Vermont, located in the New England region of the United States, is a destination that offers visitors an array of activities to indulge in. The state is known for its natural beauty, historic charm, and outdoor recreation. Here are the top 21 things to do in Vermont:
Visit the Ben & Jerry’s Factory
Ben & Jerry’s Factory, located in Waterbury, Vermont, offers a guided tour of their ice cream factory, where visitors can learn about the history of the brand and how their delicious ice cream is made.
Go skiing or snowboarding
Vermont is home to some of the best ski resorts in the country, including Stowe, Killington, and Jay Peak. Visitors can enjoy skiing or snowboarding in the winter months while taking in the stunning views of the surrounding mountains.
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Stowe Mountain Resort
Stowe Mountain Resort is one of the most popular ski resorts in Vermont. It offers a variety of terrain for skiers of all levels and features stunning views of Mount Mansfield, Vermont’s highest peak.
Killington Ski Resort
Killington Ski Resort is the largest ski resort in the eastern United States. It features 155 trails and 22 lifts, making it a great destination for skiing or snowboarding enthusiasts.
Visit the Shelburne Museum
The Shelburne Museum is an art and history museum located in Shelburne, Vermont. The museum features a collection of Americana, including art, textiles, and historic buildings.
Take a drive on Route 100
Route 100 is a scenic highway that runs through the heart of Vermont. Visitors can enjoy the beautiful scenery and quaint towns along the way.
Visit Lake Champlain
Lake Champlain, located on the border of Vermont and New York, is a beautiful destination for outdoor recreation. Visitors can enjoy boating, fishing, and swimming in the lake.
Visit the Vermont Teddy Bear Factory
The Vermont Teddy Bear Factory, located in Shelburne, Vermont, offers a guided tour of their factory, where visitors can learn about the history of the company and how their teddy bears are made.
Explore the Green Mountains
The Green Mountains, which run through Vermont, offer visitors an array of outdoor activities, including hiking, mountain biking, and camping.
Visit the Vermont State House
The Vermont State House, located in Montpelier, Vermont, is the state’s capitol building. Visitors can take a guided tour of the building and learn about the history of Vermont’s government.
Visit the Church Street Marketplace
The Church Street Marketplace, located in Burlington, Vermont, is a pedestrian-only street that features a variety of shops, restaurants, and street performers.
Visit the ECHO Leahy Center for Lake Champlain
The ECHO Leahy Center for Lake Champlain, located in Burlington, Vermont, is a science museum that features exhibits on the ecology and history of Lake Champlain.
Visit the Vermont Historical Society Museum
The Vermont Historical Society Museum, located in Montpelier, Vermont, offers exhibits on the history of Vermont, including the state’s Native American, Colonial, and Revolutionary War eras.
Take a hot air balloon ride
Vermont offers visitors the opportunity to take a hot air balloon ride over the scenic countryside.
Visit the Sugarbush Farm
The Sugarbush Farm, located in Woodstock, Vermont, offers visitors a chance to learn about maple syrup production and sample some of Vermont’s finest cheeses.
Visit the Hildene Estate
The Hildene Estate, located in Manchester, Vermont, was the summer home of Robert Todd Lincoln, the son of President Abraham Lincoln. Visitors can tour the mansion and gardens and learn about the history of the Lincoln family.
Tour the mansion
The Hildene Estate mansion features 24 rooms and is filled with original Lincoln family furniture and artifacts. Visitors can take a guided tour of the mansion and learn about the family’s history.
Visit the gardens
The Hildene Estate also features stunning gardens, including the formal garden, the cutting garden, and the perennial garden. Visitors can take a self-guided tour of the gardens and enjoy the beautiful scenery.
Visit the Quechee Gorge
The Quechee Gorge, located in Quechee, Vermont, is a stunning natural attraction that features a 165-foot-deep gorge carved by the Ottauquechee River. Visitors can take a hike on the nearby trails or enjoy a picnic by the river.
Visit the Montshire Museum of Science
The Montshire Museum of Science, located in Norwich, Vermont, is a hands-on science museum that features exhibits on natural history, technology, and the environment.
Take a scenic drive on the Mount Equinox Skyline Drive
The Mount Equinox Skyline Drive, located in Manchester, Vermont, is a scenic drive that takes visitors to the summit of Mount Equinox, offering stunning views of the surrounding mountains.
Visit the Billings Farm and Museum
The Billings Farm and Museum, located in Woodstock, Vermont, is a working dairy farm that features exhibits on Vermont’s rural history and farm life.
Go apple picking
Vermont is known for its delicious apples, and visitors can enjoy picking their own at one of the many orchards throughout the state.
Visit the Fairbanks Museum and Planetarium
The Fairbanks Museum and Planetarium, located in St. Johnsbury, Vermont, is a natural history museum that features exhibits on Vermont’s flora and fauna, as well as a planetarium.
Visit the Green Mountain National Forest
The Green Mountain National Forest, located in southern Vermont, offers visitors an array of outdoor activities, including hiking, camping, and fishing.
Take a tour of the Bennington Battle Monument
The Bennington Battle Monument, located in Bennington, Vermont, is a 306-foot-tall monument commemorating the Battle of Bennington during the American Revolution. Visitors can take an elevator to the top for stunning views of the surrounding area.
Visit the Wilson Castle
The Wilson Castle, located in Proctor, Vermont, is a stunning example of Victorian architecture. Visitors can take a guided tour of the castle and learn about its history.
Go on a brewery tour
Vermont is home to many craft breweries, and visitors can enjoy tours and tastings at many of them, including the popular Magic Hat Brewing Company and the Long Trail Brewing Company.
Visit the Vermont Institute of Natural Science
The Vermont Institute of Natural Science, located in Quechee, Vermont, is a nature center that features exhibits on Vermont’s wildlife and ecology.
Take a dip in a natural swimming hole
Vermont is home to many natural swimming holes, including the popular Warren Falls and the Dorset Quarry. Visitors can take a refreshing dip in the cool water and enjoy the beautiful scenery.
Conclusion
Vermont is a destination that offers visitors an array of activities to indulge in. From the natural beauty of the Green Mountains to the historic sites and cultural attractions, there is something for everyone in Vermont. Whether you are interested in outdoor activities, history, or just taking in the scenery, this state has it all. Make sure to add these 21 best things to do in Vermont to your travel itinerary.
FAQs
- What is the best time of year to visit Vermont?
- Vermont is beautiful year-round, but the fall foliage season from late September to mid-October is a popular time to visit.
- Can I visit the Hildene Estate year-round?
- Yes, the Hildene Estate is open year-round, but hours may vary depending on the season.
- Are there any fees to visit the Green Mountain National Forest?
- There are no entrance fees to visit the Green Mountain National Forest, but some campgrounds and recreation areas may have fees.
- Can I swim in any lake or river in Vermont?
- While there are many lakes and rivers in Vermont that are safe for swimming, it is important to check for any posted warnings or closures before entering the water.
- Are there any guided tours of the Vermont State Capitol building?
- Yes, guided tours of the Vermont State Capitol building are available Monday through Friday.