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25 Top Things to Do in Vermont

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Lake Champlain

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

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

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

Courtesy of Ben & Jerry's

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

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

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

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

Island Line Trail

Courtesy of Hello Burlington and Local Motion

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

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

Experience the sugarhouses

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

[Read: The Top Romantic Getaways in Vermont .]

Try out a delicious creemee

Courtesy of Canteen Creemee Company

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

Breweries and beer trails

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

Vermont Teddy Bear

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

Address: 6655 Shelburne Road, Shelburne, VT 05482

Simon Pearce Flagship

Courtesy of Simon Pearce

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

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

Hit the ski slopes in Stowe and beyond

Courtesy of Stowe Mountain Resort

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

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

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

Trapp Family Lodge

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

Address: 700 Trapp Hill Road, Stowe, VT 05672

Vermont Cheese Trail

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

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

Liberty Hill Farm

Courtesy of Liberty Hill Farm

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

Address: 511 Liberty Hill, Rochester, VT 05767

General stores

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

Visit the former house and grave of Robert Frost

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

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

Grafton Inn

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

Address: 92 Main St., Grafton, VT 05146

Shelburne Museum

Courtesy of Shelburne Museum

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

Address: 6000 Shelburne Road, Shelburne, VT 05482

Basin Harbor

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

Address: 4800 Basin Harbor Road, Vergennes, VT 05491

The Tyler Place Family Resort

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

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

Address: 175 Tyler Place, Swanton, VT 05488

Woodstock Inn & Resort

Courtesy of Woodstock Inn & Resort

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

Address: 14 The Green, Woodstock, VT 05091

Northeast Kingdom

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

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

Marsh-Billings-Rockefeller National Historical Park

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

Address: 54 Elm St., Woodstock, VT 05091

Courtesy of Twin Farms

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

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

Address: 452 Royalton Turnpike, Barnard, VT 05031

The Essex, Vermont's Culinary Resort & Spa

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

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

Address: 70 Essex Way, Essex, VT 05452

The Coffee Roost

Courtesy of Vermont Artisan Coffee & Tea

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

Address: 11 Cabin Lane, Waterbury Center, VT 05677

You might also be interested in:

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

Tags: Travel , New England Vacations , US Vacations

World's Best Places To Visit

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

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New England Wanderlust

Vermont  ·  March 21, 2023

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

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

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

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

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

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

Best Things To Do In Vermont

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

1. Tour Hildene

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

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

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

2. Visit Stowe

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

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

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

3. Stroll Around Manchester

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

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

4. Hit The Slopes At Amazing Ski Resorts

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

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

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

5. Inner Tube Down A River

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

8. See The Covered Bridges

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

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

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

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

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

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

10. Eat ALL The Cheese

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

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

11. Taste The Local Maple Syrups, Too

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

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

12. Visit The Breweries

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

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

13. Shop At The Vermont Country Store

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

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

14. Drive Route 100

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

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

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

15. Have A Maple Creemee

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

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

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

16. Shop At Church Street Marketplace

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

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

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

17. Walk Around Woodstock

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

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

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

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

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

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

19. Attend A Vermont Christmas Celebration

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

A few of the best holiday celebrations around Vermont are:

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

20. See The Old Round Church

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

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

21. Sip The Local Spirits

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

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

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

22. Splurge On A Weekend At A Top Vermont Resort

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

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

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

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

23. Find Your Way Through The Great Vermont Corn Maze

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

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

24. Tour The Ben & Jerry’s Factory

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

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

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

25. Visit The Shoppes At Quechee Gorge Village

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

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

26. See Quechee Gorge

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

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

27. Get All The Chocolates You Can

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

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

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

28. Visit A Rock Quarry

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

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

29. Stay Overnight At A Farm

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

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

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

🐑 Click here to check out rates and availability!

30. Enjoy A Full Vermont Country Breakfast

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

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

31. Go To The Top Of The Bennington Battle Monument

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

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

32. Have A Fall Foliage Getaway

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

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

33. Drive Smuggler’s Notch In The Fall

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

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

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

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

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

35. Bike The Burlington Greenway Bike Path

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

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

36. Go On A Spooky Queen City Ghostwalk

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

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

37. Explore The Beautiful Vermont Lakes

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

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

38. Take A Scenic Cruise Along Lake Champlain

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

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

39. Visit The Champlain Islands, Too!

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

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

40. Visit Shelburne Farms

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

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

41. Stay At The Trapp Family Lodge

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

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

42. Visit Cold Hollow Cider Mill

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

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

43. Shop At The Simon Pearce Flagship Store

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

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

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

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

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

45. Do A Wheel Workshop At Farmhouse Pottery

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

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

46. Find All The Best Country Stores

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

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

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

47. Visit The 100 Mile Overlook

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

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

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

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

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

Here are a few amazing places to check out:

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

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

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

Here are some of my favorites to check out:

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

50. Stay At A Cozy Inn

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

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

These are few that I recommend checking out:

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

51. Eat At American Flatbread

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

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

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

52. Visit The Ethan Allen Homestead & Museum

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

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

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

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

53. Attend A Fall Festival

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

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

54. And A Winter Festival, Too!

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

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

55. Visit The Vermont Teddy Bear Factory

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

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

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

56. Eat At The Famous Blue Benn Diner

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

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

57. Do The Canopy Walk At VINS Nature Center

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

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

58. Walk The Robert Frost Interpretive Trail

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

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

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

59. See Vermont By Train

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

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

60. Explore The State Capital

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

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

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

Bonus: Visit The Vermont Beetlejuice Filming Location!

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

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

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

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

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

What Is The Best Time To Visit Vermont?

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

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

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

How Many Days Do You Need In Vermont?

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

What Is Vermont Known For?

Vermont is famous for several things, including:

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

More Of My Vermont Travel Guides:

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

Other posts you may find helpful:

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

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

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

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

Aug 24, 2021 • 6 min read

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

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

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

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

Church Street Marketplace, Burlington

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

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

Vermont’s 7 best hiking trails

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Vermont’s best road trips  

Lake Willoughby, Northeast Kingdom

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

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

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

Smuggler’s Notch

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

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

Lake Champlain

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Table of Contents

50 Best Things to Do in Vermont

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

3. Sample Vermont craft beers

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

4. Visit the Cold Hollow Cider Mill

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

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

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

5. Explore charming Woodstock, Vermont

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

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

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

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

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

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

7. Hike to the summit of Camel’s Hump

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

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

8. Check out the Trapp Family Lodge in Stowe

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

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

9. Swim in a cool Vermont lake

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

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

10. Keep your eyes out for the Lake Monster

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

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

11. Explore the covered bridges

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

12. See the Lincoln family home, Hildene in Manchester

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

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

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

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

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

14. Visit the Vermont Teddy Bear Factory

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

15. Visit the baby animals at Billings Farm and Museum

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

18. Go skiing at Stowe Mountain Resort

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

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

19. Visit a local farmer’s market

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

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

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

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

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

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

22. Visit the top of the Bennington Battle Monument

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

23. Catch some fantastic live theatre

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

24. Drive to the top of Mt. Equinox

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

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

25. Explore the Shelburne Museum

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

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

26. Check out the Old Round Church

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

27. Stop at Vermont Cookie Love when driving Route 7

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

28. Sail aboard a Lake Champlain day cruise

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

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

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

30. Visit Bingham Falls

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

31. Get spooked at Emily’s Bridge

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

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

32. Go biking on the Kingdom Trails

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

33. Visit the Vermont State House

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

34. Check out the Calvin Coolidge State Historic Site

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

35. Photograph the fall foliage

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

36. Dine at a farm-to-table restaurant

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

37. Find serenity in nature at Lake Willoughby

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

38. Admire Quechee Gorge from above

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

39. Visit the Morgan Horse Farm

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

40. Bring your canine pal to Dog Mountain

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

41. Visit Vermont’s oldest general store

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

42. Eat as much Cabot cheese as you can stomach

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

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

Read Next: Exploring the  Vermont Cheese Trail

43. Drink a maple latte

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

44. Ride the gondola to the top of Mount Mansfield

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

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

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

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

46. Browse Northshire Bookstore

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

47. Have a massive, delicious breakfast

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

48. Take a ride on the Green Mountain Railroad

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

49. Check out the Vermont Country Store

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

50. Eat a maple creemee

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

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

FAQ About Vermont

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

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

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

What is the prettiest town in Vermont?

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

What’s the best way to get to Vermont?

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

What is the best way to get around Vermont?

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

What is the weather like in Vermont?

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

What should I pack for a trip to Vermont?

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

What is Vermont known for?

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

More places to explore in Vermont:

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

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

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

Touropia Travel

Discover the World

21 Best Things to do in Vermont

By Alex Schultz · Last updated on October 13, 2023

Full of fertile fields, farms, and forests, the mostly rural state of Vermont is a very peaceful and picturesque place to visit with lots of stunning scenery on show. Nestled away in the northeast of the States, it lies on the border with Canada, next to Massachusetts , New Hampshire , and New York .

While lots of people come for its charming towns and villages or to sample its tasty local produce, just as many visit for its fascinating historic tourist attractions and mountain ski resorts. Although Vermont is a delight to explore at any time of year, fall attracts the most visitors due to its famed and fetching foliage. With everything from exploring majestic mountains to idyllic lake islands among things to do in Vermont, as well as the enticing Appalachian Trail to hike along, the Green Mountain state truly does have something for everyone to enjoy.

21. Lake Willoughby

A very peaceful and picturesque place to spend some time, the lovely Lake Willoughby lies amidst the almost endless forests of Vermont’s Northeast Kingdom. Tucked away in between two massive fjord-like mountains, its reflective waters offer all kinds of fun outdoor activities with stupendous scenery, nature, and views on show wherever you go.

Known for its crystal-clear waters and chilly temperature, the large lake was carved out of the Earth aeons ago by slowly moving glaciers. Flanked by the steep, craggy cliffs of both Mount Pisgah and Mount Hor, its southern shores are surrounded by the unspoiled Willoughby State Forest with pretty hiking paths and cycling trails snaking their way here and there.

In addition to swimming, fishing, and sailing out on the lake, visitors can stay in cosy cottages or at campsites with the tiny lakeside town of Westmore being home to a couple of restaurants and shops.

20. Creamery Covered Bridge

Lying on the outskirts of Brattleboro, not too far from the border with Massachusetts, is one of the state’s standout historic sights. Set in an isolated spot overlooking a gorgeous stream, the charming Creamery Covered Bridge makes for some fantastic photos as it stands out delightfully against the lush foliage all around it.

The last surviving covered bridge of its kind in the region, it impressively dates to 1879 with some intricate lattice work and exposed wooden beams lining its sides. Very well-preserved, its attractive exterior is painted a dark red hue which makes it look somewhat like a farmyard barn.

As it is now closed to traffic, visitors can only stroll across the terrific truss bridge and snap photos of the stream below or stop off for a picnic in the colorful little garden that lies alongside it.

19. Sugarbush Farm

If you’re looking to try some of Vermont’s famous local produce, then the scenic Sugarbush Farm is surely one of the best places to go. Located just outside the quaint little village of Woodstock, it has various cheeses and maple syrups for you to sample while free self-guided tours teach you how they make their award-winning delicacies.

Set on a hillside in Central Vermont, the family-run farm sprawls over a huge area with fertile fields and centuries-old farmhouses situated next to soaring maple trees. While exploring its nature trails, guests can meet cute farm critters and see how trees are tapped before watching sap be boiled down into syrup and cheeses being made in its atmospheric old barns.

As well as trying some of Sugarbush’s sumptuous cheeses and maple syrups, visitors can also buy mustards, jams, and spreads in its on-site shop.

18. Buttermilk Falls

As it is home to not one, not two, but three twinkling waterfalls, the breathtaking Buttermilk Falls is definitely well worth checking out when driving around the Green Mountain State. Nestled amidst lots of lush woodlands, its cascades, gorges, and swimming holes lie not far from Ludlow with the excellent Okemo Mountain Resort set just a stone’s throw away.

Although each of the three falls only reach up to fifteen feet in height, they all make for spectacular sights as they course their way down rugged rock formations with dense foliage lying all around. At the bottom of both the lower and upper falls there are sizeable swimming holes for people to splash about in with the bubbling Branch Brook connecting them all together.

Aside from snapping some photos of the scenic spot and stopping off for a picnic, you can always hike about the surrounding woods and gorges which are full of idyllic trails.

17. Billings Farm

Widely considered to be one of the best outdoor history museums in the US, the brilliant Billings Farm can be found right in the center of Woodstock. As well as interesting educational exhibits and hands-on activities, it has paddocks full of farm animals and colorful gardens for visitors to amble around with impressive old historic buildings dotted here and there.

Dedicated to the telling of Vermont’s rich rural heritage, the working farm and its adjoining museum highlight what life was like in the countryside back in the nineteenth century. In addition to strolling around barns full of original artifacts, photos and farm equipment, guests can watch daily milking demonstrations and shop for souvenirs in its store.

Afterwards you can always explore its resplendent gardens and refined farm manager’s house, which dates to 1890, and pet adorable calves, foals and lambs in its pristine pastures.

16. Smugglers Notch State Park

Winding its way through the gorgeous Green Mountains, Smugglers Notch State Park boasts lots of stunning landscapes, scenery, and nature. Once used as a smuggling route into Canada , its elevated confines now instead have some epic hiking, biking, and rock climbing routes to enjoy while superb skiing and snowmobiling can be had in the cold winter months.

Located at a height of over 2,000 feet, the picturesque park is named for the lofty pass that separates Mount Mansfield from Spruce Peak and the Sterling Range. Due to its rugged and remote terrain, both goods and livestock were ferried through the area with smugglers and fugitive slaves using its numerous caves as hideaways.

Nowadays, both Vermonters and tourists come here to hike and bike about its shady woods or climb its vertical cliffs and large boulders with campsites and lean-to shelters also found here and there.

15. Moss Glen Falls

Not far away is yet another scenic nature spot for visitors to Vermont to enjoy; the marvelous Moss Glen Falls. A very popular attraction, the wonderful waterfall lies at the end of a short but slippery trail, just a few minutes’ drive from the center of Stowe.

Impressively enough, it towers 125 feet in height with its jet white waters tumbling down the side of a steep ravine. Although it is not the tallest in the state, it is certainly one of the most spellbinding as its pretty pool is also surrounded by lots of lovely trees and shrubs.

Besides basking in its beauty, you can also hike a bit further along its boardwalk which meanders its way through patches of wildflowers, pockets of pristine woods and offers some fantastic views of the peaceful creek.

14. Quechee Gorge

Thanks to its sublime views and startling scenery, the gaping Quechee Gorge is visited by countless tourists each and every day. While most hail from New England, many come from further afield to ogle at what is often called ‘Vermont’s Little Grand Canyon’.

Now protected as part of a state park, the gigantic gorge remarkably plunges more than 160 feet to the rushing Ottauquechee River down below. Formed millennia ago by slowly moving glaciers, its sheer walls are lined by lush woods with rough rocks and the fast-flowing river lying at its bottom.

The best place to view the natural phenomenon is from the lofty U.S. Route 4 bridge which spans the gorge and offers up unrivaled photo opportunities. In addition, you can also hike along either of its verdant banks while thrillseekers may want to whitewater raft its roaring rapids.

13. Church Street Marketplace (Burlington)

As it is packed with cafes and restaurants, bars and boutiques, the lively Church Street Marketplace really is the best place to dine, shop, and go out in Burlington. The heart and soul of life in town, the massive outdoor pedestrian mall attracts people from all around the state with interesting historical sites and entertaining street performers also on show.

Since being established in 1980, the shopping area has expanded enormously with almost a hundred establishments now sprawling across four blocks in the city centre. These include not only open-air cafes and chain stores, but little local art galleries, brilliant restaurants, and of course a Ben & Jerry’s ice cream parlour.

Aside from enjoying its vibrant feel and taking in its attractive architecture and fine public artworks, visitors can also watch some superb street performers and attend some of the fun cultural events and festivals that regularly take place.  

12. Cabot Farmers’ Village Store

First opened all the way back in 1919, the Cabot Farmers’ Village Store has been serving not only the community but cheese lovers and tourists ever since. Located in the small and secluded village of Cabot, it is here that you can buy and try the ‘World’s Best Cheddar’ cheese.

  Besides its delicious dairy products, the store also has lots of sumptuous sour creams, dips and yogurts on offer. While tours of its factory are no longer taking place, there is a great video on how all its dairy products and cheeses are produced.   As everything is sourced from its cooperative of over 800 farm families, the store is the perfect place for sampling some lovely local Vermont products and buying some award-winning cheeses to take home as souvenirs.  

11. Bennington Battle Monument

Towering over its surroundings, the Bennington Battle Monument commemorates what many consider to be a major turning point in the American Revolutionary War. Set in the southwest corner of the state, its ninety-three meter high stone obelisk certainly makes for a spectacular sight.

  While the battle of 1777 actually took place 10 miles away in Walloomsac, New York, a local historical society settled on this site to erect a monument for its centenary celebration. At the foot of its ostentatious obelisk are numerous statues of influential officers such as John Stark and Seth Warner; both of whom fought in the battle.   From the obelisk’s observatory level, visitors can enjoy phenomenal views out over the charming countryside with the gorgeous Green Mountains to be spied in the distance.  

10. Burlington Waterfront Park

The largest city in the state, Burlington boasts a wonderful waterfront park that lies on the scenic shores of the shimmering Lake Champlain. Nestled away in the northwest of Vermont, the pretty, pleasant, and peaceful park lends itself perfectly to all kinds of recreational activities and is very popular among both locals and tourists alike.

  Besides ambling peacefully along its beautiful boardwalk, visitors can cycle along its bike path, use its outdoor fitness amenities or enjoy stupendous sunsets over the lake. In addition to this, there are also some fantastic flowerbeds and good-looking gardens to wander around.   Over the course of the year, Burlington Waterfront Park hosts numerous cultural events, concerts, and festivals with lots of people packing into the park to enjoy the shows and performances.  

9. Shelburne Museum

Set just to the south of Burlington is the sensational Shelburne Museum which is remarkably home to the largest collection of Americana in the States. Sprawling over thirty-nine buildings are over 150,000 items for you to peruse with astounding art, artifacts, and architecture all on show.

  Founded by Electra Havemeyer Webb in 1947, the colossal collection includes everything from ceramics and carriages to folk art and furniture with a plethora of American prints and paintings on display.   In addition to its innumerable items, objects, and artworks, the museum also has lots of historic buildings from around New England and New York for visitors to explore. Many of these were actually relocated and resembled on the museum’s village-like grounds with numerous old houses to be found alongside a schoolhouse, sawmill and county jail.  

8. Hildene (Lincoln Family Home)

Once the summer home of Robert Todd Lincoln, the extensive and extravagant estate of Hildene can be found on the outskirts of Manchester in the southwest of the state. Set amidst lovingly landscaped lawns and gorgeous gardens that overlook the Battenkill Valley, the Georgian Revival mansion is now one of the most popular tourist attractions in Vermont.

  Inhabited by descendants of President Abraham Lincoln right up until 1975, the stately home and its grand grounds were subsequently turned into a magnificent museum. Full of fine furniture and fetching furnishings from the famous family, the massive mansion is fascinating to explore with lots of age-old antiques and artifacts on show.   Besides wandering around the Lincoln Family Home, visitors can also take a look at its adjoining agricultural center and old outbuildings. On top of this, there are also twelve kilometers of hiking and skiing trails to explore through its marvelous meadows, forests, and wetlands.  

7. Ben & Jerry’s Factory Tour

Famed around the world for its irresistible ice creams and fabulous frozen yogurts, Ben & Jerry’s was founded in 1978 in Burlington. At the nearby town of Waterbury, visitors can take a tour around its factory to learn all there is to know about its iconic ice cream and even sample a scoop or two.

  Besides hearing about how Ben and Jerry met and came up with the idea to make ice cream, you can also see the production line in action. In addition, there is an informational video presentation that tells you all about how they became the all-conquering ice cream empire they are today.   After taking the terrific and tasty tour, visitors can stop by the ‘Flavor Graveyard’ to see little tombstones to outlandish flavours that were discontinued or didn’t make the grade.  

6. Skiing in Killington Resort

The largest ski area in the Eastern United States, Killington Resort spans seven summits and boasts lots of stunning snow-coated slopes and scenery. Dominated and defined by the prominent 1,289 meter Killington Peak, the popular Vermont getaway is commonly known as the ‘Beast of the East’.

  Perfect for beginners, intermediates, and advanced skiers and snowboarders alike, the resort has over 150 runs to choose from which can be accessed by its twenty-one ski lifts. While Killington Peak attracts the most visitors due to its 930 meter vertical drop, both Skye Peak and Bear Mountain have some lovely trails and pistes to explore.   Dotted about the ski area’s slopes are a huge array of lodges, inns, and cabins for visitors to stay in with lots of restaurants and cafes also on offer. While skiing is the main reason that everyone visits Killington Resort, it also has some great hiking and mountain biking in the summer months.  

5. Stowe Recreation Path

Winding its way through the wonderful woods and mountains of north-central Vermont, the superb Stowe Recreation Path is popular with locals and out-of-towners alike. Spanning eight kilometers in length, the gorgeous greenway stretches from Stowe Village right to Top Notch Resort on the Mountain Road.

  Internationally recognized for its scenic nature and outstanding beauty, the recreational trail passes through lots of lovely landscapes with breathtaking views of the surrounding mountains. On the way, visitors can stop off at the handful of local restaurants and lodges that line the route.   Besides hiking along the picturesque and peaceful path, many people choose to jog, run or cycle with snowshoeing and cross-country skiing also being popular in the snowy winter months.  

4. Hike the Appalachian Trail

One of the best and most beautiful hiking routes in the States, the Appalachian Trail stretches all the way from Springer Mountain in Georgia to Mount Katahdin in Maine. Of its 2,200 miles (3,500 kilometers), 240 pass through Vermont taking you past lots of incredible natural sights and stupendous scenery.

  Largely following the ridge of the southern Green Mountains, the Vermont part of the trail takes you over such lofty mounts as Stratton Mountain and Killington Peak. From up high you can enjoy lots of marvelous mountain vistas and fantastic views over the surrounding wilderness and countryside.   Hiking among all of the serene and secluded nature really is a treat as you pass through lots of untouched and unspoiled landscapes. Amidst the verdant forests, you’ll come across babbling brooks and shimmering streams with quiet campsites for you to stay at.  

3. Skiing in Stowe

Nicknamed the ‘Ski Capital of the East’, the cute, charming and quintessential Vermont village of Stowe is one of the best places to enjoy snow sports in New England. Nestled in a scenic valley with majestic mountains rising up all around it, it lies in in the northwest of the state along the almost mythical Mountain Road.

  On the snow-coated slopes of the 1,340 meter high Mount Mansfield, the tallest peak in Vermont, visitors will find the superb Stowe Mountain Resort. With over 110 runs to choose from, it really is ideal for beginner, intermediate, and advanced skiers with its numerous trails and terrain parks which are serviced by gondolas, surface lifts, and chairlifts. In addition, it also has one of the longest vertical drops in the northeast to try out.   Besides basking in the resort’s cosy and classy ambience, visitors can also check out the amazing Vermont Ski and Snowboard Museum. While most people come for its sensational ski slopes, Stowe also has some excellent hiking, mountain biking, and rock climbing in the summer months.  

2. See the Fall Foliage

One of the most magical and memorable times to visit Vermont is in fall when its luscious landscapes are coated in an astounding array of kaleidoscopic colors. Widely regarded to be one of, if not the best place in the whole world to view fall foliage, it truly is a special and spectacular time to travel around the state.

  For a few weeks in September and October, the largely rural state is awash with color as brilliantly bright reds, yellows, and oranges that light up its mountains and meadows. As it is almost impossible to go anywhere without seeing pretty pockets of captivating color, Vermont’s quaint towns and villages are full of visitors who have come to see the fall foliage.   To make the most of their time in the state, many people drive along the stunning Shires of Vermont Byway or the ravishing and romantic Route 100. While the former takes you past historic towns and magnificent mountains, the latter meanders its way past farms, streams, and waterfalls with show-stopping scenery and fetching fall foliage wherever you go.  

1. Champlain Islands

Lying in the northwest corner of Vermont is the large and lovely Lake Champlain which borders both the state of New York and Canada. Dotted about its wonderful waters are a number of idyllic islands for you to visit which boast lots of gorgeous scenery and outstanding outdoor activities.

  Due to their peaceful and picturesque nature, the Champlain Islands are a treat to explore with no cities or crowds to speak of. Instead, there are lots of serene and secluded shorelines on offer as well as some charming countryside and scenic state parks. These lend themselves perfectly to all kinds of recreation activities with lots of superb swimming, kayaking, and boating to be enjoyed alongside hiking and cycling.   Of the eighty or so isles, Grand Isle is the largest and liveliest with some wonderful family-run inns and B&Bs to be found here and there. Many of the other islands are delightfully untouched and unspoiled and as such are ideal for a quiet getaway. One of the best and most beautiful places to visit in Vermont, the Champlain Islands are certainly worth checking out if you have the chance.

Map of Things to do in Vermont

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48 Fun Things To Do & Places To Visit In Vermont

By: Author Jerric Chong

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

Cabins in the woods.

Colorful autumn leaves.

All of the maple syrup that you can eat.

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

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

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

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

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

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

Table of Contents

1. Vermont Teddy Bear Factory

Alexander Sviridov / Shutterstock

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

It’s actually the Vermont Teddy Bear Factory .

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

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

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

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

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

You can also create your own as a keepsake souvenir.

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

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

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

2. Church Street Marketplace

Sean Pavone / Shutterstock

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

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

There’s always something going on at the marketplace.

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

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

Are you feeling peckish?

Grab a gelato from a food truck.

Do you like history?

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

Are you looking for unique things to do?

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

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

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

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

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

Jay Yuan / Shutterstock

You know Ben and Jerry’s.

Everyone knows Ben and Jerry’s.

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

The answer is “Waterbury, Vermont.”

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

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

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

RIP, Turtle Soup!

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

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

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

4. Billings Farm and Museum

Reimar / Shutterstock

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

5. Blue Paddle Bistro

Blue Paddle Bistro

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

6. Knight’s Spider Web Farm

Knight’s Spider Web Farm

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

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

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

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

If this sounds uncommon, it is.

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

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

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

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

7. Pond Hill Ranch Pro Rodeo Company

appaIoosa / flickr

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

8. Vermont Historical Society Museum

Don Shall / flickr

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

Check out the Vermont Historical Society Museum .

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

You’ll have a grand old time.

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

9. Vermont Institute of Natural Science Nature Center

Vermont Institute of Natural Science Nature Center

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Soar to its location as soon as you can!

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

10. Ethan Allen Homestead

lunita lu / flickr

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

11. Coolidge State Park

Magicpiano , CC BY-SA 3.0 , via Wikimedia Commons

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

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

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

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

Accommodations are available right there in the park.

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

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

Coolidge State Park is a must see destination in Vermont.

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

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

12. Vermont Antique Mall

Vermont Antique Mall

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

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

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

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

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

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

You might even be able to pet some alpacas!

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

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

Are you going to be one of them?

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

13. Mount Mansfield

julie deshaies / Shutterstock

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Address: VT, United States

14. Brattleboro Farmer’s Market

Brattleboro Farmer’s Market

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

15. East Corinth

Brian A Wolf / Shutterstock

Beetlejuice, Beetlejuice, Beetlejuice!

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

16. Get Air Trampoline Park

Ninafotoart / Shutterstock

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

What can you do when you’re forced indoors?

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

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

Jump on the trampolines.

Dive into the foam pits.

Play games of dodgeball or slamball.

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

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

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

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

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

17. The Lincoln Family Home

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Robert Todd Lincoln only ever lived here.

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

18. Canteen Creemee Company

Canteen Creemee Company

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

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

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

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

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

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

You can order an entire meal and not just dessert!

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

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

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

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

19. Texas Falls

Jonathan Clough / Shutterstock

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

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

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

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

The effort is worth it.

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

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

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

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

Address: Hancock, VT 05748, United States

20. Saxtons River Distillery

Saxtons River Distillery

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Swing by and enjoy a taste!

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

21. Shelburne Farms

vermontalm / Shutterstock

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

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

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

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

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

The farm itself is also worth a visit.

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

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

You definitely won’t want to miss it.

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

22. Old Round Church

Harold Stiver / Shutterstock

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Very few round churches are still standing.

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

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

23. Robert Frost Interpretive Trail

Robert Frost Interpretive Trail

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Address: Ripton, VT 05766, United States

24. Fairbanks Museum and Planetarium

Joseph Sohm / Shutterstock

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

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

Fortunately, the trip is worth it.

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

25. Waterfront Park

Ilir Hasa / Shutterstock

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

26. Green Mountain Railroad

Putneypics / flickr

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

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

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

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

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

You don’t have to get fancy, however.

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

Things like brunch are just a bonus.

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

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

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

27. Freedlyville Quarry

Sébastien Barré / flickr

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

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

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

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

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

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

Ice skaters use it in the winter.

Selfie-takers take some of their best shots there.

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

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

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

28. Rudyard Kipling House

Daderot , CC0, via Wikimedia Commons

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

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

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

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

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

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

Be courteous like Mowgli would!

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

29. Vermont Toy Museum

Vermont Toy Museum

What does your version of heaven look like?

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

30. Morse Farm Maple Sugarworks

Morse Farm Maple Sugarworks

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

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

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

The “sugar house” offers tours and tastings.

The woodshed theater rolls informative films.

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

Nature trails are everywhere for those who enjoy the outdoors.

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

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

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

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

31. Jennings Hall

Jennings Hall

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

32. Marsh-Billings-Rockefeller National Historical Park

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

Try Marsh-Billings-Rockefeller National Historical Park .

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

33. ArborTrek Canopy Adventures

MVolodymyr / Shutterstock

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

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

Kids can be strapped into climbing structures.

Teens can test their mettle on obstacle and rope courses.

Adults can go soaring through the treetops on ziplines.

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

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

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

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

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

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

34. Fleming Museum of Art

Fleming Museum of Art

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

It’s okay if you aren’t a student.

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

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

35. Smugglers’ Notch Resort

Smugglers’ Notch Resort

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

How awesome is that?

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

36. Estey Organ Museum

Estey Organ Museum

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

37. Paramount Theater

Jimmy Emerson, DVM / flickr

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

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

The opulence of the space can’t be overstated.

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

38. Pump House Indoor Waterpark

Pump House Indoor Waterpark

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

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

You can just buy a ticket online.

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

39. Montshire Museum of Science

Montshire Museum of Science

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

40. Whistling Man Schooner Company

Whistling Man Schooner Company

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

Look no further than the Whistling Man Schooner Company .

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

Cruises are available on both public and private sailboats.

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

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

No sailing experience is necessary.

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

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

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

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

It’s all up to you!

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

41. Club Metronome

Club Metronome

Nightlife enthusiasts, this one is for you.

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

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

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

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

The dress code is casual.

The menu is delicious.

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

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

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

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

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

42. Killington Ski Area

Ray Esteves / Shutterstock

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

43. Great Vermont Corn Maze

Dennis Wegewijs / Shutterstock

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

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

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

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

Snacks are available to keep you refreshed.

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

The Great Vermont Corn Maze isn’t easy.

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

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

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

44. Bellows Falls Petroglyphs

Bellows Falls Petroglyphs

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

45. Lake Willoughby

NEKVT / Shutterstock

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

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

What makes it so special?

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

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

The surrounding scenery is equally gorgeous.

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

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

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

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

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

Address: Westmore, VT, United States

46. Rock of Ages

ChristineMinato / Shutterstock

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Take advantage while you can.

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

47. Wilson Castle

Jay Parker / flickr

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

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

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

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

Did we mention that it’s bright orange?

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

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

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

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

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

48. Snow Farm Vineyard and Winery

Snow Farm Vineyard & Winery

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Start Planning Your Trip To Vermont

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

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

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

Happy travels.

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Things to Do

Discover things to do in vermont.

There are so many things to see and do in Vermont. Your days can be as full or unplanned as you like, from getting out there among mountains and valleys to dipping into historic downtowns to sample the arts and food scene. Let curiosity, wonder, and well-being be your guide.

Get Out There

While it’s easy to simply take in the scenery, Vermont’s outdoors beckons you to immerse yourself. Vermont is 70% forested, and much of that land is open to the public. Nature leads the way through the Green Mountains, whether through powdery snow, lush green forest, or the blazing colors of fall foliage. Whatever the season, outdoor recreation is accessible in many forms from paved recreation paths to adaptive guide services.

Between Vermont’s mountains and rolling hills are fertile valleys that support many dairy farmers, vegetable and fruit growers, and diversified agricultural operators. Vermont has long been a leader in championing local food and boasts breweries consistently ranked among the best in the world, award-winning artisan cheese-makers, and nationally recognized farm-to-table restaurants. Wherever you travel in Vermont, a wide selection of fresh, local food will be a staple of your vacation as you savor the true taste of the Green Mountain State.

The State is the Art

Arts & Culture

Scenic drives over mountain passes and into historic villages connect museums, artisan shops, and country stores, with plenty to discover along the way. Outdoor sculpture parks and public art adorn the landscape alongside classic covered bridges. Live music fills the air at waterfront concerts, echoing through downtown streets and village greens. Natural beauty sets the stage for an inspiring Vermont vacation.

The Best Things to Do in Vermont

TRIP IDEAS & ITINERARIES

Thoughtfully curated itineraries and trip ideas offer inspiration as you embark on an unforgettable journey through the scenic beauty of the Green Mountains. Vermont, with its charming towns, lush landscapes, and vibrant culture, offers a perfect escape for nature enthusiasts and adventure seekers alike. These guides point you to the best things to do in Vermont year-round, from the stunning fall foliage, the winter wonderland of snow-covered landscapes, or the blooming beauty of spring and summer.

Mark Your Calendar

Events in Vermont

Vermont beckons travelers with a vibrant tapestry of fairs, festivals, and concerts. Immerse yourself in the rich cultural heritage of the state at country fairs, showcasing local craftsmanship and traditional arts. Become part of the rhythm of Vermont at outdoor concerts with mountain peaks as the backdrop and at an array of festivals celebrating everything from music and dance to the bountiful harvests of the region.

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!

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14 Best Things to Do in Vermont

Written by Barbara Radcliffe Rogers Jul 28, 2022 We may earn a commission from affiliate links ( )

Tourists visiting New England are often surprised to find so many things to do in Vermont. Although it is known for its mountains, forests, and farms, Vermont is a lot more than that.

There are places to visit in Vermont for travelers who like gardens, antiques, history, shopping, and the arts. Idyllic country villages lie among its hills, and Burlington, its largest city, is known for its lively cultural scene.

Vermont's acres of wilderness, its mountains, lakes, and rural landscapes make the state a paradise for outdoor and nature enthusiasts . Opportunities for fishing, kayaking, canoeing, hiking, climbing, skiing, snowmobiling, birding, bicycling, camping, and other outdoor pursuits are at every turn in the winding country roads.

You'll find plenty of ideas for places to go in this handy list of the best things to do in Vermont.

1. Climb, Drive, or Ride to the Summit of Mt. Mansfield

2. take a cruise on lake champlain, 3. spend a day in manchester, 4. a family winter ski getaway, 5. tour a historic mansion, 6. take a hike, 7. browse the art galleries in woodstock, 8. taste vermont maple syrup, 9. kayak on a quiet lake, 10. photograph covered bridges, 11. stop at a farmers market, 12. watch the sunset over lake champlain, 13. explore the boulders at smugglers' notch, 14. visit a farm, map of things to do in vermont.

Stand at the top of Vermont, with 360-degree views of the Green Mountains, Lake Champlain, and the Adirondacks. At 4,395 feet in altitude, this is Vermont's highest mountain , but one of the easiest to ascend.

Choose from the 4.5-mile toll road that climbs in switchbacks to within 500 feet of the summit, or ride the gondola from the base of the ski area.

You can also climb Mt. Mansfield on the Long Trail , which crosses Mountain Rd. (Route 108) at the base of Smugglers' Notch. The trail climbs about 2.3 miles to reach the ridgeline. There are several other trails to the top of the ridge, which offer more than two miles of hiking above tree line. This is one of only two places in Vermont where rare arctic-alpine tundra plants grow.

The 120-mile-long Lake Champlain separates Vermont from New York and provides a popular playground for both states. The best way to see the lake and get a sense of its size and history is on a cruise.

Spirit of Ethan Allen III sails from downtown Burlington for sightseeing cruises, as well as lunch and dinner cruises on the lake. Narration includes pointing out landmarks and background on the lake's role in the Revolution and War of 1812. You'll also hear about the lake's 20-foot sea serpent, called Champ, which has reportedly been spotted from the ship.

Sailing cruises also begin in Burlington, aboard the 12-passenger Friend Ship and the six-passenger Wild Rose.

Official site: https://soea.com/cruise/

Manchester has a split personality, with its business district in Manchester Center and its historic center in Manchester Village, a mile to the south along Vermont Route 7-A.

Manchester Center is known for outlet shopping, and Manchester Village is a historic ensemble clustered around the columned façade of The Equinox, Golf Resort & Spa .

Forming a backdrop to the village is Mount Equinox, which you can climb for a 360-degree panorama, or you can drive to the summit on the Mount Equinox Skyline Drive .

Fly fishing enthusiasts will want to stop at Orvis and at the neighboring American Museum of Fly Fishing .

Robert Todd Lincoln, son of the president, built his summer home in Manchester, as did many other wealthy city people in the late 1800s. Hildene is restored and still furnished with family pieces; in June thousands of peonies bloom in the formal gardens.

Before leaving Manchester, stop to admire the sculptures on the grounds of the Southern Vermont Arts Center.

Read More: Best Things to Do in Manchester, VT

As soon as snow flies, Vermont is all about skiing and winter sports. Ski resorts and local ski hills are all over the state, several of them especially suited to family ski vacations. These offer convenient slope-side or base lodging, learning programs for all ages, child-care, and plenty of things to do for non-skiing family members.

Okemo Mountain Resort , in south-central Vermont, is known for its on- and off-slope facilities, family programs, and the full-service hotel at the base of the lifts. Skiers love the 669 acres of beautifully groomed trails and challenging glades; boarders love the East's longest superpipe, and kids love the Timber Ripper Mountain Coaster. For non-skiers there's a covered ice-skating rink, a spa, indoor and outdoor pools, a tubing hill, and fine dining.

Farther north, Stowe was one of the country's earliest ski resort towns , with slopes and trails on Mt. Mansfield and Spruce Peak. Handy for families, hotels and services are right at the base and on the mountain, and Kids Adventure Zones have gentle slopes and freestyle terrain that was purpose-built for learning. Miles of cross-country and snowshoe trails lead into the village, and you can take dogsled tours, sleigh rides, and snowmobile tours.

Okemo Mountain Resort

• https://www.okemo.com
• https://www.stowe.com

Read More: Best Things to Do in Vermont in Winter

Wealthy city families often chose the green hills of Vermont for their summer homes and many of these estates still exist today, some as historic sites open to visitors. The Georgian Revival Hildene , in Manchester, was the summer estate of Abraham Lincoln's son, Robert Todd Lincoln, head of the Pullman Company.

The Marsh-Billings-Rockefeller Mansion in Woodstock was built in 1805, but remodeled in 1869 and again in 1884, each time in the currently popular style. The interior demonstrates the height of Victorian decorative art, with Tiffany stained-glass windows and embossed wallpapers. The house exhibits the Rockefellers' collection of Hudson River School paintings.

In Bennington, the Park-McCullough Historic Governor's Mansion is among New England's best examples of Victorian architecture and interior. Meticulously preserved, the 35-room mansion is in the Second Empire style of the 1860s, with the construction details and artistic features typical of fine homes of the period. It is furnished in fine antiques. All three mansions have outstanding gardens.

• www.hildene.org

Park-McCullough Historic Governor's Mansion

• www.parkmccullough.org

The possibilities for hiking in Vermont are almost endless, from short trails to waterfalls to the famous Long Trail that follows the Green Mountains from the Canadian border to the Massachusetts state line.

If that's not enough, the Appalachian Trail crosses Vermont on its way from Maine to Georgia.

If you don't want to take on Mt. Mansfield, Camel's Hump, or another of the state's tallest peaks, pick up a copy of the Green Mountain Club's Day Hiker's Guide to Vermont to find trails in places like Groton State Forest or the Lake Dunbar/Moosalamoo area near Middlebury.

State parks and town forests are good places to look for less demanding trails, often surrounding lakes. The Merck Forest and Farmland Center in Rupert includes 28 miles of hiking trails across its 2,800 acres, which includes a small mountain.

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

More than a half dozen art galleries and a craft co-operative display sell the works of local and other artists amid the smart shops and boutiques in downtown Woodstock. It's easy to see why this Vermont small town inspires artists, with its tree-lined streets of historic homes and attractive village green. There's even a covered bridge crossing the river in the center of town.

Even if you're not in the market for a painting or original print, the galleries welcome browsers, and you'll come away with an appreciation for the talents of artists who have been drawn to the town.

From mid-February until early April, you may see strange cords tying the trees together along Vermont's roadsides. Those are the modern replacements for the traditional galvanized maple sap buckets that you will also see on roadside trees. Although not as picturesque, the tubing has relieved sugarbush owners from hours and hours of back-breaking work.

The sight of those tubes and buckets is the sign that it's the season to look for a sugarhouse. Inside you'll enter a world of sweet steam emerging from pans of bubbling sap. Many sugarhouses welcome visitors to watch the process, and most give samples in little paper cups. You can buy syrup here, and often other maple treats as well.

If you're traveling in Vermont outside of sugaring season, you can learn all about the process and taste the results at the year-round Morse Farm Maple Sugarworks in Montpelier, an 8 th -generation family-owned farm.

With more than 800 lakes in Vermont to choose from, finding a place to put in a kayak or canoe is easy. But for quiet waters without the wakes and noise of powerboats to disturb your paddling or the wildlife, look to smaller lakes.

You'll find several of these quiet lakes in state parks, many of which also offer kayak rentals. In southern Vermont, both Emerald Lake in Dorset (near Manchester) and Lowell Lake in Londonderry are in state parks, although you'll need to get to Lowell Lake early on weekends because parking is limited.

Near Middlebury, Lake Dunmore is long and narrow, bordered by Branbury State Park , where you can rent canoes and kayaks. Its shape means there's lots of space and shorelines to explore, so you're sure to find a quiet place to paddle even though it's a large lake.

Not far from Stowe, Lake Elmore is also in a state park with boat rentals.

Official site: https://vtstateparks-visit.com

One of the favorite things to do for tourists in New England is photographing the covered bridges that span its rivers and streams. Vermont has more than 100, the most of any state in New England, and more covered bridges per square mile than any other state.

Built by hand and hauled into place by oxen, covered bridges have survived floods, ice jams, hurricanes, and more than a century of traffic.

Vermont's covered bridges are all over the state, but some towns have especially high concentrations of them, so you can capture shots of several within a few miles. Northfield and Montgomery , in the far north, each have six, while Lyndon, near St. Johnsbury , has four.

Vermont is known for its small farms and agriculture, so it's not surprising that farmers markets are a common sight. Some, like Brattleboro's and Montpelier's , began as far back as the 1970s and have dozens of vendors; some only a few. Among the largest and longest running are in Burlington, Norwich, West River, Dorset, and Rutland .

More than a place to buy fresh-picked produce from local farmers, these also feature fresh-baked breads and pastries, honey and preserves, farm cheeses, prepared foods, and the work of craftspeople. Most are on weekends and double as a social event and meeting place, often with live music and entertainment.

You may be shopping next to some of Vermont's best-known chefs, who rely on these markets for their farm-to-table menus.

Burlington's eight miles of shoreline on Lake Champlain is lined by parks, with a bike path extending its entire length. These west-facing parks offer the best views of the lake's spectacular sunsets. As the sun drops behind the Adirondack mountains on the opposite side and the sky turns to shades of orange, the entire scene becomes a double image, reflected in the water.

Picnic tables and grassy parks invite a sunset picnic, or you can view the sunset from a kayak on the lake, or on a sunset cruise on the Spirit of Ethan Allen III.

Mountain Road climbs out of Stowe onto the shoulder of Mount Mansfield, continuing upward to Smugglers' Notch. This pass between Mt. Mansfield and Spruce Peak is so narrow and strewn with giant boulders that the road is closed in winter – the snowplows are too big to get through it.

The road is open the rest of the year, when you can park and walk among these towering rocks that the glaciers tore from the ledges overhead. Subsequent movement of the glaciers ground the slabs of stone into their current rounded shapes.

You can see the caves under the boulders where smugglers once sheltered; signs describe the geology and history.

Vermont's agricultural landscape of green pastures and fields of corn dotted with farmhouses, barns, and silos is an integral ingredient of its mystique. But all this is more than postcard views; it is an important part of its rural economy and culture.

As you travel, you can learn about and experience some of this by visiting historic 19th-century "gentleman's farms" and working farms owned by families that are preserving this rural heritage today. Examples of the former are Shelburne Farms in Shelburne and Billings Farm in Woodstock, both of which are museums showcasing sustainable agriculture practices.

For an inside look at the realities of family farming today, visit North Meadow Farm in Manchester, which raises grass-fed cows for the various cheeses sold at the farm store. You can visit goats, alpacas, sheep, cows, and other farm animals.

Or spend a few days with your family at Liberty Hill Farm in Rochester, Vermont's first Green Agritourism farm . A stay includes home-cooked farm-fresh meals, a chance to take part in farm activities (very popular with children), and access to the farmlands for walks and cross-country skiing.

You can download a map of the Vermont Cheese Trail to visit dairy farms that make cheese.

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The Top 14 Destinations in Vermont

In Vermont, even the most prominent cities feel like small towns, and you're never far from the things that give the state its character: dairy farms, mountains, covered bridges, craft breweries , maple sugarhouses, and apple orchards. Scroll around a map of Vermont, and you'll be hard-pressed to find a bad destination. This is the second safest state in the U.S. (after Maine), and a place where the wide-open outdoors beckons in every season. So don't just see one of these top Vermont destinations—plan to visit a few during your trip to the Green Mountain State.

Sitting on the shores of Lake Champlain, Vermont's largest city almost feels more like a resort town than anything else. Start your trip by biking along the waterfront, embarking on a boat tour of the lake, or hitting up the Lake Champlain Islands. Then, check out the scene at Church Street Marketplace , where 150 retailers and restaurants provide goods, grub, and lively entertainment.

Energized by its college students, Burlington is also the first American city to run entirely on renewable energy, and you'll see signs of the city's green leadership in everything from farm ingredient-driven menus to Hotel Vermont's green roof. Spend a day at Shelburne Farms , just 7 miles south of downtown, and discover all this 1,400-acre working farm is doing to promote a sustainable future.

As pretty a town as you'll find in Vermont, Woodstock is the perfect destination for lovers of architecture and the arts. It also just happens to be one of the best places to learn about the state's agrarian history and role in the origins of environmentalism. Must-visit attractions include Billings Farm & Museum and the Marsh-Billings-Rockefeller National Historical Park , where you can tour the former home of Laurance and Mary Rockefeller and George Perkins Marsh: the father of the environmental movement.

Don't miss your chance to venture south to Reading to snap your own pictures of New England's most photographed farm . Or, head east to Quechee to hike along Quechee Gorge, see birds of prey at VINS Nature Center , and dine and shop at Simon Pearce Restaurant and Mill .

Don Land / Getty Images

Characterized by its white steepled church and the imposing silhouette of Mount Mansfield (Vermont's highest peak), the village of Stowe has captured many travel guide covers and calendar pages. The town is Vermont's top destination for elite skiers in the winter, though the skiing and riding remains remarkably good into the spring. In the summer and fall, this is a hiker's paradise, while leaf peepers won't want to miss the stunning drive from Stowe to Cambridge through Smugglers' Notch. For those looking for a spa getaway, you'll love all of the amenities provided by resorts like Topnotch , known for its Tennis Academy, and Stoweflake , famous for its Aqua Solarium and Spa.

Centrally located, Manchester's gracious historic inns like The Equinox make it Vermont's top spot for romantic getaways. But there's more to Manchester than maple-infused spa treatments, fireside fine dining, and designer outlet shopping. Home to the American Museum of Fly Fishing and the Orvis flagship store and fly-fishing school , this is your place to hone your tying and casting skills, or even to experience the zen-like calm of the sport for the first time. While in Manchester, you'll also want to tour the Hildene estate , the former residence of Abraham Lincoln's son, Robert Todd Lincoln.

Killington is synonymous with skiing; in fact, the winter sports season here lasts more than half the year. But if you've only visited Vermont's largest ski resort during wintertime, you've missed this mountain town's summertime tranquility and autumn glory. Make this your destination for off-season thrills like downhill mountain biking and fall foliage gondola rides . Golf, kayak, fish, or hike a stretch of the Appalachian Trail before enjoying Killington's restaurants without the après-ski crowds. In the fall, you won't have to venture far to find pick-your-own apple orchards, pumpkin patches, and fresh beer at Long Trail Brewing Company 's riverside, German-style pub.

Situated in the Green Mountain State's southwest corner, Bennington is the perfect day-trip distance from Boston, New York City, Albany, or Hartford. It's known for quintessential New England attractions, including a collection of five historic covered bridges. While you're here, you'll want to see Grandma Moses' paintings at the Bennington Museum before visiting New England poet Robert Frost's grave at the Old First Church next door. Ascend Vermont's tallest structure, the Bennington Battle Monument , via elevator for views of Vermont, New York, and Massachusetts; go at the height of fall for an especially dazzling panorama.

©  Kim Knox Beckius

While Waterbury may not have quite the same name recognition as some other Vermont cities and towns, you likely know its number one attraction: Ben & Jerry's ice cream factory tours ! Stay a while, though—maybe even in one of New England's coolest treehouses —and you'll quickly discover there's an abundance of fun to be found here. Watch apples turn into adult beverages at Cold Hollow Cider Mill , observe artisans at work at Ziemke Glassblowing Studio , and climb Camel's Hump (one of Vermont's top hikes ) for incredible views.

Smallest of all the U.S. capital cities American kids have to memorize during their elementary school years, Montpelier offers visitors a central home base from which to sightsee, ski, and collect all of Vermont's quintessential experiences. Without leaving this tiny city, you can eat breakfast topped with Vermont maple syrup at any time of the day; support independent retailers like Bear Pond Books , Woodbury Mountain Toys, and The Quirky Pet ; sip Vermont-made wine; and go for a hike at North Branch Nature Center.

Brattleboro

This vibrant small city in southeastern Vermont, just across the Connecticut River from New Hampshire, has its own distinct character. Where else will you find art and antiques galleries, a food co-op, vintage boutiques, two bookstores, and a circus arts school all in the heart of a throwback downtown? You can even rent a kayak or canoe from Vermont Canoe Touring Center and paddle right through downtown—a great way to stimulate your appetite before visiting one of Brattleboro's eclectic restaurants . Be sure to head to the city's outskirts to visit the Retreat Farm and the Grafton Village Cheese Co. factory , located right next to each other.

Courtesy of Okemo Mountain Resort

Vermont's scenic Route 100 winds through Ludlow, and many skiers and snowboarders are content to land at Okemo Mountain Resort . All of the lodging that's here for winter visitors can become your affordable home base in the summer or fall, when Route 100 is your byway to blissful experiences like shopping at the beloved Vermont Country Store in Weston. Or, poke around in Plymouth , the remarkably preserved village where Calvin Coolidge, the 30th president the U.S., was born and sworn in. You can even see cheese being made the traditional way at Plymouth Artisan Cheese .

St. Johnsbury

Denis Tangney Jr / Getty Images

The town of St. Johnsbury is the gateway to Vermont's bucolic and remote Northeast Kingdom, but there are more reasons to make your way to this outpost than most travelers realize. Love art? The St. Johnsbury Athenaeum is filled with masterpieces, including Albert Bierstadt's enormous canvas, "Domes of the Yosemite." Into science? The Fairbanks Museum & Planetarium has fascinating collections. Obsessed with dogs? Stephen Huneck's one-of-a-kind Dog Chapel is one of New England's best free attractions , and your furry companion will adore it, too. Of course, there's plentiful recreation nearby, from skiing at Burke Mountain to biking the Kingdom Trails .

Located 5 miles south of the Canadian border, it goes without saying that winters in Jay are cold, and Jay Peak skiers and other snow lovers are treated to an average annual dump of 359 inches of the white stuff. Ever since the mountain resort added an indoor water park to its offerings, though, it's built up an off-season clientele and has become a favorite among families. Summer and fall visitors can also golf, hike, fish, mountain bike, birdwatch, and explore the scenic and peaceful Northeast Kingdom.

traveler1116/Getty Images

The Vermont Republic, an independent country from 1777 until 1791, was birthed in Windsor on Vermont's eastern border. Linked to Cornish, NH by the world's longest two-span covered bridge, it's an ideal destination for a two-state vacation. In Windsor, you'll be surprisingly fascinated by the American Precision Museum , enthralled by the hang gliders you can observe when driving or hiking to the summit in Mount Ascutney State Park , and well-satiated at the indoor-outdoor Harpoon Brewery Taproom and Beer Garden .

Head to Cornish to visit one of the most under-appreciated national parks, Saint-Gaudens National Historical Park, which showcases the work of one of America's foremost sculptors. In the summer, when Opera North is in residence at Blow-Me-Down Farm, open-air performances mesmerize all ages.

Vermont's oldest and smallest city is 2.5 square miles of worthwhile experiences. Full of cultural activities to partake in, it's best known for its active library and historic opera house . Shops and restaurants are clustered along the city's picturesque Main Street, though do plan a picnic with a view of the Otter Creek waterfalls in Vergennes Falls Park. On Lake Champlain, away from the heart of the city, you'll find dog-friendly lodging and nostalgic hospitality at Basin Harbor . Or, vacation on the cheap by camping lakeside in Button Bay State Park .

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• 20 Must Visit Attractions In...

Must-Visit Attractions in Vermont

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

Did you know – Culture Trip now does bookable, small-group trips? Pick from authentic, immersive Epic Trips , compact and action-packed Mini Trips and sparkling, expansive Sailing Trips .

Covered Bridges

If covered bridges are on your list of must-sees then you could do no better than those in Vermont’s Bennington County, where every stream crossing seems to be under wooden eaves. Most are in the state’s southeastern corner, including the 88-foot-long Silk Road Bridge, which spans the Walloomsac River and dates from 1840.

Their ubiquitous presence in gas station walk-ins and bodega freezers may make you think Ben & Jerry’s has always been around, but this iconic ice cream maker started in Vermont in 1978. The tour tells the story of how the founders met, conceived their dream and built their ice cream empire. Samples of whatever the factory is making at that moment are available, as are fresh cones. Afterwards you can tour the flavor graveyard, where retired concoctions are put to rest.

Billings Farm & Museum and Marsh-Billings-Rockefeller National Historical Park

It’s easy to sing the praises of Vermont’s dairy and Billings Farm is a living reminder of how it got there. A practicing commercial cow operation, the farm is fun for kids, while the nearby national park offers scenic hiking and cross-country skiing trails through the state’s backwoods for adults.

Cabot Creamery

Speaking of dairy pedigrees, Vermont’s Cabot Creamery—in operation since the close of the First World War—has been a household name in the world of cheese for generations. Although the creamery tours are no longer being offered, you can still sample scores of cheeses, sour cream, and dips, from store-shelf classics to hard-to-find, aged cheddars at the visitors’ center.

President Calvin Coolidge State Historic Site

The Coolidge Homestead pays homage to the lifelong home of America’s 30th president, who took the oath of office in August 1923. Sworn in as commander in chief in the light of a kerosene lamp just hours after President Harding’s death, Coolidge was famed for his taciturn manner (nicknamed “Silent Cal”) and thriftiness, symbolizing stability during the social upheaval of the Roaring Twenties. Today you can visit his boyhood home and the estate’s buildings, considered traditional even for the times.

VINS Nature Center and Quechee Gorge

At 165 feet deep, Vermont’s glacier-carved “Little Grand Canyon” draws hundreds of thousands of visitors every year to take in the breathtaking views. Quechee Gorge—a narrowing of the Ottauquechee River—once created employment for hundreds of wool-mill workers, and today offers hiking, camping, and fishing opportunities.

Shelburne Museum

More complex than a single museum, Shelburne hosts some of the country’s most diverse examples of paintings, folk arts, quilts, and textiles dedicated to eclectic Americana. From glass canes to carriages and Impressionist paintings, there are more than 150,000 works spanning 39 buildings at the museum—as much a display of art as a testament to Vermont’s natural beauty and cultural history.

Rock of Ages

One of the world’s largest quarries, Rock of Ages put Vermont on the map as the premiere source for granite. The size of the quarry is hard to grasp: though exposed rock extends for hundreds of feet above the turquoise waters, the shafts plummet still some 600 feet below. Still operated, you can see the quarry and take a tour of the granite plant, where huge chunks of stone are moved, hewed, cut, polished, and engraved for gravestones.

Bennington Battle Monument

Built to commemorate the 1777 Battle of Bennington —considered the turning point of the Revolutionary War—the monument is a 306-foot stone obelisk and also the tallest structure in Vermont. While the actual battle may have occurred some 10 miles away in New York (the stone comes from New York too), don’t let history spoil the views from the observation level at 200-feet, reached by elevator.

Hildene: The Lincoln Family Home

The Lincoln Family home may have only been the summer retreat for Todd (the president’s only offspring to survive childhood) and Mary to escape the heat of Washington D.C., but it’s no less stunning for that. The mansion is furnished with the family’s furniture, containing artifacts from Todd and his father. Outside the building, visitors can stroll the stately gardens, which overlook the Battenkill Valley, or walk through hundreds of acres of meadows and wetlands.

Woodstock Inn

Started as a tavern in 1793, today’s Woodstock Inn was one of the first buildings in the town and remains one of its stateliest. The building’s classic design and elegant historical preservation give it a timeless feel, perfect inspiration for exploring the town’s charming shops and restaurants. Room rates vary whether the suite comes with amenities like fireplace (perfect for banishing the chill after skiing the nearby slopes), and the inn has a restaurant and on-site spa.

University of Vermont Morgan Horse Farm

Established in 1878, this working horse farm gave the world Morgan horses, one of the first breeds exclusively developed in the U.S. With the vast majority of Morgan horses owing their lineage to this 215-acre ranch located just outside Middlebury, the farm is open to the public and is a must-visit for horse-lovers looking to experience living history.

Tallest Filing Cabinet on Earth

This 38-drawer monument to organization may be one of several such structures claiming to be the world’s tallest, but located just outside funky Burlington, it’s a must-see for fans of odd attractions. Built in 2002 by a local artist, each drawer in the structure represents the number of years of paperwork that the artist gathered while designing it. The piece is a commentary on the bureaucratic mess associated with a 50-plus year delay to a roadway meant to link downtown Burlington with the interstate.

Mount Mansfield

A trip to the Green Mountain State without visiting the eponymous tectonic features would be incomplete, so trek to Mount Mansfield , Vermont’s tallest. In addition to hiking, there’s great views of Lake Champlain and New York’s Adirondacks, alpine ecosystems and great skiing from a number of resorts.

Also known as the Rudyard Kipling House—the same man who wrote The Jungle Book— Naulahka is a shingle-roof, three-story house that’s been converted into a vacation rental with room for eight. Kipling in fact wrote The Jungle Book in his library here, and the house is named after a precious Indian jewel, which was the source of inspiration for another one of his works. After a falling out with his neighbor, Kipling left in 1896, and the home was eventually sold to a preservation trust.

Lake Champlain

Lake islands, shoreline, sunsets, sailing, camping, fishing and beaches. For generations Vermont has lived on the shores of its largest lake, which stretches from New York to the west and north to Quebec. Cyclists from Burlington stride headlong along a disused rail corridor above its waters, the sixth largest in the nation, while regular ferries from Burlington and other points offer hours of fresh air.

Vermont State House

Like the rest of Vermont, this elegant Greek Revival structure in Montpelier, home to the state’s lawmakers, seems to suddenly pop from the mountainous woods surrounding it. Vermont’s State House , the third such building on the same site, was built in the late 1850s and is one of the nation’s oldest and best-preserved capitol buildings. You can walk around yourself or take seasonal guided tours offered daily except Sunday. Highlights include period portraits, stained glass bearing the state’s coat of arms, and original furnishings, still in use.

Church Street in Burlington

No trip to Vermont is incomplete without a stay in Burlington, its biggest (but not capital) city. With a well-deserved reputation as the epicenter for the offbeat and independent, Burlington is an artistic nerve center for the state and entire northeast. Walking around pretty Church Street shows that funky feeling in full force, from Vermont’s farm-to-table restaurants to its craft beer concoctions and artisans selling their wares.

Everything Robert Frost

Perhaps America’s most famous poet, at the height of his celebrity Robert Frost lived in Vermont, calling the Green Mountain state home for four decades. Much of his verse was written while Frost lived in a log cabin on a 150-acre farm in Ripton, where visitors today can tour the National Historic Landmark. Elsewhere in Shaftsbury, Bennington College owns the Robert Frost Stone House , a museum dedicated to the home where Frost won the first of his four Pulitzer Prizes. And Frost is buried in the cemetery at the Old First Church in Bennington, where his tombstone reads, “I had a lover’s quarrel with the world.”

The Alchemist

No visit to Vermont would be incomplete without a stop to sample its legendary brews, and no brewer enjoys as much fame perhaps anywhere in the country as the Alchemist . Inexplicable to the uninitiated, this mecca to suds has inspired a fervent following, and the brewery’s signature beer, Heady Topper, is considered perhaps the best example of an IPA in the world and alone draws thousands of visitors every year for a can, only sold in-state.

Since you are here, we would like to share our vision for the future of travel - and the direction Culture Trip is moving in.

Culture Trip launched in 2011 with a simple yet passionate mission: to inspire people to go beyond their boundaries and experience what makes a place, its people and its culture special and meaningful — and this is still in our DNA today. We are proud that, for more than a decade, millions like you have trusted our award-winning recommendations by people who deeply understand what makes certain places and communities so special.

Increasingly we believe the world needs more meaningful, real-life connections between curious travellers keen to explore the world in a more responsible way. That is why we have intensively curated a collection of premium small-group trips as an invitation to meet and connect with new, like-minded people for once-in-a-lifetime experiences in three categories: Culture Trips, Rail Trips and Private Trips. Our Trips are suitable for both solo travelers, couples and friends who want to explore the world together.

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• 8 Most Idyllic Small Towns in Vermont

Vermont , known as the Green Mountain State, is known for its forests, maple syrup production, and mountainous terrain, which includes the prominent Green Mountains. It is the second least populous state in the US and is prominent for its liberal politics and fall foliage, which attracts tourists from around the globe. Vermont has a strong dairy farming tradition and is a leader in the farm-to-table food movement. The state is dotted with idyllic small towns such as Woodstock and Shelburne.

With their covered bridges, charming town squares, and natural attractions, these eight idyllic Vermont towns are worth visiting.

Woodstock, Vermont , is in the Green Mountains of central Vermont. It was chartered in 1761 and developed rapidly due to its abundant water power, which facilitated various mills along the Ottauquechee River. Woodstock has a commitment to conservation and appreciation for heritage and natural beauty.

Marsh-Billings-Rockefeller National Historical Park is the only national park in America dedicated to telling the story of conservation history and the evolving nature of land stewardship in America. Visitors can explore the maintained grounds, forest, and formal gardens. Billings Farm & Museum is an operational dairy farm and a museum of Vermont's rural past. The farm has interactive exhibits, up-close encounters with Jersey cows, and 19th-century farm life activities. Sugarbush Farm is another family-owned farm. Visitors can tour the farm to learn about syrup production, cheese-making, and the sustainable practices that typify Vermont's agricultural tradition.

Stowe, Vermont, is also in the Green Mountains. Founded in 1763 and developing slowly into a community centered around agriculture and lumber, Stowe began to evolve into a tourist destination with the opening of the Mount Mansfield Toll Road in 1870 and the arrival of the railroad in 1897. These developments made the town accessible to visitors, and it quickly became renowned for its winter sports .

Stowe Mountain Resort is a skiing and snowboarding experience in the winter with state-of-the-art facilities and trails suited for all skill levels. In the summer, the resort transforms to offer attractions such as zip-lining, hiking, and gondola rides. Smugglers' Notch State Park, named after the smugglers who used the area's caves and thickets during the early 19th century, has dramatic landscapes and hiking trails that lead through dense forests and rocky terrains. The park is also famous for its narrow pass through the Green Mountains, lined with 1,000-foot cliffs. The Stowe Recreation Path is a 5.3-mile paved trail that is a safe and scenic route for walking, biking, and in-line skating. It winds through the town and alongside the West Branch of Little River.

Montpelier, the smallest state capital in the United States, is along the Winooski River . Montpelier was chartered in 1781 and established as the state capital in 1805, a status that has contributed to its cultural and political prominence. Montpelier's early development was influenced by the rise of the wool industry and later the granite industry, which shaped its economic landscape.

The Vermont State House, one of the oldest and best-preserved state capitols in America, has guided tours to see its architecture and art, including its restored legislative chambers and historic portraits. Hubbard Park, accessible from downtown Montpelier, is a green space that has miles of trails for hiking and cross-country skiing. Its observation tower has views of the capital city and the surrounding hills. The Vermont Historical Society Museum, near the State House, displays insightful exhibits on Vermont's history from pre-colonial times to the present. The museum is ideal for those looking to deepen their understanding of Vermont's social, cultural, and political development.

Shelburne is located along the shores of Lake Champlain . Established in 1763 and incorporated in 1787, Shelburne quickly became known for its agricultural productivity, benefiting from the fertile Champlain Valley soils and the moderating effects of the lake on the local climate. In the 19th and early 20th centuries, Shelburne's proximity to Burlington made it an attractive location for summer estates for the wealthy.

The Shelburne Museum, set on a landscaped 45-acre property, is one of the nation's finest, most diverse, and unconventional museums of art, design, and Americana. Over 39 structures host an impressive array of collections, including folk art, quilts, decorative arts, and a restored 220-foot steamboat. Shelburne Farms is a 1,400-acre working farm, forest, and National Historic Landmark focused on sustainable agriculture, natural resource management, and food systems. Visitors can tour the farm. Lastly, Shelburne Vineyard is an opportunity to sample some of Vermont’s finest wines. With a focus on sustainable viticulture, the vineyard offers tastings and tours that explain the process of wine production in a cold climate.

Middlebury, Vermont, was founded in 1761 and is set along Otter Creek, which powered the early mills that established Middlebury as a regional industrial center. It is perhaps best known as the home of Middlebury College, established in 1800, which is one of the oldest liberal arts colleges in the United States. The presence of the college has significantly shaped the cultural and intellectual life of the town.

The Middlebury College Museum of Art has a diverse collection of art that spans the globe and centuries, from ancient artifacts to contemporary works. The museum hosts various exhibitions and educational programs. The Robert Frost Interpretive Trail is a more contemplative experience, featuring a gentle walking path through the countryside that inspired many of Frost's poems. The trail is dotted with plaques of his poetry.

Dorset, Vermont , is in the Taconic Mountains and dates back to its establishment in 1761. It is reputed to be one of Vermont’s oldest towns and has a heritage tied to the early iron industry and later, to the marble quarries. Dorset marble was used in constructing historic landmarks such as the New York Public Library and the United States Supreme Court building.

The Dorset Theatre Festival attracts talent from across the country and has a summer season of productions that range from new plays to classic dramas, all staged in an intimate, historic playhouse. For those looking for outdoor activities, the Dorset Quarry is one of the oldest marble quarries in the US. It is now filled with water and serves as a swimming hole. Additionally, the Merck Forest and Farmland Center is an extensive educational and recreational facility spanning over 3,000 acres. It is for outdoor activities including hiking, horseback riding, and camping, as well as programs in sustainable agriculture and forestry.

Waitsfield, in the Mad River Valley, was settled in 1782 and incorporated in 1793. Waitsfield's development was influenced by its location along the Mad River, which provided water power for the mills. Over the years, Waitsfield has evolved from a primarily agrarian community to a popular tourist destination, particularly known for its ski resorts .

Mad River Glen is a skiing experience with the motto "Ski It If You Can," famous for its challenging terrain and dedication to preserving the classic New England ski tradition. The area is one of the last remaining ski resorts with a single chairlift. The Skinner Barn, originally built in 1891 and restored, is now a cultural spot that hosts weddings, theatrical productions, and community events. Its rustic setting makes it an ideal venue for local arts and entertainment. The Mad River Path is a network of trails that meanders through the valley, connecting the towns of Warren, Waitsfield, and Moretown. This path has excellent opportunities for walking and biking.

Bennington, located in southwestern Vermont, was founded in 1749 and is one of Vermont's earliest settlements. It became a significant player during the Revolutionary War , specifically noted for the Battle of Bennington in 1777. This battle is celebrated as a key victory that helped pave the way for the subsequent American triumph at Saratoga.

The Bennington Battle Monument is the tallest structure in Vermont and lets visitors climb to the top for panoramic views of the landscapes that stretch into neighboring states. This monument commemorates the Battle of Bennington. The Bennington Museum has an impressive collection of art and artifacts that focus on Southern Vermont, including the largest public collection of Grandma Moses paintings and memorabilia. Exhibits are both educational and engaging. Finally, the Bennington Center for the Arts is dedicated to promoting and supporting local arts, with galleries of traditional and contemporary art, a covered bridge museum, and an array of events and workshops.

Vermont's small towns have idyllic New England charm and natural beauty, making them irresistible destinations for those seeking tranquility and a rich historical atmosphere. Woodstock exemplifies this with its village green and heritage conservation, while Stowe has stunning mountain views and outdoor recreational activities that draw visitors year-round. Shelburne enchants with its world-class museum and vibrant agricultural practices, showing off Vermont's commitment to sustainability. Each of these eight towns provides a look into the state’s idyllic lifestyle, where history, culture, and natural beauty converge.

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