Discover Vermont: A Treasure of Nature and Culture
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 the 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 of the state’s more than 800 lakes, pick ripe apples from the trees, or sample delicious maple syrup, Vermont is ready for adventure.
Everything feels accessible in Vermont, therefore it’s easy to put together an itinerary that incorporates various kinds of outdoor activities all in one day. Whether you’re visiting for Open Studio Weekend, when Vermont’s artists welcome you to their creative spaces, or prefer to follow the state’s beer or spirits trail, here’s a list of the best places to immerse yourself in the Vermont experience.
Church Street Marketplace, Burlington
At the heart of Burlington, Vermont’s largest city, is Church Street, a pedestrian mall lined with charming boutiques, superb restaurants, and, of course, the iconic Ben & Jerry’s. In summer, musicians and street performers delight visitors, while food cart vendors offer delicious local snacks. Explore this vibrant area as a launchpad for further adventures in the Queen City. Don’t miss out on the serene shores of Lake Champlain, which are just a few blocks away.
Montpelier
With just 7,500 residents, Montpelier is the US’s smallest state capital by population. The town’s focal point is the grand 1859 Vermont State House, characterized by its gold-dome Greek Revival architecture. Take time to explore the impressive art collection featuring decorative and fine art exhibits. Adjacent to this is the Vermont History Museum, where exhibits recount the early history of the state, highlighting notable figures such as Ethan Allen. Stroll through downtown Montpelier, filled with bakeries, restaurants, and shops, and ascend to Hubbard Park’s observation tower for stunning views of the capital.
Woodstock
Surrounded by rolling hills and stately horse farms, Woodstock is a town imbued with history. Established in 1786, it became a hub for commerce and art and was one of Vermont’s largest and wealthiest towns. Remnants of its golden era remain, including the renowned Woodstock Inn & Resort, which attracts urban residents seeking a high-end countryside getaway.
Visit the historic Norman Williams Public Library, established in 1880, or explore the Billings Farm & Museum, a functioning dairy farm that showcases the essence of rural life in Vermont.
The nearby Marsh-Billings-Rockefeller National Historical Park, Vermont’s first national park, invites hikers to explore scenic trails. Additionally, take a dip or cast a line in the Ottauquechee River, flowing through the center of town beneath three historic covered bridges.
Tunbridge
For most of the year, the three villages that comprise Tunbridge, Vermont, remain tranquil, with a few visitors admiring its five covered bridges. However, in mid-September, Tunbridge buzzes with activity during the famous Tunbridge World’s Fair, which has been a staple since 1867.
This lively event showcases modern and historical agricultural demonstrations, contests, and entertainment like arm wrestling and ox pulls. Guests can also enjoy a fantastic beer garden, various rides, and even a much-loved pig race that captures everyone’s attention.
Stowe
Located just off the slopes of Mount Mansfield, Vermont’s highest peak, Stowe is quintessentially New England, full of local commerce and surrounded by breathtaking landscapes, marked by the historic white spires of Community Church.
For the best nature trails, consider hopping on a mountain bike to explore Cady Hill before indulging in a fresh, farm-to-table lunch at a local market. Utilize Stowe’s riverside recreational path to reach various swimming holes. Notably, Stowe is renowned for exceptional skiing opportunities, offering both alpine and Nordic experiences. Even outside of ski season, Vermont’s Ski History Museum showcases the rich history of skiing through its extensive collection of gear and artifacts.
Consider taking a scenic drive along the Mt. Mansfield Toll Road or hiking the Long Trail to the summit of Mt. Mansfield for panoramic views of New England. Do not miss the chance to catch a performance by the Vermont Symphony Orchestra at Trapp Family Lodge, where the enchanting sunset combined with superb music will leave lasting memories.
Lake Willoughby, Northeast Kingdom
Stretching five miles long and reaching depths of up to 320ft, Lake Willoughby is a glacially formed lake recognized as a National Natural Landmark. Nestled between Mt. Pisgah and Mt. Hor in Vermont’s Northeast Kingdom, the lake’s breathtaking scenery provides a picturesque backdrop.
In the late 1800s, steamboats ferried visitors around the lake. Today, public beaches on both the north and south ends offer summer fun for swimmers and paddlers alike. Anglers often try their luck here, casting lines for lake and rainbow trout, landlocked Atlantic salmon, and native round whitefish.
Moreover, the lake is home to at least 100 bird species, including thrushes, warblers, hummingbirds, jays, finches, herons, and the rare peregrine falcon, which nests in the cliffs of Mt. Pisgah and Mt. Hor.
Smuggler’s Notch
Historically significant during the War of 1812 and prohibition, the winding, cliff-lined path between Underhill and Stowe served as a crucial supply route. It also played a role in the Underground Railroad. Today, a narrow road replaces the old path through Mt. Mansfield State Forest.
Travel this route and explore the boulder field atop the Notch, where smugglers once hid, and where rock climbers now ascend. Although the Notch closes in winter, it remains a hub for skiing, snowshoeing, sledding, and ice climbing enthusiasts.
Lake Champlain
Forming Vermont’s western border, Lake Champlain is the sixth-largest lake in the United States. Historically, it has served many roles—from a Revolutionary War battleground to a critical supplier in the War of 1812 and a vital part of the Underground Railroad. Legends of the mythical creature known as “champ” add to its mystique.
Measuring 125 miles long and nearly 15 miles wide, this freshwater lake becomes a bustling hub for motorboats, paddle boats, and sailboats during the summer. Visitors can launch boats from various marinas or beaches, with the option to journey north to Quebec via the Richelieu and St. Lawrence Rivers, or south to the Hudson River and Manhattan.
Catch a ferry to New York, including the historic Ticonderoga cable ferry (currently closed due to the COVID-19 pandemic; check their website for updates). Alternatively, spend time on one of the lake’s many public beaches.
Moreover, the Champlain Islands located north of Burlington offer a wonderful selection of wineries and fertile apple groves. Beneath the lake’s waters lie approximately 300 historic shipwrecks, which can be explored through diving or learned about at the Lake Champlain Maritime Museum. Lake Champlain has also been recognized as one of North America’s premier bass fishing lakes.
