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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

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• # 1 South Island, New Zealand
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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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• Food & Drink
• Art & Culture
• Trip Ideas & Itineraries

• PLACES TO VISIT
• Vermont Regions

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Vermont’s Top Things to See and Do

Nature’s splendor meets cultural richness at some of Vermont’s top places to see. From an early 1900s mansion with deep ties to the Lincoln family to a wild raptor rescue site nestled between mountains and in valleys, each attraction weaves a compelling narrative that captures the essence of Vermont’s beauty and heritage.  

Vermont’s Biggest Hits

Historic sites that spear the sky, the No. 1 public square in the U.S., and the state’s only national park , featuring historic buildings and miles of trails, are just some of the top things to see and do in Vermont.   

Hildene, the Lincoln Family Home

Built in 1905, the historic home and grounds of Robert and Mary Lincoln is a stronghold of American history, including an original Pullman train car and Pres. Lincoln’s stovepipe hat. 

Marsh-Billings-Rockefeller National Historical Park

Vermont’s only national park, Marsh-Billings-Rockefeller includes 25 miles of carriage roads and trails, guided hikes, and education on the Abenaki community.

Vermont Institute of Natural Science

See raptors up close, learn about Vermont’s wildlife, and see views of the Ottauquechee River from the height of a bald eagle’s nest on an accessible boardwalk.

Southern Vermont Arts Center

Internationally known artists and more local creators find exhibition space at this southern Vermont gallery.

Bennington Battle Monument

At 306 feet, Vermont’s tallest man-made monument, the Bennington Battle Monument, honors a pivotal Revolutionary War victory for soldiers from Vermont, Massachusetts, and New Hampshire.

Fairbanks Museum & Planetarium

A combination natural science museum, history museum, and Vermont’s only public planetarium. 

Billings Farm

A working farm highlighting historic Vermont agriculture with a museum, live demonstrations, farm animals, and a seasonal sunflower house.

Shelburne Museum

More than 150,000 exhibited works span 39 historic buildings on the museum’s expansive grounds.

Church Street

With more than 100 shops and restaurants, this outdoor mall was named No. 1 Public Square in America in 2022 by USA Today.

Vermont’s Beauty Spots

From the deepest lake to the highest peak, and everything in between, Vermont’s natural beauty means there’s so much to see and do outdoors.   

Colchester Causeway

Packed gravel on a narrow causeway takes riders, walkers, or wheelchair users across Lake Champlain, with a bike ferry to South Hero.

Lake Willoughby

Vermont’s deepest lake, Willoughby’s skyline is scored by the dramatic fjord-like cliffs of mounts Pisgah and Hor. 

Quechee Gorge

Vermont’s “Little Grand Canyon” plunges to 165 feet. View it from above over a bridge or hike the trails down to the water.

Mount Equinox Skyline Drive

The longest privately owned, paved toll road in the United States ascends Mount Equinox to stunning views.

Shelburne Farms

Cheesemaking, 1,400 acres of working farmland, gardens, and historic buildings, and lodging make Shelburne Farms a must-visit. 

Mount Mansfield

Vermont’s tallest peak at 4,393 feet, has hiking trails starting in Underhill and Stowe. Mountain views are also accessible from the gondolas at Stowe Mountain Resort or the nearby Auto Toll Road. 

Lamoille Valley Rail Trail

Vermont’s rail trails, fully accessible and maintained on reclaimed railroad beds, connect downtowns and offer a variety of ways to enjoy the outdoors. The Lamoille Valley Rail Trail is New England’s longest at 93 miles, connecting 18 communities.

Savor the Green Mountain State

Vermont is a leade r in maple, ice cream, cheese, and craft beer . Eat and drink your way through the green mountain terroir with some of these stops along the way .     

Ben & Jerry’s

Many people associate Vermont with Ben & Jerry’s, known worldwide for its chunky, swirly ice cream flavors and commitment to social change. Visit scoop shops or take a factory tour in Waterbury, where you can also visit the Flavor Graveyard to “pay your respects” to discontinued flavors.

Hill Farmstead Brewery

Vermont has more breweries per capita than any other state. Named Best Brewery in the World in 2018, Hill Farmstead swears by its Vermont well water as a key ingredient. Taste and sample in Greensboro.

Morse Farm Maple Sugarworks

Vermont produces more maple syrup than any other state. Visit this Montpelier sugarhouse, open to the public, to learn how pure Vermont maple is made, sample different grades, and enjoy a maple creemee.

Caledonia Spirits

From gold-medal-winning vodka to the world’s most awarded rye whiskey, Vermont’s distillers put the state on the map. Named America’s most awarded gin, Barr Hill is made with local honey by Caledonia Spirits, with a tasting room in Montpelier.

King Arthur Baking Co.

A baking school, demonstrations, a café, and retail store await at this world-famous Vermont company.

Cabot Creamery

Awarded world’s best cheddar for years, Cabot’s cheddar bolsters Vermont’s legacy as a cheese destination. Shop and sample at the Waterbury store.

Time-Honored Celebrations

Vermont Signature Events

Vermont beckons travelers with a vibrant tapestry of fairs, festivals, and concerts. Immerse yourself in the rich cultural heritage of the state at signature events showcasing local craftsmanship to outdoor concerts with mountain peaks as the backdrop and street celebrations that bring out the whole town .   

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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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The 11 best things to do in Vermont

Vermont might be famous for green mountains and ice-cream, but there's plenty more of this state to discover

Don't underestimate Vermont. The state has made its name as an incredible destination for its for its  forested natural beauty, majestic green mountains, scenic hiking trails and destination-worthy skiing. But if you're headed there? There's a hell of a lot more to check out on your visit. 

Think small farms, beer tours and cheese factories. Think farmers markets and museums galore. We even named Vermont's Burlington as one of the most underrated travel destinations in the whole world in March 2023. Ready to explore history, culture and Vermont's ever-growing food scene? Here are the best things to do in Vermont.

RECOMMENDED: 🌆 The most beautiful cities in the USA 🏛️ The best tourist attractions in the USA 🏞️ The best national parks in the USA 🏠  The best hotels in Vermont

This guide was written by  Gerrish Lopez . At Time Out, all of our travel guides are written by local writers who know their cities inside out. For more about how we curate, see our  editorial guideline s . 

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Best things to do in Vermont

1.  Bennington Battle Monument

Vermont’s tallest structure, a  300-plus foot stone obelisk commemorating the Battle of Bennington during the American Revolutionary War, is also its most popular state historic site. You’ll get fabulous views when you climb to the top, and you’ll learn how an ill-equipped New England militia defeated the British soldiers. There are several events held at the monument, including a reenactment and celebration on Bennington Battle Day in August. 

2.  Simon Pearce Quechee Store

Set in a restored 19th-century mill and hydro-electrically powered by the Ottauquechee River, Simon Pearce’s showroom in Quechee is an idyllic setting for browsing his glass and pottery works. In the basement is the workshop, where you’ll see craftsmen in action, blowing the glass pieces for sale above. Be sure to have a meal at the restaurant overlooking the falls - the menu is brimming with local products and ingredients. 

3.  Take a Brewery Tour

Put together your own tour of the state ’ s top breweries, or head to Burlington to take an organized tour. In addition to edible delights, Vermont produces some of the best craft beer in the Northeast. You’ll find concentrations of craft breweries (plus distilleries and artisan purveyors) in many parts of the state including Stowe, Burlington, and Middlebury. 

4.  Covered Bridges

The Covered Bridges are mostly mid-19th century wooden bridges dotting the landscape throughout the state. Bridge-loving photographers rejoice: Vermont has more than 100 covered bridges, more per square mile than any other U.S. state. Middlebury is home to the oldest - Pulp Mill Bridge from 1820. Bennington has five within a short drive. The others are well-marked on road maps. The crown jewel, however, is the Windsor-Cornish Covered Bridge. Drive it from Vermont to New Hampshire over the Connecticut River and experience the longest two-span covered bridge (465 feet) in the world. 

5.  Hildene, The Lincoln Family Home

This is the former summer home of Abe Lincoln’s son, featuring Lincoln memorabilia and more. This Georgian Revival estate in Manchester is more than just a beautiful, 24-room historic mansion. Inside, you’ll find original family furnishings, one of President Lincoln’s famous top hats, and an intricate pipe organ. The grounds include a working dairy farm, gardens and research-focused greenhouses, a restored 1903 Pullman train car, a pollinator sanctuary, and a boardwalk through the property’s preserved wetlands.

6.  Ben & Jerry’s Factory Tour

Ben & Jerry’s hippie vibe and social consciousness is a product of its Vermont roots. Find out more about the company ’ s origins on a tour of the factory in Waterbury. Learn how they make their amazing ice cream, then sample whatever flavors are being made that day. Pass through the Flavor Graveyard, where actual headstones honor retired flavors. Be sure to pick up a tie-dye t-shirt and other far out souvenirs in the funky gift shop. 

7.  Shelburne Museum

The Shelburne houses more than 150,000 works, including Impressionist paintings, quilts, furniture, and 17th- to 20th-century artifacts. The museum is comprised of 39 different buildings, 25 of which are historic and were moved to the property. You’ll also see vintage wagons, a lighthouse, and beautiful gardens as you stroll the property. There are plenty of events, talks, and workshops throughout the year. Spend all day here and get lost in this diverse collection of art and objects. 

8.  Cabot Creamery Visitor Center

Wanna get cheesy? This 1000-farm dairy cooperative produces some of the world’s best cheddar. An informative video tour is available for real enthusiasts, but the highlight is tasting the full range of Cabot’s regular cheeses and dips plus samplings of limited edition cheddars and a range of artisan products from Vermont. 

9.  Brattleboro Farmers Market

This weekly farmers market features more than 50 vendors selling Vermont’s finest local foods. Taste all the delicious bounty that Vermont has to offer, from cheese, maple syrup, veggies and fruit to free-range lamb and beef. Everything at the market is fresh and local. Find homemade breads, pastries, and other prepared dishes while you enjoy music and people watching. Bonus Vermont points: it’s located next to the historic Creamery Covered Bridge. 

10.  Billings Farm

Established in 1871 by Frederick Billings as a model of sustainability, Billings Farm offers a unique way to experience Vermont’s rural history and heritage. Home to more than 60 Jersey cows, it’s a working farm, and visitors can participate in farm chores while learning agricultural history and land stewardship. With daily activities like ‘Meet Our Sheep’ and ‘Intro to Milking’, you’ll get an up close and personal look at farm life. Reward yourself with a visit to the Dairy Bar for fresh cheese and ice cream. 

11.  Rock of Ages

This is the world’s largest deep-hole, dimension granite quarry. Watch from a distance as massive blocks of granite are extracted from the quarry. It’s a stunning visual, with towering granite walls and milky green pools - an alien landscape used as a filming location for a Star Trek movie. Take a self-guided tour through the plant and you’ll see the granite transformed from giant blocks into gravestones and statuary. Check out the granite bowling alley (just the lane is granite, not the balls or pins), then pick up a chunk of scrap granite as a souvenir. 

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@timeouttravel Named by us as one of the world’s most underrated travel destinations, Burlington, Vermont is fast becoming one of the USA’s unmissable food and drink hotspots. This is how to spend a perfect 24 hours in the university city. #burlington #traveltiktok #vermont #timeouttravel ♬ original sound - Time Out Travel

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THE 10 BEST Things to Do in Vermont

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Day Tour through Stowe, Vermont

Burlington Signature Guided Brewery Tour

Brewery & Spirits Tour

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• 20 Must Visit Attractions In...

Must-Visit Attractions in Vermont

Tour books of Vermont will immediately hone in on the industriousness of its independent citizens, who live encircled by mountains in rural splendor. Such things are true about Vermont. But if you’re visiting the Green Mountain state and hoping to peel back the layers to see its unique cultural heritage, we’ve got you covered with our 20 favorite attractions.

Did you know – Culture Trip now does bookable, small-group trips? Pick from authentic, immersive Epic Trips , compact and action-packed Mini Trips and sparkling, expansive Sailing Trips .

Covered Bridges

If covered bridges are on your list of must-sees then you could do no better than those in Vermont’s Bennington County, where every stream crossing seems to be under wooden eaves. Most are in the state’s southeastern corner, including the 88-foot-long Silk Road Bridge, which spans the Walloomsac River and dates from 1840.

Their ubiquitous presence in gas station walk-ins and bodega freezers may make you think Ben & Jerry’s has always been around, but this iconic ice cream maker started in Vermont in 1978. The tour tells the story of how the founders met, conceived their dream and built their ice cream empire. Samples of whatever the factory is making at that moment are available, as are fresh cones. Afterwards you can tour the flavor graveyard, where retired concoctions are put to rest.

Billings Farm & Museum and Marsh-Billings-Rockefeller National Historical Park

It’s easy to sing the praises of Vermont’s dairy and Billings Farm is a living reminder of how it got there. A practicing commercial cow operation, the farm is fun for kids, while the nearby national park offers scenic hiking and cross-country skiing trails through the state’s backwoods for adults.

Cabot Creamery

Speaking of dairy pedigrees, Vermont’s Cabot Creamery—in operation since the close of the First World War—has been a household name in the world of cheese for generations. Although the creamery tours are no longer being offered, you can still sample scores of cheeses, sour cream, and dips, from store-shelf classics to hard-to-find, aged cheddars at the visitors’ center.

President Calvin Coolidge State Historic Site

The Coolidge Homestead pays homage to the lifelong home of America’s 30th president, who took the oath of office in August 1923. Sworn in as commander in chief in the light of a kerosene lamp just hours after President Harding’s death, Coolidge was famed for his taciturn manner (nicknamed “Silent Cal”) and thriftiness, symbolizing stability during the social upheaval of the Roaring Twenties. Today you can visit his boyhood home and the estate’s buildings, considered traditional even for the times.

VINS Nature Center and Quechee Gorge

At 165 feet deep, Vermont’s glacier-carved “Little Grand Canyon” draws hundreds of thousands of visitors every year to take in the breathtaking views. Quechee Gorge—a narrowing of the Ottauquechee River—once created employment for hundreds of wool-mill workers, and today offers hiking, camping, and fishing opportunities.

Shelburne Museum

More complex than a single museum, Shelburne hosts some of the country’s most diverse examples of paintings, folk arts, quilts, and textiles dedicated to eclectic Americana. From glass canes to carriages and Impressionist paintings, there are more than 150,000 works spanning 39 buildings at the museum—as much a display of art as a testament to Vermont’s natural beauty and cultural history.

Rock of Ages

One of the world’s largest quarries, Rock of Ages put Vermont on the map as the premiere source for granite. The size of the quarry is hard to grasp: though exposed rock extends for hundreds of feet above the turquoise waters, the shafts plummet still some 600 feet below. Still operated, you can see the quarry and take a tour of the granite plant, where huge chunks of stone are moved, hewed, cut, polished, and engraved for gravestones.

Bennington Battle Monument

Built to commemorate the 1777 Battle of Bennington —considered the turning point of the Revolutionary War—the monument is a 306-foot stone obelisk and also the tallest structure in Vermont. While the actual battle may have occurred some 10 miles away in New York (the stone comes from New York too), don’t let history spoil the views from the observation level at 200-feet, reached by elevator.

Hildene: The Lincoln Family Home

The Lincoln Family home may have only been the summer retreat for Todd (the president’s only offspring to survive childhood) and Mary to escape the heat of Washington D.C., but it’s no less stunning for that. The mansion is furnished with the family’s furniture, containing artifacts from Todd and his father. Outside the building, visitors can stroll the stately gardens, which overlook the Battenkill Valley, or walk through hundreds of acres of meadows and wetlands.

Woodstock Inn

Started as a tavern in 1793, today’s Woodstock Inn was one of the first buildings in the town and remains one of its stateliest. The building’s classic design and elegant historical preservation give it a timeless feel, perfect inspiration for exploring the town’s charming shops and restaurants. Room rates vary whether the suite comes with amenities like fireplace (perfect for banishing the chill after skiing the nearby slopes), and the inn has a restaurant and on-site spa.

University of Vermont Morgan Horse Farm

Established in 1878, this working horse farm gave the world Morgan horses, one of the first breeds exclusively developed in the U.S. With the vast majority of Morgan horses owing their lineage to this 215-acre ranch located just outside Middlebury, the farm is open to the public and is a must-visit for horse-lovers looking to experience living history.

Tallest Filing Cabinet on Earth

This 38-drawer monument to organization may be one of several such structures claiming to be the world’s tallest, but located just outside funky Burlington, it’s a must-see for fans of odd attractions. Built in 2002 by a local artist, each drawer in the structure represents the number of years of paperwork that the artist gathered while designing it. The piece is a commentary on the bureaucratic mess associated with a 50-plus year delay to a roadway meant to link downtown Burlington with the interstate.

Mount Mansfield

A trip to the Green Mountain State without visiting the eponymous tectonic features would be incomplete, so trek to Mount Mansfield , Vermont’s tallest. In addition to hiking, there’s great views of Lake Champlain and New York’s Adirondacks, alpine ecosystems and great skiing from a number of resorts.

Also known as the Rudyard Kipling House—the same man who wrote The Jungle Book— Naulahka is a shingle-roof, three-story house that’s been converted into a vacation rental with room for eight. Kipling in fact wrote The Jungle Book in his library here, and the house is named after a precious Indian jewel, which was the source of inspiration for another one of his works. After a falling out with his neighbor, Kipling left in 1896, and the home was eventually sold to a preservation trust.

Lake Champlain

Lake islands, shoreline, sunsets, sailing, camping, fishing and beaches. For generations Vermont has lived on the shores of its largest lake, which stretches from New York to the west and north to Quebec. Cyclists from Burlington stride headlong along a disused rail corridor above its waters, the sixth largest in the nation, while regular ferries from Burlington and other points offer hours of fresh air.

Vermont State House

Like the rest of Vermont, this elegant Greek Revival structure in Montpelier, home to the state’s lawmakers, seems to suddenly pop from the mountainous woods surrounding it. Vermont’s State House , the third such building on the same site, was built in the late 1850s and is one of the nation’s oldest and best-preserved capitol buildings. You can walk around yourself or take seasonal guided tours offered daily except Sunday. Highlights include period portraits, stained glass bearing the state’s coat of arms, and original furnishings, still in use.

Church Street in Burlington

No trip to Vermont is incomplete without a stay in Burlington, its biggest (but not capital) city. With a well-deserved reputation as the epicenter for the offbeat and independent, Burlington is an artistic nerve center for the state and entire northeast. Walking around pretty Church Street shows that funky feeling in full force, from Vermont’s farm-to-table restaurants to its craft beer concoctions and artisans selling their wares.

Everything Robert Frost

Perhaps America’s most famous poet, at the height of his celebrity Robert Frost lived in Vermont, calling the Green Mountain state home for four decades. Much of his verse was written while Frost lived in a log cabin on a 150-acre farm in Ripton, where visitors today can tour the National Historic Landmark. Elsewhere in Shaftsbury, Bennington College owns the Robert Frost Stone House , a museum dedicated to the home where Frost won the first of his four Pulitzer Prizes. And Frost is buried in the cemetery at the Old First Church in Bennington, where his tombstone reads, “I had a lover’s quarrel with the world.”

The Alchemist

No visit to Vermont would be incomplete without a stop to sample its legendary brews, and no brewer enjoys as much fame perhaps anywhere in the country as the Alchemist . Inexplicable to the uninitiated, this mecca to suds has inspired a fervent following, and the brewery’s signature beer, Heady Topper, is considered perhaps the best example of an IPA in the world and alone draws thousands of visitors every year for a can, only sold in-state.

Since you are here, we would like to share our vision for the future of travel - and the direction Culture Trip is moving in.

Culture Trip launched in 2011 with a simple yet passionate mission: to inspire people to go beyond their boundaries and experience what makes a place, its people and its culture special and meaningful — and this is still in our DNA today. We are proud that, for more than a decade, millions like you have trusted our award-winning recommendations by people who deeply understand what makes certain places and communities so special.

Increasingly we believe the world needs more meaningful, real-life connections between curious travellers keen to explore the world in a more responsible way. That is why we have intensively curated a collection of premium small-group trips as an invitation to meet and connect with new, like-minded people for once-in-a-lifetime experiences in three categories: Culture Trips, Rail Trips and Private Trips. Our Trips are suitable for both solo travelers, couples and friends who want to explore the world together.

Culture Trips are deeply immersive 5 to 16 days itineraries, that combine authentic local experiences, exciting activities and 4-5* accommodation to look forward to at the end of each day. Our Rail Trips are our most planet-friendly itineraries that invite you to take the scenic route, relax whilst getting under the skin of a destination. Our Private Trips are fully tailored itineraries, curated by our Travel Experts specifically for you, your friends or your family.

We know that many of you worry about the environmental impact of travel and are looking for ways of expanding horizons in ways that do minimal harm - and may even bring benefits. We are committed to go as far as possible in curating our trips with care for the planet. That is why all of our trips are flightless in destination, fully carbon offset - and we have ambitious plans to be net zero in the very near future.

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48 Fun Things To Do & Places To Visit In Vermont

By: Author Jerric Chong

Posted on Published: June 7, 2021  - Last updated: October 17, 2023

Cabins in the woods.

Colorful autumn leaves.

All of the maple syrup that you can eat.

These are just a few of the selling points of Vermont, a northeastern state with tons to offer in terms of natural beauty, delicious eats and wonderful opportunities for sightseeing and connecting with nature.

Other great things about Vermont include its history and culture as a New England state.

Originally part of the 13 colonies, it was discovered in the 1500s and settled shortly thereafter, leaving a long legacy that is often marveled at by today’s travelers.

If you’re looking for fun places to go, Vermont has those as well!

From malls to movie theaters to ice cream factories, it’s filled with tourist attractions that will delight everyone from solo backpackers to family vacations with kids.

Are you ready to start exploring the Green Mountain State just like its original settlers did?

Table of Contents

1. Vermont Teddy Bear Factory

Alexander Sviridov / Shutterstock

Despite its majestic mountains, one of the most popular places to visit in Vermont has nothing to do with the outdoors.

It’s actually the Vermont Teddy Bear Factory .

Originally a one-man operation with a guy selling teddy bears at a farmer’s market, the factory is now a gigantic, multi-level facility that ships out more than 500,000 stuffed animals each year.

They’re special because each one is uniquely customized to the orderer, resulting in a huge variety of bears.

To add to the charm, they’re shipped in boxes that contain “breathing holes” that keep the magic alive!

If you want your own taste of the magic, schedule a tour of the factory.

You can watch the bears being built, customized, repaired or assembled from scratch.

You can also create your own as a keepsake souvenir.

Whether you’re a parent with kids or just a kid at heart yourself, you’ll love a trip to the Vermont Teddy Bear Factory.

It’ll be a soft and cuddly tourist experience for folks of all ages.

Address: 6655 Shelburne Rd, Shelburne, VT 05482, United States

2. Church Street Marketplace

Sean Pavone / Shutterstock

You can’t visit Vermont without a trip to the Church Street Marketplace .

Covering four entire blocks, it’s home to more than 80 businesses that range from hat makers to nail salons, and it the place to see and be seen in the city of Burlington .

There’s always something going on at the marketplace.

There are festivals and food tastings; there are art shows and street musicians.

There are also all of the shops, cafes, bistros and vendor stalls that you’d expect from a bustling retail space.

Are you feeling peckish?

Grab a gelato from a food truck.

Do you like history?

Take a stroll through historic neighborhoods with colonial-style townhouses.

Are you looking for unique things to do?

Spend an afternoon browsing old vinyls at an antique record shop or playing Space Invaders at a vintage arcade.

There’s something for everyone at the Church Street Marketplace.

It’s one of the top destinations of Vermont, so if you’ll be anywhere near the Burlington area during your trip, make sure to stop by.

Address: 2 Church St Suite 2A, Burlington, VT 05401, United States

3. Ben and Jerry’s Factory Tour and Ice Cream Shop

Jay Yuan / Shutterstock

You know Ben and Jerry’s.

Everyone knows Ben and Jerry’s.

But have you ever stopped to wonder where Chunky Monkey actually comes from?

The answer is “Waterbury, Vermont.”

It’s the location of the very first Ben and Jerry’s factory, and it’s still operational today.

Visitors can take tours, sample flavors and shop for treats and souvenirs that extend far beyond ice cream cones.

Other, lesser-known attractions include things like the “Flavor Graveyard,” a hilariously elaborate cemetery with headstones bearing the names of flavors that were retired from circulation.

RIP, Turtle Soup!

You don’t have to be an ice cream lover to enjoy a trip to Ben and Jerry’s Factory Tour and Ice Cream Shop .

It’s a genuine piece of history, especially Vermont history, and the cold chocolatey desserts are just a bonus.

Address: 1281 Waterbury-Stowe Road, VT-100, Waterbury Village Historic District, VT 05676, United States

4. Billings Farm and Museum

Reimar / Shutterstock

Located in Woodstock, Vermont, the Billings Farm and Museum is one of the major places of interest in the state.

Not only is it a “living history” museum where you can experience hands-on tours and demonstrations of colonial life, but it’s also a destination where you can enjoy cool and unique activities such as churning butter by hand or petting a dairy cow or barnyard goat.

Visitors of all ages should appreciate the 18th century charm of the large, outdoor farm space.

It really doesn’t seem like a museum at all.

If you bring your kids, they won’t even realize that they’re learning new things as they walk around the fields and giggle over the sheep, chickens and draft horses.

Inside the barn, you’ll find an impressive collection of objects and artifacts that detail life in the early days of Vermont.

From photographs to oral history tales, there’s a little something for all history buffs.

Consider a trip to the Billings Farm and Museum if you’re looking for fun things to do in Vermont that will also give you a deeper feel for both the state and the people who once toiled its lands.

Address: 69 Old River Rd, Woodstock, VT 05091, United States

5. Blue Paddle Bistro

Blue Paddle Bistro

It would be a crime to visit the northeast without trying northeastern seafood, so pull up a chair at the Blue Paddle Bistro and dig in.

It’s famous for its tasty and freshly-caught seafood dishes, including tuna, salmon, scallops and crab cakes.

You’ll also get a touch of Vermont in most menu items.

The rib-eye steak, for example, is served alongside mashed potatoes flavored with Vermont cheddar cheese.

The sea scallops come with a pan sear and a glaze of Vermont maple chili.

Dine-in visitors will enjoy a cozy setting dominated by wooden fixtures and indigenous framed artwork on the walls.

Takeout is also available, and while you’ll miss the ambiance of the restaurant, you’ll still get the same great flavors in every order.

When your stomach is rumbling in South Hero, Vermont, there’s only one place that you should go.

The Blue Paddle Bistro will satisfy your taste buds while also serving uniquely Vermont dishes that you can’t get anywhere else.

Address: 316 US-2, South Hero, VT 05486, United States

6. Knight’s Spider Web Farm

Knight’s Spider Web Farm

The Knight’s Spider Web Farm is one of the most interesting places to visit in Vermont, but it definitely isn’t for the faint of heart.

As you might have guessed from the name, the “spider web farm” is dedicated to spiders.

However, it isn’t just a place where these creepy-crawlies are raised.

They’re encouraged to spin their webs in square wooden frames, which are then preserved in a special kind of lacquer and sold as art.

If this sounds uncommon, it is.

Knight’s Spider Web Farm is the only one of its kind in the entire world.

It’s also a one-man operation run by an elderly gentleman who calls himself “Spiderwebman,” so it’s got a kitschy kind of charm in addition to a fun story and a collection of utterly unique souvenirs.

If you’re wondering what to do to make unforgettable memories in Vermont, it doesn’t get any cooler or weirder than Knight’s Spider Web Farm.

Address: 124 Spider Web Farm Rd, Williamstown, VT 05679, United States

7. Pond Hill Ranch Pro Rodeo Company

appaIoosa / flickr

You don’t have to travel to the Midwest to enjoy an authentic, down-home rodeo.

The Pond Hill Ranch Pro Rodeo Company will give you a bellyful of dirt, dust, steers and spurs right in the heart of Vermont!

Held every Saturday, these rodeo shows are the real deal.

They’re sanctioned by the Professional Rodeo Organization (PRO), and events include everything from calf roping and steer wrestling to barrel racing and bull riding.

There’s also saddle and bareback bronc riding for multiple kinds of edge-of-your-seat action!

Despite the excitement, however, the rodeos are very family-friendly.

You’ll find tons of parents and kids crammed onto the stadium benches.

You can even come back on weekdays for the ranch’s all-ages horseback riding lessons.

If you love the rodeo, you won’t want to miss the Pond Hill Ranch Pro Rodeo Company.

It’s a Midwestern experience in a New England setting, and that’s rare enough to justify a visit all on its own.

Address: 1683 Pond Hill Rd, Castleton, VT 05735, United States

8. Vermont Historical Society Museum

Don Shall / flickr

Do you want to learn more about the great state of Vermont?

Check out the Vermont Historical Society Museum .

Located in Montpelier, the capital of Vermont, this museum celebrates just about everything related to the Green Mountain State and its history.

There are exhibits about food, fashion, flora, fauna and more.

You can look at real military coats from the Revolutionary War; you can marvel at stuffed taxidermy animals that originally lived near the Winooski River.

The museum also plays host to a number of special events, including low- and no-cost ones that are open to the public.

You don’t have to have a big budget to enjoy them.

If you’re looking for free things to do in Montpelier, the museum might be a good option for you.

All things considered, the Vermont Historical Society Museum is a must visit for anyone interested in what makes Vermont unique.

There’s tons of stuff to do and even more to see.

You’ll have a grand old time.

Address: 109 State St, Montpelier, VT 05609, United States

9. Vermont Institute of Natural Science Nature Center

Vermont Institute of Natural Science Nature Center

Have you always wanted a hawk to land on your outstretched arm?

Do you think it’d be the coolest thing ever to take a selfie with an owl?

Such things are possible at the Vermont Institute of Natural Science (VINS) Nature Center .

Though it primarily functions as an environmental organization, it’s most famous for its avian rehabilitation, and visitors come from all over the country to see its hawks, raptors, eagles, owls and songbirds.

Take a canopy walk and see the birds flying across the tops of the trees.

Watch a demonstration to observe how they’re fed and handled.

You can even visit the meadows and other outdoor habitats to see additional critters such as turtles and snakes.

Whether you’re a long-term animal lover or just a curious traveler who’d like to see the raptors up close, the Vermont Institute of Natural Science Nature Center is one of the niftiest places to visit in Vermont.

Soar to its location as soon as you can!

Address: 149 Natures Way, Quechee, VT 05059, United States

10. Ethan Allen Homestead

lunita lu / flickr

Spend enough time in Vermont and you’ll eventually hear the name Ethan Allen.

He was a patriot and politician back in the 1700s who defended Vermont by both word and deed, and he’s revered among the locals.

Vermont even celebrates “Ethan Allen Day” on June 23 every year.

The Ethan Allen Homestead isn’t the largest or grandest of Vermont’s attractions.

In fact, it’s quite modest: It’s just a simple 1.5-story house built in the traditional square colonial style of its time.

Inside, however, you’ll see that the building has been converted into a museum, and it boasts many relics from the 17000s.

Your tour guide will also have a ton of stories about Ethan Allen and the impact that he had on the survival of Vermont.

Check out the Ethan Allen Homestead for a real piece of local history.

It’s humble, but much like the state itself, it has a rich depth of character for those who care enough to look closer.

Address: 1 Ethan Allen Homestead, Burlington, VT 05408, United States

11. Coolidge State Park

Magicpiano , CC BY-SA 3.0 , via Wikimedia Commons

Vermont is one of the most beautiful states in the US , and when you’re gazing down a tree-covered valley and breathing in the fresh, clean air of Coolidge State Park , you’ll understand why.

Coolidge State Park is the largest of the region’s parks, and it offers many fun activities for locals and travelers alike.

You can camp, fish, hike, bike, picnic, sightsee and more.

It doesn’t matter when you go, either; there are things to see in both summertime and wintertime.

Accommodations are available right there in the park.

The most famous are the “lean-tos,” or the wooden log cabin constructions built right into the mountain that overlook the countryside below.

How many times in your life can you say that you’ve watched the sunrise from a lean-to?

Coolidge State Park is a must see destination in Vermont.

Whether you’re looking for unique experiences or just a chance to escape the grind and enjoy the sights and sounds of nature, this is a place where you can get them.

Address: 855 Coolidge State Park Rd, Plymouth, VT 05056, United States

12. Vermont Antique Mall

Vermont Antique Mall

Located in the picturesque Quechee Gorge Village, the Vermont Antique Mall is a series of booths and stalls housed within an old-fashioned wooden barn.

It covers 17,000 square feet, so there’s plenty of room to move, but it’s still cozy enough to have a charming vintage feel.

Inside, the booths are stacked with all kinds of odds and ends.

You can find everything from vintage collectibles to beautiful homemade crafts and trinkets.

Food is everywhere; staples include cheeses, jams and syrups, but there are plenty of other treats to enjoy as well, including a locally famous fudge.

The mall also hosts a number of special events, so if you visit at the right time of year, you might be able to enjoy a scenic train ride or a wine tasting event.

You might even be able to pet some alpacas!

The Vermont Antique Mall is one of the best places to see in Vermont.

It might not be one of the most famous of Vermont’s attractions, but it gets rave reviews every year from people who stumble across it.

Are you going to be one of them?

Address: 5573 Woodstock Rd, Quechee, VT 05059, United States

13. Mount Mansfield

julie deshaies / Shutterstock

Viewed from the side, Mount Mansfield looks just like a man’s profile.

There are bumps for the forehead, nose and chin as well as a small ridge for an Adam’s apple and two close-set lines for lips.

The chin is the highest peak on the mountain, and it’s often what people refer to when they talk about “Mount Mansfield.”

It towers over the rocks below at more than 4,393 feet tall.

You can climb the summit if you’re brave enough. You can also take a scenic drive that winds its way through trees and ponds.

The roads are closed sometimes because of things like mud slides, but as long as you check in advance and fill up your tank, you should be able to enjoy your air conditioner all the way to the top.

Mount Mansfield is one of the most fun things to do in Vermont, and as a bonus, it’ll give you a cool story for when you get home.

You can honestly tell your friends that you stood on a man’s chin!

Address: VT, United States

14. Brattleboro Farmer’s Market

Brattleboro Farmer’s Market

The Brattleboro Farmer’s Market is a bit of a misnomer.

While it does offer produce from local vendors, it’s more of a flea market or outdoor thrift shop than anything else.

There are dozens of vendors lining the block, and their booths are bright, colorful and stuffed to the brim with everything from homemade bracelets to hand-stitched quilts.

There’s a healthy aspect to the market, too.

In addition to the guilty pleasure stalls that offer cider donuts and maple syrups by the gallon, there are also granola bakers, organic fruit vendors and gluten-free food trucks.

Everyone is very friendly, and the vibe is just as awesome as the goods.

Long story short, you’ll have a great time at the Brattleboro Farmer’s Market.

If you’re looking for cool places to go in ‘boro, wait for the weekend and hit it up!

Address: 570 Western Ave, West Brattleboro, VT 05301, United States

15. East Corinth

Brian A Wolf / Shutterstock

Beetlejuice, Beetlejuice, Beetlejuice!

If you’ve seen this 1988 classic, you’ll recognize the town of East Corinth.

While the movie is said to have taken place in Connecticut, it was actually filmed in Vermont.

East Corinth is just one of the seven villages that make up the greater Corinth area.

All of them have the quaint countryside look from the movie, so they’re filled with general stores, covered bridges, mom-and-pop shops and old-fashioned post offices.

You won’t find Corinth mentioned in a lot of travel guides.

It’s a quieter kind of tourist attraction, so don’t expect grandeur.

If you’re just passing through, however, or if you’re a movie buff who likes visiting film locations, East Corinth can be a pleasant place to spend an afternoon.

The locals are friendly folk, so if you mention that you’re an out-of-towner, they should be more than happy to guide you to the famous site seeing destinations of the area.

You won’t be the first Tim Burton fan to visit Corinth!

Address: 74-224 Jewell Ln, Corinth, VT 05040, United States

16. Get Air Trampoline Park

Ninafotoart / Shutterstock

Vermont is known for its natural beauty, but there are days when the weather isn’t ideal for outdoor events and activities.

What can you do when you’re forced indoors?

One idea is to hit up the Get Air Trampoline Park .

Located in Williston, Vermont, it’s an indoor recreation center with oodles of fun games and activities, so it’ll be a great way to burn off some energy with the kids while you’re in town.

Jump on the trampolines.

Dive into the foam pits.

Play games of dodgeball or slamball.

There’s even a ninja obstacle course if you think that you have what it takes to climb walls, scale monkey bars and clamber across nets and inclined slopes.

Bad weather doesn’t have to ruin your Vermont vacation.

If you’re wondering what to do or where to go on a rainy day, just make a detour to Get Air Trampoline Park.

Rain or shine, it’ll provide tons of adrenaline-soaked adventures!

Address: 25 Omega Dr, Williston, VT 05495, United States

17. The Lincoln Family Home

Also known as “Hildene,” an old English word meaning “hill and valley with stream,” the Lincoln Family Home is a gigantic mansion that sits on a beautiful hilltop overlooking a valley.

Like you might have guessed from the name, it was also home to a famous family: Abraham Lincoln’s oldest son Robert Todd Lincoln and his wife Mary Harlan Lincoln.

Totaling more than 400 acres overall, the Lincoln “home” is actually an entire collection of houses, gardens, barns, carriage spaces and other buildings.

There’s an observatory where the Lincolns used telescopes to view the night sky; there’s a dairy-milking facility where they used to get fresh ingredients for colonial breakfasts.

The main mansion is also a must see in terms of Vermont attractions.

It was constructed in a Georgian Revival style in the early 1900s, and taking a tour through its wide hallways will transport you right back in time.

There’s even an old-fashioned pipe organ in one of its rooms!

If you’re looking for cool and unique things to do in Vermont, it’s hard to top the Lincoln Family Home.

You literally can’t find it anywhere else in the US.

Robert Todd Lincoln only ever lived here.

Address: 1005 Hildene Rd, Manchester, VT 05255, United States

18. Canteen Creemee Company

Canteen Creemee Company

A “creemee” is a special kind of ice cream that most people won’t recognize outside of Vermont.

It’s basically soft serve with a higher fat content that gives it an extra depth and fullness of flavor.

It’s a staple of the state, so whether you’re dining at an expensive restaurant or hailing a food truck outside of a music festival or farmer’s market, be prepared to see creemee on the menu.

If you’re looking for creemees in the Waitsfield area, you’ll want to visit the Canteen Creemee Company .

It serves gigantic portions of sweet, ice-cold creemees, and they range from traditional chocolate and vanilla cones to crazy confections that include everything from maple syrup twists to cotton candy sugar crystals.

Other menu items include burgers, hot dogs and fried chicken.

You can order an entire meal and not just dessert!

Don’t leave Vermont without hitting up a creemee stand.

It’s something that you have to try at least once.

Years from now, when you mention to someone that you vacationed in Vermont, it’s very likely that they’ll ask, “Did you try a creeeme?”

Address: 5123 Main St, Waitsfield, VT 05673, United States

19. Texas Falls

Jonathan Clough / Shutterstock

Despite the name, Texas Falls isn’t located in Texas .

It’s actually nestled deep within the cliffs of Hancock, Vermont.

Formed roughly 12,000 years ago when the last of the glaciers receded from the rock, Texas Falls is a small but powerful waterfall that gushes year round.

There are several ways to reach it, but they’ll require putting on your hiking boots and roughing it, so be prepared for a challenge.

The effort is worth it.

Texas Fall is one of the most beautiful places to visit in Vermont, especially in the autumn when the colorful leaves of the trees frame the cliffs.

The only reason that it isn’t a top feature in travel guides is because it simply isn’t well-known outside of the state.

If you like hidden gems, however, Texas Falls is a must do in Vermont.

It’s an outstanding example of natural beauty formed by the dual power of nature and history.

Address: Hancock, VT 05748, United States

20. Saxtons River Distillery

Saxtons River Distillery

The only thing better than alcohol is maple syrup, and at the Saxtons River Distillery , you can indulge in both!

While best known for their spirits, the distillery also produces a wide range of syrups, many of which go right back into the spirits.

Some of their most famous creations include things like Sapling Maple Bourbon and Sapling Maple Liqueur Reserve.

Visitors to the distillery can take tours, enjoy samples and have a bite to eat at the on-site restaurant and bar.

It boasts an inviting, wide-open space where many parties are held.

If you’re interested in making a reservation, feel free to call anytime during business hours.

The Saxtons River Distillery is one of the top places to see in Vermont.

You don’t even have to be a big drinker to enjoy it; it’ll get you buzzed on the atmosphere just as much as the cocktails.

Swing by and enjoy a taste!

Address: 155 Chickering Dr, Brattleboro, VT 05301, United States

21. Shelburne Farms

vermontalm / Shutterstock

Have you ever wondered why Vermont is called the Green Mountain State?

It comes from the French words for “green” (vert) and “mountain” (mont).

In more practical terms, however, it’s one of the most accurate descriptions for tourist attractions like Shelburne Farms .

Rolling across vibrantly green hills under wide expanses of clear blue sky, Shelburne Farms is a gorgeous destination for nature lovers.

There are a number of walking paths that you can take around the property, and they’ll offer sightseeing opportunities without cars, phones, fluorescent lights or other city distractions.

The farm itself is also worth a visit.

In addition to the dairy barns and livestock pens, there are inns, cabins and restaurants where you can sleep under the trill of birdsong or try genuine Vermont cheddar and maple syrup.

Shelburne Farms is a strong contender for the most beautiful place in Vermont.

You definitely won’t want to miss it.

Address: 1611 Harbor Rd, Shelburne, VT 05482, United States

22. Old Round Church

Harold Stiver / Shutterstock

The Old Round Church is one of the rarest churches in the world.

You might not look at its small size and beaten-up white walls and think that it’s anything special, but you’d be wrong.

It’s one of the last remaining “round churches” in the world.

Actually shaped like a 16-sided polygon, the church is an architectural oddity, and no one is quite sure why it was built this way back in 1812.

Some say that it was symbolically significant because a circular church leaves the devil no corners to hide in.

Others say that it was the result of multiple feuding factions in the town coming to a compromise: Rather than building separate churches for the Baptists, Methodists, Congregationalists and Universalists, all of them could come together in a single house of worship.

Regardless of its origins, the Old Round Church is definitely a sight to behold, and it’s a historic one to boot.

Very few round churches are still standing.

This landmark can be considered one of the most uncommon places to visit in Vermont!

Address: 29 Round Church Rd, Richmond, VT 05477, United States

23. Robert Frost Interpretive Trail

Robert Frost Interpretive Trail

Even if you’re an avid hiker, you’ve probably never seen anything like the Robert Frost Interpretive Trail .

Not only does it offer beautiful sightseeing in the fields of Ripton, Vermont, but it’s also dotted with plaques of poetry from Robert Frost!

The trail itself is an easy, 1.2 mile loop, so it’s suitable for folks of all ages.

It doesn’t matter if you’re taking a leisurely walk with your stroller or warming up for an epic triathlon; the trail is neat, clean and well-marked with directions.

The highlight, of course, is the poetry that’s featured every so often along the mile.

Some of them might be known to you; others might be rarer or more easily forgotten outside of a high school English classroom.

Either way, however, you’re sure to enjoy the Robert Frost Interpretive Trail.

It’s a must do for any literary nerds out there, but it’ll be nice for all.

Address: Ripton, VT 05766, United States

24. Fairbanks Museum and Planetarium

Joseph Sohm / Shutterstock

Despite its size, there’s only one public access planetarium in the state of Vermont.

If you want to see the stars up close, you have to visit the Fairbanks Museum and Planetarium !

Fortunately, the trip is worth it.

The building is a combination of a science museum and a history center, and it contains a treasure trove of objects, artifacts, photos, videos and exhibits.

Topics range from the tiniest of pebbles on the ground to the largest of galaxy clusters in space.

The museum also boasts several “special features” such as a live butterfly house, so there’s more to do than simply wandering the corridors and peering inside the glass displays.

In the planetarium, too, there are film showings, stargazing parties and demonstrations of various astronomy tools.

Consider a trip to the Fairbanks Museum and Planetarium if you want to get close to the night sky.

It’s one of the rarest of Vermont’s attractions since you can’t find a planetarium anywhere else!

Address: 1302 Main St, St Johnsbury, VT 05819, United States

25. Waterfront Park

Ilir Hasa / Shutterstock

If you’re on a budget, you might be wondering what to see in Vermont that won’t cost you an arm and a leg.

The good news is that there are plenty of free things to do in the state, including a trip to Waterfront Park.

Curling around a large, picturesque lake, Waterfront Park is a gorgeous destination on a sunny day.

There are playgrounds, boathouses, bike paths, athletic fields, skating arenas and more, so you can take advantage of the lovely weather with all kinds of outdoor activities.

The best thing about Waterfront Park, however, is that you don’t have to spend a dime to enjoy it.

You can splurge on everything from an ice-cold creemee to a sailboat rental for a day on the water, but it isn’t a necessity.

You can simply walk around, take in the sights and soak up Vitamin D from the sun.

Hit up Waterfront Park if you’re looking for free or lost-cost vacation spots in Vermont.

You don’t have to be rich to luxuriate in a picnic on the grass!

Address: 20 Lake St, Burlington, VT 05401, United States

26. Green Mountain Railroad

Putneypics / flickr

If you have “take a scenic train ride through the countryside” on your bucket list, the Green Mountain Railroad is the place to book it.

You’ll be taken through some of the most beautiful sights in the northeast, and all the while, you’ll be reclining on cushioned seats and enjoying the hospitality of a charming, old-fashioned railway service.

Rides range from short one-hour trips to all-day extravaganzas.

Depending on the season, you can book different tours such as the “Pumpkin Patch Express” in the autumn or the “Green Mountain Christmas Train” during the holidays.

You can also book year-long trips with fun themes such as “Burlington Murder Mystery Train” or “Champlain Valley Dinner Train.”

You don’t have to get fancy, however.

You can just book a trip that will take you through the fall foliage, the winter snow or the spring flowers.

Things like brunch are just a bonus.

If you want to see multiple Vermont attractions in a single trip, buy a ticket for the Green Mountain Railroad.

Since it passes by all kinds of sights and landmarks, it’s a way to cram several vacation experiences into one.

You’ll really get your money’s worth with a train ride through the countryside!

27. Freedlyville Quarry

Sébastien Barré / flickr

Located in Dorset, Vermont, the Freedlyville Quarry is something of a hidden gem.

While it’s a popular site for locals, there aren’t a lot of travelers who realize its beauty or its potential for fun.

You see, the quarry is more than just a quarry.

It’s a holdover from the 1700s when mining was a big industry in Vermont.

It was abandoned over the years without being filled or cordoned off, which has resulted in a large, cavern-like space of glossy black marble where folks routinely gather and have fun.

Hikers pass through the quarry as part of a local nature trail.

Ice skaters use it in the winter.

Selfie-takers take some of their best shots there.

If you’re looking for fun places to go in Vermont, you won’t want to miss the Freedlyville Quarry.

It isn’t one of the most famous tourist attractions in the state, but its beauty and obscurity give it a real “wow” factor, and it’s exactly the kind of thing that travelers like to find when they go off the beaten path.

Address: 3817-5015 Dorset Hill Rd, Dorset, VT 05251, United States

28. Rudyard Kipling House

Daderot , CC0, via Wikimedia Commons

Also known by the name Naulakha, or “nine hundred thousand rupees,” the Rudyard Kipling House is where the esteemed author lived and worked in the late 1800s.

It’s been partially converted to a museum that celebrates his legacy, but a large part also remains untouched from its original days of habitation, offering a fascinating look into turn-of-the-century living.

The interior of the estate includes many rooms, including an office with a well-preserved desk where it’s said that Kipling wrote The Jungle Book.

Outside, there are pools and sunken gardens where the author went to find peace, and there are also several historic outbuildings such as carriage barns that were used before the invention of cars and garages.

While the Rudyard Kipling House is open to the public, reservations are encouraged, so try not to drop by unannounced.

If you want to go this weekend, make a reservation for this weekend.

Be courteous like Mowgli would!

Address: Naulakha, 481 Kipling Rd, Dummerston, VT 05301, United States

29. Vermont Toy Museum

Vermont Toy Museum

What does your version of heaven look like?

If it includes 100,000 toys, you won’t want to miss the Vermont Toy Museum .

Located above a quaint little general store, the museum is filled to the brim with rare and vintage toys.

There are dollhouses and model trains; there are figurines, telescopes, yo-yos, building blocks, music boxes and stuffed animals.

There’s even a wall with a vintage comic book collection that absolutely explodes with color!

Many of the toys have been collected and displayed by decade, so you can see the evolution of the toy industry from the 1950s to the present day as you walk through the rows.

Other charms and trinkets are simply strewn about for your amusement.

Another fun fact about the museum is that no one is quite sure who owns it.

However, it’s said to be “watched closely” by other vendors in the area, so in a way, it truly embodies an old-fashioned community spirit.

The Vermont Toy Museum is definitely one of the quirkiest things to see in the state.

You won’t want to miss the whizz-bang charm of its collection, so plan for a visit sometime soon!

Address: 5573 Woodstock Rd, White River Junction, VT 05001, United States

30. Morse Farm Maple Sugarworks

Morse Farm Maple Sugarworks

If you have a sweet tooth, this is the destination for you!

Morse Farm Maple Sugarworks is a family-owned business located just a few miles outside of Montpelier.

It’s part farm, part museum and complete fun, so you and your kids are sure to have a blast.

The “sugar house” offers tours and tastings.

The woodshed theater rolls informative films.

The country store offers all kinds of treats, crafts and souvenirs, and carved animals and folklore characters add whimsy to the space.

Nature trails are everywhere for those who enjoy the outdoors.

All things considered, the Morse Farm Maple Sugarworks is a top 10 location for candy and syrup lovers in Vermont.

It’s also great for anyone who loves cute and quirky places to go.

If you’re the type of traveler who always seeks destinations with “character,” get your taste buds ready for some sugarworks!

Address: 1168 County Rd, Montpelier, VT 05602, United States

31. Jennings Hall

Jennings Hall

Located on the campus of Bennington College, Jennings Hall is an imposing gray brick building that sits atop a hill and is covered with creeping vines and the slow, steady scrapes of nearby tree branches.

If this sounds like something out of a scary movie, your instincts are correct: It was the inspiration behind The Haunting of Hill House, a famous gothic horror novel from 1959 that has since been made into two feature films and a Netflix series.

As a college dorm, the modern-day Jennings Hall isn’t quite as haunted as its Hollywood counterparts, but it still has a legacy.

Students report that tons of tourists flock to the campus to see it and take pictures.

According to local legend, there’s a real-world basis for the ghost stories, too.

Residents have reported tons of creepy occurrences such as doors slamming on their own and cold drafts appearing out of nowhere.

Jennings Hall isn’t one of the craziest of Vermont’s attractions.

Since it’s currently in use by a university, you can’t really interact with it beyond taking pictures.

For movie buffs and horror story enthusiasts, however, it might be worth a trip.

Check out Jennings Hall if you aren’t afraid of a few ghosts!

Address: 1 Bennington College Rd, North Bennington, VT 05257, United States

32. Marsh-Billings-Rockefeller National Historical Park

Are you wondering what to do in Vermont in the winter?

Try Marsh-Billings-Rockefeller National Historical Park .

The name is a mouthful, to be sure, but that’s because it functions as a blend of three distinct areas in Woodstock, Vermont.

It covers more than 500 acres in total, and they form a breathtaking panorama that includes lakes, mountains, valleys, forests and streams.

You can visit the park year round; activities include everything from ranger-guided tours to hands-on demonstrations and workshops about nature topics.

However, the most famous vacation spots only open in the winter.

These are dedicated to skiing, tubing and snowshoeing around the powdery white slopes that take over the cliffs when the temperature drops.

Any time of year is a great time to visit the Marsh-Billings-Rockefeller National Historical Park.

Whether you’re vacationing today, tomorrow, this weekend or next summer, the sights will be waiting for you!

Address: 54 Elm St, Woodstock, VT 05091, United States

33. ArborTrek Canopy Adventures

MVolodymyr / Shutterstock

If you’re looking for cool places in Vermont, how about a ziplining company located in Jeffersonville?

Offering activities that range “from the serene to the extreme,” ArborTrek Canopy Adventures is a destination for all-ages, family-friendly fun.

Kids can be strapped into climbing structures.

Teens can test their mettle on obstacle and rope courses.

Adults can go soaring through the treetops on ziplines.

Families aren’t the only ones welcome at the site, however.

The company also provides team-building exercises for corporate retreats.

If you want nifty things to do in Vermont with colleagues, this might be perfect!

Check out ArborTrek Canopy Adventures if you’re looking for some high-octane thrills in Vermont.

Whether you’re traveling with kids, friends, relatives or co-workers, everyone can get their heart pumping here.

Address: 1239 Edwards Rd, Jeffersonville, VT 05464, United States

34. Fleming Museum of Art

Fleming Museum of Art

The Fleming Museum of Art is sponsored by the University of Burlington.

This means that, in addition to showcasing a priceless collection of both local and international art, the proceeds from the museum also go towards support for education.

Though the museum wasn’t founded until 1931, the university was collecting artwork as early as 1826.

It just didn’t have a safe place to put it all, not until they rallied and built a fine arts center that eventually turned into the art museum of today.

Visitors to the museum can enjoy everything from paintings and portraits to indigenous masks and vintage wedding gowns.

Most of the collection is divided by region, so you can make your way through African, Asian, Oceanic, European, American and Native American exhibits.

The Fleming Museum of Art is one of the best places to get a little culture in Burlington.

It’s okay if you aren’t a student.

The campus is used to visitors who are just drawn to the art.

Address: 61 Colchester Ave, Burlington, VT 05405, United States

35. Smugglers’ Notch Resort

Smugglers’ Notch Resort

Smugglers’ Notch Resort is one of the best things to do in Vermont.

Not only does it have cool origins, but it’s also been decked out with all of the activities and amenities that you could want from a ski resort.

First things first: Why is it called the Smugglers’ Notch Resort?

Back in the early 19th century, the craggy cliffs and thick trees provided lots of cover for smugglers along the US-Canada border.

The most popular cargo was bootlegged alcohol during the Prohibition era, but many other goods were bought and sold as well.

Today, there’s no illicit activity at the resort, not unless you count “having so much fun that it should be illegal.”

Visitors have tons of options for both indoor and outdoor entertainment.

Skiing might be the most popular pastime, but it’s far from the only one.

Book a room at the Smugglers’ Notch Resort if you want to enjoy winter excursions in Vermont while also creating a cool story to tell your friends and family back home.

You can sleep in the same area as smugglers and bootleggers from the 1920s!

How awesome is that?

Address: 4323 VT-108, Jeffersonville, VT 05464, United States

36. Estey Organ Museum

Estey Organ Museum

Have you ever been in a museum where you can actually play with the artifacts inside?

At the Estey Organ Museum , it isn’t only allowed; it’s encouraged!

You see, every instrument in the museum is made just a few feet away in the neighboring organ factory.

Some have defects that make them unsuitable for sale; some are deliberately designed to be fun and interesting as tourist attractions.

As a result, the organs in the museum come in every size, shape and color that you can imagine.

Some are as small as a breadbox while others are as large as a horse.

There are also a number that have been outfitted with mirrors, doilies and other decorations to enhance your playing experience.

You might want to buy a pair of earplugs before you enter since every visitor is allowed to make music at will.

If you want to join the concert, however, step right in to the Estey Organ Museum and let ‘er rip!

Address: 108 Birge St, Brattleboro, VT 05301, United States

37. Paramount Theater

Jimmy Emerson, DVM / flickr

Also known as “The Playhouse,” Paramount Theater is one of the oldest theaters in the region.

Built in 1913, it’s certainly the oldest in its native town of Rutland, and it might be one of the oldest in the entire state of Vermont.

The opulence of the space can’t be overstated.

It was deliberately designed to mimic a Victorian-era opera house, so it has plush seats, ornate fixtures and lavish decorations as far as the eye can see.

It’s the kind of place where you can go when you want to feel like a 19th century socialite or high society gentlemen.

The good news is that the theater is still operational, so you can watch plays and performances just like the flappers did.

In addition to its live shows, the theater also hosts all kinds of historical, cultural and educational events dedicated to the arts.

Put on your best blazer or your highest pair of heels.

It’s time to hit up the nightlife in Rutland, and that starts with a show at the Paramount Theater.

Address: 30 Center St, Rutland, VT 05701, United States

38. Pump House Indoor Waterpark

Pump House Indoor Waterpark

Another great place for indoor recreation, the Pump House Indoor Waterpark is open rain or shine, so it can be a nice retreat when the weather isn’t behaving for outdoor games and sports.

The Pump House Indoor Waterpark is actually a feature of the Jay Park Resort, but you don’t have to be a lodger to enjoy the amenities.

You can just buy a ticket online.

Once you enter the park, you’ll be faced with all kinds of attractions, including rides, slides, chutes and other crazy water attractions.

For example, the “Double Barrel Flowrider” is a mix of surfing and skateboarding that takes place on an unending wave.

The “Deep Water Activity Pool” contains everything from a climbing wall to an aquatic basketball area.

If you prefer taking it easy, there are also a number of pools where you can simply soak or take some leisurely laps at your own pace.

Get wet and wild this summer with a visit to the Pump House Indoor Waterpark.

It’s the only indoor waterpark in Vermont, so it’s worth the trip!

Address: 830 Jay Peak Rd, Jay, VT 05859, United States

39. Montshire Museum of Science

Montshire Museum of Science

There’s no shortage of natural science museums in Vermont, but if you’re looking for the best of the best, you’ll want to put the Montshire Museum of Science on your bucket list.

More than 150 exhibits showcase different types of flora and fauna.

There are live animal enclosures that include aquariums, ant colonies and honeybee hives.

A large-scale model of the solar system stretches across the landscape, and an observation deck on top of the trees will let you gaze at everything below.

In the summertime, clubs and workshops will let you and the little ones learn about nature.

In the wintertime, you can sign up for igloo building contests.

There’s so much fun stuff to do at the Montshire Museum of Science that you might need multiple trips to enjoy it all.

If you’re shortlisting cool places to visit in Vermont, put it at #1!

Address: 1 Montshire Rd, Norwich, VT 05055, United States

40. Whistling Man Schooner Company

Whistling Man Schooner Company

Are you looking for romantic things to do while vacationing in Vermont?

Look no further than the Whistling Man Schooner Company .

It offers cruises along Lake Champlain that will absolutely take your breath away with their shimmering, sparkling beauty.

Cruises are available on both public and private sailboats.

If you want to experience golden hour with just you and your sweetheart, book the Wild Rose for an individual sunset cruise.

If you’d like to make new friends, book a public cruise aboard the Friend Ship and chat away with 6 – 12 others.

No sailing experience is necessary.

If you’d like, you can just sit back and let the captain and deckhands take care of everything.

On the flip side, if you’d like to learn the basics of sailing, the crew will be happy to show you the ropes.

All things considered, the Whistling Man Schooner Company has a little something for everyone in terms of cruise trips.

You can make yours romantic or adventurous, thrilling or relaxing, private or sociable.

It’s all up to you!

Address: 1 College St, Burlington, VT 05401, United States

41. Club Metronome

Club Metronome

Nightlife enthusiasts, this one is for you.

Club Metronome is one of the hot spots in downtown Burlington when you feel like drinking, dancing and cutting loose in general.

Trendy music is pumped through the speakers while crowds move sinuously on the dance floor and toss back drinks at the bars or in the lounge areas.

Depending on the evening, there might also be special events like karaoke competitions or amateur comedy shows.

Live music is also a staple feature on the weekends; the club is known as a great place for up-and-coming bands.

The dress code is casual.

The menu is delicious.

The people skew on the younger side since they flock from the local university, but there are plenty of older folks as well.

If you know how to have a good time, you’ll be welcome here.

Check out Club Metronome when the sun’s going down but there’s still energy in the air.

Vermont might not be as notorious as New York or LA when it comes to the club scene, but it can still offer wild times.

Address: 188 Main St, Burlington, VT 05401, United States

42. Killington Ski Area

Ray Esteves / Shutterstock

Another great place to hit the slopes in Vermont, the Killington Ski Area manages to combine breathtaking outdoor beauty with everyday functionality for skiers of all ages and skill levels.

There are more than 70 miles of trails, and they’re spread out across 1,500 acres.

Diverse terrain ensures that every type of skier can find a landscape that suits them.

Beginners can take it easy on gentle inclines; experts can get the wind whipping through their hair as they tackle intense or tricky slopes.

If you aren’t a fan of skiing, don’t worry; you can also pass the time with snow tubing, snowshoeing and snowmobiling.

There are even sleigh rides available for the littlest members of your party!

If you’re wondering what to do on snowy days in Vermont, Killington Ski Area is the answer.

It transforms into a winter wonderland every single year, and there’s a little something for everyone in terms of fun.

Address: 3861 Killington Rd, Killington, VT 05751, United States

43. Great Vermont Corn Maze

Dennis Wegewijs / Shutterstock

Is there anything as quintessentially Vermont as a gigantic corn maze?

Covering more than 24 acres, the Great Vermont Corn Maze is the largest of its kind in the entire New England region.

It takes around three hours to hike it all, and you’ll cross paths with all kinds of obstacles along the way.

If you don’t feel up to three hours in a labyrinth, there are also smaller attractions such as the “Scenic Maze” that only takes 40 minutes to finish and includes marked directions so that you won’t get lost.

Snacks are available to keep you refreshed.

There are also dedicated play areas for young kids outside the mazes so that they can enjoy themselves just as much as the adults.

The Great Vermont Corn Maze isn’t easy.

There are disclaimers all over its website that will warn you of this.

If you’re up to the challenge, however, it can be a delightful and unforgettable way to spend an afternoon!

Address: 1404 Wheelock Rd, Danville, VT 05828, United States

44. Bellows Falls Petroglyphs

Bellows Falls Petroglyphs

One of the most interesting places to see in Vermont is the mountainous region with the Bellows Falls Petroglyphs .

They’re a genuine archaeological marvel that dates back to prehistoric times, and they’re inscribed right on the rocks for all visitors to see.

The most noteworthy thing about the petrogylphs is that they aren’t like any others that have been identified as Native American works.

While there are plenty of records of the signs and symbols used by the old indigenous tribes of Vermont, these don’t seem to have any particular origin.

Experts aren’t even sure when they’re from; their best guess is that the carvings are anywhere from 300 – 3,000 years old.

You don’t have to be Indiana Jones to appreciate a history like that.

If you want to see something that’s just plain cool, check out the Bellows Falls Petroglyphs.

Address: Above The Connecticut River, Bellows Falls, VT 05101, United States

45. Lake Willoughby

NEKVT / Shutterstock

Many things to see in Vermont involve the outdoors, and Lake Willoughby is no exception.

It’s one of the best vacation spots for folks who want to get out of the city for awhile and enjoy nature as it was meant to be enjoyed.

What makes it so special?

For starters, the water is crystal clear and absolutely stunning.

It’s sometimes called “America’s Lucerne” after the famed Lucerne Lake in Switzerland.

The surrounding scenery is equally gorgeous.

Berries grow in the warmer months; leaves fall in the cooler ones.

In the summer, you can go swimming and kayaking; in the winter, you can go ice skating while surrounded by snow.

Another nice thing about Lake Willoughby is that there’s no charge for admission.

You can drop some cash on things like lakeside cabins for rental, but if you’re on a budget, you can also keep your money and just enjoy the sights for what they are.

Lake Willoughby is a perfect example for free things to do in the Green Mountain State.

Address: Westmore, VT, United States

46. Rock of Ages

ChristineMinato / Shutterstock

Rock of Ages is a fun and appropriately-named tour of a rock quarry.

Even more appropriately, it’s located in Graniteville, Vermont.

There’s more to this destination than just its name, however.

It’s actually one of the most interesting places to visit in Vermont due to its incredible size.

There are more than 600 feet between the highest and lowest points of the jagged white cliffs, and a large portion of that space is filled with vividly green water.

Visitors can take a driving tour around the bumpy, rocky trails of the quarry and gaze in awe at its massive pool of water.

They can also stop by a visitor’s center with photos, exhibits, films and souvenirs related to the quarry and its history.

Just for kicks, they can even go bowling in a one-of-a-kind granite bowling lane!

If you’re looking for unique vacation ideas in Vermont, put Rock of Ages on your itinerary.

You’re going to have very few opportunities in life to bowl in a 600-foot rock quarry.

Take advantage while you can.

Address: 558 Graniteville Rd, Graniteville, VT 05654, United States

47. Wilson Castle

Jay Parker / flickr

Wilson Castle is one of the weirdest things to do in Vermont, but it’s also one of the coolest.

Originally built in the 1860s for the staggering sum of $1.3 million, Wilson Castle was commissioned by a doctor who wanted to impress his wife, a member of the English aristocracy.

The end result was a gigantic three-story mansion with everything from stained glass windows to turrets and parapets.

It doesn’t have a single architectural style, either; it combines various elements of Scottish Baronial, Romanesque Revival and Dutch Neo-Renaissance.

Did we mention that it’s bright orange?

Wilson Castle is the kind of thing that has to be seen to be believed.

Thankfully, it’s open for tours most months of the year, so all you have to do is call and reserve a spot.

You don’t have to travel to Europe to see a castle.

Just visit the Wilson estate and revel in one of the most famous places in Vermont.

Address: 2970 W Proctor Rd, Proctor, VT 05765, United States

48. Snow Farm Vineyard and Winery

Snow Farm Vineyard & Winery

Get a taste of Napa Valley without having to leave Vermont.

The Snow Farm Vineyard and Winery is an utterly gorgeous destination that looks like something from a postcard with its green fields, blue skies and purple grapes ready to burst right off the vines.

Tours are available if you want to see the fields and factories up close.

There are also tons of wine tasting events to sample the wares and maybe even buy some to take home.

Additionally, if you visit during the summer, you can enjoy outdoor concerts held every week.

Musicians range from indie folk artists with guitars to award-winning symphony orchestras.

Get drunk on wine and sunshine with a trip to the Snow Farm Vineyard and Winery.

It’s a wonderful way to see the countryside of Vermont, and it’ll quench your thirst, too!

Address: 190 W Shore Rd, South Hero, VT 05486, United States

Start Planning Your Trip To Vermont

These are just a few of the best things to do in Vermont.

Whether you’re looking for outdoor activities like hiking and biking or indoor fun like bar-hopping or window-shopping, this is a state with a lot to offer.

Don’t be surprised if you find yourself coming back again and again!

Happy travels.

The 25 Best Things to Do in Vermont

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A premier destination in New England, Vermont dazzles with its spectacular fall foliage, snow-covered ski trails, covered bridges, and homegrown maple syrup. The Green Mountain State is known for its year-round beauty and is home to charming small towns, historic landmarks, and culinary treats. 

Its open landscapes offer a wealth of outdoor adventures, from mountainous hiking trails to photogenic road trips. You can also spend time marveling at the state’s incredible natural wonders, from plunging waterfalls to beautiful lake beaches to deep gorges.  

Delicious food and drink options are on the menu here. This is the place where you can add local maple farms and a renowned cheese trail to your itinerary. Wash your Vermont-made goods down with a cold beer, as it boasts the most craft breweries per capita of any state in the US! 

If you’re looking for the best things to see and do in Vermont, we’ve created a go-to guide for exploring The Green Mountain State. Our Vermont bucket list includes the state’s top attractions, outdoor adventures, and where to capture the best views of its picture-perfect scenery. Regardless of what season you visit, these are the coolest things to do in Vermont. 

Don’t forget to check out our web story: The 25 Best Things to Do in Vermont

Disclaimer: This post may contain affiliate links. If you make a purchase or booking through one of our links we may earn a small commission (don’t worry, it’s at no extra cost to you).

25 cool and unique things to do in Vermont

1. explore the highlights in stowe.

Visiting Stowe is a must on any traveler’s Vermont bucket list, as this picture-perfect mountain resort town offers year-round adventures. Luring in nature lovers from across the country, it’s most loved for its small-town charm and abundant outdoor recreation, including skiing, hiking, mountain biking, and rock climbing opportunities. 

Stowe Mountain Resort is the town’s main attraction, offering skiers and snowboarders a variety of trail options, from double-black diamonds to beginner-friendly terrain. Cross-country skiing and snowshoeing are also on offer in the winter, while warmer months are perfect for rock climbing, zip-lining, and gondola rides. 

Avid fans of The Sound of Music won’t want to miss a chance to tour the Trapp Family Lodge , a stunning Austrian-inspired lodge on 2,500 acres. You can also stretch your legs on the popular Stowe Recreation Path, a 5.5-mile route that winds its way through Stowe Village. 

This town is also a home base for some of Vermont’s other top attractions, including Smugglers’ Notch State Park and Moss Glen Falls. Visit Ben & Jerry’s Waterbury Factory , then pop into the quirky Vermont Ski and Snowboard Museum to learn more about the town’s skiing and snowboarding history through unique exhibits. 

Book a Local Brewery Tour in Stowe

2. Drive the Scenic Route 100

If you’re looking for the ultimate Vermont road trip itinerary, add Route 100 to your things to do in the Green Mountain State. At over 200 miles long, it’s Vermont’s longest state highway and also one of the most loved due to its incredibly scenic views along the way. 

Running straight through the center of Vermont from north to south, Route 100 is considered one of the best journeys in New England. Start your adventure in Wilmington and relax, sail, paddle, or fish by Lake Whitingham, then walk its charming Main Street. 

Drive to Ludlow and stop in popular ski towns like West Dover, which is home to Mount Snow. Make your way to Waitsfield and visit President Calvin Coolidge State Historic Site and Moss Glen Falls, then explore Stowe’s highlights. Wrap up your trip in Newport and take in the views of the glacial lake from one of the several overlooks at the waterfront. 

If you want to see the leaves change from green to bright shades of red, yellow, and orange, it’s best to embark on this road trip in October. The entire journey can take about five hours if you don’t stop but can be stretched to five days if you want to take your time to explore the picturesque Green Mountains. 

3. Go Cave Exploring at Smugglers Notch State Park

​​The natural attractions found in Smugglers Notch State Park have made it one of the top things to do in Vermont if you’re an outdoor lover. Located less than a mile away from Stowe Mountain Resort, this narrow pass through the Green Mountains is lined with towering 1,000-foot cliffs. 

It once aided illegal trade between the United States and Canada but is now a scenic destination full of recreational opportunities. Popular hikes include the Sterling Pond Trail and the challenging Hellbrook Trail. Adventure seekers will definitely want to take advantage of the bouldering, ice climbing, cave exploring, and biking opportunities. 

For a scenic day trip, start at the Barnes Camp Visitor Center and follow the wetlands boardwalk or pack a lunch and admire the beautiful stream at the Smugglers’ Notch Picnic Area. Ideal for all skill levels, the short Bingham Falls Trail leads to a beautiful cascade and gorges with swimming spots. 

You can also stay overnight in this nature-filled state park, with its campground offering easy access to the hiking trails. The restrooms have flush toilets, hot and cold running water, and coin-operated hot showers.

4. Marvel at Moss Glen Falls

While Vermont is full of impressive waterfalls, Moss Glen Falls is one of the best! Accessible via a short hike, it’s surrounded by some of the state’s most spectacular scenery. 

Tucked within the CC Putnam State Forest, this top-rated waterfall incorporates water from the Moss Glen Brook. Plunging 125 feet, the area’s rough rock face creates a picturesque landscape of tranquil streams that flow into the pool below. 

It’s easy to reach Moss Glen Falls, as it’s located right outside of Stowe’s Historic Village. Once you make the short drive to the nearby parking lot, it’s only a 15-minute (quarter-mile) hike to reach the natural wonder. Hikers of all skill levels and families with kids can add this activity to their Vermont bucket list. 

This popular waterfall hike is best seen between May and October. If you want an additional challenge with even better views, you can take the trail further up for a straight view of the falls. Along the way to the top of the gorge, you’ll come across plenty of vistas of the entire valley and lots of opportunities for photographs. This trip is longer at around 2.9 miles. 

5. Sample Sweet Treats at Ben & Jerry’s

If you didn’t already know, the all-American classic Ben & Jerry’s was founded in Vermont. A popular tourist attraction for both kids and adults, a behind-the-scenes factory tour is a highlight of any trip for those with a sweet tooth! 

Located in Waterbury, you can sign up for an exciting guided tour of the Ice Cream Shop Waterbury Vermont to see the fascinating process of how your favorite frozen treats get made. It’s one of the original factories, still producing over 350,000 pints in its facility daily. 

Your ice cream adventure and factory visit start with an exploration of the farm and the production floor, which features a collection of the fascinating machinery used to manufacture the famous dessert. Seeing the discontinued ice cream flavors is a highlight for most visitors, while the tasting room gives you a chance to try some of the latest ice creams. 

Afterward, you’ll want to indulge with a few of your favorite flavors at the on-site scoop shop. You can also visit the site’s popular gift shop, which offers a range of Ben & Jerry’s souvenir items and allows you to take home ice cream in insulated carriers. 

6. Stroll Downtown Burlington’s Famous Church Street Marketplace

Vermont’s biggest city, Burlington is best known for its Church Street Marketplace. Set in the heart of downtown, it’s a traffic-free, four-block-long area dotted with shops, restaurants, and boutiques. 

It offers a lively scene with sidewalk cafes and public artwork, while festivals are regularly held here throughout the year. At night, Church Street comes alive with a buzzing atmosphere as locals dine alfresco and go bar hopping. 

Sit on a bench on Church Street and enjoy people watching and listening to local buskers playing their tunes. One of the best activities in this area is shopping, so you can also opt for a stroll past the variety of clothing stores, bookshops, antique shops, and vendors selling artisan foods. 

Speaking of food, you’ll have no shortage of dining options on Church Street. There is a long list of international food options, as well as food carts with pizza and cheap eats. Leunig’s Bistro is one of the most popular choices and serves a menu of classic French dishes.

After you’re done exploring downtown Burlington and its famous Church Street, you can find plenty of things to do nearby. Visit the lake and swim at the many beaches, or hop on a bike and cruise the scenic pathways on the Burlington Bike Path. 

7. Bask at the Beaches on Lake Champlain

Escape the city life and bask in the tranquil atmosphere of Vermont’s Lake Champlain. Considered a must-do thing in Vermont on warm days, this massive body of water extends for 120 miles between Vermont and New York. 

Popular for its outdoor recreation, wildlife watching opportunities, and historical attractions, nature lovers flock to enjoy its 587 miles of mostly undeveloped shoreline. Camping and hiking are also popular activities, while boat tours are a leisurely way to experience its natural beauty. 

The sixth-largest freshwater lake in the United States, this natural wonder can be enjoyed with a summertime dip at one of the beaches that line the lake or on a kayaking excursion. The North Beach Campground offers waterfront camping, while Oakledge Park offers rental paddleboards in the summer months. Alternately, opt for a private sailing, kayaking, or stand-up paddleboarding lesson on the lake with Lake Champlain Community Sailing Center . 

While there are several towns along the shores of Lake Champlain, Burlington is the largest city on the lake and one of the most popular home bases for getting out on the water. It’s a scenic destination year-round, but July and August are the best for swimming opportunities. 

8. Browse Art & History Exhibits at Shelburne Museum

Art aficionados should add an afternoon of browsing the fine art collection of Shelburne Museum to their itinerary. One of the coolest things to do in Vermont, this unique museum combines history and art with over 150,000 works displayed in 39 exhibition buildings. 

Many of the buildings here are historic landmarks that were relocated to the museum’s site and showcase traditional New England architecture. Take a step back in time as you explore the open-air museum’s historic collection that includes a farmhouse, lighthouse, schoolhouse, and Ticonderoga steamboat. 

Inside, you’ll find rotating exhibits that make every visit here fascinating, while it’s best known for its collection of American art from the 18th to the 20th centuries. Get up close to Impressionist paintings, folk art, quilts, and textiles, then browse its decorative arts and circus collections. 

With its wide array of exhibits, this unconventional museum offers an immersive experience that will delight visitors of all ages. It’s unlike any other museum you’ve ever been to before, where you can marvel at a painting by renowned artists like Claude Monet, then see duck decoys, carousel animals, and a side-wheel steamboat all in one day!

9. Climb the Summit of Mount Mansfield

Mount Mansfield is Vermont’s highest mountain and offers spectacular views from its summit. Adventure-seekers looking for a challenge will find a number of scenic routes to tackle at this year-round destination, which sits at nearly 4,440-feet high. 

It has a unique profile, and many say Mount Mansfield looks like the face of a man peering up at the sky. With this, many of the mountain’s ridgeline peaks are referred to as the corresponding face features, like the chin, nose, etc. 

One of the most popular ways to get to the top is via the Sun Ridge Hiking Trail, which starts from the base area at Stowe Mountain Resort. Typically taking hikers around 3-5 hours to complete, the reward includes sweeping panoramic views across Vermont’s impressive natural landscapes. On a clear day, you can capture views of Lake Champlain, the White Mountains, and the Adirondacks! 

If you’re not up for hiking, there’s also an Auto Toll Road driving route that leads to the summit. Open from June to October, you can also hop on the Stowe Gondola SkyRide and enjoy the photo opportunities of the lush forest canopy from the comfort of a gondola. 

10. Tour the World’s Largest Granite Quarry

Not only does the Rock of Ages Quarry have a fun name, but it’s also one of the coolest things to do in Vermont! At this unique attraction, you can peer into the depths of the largest deep-hole quarry in the world. 

At a staggering 550 feet wide, a quarter-mile long, and 450 feet deep, a visit to this immense quarry offers a fun adventure with a few surprises. Your journey starts at the modern Visitors Center, where you can reserve a guided caravan ticket. 

Inside the 5,000-square-foot facility, you can watch a video about the quarrying and manufacturing process in its theater and browse historic photos and exhibits. You can also pick up an array of natural stone gifts. 

Snag tickets for the caravan-style tour to the quarry, which takes you to an impressive overlook. The one-of-a-kind tour is about 40 minutes in length and gets you close to the record-holding granite quarry. 

The site encourages you to pack and picnic, while kids will love the outdoor granite bowling lane! You can also enjoy a fun game of corn hole and take a free souvenir home from the grout pile. 

11. Hike Along Vermont’s Deepest Gorge

The deepest gorge in all of Vermont, Quechee Gorge is 165 feet deep and a unique natural attraction. For nature lovers, it’s a top thing to do in Vermont, as you’ll find a range of walking trails, picnic spots, and waterfall viewing areas. 

Dating back to 13,000 years ago, this gorge that has been dubbed “Vermont’s Little Grand Canyon” was formed by glaciers and continued to deepen by the flow of the Ottauquechee River. Located in Quechee State Park, you can also take in the view from the US Route 4 bridge. 

You can also opt to admire the views of the gorge as you follow the designated trail, which gives you prime views of the waterway below. The hike is about 20 minutes to the bottom of the gorge and features several other trails if you want to extend your time here. 

Designed for hikers of all skill levels, even little ones can enjoy making a splash in the swimming area at the bottom. You can even camp overnight under the stars at this natural wonder, with the on-site campsite featuring both tent and RV sites. 

12. Get Hands-On at the Billings Farm & Museum

Head to Woodstock and explore the Billings Farm & Museum , a top family attraction in The Green Mountain State. The award-winning site is an outdoor history museum set on a working farm and boasts a long list of exciting hands-on activities that will keep both kids and adults entertained. 

Set in a beautiful rural area of Vermont, just a short stroll from the village center of Woodstock, the farm here is home to cows, horses, pigs, oxen, chickens, and sheep. If you’re an animal lover, make sure to say hello to these cuddly creatures. 

Step inside one of the best outdoor history museums in the country to explore the unique exhibits, which include a country store, traditional farmhouse, and farm workshop. Learn about what life was actually like on the farm at the turn of the century, and see how Vermont became the largest maple producer in the United States. 

The family attraction also features an on-site theater showing special presentations and films, as well as a Sunflower House between August and mid-September and a Learning Kitchen with food demonstrations. Its Dairy Bar even has Vermont-made ice cream. On your way out, don’t forget to stop by the gift shop to purchase fresh produce from the farm. 

13. Tour the Farm at Marsh-Billings-Rockefeller National Historical Park

Take a stroll through one of Vermont’s most beautiful landscapes at Marsh-Billings-Rockefeller National Historical Park , the state’s only national park. Featuring sugar maples, 400-year-old hemlocks, covered bridges, and stone walls, this destination is incredibly photogenic!

In addition to a collection of scenic hiking paths, this site also features a Victorian-style mansion, a working farm, and the Mount Tom Forest. After exploring the 550 acres on foot, you can take a guided tour of the mansion to learn about the families who lived there and admire its lavish decor. 

Kids will love the working farm, as they’ll have the chance to get up close to an array of adorable farm animals. You can also take a break with a leisurely stroll through the gardens, while scenic roads winding through the forest give you a quick immersion into the natural beauty if you’re short on time. 

If you’re up for a unique adventure, the park’s trails are open year-round. Hiking and equestrian use are popular in the spring, summer, and fall, while winter snow offers a chance to enjoy cross-country skiing and snowshoeing. 

14. Visit a Spectacular Maple Farm

If there’s one thing you should add to your Vermont bucket list, it’s visiting one of its maple farms. The iconic trees that make Vermont famous for its gorgeous fall foliage also make it a top producer of maple syrup in the United States. 

Plan your visit between late February and early April, when the sugar houses are at their peak, and you’ll have a greater chance of sampling the golden syrup concoctions. Two of the most popular maple farms in Vermont are Morse Farm Maple Sugarworks in Montpelier and Sugarbush Farm in Woodstock. Both are open year-round and you can come for a visit to learn about the process and production and sample their maple products. 

At Morse Farm Maple Sugarworks , the eighth-generation family-owned maple syrup farm features multimedia displays in its woodshed theater. It also boasts free sugar house tours and tastings, a nature trail, a country store, and an outdoor Vermont farm life museum. 

You can also add Sugarbush Farm to your itinerary, as this 500-acre farm offers you a chance to sample its various cheeses and maple syrups. Afterward, you can browse the local jams and spreads at the farm store or make friends with the on-site farm animals. 

15. Go Skiing at Killington Ski Resort

Nicknamed the “Beast of the East,” Killington Ski Resort is a popular spot for winter sports in Vermont. The massive ski mountain not only boasts the highest vertical in New England, but it’s also the largest ski area on the east coast with over 1,500 acres. 

Ski enthusiasts will be impressed with the world-class slopes at this top-rated ski destination, where you’ll find runs that cater to all skill levels. There are 155 runs to choose from, which range from beginner-friendly to those designed for advanced skiers. 

You’ll find 21 lifts at the runs, which means you will never have to wait long to get to the top of the mountain. If you need a little refresher before you hit the slopes, sign up for one of the skiing or snowboarding lessons. 

Killington Ski Resort receives an average of 250 inches of snow per year, which makes it popular for skiing, snowmobiling, sleigh rides, tubing, and snowshoeing. However, it’s also a great destination for warmer months, with hiking, mountain biking, golfing, and ATV tours available. 

16. Explore a Rural Village at Calvin Coolidge State Historic Site

If you’re a history enthusiast, Vermont’s Calvin Coolidge State Historic Site is a fascinating attraction where you can explore the birthplace and boyhood home of Calvin Coolidge. The village of Plymouth Notch is preserved as it was when the 30th President of the United States lived here in 1923! 

It’s considered one of the best-preserved presidential birthplaces in the country, as it’s remained virtually unchanged since the early 1900s. History buffs will love exploring the rural Vermont village, which includes the homes of Coolidge’s family and neighbors as well as a general store, church, cheese factory, and 1924 Summer White House office. 

Several of the buildings here are open to the public, including the surrounding grounds and gardens. You can even see where Coolidge is buried in the town cemetery along with seven generations of his family. 

Inside the Coolidge Museum & Education Center, you can experience more of Coolidge’s life. Hear his own words, admire objects from his life, and browse the interactive, multimedia exhibits that include newsreels of how he became the President of the United States. 

17. Meet Local Cheese Makers on the Vermont Cheese Trail

As delicious as you’d imagine, the Vermont Cheese Trail is an absolute must for food lovers. Vermont is known for its delectable dairy products, and there’s no better way to immerse yourself in the state’s most popular products than to follow this tasty journey. 

With over 50 options on the list, you’re spoiled for choice with stops. However, along the 280-mile loop that runs from Plymouth Notch to the Canadian border, there are a few favorites. 

Start your trip at Plymouth Artisan Cheese , as it’s the second-oldest cheese factory in the United States and has been producing high-quality cheeses for over 125 years. Next, stop at Three Shepherds Cheese , which uses cow and sheep’s milk to make its artisan cheeses, including specialty feta. 

Shelburne Farms is another favorite, with its 1,400-acre farm creating delicious cheddar cheese. For unique, French-style semi-soft cheeses that aren’t found easily in the US, head to Spoonwood Cabin Creamery to see how they make cheese from organic Jersey cow’s milk. 

Don’t miss the award-winning Vermont Creamery , which specializes in goat cheese, fresh butter, and mascarpone. Lastly, Grafton Village Cheese Company is a giant cheese shop with cheese infused with raw milk, creating a creamy, smooth flavor not found in mass-produced cheeses. 

18. Hike Scenic Trails in Green Mountain National Forest

Adventure-seekers can get out and explore Green Mountain National Forest , one of only two national forests in New England. With over 400,000 acres of protected land extending from the southwestern region to central Vermont, this is one of the best places for a hiking adventure. 

You’ll find recreation available here year-round, with each season offering a unique experience in the scenic forest. While fall offers a glimpse of the state’s colorful fall foliage, winter sees a landscape of snow-covered trees. 

Many of its designated trails showcase the forest’s natural features, including its waterfalls, cliffs, and lakes. Lye Brook Falls Trail is a favorite just outside of Manchester with its cascading waterfall, while the hike up to Killington Peak offers panoramic views of the Green Mountains, Adirondacks, and the White Mountains. 

Advanced hikers can climb to the top of Equinox Mountain, the highest mountain in the Taconic Range. Alternately, the Long Trail is the oldest long-distance hiking trail in the United States and features 400 miles of rugged terrain. 

While hiking is the most popular outdoor activity here, you can also embark on a kayaking or canoeing excursion. Wildlife watching is also a favorite, as the forest is home to moose, deer, bears, coyotes, and wild turkeys. 

19. Explore One of New England’s Prettiest Villages

One of the most picturesque towns in Vermont, Grafton is considered a top destination in New England. Its quaint streets are lined with historic buildings that have been lovingly restored, while scenic trails, parks, shops, and galleries make it the perfect weekend getaway. 

Sitting at its centerpiece is the historic Grafton Inn . One of the country’s oldest operating inns, it has been open since 1801 and has previously hosted presidents, statesmen, and philosophers. A top-rated romantic retreat in Vermont, it features individually decorated rooms and top-notch dining. 

You’ll also find numerous family-friendly attractions in Grafton, including The Nature Museum with its beautiful gardens, walking paths, and nature-based programs. You can also tour Plummer’s Sugar House and taste its maple candy or browse the historic exhibits and artifacts at the award-winning Grafton Historical Society . 

When you want to stretch your legs, the Grafton Trails & Outdoor Center offers 2,000 acres of scenic land with hiking, mountain biking, and swimming in the summer, and skiing, tubing, and snowshoeing in the winter. Don’t leave without picking up a souvenir from Mercantile, which sells locally made gifts and home goods. 

20. Go Fly Fishing in Manchester

There’s nothing more peaceful than a quiet afternoon of fly fishing, and one of the best destinations to tick this activity off your list in Vermont is near Manchester. Of the top places, Battenkill River is full of trout and appeals to beginners and well-seasoned anglers alike. 

Battenkill River is one of the most famous trout streams in the Green Mountains and is teeming with brook trout and brown trout. Head here from the middle of May to the end of July for the best fishing. If you’re not experienced in fly fishing, it’s recommended to hire a guide so you can learn the ropes.

Other top fly fishing destinations in Vermont include the Black River, Lamoille River, and White River. In addition to scenic settings, these spots are known for their large variety of fish that lure in fishermen from across the state. 

You can also pop into the American Museum of Fly Fishing in Manchester, which is dedicated to preserving the rich heritage of fly fishing. Believing that angling is an important part of American culture, it boasts the world’s largest collection of angling and angling-related items, including rods, reels, flies, tackle, art, and photographs. 

21. Take a Step Back in Time at Bennington Battle Monument and Museum

​​If you’re a fan of history, don’t miss visiting the Bennington Battle Monument and Museum . Standing 306 feet high, the obelisk here is visible for miles around and commemorates the 1777 battle that was fought about five miles west of Bennington. 

Completed and dedicated in 1891, the monument observes the famous Battle of Bennington. Occurring on August 16, 1977, the battle was considered to be the turning point in the Revolutionary War. It’s said to have turned the tide against the British by splitting British General John Burgoyne’s forces in half, making the final American victory possible. 

Open from May through October, you can visit this iconic limestone monument and enjoy the views from its observation deck. Reached by elevator, it offers sweeping views of the valleys and rolling hills of Vermont as well as New York and Massachusetts on a clear day. 

You can also explore the nearby Bennington Museum , which highlights the region’s rich history. History buffs will want to browse its unique collection, including the famous Bennington Flag with its arch of 13 stars encircling the number “76.” In addition to artifacts from the colonial and Civil War periods, it’s also home to an impressive fine art collection. 

22. Go Brewery Hopping

Often considered the birthplace of the New England IPA, Vermont is a great destination for brewery hopping. Its craft beer scene is one of the best in the United States, leading the country in the number of craft breweries per capita! 

If you want to sample some of the state’s stand-out suds, add one of these spots to your Vermont bucket list. In Burlington, Foam Brewers offers an ever-changing line of beers that ranks it one of the best in the state. 

A popular choice in the hazy New England IPA movement, The Alchemist in Stowe is another favorite. Hill Farmstead Brewery in Greensboro Bend holds its own as one of the best breweries in the world, while Lawson’s Finest Liquids is a staple in Vermont’s craft beer scene. 

The Burlington-based Zero Gravity Craft Brewery is all about sustainability and community, raising awareness for social justice issues. However, if you’ve got a taste for European-style ales and lagers, head to Lost Nation Brewing in Morrisville to try their collection of specialty brews. 

23. Visit the Artsy Town of Brattleboro

Nestled near the Massachusetts state line, Brattleboro is one of Vermont’s top destinations. This artsy town has often been named one of the best small towns in America, beloved for its charming, lively downtown, eclectic restaurants, and thriving entertainment and arts scene. 

Start your journey in this quirky New England small town by exploring the charming downtown area. Dotted with adorable shops, art galleries, and restaurants, it’s also a great place to find one-of-a-kind treasures in its independent bookstores, record shops, and antique stores. 

Entertainment is plentiful in Brattleboro, with The Stone Church offering live jazz performances and the Art Deco Latchis Theatre known for its live shows. You have your pick of fun in this town, from admiring artwork in the Brattleboro Museum of Art Center to browsing the Brattleboro Area Farmers Market , a top-rated market in all of Vermont. 

In winter, the town becomes a great base for cross-country skiing and snowshoeing, with groomed trails at nearby Mount Snow , Magic Mountain , and Stratton Mountain . You can even head to Chester and hop on the Green Mountain Railroad for a scenic fall foliage train ride to Ludlow or Rockingham. 

Foodies can visit Grafton Village Cheese Co , which not only specializes in cheese but also offers handmade chocolates, candies, gourmet sauces, and more. Wash your treats down with a glass of bourbon at the riverside Saxtons River Distillery !

24. Pick Up Unique Treasures at Vermont Antique Mall

You can shop till you drop at the Vermont Antique Mall , which is a popular spot to find unique items. One of the main attractions in the Quechee Gorge Village, it’s home to over 100 vendors selling all kinds of locally made goods. 

Spread across three levels and 17,000 square feet, you can browse vendors selling everything under the sun. Expect to see toys, home goods, and collectibles, as well as food shops giving out samples. 

It’s the perfect place to go if you’re in need of a special gift or one-of-a-kind souvenir, as its booths are filled with an array of antique and vintage items. You’ll be taken aback by the stockpile of options, both large and small, spread across the mall. 

Head to the basement area to find a small selection of furniture, then peruse the upstairs to find everything from glassware and wooden bowls to antique cast iron cookware. You can also find clothing, jewelry, artwork, and much more among its nooks and crannies. 

25. Visit the Covered Bridges in Bennington County

You haven’t really explored Vermont if you haven’t seen its legendary covered bridges. While they are found throughout the state (there are more than 100), Bennington County is a great spot to photograph and admire these historic landmarks. 

Giving you a glimpse of a bygone age, Bennington County boasts five covered bridges. Take a road trip to see these beautiful feats of engineering, which were once used to protect the wood bridges from exposure to snow and rain, prevent horses from being spooked by the rivers beneath, and used as impromptu meeting places. 

Start by visiting the oldest covered bridge in Bennington County, the Silk Covered Bridge, which carries the Silk Road over the Walloomsac River. Next, visit the Paper Covered Bridge, the longest covered bridge in the area. 

The Burt Henry Covered Bridge also spans the Walloomsac River. Dating back to 1840, it has been an important crossing since colonial times but now serves as a great spot for picnicking along the riverbank. 

In Sunderland, Chiselville Covered Bridge sits high above the Roaring Branch River and was featured in the film Baby Boom . Lastly, the Arlington Green Covered Bridge is one of the most photographed in Vermont, with its picturesque backdrop featuring a local church and historic inn. 

There you have it! The 25 of the best things to do in Vermont. What’s your favorite thing to do in The Green Mountain State?

Planning a trip to Vermont? Check out our favorite books and travel guides!

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Frequently Asked Questions

Visiting Stowe is a must on any traveler’s Vermont bucket list, as this picture-perfect mountain resort town offers year-round adventures. Luring in nature lovers from across the country, it’s most loved for its small-town charm and abundant outdoor recreation, including skiing, hiking, mountain biking, and rock climbing opportunities.

If you’re looking for the ultimate Vermont road trip itinerary, add Route 100 to your things to do in the Green Mountain State. At over 200 miles long, it’s Vermont’s longest state highway and also one of the most loved due to its incredibly scenic views along the way.

While Vermont is full of impressive waterfalls, Moss Glen Falls is one of the best! Accessible via a short hike, it’s surrounded by some of the state’s most spectacular scenery. This popular waterfall hike is best seen between May and October. If you want an additional challenge with even better views, you can take the trail further up for a straight view of the falls.

Mount Mansfield is Vermont’s highest mountain and offers spectacular views from its summit. Adventure-seekers looking for a challenge will find a number of scenic routes to tackle at this year-round destination, which sits at nearly 4,440-feet high. One of the most popular ways to get to the top is via the Sun Ridge Hiking Trail, which starts from the base area at Stowe Mountain Resort. Typically taking hikers around 3-5 hours to complete, the reward includes sweeping panoramic views across Vermont’s impressive natural landscapes. On a clear day, you can capture views of Lake Champlain, the White Mountains, and the Adirondacks!

Not only does the Rock of Ages Quarry have a fun name, but it’s also one of the coolest things to do in Vermont! At this unique attraction, you can peer into the depths of the largest deep-hole quarry in the world. At a staggering 550 feet wide, a quarter-mile long, and 450 feet deep, a visit to this immense quarry offers a fun adventure with a few surprises.

Nicknamed the “Beast of the East,” Killington Ski Resort is a popular spot for winter sports in Vermont. The massive ski mountain not only boasts the highest vertical in New England, but it’s also the largest ski area on the east coast with over 1,500 acres. Ski enthusiasts will be impressed with the world-class slopes at this top-rated ski destination, where you’ll find runs that cater to all skill levels.

About the Author:

Born and raised in Florida, Charity moved to London after college and caught the travel bug. She then traveled full-time as a digital nomad for over a decade, living in the UK, New Zealand, China, and Thailand. With around 60-ish travel stamps in her passport, her favorite memories include skydiving in Switzerland, eating sushi in Japan, island hopping in the Philippines, and camping overnight in the Sahara Desert. She’s now a freelance writer living in Portugal with her husband and son.

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10 Best Places to Visit in Vermont

By Carl Austin · Last updated on October 3, 2023

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

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

10. Woodstock

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

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

9. Quechee Gorge

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

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

8. Manchester

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

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

7. Montpelier

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

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

6. Shelburne

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

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

5. Killington Resort

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

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

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

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

3. Champlain Islands

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

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

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

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

1. Burlington

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

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

Map of Places to Visit in Vermont

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January 2, 2020 at 11:50 am

Woodstock not listed in voting!!!

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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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14 Top-Rated Attractions & Things to Do in Burlington, VT

Written by Barbara Radcliffe Rogers Updated Dec 28, 2023 We may earn a commission from affiliate links ( )

Vermont's largest city – and only city of any size – lies in a beautiful location on a hillside overlooking Lake Champlain and the skyline of the Adirondack mountains, on the opposite shore in New York.

The thriving downtown reaches right to the shore, but its main shopping district is a few streets above on Church Street. There is almost always something happening in this broad, car-free space lined by shops and restaurants. Crowning the hill is the stately campus of the University of Vermont, which gives Burlington a young, hip vibe.

Don't expect a big city, but do expect to find a high concentration of arts and cultural attractions, as well as plenty of active options for tourists to enjoy. Burlington has a large population of artists and high-quality craftspeople, whose works you'll see in the many galleries and studios throughout the city and surrounding towns.

The Flynn Theater is a magnet for top national and international performers and music, and Burlington is home to the Vermont Symphony Orchestra, as well as music and theater groups at the university.

You'll have no trouble finding things to do here with our handy list of top tourist attractions in Burlington.

See also: Where to Stay in Burlington

1. Church Street Marketplace

2. lake champlain cruises, 3. echo leahy center, 4. waterfront park and burlington bike path, 5. flynn center for the performing arts, 6. south end arts district, 7. shelburne museum, 8. ethan allen homestead, 9. day trip to stowe, 10. day trip to smugglers notch, 11. robert hull fleming museum of art, 12. the hill and university of vermont, 13. lake champlain islands, 14. shelburne farms, where to stay in burlington for sightseeing, map of attractions & things to do in burlington, vt, burlington, vt - climate chart, more must-see destinations near burlington.

Although it's only four blocks long, Burlington's Church Street packs plenty of action into its short length. The traffic-free street is wide enough to accommodate large gatherings of people for the many festivals and events throughout the year, as well as providing plenty of space for cafés and restaurants to spill onto the pavement, creating the air of an Italian piazza.

Overlooking the street from the upper end is the church it's named for, the First Unitarian Universalist Church. Notice the granite line in the brick pavement, with stones engraved with cities around the world that lie close to the same longitudinal line.

Among the many shops that open onto Church Street is Frog Hollow Craft Center , known for its selection of the finest works of Vermont craftspeople. Permanent public art works include a life-sized statue of local jazz artist Big Joe Burrell; a sleek metal Fish Fountain; and a mural, Everyone Loves a Parade! by Canadian muralist Pierre Hardy.

Listed as a National Register Historic District, Church Street has also been named one of the Great Public Spaces in America.

Address: Church Street, Burlington, Vermont

Official site: www.churchstmarketplace.com

Lake Champlain stretches in a north-south line between Vermont and New York, with a small portion of the northern end in Canada. Its width varies from less than half a mile to 12 miles, and most of its waters are in Vermont. Spirit of Ethan Allen III offers sightseeing cruises on Lake Champlain with a narration on the Revolutionary War and other periods of the lake's history.

Lake Champlain's largest cruise ship, at 140 feet long, it can carry 363 passengers, and along with several daily sightseeing cruises in season, it offers lunch and dinner cruises, even occasional dance cruises.

Other boat excursions from Burlington's downtown docks include daily sailing cruises and longer private charters on classic Friendship Sloops.

Ferries cross several times daily in the summer and fall, between Burlington and Port Kent, NY, offering beautiful views of the mountains and lake. The ferry crossing takes about an hour.

Address: Burlington Boat House, College Street, Burlington, Vermont

Official site: http://soea.com

The ECHO Leahy Center, at the shore of the lake, features the natural history of the area, as well as the historical heritage of the Lake Champlain area. Permanent exhibits, many of them interactive, appeal to all ages as they explore the depths of the lake, showcase 15 frog species from six continents (including the world's most poisonous frog), and explore the geology of the Champlain Basin and the people who have lived in the region throughout history.

Kids can see themselves on TV at the Be a Watershed Weather Reporter studio, and young children have a hands-on discovery center all their own. The ECHO Leahy Center is one of the favorite things to do for families in Burlington.

The award-winning "green" building offers panoramic views of the Lake and Adirondack Mountains from its deck. Next to ECHO is the Lake Champlain Navy Memorial.

Address: 1 College Street, Burlington, Vermont

Official site: www.echovermont.org

A wide green swath of park with a bike path and promenade borders the lake shore, stretching some distance to the north and south of the town landing at the bottom of College Street. Near the docks, look for Vermont's only All-America Display Garden , where the newest varieties of flowering ornamental plants bloom all summer.

Waterfront Park is popular for running, cycling, walking, picnicking, and for frequent festivals throughout the summer and fall.

Above the shore, Battery Park lies at the top of Battery Street, marking the site of the battery built there in 1812. From this position, U.S. artillery fought British ships on Lake Champlain in August of 1813.

Much of Burlington's packed music and performance calendar is thanks to the Flynn Center's 1,411-seat auditorium. The Flynn is home to the Vermont Symphony Orchestra, the Vermont Youth Orchestra, the Vermont Stage Company, the Lyric Theatre, and the UVM Lane Series.

The variety is astonishing, and any season might bring programs as diverse as a Gospel choir, violinist Itzhak Perlman, Celtic Women, a classical ballet, a Broadway touring production of Hairspray , Bonnie Raitt, Al Franken, pre-Broadway musicals, a cirque acrobat troupe from Quebec, and Afro-pop superstar Angélique Kidjo.

Along with the Art Deco auditorium, a 180-seat cabaret space hosts more intimate performances. A gallery showcases the work of local artists.

Address: 153 Main Street, Burlington, Vermont

Official site: https://www.flynnvt.org/

A former industrial zone along the lakeshore south of the center has morphed into one of Burlington's liveliest art and dining scenes, filled with galleries, art spaces, and events. Your first stop should be the S.P.A.C.E Gallery , an art collective on Pine Street, where dozens of artists work and display their paintings, drawings, prints, collages, sculpture, photography, silver and stone jewelry, ceramics, and art in all media.

The S.P.A.C.E. Gallery holds monthly exhibits, with opening receptions during First Friday Art Walks, another feature of the South End Arts District. In September, and throughout the fall, the South End Art Hop in Space showcases more than 50 Vermont artists, providing the public a chance to purchase affordable works in all mediums directly from the artists. Look also for ArtsRiot, a music and restaurant hub in a converted warehouse.

Address: Pine Street, Burlington, Vermont

Official site: https://spacegalleryvt.com/

On the outskirts of Burlington, this large, open-air museum gathers original buildings from different eras of Vermont's past into a campus that doesn't pretend to be a real village, but shows each house, barn, and shop with period furnishings and the activities of rural life in its time.

The 39 historic buildings, even the historic lake steamer SS Ticonderoga – hauled here by rail and restored, are either furnished or used as display settings for some exceptional collections of decorative arts, paintings, folk art, and Americana.

The grounds include a railroad depot; private car and locomotive; covered bridge; jail; print shop; apothecary; schoolhouse; country store; meeting house; lighthouse; and a round barn, one of the few to survive in New England.

The two-room log Settlers' House shows Vermont life in the 1790s, with an open hearth fireplace, furnishings, and a vegetable garden. The reproduction barn houses demonstrations of early crafts and cooking.

Particularly outstanding among the collections are rare hatboxes, quilts, hooked rugs, costumes, decoys, tin and woodenware, 18th-century English furniture, and paintings. The latter represent not just American artists, but include the French Impressionists and even Rembrandt.

An entire horseshoe-shaped building was constructed just to display a 500-foot-long handmade circus parade. The round barn is used to showcase special exhibits.

Address: 6000 Shelburne Road, Shelburne, Vermont

Official site: http://shelburnemuseum.org/

On 1,400 acres of land north of the city is the farmhouse that was the home of Revolutionary War hero, Ethan Allen. Allen and his brother, Ira, were landowners under New Hampshire grants, which they defended ardently against New York's attempts to claim.

In the end, neither state could establish its authority, and the residents finally formed the Republic of Vermont, which later became the state. So along with being a hero of the Revolution, Allen became something of a folk hero in Vermont.

His home has been restored, and other farm buildings house archaeology and history exhibits. Hiking trails throughout his land have signage to explain the natural environment.

In the adjacent Ethan Allen Park , an observation tower reveals views over Lake Champlain and the surrounding area.

Address: 1 Ethan Allen Parkway, Burlington, Vermont

Official site: www.ethanallenhomestead.org

One of the top tourist attractions in Vermont , Stowe is an easy drive from Burlington. Follow Interstate 89 south to Waterbury and take Route 100, known as "The Skiers Highway" for the number of ski mountains it connects on its way through the state.

The classic New England town begs to be photographed, along with Mt. Mansfield, which forms the skyline to the northwest. Stowe's primary fame is as one of the nation's first ski resorts, and skiers still fill its inns and lodges in the winter.

But there are plenty of places to visit here year-round as well, with a beautiful bike and walking path through the valley and into the hills. Shoppers and art lovers can gallery hop to admire works of Vermont artists and craftspeople, and the Helen Day Arts Center features Vermont artists.

Learn the story of skiing here and elsewhere at the Vermont Ski Museum in the former church on Main Street, or ride the gondola at Stowe Mountain Resort to the summit of Mt. Mansfield.

For those who don't mind winding mountain roads, the trip through Smugglers Notch is an unforgettable one. High on the shoulder of Mt. Mansfield , Vermont's highest peak, Smugglers Notch is a narrow pass – so narrow, in fact, that the road closes in the winter because snowplows can't maneuver among the boulders that force the road to twist and squeeze between them. The road lies below 1,000-foot cliffs, the source of the gigantic boulders strewn throughout the pass.

Follow Route 15 through Jericho to Jeffersonville, from which Route 108 heads past Smugglers Notch Ski Area and into the notch. Stop at the Smugglers Cave information center near the top to read about the glaciers that dropped the boulders, and to explore the caves once used by smugglers. You can stop at other points to walk among the boulders.

On the University of Vermont campus, the Robert Hull Fleming Museum of Art features more than 20,000 objects in collections covering American, African, European, Ancient Egyptian, and Middle Eastern art, as well as work by Vermont artists. African artifacts represent the continent through sculpture and other media and include contemporary interpretations of traditional forms; the more than 400 ancient Egyptian objects include a mummy and coffin.

American art is especially strong in 19th- and 20th-century landscapes and works by artists active in Vermont since the mid-19th century, such as Audubon, Bierstadt, Winslow Homer, and Andy Warhol. European art is represented by Corot, Daumier, Dürer, Goya, and Rodin.

More than 2,000 objects from Native American cultures include bead- and quillwork, Southwest ceramics and baskets, masks from the Northwest Coast, and carvings. The Pre-Columbian collection is known for its ceramics, textiles, and stone carvings.

Address: 61 Colchester Avenue, Burlington, Vermont

Official site: http://www.uvm.edu/~fleming/

Main Street rises steadily from just above the lake shore to the hilltop campus of the University of Vermont (UVM), founded in 1791. Burlington's prosperous merchants and leaders built their stately homes and mansions on the upper slopes, above the commercial and waterfront areas, and many of the finest of these have been preserved and maintained as residences and as part of the smaller Champlain College.

Follow any of the streets to the right or left of Main Street to see examples of several architectural styles, mostly built in the latter half of the 19th century. Crowning the UVM campus is the ornate Williams Science Hall , a massive brick building with a granite block foundation. The Perkins Geology Museum displays fossils and minerals.

The Lake Champlain Islands, connected to each other and to the mainland north of Burlington by causeways and bridges, are summer recreation areas with beaches, campgrounds, and state parks. The irregular coastline of the islands creates a number of bays that are favorites for kayaking.

The gently undulating landscape is known for its apple orchards, and has the longest growing season in the state, thanks to the moderating influence of the lake. St. Anne's Shrine on Isle La Motte is at the site of Fort St. Anne, and there is also a statue of Samuel de Champlain on the island marking the spot where he supposedly landed in 1609.

Official site: www.champlainislands.com

Once a 3,800-acre agricultural estate, its landscape design inspired by Frederick Law Olmsted, Shelburne Farms was a model horse farm and a leader in agricultural innovation. The massive Farm Barn, constructed between 1886 and 1890, is five stories high, and the courtyard alone covers nearly two acres.

Today the farm is a non-profit dedicated to sustainability and quality of life on earth, with programs that foster individual awareness and stewardship. The barn houses a dairy, where you can watch the making of the farm's award-winning cheese from the milk of the farm's pasture-raised herd of brown Swiss cows. A Sun to Cheese Tour follows the entire story of the farm's self-sustaining cheese production.

In summer, the Formal Gardens overlooking Lake Champlain are among the finest example of American gardens, especially beautiful in mid-June, when the peonies are in full bloom.

Programs for children and adults include introduction to maple sugaring, using native plants, bird conservation, medicinal plants, herbal teas, and a gardener's tour of the Formal Gardens. There is a Children's Farmyard and 10 miles of walking trails.

Address: 1611 Harbor Road, Shelburne, Vermont

Official site: https://shelburnefarms.org

Burlington's lively urban buzz centers on the pedestrianized Church Street, with its restaurants, cafés, and shops, and the Flynn Center for the Performing Arts across the street. Just down the hill are more things to do at Lake Champlain, with its parks, bike path, science center, and watersports. Burlington is a good base for visiting tourist attractions in the area, including the Champlain islands and Shelburne Museum. Here are some highly rated hotels in Burlington:

Luxury Hotels :

• A block from pedestrianized Church Street and close to lakefront parks, Hotel Vermont is hip, modern, minimalist, and green, with a strong use-local ethic.
• Overlooking Lake Champlain, Courtyard Burlington Harbor is close to all the downtown attractions, and has a heated indoor pool, a state-of-the-art fitness center, and a seafood restaurant.

Mid-Range Hotels :

• Hilton Garden Inn Burlington Downtown is a block from Church Street and next to the Flynn Center, with valet parking and a pool.
• On a hillside overlooking the lake, Hilton Burlington Lake Champlain has a large indoor pool and sweeping views to the Adirondack Mountains.
• In South Burlington, DoubleTree by Hilton Burlington Vermont has a pool and free airport transportation, plus a complimentary shuttle to downtown. Rooms have refrigerators, coffee/tea machines, and work spaces.

Budget Hotels :

• South of downtown and convenient to lakeside parks and the Shelburne Museum, Smart Suites Burlington has kitchenettes, free breakfast, free parking, and several nearby restaurants.
• Comfort Inn & Suites South Burlington is at the I-89 interchange, just past the university, with balconies, full kitchens, free breakfast and parking, an outdoor pool, and airport shuttles.
• In South Burlington, Best Western Plus Windjammer Inn & Conference Center is an economical choice with in-room refrigerators, free Wi-Fi and parking.

One of the favorite things to do in Burlington in the winter is to head for one of Vermont's many ski areas , which – along with the ski resorts in neighboring New Hampshire – offer some of the best skiing in the Eastern United States .

In the summer, Vermont's Green Mountains are favorites for their many hiking trails . From Burlington, the views of the Adirondack Mountains in New York may tempt you to cross Lake Champlain, and just to the north is the border with Canada's French-speaking province of Quebec . The vibrant city of Montreal is less than a two-hour drive from Burlington.

More on Vermont

The Best Things to Do in Vermont in the Fall

By Author Tara Schatz

Posted on Published: August 7, 2023

The Green Mountain State shines in just about every season, but Vermont in the fall is special.

Autumn is when people travel from near and far to get a glimpse of the thrilling carpet of colors that blanket the mountains, forests, and fields starting in late September.

I’ve lived in Vermont for most of my life, and every fall is still a magical experience for me.

Those beautiful fall colors in Vermont sustain me through a winter that is always long and cold and often bleak and grey.

Every year in the fall I make it my mission to drop everything and explore this beautiful state I call home.

I’d love to share some of the things to do in Vermont in the fall before winter opens up a whole new set of opportunities.

I’m based in Southern Vermont , which is a road-trippers paradise, but the whole state deserves some serious explorations.

This guide explores quintessential Vermont fall foliage activities that visitors won’t want to miss and all the best places and things to do in Vermont in the fall.

But first I’d like to answer a few questions about Vermont fall foliage that I receive in multitudes via email or Facebook starting as early as June. 

Psst… Did you know that we run a Facebook group dedicated to all the best things to do in Vermont? It’s particularly active in the fall, as that’s the busiest season in Vermont for tourists. Join the group to ask questions, share photos, and immerse yourself in all things Vermont.

Table of Contents

When is Peak Foliage in Vermont?

This is the million-dollar question! If you are planning your Vermont fall foliage vacation in the summer, you want to know when to book your flight or hotel room so that you don’t miss the prime leaf-peeping season.

In my opinion, it’s better to be a bit early for the fall foliage season in Vermont because you can always go up in elevation to experience more vibrant colors. If you are visiting the mountains, which run north to south through the middle of Vermont, I suggest visiting in early October, especially if you are traveling to the Northeast Kingdom or Stowe.

If you are visiting Southern Vermont, the Lake Champlain Valley, or the Connecticut River Valley for Vermont fall foliage, I would suggest coming during the second week of October.

Unfortunately, Mother Nature doesn’t follow a strict calendar, so there are variations in Vermont fall foliage colors that will depend on temperatures and rainfall.

Based on averages from year-to-year, I would say that the second weekend in October is the sweet spot and the best time to visit Vermont in the fall, but the trend has also skewed toward late colors over the past few years.

Where are the Best Places to See Vermont Fall Foliage?

Another question that I am asked over and over again, is where the best places are to experience Vermont Fall Foliage. Three-quarters of Vermont is covered by forests – vibrant maples, stately oaks, and colorful ash, birch, and larch.

There are so many beautiful back roads in Vermont, and I guess my first suggestion would be to ditch the GPS and pick up a Delorme Gazetteer for Vermont and New Hampshire.  

Some of my favorite back roads to explore are in the Cambridge/Jeffersonville/Underhill area, the Northeast Kingdom, and Bennington County.

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

No matter where you go in Vermont, you’ll enjoy small-town hospitality, local treats, and quirky attractions. You can drive from one end of Vermont to the other in under four hours, so if you choose a home base in the north and in the south, you should be able to cover a lot of ground!

Read Next: A 5-Day Fall Foliage Road Trip on Scenic Route 100 in Vermont

If you are interested, I also have a post about the best places to take fall foliage photos in southern Vermont .

One of my favorite back roads to travel on during fall foliage in Vermont is Kelly Stand Road from Arlington to Stratton. I do it every year, stopping at Grout Pond to hike around the lake and capture the fall foliage reflections with my camera.

No matter where you travel in Vermont, you will find fall foliage that will take your breath away, I promise!

The fall foliage season is the most popular time to visit Vermont. It’s a mixed blessing for travelers. On the one hand, Vermont in the fall is incredibly beautiful, and every town and village wants you to visit.

There are festivals, sidewalk sales, and special events all over the state to celebrate autumn in Vermont, and to celebrate you, the traveler who is coming to spend money at local Vermont businesses.

On the other hand, visiting Vermont in the fall means more traffic on back roads, not to mention a harder time booking rooms and making dinner reservations.

Is it worth it? Absolutely! I urge you to immerse yourself in Vermont’s most colorful season and try the following excursions – the best places to go and the best things to do in Vermont in the fall.

Discover Fall in Stowe, Vermont and the Surrounding Communities

Stowe is a small mountain town that attracts visitors year-round, and there are a lot of incredible things to do here in all four seasons.

Winter might be the busiest time in Stowe, thanks to the renowned skiing at Stowe Mountain Resort, but fall is equally appealing in Stowe.

If you are visiting Vermont for a fall vacation and don’t have a lot of time to spend, my suggestion is to make Stowe or nearby Waterbury your home base for the weekend.

While you’re in the area, be sure to check out the mountain towns and villages that make this part of Vermont so special. Drive the back roads and don’t be afraid to get a little lost.

Here are our favorite Vermont fall attractions near Stowe.

Hike or Drive up Mount Mansfield, Vermont’s Tallest Peak

Mount Mansfield got its name because when viewed from the east, it resembles the profile of a giant, sleeping face.

Reaching 4,394 feet at the chin, this is one of only two places in Vermont where you’ll find an arctic-alpine tundra ecosystem, complete with a plethora of tiny, rare plants that can only be found in such high, windswept climates as this – unless, of course, you want to travel to the far reaches of our continent’s northern borders.

More than 40,000 visitors flock to the top of Mount Mansfield each year, and that’s because you can drive to the top on the auto toll road from Stowe Mountain Resort.

This is a fun option if hiking isn’t your thing or you’re in a hurry, but it doesn’t hold a candle to leaves crunching under your boots, and the mesmerizing silence of the forest, blazing with autumn splendor.

There are a few trails up to the top of Mount Mansfield, but I recommend starting in Underhill State Park and hiking the Sunset Ridge Trail. This is a strenuous hike, but the views make it worth every drop of sweat. You can make a loop by combining Sunset Ridge with Vermont’s iconic Long Trai l for a 6-mile loop.

Mount Mansfield is a true gem and one of the most beautiful places to hike during the Vermont fall foliage season.

Looking for an easier hike? Here are some easy and moderate hikes in Stowe with gorgeous views!

Take a Mini Fall Foliage Road Trip through Smuggler’s Notch and Beyond

Not only is Route 108 through Smuggler’s Notch one of the most beautiful roads in the state but it’s got a pretty interesting history too. 

In the early 1800s, the United States Government put an embargo on imports from England. The British started shipping goods to Canada, and smugglers used the caves around the area that is now Smuggler’s Notch Pass to store the booty.

The heavily wooded paths in the Notch made the perfect route for smuggling these goods during the War of 1812.

Fast forward to prohibition and Smuggler’s Notch was again used by smugglers who brought alcohol down from Canada to sell throughout New England. The most well-used path was eventually replaced with a seasonal road.

As long as you aren’t driving a large RV, tour bus, or semi, you can drive up through the Notch. There are places to pull off and explore, plus a few trailheads.

The hike to Bingham Falls starts just across the road from Smuggler’s Notch State Park, and the trailhead to Sterling Pond is right in the Notch. Both hikes are amazing and not too difficult.

For a quick fall foliage road trip that can be completed in about an hour (without stops), take Route 108 north out of Stowe, drive through Smuggler’s Notch, turn right onto Route 15 in Jeffersonville, drive through Johnson, turn right onto Route 100 in Morrisville, and head back into the village of Stowe.

Be sure to stop in all of these adorable villages for shopping, dining, and the friendliest Vermonters!

Smuggler’s Notch is a must-visit attraction in all four seasons, but it’s especially lovely in the fall.

Explore Stowe Village

While you’re in Stowe, be sure to meander around town – it won’t take long. Quaint shops, breweries, and restaurants line the streets, all with a gorgeous mountain backdrop. Stowe is one of the most popular towns to visit in Vermont, and the most beautiful.

In Stowe, visit the Vermont Ski and Snowboard Museum, walk on the Stowe Recreation Path, and hike up to Sunset Rock, for – you guessed it – the sunset. Pop into Black Cap Coffee for lunch or an afternoon espresso, and treat yourself to dinner at Idletyme Brewing (great outdoor seating and fantastic onion rings).

Visit Waterbury, Vermont

Waterbury is even smaller than the town of Stowe, but there are a few awesome spots that you have to visit before leaving the area. It’s located just south of Stowe Village on Route 100.

For beautiful mountain and lake views, visit Waterbury Center State Park . You can hike along Waterbury Reservoir on a short nature trail – 1/2 mile and very easy.

Next, stop at the world-famous Ben & Jerry’s Factory for a tour. Sample some divine ice cream, and be sure to visit the Flavor Graveyard, where you can pay homage to your long-lost ice cream loves.

Not far from Ben & Jerry’s is another iconic spot. Cold Hollow Cider Mill is known for having some of the best cider donuts in the state, not to mention hard and soft cider and an amazing gift shop.

Where to Stay in Stowe or Waterbury in the Fall

• Tälta Lodge Bluebird: Our new favorite place to stay in Stowe, this beautiful lodge is located on the Mountain Road with the river flowing behind the property. You can easily access the Stowe Recreation Path and Smuggler’s Notch is just up the road. Rooms come with an outdoor seating area, and there is an indoor pool and sauna. New for 2023: The Stuga Cottages at Tälta Lodge , which feature private patios, 425 square feet of living space, and a kitchenette.
• The Trapp Family Lodge : The Trapp Family, fictionalized in The Sound of Music , fled Austria during World War II and landed in this beautiful Vermont town. The lodge that you can visit today isn’t the original Trapp Family Lodge, but it’s still a beautiful and historic landmark, with hiking and mountain-biking trails, and lovely accommodations. It’s a perfect jumping-off point for your Vermont vacation.
• Grey Fox Inn : This lovely inn is located within walking distance of shopping and restaurants in Stowe Village. Amenities include indoor and outdoor pools, a hot tub, and a sauna. You can access the Stowe Recreation Path from the property and the views aren’t bad either. Book a room, suite, or condo for your fall foliage vacation.

Explore Burlington, Vermont in the Fall

Burlington, Vermont is about 45 minutes west of Stowe, and another must-visit stop on your fall foliage road trip through Vermont. Burlington is perched on a hill above the expansive waters of Lake Champlain.

Located in a valley with its own microclimate, fall foliage comes a bit later to this part of Vermont. Colors start to turn in mid-October around Burlington and you will likely see beautiful fall foliage into early November.

Burlington is Vermont’s largest city, but it’s still small as far as cities go. While the foliage-viewing opportunities are a bit more limited here, there’s still a lot to see and do.

Here are some of our favorite things to do in Burlington, Vermont in the fall.

Watch a Lake Champlain Sunset over the Adirondacks

A Lake Champlain sunset is just about the most stunning thing I’ve ever seen. No matter how many times I watch the sun sink behind the Adirondacks, turning my favorite lake shades of orange and red, I still catch my breath to glimpse such beauty.

There are lots of places to watch the sunset in Burlington, especially if you’re riding the Burlington Bike Path .

The paved trail hugs the water for most of its eight miles, connecting riders to several lovely parks and beaches. Start in the south end at Oakledge Park, and work your way to North Beach or the mouth of the Winooski River.

You can also catch a pretty amazing sunset from the waterfront right in town or from Oakledge Park, where there are rocky bluffs to perch with a picnic.

Shop till You Drop at the Church Street Marketplace

The bustling Church Street Marketplace is a pedestrian-only shopping and dining area that spans several blocks downtown. Aside from an incredible number of shops, downtown Burlington also has great restaurants and breweries. Here are my recommendations for divine culinary creations in Burlington.

• Coffee and Pastries: August First – You have to try those maple biscuits!
• Breakfast: The Grey Jay on Pearl Street – Fantastic donuts, breakfast sandwiches, and coffee!
• Lunch: The Farmhouse Tap and Grill – Open from 10 am to 10 pm (11 pm on Fridays and Saturdays), The Farmhouse Tap and Grill is the place to go for locally-sourced comfort food and small plates. It’s located in downtown Burlington and only takes reservations for parties of 7 or more.
• Dinner: Honey Road – Eastern Mediterranean fare in a small space. Reservations are a must!

Read Next: Easy Hikes Near Burlington, Vermont

More Places to Visit in Burlington During the Vermont Foliage Season

• The Burlington Farmers’ Market . Every Saturday from 9 to 1. With over 90 vendors and awesome live entertainment, this hoppin’ market is consistently rated as one of the best farmers’ markets in the country. The market is located at 345 Pine Street in the South End.
• The Spirit of Ethan Allen . Get out on Vermont’s biggest lake with a sunset or dinner cruise on the Spirit of Ethan Allen. Cruises depart several times a day from the Burlington Boathouse at the bottom of College Street.
• The ECHO Lake Aquarium and Science Center . This a must if you have kids, but it’s pretty awesome no matter how old you are. Get up close and personal with some of Lake Champlain’s coolest critters, learn about the forces that shaped this beautiful landscape, and check out the awesome traveling exhibits.

Where to Stay in Burlington, Vermont for Fall Foliage

Burlington is a thriving and walkable city, and when it’s within the budget, I always try to reserve a hotel room right downtown so I can walk everywhere. There’s nothing like stepping out of your door in the morning for a brisk waterfront walk or a saunter to the nearest coffee shop.

Hotel Vermont , while on the pricey side, this boutique hotel gets five stars for its location. It’s a stone’s throw from Lake Champlain and close to all of the best downtown shopping and dining. Just remember, you will need to reserve a room far in advance during the fall foliage season.

Hilton Garden Inn : We stayed here for the first time in 2019 and really loved the Main Street location, the funky vibe, and the outdoor fire pit. There is good parking, the beds are comfy, and there’s an indoor pool. Again, reserve early for the best rooms and prices.

If you are visiting Burlington, Vermont in the fall with a family or want something that won’t hit your wallet quite so hard, you may want to reserve an apartment on VRBO.

We have stayed at three downtown apartments in Burlington so far, and have been impressed with all of them. There are short-term rental restrictions in the city of Burlington, so your choices may be limited.

Here’s a quick overview of our favorite Burlington vacation rentals:

• Lakeview Terrace: This is a two-bedroom apartment overlooking Lake Champlain with a fabulous backyard. What more could you want? The Old North End location is perfect for families, and there are lots of parks and playgrounds nearby.
• Renovated South End Carriage House: The Carriage House apartment is a recently renovated space with a private entrance on a quiet residential street. Just a block away from Zero Gravity Brewery, and within walking distance of local beaches and Churchstreet. Sleeps four comfortably.
• One Bedroom Duplex Downtown: Walk to everything from this small one-bedroom apartment with room for four people. Uniquely situated with a private covered deck and off-street parking.

Finally, I have to share one quirky gem with you. The Starlight Inn in Colchester is a movie-themed motel located right next to the iconic Sunset Drive-In Theater. I’ve been catching flicks at the Sunset Drive-Inn since I could walk, and Starlight Inn guests receive complimentary tickets for one car and all its occupants.

Another thing to love about the Starlight Inn? Every room is unique and all of them feature a different movie theme. This is a super fun lodging experience for movie buffs and kids. Colchester is located about 15 minutes from Burlington.

Visit Bennington County, Vermont in the Fall

Of course, I am biased – Bennington, Vermont has been my hometown for the past 16 years, and I believe it’s one of the best places to visit in Vermont in the fall.

Bennington is a small community, with a historic downtown area, beautiful scenery, and lots of opportunities for recreation.

Here are a few things you shouldn’t miss while visiting Bennington, Vermont in the fall.

Explore the Covered Bridges of Bennington County

Vermont boasts more than 100 covered bridges, the highest number per square mile in the United States. Bennington County, in the southwest corner of Vermont, is home to five, all relatively close to each other.

You’ll find three covered bridges in Bennington/North Bennington and two more in Arlington. They all feature authentic construction, but some have been rebuilt over the years. The Arlington bridges are both perched above fabulous swimming holes if you happen to be meandering on a hot, summer day. 

Even if covered bridges aren’t your thing, I urge you to visit this corner of Vermont  in the fall, where you’ll find rolling hills, bustling farm stands, art galleries, museums, and shopping opportunities.

The Appalachian and Long Trails share a single path through these mountains, and both Robert Frost and Norman Rockwell called Bennington County Home at one time. You can even visit Robert Frost’s grave behind the Old First Church in Old Bennington.

Vermont Fall Foliage Sites in Bennington County

• Woodford State Park . It’s true — we’re attracted to out-of-the-way corners, and this is one of our favorite spots for quiet hiking, kayaking, and swimming. Woodford State Park is tucked away in the mountains and sees very few visitors. A quiet lake surrounded by lush forest is the main attraction, but you’ll also find hiking trails and a quiet campground within the park. On really quiet evenings we’ve seen moose and otters, and we hear the fishing is pretty good too.
• Bennington Battle Monument. This is Vermont’s most popular historic site , but we’ve never encountered a full parking lot. Finished in 1891 to commemorate the Battle of Bennington (August 16, 1777), the monument towers 306 feet over the town and is the tallest building in the state. Take a quick elevator ride to the top and enjoy the panoramic views of the town, valleys, and mountains that make this place so special. Don’t forget your camera.
• Lye Brook Falls , Manchester : An easy 2.3-mile hike on a beautiful, forested trail will take you to a lovely waterfall in the Green Mountains. The trail is dog and kid-friendly, and the woods are especially spectacular during fall foliage.
• BATS: The Bennington Area Trail System is a network of trails on the side of Mt. Anthony in Bennington, and you won’t find better views anywhere. Trails range from a walk in the park to steep climbs up the mountain.

Also read: The Best Easy Hikes in Southern Vermont

Where to Stay in Bennington County, Vermont for Fall Foliage

Bennington County has two shires, Manchester in the north and Bennington in the south. It’s about a half-hour drive between the two, so you don’t necessarily want to be hopping between them constantly during your visit. There are lots of lodging choices in both towns.

In Bennington, The Four Chimneys Inn is an iconic New England Inn that will perfectly complement your Vermont fall vacation. Each room is beautifully decorated, breakfast is beyond incredible, and you can walk to all the historic attractions in Old Bennington. 

If you want to hang your hat in Manchester, check out the sprawling Kimpton Taconic Hotel, which is dog-friendly and within walking distance of shopping, dining, and hiking trails in Manchester Village.

Finally, if you want the best of both worlds, stay in this delightful vacation rental in Shaftsbury , between Manchester and Bennington. It has an amazing hot tub, is beautifully decorated, sleeps five, and it’s pet-friendly. This is also one of the most awesome vacation rentals we’ve ever had the pleasure of staying in!

Explore Woodstock, Vermont in the Fall

Woodstock is a quintessential New England Village on the eastern slope of the Green Mountains. This is a busy tourist area, but if you don’t mind leaf-peeping among friendly strangers, you’ll be in good company!

In Woodstock, you can explore five covered bridges, discover Vermont’s only national park, and visit a general store that’s been operating since 1886. This gem of a town makes a great home base while you explore all the best things to do in Vermont in the fall.

Here’s a local’s guide to the best things to do in Woodstock, Vermont in the fall , as well as the neighboring village of Quechee.

We’ve included our favorite tourist attractions, places to stay, and of course, our favorite hiking trails — because we obviously can’t talk about things to do in fall without mentioning our favorite autumn activity. 

Where to Stay in Woodstock, Vermont

Here are our top picks for places to stay in Woodstock and Quechee.

Woodstock Inn & Resort :  This posh resort is located in Woodstock Village, within walking distance of everything downtown. It’s the perfect spot for a special weekend, or fall getaway when you can take advantage of all the best things to do in Woodstock VT.

506 On the River Inn:   Featuring rooms with panoramic river and garden views, 506 On the River Inn features an indoor pool and sauna, gym and kids’ game rooms, and a restaurant.

Log Cabin Apartment in Woodstock:  Walk to everything from this beautiful apartment with room for four guests. This special spot is located in a wooded setting but is just a 1/4-mile to downtown. There’s a full kitchen if you don’t want to dine out in Woodstock.

Historic Cottage on a Vineyard:   A beautiful, 900-square-foot cottage on Gilbert’s Hill with access to hiking trails. The space includes two bedrooms, one bathroom, a full kitchen, and a private deck overlooking the vineyard.

Resources for Visiting Vermont in the Fall

The whole state becomes a tourist attraction during the Vermont fall foliage season, but it’s still worth coming!

If you are planning to visit Vermont during a weekend in October, make your reservations as early as possible. We find the best hotel deals on booking.com or by contacting the hotel directly.

Here are some more resources for planning your Vermont fall foliage vacation:

• Airports: Burlington International Airport is closest to the Champlain Valley, Stowe, and the Northeast Kingdom. If you are traveling to southern Vermont, your best bet is to fly into the Albany International Airport in New York.
• Where to Stay:  Vermont has lots of independent hotels and motels to choose from. If you want more space to spread out, you’ll be happy to know that there are lots of vacation rentals in Vermont for very reasonable rates.
• Vermont Peak Foliage Reports: You can get Vermont fall foliage reports delivered to your inbox by signing up at the Vermont Vacation website .

More Things to Do in Vermont

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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.

Saturday 24th of September 2022

I’m from Hawaii. How can I enjoy in Vermont? Any info will help.

Thursday 11th of August 2022

Which town would you recommend to use as a "base camp" for the last two weeks of Oct. We'll be driving the scenic routes during the day, then park the car and walk to restaurants or pubs in the night.

Tara Schatz

Friday 12th of August 2022

I think you will have the best colors in southern Vermont during the last two weeks of October, so I would look into Bennington, Manchester, or Brattleboro to use as your base camp. All of those will have restaurants and pubs that you can walk to from your lodging.

Sharlene Ansley

Friday 22nd of July 2022

We may be possibly flying in on September 10 leaving 14 th would their be any good fall colors or is that way to early. I really want to make sure we get the most beautiful views because we will probably only get to make the trip once so would that be an okay time or would it be better to plan on a different time

Hi Sharlene - Honestly, I would reschedule for early to mid-October. The foliage will still be pretty green in mid-September, with colors starting to turn in the far north. By early October, the higher elevations and far north will be lovely, and the rest of the state will follow by mid-October. Hope that helps.

Thursday 21st of July 2022

I want to move to Vermont ., buy a large piece of property and build a new traditional home. Do you have contact with a realtor who could contact me. I have been going through different sales, but I like speaking with someone directly. Everything you have been showing and talking about makes me want to buy the whole state of Vermont.

My phone number is 714 536 2743. I live in Huntington Beach, CA. I was originally from Milwaukee, Wisconsin and I have lived here for a very long time always remembering the season changes.

Thanh you in advance for any help you can give me.

Corinne Welch

Thursday 23rd of June 2022

When do the restaurants & shops close for the winter? Also, is Vermont experiencing a labor shortage? Thanks!

Sunday 26th of June 2022

It totally depends on the shops and restaurants. Places that are truly seasonal may close after the second week in October, but lots of places are open year-round as Vermont gets a lot of winter tourists. Yes, we are experiencing a labor shortage and it is affecting the travel/tourism industry.