Vermont, a state as renowned for its picturesque landscapes as for its unique culture, offers a blend of iconic New England imagery and contemporary attractions. From the classic vision of cows grazing in sunlit fields and ski slopes to the modern artisanal cheese scene following the Vermont Cheese Trail, Vermont is a state of contrasts.
While the traditional Vermont with its maple farms and covered bridges still thrives, a more dynamic side is evident in places like bustling Burlington and the ski town of Stowe. Here, visitors can enjoy a range of activities from skiing at Stowe Mountain Resort to exploring the arts at the Helen Day Art Center.
For a comprehensive guide to the state's top destinations, check out the top attractions and places to visit in Vermont.
1. Stowe
Stowe epitomizes Vermont's ski heritage and offers year-round attractions, from the Vermont Ski Museum to the scenic Stowe Recreation Path. Accommodations are plentiful, with options like Where to Stay in Stowe.
2. Church Street Marketplace
Burlington's Church Street Marketplace is a vibrant, car-free zone with shops, cafes, and public art, earning it recognition as one of America's Great Public Spaces. Nearby accommodations include the Hotel Vermont.
3. Hildene
Hildene, the Lincoln family estate in Manchester, showcases the grandeur of the early 20th century with its preserved furnishings and formal gardens. Visitors can stay at nearby historic B&Bs like The Inn at Ormsby Hill.
4. Mount Mansfield and Smugglers Notch
The drive through Smugglers' Notch reveals a landscape of glacial boulders and caves, while Mount Mansfield offers hiking and stunning views. The Topnotch Resort provides a luxurious base for exploration.
5. Burlington Bike Path and Waterfront Park
Burlington's bike path along Lake Champlain connects parks and attractions like the ECHO Lake Aquarium and Science Center, making it a prime spot for outdoor activities and enjoying the lake's famous sunsets.
6. Vermont's Year-Round Ski Resorts
Vermont's ski resorts, such as Okemo Mountain Resort and Killington Ski Resort, offer a variety of activities beyond skiing, including mountain coasters, rope courses, and scenic gondola rides.
7. Quechee Gorge
Quechee Gorge, carved by glaciers, offers stunning views from the bridge above and trails leading to the bottom. Nearby attractions include the Vermont Institute of Natural Sciences (VINS).
8. Bennington Battle Monument and Museum
The Bennington Battle Monument commemorates a pivotal Revolutionary War battle. The adjacent museum features works by Grandma Moses and other historical collections.
9. Marsh-Billings-Rockefeller National Historic Park
This park combines conservation with a Victorian mansion and formal gardens, offering tours and educational trails on land stewardship.
10. Lake Champlain
Lake Champlain is a hub for recreation and wildlife, with opportunities for boating, birdwatching, and possibly spotting the legendary lake monster, Champy.
11. Billings Farm & Museum
The Billings Farm & Museum educates visitors on Vermont's agricultural history with interactive exhibits and a working farm experience.
12. Visit a Maple Farm
Maple farms like Morse Farm Maple Sugarworks and Sugarbush Farm offer year-round tours and tastings of Vermont's signature maple syrup and cheese.
13. Brattleboro Farmers' Market
The Brattleboro Farmers' Market is a community hub offering local produce, artisanal goods, and a taste of the region's vibrant culture.
14. Ben & Jerry's
The Ben & Jerry's factory tour in Waterbury is a treat for all ages, complete with ice cream samples and a visit to the Flavor Graveyard.
15. Shelburne Museum
The Shelburne Museum showcases America's art and history through its extensive collections housed in historic buildings set among beautiful gardens.
16. Fairbanks Museum & Planetarium
The Fairbanks Museum & Planetarium in St. Johnsbury offers a mix of natural history exhibits and interactive science displays, including a planetarium.
17. Montshire Museum of Science
The Montshire Museum of Science in Norwich encourages hands-on learning with interactive exhibits and outdoor nature trails.
18. Rock of Ages Quarry and Hope Cemetery
Barre's Rock of Ages Quarry, the world's largest, offers tours and a chance to create your own granite souvenir, while Hope Cemetery showcases intricate stone carvings.
19. Park-McCullough Historic Governor's Mansion
The Park-McCullough Historic Governor's Mansion in North Bennington is a well-preserved example of Victorian architecture and decoration.
20. Green Mountain National Forest
The Green Mountain National Forest offers scenic drives, hiking trails, and camping, with the Appalachian and Long Trails traversing its landscape.
