition to its natural beauty, Vermont is also rich in cultural and historical attractions. Visit the Shelburne Museum , a unique museum that showcases American folk art, quilts, and 19th-century artifacts, or explore the Vermont State Historic Sites, which offer a glimpse into the state’s fascinating history. Discover the birthplace of President Calvin Coolidge in Plymouth Notch or visit the Bennington Battle Monument , commemorating the Revolutionary War battle fought in 1777. Vermont is also renowned for its thriving arts and crafts scene, with numerous art galleries and craft studios scattered throughout the state. Immerse yourself in the local culture and gain a deeper appreciation for Vermont’s heritage.

Festivals and events in Vermont during the summer

Vermont comes alive with vibrant festivals and events during the summer months. Celebrate the state’s agricultural heritage at the Vermont Dairy Festival in Enosburg Falls, where you can indulge in delicious dairy treats and enjoy live music and entertainment. The Vermont Brewers Festival in Burlington is a must-visit for beer enthusiasts, showcasing the best craft breweries in the state. Enjoy live music, food trucks, and a wide selection of Vermont’s finest brews. The Stoweflake Hot Air Balloon Festiva l in Stowe is a magical event that features colorful hot air balloons taking flight against the backdrop of the Green Mountains. From music and art festivals to agricultural fairs and outdoor concerts, Vermont offers an array of events that capture the spirit of summer.

Hot Air Balloon Festival in Vermont

Planning your Vermont summer getaway

When planning your Vermont summer getaway, it’s important to consider the weather and the specific activities and attractions you wish to experience. The summer months, especially July and August, are the peak tourist season, with warm temperatures and plenty of sunshine. It’s advisable to make accommodation reservations in advance, especially if you plan to visit popular destinations such as Stowe or Burlington. We can help you explore the different outdoor activities and attractions in the areas you wish to visit and create a detailed itinerary to make the most of your time in Vermont. Don’t forget to pack appropriate clothing and gear for your chosen activities, whether it’s hiking boots, swimwear, or a picnic blanket.

Give us a call today to help you plan your custom Vermont experience!

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Suzanne Poirier

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25 Top Things to Do in Vermont

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

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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

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New England Wanderlust

Vermont  ·  March 21, 2023

60 Incredible Things To Do In Vermont & Best Places To Visit (2024)

Even though Vermont is the second least populated state in the U.S., it’s packed with so many incredible, bucket list-worthy things to do. People vacation the Green Mountain State looking for picturesque countryside, cozy small towns and stunning mountain vistas, and I’m thrilled to tell you that’s exactly what you can expect when you visit!

Whether you’re visiting for the first time and are looking for the top things to do in Vermont, or you’re a seasoned Green Mountain State traveler and are looking to make sure you’ve seen it all, this is the best list you’ll find of all the amazing things Vermont has to offer. Of course, there’s so much more than 60 things to do, but this will give you a pretty epic start 🙂

Vermont was the very first getaway my husband and I took together when we first started dating. It’s also where we honeymooned, and we’ve been back countless times since. I’ve really done and seen so much in this gorgeous state, and I’m so excited to share all the best things to do with you.

So, are you ready? Let’s start planning your next trip together!

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Best Things To Do In Vermont

In no particular order, here are all my suggestions on the top things to add to your Vermont itinerary!

1. Tour Hildene

One amazing thing to see in Vermont that’s equal parts historic and breathtaking is Hildene, The Lincoln Family Home. Located In Manchester in the southern part of the state, this stunning estate allows visitors to tour the interior, as well as the grounds.

And what a lot of people don’t realize about Hildene is that even if you’re not a history person, it’s worth visiting just to walk around the grounds because it offers some of the best mountain views in Vermont.

Hildene is the former summer home of Robert Todd Lincoln (the son of President Lincoln), and his wife, Mary. It stayed in the Lincoln family until the 1970s, too! The interior of the estate is a perfect snapshot of history brought to life, and the grounds include beautiful gardens, mountain views and nature trails. It’s wonderful to visit year-round.

2. Visit Stowe

I love so many towns in Vermont for different reasons, but Stowe is one that I recommend a lot to first-timer’s when visiting, especially in the fall and winter seasons. Not only is the actual town picture-perfect with covered bridges and quaint boutiques, but it’s also home to world-class foliage, stunning mountain vistas and incredible ski resorts.

Some of the top things to do in Stowe include taking the gondola up to Vermont’s highest mountain summit (Mount Mansfield), walking down Main Street to visit the shops, browsing Stowe Mercantile and strolling down the Recreation Path. But there are so many more things to do, so be sure to click the link below to check out my post on Stowe!

Click here to check out my post on the best things to do in Stowe!

3. Stroll Around Manchester

Home to Hildene, and so much more, Manchester is a wonderful town to explore in southern Vermont. With a charming downtown that has a great mix of independent shops and retail outlet chains, awesome restaurants, hiking, great hotels and resorts and waterfalls, this is one you’ll want to add to your Vermont bucket list.

One of the best shops to check out in Manchester is Northshire, which is an awesome book and gift shop with really cool finds. Lye Brook Falls, hiking up Mount Equinox and touring the nearby covered bridges should also be on your list.

4. Hit The Slopes At Amazing Ski Resorts

Once the winter season rolls around, it’s time to hit the slopes in Vermont! And there’s really no shortage of amazing ski resorts to check out in Vermont.

Stowe Resort, Killington, Mad River Glen, Okemo Mountain, Jay Peak and Sugarbush are the top-rated ski destinations, but you’ll find more all over that are worth your time.

Cross-country skiing is also wonderful in Vermont. In fact, Stowe is home to the first cross-country ski center in the U.S., which can be found at the Trapp Family Lodge in Stowe.

5. Inner Tube Down A River

Switching gears back to the summer season for a bit, let’s talk about all the fun opportunities in Vermont to float down a lazy river. All over the state, you’ll find places that rent out inner tubes, and even pick you up at the end of the river so you don’t have to find your way back to the car.

On a hot summer day, this is the perfect way to relax in the Green Mountain State!

Some awesome places to check out for river tubing in Vermont are Vermont River Tubing in Stockbridge, Vermont River Runners and Big Big on the Battenkill.

6. Take In The Views From Vermont’s Highest Peak

I mentioned earlier that one of the best things to do in Stowe is to take the Gondola up to the summit of Mount Mansfield, which is the highest peak in Vermont, and this definitely deserves its own spot on this list.

You can also hike to the top, but for anyone looking for a more relaxing excursion, the Stowe Gondola is an easy way to enjoy the mountain summit.

This is fun in the summer, but fall is the most amazing time to do this because the rolling mountains in the background dripping in fall color is just such an amazing site to see.

7. Hike As Many Mountains As You Can (Or Drive Up, I Won’t Tell 😉)

There’s a reason Vermont is nicknamed the Green Mountain State! And the Green Mountain range is only one of six. And, there are over 1,300 named mountains in Vermont, so you really have your pick of summits to explore.

Some of the mountains have auto roads that make it easy to explore the top (or, gondolas, as mentioned above!). And some, well, the only way up is to hike.

Mount Equinox and Burke Mountain are two great ones to drive up. If you’re looking for an epic hike, Camel’s Hump gets my vote. But really, you can kind of head in any direction in Vermont to find a great mountain hike for almost all levels.

8. See The Covered Bridges

One of my personal favorite things to do in Vermont is tour the covered bridges. In fact, Vermont is home to the most covered bridges per square mile than any other state in the country. There’s also over 100 of them to see during your visit. And these historic and charming structures are absolutely worth scouting out during your visit.

I’ve done so many road trips looking for covered bridges in Vermont, so I decided to create an entire post on the most perfect covered bridges driving tour for first-timer’s. This won’t take you to every covered bridge in the state, but it’ll guide you toward the best ones, and also include some of the best towns in the state to explore.

Click here to check out my post on the best Vermont covered bridges road trip!

9. And Definitely Visit Emily’s Bridge During Spooky Season!

One of the most popular covered bridges to visit in Vermont is Gold Brook Covered Bridge, but often goes by Emily’s Bridge. This one is famous for being haunted, so it makes an especially fun excursion in the fall season.

The legend goes that a young woman named Emily hung herself from the rafters of the bridge when her boyfriend didn’t show up to elope. There have been reports of cars getting scratched, and strange women’s voices when crossing the bridge. But, you’ll just have to go and see for yourself if you believe in all the stories 😉

10. Eat ALL The Cheese

Guys, the cheese scene in Vermont is no joke, and if you’re a cheese lover, this is the place to be! Because of all the rural dairy farms in the state, there are tons of places that make incredible cheese made from the best local ingredients.

A few of my favorites to check out are Sugarbush Farms in Woodstock (they also make awesome maple syrup!), Shelburne farms in Shelburne, and of course, Cabot. In fact, if you swing by Waterbury, you can visit the Cabot Farmer’s Cheese Store, where they have samples of different varieties. Most places will have samples of their cheeses, too, so come hungry and stock up on your favorites before heading home.

11. Taste The Local Maple Syrups, Too

But if there’s one food Vermont is most known for, it’s maple syrup, right? So, when you come to visit, one of the best things to do is visit all the sugar shacks and syrup farms you can! They won’t be hard to find, since Vermont produces 50% of the maple syrup in the U.S.

While you’re at it, be sure to check out all the maple flavored … well, everything! Candies, chocolates, drinks and so much more. It’s fun to get into the maple spirit on your getaway to Vermont!

12. Visit The Breweries

Vermont is home to some incredible breweries, so if you’re into craft beers, this is an excellent destination to add a few to your itinerary.

Fiddlehead, Foam Brewing and The Alchemist are all in my top list to visit in Vermont, but there are over 60 breweries throughout the state to check out!

13. Shop At The Vermont Country Store

Most people are familiar with the Vermont Country Store catalogs, but there are actually two stores you can visit while in Vermont! One is in Weston, and the other in Rockingham, and they’re both equally as fun to visit, so it just depends on which works better with your itinerary.

The stores are huge, and they sell everything you’d find in their catalogs and online including awesome apparel, Darn Tough Socks (which are made in Vermont and make for a great souvenir!), body products and skincare, candies, home decor and kid’s stuff.

14. Drive Route 100

One of the most famous drives to take in Vermont is Route 100, which runs through the middle of the entire state. Starting in Stamford in the south, and going up to Newport in the north, it will take you pretty close to the Canadian border!

And along the way, you’ll get to visit some wonderful places, including covered bridges, the Vermont Country Store in Weston, Waitsfield, Waterbury and Stowe. And it’s pretty easy to venture off Route 100 to get to some other notable places like Woodstock, Wilmington and Burlington.

Route 100 is spectacular in the fall for foliage season, but can be done year-round.

15. Have A Maple Creemee

While the official Vermont state dessert is apple pie, more people probably guessed that it was the maple creemee if you’re familiar with the area. And if you’re not sure what a maple creemee is, it’s a soft-serve, maple-flavored ice cream! Since the maple syrup in Vermont is especially high quality and pure, the best maple creemees you’ll find are here in Vermont.

And these are definitely a staple in the area. Most ice cream places will have some version of the maple creemee (or just a regular creemee if maple flavor isn’t your thing!). A few great places to try one for yourself are:

• Canteen Creemee Company – Waitsfield
• Creemee Stand – Wilmington
• Woodstock Scoops – Woodstock
• Creemees Ice Cream – Burlington
• Village Creeme Stand – Bristol

16. Shop At Church Street Marketplace

Burlington is a worthy Vermont destination on its own, but one of the coolest places to check out there is Church Street Martketplace. Spanning 4 blocks long, this pedestrian-only shopping district in downtown Burlington is home to some pretty awesome shops, boutiques and eateries, making it one of the best shopping districts in the state.

Some great places to check out on Church Street Marketplace are:

• Smuggler’s Notch Distillery
• Crow Bookshop
• Lake Champlain Chocolates
• Leunig’s Bistro & coffee stand
• Bonus tip: look for all the cool street art along the way!

17. Walk Around Woodstock

It’s going to be hard to find a more idyllic town in Vermont than Woodstock, and there’s a reason it’s one of the top-visited destinations in the entire state. Packed to the brim with charm and movie-quality moments at every turn, it’s a place that should be on everyone’s itinerary.

The great thing about Woodstock is that it’s wonderful year-round, but fall is especially perfect (of course!). There are gorgeous shops and boutiques, awesome restaurants, a town green and three covered bridges to check out. Billings Farm & Museum, and Sugarbush Farms are also just a quick drive away for a more countryside vibe.

Click here to check out my post on all the amazing things to do in Woodstock!

18. And Don’t Forget Billings Farm & Museum!

Speaking of Billings Farm & Museum , it really does deserve its own spot on the list. If you’ve never been, this is definitely something you’ll want to have on your radar during your visit.

Both a working farm and museum, this destination does an incredible job with interactive exhibits, seasonal events and offering scenic grounds to explore. Some of the best times to visit are in the spring during their Baby Animal Days celebration, fall for their Harvest Festival, and during the holidays for their Christmas & Wassail Weekend festivities.

19. Attend A Vermont Christmas Celebration

And we can’t talk about Christmas without mentioning all the magical holiday celebrations around Vermont! Since it’s such a warm and cozy destination to begin with, the holidays just add a little something extra to this winter wonderland.

A few of the best holiday celebrations around Vermont are:

• Traditional Christmas in Stowe
• Wassail Weekend in Woodstock
• A Very Merry Middlebury
• Special Christmas Decor at Hildene
• Illuminate Vermont in South Burlington
• Pro tip: don’t forget to attend a special tree lighting!

20. See The Old Round Church

Located in Richmond between Waterbury and Burlington, you’ll find the beautiful Old Round Church, which is such a wonderful scene to take in.

Built in the early 1800s as a meeting house and place of worship, not only is the architecture truly unique, but history remains preserved on the inside for an even more special experience. Some historians even claim that it’s the last remaining 19th Century, 16-sided wooden structure in the world, which is all the more reason to add this to your itinerary.

21. Sip The Local Spirits

Vermont actually has a pretty wonderful array of spirit distillers, and they’re all really fun to visit during your trip!

In fact, an award-winning gin is produced in Vermont, and you can visit to tour the facilities, or stop by for a tasting or cocktail. Caledonia Spirits makes the famed Barr Hill Gin, which has won countless awards including Gin Of The Year. This is truly an awesome stop to make during your Vermont travels, as their bar whips of some pretty mean cocktails, too.

Smuggler’s Notch Distilling, Green Mountain Distillers and Vermont Distillers are all also worthy of your time.

22. Splurge On A Weekend At A Top Vermont Resort

Vermont is home to some pretty epic resorts in New England, and if you’re looking to splurge for a special occasion, this is a great place to do it.

View this post on Instagram A post shared by Spruce Peak (@sprucepeak)

Here’s my list of the best resorts in Vermont that are worth your hard-earned money:

• Woodstock Inn & Resort
• The Lodge At Spruce Peak
• Seesaw’s Lodge

Click here to check out my list of the most incredible New England Resorts & Spas!

23. Find Your Way Through The Great Vermont Corn Maze

In the fall season, there’s not a more fun activity than making your way through the Great Vermont Corn Maze. Located in Danville, this corn maze is actually regarded as one of the best in the entire country. Spanning over 24 acres, you’ll want to budget plenty of time to find the exit because there’s a good chance you’ll get a bit lost – which is all part of the fun!

But there’s actually some more really awesome corn mazes in Vermont , so be sure to scope out a few if you visit in late summer, or in the fall.

24. Tour The Ben & Jerry’s Factory

You can’t talk about the best things to do in Vermont and not mention Ben & Jerry’s, right? This now household name for ice cream is a staple for people worldwide, and with famous flavors like Chunky Monkey, Half Baked and Phish Food, as well as celebrity collaborations, it’s one of the top names in the world when it comes to ice cream.

And it was all started right in Vermont. In fact, it began in an old gas station in Burlington, and flourished into what it is today.

When you’re in Vermont, you can stop by the Ben & Jerry’s factory in Waterbury! Tour the factory, visit the flavor graveyard to see all the discontinued flavors, and stop at their scoop and gift shops for a fun treat and cool things to bring home.

25. Visit The Shoppes At Quechee Gorge Village

Quechee is one of my favorite little towns to visit in Vermont, and one of the best places to check out here is the Quechee Gorge Village. This is where you’ll find the Quechee General Store, the Antiques Mall (which seems to go on forever!), and a few other great little shops.

You can also find the Vermont Spirits Distilling Co. tasting room here, too. This is a really fun and unique shopping destination in New England.

26. See Quechee Gorge

Near the Quechee Gorge Village, you’ll find the actual Quechee Gorge, which is most definitely worth your time. Free to visit, just grab a parking spot at the Visitor’s Center, and cross the street to the bridge over the Ottaquechee River to take in views of what’s been nicknamed “Vermont’s Little Grand Canyon.”

If you feel like spending a bit more time here, you can also hike around the area to enjoy different views of the gorge along the way.

27. Get All The Chocolates You Can

Surprisingly, Vermont makes some pretty great chocolates! In fact, one of my favorite things to do in the fall and winter season is snatch up all the chocolates I can. All over the state, you can find wonderful chocolatiers that make classic treats, and also come up with original flavor profiles.

Here are some of my favorite chocolate places to check out in Vermont:

• Lake Champlain Chocolates (located in Burlington, Waterbury, and Stowe)
• NU Chocolate in Burlington
• Tavernier Chocolates in Brattleboro
• Middlebury Sweets
• Village Peddler and Chocolatorium in Arlington (a fun stop to combine with the Arlington Covered Bridge!)
• Farmhouse Chocolates in Bristol

28. Visit A Rock Quarry

Vermont is actually pretty famous for its rock quarries, and believe it or not, it’s home to the largest underground marble quarry in the world – Danby Quarry! And while you can’t tour that one, there are others you can tour or visit on your own for pretty awesome views.

A cool one to check out is Smith Quarry, which takes you to an overlook of the largest operating deep-hole granite quarry in the world ( I know – who knew that would be in Vermont, right?! ). And if you’re in Manchester, you can take a dip in the Dorset Marble Quarry, which is just a few minutes from downtown Manchester.

29. Stay Overnight At A Farm

One of the most fun and unique things to do in Vermont is book a stay at Fat Sheep Farm & Cabins , which is located in Windsor, and accessible to Killington and Woodstock.

View this post on Instagram A post shared by Fat Sheep Farm & Cabins (@fatsheepfarm)

During your stay at this working farm, you’ll get to enjoy your beautiful cabin, but also get a taste of what farm life is like. You can book cheese and sourdough breaking-making workshops, garden tours, participate in animal chores around the farm (like feeding sheep and goats, and collecting eggs from the chicken coops!), or you can just take a more relaxing approach by visiting with all the cute animals.

This is truly such a special experience while you’re visiting Vermont, so I encourage you to check them out!

🐑 Click here to check out rates and availability!

30. Enjoy A Full Vermont Country Breakfast

You can’t leave without trying a full Vermont country breakfast! Because farming and agriculture is such an important and plentiful industry in Vermont, so many ingredients and foods are incredibly fresh throughout the region.

During a true Vermont country breakfast experience, you’ll typically be served coffee and/or fresh juice, farm fresh eggs, pancakes, fresh breads, bacon or sausage and toasts. The experience is different everywhere you go, but the food is always delicious. Just be forewarned, you may not have room for lunch!

31. Go To The Top Of The Bennington Battle Monument

Bennington can be found in the southern part of Vermont, close to Manchester, and one of the coolest things to do in town is to go to the top of the Bennington Battle Monument. Driving into Vermont from New York, you can see the monument from quite a distance, and it actually looks a bit like the Washington Monument in D.C.

The monument is 306 feet tall, and from the top on a clear day, you can see three states in the distance. The views are especially beautiful in the fall season with foliage colors abound!

32. Have A Fall Foliage Getaway

Speaking of fall color, the number one thing everyone should plan to do in Vermont at some point is a fall foliage getaway. Vermont might be most famous for its spectacular foliage, and there’s a really good reason for that – it’s even more amazing in person than in the postcards and stock photos you see.

The entire state has gorgeous foliage at every turn, so it’s hard to not see it during a fall trip. The one thing you’ll want to do is time your trip right. Each region in Vermont turns at different times, with the northern areas turning in late September, and the mid-region peaking around Indigenous Peoples’ Weekend. Southern areas usually peak mid-October.

33. Drive Smuggler’s Notch In The Fall

One of the best drives for fall foliage in Vermont is Smugglers Notch, which is in Stowe (another reason Stowe is a must-visit!). This road that runs through Smugglers Notch State Park and is free to drive and explore. But the fall foliage here is honestly … epic.

The entire drive is lined with yellow, orange and red leaves, and because the road is full of curves and hairpin turns, it’s also very scenic.

34. Explore The Marsh-Billings-Rockefeller National Historical Park

Another amazing place to visit that can be found in Woodstock is the Marsh-Billings-Rockefeller National Historical Park . This is such a wonderful park that’s perfect for connecting with nature year-round, and is home to over 20 miles of scenic trails.

At the park, you can also take guided nature tours, go horseback riding, and stroll amongst the maple trees in the forest. This is such a beautiful place to explore, and shouldn’t be missed on your trip.

35. Bike The Burlington Greenway Bike Path

The Burlington Greenway is an awesome paved path for both bikers and pedestrians, and spans about 8 miles. A large part of it runs along Lake Champlain for beautiful views along the way, and also connects to the Local Motion Ferry, which takes you (and your bike!) to the Champlain Islands to discover even more beautiful scenery.

If you’re in the Burlington area, this is definitely one of the most fun things to do on a beautiful day in the spring, summer and fall seasons. And in the winter, you’re able to use it to cross-country ski.

36. Go On A Spooky Queen City Ghostwalk

Also while in Burlington, be sure to book a Queen City Ghostwalk tour! These tours are especially perfect in the fall season in October to coordinate with Halloween and all things spooky, and with several options available, you’re sure to find the perfect ghostly experience.

Led by Vermont-native and author Thea Lewis, tours include stories of serial killers, paranormal activity, urban legends, and local lore and history, and are packed with all kinds of information on Vermont’s past that’s sure to give you goosebumps. And because each tour is expertly researched, it’s absolutely worth your time and money.

37. Explore The Beautiful Vermont Lakes

Vermont is the only New England State that’s not bordered by ocean coastline, but it makes up for that with stunning lakes. Lake Champlain is the biggest in the state, and can be found in Burlington. There are some wonderful boat tours around Lake Champlain that offer beautiful scenery along the way.

But Vermont has over 800 lakes to explore, so this is something you’ll definitely want to add to your itinerary if you’re looking for some water views – especially in the summer. Lake Willoughby is an especially scenic one to check out, and Crystal Lake, Lake Saint Catherine and Lake Bomoseen are all also beautiful.

38. Take A Scenic Cruise Along Lake Champlain

View this post on Instagram A post shared by Spirit of Ethan Allen (@spiritofethanallen)

As mentioned above, cruising around Lake Champlain is such a treat, so this is another activity that really deserves its own mention. On board the Spirit of Ethan Allen , you’ll have options for scenic narrated tours to learn more about the area, sunset cruises, and even lunch cruises.

Wondering why the ship is named after Ethan Allen? Well, stick around until later in this post to find out!

39. Visit The Champlain Islands, Too!

Mentioned earlier, you can take a ferry over to the islands along Lake Champlain for an exciting and more secluded excursion. In fact, you can actually drive directly to 4 of the islands via the causeway: South Hero, North Hero, Isle la Motte, and Grand Isle.

Lake Champlain’s islands are known for outdoor recreation, historical significance and quirky attractions, and they’re definitely worth a visit if you’re looking to explore more of Vermont’s lakes. Of course, kayaking and canoeing are one of the top things to do when visiting, and you’ll also want to swing by Hero’s Welcome general store, discover the state parks, and stroll through the charming towns on the main islands.

40. Visit Shelburne Farms

One thing I love to recommend to people when they’re visiting Vermont is to head just south or Burlington to Shelburne and visit Shelburne Farms. A working farm with over 1400 acres of beautiful land to explore, which includes pastures, woodlands, gardens and scenic nature trails, Shelburne Farms is such a treat to visit.

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Once owned by the Vanderbilt family, Shelburne Farms is also a seasonal inn, so you can stay overnight on the property. Their farm-to-table restaurant is incredible, but even if you just come for a few hours to walk the grounds, it’s a memorable excursion!

41. Stay At The Trapp Family Lodge

Earlier in the post, I talked about how Vermont was home to some of the best resorts in New England and one that stands out as a unique experience is the Trapp Family Lodge , which is the home of Maria von Trapp, the author of the book that inspired the movie, The Sound Of Music . Believe it or not, Maria’s family settled in Stowe, VT where the lodge remains today!

Now, the lodge was rebuilt in the 1980s after a fire destroyed the original, but the location and the style of the lodge is the same. You’ll instantly feel transported into an Austrian-inspired heaven when you arrive.

42. Visit Cold Hollow Cider Mill

Open year-round, but especially fun in the fall season, Cold Hollow Cider Mill in Waterbury is such a classic Vermont stop to make during your visit. Part cidery, part general store, and tons of fun, you’ll be able to grab freshly-made donuts and cider here, as well as shop from the store that has everything from candies and home decor, to local speciality foods, maple syrups and apparel.

Be sure to walk across the parking lot to their hard cider tasting room and restaurant, too!

43. Shop At The Simon Pearce Flagship Store

The flagship Simon Pearce store can be found in Quechee (yet another reason to visit this cute little town), and you’ll be totally inspired once you walk in. Known as heirloom-quality housewares and decor crafters, Simon Pearce is a quintessential Vermont and New England brand.

Downstairs, you can enjoy a free glass glowing demonstration, as well as ask the artisans questions while they work. And upstairs next to the shop, you can dine at The Mill, which is next on my list!

44. Have Lunch At One Of The Most Romantic Restaurants In The U.S.

Looking to have a romantic lunch or dinner during your trip to Vermont? You’ll want to consider booking a table at The Mill, which is inside the Simon Pearce shop in Quechee. Travel + Leisure named this as one of the most romantic restaurants in the entire country!

The restaurant overlooks the Ottauquechee River and Quechee Covered Bridge to create a lovely ambience, and of course, the food and drinks are wonderful. This is perfect for a special occasion, or just to have a lovely meal out because really, who needs an occasion to splurge, right?

45. Do A Wheel Workshop At Farmhouse Pottery

Farmhouse Pottery is now sold in boutiques all over the country, and pieces are still hand-thrown right in Vermont in their flagship store!

If you’re a fan of beautiful and simple pottery designs, you’ll want to visit Farmhouse Pottery’s shop and studio in Woodstock. Located just a few minutes outside the main village, the shop is beautifully merchandised to really let their pieces shine, and the studio is often open for you to walk in and talk to the artisans making each of the pieces.

46. Find All The Best Country Stores

I mentioned the Vermont Country Store earlier on this list, but I would be remiss to not mention that there are so many other amazing country stores throughout Vermont that are worth visiting. Most are housed in historic buildings with gorgeous, creaky hardwood floors, and shelves stocked with local foods, goods, decor and a bunch more stuff you didn’t know you needed.

Here are a few of my favorite general and country stores in Vermont:

• Stowe Mercantile in Stowe
• Original General Store in Pittsfield
• Shelburne Country Store
• Dorset Union Store in Dorset
• The Vermont Spot in Hartford
• Hogback Mountain Country Store in Marlboro

47. Visit The 100 Mile Overlook

The last country store on my list from above in Marlboro is also home to this awesome 100-Mile Overlook, which is a really fun stop to make. And, as the name so perfectly explains, on a clear day you can see 100 miles in the distance, including some of the New Hampshire peaks.

After enjoying the view, head into the Hogback Mountain shop for some ice cream and country store shopping!

48. Have A Fresh, Farm-To-Table Dinner

Vermont probably has the best farm-to-table dining scene of all the states in New England, and I’m sure that has to do with the fact that rural farming is such a prevalent lifestyle and industry in the Green Mountain State.

View this post on Instagram A post shared by Sawmill Bar & Table (@sawmillbarandtable)

Most restaurants heavily rely on local ingredients for their menus, so it’s not hard to find some pretty awesome farm-to-table dining during your visit.

Here are a few amazing places to check out:

• Michael’s on the Hill in Waterbury
• Hen of the Wood in Waterbury
• Kismet in Montpelier
• Sawmill Bar & Table in West Diver
• The Crooked Ram in Manchester
• Shelburne Farms

49. Visit The Awesome Pumpkin Patches, Apple Orchards & Farm Stands

In the fall season, it doesn’t get better than visiting a pumpkin patch and farm stand selling apple cider and donuts on a crips autumn day, am I right? And I’m sure it comes as no surprise that you can find these alllllll over Vermont.

Here are some of my favorites to check out:

• The Apple Barn & Cafe in Bennington
• Mad Tom Orchards in East Dorset
• Burt’s Apple Orchard in Cabot
• Kingdom Corn Maze & Pumpkin Patch in Sutton

50. Stay At A Cozy Inn

Okay, so I’ve covered why splurging on a luxury resort in Vermont is definitely worth your money, but let’s also talk about all of Vermont’s cozy inns and B&B’s. In fact, this is one of the best kinds of accommodation to book when traveling through the state because they’ll all feel like home, and offer that Vermont country breakfast I mentioned earlier.

Sometimes, inns and B&Bs in Vermont can be a bit pricey, but the good thing is, they come in all budgets. And while the pricier ones have always been worth it, the affordable ones are also quaint and cozy, just with fewer amenities.

These are few that I recommend checking out:

• Four Chimney’s in Bennington
• Green Mountain Inn in Stowe
• Jackson House Inn in Woodstock
• The Grafton Inn in Grafton

51. Eat At American Flatbread

It’s possible you’ve seen frozen American Flatbread pizzas in your local grocery store, and this awesome pizza restaurant started right in Vermont! In fact, you can dine at the original in Waitsfield, which is also a 25 acre farmstead.

They now have 11 locations throughout New England, 5 of which are in Vermont. And the quality of the food and ingredients has never faltered. This is still one of my favorite places to eat in the state. They have a laser focus on farm-fresh ingredients, and their pizzas are absolutely amazing.

Each location is also super cozy, often with fireplaces, and have really nice bars to sample local craft brews and fun cocktails. These are definitely not your average pizza joints.

52. Visit The Ethan Allen Homestead & Museum

Most people know the furniture brand Ethan Allen, but you may not know that it all began in Vermont. The company was named after a Revolutionary War hero named … you guessed it … Ethan Allen, and was founded by two brothers-in-law who bought an old sawmill in Vermont, and began to make furniture.

The war hero Ethan Allen, however, was an important part of capturing the British at Fort Ticonderoga during the Revolutionary War. He was also the first leader and commander of The Green Mountain Boys, who also played an integral role in the Battle of Bennington.

Allen settled in the Burlington, Vermont area after fighting in the Indian War, and his homestead is now an amazing museum along the Winooski River. The museum takes you back in time to what life in New England was like in the late 1700s, and kids can even try on Colonial clothing!

The museum is located within Ethan Allen Homestead Park, which has over 4 miles of scenic nature trails to explore.

53. Attend A Fall Festival

For a destination known for its stunning fall foliage, of course there will be some fun fall festivals to go with it! Vermont has some really exciting fall events to consider attending during your visit. Here are a few to check out:

• Burke Fall Foliage Festival
• Autumn on the Green – Danville (home of the Great Vermont Corn Maze!)
• HarvestFest at Stratton Mountain
• Mount Snow Oktoberfest
• Killington Harvest Faire

54. And A Winter Festival, Too!

Yep, there are some pretty awesome winter festivals in Vermont, too! This shouldn’t come as a huge surprise since the snowy season is pretty well-celebrated and enjoyed in the Green Mountain State. Here are a few really fun winter festivals in Vermont to check out:

• Stowe Winter Carnival
• Newport Winter Festival
• The Grafton Ice Bar (hosted by one of my favorite cozy inns in Vermont – The Grafton Inn!)
• Great Ice! In North Hero
• Waterbury Winterfest

55. Visit The Vermont Teddy Bear Factory

One of the cutest and highest-quality stuffed animals you can get are made right here in the Vermont Teddy Bear Factory. And you can actually visit the factory in Shelburne, VT! To make a day of it, plan to visit both Shelburne Farms and the Teddy Bear Factory 🙂

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At the factory campus (yes, it’s a campus), you can make your own custom bear to bring home, take a guided tour to watch the bear artisans at work, and visit the bear hospital, where you learn about how the factory fixes up your favorite friend to make them good as new.

And the outdoors is a wonderful place to hang out. Kids can even enjoy Teddy Bear Picnics on select days throughout the year.

56. Eat At The Famous Blue Benn Diner

Located in Bennington, one of the most famous diners in Vermont is the Blue Benn. Media outlets like Yankee Magazine , Thrillist and Martha Stewart have raved about it, too, and it’s become a staple in southern Vermont.

Blue Benn is open for breakfast and lunch, and is known for comfort food classics and fresh spins on healthy options (you have to try their nut burger!). Pretty much everything on the menu here is a winner, though. When you’re done, be sure to save room for either their homemade pie or homemade pudding, and thank me later 😉

57. Do The Canopy Walk At VINS Nature Center

Short for the Vermont Institute of Natural Science, VINS is home to the Canopy Walk through the forest tree tops, which is especially beautiful during foliage season (but is honestly great year-round).

View this post on Instagram A post shared by VINS (@vinsraptors)

The Canopy Walk is an awesome boardwalk system that’s also ADA-accessible, and sits 100 feet above the ground to allow you an immersive nature experience. Built to educate visitors on environmental sustainability, admission tickets also include access to the entire nature center and its exhibits.

58. Walk The Robert Frost Interpretive Trail

Located in Ripton, just 20 minutes outside Middlebury, you’ll find this wonderful Robert Frost Interpretive Trail. Known for his poetry that highlighted the natural beauty of the New England region, Frost actually lived off-and-on in Ripton during the last 20 years or so of his life – he even taught at Middlebury College.

He moved to Vermont to enjoy better farmland and grow apple trees, and his home can still be visited in Ripton along the trail (although, the interior remains closed to the public).

But along this easy trail that’s only about a quarter of a mile long inside the Green Mountain National Forest , you can relax and connect with nature on a path that’s lined with Frost’s poetry. It’s actually a really cool and thoughtful experience because his poems are some of the most well-known celebrations of nature. So, to read them while walking through the woods and ponds where he once lived is really quite memorable.

59. See Vermont By Train

Vermont actually has a couple of wonderful options for scenic train rides through the state, which makes this such a cool thing to consider doing during your visit!

For over 50 years, the Vermont Rail System has been taking people for rides that showcase gorgeous landscapes, and with options like a Champlain Valley Dinner ride, or Cocktails on the Rails, it’s also a really fun experience! The Vermont Rail System departs from Burlington, making it easy to work into your itinerary if visiting the Lake Champlain region.

60. Explore The State Capital

Montpelier is the capital of Vermont, and is actually a really cool city to explore. One of the reasons I enjoy visiting is because it feels kind of like a city and a small, charming town at the same time.

During your visit to Montpelier, here are a few awesome things to consider checking out:

• Stroll through Hubbard Park (especially great during fall foliage season!)
• Cocktails and tastings at Barr Hill Distillery
• Dine at Oakes & Evelyn
• Taste local maple syrup at Morse Farm Maple Sugarworks
• Sip on wine at North Branch Vineyards
• Snap photos of Coburn Covered Bridge

Bonus: Visit The Vermont Beetlejuice Filming Location!

For fans of Beetlejuice, you may want to consider swinging by East Corinth to see where the famous bridge scene was filmed!

View this post on Instagram A post shared by Matt Emery (@emery_bored)

East Corinth is actually one of the most photographed destinations during fall foliage season, and is one of those idyllic rural landscapes you think of when picturing Vermont. However, one of the reasons it’s a bonus suggestion on this list is because many of the filming locations may not have as much impact when you visit as you’d hope.

Now, I still think it’s such a fun stop to make (even just to appreciate the scenery if you’re not into the movie!), but there’s a few things to note about the filming locations.

The iconic bridge that Barbara and Adam crash through is there, but it’s not a cute little red covered bridge as shown in the movie. They turned into into a covered bridge for the movie, and tore it down once filming wrapped. Same goes for the iconic house. You can visit the hill it was built on, but since the house was made just for the movie, it was also torn down after filming.

But you can see Mason Hall, which was Lydia’s school in the movie! And if you pay attention to the movie before you visit, you’ll be able to see how shots of the town overall were used as B-roll.

What Is The Best Time To Visit Vermont?

While Vermont is beautiful year-round, I think fall and winter are the best times to visit. This is also when hotel accommodations will fill up the fastest, and be the most expensive. But, it’s definitely worth it. Fall in Vermont is famous around the world for a reason!

And, of course, the ski resorts in winter are hard to beat, and they’re some of the best in the entire country.

Psst! I have an entire guide on the best time to visit Vermont , if you’re looking for more information 😉

How Many Days Do You Need In Vermont?

Vermont is so small that you can easily take a day trip, plan a weekend getaway, or even explore for a week or more. It’s entirely up to you! I would say a good sweet spot is a long weekend (3-4 days), which will allow you time to see the best small towns, and some of the top attractions, while also slowing down enough to really enjoy it.

What Is Vermont Known For?

Vermont is famous for several things, including:

• Maple syrup
• Ben & Jerry’s
• The Green Mountains
• Fall foliage
• Postcard-worthy countryside landscapes
• Simon Pearce

More Of My Vermont Travel Guides:

• Vermont In The Fall
• Vermont In The Winter
• Vermont In The Spring
• All The Best Things To Do In Vermont
• Fun Things To Do In Waterbury, VT
• Best Places To Stay In Vermont In The Fall
• Best Vermont Pumpkin Patches & Farm Stands To Visit In The Fall
• Christmas In Vermont: All The Most Festive Things To Do
• What Is Vermont Known For? I’ll Tell You!

Other posts you may find helpful:

• Exciting Things To Do In New England In The Fall
• Best Christmas Towns In New England
• The Perfect New England Fall Road Trip Itinerary
• Vermont vs. New Hampshire In The Fall

That’s A Wrap On The Best Things To Do In Vermont!

And now you’re ready to start planning your next trip to the Green Mountain State! With all these amazing things to do in Vermont, it’ll be tough to decide which to start with. But definitely throw in a mix of the best, most quaint towns, mountains, cozy places to stay, a covered bridge or two, and you’re well on your way to making the perfect Vermont itinerary.

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Northeast Kingdom

Welcome to visit vermont, fall in the green mountains: harvest bounty & fiery colors.

Vermont is a place, but also a state of mind that revels in outdoor beauty, good food, and the preservation of unique small towns and cities. Visitors love Vermont for its colorful fall foliage; ski resorts including Killington, Smugglers' Notch, Ascutney, Stowe , and Mount Snow ; mountain vistas; and attractions for families and kids. Although Vermont is an inland state, there are wonderful beaches along Lake Champlain , along with many lakes, streams, and swimming holes.

VT Quick Links : Great Things To Do - Events Calendar - State Map

© Thomas Schoeller Photography

Vermont regions and highlights :, central vermont.

In the center of this region is Green Mountain National Forest , which welcomes nature lovers all year. Major ski areas here include Killington, Okemo, Sugarbush, and Middlebury. Families can enjoy the outdoors and get hands-on with nature at Billings Farm & Museum and the Vermont Institute of Natural Science in Woodstock, VT , the New England Maple Museum in Rutland, VT . The state capitol of Montpelier, VT is fun and full of activity. The Vermont Country Store in Weston, VT is treasure house of nostalgic shopping.

Northeast Kingdom Region

The term Northeast Kingdom was a distinction first mentioned by former Governor George Aiken in the late 1940s to refer to the natural majestic beauty of the area, which follows the northern reaches of the Connecticut River alongside New Hampshire from St. Johnsbury, VT to the Canadian border, then east to the eastern edge of the Green Mountains at Jay Peak . Much of the area is pristine wilderness - great forests and hilly plains that provide the perfect setting for camping or hunting, dotted with glacial lakes including Lake Memphremagog , which stretches from the city of Newport, VT deep into Quebec, Canada.

Northern Vermont

In the state's northwestern corner you can find the dynamic city of Burlington, VT , right on the shore of lush Lake Champlain and a great place to be for good food, entertainment, a lake excursion or public festival . The nearby state capitol Montpelier, VT is the smallest, and one of the prettiest, in the entire country. (Please give them your support to help recover from the recent catastrophic flooding!) The ski areas here are among the most recognized names in the world for winter sports - Stowe and Smugglers' Notch, VT . Families and kids have plenty to do in the area, from a visit to the cows at the Ben & Jerry's factory in Waterbury, VT to a journey into history or science at the Shelburne Museum in Shelburne, VT .

Southern Vermont

A short drive from New York and Boston, Southern Vermont has a great mix of year-round outdoor activities , historic sites , outlet shopping, beautiful village greens, fall foliage, and covered bridges . The area's large ski areas at Stratton, Peru, West Dover and Londonderry, VT offer great family fun in summer as well as winter. Principal towns are Brattleboro, VT - artsy and bohemian; Bennington, VT - home of Norman Rockwell; and Manchester, VT - a historic resort town with great shopping.

Great Things To Do in Vermont

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What to Do in Vermont This Summer

By Alyssa Giacobbe

Stowe & Waterbury

The ski destination works its mountain terrain all year long, with all-abilities hiking trails up Mount Mansfield, Vermont’s highest peak. At Stowe Mountain Resort, fans of Barry’s Boot Camp and the monkey bars alike will delight in the Treetop Adventure, a progressive obstacle course of swinging logs, wooden bridges, and rope ladders, or perhaps its mildly terrifying ZipTour, which consists of three zip lines starting at the summit. Stowe, like much of Vermont, is for beer-lovers, especially with last summer’s opening of The Alchemist Stowe , the new home of the wildly popular double IPA Heady Topper, which you must drink straight from the can; you can also catch Heady Topper at Doc Ponds Eat & Drink and local favorite Prohibition Pig in next door Waterbury. (For picky kids and pizza-fanatics, head to Piecasso.) Stay at Field Guide , which offers a ‘60s motel vibe and design details like salvaged wood headboards and papier-mâché animal busts alongside communal dining and games like corn hole at in-house restaurant Picnic Social.

Burlington & Lake Champlain

A recently expanded waterfront bike path in the quintessential college town now offers 1,600 miles of routes, many of them along scenic Lake Champlain, as well as family-friendly (and harder) hikes through Red Rocks Park and Ethan Allen Park. Find a fleet of six custom-made Budnitz steel city bikes, as well as refurbished wheels from local bike shop Old Spokes Home, to borrow at Hotel Vermont , also notable for its weekly trivia night and sailing lessons on Lake Champlain. Here, “beer concierge” Matt Canning is on hand to direct guests to craft beers from local breweries that include Foam Brewers, Switchback Brewery, and Zero Gravity. Give the kids an early education in good music at all-ages venue Higher Ground ; summer shows include Alabama Shakes and The Shins, then eat at the newer location of the Waterbury favorite, Hen of the Wood, which does seasonal farm-sourced Vermont without an ounce of smugness (and gets the best-oysters-in-a-landlocked-state award). Another excellent option: Butch & Babe’s, which’ll serve you (though not your kids) pickled ramps in martini form.

The 30-room Woodstock Inn.

Woodstock is the Hollywood version of the New England small town, village green and all. On your way in, stop by Long Trail Brewing Co. , the state’s OG craft brewery, for experimental brews in its new farmhouse annex, or hit farm and winery La Garagista in nearby Barnard, where the owners host a pop-up wine bar. Downtown, find wheel-thrown tableware and themed workshops at Farmhouse Pottery , located in a former Bible bindery, and paper books—remember those?—at the Yankee Bookshop, Vermont’s oldest indie bookseller. Lodging options are unanimously charming. The 506 On the River Inn features 30 river-view rooms done up in local antiques while The Woodstock Inn goes the sleeker route with a recently-renovated spa as well as a partnership with New England Falconry which connects guests with flying and handling sessions as well as “hawk walks.” For more of the great outdoors, the historic Marsh-Billings-Rockefeller National Historic Park, named after a trio of conservationists, hosts a mix of woodland trails. Under new ownership, The Lincoln Inn & Restaurant at the Covered Bridge has itself become a destination for its multi-course dinners with wine pairings. “Farm diner” Worthy Kitchen is the more casual option, with a long craft beer list and Vermont-inspired comfort food favorites like maple-bacon free-range chicken wings.

Long known as one of the Northeast’s most serious ski spots—it’s seven miles from Canada, should you fancy a poutine side trip—Jay turns into a festival town in the summer. This year, the Jay Peak Music Series welcome acts like Dark Star Orchestra and late ‘90s flashback Big Head Todd & the Monsters as well as offering food and craft vendors, free Ben & Jerry’s, and tie-dyeing how-tos. The town also offers plenty of sportier activities. Hike a network of off-mountain trails through Hazen’s Notch, paddle the Northern Forest Canoe Trail, or aim for Jay Peak itself, where you can reward yourself with a beer up top at the Sky Haus Deli. Save room for food truck Miso Hungry, which dishes out authentic ramen from an old tram car, or a local steak at locals’ bar Belfry, in a former schoolhouse. Stay at the recently renovated Hotel Jay, comfortable and convenient with three in-house restaurants, or Tram House Lodge, an all-suite option with locavore bedding by Johnson Woolen Mills. B&B fans might opt for the unabashedly Vermont, and pet-friendly, Phineas Swann . And most definitely not to be missed: The Pump House , an indoor waterpark (with a retractable roof) that’s not just for kids (see: La Chute, a 65-foot, 45-mph tube slide), plus “flowriding,” basically an on-water combo of skateboarding, surfing, and snowboarding that is as difficult as it sounds. Relax afterwards in the outdoor hot tub.

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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. 

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Top Vermont Attractions

Things to do in vermont, explore popular experiences, popular cities in vermont.

Walking Tours

Top Attractions in Vermont

Tours & Sightseeing

What travelers are saying

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.

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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.

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Here’s my guide spending 7 days in bucolic Vermont. This 200 mile Vermont road trip itinerary takes you from southern Vermont to northern Vermont. You’ll drive through the Green Mountains and weave through charming hamlets.

I point out all the must visit attractions and towns in Vermont. I give you tips for visiting Vermont, including where to hike, where to stay, and where to eat.

I also add some bonus destinations at the end of the one week Vermont itinerary, in case you want to extend your Vermont road trip from 7 days to 10 days or more.

One Week In Vermont Itinerary

This one week in Vermont road trip itinerary takes you from Brattleboro in southern Vermont to Stowe in northern Vermont. Distances between destinations are relatively short, so you won’t feel rushed.

To begin your trip to Vermont, fly into Bradley International Airport in Hartford. Brattleboro is a 1:15 drive from the airport. Or, simply drive to Brattleboro to begin.

Day 1: Brattleboro

Start your 7 day Vermont road trip in the gorgeous town of Brattleboro in southern Vermont. It’s New England’s most supportive art centric enclave. Artists settled in Brattleboro to escape the high rents of New England’s major cities, while still remaining close.

Brattleboro’s downtown has been revitalized. It’s now full of art galleries, upper story artist studios, and a broad array of art venues.

The Brattleboro Museum & Art Center is housed in a restored railroad depot. It presents 8 exhibitions annually.

Brattleboro also has a performing arts scene focused on classical music. The marquis venue is the Marlboro Music School. Brattleboro hosts the New England Bach Festival, a winter Chamber Music Series, and the Vermont Renaissance Festival (in nearby Vernon). Or you can catch a movie at the Art Deco Latchis Theatre.

If nature calls, Brattleboro offers four seasons of sports. You can ski, snowshoe, and skate in the winter. And swim, bike, hike, and golf in the summer. Be sure to check out the Creamery Covered Bridge, a rare surviving example of a 19th century wooden bridge.

Where to stay in Brattleboro : The Inn on Putney Road, Chesterfield Inn, Treehouse Village Inn

Where to eat in Brattleboro : Mocha Joe’s Cafe, Amy’s Bakery Arts Cafe, Peter Havens, Duo, T.J. Buckley’s

Pro tip : If it’s pottery you’re after, head to Putney just 9 miles upriver.

Day 2: Chester, Woodstock & Quechee Gorge

As you leave Brattleboro, head west on Route 9 and link up with Route 100. You’ll be traveling north along the eastern edge of the Green Mountains.

There are plenty of panoramic overlooks to stop and take photographs. And plenty of cute towns to visit along the way — Grafton, Chester, Weston, Woodstock, and Plymouth.

If you have time for just one, I’d pick Chester or Woodstock. Both are enchanting New England villages.

Either makes a good place to overnight, with farm to table eateries and charming inns. Alternatively, you could just visit and continue on to Killington, depending on your agenda.

Chester is best known for its Stone Village and Chester Village Historic Districts. The Stone Village derives its name from the plethora of granite houses in the area.

Chester Village gives off a classic Federal and Colonial aesthetic. Chester is also home to cute boutiques, art galleries, and some fabulous restaurants.

Woodstock is ridiculously charming, the quintessential New England town. Well preserved thanks to the Rockefeller family, strolling the adorable downtown is an activity in and of itself.

There are plenty of boutiques, craft shops, antique stores, and bookstores. FH Gillingham & Sons is a classic Vermont general store. Don’t miss the cute covered bridge.

For some exercise, you can stop for a hike in Quechee Gorge en route to Killington. It’s a fairly easy (but steep) hike down to the base of the gorge.

If the clear water sparkling in the sunshine entices you, there’s a place to enter the river for a swim. The best views are from the bridge. If you didn’t get cheese earlier, now is the time to stock up at the Quechee Gorge Village

Where to stay in Chester : Inn Victoria, Fullerton Inn, Stone Hearth Inn

Where to eat in Chester : Free Range, Heritage Deli & Bakery, Pizza Stone VT

Where to stay in Woodstock : Fan House Bed & Breakfast, Kedron Valley Inn, Twin Farms, The Woodstock Inn and Reort

Where to eat in Woodstock : Barnard Inn Restaurant, Cloudland Farm, Keeper’s Cafe, The Red Rooster

Day 3-4: Killington

One days 3 and 4 of your Vermont itinerary, you arrive in Killington. The town is Vermont’s largest ski resort. It’s a must visit town on your one week in Vermont itinerary.

Killington is really a year round outdoor playground, no matter the season. The downtown is a bit strip mall-ish and overdeveloped. But the views from Killington Peak are sublime.

When the weather is warm, hit the Adventure Center where you can zip line and take scenic lift rides. The ski trails are also open for hiking. Deer Leap Trail is a 3 mile loop and leads to a pretty view overlooking Pico Peak.

In winter, you can ski, snowboard, fat bike, cross country ski, snow tube, and take sleigh rides. Because of its snowmaking capacity, the slopes usually open in early November and the lifts run to early May. The Grand Spa is a nice way to end your day.

Where to stay in Killington : Mountain Top Inn, Birch Ridge Inn, Killington Grand Resort Hotel

Where to eat in Killington : The Garlic, The Peak Lodge, Choices

Day 4-5: Burlington

You may want to spend another day in Killington, if you’re sporty. But, if not, the next stop is Burlington, land of the poet Robert Frost and known as one of the most livable small cities in the US.

In Vermont, there’s a saying that “you can’t throw a stone without hitting a poet/painter/potter.” As the largest town in a state of small hamlets, Burlington has developed a self contained art scene that’s the envy of many.

To some, Burlington is akin to a mini Seattle — a politically and socially progressive enclave of college students, regional power brokers, and creative minds.

The jewel of Burlington’s art scene is the Fleming Museum on the University of Vermont campus. The museum has a wide range of artworks and artists. In June, you can attend the Arts Alive Festival. The Firehouse Center for the Arts also hosts year round exhibitions and art programs.

If you want to see a show, head to the Flynn Performing Arts Center . It’s a fully restored Art Deco masterpiece. The Flynn hosts concerts, plays, and traveling Broadway shows.

If you want to disappear into nature, take the Robert Frost Interpretive Trail. It’s a short 1.2 mile woodland walk. You’ll find signs with commemorative quotes from his poems, including The Road Not Taken .

If you’re a foodie, Burlington will suit. It outshines much of the US with a bounty of locally grown food. Farm to table eating is a well established tradition. There’s even excellent street food at Farmers and Foragers Food Truck.

>>> Click here to book a craft brewery tour

And Burlington has a wonderful farmer’s market on Saturdays in the summer and fall. There’s everything from organic meats and cheeses to flowers and maple syrup.

Local artisans also sell their wares. The market is a must see if you’re visiting in season.

Where to stay in Burlington : Willard Street Inn, Hotel Vermont, The Essex, Made INN Vermont

Where to eat in Burlington : Bleu Northeast Seafood, Hen of the Wood, Juniper, The Great Northern, Honey Road

Day 6: Day Trip To Shelburne and Lake Champlain From Burlington

On day 6 of your 7 day Vermont itinerary, stay in Burlington another night. Then day trip to your next Vermont destination. Drive south to the Magic Hat Brewing Company .

This establishment sparked the growth of Vermont’s microbrewery scene. You can take a free half hour tour and fill up your own growler with an experimental brew.

Just down Route 7 is Shelburne, an affluent suburb of Burlington. Shelburne’s main attraction is the 19th century Shelburne Farms .

There, you can learn how cheese is made from start to finish. Or wander around the beautiful 1400 acre estate. The farm overlooks Lake Champlain. It’s the perfect place for a picnic, if you’re brought your own provisions or purchased some at the farm.

Lake Champlain is one of the most iconic places to visit in Vermont. It’s the 6th largest freshwater lake in the US. First head to Oakland Park.

Admire the beach and, if it’s warm, go paddle boarding. Then hike up the Island Line Trail to the Burlington Earth Clock. The clock is a beautiful large stone circle created by locals called Circles of Peace .

If you want to hit up another microbrewery, the Switchback Brewery is your go to place in Lake Champlain. Then, hike the 2.7 mile long Red Rocks Park Loop Trail, where you’ll have beautiful views of the mountains and lake.

Day 7: Stowe

Just a 30 minute drive from Burlington brings you to lively Stowe Vermont. New England is awash in winter resort towns.

But Vermont’s picturesque Stowe is an incredible year round destination you can’t help but fall in love with. It’s especially known for its breathtaking fall foliage.

En route to Stowe, make the requisite stop at Ben & Jerry’s Ice Cream Factory . You can tour the facilities and get the low down on how their ice cream is made. Afterward, you can taste some limited-release creations.

Then, on to beautiful Stowe. In the winter, Stowe is a popular ski destination, with Vermont’s tallest peak Mt. Mansfield. If there’s snow when you arrive, hit the slopes or take a sleigh ride.

Come summer, Stowe swaps skiing for hiking, golf, mountain biking, kayaking, swimming, and scenic drives up the winding Auto Toll Road. For a magical experience, you can go hot air ballooning over the Green Mountains.

Where mountainous Stowe really shines is its hiking trails, with a range of options to suit every level of experience. Some take you to towering peaks, others end in waterfalls.

The Stowe Pinnacle Trail is a 2.8 mile hike to a breathtaking summit with mountain views. When you’re done hiking, snack on some apple cider donuts or indulge in a Vermont Maple Sugar Body Scrub at the Snowflake Spa .

Stowe also boasts a romantic and picture perfect downtown. Its white steepled church is the focal point. The tiny Main Street is filled with boutiques, art galleries, crafts stores, and antique shops.

Sample some of the finest cheddar cheese and maple syrup in Vermont. There are also libraries, museums, theaters, and cultural organizations to keep your entertained.

Where to stay in Stowe: Stowe Mountain Resort, Trapp Family Lodge. Topnotch Resort

Where to eat in Stowe: Plate, Cliff House, Bistro at Ten Acres

Extra Time On Your Vermont Road Trip?

If you have more than 7 days to spend in Vermont, there are plenty of other places to add to your Vermont itinerary.

1. Montpelier

Add a day in pretty Montpelier, just 38 miles south of Burlington in northern Vermont. Montpelier is the country’s smallest capital, though it feels like a village. Its quirky spirit has earned it the nickname of “Montpeculier.”

Montpelier has a historic little downtown center and vibrant cultural scene, with shops, cinemas, art galleries, etc. But its main claim to fame is as a base for outdoor activities. Hubbard Park offers miles and miles of hiking trails. On its highest peak, a romantic stone tower offers 360 mountain views.

You can also tour the Vermont State House , visit the Vermont History Museum , browse in Kellogg Library, and sample a maple “creemee” at the Morse Farm Maple Sugarworks .

Where to stay in Montpelier : Inn at Montpelier, High Hill Inn

Where to eat in Montpelier : NECI on Main, Sarducci’s, Kismet

2. Manchester

Or, if you’d prefer to hang out in southern Vermont, you can add Manchester to the beginning of your Vermont road trip itinerary. It’s only 1:30 from Brattleboro. Seated at the base of Mt. Equinox, Manchester has been a popular summer resort since the 19th century.

Manchester boasts stately homes and marble sidewalks. Its Main Street could hardly be more picturesque. The town is also a bastion of outlet shopping, with famed upscale factory outlets doing business in cute Colonial buildings.

One must see site in Manchester is Hildene , the summer home of Abraham Lincoln’s son. Hildene is a beautiful Georgian Revival style mansion, which holds some of the Lincoln’s family’s most precious possessions. The property also features beautiful gardens.

For hiking in Manchester, hit the Mt. Equinox Trail . It’s a 6.8 mile loop that’s both steep and challenging. The views from the summit are worth the arduous climb. But you can also access the summit by car at the entrance to Skyline Drive.

Where to stay in Manchester : Equinox, Taconic Hotel, Wilburton Inn

Where to eat in Manchester : Bistro Henry, Mistral’s at Toll Gate, Mystic Cafe & Wine Bar, Ponce Bistro, The Silver Fork

I hope you’ve enjoyed my one week itinerary for Vermont. You may enjoy these other United States travel guides and itineraries:

• 10 Day Itinerary for New Hampshire
• 25 Most Beautiful Town in New England
• 10 Day Itinerary for Coastal Maine
• Fall Foliage Road Trip in New England
• 3 Day Itinerary for Boston
• 10-14 Day Itinerary for Southwest US
• 10 Day Southern California Itinerary
• 21 Less Touristy Towns on the East Coast
• Best Art Towns on the East Coast
• Best Art Towns in California

If you’d like to spend one week in Vermont, pin it for later.

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Last Updated on July 9, 2023 by Leslie Livingston

2024 Total Solar Eclipse in Vermont

Things To Do in Vermont

Indoor and outdoor activities to inspire.

2024 TOTAL Solar Eclipse 

Vermont’s location within the April 8, 2024 total solar eclipse’s path of totality makes it an ideal place to take in the wonder and spectacle of this natural event. Discover solar eclipse events and information.

Arts, Museums and Historic Sites

Murals enliven downtowns and make for bright backdrops for memorable outings in Vermont, while galleries, museums, and historic sites preserve and showcase some of the state’s finest art. Here, the arts are everywhere.

Family Vacations

Disconnect from the everyday and immerse your family in Vermont’s history, culture, nature, and recreational opportunities. Family traditions are just waiting to be launched.

OUTDOOR RECREATION

In the water, on a peak, exploring a trail, or sleeping under the stars, recharging your batteries doesn’t necessarily require electricity. Explore Vermont’s great outdoors.

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Winter Recreation

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The Ultimate Vermont Summer Vacation

Families or couples looking for a quiet vacation filled with charm and wholesome fun should look no further than summertime fun in Vermont. Many people consider Vermont a great winter vacation spot for skiing and snowshoeing, but a Vermont summer vacation should not be passed up . Fly into Boston or Burlington International Airport, rent a car, and go on a mini-road trip where you can fully enjoy the sweeping views of lush green mountains and the small towns tucked in between them. Who knows where your destination within Vermont will be, but here are some tips that can help you craft the perfect Vermont summer vacation.

Table of Contents

Vermont Summer Vacation Highlights

Quechee hot air balloon craft and music festival.

If you are planning your Vermont summer vacation in June, then stop by the Quechee Hot Air Balloon Craft and Music Festival. This multi-day festival features more than 20 hot air balloons that float through the sky. Enjoy the colorful view while taking in live music from up-and-coming bands and live entertainment, like a sky diving demonstration or competitive disc fetching dogs. Guests can even ride in a hot air balloon, as long as they book in advance. While you are in Quechee, go ahead and stop by the Simon Pearce Restaurant. Glass blowing demonstrations happen every night in the basement.

Want a restaurant that is less touristy? Go a few minutes away from Simon Pearce to find the Parker House Inn. Their rotating menu is also fresh, local, and delicious.

Read More: Where to Go this Summer – Travel Deals

King arthur flour.

You have probably seen the King Arthur brand in your grocery store, now it is time to see the place where it all happens – King Arthur Flour’s Bakeshop and Cafe. Have a meal and watch the bakers do their magic. Get in on the fun and take a baking class while you are there.

Catch a Stage Show

Vermont has incredible live theater from Summer Stock to Regional Theater. There will definitely be something playing during your Vermont summer vacation.

White River Junction, an old railroad town with a booming arts culture, is home to Northern Stage. Northern Stage has taken over the Upper Valley with a brand new theater that delivers world-class productions. You can catch a classic musical like Sound of Music or a brand new play before it heads to New York City. If you find yourself in Weston on your Vermont summer vacation, then you must pay a visit to the Weston Playhouse . Their summer season is filled with classic summer stock hits. After the show, you can catch a more intimate cabaret with their summer company.

Hike The Appalachian Trail

In 1968 Vermont banned billboards. Once you visit during your Vermont summer vacation, you will understand. The scenery is incredible and something to be appreciated. Carve out some time to hike. Some local favorites include the Appalachian Trail , the Long Trail , and the Quechee Gorge .

Did you plan a hike for a hot day? Vermont has beautifully scenic waterfall hikes with natural swimming holes . Plan your trek to include a mid-day dip.

Is a northern town not your idea of summer vacation? Check out A Family Friendly Vacation at Dreams Riviera Cancun for a more tropical option.

Ben and jerry’s factory tour.

Did you know that Vermont is the home of Ben and Jerry’s Ice Cream? While enjoying your Vermont summer vacation, stop by for a 30-minute guided tour of the factory, a free ice cream tasting, and a visit to the Flavor Graveyard. Flavor Graveyard? Yes, this is the graveyard where all of the ice cream flavors that could not make the cut now lay to rest.

Are you a super fan of ice cream? Ben and Jerry’s offer the “Flavor Fanatic Experience”. In addition to a tour, these guests will help create an ice cream flavor in their very own tie-dyed lab coat. The experience also comes with a gift shop discount, you must buy the “pint lock”, and ice cream tasting perks.

After a long day of ice cream eating, it might be time for a nice sit-down. Enjoy Ben and Jerry’s Summer Outdoor Movies Series.

Are you a fan of Gilmore Girls? Have you always wanted to step foot in Stars Hollow? Well even if you are not a fan, you will still love the quaint charm of Woodstock , Vermont. This quintessential New England town is filled with historic buildings, covered bridges, small shops, and Vermont’s only national park. After a morning of exploring the town during your Vermont summer vacation head to the Marsh-Billings-Rockefeller National Historical Park. Take in the stunning views from the Billings Dairy Farm and the Marsh-Billings-Rockefeller Mansion. Do not forget to meet Bernard, the tallest tree in Vermont, located right next to the mansion.

SculptureFest/Art on the Farm

This is one incredible outing! This free event is open to anyone wishing to see unbelievable sculptures on the scenic King Farm in Woodstock. See one-of-a-kind works by local artists at this “outdoor gallery” during your day in Woodstock.

This oddball site is for all animal lovers who come on a Vermont summer vacation. Sitting atop Dog Mountain is a sanctuary dedicated to man’s best friend. The inside walls are covered with notes and pictures of pet’s that have passed. Throughout the sanctuary, you will find art and stained glass motifs of dogs. This excursion can be a somber but an uplifting experience. Show your appreciation to man’s best friend , then sit on top of Dog Mountain and take in the view.

Norwich Farmers Market

Locals call this the best Farmer’s Market in Vermont. On top of featuring local farmers with fresh vegetables, fruits, meats, and eggs, there are also pastries, arts and crafts, live music, and seasonal events . Enjoy a summer morning at the Farmer’s Market on your Vermont summer vacation while picking up the ingredients for a one-of-a-kind, local family dinner.

Dartmouth College

This is not exactly in Vermont, but it is close enough to count in your Vermont summer vacation. Hanover , New Hampshire is the stomping ground for the Ivy League College – Dartmouth. As soon as you enter the small town, you will see “The Green”, a large quad where students and locals can lay out a blanket and appreciate a sunny day. Just within walking distance are the beautiful buildings that make up the campus, as well as diners like Lou’s Diner, boutiques, and finer dining options like Market Table and Pine. Walking through the town, you can feel the energy of a college town. Pick up some Dartmouth merchandise while you are there. No one needs to know you are not an alumni.

Taste of Vermont: Brewery Tours and Tastings

Vermont has lots of popular breweries, and those breweries do allow children to be present in their taprooms. Some breweries worth mentioning by locals are Long Trail (Bridgewater Corners), Alchemist (Stowe), Hill Farmstead (Greensboro Bend), Harpoon (Windsor), and Magic Hat (Burlington). For those who are fans of craft beer, you must stop at one of these Vermonter watering holes.

Drive-in Movie in Fairlee

Take a trip into the past during your Vermont summer vacation. Watch the latest Blockbuster movie in a vintage drive-in movie setting. After your movie, do not forget to pause and catch a glimpse at the night’s stars.

Burlington is the largest city in Vermont and the first city in the United States to run entirely on renewable energy. Needless to say, Burlington is a cool place, filled with cool people, and a must for a Vermont summer vacation. Start your day on Church Street Marketplace , an open-air mall. Street performers and local artists are a few of the gems you will find hidden within Church Street. There are plenty of bike and walking paths for the active family, or oddities like The Burlington Earth Clock and The World’s Largest Filing Cabinet.

Vermont is a unique state filled with art, music, and values for the natural world and local business. It is important to keep your eyes open during your Vermont summer vacation. You never know what hole-in-the-wall diner, farmer’s market or oddity will be around the corner.

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Vermont Family Vacation: Things To Do And See in Every Season

V ermont’s nickname, “the Green Mountain State,” represents why people want to go on a Vermont family vacation — to escape in nature.

• The Great Outdoors: Vermont is the perfect staycation and vacation getaway if you and your family want to escape work, school, or big cities and return to nature.
• Perfect In Any Season: With a massive array of activities, most of which affordable and featuring the green mountains, finding fun and relaxation is easy regardless of the season.
• Planning Your Break: We’ve done much of the research for you, all that remains is to pick your favorite season and decide what to do when you arrive on your Vermont break.

Related: 10 Must-Have Gadgets for Summer Vacations

Where is Vermont?

Vermont is located in the northeast of the United States, right between New Hampshire and New York. Its weather is quite similar to the states around it, with four distinct seasons. Winters can get quite cold and snowy, but it is worth it when the summer months roll around and the temperature hovers in the 80s for weeks at a time. Each season boasts unique Vermont vacation opportunities, and some of these are listed below.

What to do in Vermont in the Summer?

The summer is a time for sun and swimming. Believe it or not, Vermont isn’t always cold and its natives do plenty of water-related activities.

If you’re feeling adventurous, check out the Dorset Quarry. This is a local hot spot in the summer, but not a lot of people outside of this area know it exists. It used to be a source of marble, but now it is a deep swimming ground (60 ft deep to be exact). People drive there, park their cars for the day, and lounge on the remaining giant marble rocks. One of the rocks is 10 feet above the water, which turns this swimming spot into a cliff diving destination too. There are also smaller-sized jumps, which will make it an adventure for everyone during your Vermont family vacation.

More swimming options include Lake Champlain, Lake St. Catherine, and Lake Bomoseen. These are not too far from the town of Dorset and have Vermont vacation rentals. These are all freshwater lakes that can also offer water sports like tubing, boating, and waterskiing.

There is also the summer theatre series at the Dorset Playhouse , which is only about 30 minutes away from Lake St. Catherine. They put together several plays and musicals that run over the summer from June to September and feature Broadway shows and actors. This is a great nighttime activity if you are looking for some adult entertainment.

These are just some of the activities you can experience if you vacation in Vermont, but there are always hidden gems you can find just driving around this beautiful state.

Related: 7 Tips For How To Survive Your Family Beach Vacation

What to do in Vermont in the Fall?

Vermont cools down a bit in the fall, but nothing beats the view of the leaves changing colors all over the mountains. If you stop by Lake St. Catherine, there is a state park that actually sits on the lake . You can pay to camp there with an RV and use the facilities including hiking trails, fishing, paddle boat rentals, etc.

Another spot to look at the changing colors in the leaves would be Mount Independence in Orwell, VT. Mount Independence is a State Historic Site due to its use in the Revolutionary War as a site where fortifications were built. Along with seeing exhibits highlighting its importance, you can also hike several different trails that lead you up the mountain itself.

If you are ready to leave the water, though, you can stay at nice hotels and inns around the area. For example, in Dorset, Vermont there is the refinished historic Dorset Inn . The Inn sits directly behind the Dorset Field Club, which features a gorgeous and well-acclaimed golf course. This Inn has excellent food and is located right down the street from the Manchester Designer Outlets and the Dorset Playhouse. There is a lot to do in these neighboring towns in terms of shopping, dining, and entertainment.

What to do in Vermont in the Winter?

If you don’t mind the cold, Vermont has awesome winter sports that your whole family will enjoy. For example, if you like to ski, there are several great ski mountains in areas close to each other. Stratton, Bromley , and Killington mountains all have great skiing and snowboarding options. A lot of them have great childcare or skiing lessons that can help out every member of your family. Nearby resorts take care of living and dining arrangements as well.

What to do in Vermont in the Spring?

If you like farms, cheese, and ice cream, there are really cool tours you plan during your Vermont family vacation. There are farm tour options via Vermont Farm Tours  where you can learn how to make cheese and see farms around the Shelburne, Vermont area. The Cabot Creamery and Ben & Jerry’s Factory are also both located in Vermont. The Cabot Visitors Center is in Cabot, Vermont, which features activities like cheese tastings and product displays. Additionally, the Ben & Jerry’s Factory in Waterbury, Vermont offers a guided factory tour and products shop.

Another destination that can be fun in the springtime is The Equinox , which is a hotel, luxury golf resort, and spa. This is a relaxing place where you can get away while also staying close to the Manchester Designer Outlets  and the town of Manchester itself .

Lastly, another place to visit in the spring is the college town of Burlington, VT. This is the home of the University of Vermont , which has great shopping, dining, and scenery. While it is a decent drive from some of the towns previously listed, it makes a great day trip. It also lies on the shore of Lake Champlain , which provides more springtime activities.

As you start to plan your next big trip, think about going to Vermont. Not only does it boast several indoor attractions, but the views are even more impressive. Have fun exploring the beautiful state of Vermont!

The Most Perfect Things to Do in Wilmington VT

By Author Tara Schatz

Posted on Published: April 11, 2024

Tucked into the southern terminus of the Green Mountains of Vermont, Wilmington is a tiny village of just over 2,000 people.  

It sits on the crossroads of Vermont Route 9, which runs east and west, and Vermont Route 100 , which runs the length of Vermont, from Massachusetts to Canada. While many small towns in Vermont and across the country have fallen on hard times, Wilmington is thriving.

New England leaf-peeping trip.

At-A-Glance: Wilmington VT

Want to skip to the good part? Here’s a bite-sized snapshot of everything you need to know to plan your trip to Wilmington, VT.

• When to Go:  Summer for camping and water-based activities. Mid-October for gorgeous fall foliage, and winter for skiing at nearby Mount Snow.
• Where to Stay:   The Nutmeg Inn has an outdoor pool and includes breakfast. The upscale Wilmington Inn is a cozy bed & breakfast near the Hermitage Golf Club.
• How to get here:  If you aren’t within driving distance, we recommend flying into Albany International Airport and renting a car.
• How to Get Around:  Wilmington is very rural, and you will need a car to explore the area fully.
• Top 3 Highlights:  Swimming in Lake Whitingham, tasting local beer at Valley Craft Ales , and climbing the Mount Olga Fire Tower .

Wilmington is fortunate to have both mountains and lakes close by for outdoor adventures, not to mention one of the cutest New England villages in this part of the state.

It attracts out-of-towners in three seasons, so even though Wilmington is a tiny Vermont town, there really is a lot going on –  restaurants, live music, amazing outdoor recreation, and some really cool shops.

Leaf peepers pass through Wilmington in the fall, journeying along Vermont’s back roads for a spectacular and colorful show beyond compare.

The incredible beauty of Wilmington in the autumn is just too good to pass up, and there are numerous back roads, scenic vistas, and attractions to explore as part of a

No matter what season you choose to visit Wilmington, you’ll find eclectic galleries, secluded beaches, and incredible trails, all within the confines of the town proper.

Day trips around southern Vermont are easy from Wilmington — it’s just 30 minutes from Bennington to the west and Brattleboro to the east, both regional hubs for art and culture in their own right.

I am incredibly lucky to live just 30 minutes from Wilmington, so I visit all the time. It’s a great getaway for an afternoon or a weekend, especially if you love the outdoors like I do!

Ready to explore the beautiful town of Wilmington, Vermont? You’ll fall in love with this special town in every season!

All the Best things to do in Wilmington, Vermont

Visitors to Wilmington will find more than a dozen restaurants with eclectic culinary offerings, quirky, independent shopping opportunities, and a variety of lodging choices, from campgrounds and mom-and-pop motels to upscale luxury inns and resorts.

Wilmington is also a playground for outdoor adventurers and nature lovers in every season. That’s why we love it!

Here are our favorite things to do in Wilmington VT:

Recreate or Relax on Lake Whitingham

In the summer, vacationers flock to the gorgeous Lake Whitingham (Harriman Reservoir) to swim, boat, sail, and fish.

Lake Whitingham is one of Vermont’s largest lakes, covering more than 2,000 acres. This human-made lake was created in 1923 by the New England Power Company, which dammed the Deerfield River as part of a hydroelectric power project.

Today, Lake Whitingham is more than eight miles long and features more than 28 miles of wild, undeveloped shoreline.

We find this lake pretty hard to resist, and we spend countless days along its shores every season.

The Best Water Access and Beaches in Wilmington VT

I still chuckle to think of Vermont as a place with honest-to-goodness beaches, but many of the ones on the shores of Lake Whitingham even have sand!

There are many places to swim in Lake Whitingham. The shore is undeveloped, and there are plenty of pull-offs and trails to the water.

We regularly visit three designated spots for swimming. I’ll call them beaches, but that’s not exactly what they are. Fall foliage is beyond amazing here as well, so if you’re visiting in October, be sure to visit these spots for a picnic!

Disclaimer: The names listed below seem to be what the locals call these spots, but I’m not sure they’re official names. Each spot has picnic tables, grills, and porta-potties, though, and on a busy summer day, you’ll share the lake with lots of locals and visitors.

• Fairview Avenue Boat Launch : From Route 9, turn south at the traffic light onto Castle Hill Road. Turn right onto Fairview Avenue and follow it to the end. This spot is sandy and rocky in spots, but the swimming is delightful. There’s also a boat launch here.
• Boyd Hill Road Picnic Area : Just east of the center of Wilmington, turn south onto Route 100. Turn right on Boyd Hill Road and follow to the end. There’s a sailboat mooring area here and it’s really fun to watch the boats come in and out on a windy day. The shore is rocky, and the swimming is deep. There’s also a trail from here that heads out to a nude beach. If you do take the trail, be prepared for the possibility that you’ll see a bit of skin in the summer.
• Woods Road Picnic Area: Just west of town, cross the bridge heading south onto Woods Road. There’s a parking area when the road turns into dirt. This is the start of section 2 of the Catamount Trail (a cross-country ski trail), which you can hike on. There’s a grassy picnic area and a small, sandy beach. This is also a good spot to launch canoes and kayaks into the lake.

Check out the View and Attractions at Hogback Mountain

This amazing view requires zero effort on your part. From Wilmington, drive east on Route 9 and pull off the road when you see the general store and the expansive views.

Technically, this is considered Marlboro but it’s just a couple of short miles outside of Wilmington. From this vantage point, you’re looking east into New Hampshire, where you’ll see Mt. Monadnock and the White Mountains.

There’s a nice deck with picnic tables, pay-per-view binoculars, and of course, the Hogback Country Store , where you can buy t-shirts, cheese, fudge, and souvenirs.

Great views and country stores are part of the quintessential Vermont experience, but there’s more to see in this part of Wilmington. Leave your car where it is – you can walk to the following spots for libations from Hogback Mountain.

• Beer Naked Brewery: Craft beers and wood-fired pizza with seriously epic views! Also, you can pitch your tent behind the brewery for a fabulous night under the stars. Book your stay on Hipcamp .
• Metcalfe’s Distillery: A unique distillery with a tasting room. Metcalfe’s makes an eclectic line-up of spirits and liqueurs, including Maple Bourbon and Vermont Moonshine.

Take a Hike: Best Hikes near Wilmington VT

Wilmington has good hiking too! There are mountain trails and lake trails. Meanders and treks. Here are our favorite hiking trails in Wilmington, VT.

Mt. Olga in Molly Stark State Park: You can access the fire tower on top of Mount Olga by parking at Molly Stark State Park (fee area) and hiking a 1.5-mile loop that brings you to the top of Mount Olga and then down the campground. It’s one of the easiest fire tower hikes in Vermont! You can also access the fire tower from behind Metcalf’s Distillery if you’re already parked at the 100-mile view. From here, the trail is just 1.4 miles round-trip . (Note: the fire tower is temporarily closed for repairs).

Haystack Mountain Trail : This 5-mile (round-trip) trail provides a moderate woodland hike with stunning views from the top of the mountain. The hardest part might just be finding the trailhead, which is in a subdivision with roads and houses that all look the same. If you click on the link above, you’ll find directions. Follow them exactly and you shouldn’t have a problem. We also have a trail guide to hiking Haystack in the winter.

Valley Trail : This is one of my favorite new trail systems, but I haven’t explored it all. The trail connects Mt. Snow and West Dover with Wilmington. Occasionally it follows along the road, but you’ll also explore woods, meadows, wetlands, streams, and ponds. Download the map above and start exploring. Our favorite trails so far are in the Sherwood Forest area.

Hoot, Toot, and Whistle Trail : More of a meander, this trail hugs the river and the lake until it reaches a nice swimming beach and boat launch. It’s a nice walk in the summer and fall, and great for snowshoeing in the winter. The Hoot, Toot, and Whistle Trail begins at the footbridge in town and travels for 2 miles (one way). You can see the trail with directions on the Valley Trail map above.

Hogback Mountain Trails : This is a series of beautiful woodland trails on the north side of Route 9. The parking lot for the trails is just west of the gift shop. While you won’t find far-reaching vistas, these quiet trails offer opportunities for solitude in a mixed forest. Here’s the trail map.

Catamount Trail : The Catamount Trail is a long-distance ski trail spanning more than 300 miles. The Wilmington portion starts at the end of Woods Road west of Wilmington and follows the whole length of Lake Whitingham. There are lots of places to swim as you hike and dogs are commonly off-leash.

There are even more trails that I haven’t explored yet. Here are some more great ideas for day hiking in Wilmington, Vermont.

Explore Mount Snow in Four Seasons

Wilmington isn’t just a fair-weather destination, either. In the winter, Mount Snow , in nearby West Dover, VT, attracts skiers and snowboarders from all over the world.

At 3,600 feet high, Mt. Snow is Vermont’s closest big mountain resort to major Northeast metropolitan areas and one of the most popular ski resorts in all of New England.

If you visit Mount Snow in the summer or fall, you can still take the chairlift to the top of the mountain or get your thrills with a mountain biking adventure .

Read Next: Travel Vermont on a Route 100 Road Trip

 Wilmington VT Restaurants

There are no chain restaurants in Wilmington, and every dining opportunity is unique. From roadside stands to incredible fine dining, here are our top choices for eating out in Wilmington.

Wahoo’s Eatery : After a day swimming, boating, or fishing in Lake Whitingham, this is where we seem to end up, wet bathing suits and all. Wahoo’s offers quality roadside food (burgers, wraps, ice cream) at affordable prices. The ice cream is always our favorite and the burgers are made with local beef. If you’re looking for delicious, unfussy, barefoot dining, this is it.

Dot’s Diner : After Hurricane Irene severely damaged this beloved diner, we were worried that Dot’s might not recover. We’re so glad it did, and that locals and tourists continue to support this Wilmington icon. Head to Dot’s for traditional diner fare, especially breakfast.

Alpenglow : Located on Main Street in downtown Wilmington, eating at Alpenglow is like being transported to Switzerland. This is the perfect spot for date night, but be sure to make reservations. They serve dinner from Thursday to Saturday and brunch on Sunday.

La Casita: This casual Mexican restaurant is always hopping. They have delicious margaritas and the food is good too. For those nights when you’re looking for a festive meal to share with the locals.

Valley Craft Ales: Finally, if you’re looking for fantastic craft beer and wood-fired pizza, you can’t beat Valley Ales. Located in an old mill, this casual spot often hosts live music, which is always a plus.

 Wilmington VT Hotels

We admit that we’re suckers for small roadside motels, which you can definitely find in Wilmington.

There are also some incredibly luxurious inns if that’s your thing, plus a handful of comfortable bed and breakfasts. These are our favorite places to stay in Wilmington, Vermont.

The Viking Motel – It’s not for everyone,  but for families looking for affordable lodging, the Viking Motel has everything you need. It’s clean and cute, if a bit outdated, and the owners will happily chat and give you tips about where to go and what to do. It’s unique and within walking distance of everything — our favorite kind of place.

The Nutmeg – Another sweet find, the Nutmeg is an incredibly charming bed and breakfast in Wilmington. You’ll find a beautiful garden for sitting in, antique furnishings, and friendly hosts. This B&B sits on the outskirts of town, perfect if you don’t want to be in the thick of it. Breakfast is served each morning, and you can also get a delicious evening meal on Friday and Saturday nights.

The Wilmington Inn – A historic inn along the Deerfield River in Wilmington, Vermont, the Wilmington Inn is just minutes from Mount Snow and the Valley Trail. Rent one of six rooms in the main house or four in the carriage house. Groups are welcome too! A full breakfast is included with your stay, and you can also take advantage of the outdoor fire pit, outdoor games, a spacious front porch, or the bar & lounge. This is an intimate and cozy spot for your Wilmington vacation.

Vacation Rentals in Wilmington VT

Need more space for your Vermont vacation? We have been staying in VRBO rentals for a couple of years now, and love that we can find places with a little more room to spread out. We look for vacation rentals that are family and dog-friendly, and we love to have our own kitchen to cook in while we’re on vacation.

• Pet-friendly lakefront home for 10 : Forested views with a wrap-around deck, this Wilmington vacation home is great for large families and it’s just steps from Lake Whitingham and all of its recreational opportunities.
• Beautiful vacation home on Lake Raponda: This waterfront vacation home sleeps six comfortably with fabulous views from the large living room windows. There’s a private swimming dock and canoes and kayaks for you to use during your stay.
• Vacation home with a loft for 10 people: While this home isn’t dog-friendly, it’s a great vacation spot for large families. Includes a hot tub, fire pit, foosball, giant Jenga, cornhole, and other games, plus a spacious loft and four bedrooms.

Camping in Wilmington VT

You know, sometimes we’d rather just pitch our tent! Vermont summers are short, so we sleep outside when we can! Here are our recommendations for camping in or near Wilmington.

Molly Stark State Park : We just returned from a trip to this beautiful park and can’t recommend it enough. The park staff was extremely helpful, dogs are welcome, there are wooded and grassy sites to choose from, and the hiking trail to the top of Mt. Olga is awesome.

The best part? Molly Stark State Park is just a short drive from everything Wilmington has to offer. You can explore all day and come home to a blazing campfire and fireflies at this beautiful mountain campground. Another plus – the bathrooms are super clean at Molly Stark State Park and showers are free.

Woodford State Park : Woodford is a few miles west of Wilmington, about halfway between Bennington and Wilmington. I’ve been singing Woodford State Park’s praises for years. Here you can score a waterfront tent site, or if rain threatens, a cabin or lean-to.

The park is always a good 10 degrees cooler than our home in Bennington, and for the most part, it’s blissfully quiet. At Woodford State Park, you’ll find hiking trails, a small beach for swimming, and canoes, kayaks, and paddleboats for rent.

Can you tell that Wilmington is one of our favorite Vermont towns? Come for a visit and I’m sure you’ll agree with me — mountains for hiking, a huge lake for swimming, and a really cute town with lots of Vermont charm.

Resources for Exploring Wilmington, Vermont

• Southern Vermont Deerfield Valley Chamber of Commerce – Located on Main Street in downtown Wilmington, Vermont, the Chamber of Commerce is a great resource for anyone hoping to visit the area. Pop in when you’re in town, and they’ll happily share their favorite tips for exploring. If you need help planning your trip, check out their website.
• Vermont State Parks – There are two state parks in or near Wilmington. Visit the Vermont State Parks website for camping and cabin reservations.
• Green Mountain National Forest Trail Map, Southern Section : A comprehensive map of the trails in the area, available at local retailers and on Amazon.
• AllTrails+: A trail finder and GPS tracker in one. If you are hiking a lot, consider purchasing AllTrails+ for $35.99 a year. This allows you to download all your GPS maps for hiking with spotty cell service (very common in Vermont).

Follow us on social media for more fun things to do in Vermont!

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.

90% of US Airbnbs in the path of totality are booked. See some prime spots for eclipse views

If you're like this reporter, you may have just heard about the total eclipse a few weeks ago. But there are many people who have been planning on traveling to the path of totality for years.

One Airbnb host told USA TODAY she received an inquiry to book her rental in Arkansas three years ago. Searches for Airbnb listings didn't peak until March 26 of this year, the company told USA TODAY in an emailed statement. But as of Thursday, 90% of Airbnbs in the path of totality in the U.S. were booked.

Overall, searches for Airbnb listings in the path of totality in North America for April 5 through April 8 were up 1,000% compared to the same weekend in 2023 , Airbnb said. Other places came online to try to fill the demand, with more than 1,000 properties joining the platform in 2024, the company said.

Some lucky travelers found a spot with a nice deck or backyard, anywhere to look up at the sky for this rare event . Here are some of those coveted spots in the path of totality we found on Airbnb:

Eclipse: Solar eclipse cloud forecast means anxiety for totality tourists hoping for clear skies

Learn more: Best travel insurance

A treehouse in Fredericksburg, Texas

This treehouse in Hill Country, Texas is one of five at The Meadow by HoneyTree , a collection of treehouse getaways designed, constructed and operated by Jacob Rhodes and his wife Katie, a native of the area.

Located in Fredericksburg, less than two hours west of Austin, these getaways have plenty of outdoor space and treehouse decks for views of the eclipse.

Rhodes told USA TODAY in an email that several of their "Treehomes" were booked out exactly one year from the eclipse, the day they became available. People booked them so quickly, one couple beat the pricing software and bypassed the holiday surcharge.

All 17 of the units between The Meadow and their second location, Blue Sage, were booked for the eclipse by the end of December. Rhodes said that is about how far out people book for Valentines Day, but these travelers paid a premium for it. Eclipse rates ranged from $650 to $1200 per night.

HoneyTree guests for the eclipse will get a pair of glasses and a sheet of fun facts put together by Rhodes's 12-year old son.

Upscale tents in Hot Springs, Arkansas

Cheryl Strack Bryson got a call three years ago from someone asking if she could book one of her upscale glamping rentals in Hot Springs, Arkansas. The event wasn't even on her radar and she declined the reservation, she told USA TODAY in an interview.

But she found plenty of other people excited to see the eclipse from one of The Covey Tents at The Nest Properties , located approximately an hour outside of Little Rock.

While she usually books three to four months out at an average nightly rate of $350, her guests for the eclipse booked eight months to a year in advance. Some are traveling from Minnesota.

Strack Bryson called Hot Springs a "funky little town" that will likely see lots of visitors with this event. But she says her guests may just want to stay put.

"I think the best place to view it from our properties is going to be the little docks that are associated with each unit and being out there on the loungers," she said. "Just sit back with your little glasses!"

A 185-year-old lighthouse in Pulaski, New York

Abe and Kathy Ellis have been running the Salmon River Lighthouse & Marina for 10 years, but are in the process of turning it over to new owners.

Typically the lighthouse and the three cabins on the property are winterized in April, but when they got their first inquiry a year in advance, they figured they would open a couple of them up for visitors. The entire lighthouse costs $400 per night Sunday through Thursday, Ellis said.

Abe Ellis told USA TODAY that he thought Lake Ontario would be the best place to view the eclipse. But at other times, visitors can venture up into the lighthouse tower.

He expects it will be busy out there, as he keeps hearing from people looking for eclipse lodging.

"Word spread fast ... in the last week I've probably received at least five more inquiries for this weekend," Ellis said. "But of course, I don't have any room!"

A lucky last-minute booking in Starksboro, Vermont

One last-minute eclipse tourist got lucky with this spot in the hills of Starksboro, Vermont, located approximately 30 minutes outside of Burlington.

Host Paul Reynolds had planned to stay in The Spring Hill House during the eclipse, so he blocked off the dates for himself. But his plans changes last minute, and he opened up the dates the Saturday before eclipse weekend, just to have it booked for Sunday and Monday within 30 minutes.

Nightly rates for this spot average around $320 on weeknights and $350 on weekends.

The small, usually tranquil state is expecting a quarter of a million visitors to see the eclipse . The northern part of the state, including Starksboro, falls in the path of totality.

Contributing: Megan Stewart; Burlington Free Press