50 Things to Do in Vermont: Bucket List & Travel Guide (2024)

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There are so many amazing things to do in Vermont. I should know, because I lived there for 15 years! From hikes and small towns to local foods and snowy peaks, this small state packs a lot into its 9,616 square miles.

I truly love Vermont, and I know you will, too! I have created this ultimate Vermont travel guide to help you plan your trip to Vermont.

In this guide I share 50 of my favorite things to do in Vermont, including the best places to visit in Vermont, fun VT activities in all seasons, and essential Vermont attractions.

Plus, I answer a few of the most frequently asked questions about visiting Vermont, including the best time to visit. I hope you have an epic adventure exploring our magical Green Mountain state!

Table of Contents

50 Best Things to Do in Vermont

In Vermont’s top destinations and beyond, here is a deeper look into the best and most fun things to do in Vermont in fall, winter, spring, or summer!

1. Go shopping and people-watching at Church Street Marketplace

author amy standing in a brick paved plaza with shops on either side and a church steeple in the distance. this is church street in burlington vermont

One of the most well-known places to go in Vermont is Burlington’s Church Street Marketplace, a pedestrian-only thoroughfare that is bursting with restaurants, shops, and outdoor performers. This is an excellent spot for people-watching, but it’s also the center of the downtown space so there’s so much to do, and some of the best shopping in Vermont.

A few of the stores I recommend not to miss on Church Street include Lake Champlain Chocolates, Outdoor Gear Exchange, Homeport, Crow Bookshop, Ecco Clothes, and the Frog Hollow Craft Association and Gallery. Church Street alone could keep you busy all day, but there’s definitely a lot more to check out in VT’s largest city.

Check out my list of all the other cool things to do in Burlington Vermont!

2. Take a Vermont fall road trip (especially along Route 100)

A Vermont road trip is great at any time of year, but especially in the fall when the foliage is at its best; this would be a fun idea if you’re looking for what to do in Vermont in October!

One excellent option is a Route 100 road trip, which will take you almost the entire length of the state. If you’re looking for a shorter route, consider a quicker journey on one of these scenic Vermont drives.

3. Sample Vermont craft beers

Smiling woman enjoying a beer tasting on a sunny patio in Vermont, with colorful umbrellas and a lively crowd in the background, suggesting a popular activity for visitors

Beer should be a part of your essential Vermont activities without a doubt. Vermont has dozens of craft breweries all around the state that are worth visiting. Vermont’s biggest city, Burlington, is home to a great many of these breweries, so you can check a lot off your list when visiting Burlington. Foam Brewers is one of the local favorites, with a great location near Lake Champlain. I really enjoy their sours!

4. Visit the Cold Hollow Cider Mill

Hand holding a Cold Hollow Cider Mill cup with freshly baked donuts stacked on top, a quintessential treat to try when visiting Vermont

One of the best places to visit in Vermont is the Cold Hollow Cider Mill, and it certainly is on every bucket list for Vermont in the fall!

Located in Waterbury, Vermont, on the road heading towards Stowe, this is a cider mill, apple-focused country store, restaurant, hard cidery, and more. It is completely adorable, perfectly fall, and smells like cinnamon heaven. Cold Hollow Cider Mill has been an institution in VT since the late 1970s and continues to be one of Vermont’s top tourist attractions. I guarantee you’ll leave here feeling cozy and happy from this perfect Vermont spot.

Grab a few locally-made products, tuck into a cold glass of cider, and above all, make sure to try the apple cider donuts which are out of this world.

5. Explore charming Woodstock, Vermont

One of best places to see in Vermont is the town of Woodstock. This destination is my top recommendation for someone coming to Vermont for the first time, as it encapsulates all that you imagine about Vermont!

Woodstock has been repeatedly named one of the most beautiful small towns in America and I agree completely. Especially at Christmastime, Woodstock is one of those towns that looks straight out of a Hallmark movie

There are so many great things to do in Woodstock in every season, such as hiking, visiting the Marsh-Billings-Rockefeller National Historical Park, and walking the charming Woodstock streets. Also be sure to visit F.H. Gillingham & Sons, the general store that has been in Woodstock since 1886 and offers one-of-a-kind specialty gifts for any occasion. 

6. Join one of Ben & Jerry’s Ice Cream Factory Tours

Colorful mural at a Vermont attraction showcasing a whimsical scene with a cow in a flannel shirt, ski slopes, and cows engaging in winter sports, reflecting the state's unique charm and sense of humor.

Want to visit one of the top Vermont attractions (and the yummiest)? I know where to send you! One of the best places to visit in Vermont is the original Ben & Jerry’s Ice Cream Factory. The entire place is so cute and creative, and as soon as you walk in, you’re enveloped in that oh-so-divine scent of ice cream and cookies. Ben & Jerry’s is great for anyone looking for good family fun in Vermont, too.

Take the Factory Tour, grab a free sample, or visit the quirky Flavor Graveyard to pay homage to short-lived flavors of the past. RIP “Makin’ Whoopie Pie.” This is one of those fun places to visit in Vermont that help to “keep Vermont cool!”

7. Hike to the summit of Camel’s Hump

New Hampshire isn’t the only state in New England to boast incredible hiking. Vermont is home to hundreds of miles of trails snaking across the Green Mountains.

Hiking is one of the most fun things to do in VT, with summer and fall being the most popular seasons for hikes. In addition to the Long Trail, the Vermont section of the Appalachian Trail, there are countless others worth exploring in the Green Mountain National Forest. 

One of the best hikes in Vermont is to the top of Camel’s Hump. This distinctive peak can be seen from a great distance and looks—as you might expect—something like the hump of a camel. Take this popular loop trail to achieve the summit of the state’s 3rd highest peak–the view is exquisite at the height of fall foliage.

8. Check out the Trapp Family Lodge in Stowe

View from the Trapp Family Lodge in Vermont, overlooking the lush Green Mountains on a misty day, an ideal retreat among the things to do in Vermont for travelers seeking solace in nature.
View from our room in Trapp Family Lodge on a chilly spring day

Visiting the Trapp Family Lodge is one of the best things to do around Stowe, VT. Did you know that the Von Trapp family, made famous by the film The Sound of Music, actually came to Vermont when they left Austria? They settled in the Stowe area, purportedly because it reminded them of their beloved Austrian alps. Here the family opened a hotel, and it remains one of the top places to visit in VT–and to stay!

Even if you don’t stay at the hotel, you can book many outdoor activities, like cross-country skiing or even sleigh rides (one of the best things to do in Vermont at Christmas, by the way!) Also make sure you admire the outside of the Bavarian-inspired inn, enjoy the phenomenal mountain views, and grab a drink and bite at their onsite brewery.

9. Swim in a cool Vermont lake

people relaxing on a beach near a grassy hill on a sunny summer's day by a lake in Vermont

A day at the lake is one of the absolute best things to do in Vermont in summer! Vermont’s lakes are absolutely gorgeous, and there are some fantastic lake house rentals in Vermont if you want a weekend getaway.

My favorite lake in Vermont is Emerald Lake in East Dorset, VT. It’s name says it all! This spot is many hues of brilliant Vermont green all summer long. You can rent paddle boats and canoes for a quick trip around the small lake, or just swim in the shallows along the beach.

Fancy a swim? See more of the best lakes in Vermont and swimming holes.

10. Keep your eyes out for the Lake Monster

Looking for unique things to do in Vermont? Get a look at the Lake Monster!

Did you know that Vermont has its very own “Loch Ness” monster? Legend has it that Lake Champlain has a frightful creature lurking beneath its waters: the Lake Monster, also known as Champ. Keep close watch along the surface of the lake and you might just catch a glimpse of this elusive cryptid.

11. Explore the covered bridges

amy standing wrapped in a blanket in front of a red covered bridge, stick season in vermont
I highly recommend checking out the Arlington Green Covered Bridge in West Arlington. I used to live right near it!

When it comes to what to see in Vermont, covered bridges are a must. And there are more than 100 covered bridges in Vermont! These historic structures, most of which are still in use, are dotted throughout the state and are scenic points of interest in every season.

12. See the Lincoln family home, Hildene in Manchester

image of stately mansion set behind wide organized garden - hildene in vermont
This historic estate of Hildene is such a gorgeous Vermont attraction!

If you’re a fan of presidential history or pretty old houses with lovely gardens, you are sure to love Hildene, in the fun town of Manchester, VT. This property belonged to Abraham Lincoln’s son Robert Todd Lincoln. While the 16th President never resided here, you can view one of his iconic stovepipe top hats during your visit! Not only does the site boast a magnificent home that you can tour, there are also verdant gardens, breathtaking mountain views, and a working goat farm. Hildene also has a fantastic gift shop for grabbing your Vermont souvenirs.

Looking for more towns to explore? I’ve got a whole list of the most charming small towns in Vermont where you’re sure to find an idyllic utopia.

13. Walk, ride, or blade along the Burlington Bike Path

Stretching for miles throughout the city of Burlington and then further along the shores of Lake Champlain is the Burlington Bike Path. This route is beloved by avid cyclists, walkers, and visitors, as it offers some of the finest views of the magical lake and the Adirondacks in the distance.

You may want to continue onward on this trail even further, and you can! The Burlington Bike Path is part of the much longer Island Line Trail. Also known as the Colchester Causeway, this is a 13.4-mile rail trail that extends all the way to the Champlain Islands. At one point along the route, you will find yourself on a narrow strip of land with lake views all around you. It’s pretty epic.

14. Visit the Vermont Teddy Bear Factory

A visit to the iconic Vermont Teddy Bear Factory is one of the best things to do in Vermont with kids. Vermont Teddy Bear is located in Shelburne, just south of Burlington. Kids will have a blast creating their own special bear: the ultimate Vermont souvenir!

15. Visit the baby animals at Billings Farm and Museum

A group of young pigs cuddling together on a bed of straw inside a rustic barn, an adorable sight for visitors enjoying agritourism activities in Vermont.
I’m pretty sure both my son and I squealed when we saw this pile of piggies at Billings Farm

Billings Farm and Museum is a must-see Woodstock, Vermont attraction. A working and historic farm, boasting animals such as dairy cows, draft horses, sheep, as well as many hands-on activities, this is quintessential Vermont. Time your visit for the springtime and you may be in luck to be there for the annual Baby Farm Animal Celebration, which is just as cute as it sounds.

Picnic tables nestled near a winding pathway with a scenic view of the lush green fields and rolling hills in Vermont, offering a perfect spot for a leisurely outdoor meal in the countryside.

PS: Also don’t miss the adjacent Marsh-Billings-Rockefeller National Historical Park. This is a beautiful spot with nature trails, a Victorian mansion, and more.

🌸Read my best advice on things to do in Vermont in spring!

16. See where Robert Frost wrote some of his most famous poems

Robert Frost, widely known for his nature-inspired poetry and vivid New England descriptions, is one of the most well-known poets in American history. In fact, he was once the poet laureate of the Green Mountain State. In Shaftsbury, VT, visit the Stone House Museum, historic buildings where the poet once lived and where he wrote several of his classic works, including “Stopping By Woods on a Snowy Evening.”

PS: The current VT Poet Laureate is Mary Ruefle, who resides in nearby Bennington. Interestingly, that is the same town in which Robert Frost is buried. You can visit his grave in the cemetery at the Old Fist Church, Bennington.

Want to check out more things to do in the Bennington VT area?

17. Tour the Rock of Ages Quarry – the biggest granite quarry in the world

The 600-foot deep Rock of Ages Granite Quarry (also known as Smith Quarry) located in Barre, Vermont is “the largest operating deep-hole, dimension granite quarry in the world.” And you can tour it!

If you’re looking for things to do in central Vermont, you may want to add a tour to this incredible quarry itinerary. Among things to do onsite is to bowl a game or two on their outdoor granite bowling lane; this is certainly one of the most unique places to visit in Vermont!

18. Go skiing at Stowe Mountain Resort

 Yes, there are things to do in Vermont in winter besides skiing, but can you really go on a Vermont vacation and not hit the slopes? Skiing is one of the most fun things to do in Vermont in the winter, and should definitely be added to your VT bucket list! While you could hit the fresh pow’ at any of Vermont’s best mountain resorts, Stowe Mountain Resort is a terrific choice. This is a perfect place for a Vermont ski vacation, and it’s in a gorgeous area of the state.

Not interested in cruising downhill? Cross country skiing might be more your speed, and there are lots of awesome spots to do so in Vermont.

19. Visit a local farmer’s market

Farmer’s markets are extremely popular in Vermont, offering a chance to support the local food scene and serving up some of the best shopping in Vermont. In Burlington, the farmer’s market is held on Saturdays all summer long. If your trip to Vermont doesn’t coincide with a farmer’s market, you may be able to find a roadside farmstand selling fresh produce. They’re everywhere in Vermont in the warmer months.

20. Taste pure maple syrup from where it’s made best

A bottle of pure maple syrup in the shape of a maple leaf glistens with the golden light of a setting sun, a quintessential product of Vermont's rich sugaring tradition

Vermont is home of the world’s best maple syrup (though we can’t compete with Canada when it comes to quantity produced!) While you travel Vermont, be sure to sample some of this liquid gold. A sugarhouse like Morse Farm Maple Sugarworks, in Montpelier, is the perfect place to do so. You can sample maple syrup, find tons of maple-infused products, and learn how the syrup-making process works.

If you’re looking for things to do in Vermont in March, you’re just in time for sugaring season! Don’t miss the chance to try sugar on snow, a classic Vermont winter treat. There are also numerous other Vermont sugar houses you can check out; this is definitely on the list of fun activities in Vermont!

21. Spend time on a working farm: The Fat Sheep Farm

a smiling woman in a red and black plaid flannel frolics in a green field with sheep in the distance - things to do in vermont
In my element — on a farm with sheep!

A Vermont farm stay is an amazing way to experience life on the farm, Vermont-style. There are a number of places you can do this by joining in for chores, learning about animals, crops, and more. My favorite is Fat Sheep Farm. My husband and I loved our stay there and definitely recommend the experience if you’re looking for more things to do near Woodstock!

22. Visit the top of the Bennington Battle Monument

Interested in historic sites? If you find yourself in Southern Vermont, you won’t want to miss the Bennington Battle Monument. And in fact, it’s hard TO miss, standing at 306ft and 4.5 inches tall! This iconic obelisk structure is visible for miles around. This also means that when you head to the top, you’re in for some sensational views of the surrounding Green Mountains.

23. Catch some fantastic live theatre

Vermont is a very artistic state; a culturally-happening place. Personally, I’m a big fan of Vermont theatre. The best place to catch a Broadway-caliber performance is at the Weston Playhouse. Some of the finest shows I’ve ever seen in my life were ones I’ve seen there, and this is one of those activities in Vermont where you can get a little dressed up and go show off for a while!

24. Drive to the top of Mt. Equinox

a view of a road that seems to lead to the horizon, mountains close in the distance. road is top of a mountain in Vermont
Vermont views from the top of a mountain? Yes, please!

No list of beautiful places to visit in Vermont would be complete without Mount Equinox in southwestern Vermont. Sitting at over 3,800 feet above sea level, it is the highest peak in the Taconic Mountains and the second highest mountain in the state. You can drive to the summit of Mount Equinox via Skyline Drive, the longest privately owned, paved toll road and one of the safest, best engineered toll roads in the United States.

But, while the 5-mile drive to the top offers outstanding views, the summit is the true showstopper. The summit of Mount Equinox is known for providing an astounding 360-degree view of the surrounding Green Mountains and Champlain Valley of Vermont, White Mountains of New Hampshire, Adirondack Mountains of New York, and Berkshire Mountains of Massachusetts.

25. Explore the Shelburne Museum

Mother and child walking towards the historic Ticonderoga steamship on display in Vermont, illustrating a family-friendly activity and the state's rich maritime history


Shelburne Museum is an absolute gem and a must-visit on any Vermont itinerary, especially for those who appreciate a deep dive into history and culture. Located in the charming town of Shelburne, just a short drive from Burlington, this museum is not your typical indoor gallery. It’s an expansive, open-air museum that beautifully blends art, history, and architecture across its 45 acres.

Imagine wandering through over 39 distinct structures, each offering a unique glimpse into America’s past. From a steamboat to a lighthouse, historic houses to barns, the museum captivates with its diverse collection. And it’s not just about buildings; the museum boasts an impressive array of folk art, quilts, and even a carousel!

26. Check out the Old Round Church

Round buildings are really interesting, and Vermont is home to a few. The Old Round Church in Richmond is a historic site, and checking it out is one of my favorite cool things to do in Vermont. Technically not “round,” the Old Round Church is a sixteen-sided town meeting hall and place of worship built in 1812-1813. It’s definitely worth a visit, simply because it is so unique and photogenic, but also essential for history buffs.

27. Stop at Vermont Cookie Love when driving Route 7

Hand holding a freshly baked chocolate chip cookie in front of the sign for 'the LOVE shack', capturing a moment of sweet indulgence at a quaint dessert spot

If you have any kind of sweet tooth, you must go to Vermont Cookie Love. I’ve driven that road hundreds of times and the possibility of chocolatey goodness never fails to entice me. Located along Route 7 in North Ferrisburgh, the home of Vermont Cookie Love, aka the Love Shack, is waiting for you, too! What could be better than a fresh, warm cookie? These are baked with love (and consumed with abandon—at least in this house!)

28. Sail aboard a Lake Champlain day cruise

Lake Champlain is one of the top things to see in Vermont, and if you can get out on the water, all the better. If renting a boat or paddling a kayak isn’t your style, I suggest jumping aboard a Lake Champlain ferry or on a day cruise. There are several options for scenic cruises and boat rentals on Lake Champlain, and the experience is relaxing and fun; def one of the top Lake Champlain activities!

29. Explore Wilson Castle, a 19th-century castle

Did you know Vermont has some castles? Years ago, I visited one of Vermont’ hidden gems: Wilson Castle. While this “technically” is not a castle, it’s a pretty awesome mansion located in Proctor, Vermont, close to the city of Rutland, and definitely on the list of things to do in central Vermont. Guided tours are offered.

30. Visit Bingham Falls

A person in a pink shirt climbs over rocky terrain toward a serene waterfall nestled in a forest, a moment of adventure and natural beauty to be found in the wilderness

One of the prettiest places in Vermont Stowe’s Bingham Falls in the Mount Mansfield State Forest. Bingham Falls is a popular tourist destination, owing to its stunning 40-foot cascading waterfall and deep gorges. There are two commonly used trails to reach the falls. The shorter .5-mile long Bingham Falls Trail is steeper, emerging at the base of the falls. The longer but easier 1.3-mile Mill Trail has several offshoots leading to picturesque views of the falls from various angles. It’s location in Smuggler’s Notch State Park makes this is a can’t miss gorgeous Vermont location! Read More: Amazing Waterfalls in Vermont

31. Get spooked at Emily’s Bridge

a gloomy day shows a muddy road leading to a dark brown covered bridge in Vermont

 Vermont covered bridges are fascinating and historical, and some of them may also be haunted! Such is the case for the infamous Emily’s Bridge located in Stowe. Legend has it that Emily died at the bridge, hanging herself after being jilted by her lover. Tales from visitors report things like scratches appearing on their car, banging sounds on the car when stopping on the bridge, and even bloody scratches found on the skin of pedestrians crossing the bridge.

I didn’t get any scratches when walking over it, but I did get a creepy feeling! This is considered to be one of the most haunted places in VT.

32. Go biking on the Kingdom Trails

Mountain bikers will love the vast network of Kingdom Trails in East Burke, VT. These are some of the best mountain biking trails in the US, and they are set among the spectacular scenery of Vermont’s Northeast Kingdom. If you’re looking for places to go in VT to get away from it all, this might be what you’re looking for!

33. Visit the Vermont State House

 Go to Vermont’s capital city Montpelier and keep heading toward the golden-domed state house. Self-guided tours are available year-round so you can get a firsthand look at big activity in this small state! Fun fact: for many years, Montpelier had the distinction of being the only state capital in the United States without a McDonald’s!

34. Check out the Calvin Coolidge State Historic Site

 If you’re a presidential history buff and looking for where to visit in Vermont, check out the home of American president, Calvin Coolidge. In Plymouth, VT, visitors will find his childhood home, where he took his presidential oath of office. In addition to being an important historic site, the whole center comprises “over 600 bucolic acres” of a timeless Vermont village filled with original artifacts. This includes a one-room schoolhouse, barns, a cheese factory, and the hillside cemetery where President Coolidge is buried. The Calvin Coolidge State Historic Site is open this year beginning May 26th, 2023 through October 22, 2023.

35. Photograph the fall foliage

A stunning autumnal landscape bathed in golden sunset light, highlighting the fiery hues of fall foliage on a hillside in Vermont, evoking the warmth and tranquility of the season
Autumn in Vermont is classic New England.

Who can resist those iconic Vermont fall colors?! Of course, VT boasts scenic splendor year round, but fall in Vermont fall is truly the most magical time, with its vibrant foliage framing colonial villages, white-steepled churches, and covered bridges. Grab your camera and make plans to visit Vermont in the fall. There’s a scenic shot waiting around every corner.

36. Dine at a farm-to-table restaurant

We take farm-to-table seriously in Vermont. There’s a strong culture of eating local and supporting farmers, and restaurants do this in all parts of the state. While there are countless farm-to-table options in Vermont, you must visit Cloudland Farm which is a culinary experience unto itself.

37. Find serenity in nature at Lake Willoughby

Venture into the Northeast Kingdom during your Vermont visit and you will find the majestic Lake Willoughby. Bordered by high, steep cliffs, the lake looks almost like a Nordic fjord. This is a perfect spot to get away from it all and really enjoy Vermont’s nature at its best.

38. Admire Quechee Gorge from above

aerial view of deep river gorge framed by early fall foliage, Vermont
Vermont scenery is impressive any time of year!

Speaking of Vermont scenery, one of the most interesting natural sites in the state is Quechee Gorge. You might wonder, “what’s so special about a gorge?” But it really is worth stopping to see. Park in the visitor center lot and walk carefully out onto the sidewalk on the bridge overlooking the gorge. Unparalleled Vermont views are to be seen on both sides.

39. Visit the Morgan Horse Farm

Did you know that Vermont’s State Animal is the Morgan Horse? See where they’ve been bred and trained since 1878 (the oldest continuous breeding herd) at the Morgan Horse Farm in Middlebury. The Morgan Horse Farm is open each summer from May until October.

40. Bring your canine pal to Dog Mountain

One of the quirkier Vermont tourist attractions out there is Dog Mountain. If you haven’t yet been to this canine mecca, add it to your Vermont itinerary. Dog Mountain is a private mountaintop spot in St. Johnsbury that belonged to artist Stephen Huneck. Today, it houses a gallery and a dog chapel, hosting several events throughout the year. Dogs are always welcome on the property to run free and enjoy the sights alongside their human companions; this is one of those fun tourist spots in Vermont where you can bring your furry friends, too!

41. Visit Vermont’s oldest general store

A two story historic brick building with the name F.H. Gillingham & Sons on the front.

The Green Mountain State has many picturesque general stores that should be on your list of Vermont places to visit. While you have to visit the well-known Vermont Country Store, nothing compares to an old-fashioned, historic general store. Many of these claim to be the oldest in Vermont. I am partial to believe the oldest is FH Gillingham and Sons in Woodstock. No matter its age, it is incredibly charming—and they also have a great wine selection.

42. Eat as much Cabot cheese as you can stomach

Could there be a more quintessential Vermont option for Vermont things to do? Vermont once claimed that it had more cows than people living in the state, so it’s no surprise that we make excellent dairy products.

Cabot Cheese is one of the most famous, and with good reason. It’s fairly easy to find Cabot Cheese throughout the state, but you can sample loads of the stuff if you visit The Cabot Farmers’ Store in Waterbury. If you are looking for the tastiest things to do in VT, you can try dozens of flavors of Cabot cheese there. 

Read Next: Exploring the Vermont Cheese Trail

43. Drink a maple latte

two lattes in a pink and red mug on a counter

 This might not be on other lists of VT things to do, but it is certainly an essential item on mine! I’m a huge coffee drinker and there’s nothing quite so good as a hot, steaming latte. In Vermont, flavors like vanilla and hazelnut are passé. Instead, have your latte with a shot of pure Vermont maple syrup. I promise you it’s as wonderful as it sounds, and you can find this delicious beverage all over the state. As of 2023, the best maple latte I’ve had in Vermont was from Brio Coffeeworks in Burlington!

44. Ride the gondola to the top of Mount Mansfield

I’ve mentioned Stowe several times already in this guide, because I think it is the best place to vacation in Vermont. And while you’re in Stowe, you can’t miss riding to the peak of Mount Mansfield.

Mount Mansfield is the tallest mountain in Vermont. While it’s home to many exciting ski trails come winter, in the summer and fall, visitors can ascend to the top in the iconic red Gondola SkyRide. This is such an easy and fun way to get to the top of Mt. Mansfield, and you’ll be rewarded with fantastic views. I highly recommend riding the Stowe gondola in the fall for the most breathtaking foliage views!

45. Take a horse-drawn sleigh ride in the winter

Speaking of Stowe, it’s a great place to take a snowy Vermont sleigh ride. The Trapp Family Lodge in Stowe is an excellent and incredibly scenic spot for this bucket list winter activity.

46. Browse Northshire Bookstore

interior of a cozy bookstore in Manchester, Vermont

One of my favorite places to visit in Vermont is in Manchester. Northshire Bookstore is a massive, adorable independent bookstore that is an incredible place to get lost for a few hours. If you love books, it’s heaven. If you love cool Vermont souvenirs, it’s also amazing! One of the standouts of this shop is there incredible 2nd floor, devoted entirely to a Children’s Section. It’s absolutely worth visiting this spot when in Vermont and be sure to support them by buying local!

47. Have a massive, delicious breakfast

a big breakfast spread, french toast, pancakes, scrambled eggs, coffee, on a colorful table

 This is a to-do that is not exclusive to Vermont, by any means. But I have never found a better breakfast than the ones I’ve had in Vermont. Truly, a homestyle, country, hearty breakfast with Vermont maple syrup, local blueberries, Cabot butter, and delicious coffee; there’s something so Vermont about this. Take time to dive into a good brunch during your Vermont visit. I’ve got local recommendations all over the site for some of my favorite cities. The Skinny Pancake, specializing in sweet and savory crepes, is one such Vermont breakfast spot. You can find a few locations all over the state!

48. Take a ride on the Green Mountain Railroad

That’s right, you can take a scenic train ride on the Green Mountain Railroad! If you’re looking for what to see and do in Vermont that will give you a little taste of the area, consider doing a 3-hour round trip Champlain Valley Dinner Train ride. Not only will you get to enjoy the gorgeous Vermont scenery, but the 3 course gourmet dinner isn’t so bad, either!

49. Check out the Vermont Country Store

A woman sits on the bed of a vintage blue pickup truck parked in front of "The Vermont Country Store" with a horse-drawn carriage sign on the barn-like red building. The sky is partly cloudy, and the setting has a rustic charm

I believe visiting the Vermont Country Store is a quintessential Vermont experience. This charming and nostalgia-filled store will transport you back in time with its collection of goods, from classic toys to artisanal cheeses. You definitely won’t leave empty handed.

50. Eat a maple creemee

My last item on the list is the incredible maple creemee. The Vermont creemee is Vermont’s version of soft-serve ice cream. The best flavor is—-you guessed it—-maple. You can find amazing creemees all over the state in the summertime. Here are the spots I’d definitely recommend checking out:

  • Morse Farm – Montpelier
  • April’s Maple – Canaan
  • Palmer Lane – Jericho

FAQ About Vermont

What’s the best time of year to visit Vermont?

The best time to visit Vermont is in the summer and fall. While Vermont is lovely throughout the year, most visitors find late May through October to be best for comfortable weather. To enjoy the best of fall leaves in New England, you’ll want to plan your Vermont trip for mid-September through early October.

For my personal recommendation, I find Vermont in May to be the best time to visit, as it is truly gorgeous. The green of summer is just starting to pop and the weather is growing warmer every day. It’s my little secret Vermont travel tip. Except now you know, too. Oops!

What is the prettiest town in Vermont?

There are so many beautiful destinations in Vermont, I would be hard-pressed to pick the most beautiful! But some of the prettiest towns in Vermont include Stowe, Woodstock, and Manchester.

What’s the best way to get to Vermont?

While you can certainly drive to Vermont from many locations in the US, most travelers opt to fly. The best place to fly into Vermont is the Burlington International Airport (BTV). This is the major airport in Vermont and is convenient to many of Vermont’s top destinations.

What is the best way to get around Vermont?

The best way to explore Vermont is by car, as it offers flexibility to visit various attractions, especially in rural areas. Public transportation options are very limited outside major towns.

What is the weather like in Vermont?

Bar graph displaying the high and low temperature ranges for Vermont by month, providing a visual representation of the state's climate throughout the year

Vermont has a wet continental climate that features cold winters, warm summers and precipitation all year round. In plain language, that means Vermont gets hot in the summer (sometimes super hot) and very cold in the winter. There is a true 4-season climate in Vermont, although some say Mud Season is it’s own entity, but the winters do seem to last long. The weather and temperatures in April can be quite variable.

What should I pack for a trip to Vermont?

Packing in Vermont depends on the season. Warm clothes and snow gear are essential in winter, while summers call for lighter attire. Always bring comfortable shoes for outdoor activities. My advice is always to pack layers. The weather can change throughout the day, even in summer, and layers ensure you can easily adjust what you’re wearing.

What is Vermont known for?

Vermont is known for its maple syrup, cheese, pastoral landscapes, progressive culture, and its fall foliage, among many other things. Read more all about the things Vermont is known for.


More places to explore in Vermont:

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