tourism vermont summer

19 Fantastic Things to Do in Vermont in the Summer

By Author Tara Schatz

Posted on Published: May 11, 2023

Categories Destinations , New England USA , United States , Vermont

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Lake Champlain: America’s Sixth Great Lake

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

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

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

Lake Willoughby: Vermont’s Deepest Lake

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

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

Lake Bomoseen: The Largest Lake Entirely Within Vermont

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

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

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

Take a Hike

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

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

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

Listen to Live Music Outdoors

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

How to Find Live Music in Vermont

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

Indulge in a Vermont Creemee or Ice Cream

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

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

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

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

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

Drive to the Top of a Vermont Mountain

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Meet Friendly Farm Animals at Local Farms

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

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

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

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

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

Shop the Famous Church Street Marketplace in Burlington

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

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

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

Go Mountain Biking in the Green Mountains

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

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

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

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

Cycle, Jog, or Walk the Island Line Trail

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

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

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

Visit One of Vermont’s Many Historic Sites

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

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

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

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

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

Check out an Outdoor Sculpture Park

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

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

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

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

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

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

Visit the Exhibits at Shelburne Museum

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

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

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

Ride Vermont’s Longest Rail Trail

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

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

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

Tour Vermont Covered Bridges

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

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

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

Drive One of Vermont’s Scenic Byways

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

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

Relax Near a Vermont Swimming Hole

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

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

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

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

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

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

Explore the Green Mountain National Forest

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

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

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

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

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

Take a Sunset Cruise on Lake Champlain

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

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

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

Learn How Maple Syrup is Made

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

ONEEARTHHOTELS

Tuesday 16th of May 2023

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

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What to Do in Vermont This Summer

By Alyssa Giacobbe

Stowe & Waterbury

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

Burlington & Lake Champlain

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

The 30-room Woodstock Inn.

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

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

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25 Top Things to Do in Vermont

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Lake Champlain

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

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

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

Courtesy of Ben & Jerry's

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

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

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

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

Island Line Trail

Courtesy of Hello Burlington and Local Motion

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

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

Experience the sugarhouses

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

[Read: The Top Romantic Getaways in Vermont .]

Try out a delicious creemee

Courtesy of Canteen Creemee Company

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

Breweries and beer trails

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

Vermont Teddy Bear

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

Address: 6655 Shelburne Road, Shelburne, VT 05482

Simon Pearce Flagship

Courtesy of Simon Pearce

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

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

Hit the ski slopes in Stowe and beyond

Courtesy of Stowe Mountain Resort

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

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

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

Trapp Family Lodge

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

Address: 700 Trapp Hill Road, Stowe, VT 05672

Vermont Cheese Trail

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

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

Liberty Hill Farm

Courtesy of Liberty Hill Farm

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

Address: 511 Liberty Hill, Rochester, VT 05767

General stores

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

Visit the former house and grave of Robert Frost

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

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

Grafton Inn

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

Address: 92 Main St., Grafton, VT 05146

Shelburne Museum

Courtesy of Shelburne Museum

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

Address: 6000 Shelburne Road, Shelburne, VT 05482

Basin Harbor

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

Address: 4800 Basin Harbor Road, Vergennes, VT 05491

The Tyler Place Family Resort

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

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

Address: 175 Tyler Place, Swanton, VT 05488

Woodstock Inn & Resort

Courtesy of Woodstock Inn & Resort

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

Address: 14 The Green, Woodstock, VT 05091

Northeast Kingdom

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

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

Marsh-Billings-Rockefeller National Historical Park

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

Address: 54 Elm St., Woodstock, VT 05091

Courtesy of Twin Farms

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

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

Address: 452 Royalton Turnpike, Barnard, VT 05031

The Essex, Vermont's Culinary Resort & Spa

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

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

Address: 70 Essex Way, Essex, VT 05452

The Coffee Roost

Courtesy of Vermont Artisan Coffee & Tea

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

Address: 11 Cabin Lane, Waterbury Center, VT 05677

You might also be interested in:

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

Tags: Travel , New England Vacations , US Vacations

World's Best Places To Visit

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

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Top Vermont Attractions

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20 Top-Rated Attractions & Places to Visit in Vermont

Written by Barbara Radcliffe Rogers Updated Jun 23, 2023

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

2. Church Street Marketplace

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Address: Church Street, Burlington, Vermont

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

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

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

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

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

Address: 1005 Hildene Road, Manchester, Vermont

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Address: Route 4, Quechee, Vermont

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

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

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

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

Address: Route 9, Bennington, Vermont

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

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

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

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

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

Address: River Road, Woodstock, Vermont

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Address: 69 Old River Road, Woodstock, Vermont

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Address: Route 9, West Brattleboro, Vermont

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

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

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

Address: Route 100, Waterbury, Vermont

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

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

Address: 6000 Shelburne Road, Shelburne

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

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

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

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

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

Address: 1302 Main Street, St. Johnsbury, Vermont

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

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

Address: 1 Montshire Road, Norwich, Vermont

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

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

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

Address: 558 Graniteville Road, Graniteville, Vermont

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

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

Address: 1 Park Street, North Bennington, Vermont

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

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

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

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

More Related Articles on PlanetWare.com

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

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

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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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95 of the Absolute Best Things to do in Vermont

By Author Tara Schatz

Posted on Published: February 29, 2024

Whether you’re a die-hard adventurer, a foodie traveler, or a meandering road tripper, you’ll find no shortage of amazing things to do in Vermont.

Yes, Vermont is one of the smallest states, both geographically and by population, but it’s got a lot going for it, and if you add these items to your Vermont bucket list, you’ll never run out of things to do!

First of all, you can drive from one end of the state to the other in about three hours.

Regions in Vermont are small and easy to explore, and Vermont has the four-season thing pretty much nailed down. You can expect oodles of fluffy white snow in the winter, breathtaking fall foliage in autumn, and sweltering heat in the summer.

Spring is full of wildflowers, and mud season is full of… well, you get the idea!

Here are all the best things to do in Vermont from a local who’s done them all.

We’ve sorted everything into categories — outdoors; art, history, and culture; eating and drinking; special events; and seasonal activities.

Bookmark this post, and you’ll never have to wonder what to do in Vermont ever again. You can also purchase an expanded version of this massive post in an easy-to-digest ebook !

Want a printable Vermont bucket list of all the best things to do in Vermont? Sign up below and we’ll send you one!

Table of Contents

Things to do in Vermont: Outdoors

Vermont takes its outdoor pursuits very seriously!

We’ve got hiking trails and biking trails, lakes and rivers for paddling, swimming, and fishing, and a whole mountain range to explore.

Whether you’re looking for a stroll through the woods, a magical sunset, or a backcountry escapade, Vermont will deliver.

Here are some fabulous things to do in Vermont when you want to get outside.

1. Watch a Magical Lake Champlain Sunset

Lake Champlain makes up much of the border between Vermont and New York, stretching 107 miles from West Haven all the way to the Canadian Border. From the Vermont side of the lake, visitors are treated to far-reaching views of the Adirondack Mountains, and when the sun sets, the combination of mountain peaks and a firey sky is not to be missed.

There are dozens of public access points to catch a fabulous sunset. My first choice is Oakledge Park in the south end of Burlington, but you can ride along the bike path between Oakledge and Colchester for sublime western views.

Outside of Burlington, catch the sunset from Button Bay State Park , Shelburne Farms , Mount Philo State Park , or Kill Kare State Park in St. Albans.

Also Read: The Best State Parks Near Burlington

2. Explore an Ancient Fossil Reef in the Lake Champlain Islands

Step back in time and explore one of the oldest known fossil reefs in the world!

Lake Champlain was once part of a tropical sea, and the fossilized plants and animals at the Chazy Reef are approximately 480 million years old. The Chazy Reef is just part of a 1,000-mile ridge from the ancient Iapetus Ocean that extends from Newfoundland to Tennessee.

You can visit  two preserves on Isle La Motte , the 20-acre Fisk Quarry Preserve and the 83-acre Goodsell Ridge Preserve.

3. Hike a Section of the Long Trail  – America’s Oldest Long-Distance Trail

Did you know that the Long Trail in Vermont was the first long-distance hiking trail in the United States?

This 272-mile trail follows the ridgeline of the Green Mountains from the Vermont-Massachusettes state line in the south to the Canadian border in the north. Volunteers began working on the Long Trail in 1912 when a route from Sterling Pond to Camel’s Hump was cleared.

Today, the beloved Long Trail is enjoyed by numerous backpackers and day hikers, who come to the woods to find solitude, challenge themselves, and escape the confines of modern life, if only for a short period.

You can enjoy the Long Trail too! No matter which part of Vermont you visit, you’re probably less than an hour’s drive from a trailhead that will connect you with the Long Trail.

And if hiking in Vermont is something you want to do again and again, check out the third edition of AMC’s Best Day Hikes in Vermont , authored by Yours Truly!

4. Canoe to a Remote Campsite on Green River Reservoir

There are a few remote camping spots in Vermont that you can only get to by kayak or canoe, but the most gorgeous spot has got to be Green River Reservoir State Park in Hyde Park.

This 653-acre lake is completely undeveloped, with 27 private campsites that require a one to two-mile paddle from the launch site.

Reserve your campsite ahead of time, and prepare for a summer adventure you won’t soon forget.

5. Ride Your Bike for 13 miles on the Island Line Rail Trail

Hug the eastern shore of Lake Champlain as you ride 13.4 miles from Oakledge Park in Burlington to the Colchester Causeway on the Island Rail Trail . This truly is one of the most beautiful bike paths in the country – the scenery is beyond gorgeous and there are numerous spots to swim along the way.

In the summer, riding your bike along Lake Champlain is absolutely one of the best things to do in Vermont.

Don’t have a bike of your own? You can rent one at Local Motion in downtown Burlington .

6. Hike to a Beautiful Vermont Waterfall

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

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

The good news is that most of Vermont’s most gorgeous waterfalls are easy to get to without much hiking, and some of them are also perfect for cooling off in the summer.

If you’re all about chasing waterfalls, be sure to purchase Vermont Waterfalls before your trip to Vermont.

7. Drive to the top of Vermont’s Tallest Mountain

That would be Mount Mansfield, at 4,395 feet.

There are several ways to hike to the top of Mount Mansfield, but only one way to drive to the top. The historic Auto Toll Road is maintained by Stowe Mountain Resort . The road to the top is 4.5 miles and not suitable for RVs, trailers, or motorcycles.

The Auto Toll Road in Stowe is open from late May to mid-October from 9:30 am to 4:30 pm. Tickets are $32 for the car and driver and $12.00 for each additional passenger.

8. Hike to the Top of Camel’s Hump

Camel’s Hump is another iconic peak in Vermont that requires a bit more work to get on top of.

Unlike Mount Mansfield, Camel’ Hump is completely undeveloped, and one of the best hikes in Vermont for peak baggers.

At 4,083, Camel’s Hump is the third tallest mountain in Vermont and one of just five peaks over 4,000 feet. It’s also one of just three alpine tundra zones in Vermont (Mt. Mansfield has alpine tundra as well).

Our favorite way to hike Camel’s Hump is to head up Burrows Trail to the Long Trail south , and then back to our car via Forest City Trail. This strenuous hike totals 5.3 miles.

9. Have a Picnic at the Zen Gardens in Taconic Mountains Ramble State Park

Taconic Mountains Ramble State Park is one of Vermont’s newest state parks, and we think it’s one of the most unique as well.

This is a day-use park without many amenities. There is a portable toilet near the parking area, but the rest of the property remains largely undeveloped. The Japanese garden is located down the hill from the parking area and is the perfect spot for a relaxing picnic.

The hiking trails up to Mount Zion Major or Mount Zion Minor are both short with big views at the end. You can do them both in under an hour.

10. Ski the East at a Vermont Ski Resort

If you’re a skier or snowboarder, you already know far more than I do about Vermont’s incredible mountain resorts. As a parent of kids who learned to ski on Vermont’s mountains, I can recommend a few places for family-friendly ski vacations.

My first choice would be Smuggler’s Notch , which has grown exponentially since I worked there while I put myself through college. Smuggs is a great spot for your very first ski vacation. I took a few lessons on the slopes at Smuggs before I realized that skiing was not my thing.

Want advice from people who know more about skiing than I do? Head over to Ski Vermont for information about skiing and snowboarding throughout Vermont.

11. Visit Vermont’s Only National Park Unit

Marsh-Billings-Rockefeller National Historical Park is located in Woodstock, Vermont within walking distance from historic Woodstock Village.

Part nature preserve, part history museum, the National Park Service calls this unique park, “the only national park to tell the story of conservation history and the evolving nature of land stewardship in America.”  

Visit this beautiful park to explore miles of woodland trails for free, or reserve a tour of the mansion, gardens, and/or grounds for a small fee.

12. Watch Hang Gliders on Mt. Ascutney

There are lots of reasons to visit Mount Ascutney in Windsor, Vermont . Not only can you hike to the top on one of four trailheads, but you can also drive to the top for neverending views that you don’t have to work for.

Mt. Ascutney is also one of the top hang-gliding destinations in New England. Even if you’re not a daredevil, you can often watch them take off from the summit platform and glide through the air. You can easily access the hang-glider launch on the west and south peaks from the summit parking lot.

Mt. Ascutney State Park is open from mid-May to mid-October. Day use is $5 for adults and $2 for kids, plus they have a small campground with tent sites, lean-tos, and cabins.

13. Bring Your Dog to Dog Mountain in St. Johnsbury

Dog Mountain  is set on 150 acres on a private mountaintop in St. Johnsbury, Vermont. The grounds are always open to people and their dogs, who are free to run off-leash, play, swim, and meet other dogs!

Visit this unique destination to explore the trails with your dog and visit the Dog Chapel, where people come from all over to pay tribute to dogs they have loved and lost.

Artwork by Dog Mountain creator, Stephen Huneck is available for sale in the gift shop, and special dog parties are held throughout the year.

If you’re traveling with a dog, this is one of the most fun and unique things to do in Vermont.

14. Look for the Lake Monster on Lake Champlain

If you’ve ever spent time in Burlington, Vermont, you have undoubtedly heard about Champ, which has been making appearances in Lake Champlain for two hundred years. 

Champ is said to be a relative of the Loch Ness Monster, and hundreds of people have spotted him since the first sighting in 1819. Historians think that Champ is probably a garfish, but he has also been described as an enormous serpent, with silvery scales.

Whether Champ makes his home in Lake Champlain or exists only in our imaginations, he is officially protected by both Vermont and New York.

15. Explore Vermont’s Little Grand Canyon

That would be Quechee Gorge, the deepest gorge in Vermont. This is a popular tourist attraction, and you can easily view the gorge by parking at the nearby visitor center and peering over the Route 4 bridge.

You can also hike down into the gorge from the visitor center or Quechee State Park.

Quechee Gorge is a popular swimming hole in the summer and the state park makes a great camping home base if you want to explore more of Quechee and Woodstock in the summer or fall.

16. Learn to Fly Fish at the Orvis Fly-Fishing School

One of the best things to do in Vermont for fishing enthusiasts is in Machester, Vermont, home to the Orvis Flagship Store and Fly-Fishing School. Head to school for a full day of perfecting your casting technique, setting up your rod, tying on the perfect fly, and safely releasing your catch.

Orvis provides expert instructors, access to a fully-stocked casting pond, and time on the famous Battenkill River. This is a beautiful setting and a unique opportunity for anglers of all ages and abilities.

Orvis fly-fishing classes are offered between April and October for one or two-day intensives. Be sure to visit the American Museum of Fly Fishing while you’re in the neighborhood.

17. Take in the view from a Vermont fire tower

If you’re not afraid of heights, you can check out the views from several fire towers on top of Vermont mountains. While the towers haven’t been used to detect the presence of fires in Vermont for decades, many are still maintained.

Here are a few that are worth the climb:

• Mt. Olga in Molly Stark State Park (closed for renovations in 2024)
• Elmore Mountain in Elmore State Park
• Mt. Ascutney in Ascutney State Park

18. Cool Off in a Vermont Swimming Hole

It’s not summer in Vermont until you’ve braved the frigid waters of a local swimming hole.

Come relax by the river, have a picnic, and enjoy swimming against the flow. This is where families, college students, and empty nesters all congregate on the hottest days of July and August.

Everyone has their favorite Vermont swimming holes – here are our top nine !

19. Ride the Kingdom Trails in the NEK

Come ride 100+ miles of mountain biking trails in the beautiful Northeast Kingdom of Vermont. Kingdom Trails is an incredible trail system that works with public and private landowners. Riding the trails was recently named the best thing to do in Northern Vermont by Yankee Magazine .

You can recreate on the Kingdom Trails in the summer or the winter, but you’ll need to purchase an annual, monthly, or daily membership before heading out.

A robust tourism industry has developed around the Kingdom trails, so it’s easy to rent equipment , go out to dinner, or find a vacation rental in the area.

20. Go Ice Skating on the Longest Ice Trail in the Country

That would be the Lake Morey Skate Trail , a 4.3-mile ice skating loop in Fairlee, Vermont. The trail is maintained by Lake Morey Resort, where you can rent Nordic skates and accessories for a small fee. Skating on the trail is free, but donations are greatly appreciated.

21. Paddle Down the Connecticut River

The slow-moving Connecticut River near Windsor, Vermont is a fabulous paddling destination. Cruise under the longest two-span covered bridge in North America, sip locally crafted beers at nearby Harpoon Brewery, and pitch your tent at Wilgus State Park for a perfect paddling weekend.

Here are the logistics for planning your Connecticut River paddling trip with Great River Outfitters.

22. Discover Carnivorous Plants in one of Vermont’s Largest Bogs

You can find a few natural bog communities in the state of Vermont, but one of our favorites is Peacham Bog in Groton State Forest .

Peacham Bog encompasses 748 acres of rare plant communities, including carnivorous pitcher plants and sundews. The 4.5-mile hike to Peacham Bog is a beautiful, level trail that travels through many different ecosystems with lots of chances to see birds and wildlife.

23. Camp on Burton Island on Lake Champlain

Burton Island State Park near St. Albans can only be reached by boat – either a passenger ferry or your own watercraft. Once you get to the island, you’ll find an awesome trail network, waterfront lean-tos, and a small campground for tent campers.

You can rent a slip for your boat, watch the sunrise and sunset over the water, and swim and paddle to your heart’s content. It’s as close as you’ll get to a tropical vacation in Vermont!

24. Hike Around One of Vermont’s Most Beautiful Ponds

There are so many beautiful ponds in Vermont, but for fall hiking and camping, you won’t want to miss Grout Pond in the southern part of the Green Mountain National Forest .

Pristine, secluded campsites dot the shoreline and a 2.6-mile trail loops around the pond.

Grout Pond is delightful for swimming in the summer, and you can’t beat the beauty of fall foliage reflecting in the clear waters come October. The hike around Grout Pond is one of the best things to do in Vermont in the fall.

The campground at Grout Pond is open year-round, with reservations accepted in the summer months.

25. Take in the Views from Vermont’s Oldest State Park

Mount Philo State Park was Vermont’s first state park, created in 1924. You can reach the summit by hiking a 1.9-mile loop that climbs 550 feet in elevation, or you can drive to the top for a mountaintop picnic and a beautiful sunset over Lake Champlain.

In addition to beautiful hiking trails, there’s also a small campground at the top of the mountain with 11 campsites.

Things to do in Vermont: Art and Culture

Artists, musicians, and authors have always been inspired by Vermont’s landscape and people.

Vermont’s vibrant art scene is for everyone and includes world-class theater, music, and visual art exhibits, but also some eclectic attractions that you won’t find anywhere else. Here are the best things to do in Vermont for lovers of art and culture.

26. Stay at Naulakha, the Former Home of Rudyard Kipling

Located in Dummerston, Vermont, Naulakha was built for Rudyard Kipling in 1892 and still houses much of the original furniture – even the desk where Kipling penned The Jungle Book .

This fully furnished three-story house is also a beautiful vacation rental. Reserve your stay through Landmark Trust USA .

27. Visit the Former Home and Grave of Poet Robert Frost

Another famous author who called Vermont home for a time was poet Robert Frost, who lived in both Shaftsbury and Ripton, Vermont.

His Shaftsbury home is now the Robert Frost Stone House Museum. Frost lived here from 1920 to 1929 when he wrote “Stopping by Woods on a Snowy Evening.”

While you’re in the area, head a few miles south to Old Bennington, where you can pay your respects to Robert Frost at his gravesite behind the Old First Church.

28. Check the Largest Collection of Grandma Moses Paintings at Bennington Museum

There’s more than one reason to check out Bennington Museum – thought-provoking history and art exhibits, intriguing special events, and even an outdoor nature trail. But Bennington Museum is probably best known for housing the largest collection of Grandma Moses paintings in the world.

Anna Mary Robertson started painting in her seventies and became one of America’s most prolific and famous self-taught artists within just a few years. Come visit the Grandma Moses schoolhouse as well as many artifacts from her painting life.

29. Catch a show at the Flynn Center in Burlington

The Flynn Center in Burlington is housed in a 1930s Art Deco theater on Main Street.

It’s a fun venue to catch world-class musical performances, Broadway shows, and comedians. If you’re planning a trip to Burlington, Vermont, you owe it to yourself to check out the calendar of events at the Flynn Center.

30. Visit One of Vermont’s Incredible Outdoor Sculpture Parks

Want to see larger-than-life outdoor art installations in the wild?

Vermont is home to several awesome outdoor sculpture parks. The largely rural landscape makes an enchanting backdrop for all kinds of art installations, and as the seasons change, so does the experience.

No matter where you travel in the state, you’re within a short drive of one of these incredible outdoor sculpture parks in Vermont.

• Southern Vermont Arts Center, Manchester
• Lemon Fair Sculpture Park, Shoreham
• Path of Life Garden, Windsor
• The Carving Studio &n Sculpture Center, West Rutland
• West Rutland Art Park, West Rutland
• Cold Hollow Sculpture Park, Enosburg Falls

Want more details? Read Incredible Outdoor Sculpture Parks in Vermont

31. Straddle the Vermont-Canadian Border in a Library/Opera House

From Southern Vermont north to the Canadian border is less than four hours, and if you visit the little town of Derby Line, which happens to be where I got my start in life, you can watch a show in Quebec while you sit in the audience in Vermont.

The Haskell Free Library and Opera House was deliberately built on the international border and opened in 1904.

32. See the “Bug Art” Exhibit at the Fairbanks Museum and Planetarium

Looking for an out-of-the-ordinary exhibit and one of the most unique things to do in Vermont?

You might want to check out Bug Art by John Hampson at the Fairbanks Museum in St. Johnsbury, Vermont . Hampson’s passion for insects has been preserved using thousands of beetles, moths, and butterflies, meticulously positioned on wood and lovingly framed.

Explore the entire Bug Art collection, not to mention full-habitat dioramas, natural history artifacts, and more than 30,000 objects that focus on aspects of culture, art, and technology relating to the history, traditions, and landscape of the Great Northern Forest and around the world.

33. Explore the Expansive Shelburne Museum

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

The Museum’s 45-acre campus includes a Shaker design Round Barn, a General Store, a carousel, and the 220-foot sidewheel steamboat Ticonderoga.

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

34. Visit the Whale Tail Sculpture Near Burlington

When driving on Interstate 89 between exits 12 and 13, you may have spotted two giant whale tales that appear to be diving under the hillside. “Reverence”, was created by Jim Sardonis in 1989.

Carved from 36 tons of African black granite, the tails stand between 12 and 13 feet tall and are meant to symbolize the fragility of the planet.

You can hike to the Whale Tails on an easy 1.7-mile walking path in South Burlington, Vermont.

35. Attend a performance by the Vermont Symphony Orchestra

One of the oldest state-supported symphony orchestras in the United States, the Vermont Symphony Orchestra performs indoors and outdoors throughout the year. VSO concerts are statewide, and you have more than 40 opportunities to catch a concert annually.

36. Visit the Miniature Castles in South Hero

If you find yourself in the Lake Champlain Islands , you may see a variety of miniature stone castles dotting the landscape. They were created by local gardener, Harry Barber, who made the castles as a tribute to his home country of Switzerland.

While most of the miniature South Hero castles are on private property, some can be seen and photographed from the road. Here’s a  South Hero bicycle tour  that you can follow to find four of the castles on the island. 

37. Visit the Bread and Puppet Theatre in Glover, Vermont

  Bread and Puppet Theatre in Glover, Vermont is one of the oldest, nonprofit, political theatre companies in the country, and features larger-than-life puppets doing outrageous things.

The Bread and Puppet Museum is housed in an unheated 150-year-old barn and is open daily between June 1st to November 1st, 10 am to 6 pm.

Bread and Puppet tours locally and around the world, but during the summer, you can catch them performing on weekends at their home in Glover.

38. Check Out the Murals of Rutland, Vermont

Exploring the murals and other outdoor art installations in Rutland, Vermont makes for a unique day trip.

During our 2021 visit, we discovered 15 larger-than-life murals, but there are even more now! That means we have to go back to find all the murals that we missed!

Things to do in Vermont: History and Science

Whether you love old buildings and bridges, touring historic sites and museums, or exploring hands-on science, there are plenty of things to do in Vermont to expand your knowledge.

From the expansive to the obscure, here are some of our favorite science and history attractions in the state.

39. Visit the Site of the Only Revolutionary War Battle Fought on Vermont Soil

The only Revolutionary War battle fought on what would become Vermont soil happened on July 7, 1777, in Hubbardton. It is considered to be one of the most successful rear-guard actions in American history. 

The trails through the fields and forest surrounding the battlefield tell the history of that day. As a bonus, you’ll be treated to magnificent views of the Taconic Mountains.

You can visit the grounds of the Hubbardton Battlefield State Historic Site anytime, but if you want to check out the museum too, visit between May 28 and October 9, Thursday through Sunday, 10 am – 5 pm.

40. Visit the Old Round Church in Richmond

The Old Round Church is actually a 16-sided polygon, Constructed in 1812-13 under the direction of local craftsman William Rhodes. It was built to be a place of worship for five Protestant denominations:  Baptists, Christians, Congregationalists, Methodists, and Universalists.  Members of each denomination financed the construction of the church. 

Today, the Old Round Church is maintained by the Richmond Historical Society. It is open to the public during the summer and fall, from 10 am – 4 pm daily.

41. Take Your Kids to Montshire Museum of Science

Kids love the Montshire Museum of Science, which has been welcoming budding scientists since 1976. Situated on 110 acres near the Connecticut River in Norwich, Vermont, the Montshire features more than 150 exhibits on nature, technology, astronomy, and the physical sciences.

Trails crisscross the grounds, and numerous outdoor exhibits make this a great destination for spring, summer, and fall.

42. Explore More Than 100 Covered Bridges in Vermont

Per square mile, there are more covered bridges in Vermont than anywhere else in the United States – more than 100 in all. Most covered bridges in Vermont were built between 1825 and 1875 to prevent the trusses and decks from rotting from prolonged exposure to snow and rain.

I wrote an article about the beautiful covered bridges of Bennington County in Southwestern Vermont. If you want to see more, check out the Vermont Covered Bridges Society.

43. Befriend an owl or a hawk at the Vermont Institute of Natural Sciences

Located in Quechee, Vermont, the Vermont Institute of Natural Science specializes in avian rehabilitation, conservation, and nature education.

The non-profit organization was founded in 1972 and the VINS Nature Center features raptor and songbird exhibits as well as a forest canopy walk. Checking out VINS is one of the best things to do in Vermont for wildlife lovers.

VINS is open daily from 10 am – 4 pm.

44. Visit the Homes of Two Former Presidents from Vermont

Two US presidents called Vermont home, Chester A. Arthur, the nation’s 21st president was born in Vermont in 1829. You can visit a reconstruction of his boyhood home in Fairfield, Vermont. The President Chester Arthur Historic Site was Vermont’s first state-run historic site. Interior exhibits will be closed in 2022, but the grounds are always open.

President Calvin Coolidge was our 30th president, and the President Calvin Coolidge State Historic Site in Plymouth Notch preserves his birthplace and childhood home.

Today, the Coolidge Homestead is furnished exactly as it was when Vice President Calvin Coolidge took the oath of office following the unexpected death of President Warren G. Harding. Over the next 40 years, the State of Vermont obtained ownership of the major parcels of land and significant buildings comprising the village to ensure the preservation of Plymouth Notch as Calvin Coolidge remembered it.

Visit President Calvin Coolidge Historic Site between late and late October, between Tuesday and Sun day, from 10 am – 5 pm. Tickets are $12.00 for adults and $4 for children 6-14. Children under 6 are free, and a family pass for up to 8 people is $30.

As a photographer, a visit to the Calvin Coolidge Historic Site is one of my favorite things to do in Vermont. There are so many beautiful buildings!

45. Tour the Largest Open-Pit Granite Quarry in the World

It’s 600 feet deep and filled with dazzling turquoise water. The Rock of Ages Quarry is also one of Vermont’s oldest quarrying operations. The site has been continuously quarried since the early 1880s and the beautiful Barre granite has been used in historic buildings and monuments throughout the United States.

40-minute tours are offered Monday through Friday during the spring, summer, and fall. Rates are $9.00 per adult | $7.50 per senior (62+) | $4.50 per child (6-13) | Children under 5 are admitted for free.

46. Check out Hope Cemetery in Barre

While visiting the Granite Capital of the World, be sure to stop by Hope Cemetery in Barre . Here you’ll find stones, monuments, and memorials from many of Barre’s most famous stone carvers. Established in 1895, Hope Cemetery consisted then of 53 acres designed and planned by the renowned landscape architect Edward P. Adams.

With more than 10,000 tombstones, Hope Cemetery is as much a museum of granite as it is a sacred resting ground.

47. Visit Vermont’s Oldest Town, Incorporated in 1735

Vermont’s oldest town is Westminster, chartered in 1735 by the Province of Massachusetts Bay and called New Taunton or Township Number One.

Westminster is a small town with pastoral surroundings on the bank of the Connecticut River. There are a few old buildings in Westminster and a small downtown area.

48. Visit the Former Estate of Robert Todd Lincoln

Robert was the only child of Mary Todd Lincoln and Abraham Lincoln to survive to maturity. The Lincolns built Hildene in Manchester, Vermont as a summer home at the turn of the 20th century. It has been beautifully restored to include the estate, gardens, a working farm, a restored Pullman car, and woodland trails.

Hildene offers guided and self-guided tours of the house. The home and grounds are open Thursday through Monday, 10 am-4:30 pm. $23 for adults | $6 for youth (6 to 16) | Members and children under 6 are free.

We recommend visiting Hildene when the peonies are blooming in May and June. They are highlights of the back garden and the views are incredible.

49. Visit One of the Oldest Log Cabins in the United States

Constructed in in 1783, the Hyde Log Cabin is the oldest log cabin in Vermont and one of the oldest in the United States. It was built by Jedediah Hyde, a Revolutionary War soldier, who was one of the first people to settle in the Islands.

Visit the Hyde Log Cabin on weekends from July 4 through mid-October.

50. Stay in Vermont’s Only Art Deco Hotel

The Latchis Hotel and Theatre first opened in 1938 right in downtown Brattleboro, which is a fabulous weekend destination. Travel back in time and stay in vintage rooms that feature both mountain and city views.

The Latchis Theatre is located right downstairs. This Greco Deco Theatre is a member of the League of Historic American Theatres and a swanky spot to catch a movie or concert.

Also read: 19 Spectacular Things to Do in Brattleboro, VT

51. Visit the Echo Center on the Lake Champlain Waterfront

Located on the waterfront in Burlington, the ECHO, Leahy Center for Lake Champlain features more than 100 interactive exhibits; and 70 species of fish, reptiles, and amphibians. This natural history and science museum tells the story of the Lake Champlain basin with interactive exhibits, a 3-D theater, and live animals.

The Echo Center is open daily from 10 am – 5 pm. Tickets are $18 for adults, $16 for students and seniors, and $14.50 for children 3 to 7. Members are always free.

52. Visit Vermont’s Most Visited Historic Site and Tallest Building

Visit the stately Bennington Battle Monument, built to commemorate the Battle of Bennington, which actually took place in nearby New York on August 16, 1777. The Bennington Battle Monument is 306 feet 4 and 1/2 inches tall and was completed and dedicated in 1891.

You can take an elevator to the top of the Bennington Monument every day between May 26 through October 31, 10 am to 5 pm. Tickets are $6 for adults and $2 for children 6 to 14.

53. Walk Around the Nation’s Smallest Capital City

With a population of just under 8,000 people, Montpelier is the smallest state capital in the country. Despite its demure size, Montpelier has a vibrant downtown, a lively music and arts scene, fabulous dining, and lots of outdoor recreation.

Be sure to visit the Vermont State House, one of the oldest and best-preserved of the nation’s state capitols. After 140 years, the State House Chambers are the oldest legislative chambers in their original condition in the United States.

54. Learn About Vermont’s Maritime History at the Lake Champlain Maritime Museum

At the Lake Champlain Maritime Museum , you can tour the underwater shipwrecks at the bottom of the lake without getting wet. Many of the shipwrecks are part of the  Vermont Underwater Historic Preserves. You can take a boat out and explore these treasures with a guide using an ROV with a robotic camera.

The museum includes indoor and outdoor exhibits, historic boats, a boat shop, an archaeology lab, a theater, and a research space. It’s open between May and October each year, and admission is free for all visitors.

55. Learn About the Underground Railroad in Vermont at the Rokeby Museum

Located in Ferrisburgh, Vermont, Rokeby Museum explores the Abolitionist Movement and the Underground Railroad in Vermont. Visit the historic 1780s farmstead with eight outbuildings and several miles of hiking trails.

For almost 200 years, the house was the home of the Robinson family, and the home served as a safe house along the Underground Railroad in the 1830s and 1840s.

Rokeby Museum is open between May and October and the hiking trails are open year-round. Admission is $12 for adults, $11 for seniors, $10 for students, and free for children under five.

56. Visit the Museum of Everyday Life

If you happen to be in Glover for a visit to Bread and Puppet Theatre, be sure to also stop at the Museum of Everyday Life , housed in an unheated barn. Admission is based on the honor system, and you never know what you’ll find, but it will certainly be ordinary. And thought-provoking.

The Museum of Everyday Life is open from 8 am – 8 pm. Don’t forget to turn off the lights when you leave.

57. Tour a quirky Vermont Castle in Proctor

One of Vermont’s only castles, Wilson Castle was a private estate built in 1867 that now operates as a museum. The three-story castle features 32 rooms, 13 fireplaces, and 84 stained-glass windows. And it’s haunted! It’s changed hands many times over the years, but hopefully, it will be preserved for many years to come.

Wilson Castle is open from May to October. Admission is $17 per person.

Things to do in Vermont: Animals and Agriculture

Vermont’s farm and agriculture roots run deep, and it was once said that there were more cows in the state than people. While this statement is no longer true, Vermont is still one of the best states to visit farm animals, sample cheese, and shop at the local farmers’ markets.

If you love rural life, you’ll find all kinds of agrarian things to do in Vermont.

58. Camp on a Vermont Farm

Our favorite Vermont camping opportunities are off the beaten path a bit and often feature a fun cast of critters that double as camp hosts. I’m talking about Vermont farm stays – private camping or glamping on the same Vermont farms that contribute so much to our rural landscape and way of life.

Private farm camping in Vermont allows campers to connect with the natural world in a whole new way. Whether it’s frolicking with baby goats, harvesting your evening meal, or simply pitching a tent in a pasture, each farm camping experience in Vermont is unique (and awesome).

Here are a few of our favorite farm camping spots in Vermont.

59. Shop at a Local Vermont Farmers’ Market

No matter where you happen to be in Vermont, there’s a good chance that there’s a farmers’ market near you. There are more than 90 farmers’ markets throughout the state. Each market is different – some of them provide producer-only farm products for you to enjoy, while others welcome crafters, food trucks, and prepared food vendors.

Most farmers’ markets in Vermont provide live entertainment to go along with the fresh produce, dairy products, and maple syrup they offer. Visiting a Vermont farmers’ market is a great way to support the local economy, chat with the locals, and get a feel for the community you’re visiting.

60. Visit Baby Animals at Vermont Farms in the Spring

Vermont farms experience a literal rebirth every spring when new babies are born. There are dozens of farms throughout the state that welcome visitors. Here are a few of our favorite spots to snuggle calves, lambs, and chicks in Vermont.

• Merck Forest & Farmland Center
• Billings Farm and Museum
• Sugarbush Farm
• Shelburne Farms

61. Learn How Cheese is Made at Shelburne Farms

Shelburne Farms is a 1,400-acre farm that includes a dairy herd, children’s barnyard, orchards, and walking trails. As a local nonprofit, it’s dedicated to education and sustainable farm practices.

Since 1980, Shelburne Farms has made an artisanal, Vermont cheddar, using raw milk from their pasture-raised herd of Brown Swiss cows. You can visit the cheesemaking facilities daily from 10 am-4 pm between May and October, or take a Sun to Cheese Tour on Fridays at 1:45.

62. Visit the Morgan Horse Farm

Vermont’s state horse, the Morgan is known for its versatility. It was one of the first horse breeds developed in the United States, beginning with a horse called Figure who was born in Randolph, Vermont in 1789.

The UVM Morgan Horse Farm is home to the oldest, continuous Morgan horse breeding herd in the world. Established in 1878, this beautiful historic site is a working farm near Middlebury, Vermont with 40+ Morgans. It is open to the public between May and October annually.

63. Visit a Vermont Country Fair

Looking for the perfect mix of agriculture, local food, and summer fun? Visit a Vermont Country Fair! Most of these annual events happen between August and October to encompass a celebration of the harvest season.

At a Vermont fair, you’ll find 4-H exhibitions, live music, amusement rides, and lots of local flavors! Find a Vermont Fair to discover this year.

64. Explore the sweetest museum in Vermont – the New England Maple Museum

A trip to Vermont is not complete without a visit to the  New England Maple Museum in Pittsford, Vermont. Nestled in the foothills of the Green Mountains, this is the place to stock up on maple products, learn about how it’s made, and get the perfect selfie with the world’s largest jug of maple syrup.

Things to do in Vermont: Eating, Drinking, and Shopping

Every community in Vermont offers a unique shopping and dining experience, whether you’re checking out the designer outlets in Machester, meandering along Church Street in Burlington, or relaxing at a local brewery or restaurant.

For a unique look into the exemplary dining and shopping options in Vermont, check out these incredible spots.

65. Shop the Church Street Marketplace

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

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

Read Next: The Best Things for Families to Do in Burlington this Summer

66. Take a Dinner Cruise on Lake Champlain

The  Spirit of Ethan Allen  is Lake Champlain’s only cruise ship and floating restaurant. Climb aboard and experience the beautiful views, fantastic food, and great company as you learn more about the history of Lake Champlain.

Lake Champlain cruises are offered between May and October and include narrated history cruises, sunset cruises, lunch cruises, and other special event outings.

67. Take a Craft Brewery Tour in Burlington

Vermont has long been known for its craft beer industry, and Burlington is one of the best places to get a sampling of Vermont’s finest beers. Hop on the Burlington Beer Trail and experience a unique tour of Burlington’s best brews!

With seven breweries on the list, this trail is short enough that you can hop on the bike path or walk to most destinations.

68. Stay on a Vineyard B&B in South Hero

For a different tasting experience, head into the Lake Champlain Islands, where you’ll find Vermont’s oldest commercial winery and vineyard. Not only can you sample the award-winning wines at Snow Farm Vineyard , but you can stay at their family-run bed & breakfast.

Crescent Bay Farmhouse is a farm stay like no other. The 1820s farmhouse is surrounded by restored gardens with vintage plants on a working farm, with fantastic views of Lake Champlain.

69. Grab the Best French Fries at Beansie’s Bus in Burlington

Yes, I’m biased, but I’ve also been enjoying the french fries from Beansie’s Bus for more than 40 years!

Beansie’s first opened in 1944 and has been faithfully feeding Burlingtonians for 75 years. The Beansie’s Bus family is aimed at keeping the summer tradition alive for current and future generations.

Grab a burger and fries, let your kids play at the Battery Park playground, and take in the awesome views over Lake Champlain.

This is summer in Burlington!

70. Take a Tour of Ben & Jerry’s Factory in Waterbury

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

The scoop shop is currently open, and factory tours are back on after a two-year hiatus. Reserve your spot on Ben & Jerry’s website .

71. Drive the Vermont Cheese Trail

The Vermont Cheese Trail introduces you to more than 45 award-winning cheesemakers who produce over 150 small-batch, sheep, cow, and goat specialty cheeses. If, like me, you can’t get enough of sampling tasty Vermont cheese, then you need to plan a cheese-inspired road trip!

Download the Vermont cheese map to get started on your mouth-watering journey!

72. Make a Vermont Teddy Bear

The iconic Vermont Teddy Bear Company first opened its doors on Church Street in 1981. The factory is now located in nearby Shelburne, where you can take a tour, stock up on Vermont goodies, or make your very own Vermont Teddy Bear to take home!

Vermont Teddy Bear Factory tours are offered seven days a week, from 10 am-4 pm. Adults: $5 / Seniors $4 / Kids 12 and under are free.

73. Shop Designer Outlet Stores in Manchester

Manchester Designer Outlets  (MDO) is an upscale collection of over 40 designer outlet boutiques in Manchester, Vermont. This walkable shopping district features iconic brands like Armani, Brooks Brothers, Eileen Fisher, and Talbots.

Come for the high-end sales on all of your favorite brands, but be sure to stay for dinner at one of the great eateries. Manchester may be a small town, but it’s got a lot going on!

74. Visit Vermont’s Largest Candy Store

Middlebury Sweets began in 2011 to showcase Vermont’s largest selection of confectionaries, chocolate, and other sweet treats.

Visiting Vermont’s largest candy store is fun enough, but Middlebury Sweets is also a motel. If you’ve got a serious sweet tooth, why not book a stay at Middlebury Sweets Motel , where every room is decorated in a candy theme?

75. Take a Baking Class at King Arthur Baking Company

King Arthur Baking Company got its start more than 200 years ago as the first flour company in the United States. Today, it’s 100% employee-owned and dedicated to building stronger communities and increasing access and connection to real foods.

You can visit King Arthur’s flagship store in Norwich, Vermont. Stock up on baking supplies, have a fantastic lunch, and sign up for a class at the King Arthur Baking School . King Arthur Baking is open every day from 8 am-5 pm. The bakery closes at 3 pm.

76. Visit Vermont’s Largest Antique Mall

The Vermont Antique Mall is a massive 17,000-square-foot barn in Quechee Gorge Village, featuring hundreds of booths filled with a vast array of antique, vintage, and collectible treasures. If you love antiques, this is one of the best things to do in Vermont on a rainy day.

The Vermont Antique Mall is open daily from 10 am-5 pm.

77. Indulge in a Maple Creemee

What the heck is a creemee anyway? It’s soft-serve ice cream eaten in Vermont! You may think that creemees are nothing special, but because our summers are so dang short, we take our ice cream seriously.

Maple creemees are a must-try summer dessert, especially after a long hike in the Green Mountains.

You can find creemees all over Vermont, but if you’re not sure where to go, try Canteen Creemeee in Waitsfield, Vermont Cookie Love in North Ferrisburgh, or the Sugar Shack in Arlington.

We discovered a new creemee stand in Newport just this year. Tim and Doug’s in Newport is our favorite so far!

78. Have Breakfast in an Old-Fashioned Diner

Old-fashioned diners are getting harder to find in Vermont, but if you don’t mind a little road trip, visiting one is a great way to celebrate a bygone era with serious Vermont comfort food. Here are a few of our favorite diners in Vermont – be sure you save room for dessert!

• The Blue Benn in Bennington, VT – It closed for a few months during the pandemic, but now it’s open under new owners and better than ever!
• Henry’s Diner in Burlington, VT – This downtown eatery has been serving hungry Vermonters since 1925!
• Country Girl Diner in Chester, VT – An authentic Silk City dining car serving delicious breakfast and lunch options.

79. Visit the Vermont Country Store in Weston or Rockingham

The famous Vermont Country Store features all the quirky items you’d find in an old-fashioned country store, plus loads of eclectic things that you never knew you needed. It’s one of those places where you can spend a few hours without buying a thing!

Visit the original Vermont Country Store in Weston or the newer location in Rockingham.

80. Visit Iconic Bennington Potters in Bennington or Burlington

David Gil started Bennington Potters in 1948. With his very first piece, Gil created a Vermont legacy, crafting beautiful and functional stoneware for everyday use. The Bennington store features many rooms of beautiful pottery, plus a nice selection of kitchenware, rugs, and furniture. Bennington Potters North is a smaller location in downtown Burlington.

* 2024 updates: Bennington Potters locations are temporarily closed, but online shopping is open.

81. Take the Vermont Brewery Challenge

If you’re already a fan of locally crafted beer, why not take the Vermont Brewery Challenge ? Sponsored by the Vermont Brewers Association, the challenge is simple – download the app, find local Vermont breweries, and earn rewards as you sample your favorite beers in your favorite spots.

There are currently more than 60 Vermont breweries listed as part of the challenge.

The Vermont Brewery Challenge app also allows you to save your favorite beers and create your own beer trails and tours.

Things to do in Vermont: Special Events

There are too many festivals and special events in Vermont to list here, so we’re just going to focus on our favorites. These events are unique to Vermont and worth making a special trip for!

83. RockFire in Websterville, Vermont

ROCKFIRE  is a celebration of the historical and cultural significance of Millstone Hills, once the site of 75 active granite quarries that prospered thanks to a wave of immigrant workers who journeyed to Vermont to make a living while sharing their skills, talents, traditions, and dreams.

The 13th annual ROCKFIRE (September 2024) welcomes participants 10 and up to visit Millstone Hill between 6 pm and midnight for an enchanting evening full of delightful experiences. This is one of the most lively and beloved festivals in Vermont.

Read Next: 26 Iconic Vermont Festivals and Fairs You Won’t Want to Miss

84. Watch Maple Syrup Being Made during Maple Open House Weekend

Maple Open House Weekend celebrates Vermont’s sweetest delicacy. More than 100 maple producers open their doors for one weekend each March in a wildly popular weekend festival that celebrates maple trees, maple sap, maple syrup, and the farmers that create it.

The 2024 Maple Open House Weekend is March 23 & 24. Find out more at Vermont Maple Sugar Makers and be sure to check out these 12 Vermont sugar shacks to learn more about maple sugaring!

85. Watch Ski Jumpers at the Harris Hill Ski Jump

The Harris Hill Ski Jumping Competition has been a long-standing Brattleboro tradition since 1922. This two-day event offers spectators an opportunity to experience the Olympic sport of ski jumping up close in all its breathtaking, heart-stopping glory on an Olympic-size, 90-meter hill.

This fun event takes place in February each year.

86. Experience Bennington Battle Day

Bennington Battle Day commemorates the Battle of Bennington in the Revolutionary War, which took place in nearby Walloomsac, New York on August 16, 1777. The battle was a major strategic success for the American cause and is considered part of the turning point of the Revolutionary War.

Bennington Battle Day is a Vermont State Holiday. Celebrate in Bennington with a parade, reenactments, and other special events.

87. Check out the Burlington Discover Jazz Festival in June

The Burlington Discover Jazz Festival is one of the largest annual events in Vermont, featuring world-class musicians across multiple indoor and outdoor venues. This 10-day event is renowned for welcoming up-and-coming artists as well as established musicians.

The 2024 Burlington Discover Jazz Festival will take place in early June. It is run by the Flynn Center, but many of the performances are free throughout the city.

88. Experience the Great Bristol Outhouse Race

The Fourth of July festivities in the small village of Bristol, Vermont are not to be missed.

The town hosts a two-day celebration that features a barbecue on the town green, fireworks, and a parade. The most unusual event is the annual Outhouse Race. Each outhouse team has two runners and a rider, and they race against other outhouses throughout town.

89. Go to a Hot Air Balloon Festival

Vermont has two notable balloon festivals that take place each year. The Stowe Balloon Festival is a weekend-long event that features sunrise and twilight balloon launches, live entertainment, and kids’ activities in early July.

The Quechee Hot Air Balloon Festival takes place in June and is the longest-running balloon festival in New England. In addition to the main attraction, visitors enjoy continuous music and entertainment for all ages, more than 50 craft artisans and commercial vendors, and several interactive activities for kids and adults.

Things to do in Vermont: Road Trips

When you’re not quite sure where to go or what to do on your Vermont vacation, just hop in the car.

Vermont is full of meandering back roads, and you never know what you’ll discover. Here are some of our favorite little Vermont road trips and other excursions to have with your car.

90. Drive Over Vermont’s Floating Bridge

Welcome to the only floating bridge east of the Mississippi! The Brookfield Floating Bridge spans Sunset Lake and is buoyed by pontoons. Since 1820, eight floating bridges have spanned sunset lake. The drive over the bridge takes only a minute, but Sunset Lake is a great spot to swim!

91. Go to the Drive-In and Stay in a Movie-Themed Motel

Less of a road trip and more of an event – Sunset Drive-In Theater has been welcoming motorists since 1948. It opens in March or April each year (depending on the weather) and features popular double features on massive screens.

After the show, check into the Starlight Inn , which is right next door to the theater. Choose from one of 11 movie-themed rooms. Starlight Inn guests get into the show for free.

92. Take a Fall-Foliage Road Trip

If you visit Vermont in the fall , you can simply hop in the car and drive to experience incredible fall foliage. We do have a couple of road trip suggestions for fall if you want specifics.

For a multi-day trip, consider beginning in Wilmington, Vermont, and driving 217 miles on Route 100 . This stunning road trip takes you through the heart of the Green Mountains.

For a shorter trip, try this mini road trip in Southern Vermont, which starts in Bennington and takes you through Arlington, Manchester, Jamaica, Wilmington, and Woodford.

93. Drive Through Smuggler’s Notch

Smuggler’s Notch is a small section of Route 108 in Stowe that twists and turns over a mountain pass. There are a few parking areas and trailheads in the Notch so you can get out and explore.

This was a smuggling route during the 1800s when the US placed an embargo on the imports of English goods. The British simply shipped the goods to Canada, where it was smuggled over the border through what is now called Smuggler’s Notch Pass.

94. Become Part of the 251 Club

You can become the ultimate Vermont tourist by visiting all 251 towns in the state . You don’t have to visit every town to become a member of the 251 Club, but you have to at least aspire to do so. You can travel at your own pace as you explore Vermont on your quest!

95. Take in the View from Hogback Mountain – No Hiking Required

The famous 100-mile view can be seen from Hogback Mountain off Route 9 in Southern Vermont. On a clear day, you will be rewarded with views of Vermont, Massachusetts, and New Hampshire. 

Pull off and enjoy the scenery. From the parking area, you can walk to Hogback Mountain Country Store , Beer Naked Brewery , and Vermont Distillers .

These are the absolute best things to do in Vermont in every season, so if you’re creating your own Vermont bucket list, be sure to bookmark this post so you can use it as a resource.

More Things to Do in Vermont

Grab our five-page printable bucket list that includes all the best things to do in Vermont in this post!

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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.

Friday 1st of March 2024

Thanks for posting. Please send me the printable version.

Aimee Duplissis

Saturday 12th of November 2022

I've lived in the Northeast Kingdom and now across the state near Lake Champlain and I have to say that the best place for ice-cream is right beside the dairy at Goodies. They serve the most outstanding and creative sundaes and watch the size of soft-serve creamee you ask for, it is always enormous! It's near the bridge to New York, which is nice to stroll over after a wonderful dessert.

Tara Schatz

Thanks so much for sharing your favorite ice cream spot. I need to check this one out!

Elizabeth Moran

Thursday 18th of August 2022

Thanks so much! We have visited Vermont so many times but were not aware of all of your recommendations. We can’t wait to go back and visit again!

Bob Edebohls

Friday 11th of March 2022

You should include Jeudevine FALLS Nature Center in Hardwick. Vermont's best multiple waterfalls park

Great idea! We'll check it out this summer and add it then!

Best Time to Visit

Weather & Climate

Top Places to Visit

Best Small Towns

Things to Do in Rutland

Things to Do in Burlington

Things to Do in Montpelier

Things to Do in Woodstock

Things to Do in Vermont

Scenic Road Trips

Where to See Fall Foliage

Best Ski Resorts

Food to Try

Best Breweries

Your Trip to Vermont: The Complete Guide

Ken Wiedemann/Getty Images

Vermont is agricultural yet edgy, modern and progressive yet still a bit backwoods. Its natural beauty is undisputed, and these contradictions only add to the state's allure. You'll marvel at the sophistication of restaurants and museums and also at how solitary you might feel while hiking a trail or paddling a pristine pond. More people live in the city of Boston than the entire state of Vermont, so when you want to get away in the purest sense of the idea, the Green Mountain State is your place to detach. 

This guide will help you plan a Vermont vacation, from inspiration right through the last longing glance in your rearview mirror as you return to "real" life. As you dream of your journey, play Trevor Hall's "Green Mountain State" on YouTube or your favorite music app, and you'll begin to feel the pulse of a destination that truly does "speak through ten thousand leaves."

 Planning Your Trip

• Best Time to Visit : Vermont is best known as a winter sports destination, and winter lingers for nearly half the year. Go in late March or April, and you can ski snowy slopes and witness the making of maple syrup at sugarhouses statewide. Spring, summer, and autumn all have unique charms, too, and Vermonters will tell you their fall foliage is tops in New England—and perhaps even the world.
• Language: English
• Currency: U.S. Dollar
• Getting Around: Amtrak's Vermonter train makes nine Vermont stops in cities like Brattleboro, Montpelier, and Burlington and near the resort town of Stowe en route to St. Albans near the Canadian border (see current service adjustments). Green Mountain Transit operates buses in the most populated regions and tourist destinations. But you'll need a car if you want to drive Vermont's backroads and visit its small towns and rural expanses, as most visitors do. Rental cars are readily available at Burlington International Airport and in other hub locations.
• Travel Tip: Don't expect your cell phone to work everywhere in Vermont. Depending on your carrier, you may run into dead spots even in popular getaway spots. Remote areas can be even trickier. You may want to print driving directions instead of relying on your phone's GPS, and, particularly in the winter, you should stock your car with emergency gear and supplies. The State of Vermont Department of Public Service provides an interactive map of cell coverage by carrier you may want to check before your visit.

Things to Do

Each season, Vermont offers new thrills for outdoor adventurers. This is New England's skiing and snowboarding capital in the wintertime, attracting millions of skiers and riders each year—Vermont claims 30 percent of skier days in the winter, despite its population paling in comparison to its fellow New England states . And, after the thaw, the state is a top spot for fly fishing. The state's rugged terrain beckons to mountain bikers and ATVers in the summer and fall, and its lakes and rivers challenge paddlers. The only natural feature Vermont lacks is an ocean coast, but there are sandy beaches on Lake Champlain when you long to swim and sunbathe and even the Champlain Islands —a half-hour drive from Burlington—to explore. If you'd prefer to elevate your heart rate by exercising your credit card at local shops, you'll find plenty of opportunities to do that, too.

• There is so much "Made in Vermont" pride, you'll want to load up on fine-quality goods, from wood furnishings handcrafted at ClearLake Furniture in Ludlow to Vermont Flannel 's perfect lounge pants, available along with other cozy creations at five store locations . For one-stop shopping, visit the Vermont Country Store in either Weston or Rockingham.
• Don't miss the Marsh-Billings-Rockefeller National Historical Park in Woodstock. The history of environmental conservation is the focus at Vermont's only national park, which is home to splendid walking trails, gardens, and an art-filled mansion. Billings Farm and Museum , across the street, is also a must.
• Near Middlebury, the UVM Morgan Horse Farm sustains the breed that is Vermont's official state mammal.
• There are more than 100 covered bridges in Vermont: You can see five on this Bennington-area drive.

Explore more Vermont highlights with our guides to the best ski resorts in Vermont , 10 top hikes in Vermont , the best things to do in Burlington , and things to do in Vermont during the summer .

What to Eat and Drink

Vermont produces almost half the maple syrup in the country , and once you taste the real thing, you may never go back to the fake stuff. Maple-flavored everything is sold at sugarhouses and gift shops, and each year, Vermonters seem to find ways to take maple in new, uncharted directions. Maple water , maple seltzer , maple vodka , Maple to Go , Sparkle Syrup —the possibilities are sweet, delicious, and endless.

Cheddar cheese, too, is a Vermont specialty, and cheeseheads will love sampling the array of flavors produced by leading producers, from big names like Cabot and Grafton Village Cheese to artisan makers like Blue Ledge Farm : Try their maple chevre. You can also visit historic cheese factories in Vermont including America's oldest: Crowley Cheese in Mount Holly.

If you find driving miles of rural roads to be kind of a snooze, you'll wake up—or at least your tastebuds will—when you begin sampling the cuisine that's made Vermont a leader in the farm-to-table movement. Eating farm-fresh, local fare is a way of life here, and many Vermont visitors find themselves shopping and eating differently at home after their stay.

In 2021, Maine robbed Vermont of its long-held title of state with the most breweries per capita . Still, if you're a beer lover, you're going to find liquid enticement wherever you roam in Vermont, and you'll want to try famous brews like The Alchemist's Heady Topper, Hill Farmstead's Edward, and Foley Brothers' Maple Brown (made with real Vermont maple syrup, of course).

Explore our articles on nine foods to try in Vermont, the best breweries in Vermont , the best farm-to-plate restaurants in Vermont , and Stowe's top 10 restaurants .

Where to Stay

Vermont accommodations range from rustic campgrounds to two of New England's best spa resorts: Topnotch Resort and Stoweflake Mountain Resort & Spa , both in Stowe. There are a multitude of historic inns and bed-and-breakfasts to consider, too, including the Waybury Inn in East Middlebury, which famously "played the part" of the Stratford Inn on Bob Newhart's TV show, "Newhart," which aired from 1982 to 1990.

Among these classic properties, dog-friendly options like Basin Harbor and The Wilburton abound. If your dog is the family decision-maker, though, you may wind up at the Paw House Inn in West Rutland, where pups are not just welcomed: You'll actually pay a surcharge if you don't bring a dog. Vacation rentals are another popular option, and you may score a deal on a ski-area condo in the summer or fall. Keep in mind that having a kitchen available is a great way to save money on meals out, and you'll love shopping at farms and farmers' markets and cooking Vermont's harvest.

Explore the best destination spas in Vermont , the top Burlington hotels , Vermont's best ski hotels , and the best places to stay in Vermont in the fall .

Getting There

Driving a car to Vermont offers maximum flexibility, but you do have other options. The Amtrak Vermonter train typically departs daily from Washington, D.C. (see current service adjustments), and it picks up Vermont-bound passengers from stations in Maryland, Delaware, New Jersey, New York City, Connecticut, Massachusetts, and New Hampshire. The train travels 13 hours and 45 minutes along its entire route from D.C. to St. Albans in northern Vermont.

Two major bus lines, Greyhound and megabus , also connect Vermont stops with stations in the Northeast and beyond. Air travelers have the option of flying one of five major airlines to Burlington International Airport (BTV), located 4 miles east of downtown Burlington. Pick up a rental car on arrival, or take a taxi, Uber, or Lyft to your destination. Many Vermont vacationers also fly into New York's Albany International Airport , Boston's Logan Airport , or New Hampshire's Manchester-Boston Regional Airport .

Culture and Customs

Vermonters are hardworking, no-nonsense folks for the most part, and they're generally accepting of all. Customs tend to reflect the seasons and the state's agrarian way of life. Pond skimming events at ski areas are a comical rite of spring. Maple sugaring season is accompanied by a host of events, and the fall fruit and vegetable harvest is celebrated with gusto. You may be surprised by how rich the arts scene is in Vermont. Music, in particular, is part of the fabric of everyday culture, and Burlington is a hub of live performances, from folk and jazz to rock.

Money-Saving Tips

• If you can visit in May or September—while kids are in school and ski areas are quiet—you'll dodge crowds, save on lodging, and enjoy pleasantly mild weather.
• Choose a Vermont state park for overnight camping or even just a day of recreation, and you'll find the fees to be a remarkable value. A season pass can save you even more if you're a frequent parks visitor.
• If you're driving to Vermont, don't be afraid to overpack. You'll be thankful for the extra layers when a storm blows through or a summer day turns chilly after sundown, and you won't have to spend vacation dollars on a flannel shirt or moose-emblazoned sweatshirt.
• Heading for the slopes? You'll generally save money if you buy your lift tickets in advance. Also consider checking out some of Vermont's lesser known ski areas like the Middlebury Snow Bowl and Magic Mountain if you want to ski on the cheap .

Vermont Department of Tourism and Marketing. "2017 Benchmark Report: Tourism in Vermont." December 2018

UVM Food Feed: Sustainable Food Systems & The University of Vermont. "A Sweet Deal: Why Maple Syrup is Big Business." March 15, 2018

Bangor Daily News. " Maine Now Has the Most Breweries Per Capita of any US State ." April 5, 2021

20 Best Things to Do in Vermont

Best Fall Foliage Drives in the New England States

12 Best Things to Do in New England in the Winter

The Best Time to Visit Vermont

10 Top Things to Do in Woodstock, Vermont

New England's 10 Most Iconic Outdoor Landmarks

New England Gay Weekend Getaways - Best Weekend Trips from Boston

January in New England: Weather, What to Pack, and What to See

10 Top Road Trip Routes in the Northeastern US

The Top 14 Destinations in Vermont

The 9 Best Foods to Try in Vermont

5 of the Best Vermont RV Parks

A Complete Guide to Vermont's Route 100 Scenic Drive

The Best Spring Break Destinations for Families

Your Trip to Maine: The Complete Guide

The 13 Best Day Trips from Boston

Perfect 1 Week Itinerary for a Vermont Road Trip

If you’re yearning for a peaceful escape in New England, look no further than Vermont. This one-week Vermont itinerary offers the perfect road trip through the picturesque and tranquil state.

Vermont’s unspoiled landscapes and breathtaking scenery make it an ideal destination for those seeking solitude and natural beauty. And if you find yourself with extra time, I’ll also provide options to extend your trip and explore more of what Vermont has to offer.

Vermont rolls out an endless supply of quaint Colonial towns filled with white steepled churches, red barns, red covered bridges, and charming inns.

Vermont is heavily forested, with a green canopy that’s set ablaze with fall foliage. If you’re looking to get away from the crowds and fall back into nature and history, Vermont is the perfect place. And, while you’re there, you can enjoy the excellent farm to table cuisine for which Vermont’s renowned.

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

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

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

One Week In Vermont Itinerary

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

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

Day 1: Brattleboro

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Day 2: Chester, Woodstock & Quechee Gorge

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Day 3-4: Killington

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

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

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

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

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

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

Day 4-5: Burlington

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

>>> Click here to book a craft brewery tour

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Day 7: Stowe

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Extra Time On Your Vermont Road Trip?

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

1. Montpelier

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

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

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

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

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

2. Manchester

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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Last Updated on July 9, 2023 by Leslie Livingston

How a Summer of Solo Camping in Vermont Made Me Love the Outdoors

I t wasn’t the pitter-patter of raindrops on the walls of my tent that woke me, but the incessant whine of Dolly, the black lab puppy who had been sharing my sleeping bag.

I reached for my headlamp and my sandals and fumbled with the zipper of my tent. The rain, combined with the starless night, made it impossible to see more than a few feet in front of me. I hoped Dolly would do her business quickly so we could make a quick retreat back to the tent before we were thoroughly soaked. 

As I stood there with a wet leash in one hand and rain dripping off of every part of me, I wondered again what I was doing here—alone with a puppy in a Vermont forest, standing in the rain at three a.m. 

I applied to be a photography intern for Vermont State Parks during the summer of 2016.

I was hoping to up my photography game while exploring more of my home state. When I was accepted and gleefully told my family our plans for summer vacation, they smiled and quickly reminded me of summer camps and work commitments that would keep them from accompanying me on my adventure.

“Fine,” I told them, “Dolly will go with me.” And that was that.

Why Did I Sign Up for This?

I did not grow up in a family that camped, hiked, or spent time outside unless you count frolicking in a suburban pool and schlepping to Little League games.

I have tried to remedy the situation with my own kids, so I’m not a complete stranger to roughing it in the woods. But as of 2016, I had never camped alone—not for a single night, and certainly not for a whole summer. 

The plan was to visit 22 of Vermont’s 59 state parks with my camera and my pup — I would camp, hike, paddle, and swim for the whole summer while documenting my experience with photos and blog posts for Vermont State Parks.

My family agreed to meet me as time allowed. It would be a perfect summer of outdoor adventures.

Or at least that’s what I thought. 

The first thing I realized was that I didn’t have all the outdoor skills I thought I had.

When you hike and camp with a partner or your family, you tackle jobs based on your personal strengths, while others handle the rest.

Solo campers and hikers don’t have that luxury. My camp-food game was spot on, but I have never been able to tie a good knot. The first night, my tarp collapsed onto my cookstove, and my hammock and clothesline both succumbed to gravity. 

I will freely admit that the first week or two was a lesson in perseverance.

My campfires died prematurely, and I failed to wash my dishes after meals. I went to bed way too early because the bugs drove me crazy, woke up to a missing canoe (it had drifted away in the night), and got lost twice while hiking when I definitely should have known better.

Standing in the rain with Dolly at 3 am that night during my second week of camping, I wondered why I had signed up for such a miserable experience.

Finding My Groove

The next morning, I woke to the sun. I was camping on the shore of Green River Reservoir in northern Vermont, and the weather was finally clearing.

I threw my gear into the canoe, loaded Dolly, and headed out for a morning paddle. The water was perfectly placid, the clouds lifting to reveal the possibility of a gorgeous summer day. 

Paddling into the rising sun, the loons played hide and seek from my camera, and the beavers headed back to their lodge to sleep away the day.

As I steered the boat past a flotilla of lily pads and came around a bend, I looked up to spot a moose knee-deep in the water near the distant shore. Despite living in Vermont for most of my life, I’ve only seen a handful of these beauties, and I caught my breath at the sight.

I stopped paddling and took aim with my camera. It was a pretty fruitless attempt to capture a moment I will never forget — early morning, alone in a canoe at sunrise, with a moose!

That morning was the turning point of my summer.

Paddling back to camp, I realized that every adventure is only what we make of it, and rain, mud, and minor catastrophes don’t have to ruin an experience. In fact, it’s the struggles we experience that are most deeply ingrained in our memories.

Dolly and I went on to explore 23 Vermont State Parks that summer. We hiked 75+ miles, paddled on 8 Vermont lakes, and took about 3,000 photos (Dolly didn’t have anything to do with that part). 

Spending a summer alone in the woods taught me to find comfort in my own company, rely on my own resourcefulness, and tie my own knots.

While I still prefer exploring the outdoors with my family, I will never forget that summer of adventure that belonged only to me and a black lab puppy. 

Vermont State Park Highlights

I can’t sign off without sharing a few practical tidbits about my favorite state. If you’re ever in the Green Mountain State, don’t neglect Vermont State Parks , which celebrates its 100th anniversary in 2024!

Here are some of my favorite experiences to date:

Favorite Campsite: Burton Island State Park in St. Albans

Favorite Park for Kids: Little River State Park in Waterbury

Best Hiking: Underhill State Park in Underhill

Best Paddling: Green River Reservoir State Park in Hyde Park

Best Sunset: Mt. Philo State Park in Charlotte

Best Swimming: Alburg Dunes State Park, Alburgh , and Kingsland Bay State Park in Ferrisburgh

Best Park for Dogs: Woodford State Park, Woodford , and Jamaica State Park in Jamaica

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.

More From Forbes

Planning a vacation here’s your 2024 summer travel insurance guide.

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The joy of a summer vacation. But do you have protection for your trip?

Planning a vacation this summer? Yeah, you and just about everyone else.

More than 9 out of 10 Americans say they'll travel more this year, according to a recent Nationwide Travel Insurance survey . Most of those trips will happen in June, July and August.

Not just that, but 40 percent of the respondents say they'll spend more this year than last year. So how do you protect your vacation investment?

Travel insurance is the standard answer, but what kind of insurance — and how do you find it? That's the question many Americans are wrestling with as they make their travel plans.

Protecting your vacation is a serious concern this summer, experts say.

“Travelers are beefing up their trip protection with security advisory and extraction protection," notes Dan Richards, CEO of The Global Rescue Companies .

It's not just that they're spending more. It's that there's more to lose. The ongoing war in Ukraine, the Hamas attacks on Israel, and other violent conflicts have made travel insurance a key part of trip planning.

This summer may break travel records, experts say.

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Apple confirms innovative iphone 16 pro upgrade, wwe smackdown results winners and grades after wrestlemania 40, it's going to be a busy summer for travel.

Overall policy sales for the 2024 summer travel season are up this year, but there's a spike in sales for policies in August, which is typically the busiest time of the summer. "Sales are up more than 25% over last year," says Stan Sandberg, co-founder of travel insurance site TravelInsurance.com .

Western Europe continues to be the most popular summer destination for Americans, with some notable hotspots. Travel insurance sales for Greece are up over 60% this year compared with 2023, followed by Norway and Portugal, which are up 57% and 52%, respectively, according to Sandberg.

Everyone's travel insurance needs are different, according to the pros.

What should you insure when you travel this summer?

Laura Heidt, the insurance desk manager for Brownell Travel in Birmingham, Ala., says there are some things every travel insurance policy should cover this summer.

"I always recommend people insure for the unexpected, such as flight delays, missed connections and medical coverage while out of the country," she says. "If you are willing to forgo the cancellation and delay coverages, which are typically the most expensive parts of a policy, you should still, absolutely, cover yourself with at least the medical component."

Heidt says she's seen a 10% boost in travel insurance sales for this summer compared with the same time last year, and many people are opting for the pricier "cancel for any reason" policies, which allow you to cancel your trip and receive a partial refund of your prepaid, nonrefundable travel expenses.

Travel insurance companies are seeing a similar trend.

"A majority of travelers choose a comprehensive travel insurance plan which includes coverage for trip cancellation, emergency medical, lost or delayed baggage and delay," explains Tim Dodge, vice president of marketing at Arch RoamRight .

He says this year, travelers are purchasing travel insurance on average within 11 days of their trip deposit to receive the additional benefit of the waiver exclusion for pre-existing conditions.

If you're traveling with kids, you'll need extra travel insurance protection.

Get a policy that's tailored to your needs

Travel insurance comes in all shapes and sizes. So you'll want to try a few on for size before you buy. You can actually do that, since most policies have a "free look" period that makes them fully refundable for the first week or two (depending on the policy).

"It's important to consider your specific travel plans and any potential disruptions in order to protect your investment," says Robert Gallagher, president of the US Travel Insurance Association (USTIA).

He says traditional plans offer coverage for unexpected cancellations, interruptions, delays, emergency medical expenses and lost or delayed baggage. For international travel, USTIA advises opting for a plan with emergency medical and medical evacuation coverage.

It also depends on who you're traveling with. For example, if you're traveling with your children, you'll want to consider a family-friendly priced travel insurance plan. But your destination also matters, says Carol Mueller, vice president at Berkshire Hathaway Travel Protection (BHTP).

"For young families, I typically recommend the ExactCare plan due to its pricing of two children at no additional cost for every one adult on the policy," she says. "However, for families venturing abroad, I’d suggest considering a plan like BHTP's LuxuryCare, which is designed to meet the distinctive needs of a high-investment vacation.”

You have choices when it comes to family coverage. For example, Allianz’s OneTrip Prime plan also includes coverage for kids 17 and younger when traveling with a parent or grandparent.

Medical evacuations can be expensive.

Look beyond travel insurance for extra protection

Mike Hallman, CEO of the air medical transport and travel security program Medjet , says MedjetHorizon memberships are selling briskly. They offer 24/7 security and crisis response, as well as transportation to a hospital at home if you're injured. Travelers are skittish even if they aren't going bungee-jumping.

"With geopolitical tensions still growing — all the riots in France, Italy, Ecuador and other tourist destinations over the last year — and crime causing the threat level to be raised for the Bahamas and Jamaica, it’s no wonder," he adds.

He makes a good point. Travel insurance can cover many of the events you're likely to encounter, such as a missed connection, lost luggage or a medical emergency. But it's also important to know what isn't covered — and to make plans accordingly.

Beware of travel insurance "overconfidence"

The summer travel season is still a few months away, but insurance experts are worried. Yes, they've seen a general uptick in insurance sales, but some travelers remain unprotected.

"We've started to see early signs that travelers are exercising less caution and are slightly less likely to sign up for travel insurance," says Joe Cronin, CEO of International Citizens Insurance .

By comparison, travelers purchased plenty of medical insurance in 2020 and 2021 because of the pandemic. Cronin believes travelers were terrified of getting stuck with COVID-19 in a foreign country without insurance.

"To those who are thinking about traveling internationally without travel insurance, my recommendation is to spend a few minutes looking deeper before deciding," he adds.

Some types of insurance, such as a standalone medical policy, cost just a few dollars a day. A medical evacuation membership is also affordable. And even full-featured travel insurance policies can be cost-effective when you consider the benefits.

"Don’t put your summer travel memories, or your investment, at risk by forgoing the right vacation coverage," says Daniel Durazo, director of communications at Allianz Partners USA . "With international travel peaking during the summer season, an unprotected trip can leave travelers on the hook for costs resulting from an unexpected trip delay or medical emergency abroad."

Bottom line: Seriously consider travel insurance to protect your trip — and don't be overconfident. You never know what might happen this summer.

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Travel could be a good deal this summer. Here's when plane ticket prices will peak.

Spring is springing, and according to Hopper, it’s time to start thinking about your summer vacation plans.

New data from the online booking site shows some favorable trends for travelers in the next few months, including slightly lower airfares compared with 2023 and hotel and car rental prices that are more or less flat year-over-year.

Here’s what you need to know as you prepare to book, whether you’re looking for a domestic getaway or go on an overseas adventure. It’s also not too late to take advantage of deals on some last-minute trips.

How much are spring and summer plane tickets?

According to Hopper, the best deals right now are on domestic airline tickets. Round-trip flights within the U.S. are averaging $290 in April, but prices are expected to rise in the months ahead.

Hopper’s data shows prices for domestic flights will peak between May and June at $315 on average, then will gradually fall through the summer, reaching a low of $264 on average in September.

On a call with investors discussing first-quarter earnings Wednesday, Delta Air Lines CEO Ed Bastian said summer travel demand has been pushed forward in recent years in part because schools, especially in the South, are finishing their summer breaks earlier in the year.

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This summer also will be a good time to travel internationally; Hopper data shows fares to most destinations abroad are down compared with last year. 

“Airfare to international destinations continues to improve following two years of bloated prices due to quickly recovering demand, high fuel prices and supply constraints. Airfare to most major regions of the world has dropped compared to last year with the exception of trips to Canada,” Hayley Berg, Hopper’s chief economist, said in the report. “International fares remain higher than pre-pandemic levels to most regions, as higher fuel prices persist and airlines continue to rebuild capacity to many regions.”

How much will a hotel room for the spring and summer cost?

Hotel prices remain mostly flat compared with the same time last year. Rooms in the U.S. are averaging $206 a night; better deals are available in some trending international destinations like Osaka, Japan, and Istanbul, Turkey.

According to Hopper, Las Vegas, New York and Chicago remain popular destinations in the U.S.

Will car rental prices rise this summer?

Car rental prices also haven’t increased much since last year and average $42 a day, according to Hopper.

The report shows most travelers rent a car for about four days, and warm-weather destinations like Orlando and Los Angeles remain popular pickup points.

Zach Wichter is a travel reporter for USA TODAY based in New York. You can reach him at [email protected].

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Summer in Scandinavia: five eco-friendly ideas to holiday like a local

The essence of a Nordic summer is to lean into a slower pace of life and embrace nature, from staying in a Swedish summer house to gentle canoe tours in Finland

Oslo: summer in the city

With swimmable harbours in Stockholm, Oslo, Helsinki and across Denmark’s cities, not to mention plenty of ways to enjoy the sea, from kayaking to urban fishing, there’s often a seaside air to Nordic cities in summer, and especially in Oslo.

One of the best summer activities is to tour the Oslofjord and its archipelago by boat – pack a picnic and set sail in search of hidden swimming spots and colourful island houses. Brim Explorer is one of the best options: an eco-friendly boat company offering silent tours powered by an electric motor (tours from £44). You can also show your love for the water by joining Mad Goats in their fjord clean-up operations every Sunday; participation gives you access to one of their saunas for free and a free burger at the end.

There’s a growing art scene to discover around the harbour. The National Museum is showing an unmissable exhibition by Sápmi artist Britta Marakatt-Labba focused on the environmental struggle and climate issues seen from an indigenous perspective, until August. Afterwards, stroll around the harbour promenade past the opera house, and visit the Munch Museum . There is a new family-friendly beach, Operastranda, by the Opera House this year; it’s also great to swim at the Sørenga seawater pool . Stay at the eco-conscious Oslo Guldsmeden , a Nordic-Balinese hotel in the Vika district from £100 a night.

Explore Denmark ’s sunniest isle

Bornholm is officially the Danes’ favourite holiday spot (as voted for last year in the Danish Travel Awards). Reachable by bus and ferry or hydrofoil from Copenhagen, it’s known as the country’s sunshine island: Svaneke, a charming harbour town on the west coast, is the sunniest spot in the whole of Denmark.

There’s no need for a car: you can get around relatively easily by bike and bus to explore fishing villages and small towns such as Gudhjem, known for its national cooking competition , and sunny Svaneke, in search of the best ice-cream, smoked herring and locally brewed beer. Bornholm has an artist colony vibe reminiscent of parts of Cornwall and is well known for its ceramics. You can find small workshops and galleries dotted around its villages, and especially in the town of Nexø, where there is a ceramics school. Beaches are wide, sandy and beautiful – especially child-friendly, dune-backed Dueodde, which Lonely Planet recently listed as one of the 20 best beaches in Europe .

New this year, Eco Beach Camp offers glamping from about £150 a night (sleeping two to four) on the beach just steps from the island’s Michelin-starred Kadeau restaurant, known for its focus on hyper-local, sustainable food. Or rent a summer house through firms including Novasol and Dancenter where rates start from about £300 for a week’s stay. It’s expected that you’ll bring basics with you, including bed linen.

Norway’s Arctic hiking route

Culture and nature come together on Norway’s longest hiking route this summer. The 400-mile Nordlandsruta , which runs along the Norwegian-Swedish border, will be joining in the celebrations to mark the Arctic city of Bodø’s year in the spotlight as one of 2024’s European Capitals of Culture. There are a range of artist-led events in cabins along the trail, and activities include poetry and portrait workshops and a mobile perfumery making scents from the herbs that hikers pick along the route.

Evening entertainment includes campfire cooking, improv theatre and Sápmi lassoo throwing. It also plays into another key Nordic travel theme: friluftsliv , a love of the great outdoors. Norwegians love to hike and there is an extensive network of trails, with hiking cabins along them, across the country.

It’s a beautiful hike – whether you’re in the region for the celebrations or not – passing through the Arctic Circle, Laponian Area world heritage site , national parks and Sápmi cities. From meadows filled with wildflowers to snow-capped mountains, reindeer-herding plateaux and raging rivers, it has all the drama you’d expect of this northern landscape. There are 43 unstaffed huts on the route – you’ll need a key from Norwegian trekking organisation DNT to use them.

To walk the whole route would take around six weeks, but it’s broken down into eight smaller stages for those with less time. For ramblers with an eye on reindeer herding and Sápmi husbandry, the 57-mile stretch from Raudlia to Susendalen treks across two valleys and past the hat-shaped Hatten mountain while the 45-mile section from Bolna to Umbukta skirts the sacred Sápmi mountain of Auronasen, silver mines and a glacier. Weekend hikes along the trail are also possible from Narvik and Bodø.

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Finland’s peaceful waterways

If you like lakes, islands and trees, Finland is the place for you – it is the most forested country in Europe and has more bodies of water than any other country in the world . In the Kainuu region in the east of the country, it’s easy to get away from the crowds for pure immersion in Nordic nature.

Nature Travels offers self-guided canoe tours in the region where you can camp wild along the route, fish for your supper and go at your own pace. The pick of the bunch is a remote adventure on the Tar Route (from £154 per person, for three nights/four days, based on two people, including all equipment and transfers to start point), the historic route once used to transport tar to the Baltic Sea. Instead of tar, your cargo will be just yourselves, your tent and enough food for a four to eight-day tour of quiet waterways, short and easily bypassed rapids, and protected islands.

Along the route you might spot moose, foxes, owls or even eagles. Stop to fish for your dinner, cook it on an open fire and retire to a lean-to shelter or tent in the evening. Look out, too, for island saunas, dotted along the route, where you can ease the tension in your back and arms after a hard day’s paddle. Don’t forget to pack insect repellent: Finland’s forests are known for their pesky flies.

This route commonly starts from Kuhmo, accessed by train and bus from Helsinki, while Helsinki itself can be reached by ferry from Stockholm if you prefer not to fly.

Stay in a Swedish summer house

It’s traditional in this part of the world to spend at least part of the summer in a “summer house” (actually more of a simple cabin) in nature. The essence of summer house life is leaning into a slower pace of life: read a book under a tree, bake a cake, a gentle walk. It’s about living in harmony with nature, too, and embracing the joys it offers, including sea swimming, fishing, hiking and boating.

The Stockholm archipelago is one of the most accessible and popular summer house destinations. Access is via one of the many public ferries (one-way trips from the city pier cost up to £14 depending on the location). It’s as easy as taking a bus.

The region is protected by the Archipelago Foundation , which preserves public access to land and water in the area, and has a wide range of characterful accommodation spread all over the islands. They include a 19th-century former customs house on the remote and rocky island of Huvudskär, remade into a rustic youth hostel (room rates from £186 for a four-bed room), as well as summer cottages on the activity-packed southern island of Utö, where two-person cabins start at around £338 for a week in high season.

Summer cottages usually require you to bring bed linen. Depending on which island you choose, you might need to bring all your supplies for the week too. Peak season for Scandinavia is typically July – travel in August for slightly reduced rates.

Copenhagen-based Laura Hall writes the Modern Scandinavian newsletter

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This Celeb-loved Brand Launched a '90s-inspired Sneaker — and It's the One Shoe We're Shopping for Summer

Say hello to the shoe of the season.

We independently evaluate all recommended products and services. If you click on links we provide, we may receive compensation. Learn more .

Travel + Leisure / Tyler Roeland

Move over Air Force 1s, there’s a new lifestyle sneaker in town. Cariuma, the celebrity-adored and Travel + Leisure editor-approved shoe brand, just launched a new style of sneakers: the Uba Pros . Striking the perfect balance between style and comfort, these new Cariuma shoes have only been on the market for one day, and they're already generating a lot of buzz. 

Building on the success of Cariuma’s ever-comfortable Oca Lows, Slip-ons , and Catiba Pro Lows , the brand is now adventuring into the world of streetwear, which isn’t all that of a surprise; just one look at the shoes on any New York City street , and you’ll see dozens of '90s-style skateboarding and basketball kicks. And, if any brand has the capability to fuse the style of a lifestyle shoe with a dreamy, memory foam-padded insole, it’s Cariuma — and I’m here for it. 

Cariuma Uba Pro Smoke White Sneakers

Available in three colors and men's and women's sizes, the Uba Pros also mark Cariuma’s step into cupsole sneakers. Fans of streetwear are well aware that cupsole shoes are an iconic, skater-esque style known for their sturdy, one-piece soles and rubber outsoles that perfectly contours, or "cups," to your foot. This shape also provides extra protection and support to the heel, toe, and arches, making it popular for casual activities like skateboarding, as well as a great choice for comfy walking shoes.  

To put the Cariuma spin on its inaugural cupsole style, the brand incorporated its signature triple-layered reinforcement zone, ensuring unmatched durability for the avid skater, explorer, or everyday commuter. Designed with top-quality suede from Leather Working Group Gold-rated suppliers, as well as recycled fabric, and sustainably sourced sugarcane and natural rubber, these eco-friendly, high-performing sneakers are just as good for your feet as they are for the environment (for each pair purchased, Cariuma plants two trees in the Brazilian rainforest). 

Cariuma Uba Pro All-black Sneakers

But, the Uba Pro line goes beyond just durability and sustainability. The shoes are meticulously crafted to provide all-day comfortable wearing, which is made possible with their impact-absorbing midsoles and multiple layers of cushioning, complimented by ample ankle support. Whether you're maneuvering through the skatepark or strolling the bustling streets of a new city, you can do so confidently knowing that every step will be receiving ample padding, shock absorption, and stability. Plus, they have breathable mesh panels to keep the inside of the shoe cool when things get sweaty in the summertime. 

I don’t know about you, but this shoe seems to check every single box on what makes an excellent travel shoe. Comfortable? Check. Supportive? Check. Durable? Check. And of course: stylish? Double check. I’m no fortune teller, but I’m confident that these '90s-style sneakers are going to be a hit with travelers this season. 

Cariuma Uba Pro Black and Ivory Sneakers

But here’s the catch: Cariuma drops are known to sell out fast , so if I were you, I’d snag a pair of the Uba Pros before they fly off of the virtual shelves. Should that happen and you still want to experience the next-level comfort that is a pair of Cariumas, keep scrolling to check out the other best-selling styles that are also widely loved by shoppers. 

More of the Most Comfortable Shoes at Cariuma: 

Cariuma oca low off-white canvas sneakers, cariuma catiba low pros sneakers, cariuma white leather slip-on sneakers, cariuma salvas white premium leather sneakers, cariuma naioca red gum suede sneakers.

At the time of publishing, the price started at $129. 

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