Vermont On Us Map
Vermont, located in the northeastern region of the United States, is a state known for its beautiful landscapes, vibrant culture, and outdoor adventures. With its picturesque mountains, rolling hills, and quaint towns, Vermont is a popular destination for travelers seeking a break from the hustle and bustle of city life. In this comprehensive travel guide, we’ll cover everything you need to know about visiting Vermont, including its top attractions, hidden gems, food scene, budget-friendly tips, and more.
Top Attractions in Vermont
Vermont is home to many top attractions that draw visitors from all over the world. Some of the most popular attractions in the state include:
Ben & Jerry’s Factory Tour
The Ben & Jerry’s Factory is located in Waterbury, Vermont, and offers guided tours of the ice cream production process. Visitors can enjoy free samples of ice cream and learn about the history and mission of Ben & Jerry’s.
The Vermont Teddy Bear Company
The Vermont Teddy Bear Company, located in Shelburne, Vermont, is a popular attraction for families. Visitors can take a tour of the factory and see how teddy bears are made. There’s also a retail store where you can purchase a teddy bear to take home.
Church Street Marketplace
The Church Street Marketplace is a pedestrian-only street in downtown Burlington, Vermont. It’s lined with shops, restaurants, and street performers, making it a popular spot for tourists and locals alike.
Hidden Gems in Vermont
Beyond the popular attractions, Vermont is also home to many hidden gems that are worth exploring. Some of these hidden gems include:
The Vermont Country Store
The Vermont Country Store, located in Weston, Vermont, is a step back in time. The store sells old-fashioned toys, candies, and household goods, and visitors can also sample local cheeses and maple syrup.
The Green Mountain Audubon Center
The Green Mountain Audubon Center, located in Huntington, Vermont, is a nature preserve where visitors can hike, birdwatch, and learn about the local ecosystem. The center also offers educational programs for kids and adults.
The Shelburne Museum
The Shelburne Museum, located in Shelburne, Vermont, is a museum of art and Americana. It’s home to a collection of more than 150,000 works, including paintings, quilts, and folk art. The museum is set on 45 acres of gardens and walking trails.
Food Scene in Vermont
Vermont is known for its farm-to-table cuisine and abundance of fresh, local ingredients. Some of the must-try foods in Vermont include:
Maple Syrup
Vermont produces more maple syrup than any other state in the US. Visitors can take a tour of a local sugarhouse to see how maple syrup is made and purchase some to take home.
Cheese
Vermont is home to many small-batch cheese makers who produce a variety of delicious cheeses. Some of the most popular cheese makers include Cabot Creamery and Shelburne Farms.
Apple Cider Donuts
Apple cider donuts are a Vermont specialty. These donuts are made with fresh apple cider and are a must-try for anyone visiting the state.
Budget-Friendly Tips for Vermont
Visiting Vermont doesn’t have to break the bank. Here are a few budget-friendly tips for traveling to the state:
Visit in the Off-Season
Vermont is a popular destination in the summer and fall, but visiting in the off-season can save you money on lodging and activities.
Take Advantage of Free Activities
There are many free activities to enjoy in Vermont, including hiking, swimming, and visiting local farmers markets.
Stay in a Vacation Rental
Staying in a vacation rental can be more affordable than staying in a hotel, especially if you’re traveling with a group.
Outdoor Adventures in Vermont
Vermont is a paradise for outdoor enthusiasts. Some of the top outdoor adventures in the state include:
Hiking
Vermont is home to miles of hiking trails, including the Long Trail and the Appalachian Trail. Hiking in Vermont offers stunning views of the state’s mountains and forests.
Skiing
Vermont is home to many world-class ski resorts, including Stowe, Killington, and Sugarbush. Skiing in Vermont offers some of the best skiing on the East Coast.
Kayaking and Canoeing
Vermont’s lakes and rivers offer perfect opportunities for kayaking and canoeing. Visitors can rent kayaks and canoes and explore the state’s waterways.
Family-Friendly Activities in Vermont
Vermont is a great destination for families. Here are a few family-friendly activities to enjoy in the state:
The Montshire Museum of Science
The Montshire Museum of Science, located in Norwich, Vermont, is a hands-on museum that offers interactive exhibits for kids of all ages.
The Vermont Teddy Bear Factory
The Vermont Teddy Bear Factory, mentioned earlier, is a great attraction for families. Kids can see how teddy bears are made and even make their own bear to take home.
The ECHO Leahy Center for Lake Champlain
The ECHO Leahy Center for Lake Champlain, located in Burlington, Vermont, is a science museum that explores the ecology and culture of Lake Champlain. It offers interactive exhibits for kids and adults.
Off-the-Beaten-Path Experiences in Vermont
If you’re looking for something a little different, Vermont has plenty of off-the-beaten-path experiences to explore. Here are a few ideas:
The Bread and Puppet Museum
The Bread and Puppet Museum, located in Glover, Vermont, is a museum of political puppets. Visitors can see puppets that have been used in protests and political rallies.
The Dog Chapel
The Dog Chapel, located in St. Johnsbury, Vermont, is a chapel dedicated to dogs. Visitors can leave notes and pictures of their own dogs, and there are often live dogs on site.
The Wilson Castle
The Wilson Castle, located in Proctor, Vermont, is a Victorian-era mansion that offers tours. The castle has been used as a setting for several movies and TV shows.
Natural Wonders in Vermont
Vermont is home to many natural wonders, including:
The Quechee Gorge
The Quechee Gorge, located in Quechee, Vermont, is a 165-foot-deep gorge that offers stunning views of the surrounding landscape. Visitors can hike the trails around the gorge or take in the views from the observation deck.
The Green Mountains
The Green Mountains, located in central and southern Vermont, offer some of the best hiking and skiing in the state. Visitors can hike to the summit of Mount Mansfield, the highest peak in Vermont, or ski the slopes at one of the many ski resorts in the area.
The Lake Champlain Islands
The Lake Champlain Islands, located in northern Vermont, offer a peaceful escape from the hustle and bustle of the rest of the state. Visitors can enjoy swimming, kayaking, and fishing in the lake, or explore the small towns and farms on the islands.
Vibrant Nightlife in Vermont
While Vermont may be known for its outdoor adventures and small-town charm, there’s also a vibrant nightlife scene in the state. Some of the top places to enjoy nightlife in Vermont include:
Nectar’s
Nectar’s, located in Burlington, Vermont, is a live music venue that has hosted many famous musicians, including Phish. Visitors can enjoy live music and a lively atmosphere.
The Rusty Nail
The Rusty Nail, located in Stowe, Vermont, is a bar that offers live music and a relaxed atmosphere. Visitors can enjoy a drink and take in the local music scene.
The Vermont Comedy Club
The Vermont Comedy Club, located in Burlington, Vermont, offers stand-up comedy shows and improv performances. Visitors can enjoy a night of laughs and entertainment.
Local Markets in Vermont
Vermont is home to many local markets that offer fresh produce, baked goods, and handmade crafts. Some of the top local markets in Vermont include:
The Burlington Farmers Market
The Burlington Farmers Market, located in downtown Burlington, Vermont, is a popular destination for locals and tourists alike. Visitors can browse the stalls of local farmers and artisans and enjoy live music and food trucks.
The Brattleboro Farmers Market
The Brattleboro Farmers Market, located in Brattleboro, Vermont, is