Top Things to Do in Vermont
Vermont offers a quintessential New England escape defined by rolling green mountains, charming small towns, and seasonal splendor. Outdoor enthusiasts find endless opportunities for hiking the Long Trail, skiing at world-class resorts, and cycling through scenic valley roads. Food lovers explore a vibrant culinary scene anchored by artisanal cheese makers, maple syrup producers, and farm-to-table restaurants. History buffs discover character in covered bridges, historic village greens, and local craft museums. Visitors navigate the state to experience the quiet beauty of Lake Champlain or the fiery foliage of autumn. Each activity highlights the unique blend of rustic tradition and natural wonder that defines the Green Mountain State.
- 0Walk the village green in Woodstock
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Woodstock village green serves as the centerpiece of a town renowned for its preserved 19th-century architecture and quintessential New England charm. Visitors walk the perimeter to view historic homes and the iconic Norman Williams Public Library. The area hosts seasonal events and provides a peaceful setting for relaxing under mature shade trees. Boutique shops and local cafes sit just steps away from the green, making it an ideal starting point for exploring the rest of the village.
- 0Taste artisanal cheese at Shelburne Farms
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Shelburne Farms operates a historic working dairy farm on the shores of Lake Champlain. Visitors observe the cheesemaking process and sample award-winning farmhouse cheddar produced directly from the farm's Brown Swiss herd. The property features walking trails, a children's farmyard, and expansive landscapes designed by Frederick Law Olmsted. Guests learn about sustainable agriculture and land stewardship while enjoying views of the Adirondack Mountains.
- 0Kayak on Lake Champlain
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Lake Champlain offers expansive waters for paddling along the scenic border between Vermont and New York. Rent kayaks at local marinas or launch from public access points in Burlington and Shelburne to explore hidden coves and rocky shorelines. The calm morning waters provide ideal conditions for viewing the Adirondack Mountains and the Green Mountains simultaneously. Paddlers often encounter diverse bird species and occasional glimpses of historic shipwrecks visible through the clear lake depths.
- 0Explore the Church Street Marketplace
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The Church Street Marketplace serves as the vibrant pedestrian heart of downtown Burlington. This historic four-block outdoor mall features a diverse collection of local boutiques, national retailers, and street performers. Visitors enjoy year-round events, outdoor dining patios, and a lively atmosphere that captures the essence of Vermont's largest city. The area connects directly to the scenic waterfront of Lake Champlain, making it an ideal central hub for a day of shopping and exploration.
- 0Photograph the Sleepy Hollow Covered Bridge
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The Sleepy Hollow Covered Bridge stands as a historic landmark in Huntington, nestled within a picturesque valley. It features a classic wooden truss design that provides a perfect backdrop for landscape photography, especially during the peak autumn foliage season. Visitors access the site via a quiet country road that highlights the rural charm of the region. This spot offers a peaceful atmosphere for capturing the quintessential architecture of Vermont.
- 0Sample maple syrup at a sugarhouse
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Visit a local sugarhouse to witness the traditional process of boiling sap into golden maple syrup. Many producers offer guided tours that explain the tapping of maple trees and the evaporation methods used during the spring season. Guests taste various grades of syrup, ranging from delicate light amber to robust dark varieties. These locations often sell fresh maple candy, cream, and sugar to take home as authentic souvenirs.
- 0Drive through Smugglers' Notch
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This winding mountain pass features dramatic rock formations and narrow passages that cut through the heart of the Green Mountain range. Drivers navigate tight hairpin turns and steep grades that offer a thrilling and scenic route between Stowe and Jeffersonville. Massive boulders line the roadway, creating a unique tunnel-like atmosphere that feels particularly immersive during the autumn foliage season. Use caution when traveling in large vehicles, as the road narrows significantly in several sections. The route provides direct access to popular hiking trailheads and scenic overlooks along the way.
- 0Tour the Shelburne Museum
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The Shelburne Museum features an expansive collection of American folk art, artifacts, and historic buildings spread across 45 acres. Visitors explore 39 distinct structures, including a steamboat, a lighthouse, and a covered bridge, all relocated to the grounds to preserve Vermont history. The site showcases diverse exhibits ranging from 19th-century carriages and quilts to impressionist paintings. Walking paths connect the gardens and galleries, providing a comprehensive look at regional heritage and craftsmanship.
- 0Visit Ben & Jerry’s Factory
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The Ben & Jerry’s factory in Waterbury offers guided tours that showcase the ice cream production process from start to finish. Visitors observe the manufacturing floor from an elevated walkway and learn about the company history. The experience concludes with a tasting of signature flavors in the scoop shop. Outside, the flavor graveyard features headstones for retired ice cream creations.
- 0Ski at Killington Resort
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Killington Resort serves as the premier destination for alpine sports in the eastern United States. It features an extensive trail network spanning across seven distinct mountain peaks. The resort offers the longest ski season in the region due to its advanced snowmaking capabilities and high elevation. Visitors access a variety of terrain ranging from gentle beginner slopes to challenging mogul runs and glades.
- 0Hike the Long Trail
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The Long Trail spans the entire length of Vermont, stretching 273 miles from the Massachusetts border to the Canadian line. Hikers navigate rugged terrain that traverses the highest peaks of the Green Mountains, including Mount Mansfield and Camel's Hump. The path offers a variety of experiences ranging from short, accessible day hikes to challenging multi-day backpacking treks. Well-maintained shelters and campsites provide convenient resting points for those traversing the wilderness. This iconic trail serves as the primary artery for exploring the state's most pristine alpine forests and expansive ridge-line views.
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