Discovering the Best Places to Visit in Vermont

Nestled in the northeastern United States, Vermont is a gem known for its charming small towns, picturesque landscapes, vibrant fall foliage, and outdoor recreational opportunities. From the scenic beauty of the Green Mountains to the cultural allure of its quaint villages, Vermont offers a rich tapestry of experiences for visitors. Here's an in-depth guide to some of the best places to visit in Vermont.

1. Burlington

A Vibrant City on Lake Champlain

Burlington, Vermont's largest city, sits on the eastern shore of Lake Champlain and offers a blend of urban sophistication and natural beauty.

Key Attractions

Church Street Marketplace

A lively pedestrian-only street, Church Street Marketplace is the heart of Burlington's downtown. With a variety of shops, restaurants, and cafes, it's a great place for shopping, dining, and people-watching. The marketplace frequently hosts events and live performances, adding to its vibrant atmosphere.

Waterfront Park

Stretching along the shores of Lake Champlain, Waterfront Park is ideal for leisurely walks, picnics, and enjoying stunning sunsets over the lake. The park features a bike path, playgrounds, and seasonal boat tours, making it a popular spot for both locals and tourists.

Echo Leahy Center for Lake Champlain

An interactive science and nature museum, the Echo Leahy Center is perfect for families. It offers exhibits on the ecology, culture, and history of the Lake Champlain Basin, as well as an aquarium and a range of educational programs.

2. Stowe

The Ski Capital of the East

Stowe, located in northern Vermont, is renowned for its premier ski resorts and year-round outdoor activities.

Highlights

Stowe Mountain Resort

One of the top ski destinations in the eastern United States, Stowe Mountain Resort offers world-class skiing and snowboarding in the winter, as well as mountain biking, hiking, and golf in the warmer months. The resort's modern amenities and stunning scenery make it a favorite among outdoor enthusiasts.

Mount Mansfield

At 4,393 feet, Mount Mansfield is Vermont's highest peak. Hiking to the summit provides breathtaking views of the surrounding landscape, especially during the fall foliage season. The Long Trail, which runs the length of Vermont, passes over Mount Mansfield, offering various hiking options.

Stowe Village

A picturesque New England village, Stowe Village is home to charming shops, art galleries, and restaurants. The Stowe Recreation Path, a 5.3-mile paved trail, winds through the village and surrounding countryside, perfect for walking, biking, or cross-country skiing.

3. Montpelier

The Nation's Smallest State Capital

Montpelier, the capital of Vermont, may be small in size but is rich in history and culture.

Key Attractions

Vermont State House

One of the most beautiful state capitols in the country, the Vermont State House features a stunning gold dome and Greek Revival architecture. Visitors can take guided tours to learn about the state's history and government.

Hubbard Park

A 194-acre park located just north of downtown Montpelier, Hubbard Park offers a network of trails for hiking, cross-country skiing, and snowshoeing. The park also features a historic stone tower with panoramic views of the city and surrounding hills.

Vermont History Museum

Located in the Pavilion Building, the Vermont History Museum offers exhibits on the state's history, from its indigenous peoples to the present day. It's a great place to learn about Vermont's unique heritage and culture.

4. Woodstock

Quintessential New England Charm

Woodstock is often considered one of the most beautiful towns in America, with its historic buildings, covered bridges, and picturesque countryside.

Highlights

Billings Farm & Museum

A working dairy farm and living history museum, Billings Farm offers a glimpse into Vermont's agricultural heritage. Visitors can tour the farm, see exhibits on rural life, and participate in hands-on activities.

Marsh-Billings-Rockefeller National Historical Park

This national park preserves the legacy of conservationist George Perkins Marsh and the Rockefeller family. The park features miles of hiking trails, beautiful gardens, and the historic Marsh-Billings-Rockefeller Mansion.

Woodstock Village

With its charming shops, galleries, and restaurants, Woodstock Village is perfect for a leisurely stroll. The Middle Covered Bridge, located in the village, is one of Vermont's iconic covered bridges and a popular photo spot.

5. Lake Champlain Islands

A Serene Getaway

The Lake Champlain Islands, located in the northern part of the lake, offer a tranquil escape with beautiful scenery and outdoor activities.

Key Islands

South Hero

South Hero is known for its apple orchards, vineyards, and stunning lake views. Allenholm Farm and Snow Farm Vineyard are popular destinations for tasting local produce and wines.

Grand Isle

Grand Isle State Park is the perfect place for camping, swimming, and boating. The park features miles of shoreline, scenic picnic areas, and hiking trails.

North Hero

North Hero offers a peaceful retreat with charming bed-and-breakfasts, historic sites, and opportunities for fishing and kayaking. The North Hero House Inn & Restaurant is a historic inn that offers fine dining and lakeside accommodations.

6. Shelburne

Rich in History and Culture

Located just south of Burlington, Shelburne is home to several notable attractions that showcase Vermont's history and culture.

Highlights

Shelburne Museum

One of the most diverse and eclectic museums in the country, Shelburne Museum features an extensive collection of American folk art, decorative arts, and historic buildings. The museum's 45-acre campus includes 39 exhibit buildings, gardens, and a lighthouse.

Shelburne Farms

A working farm and education center, Shelburne Farms offers tours, farm-to-table dining, and hands-on activities. Visitors can explore the beautiful grounds, learn about sustainable farming practices, and sample local cheese and other products.

Vermont Teddy Bear Company

A fun and family-friendly destination, the Vermont Teddy Bear Company offers guided tours of its factory, where visitors can see how teddy bears are made and even create their own custom bears.

7. Manchester

A Blend of History and Luxury

Manchester, located in southern Vermont, is known for its historic sites, upscale shopping, and outdoor recreation.

Key Attractions

Hildene

The former summer home of Robert Todd Lincoln, Hildene is a stunning Georgian Revival mansion surrounded by beautiful gardens and walking trails. The estate offers tours, exhibits, and special events throughout the year.

Manchester Designer Outlets

For those who enjoy shopping, the Manchester Designer Outlets feature a variety of high-end brands and stores set in a charming village-like setting. It's the perfect place to find deals on designer clothing and accessories.

Equinox Mountain

The tallest peak in the Taconic Range, Equinox Mountain offers hiking trails with breathtaking views. The Equinox Preserve, located at the base of the mountain, features miles of trails through forests and wetlands.

8. Bennington

Rich in Revolutionary War History

Bennington, located in southwestern Vermont, is steeped in history and offers a variety of cultural and outdoor attractions.

Highlights

Bennington Battle Monument

This 306-foot-tall obelisk commemorates the Battle of Bennington, a pivotal Revolutionary War victory for the American forces. Visitors can take an elevator to the top for panoramic views of the surrounding area.

Old First Church

One of Vermont's oldest churches, Old First Church features a historic cemetery where poet Robert Frost is buried. The church's beautiful architecture and peaceful setting make it a must-visit.

Bennington Museum

The Bennington Museum showcases a diverse collection of art, history, and artifacts, including the largest public collection of paintings by folk artist Grandma Moses. The museum also features exhibits on the region's history and culture.

9. Brattleboro

A Cultural and Artistic Hub

Brattleboro, located in southeastern Vermont, is known for its vibrant arts scene, eclectic shops, and beautiful natural surroundings.

Key Attractions

Brattleboro Museum & Art Center

Housed in a historic train station, the Brattleboro Museum & Art Center features rotating exhibits of contemporary art, as well as educational programs and events. The museum is a focal point for the local arts community.

Retreat Farm

A historic farm and nonprofit organization, Retreat Farm offers educational programs, outdoor activities, and a chance to interact with farm animals. The farm's beautiful setting includes hiking trails, gardens, and scenic picnic areas.

Fort Dummer State Park

Located just outside of Brattleboro, Fort Dummer State Park offers camping, hiking, and picnicking in a serene forested setting. The park is named after the first permanent European settlement in Vermont, established in 1724.

10. Killington

A Year-Round Outdoor Playground

Killington, located in central Vermont, is famous for its ski resort and outdoor recreational opportunities.

Highlights

Killington Resort

One of the largest ski resorts in the eastern United States, Killington Resort offers a wide range of winter sports, including skiing, snowboarding, and snowshoeing. In the summer, the resort features mountain biking, hiking, and a scenic gondola ride to the summit of Killington Peak.

Thundering Brook Falls

A beautiful waterfall located on the Appalachian Trail, Thundering Brook Falls is easily accessible via a short boardwalk trail. The falls are particularly impressive during the spring thaw.

Green Mountain National Golf Course

Golf enthusiasts will enjoy the challenging and scenic Green Mountain National Golf Course, which offers stunning views of the surrounding mountains and forests.