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15 Best Small Towns to Visit in Vermont

New England has a reputation for natural beauty, and Vermont stands out as exceptionally stunning.  There is a picturesque charm about Vermont that is difficult to resist.  Chock full of small towns, they generally have a village centre, a Main Street, historic architecture, unique boutiques and businesses, and a sense of community that defines its character. Regardless of the season, visitors can enjoy the outdoors, incredible food, and the best that New England has to offer.

Lets have a look at the most charming small towns to visit in Vermont :

Chester has the distinction of having two areas on the National Register of Historic Places.  Stone Village, named for the granite buildings there, and the Chester Historic Districts both have traces of colonial architecture and a New England early American aesthetic.

It often serves as base camp for outdoor adventures heading for nearby Mount Killington, Okemo, and Mount Snow. Boaters, cyclists, and ski bums stay in Chester for that small town experience, while taking advantage of the resorts and parks nearby.

One of the most popular activities is a day trip on the Green Mountain Flyer Scenic Railroad.  Gorgeous from beginning to end.  While you’re there, don’t miss the Stone House Antique Centre, Da Vallia Art, and the Vermont Institute of Contemporary Arts.

2. Woodstock

Woodstock has been a popular tourist destination for years – giving them plenty of time to perfect the quintessential Vermont experience.  The town easily combines charming and upscale to provide the escape that you need with all the amenities attached.  The boutique and antique shopping is among the best in the state, the dining options are incredible, and the entertainment is almost endless.

History buffs will enjoy the Billings Farm and Museum.  Once owned by Laurence and Mary French Rockefeller, the farm is now a dairy with a restored late 19th century farm house – both National Historic Landmarks. Art lovers will enjoy the many galleries (top pick:  Stephen Huneck Gallery), and foodies will want to spend a day in F.H. Gillingham & Sons.  This is a general store and gourmet shopping experience not to be missed.

3. Montpelier

America’s smallest capital is Montpelier, Vermont. Among the locals (and all Vermonters consider themselves local) it’s known for its many farm-to-table restaurants, and daily farmers market.

As the centre of government for the state, there is a little something of everything here. Visit the Vermont Historical Society Museum, the state house, Hubbard Park, the New England Culinary Institute, and T.W. Wood Art Gallery.

And that’s just a start! Make no mistake, this is still a small town, with the kind of hospitality and charm you expect.  But with such a thriving cultural scene, Montpelier is something special.

4. Brattleboro

Located in the southern part of the state, Brattleboro has a funky, crunchy, arts vibe that attracts people from all over the region.  It’s a walkable town with tons of clubs, restaurants, studios, galleries, and shops.  Its contemporary atmosphere is balanced by the beauty of Mother Nature.

There’s a gorgeous mountain or river view no matter where you are in town.  When you’re out walking, an impromptu street performance is not out of the question, and you’ll love stopping at the independent bookstores, record shops, and crafts boutiques.

The town has several theatres, many with historic significance.  Every month there’s a First Friday Gallery Walk and almost every restaurant exhibits local artists.  Brattleboro is a town that will have you talking about it for a long time after.

A few minutes from Brattleboro is Putney. It’s got a similar vibe, but even more laid back. Check out the spinnery, the berry and apple orchards, and the winery while you’re there.  This is a place for slow walks and deep breaths.

It’s the kind of place you don’t tell people about because you don’t want it to ever change.  Sacketts Brook still has its original stone arch bridge and flows right through the centre of town. Putney general store and co-op are community staples.  It’s that kind of town.

At the bottom of Mount Abraham is Lincoln. The natural surroundings along the New Haven River will take your breath away.  The residents take pride in the beauty of the farms and forests in the area.  Settled by Quakers in the late 18th century, there are about 1200 residents now.

Lincoln is best known for its interesting treehouse. Built across four large maples and 30 feet up from the ground, you can stay there for $150 per night – complete with heat, shower, electricity, and even a mini fridge. Don’t forget to visit the Old Hotel, the general store, and Burnham Hall.

This is the place for festival lovers.  They’ve got a celebration for everything, and people come from all over the state for the Outhouse Race – the longest running one in the country.  All of downtown is listed as a National Historic District and you’ll definitely feel that you’ve stepped back in time.

Bristol is located in the foothills of the green Mountains and makes the perfect getaway spot.  Visitors love the village shops and the friendliness of the locals. If you’re around in June, don’t miss the Pocock Rocks Street Fair or the Bristol Band summer concerts (which have been happening since the end of the Civil War).

No matter the season, Stowe is a prime destination in Vermont.  Thanks to Stowe Mountain Resort there are outdoor adventures just waiting to be had.  Mount Mansfield is the tallest peak in Vermont and it’s a mecca for nature enthusiasts.  Ski, hike, or return again and again to do both.

The village itself is 200 years old and downtown you’ll find museums, galleries, theatres, outdoor film festivals, the Vermont Ski and Snowboard Museum, and plenty of fine dining. It’s year round beauty make it one of the absolute must-visit towns.

9. Waterbury

When Vermonters need to get away from it all, they go to Waterbury. Often described as a sleepy town, Waterbury is a low key, low profile kind of town. Town pride is cantered around locally sourced fine dining.

Its undoubtedly the best of the best of Vermont.  Because of the fantastic natural settings, Waterbury is a popular wedding destination. For top of the line accommodations, try Groenberg Haus, a chalet on a hilltop, complete with a stone hearth and grand piano.

10. Shelburne

Looking for luxury?  On the shores of the scenic Lake Champlain sits Shelburne – a suburb of Burlington. People come to be pampered and to splurge.  Home to the Shelburne Museum, Shelburne Farms, and the Vermont Teddy Bear Company, it’s also a family destination.

The farm boasts a one-hundred room guest house, a five storey barn, hayrides and a wonderful hiking trail. At the museum you can see live printing, blacksmithing, and weaving demonstrations.  The lake front beach is a perfect spot in the summer and several companies have boat rentals.  If it’s apple season, head over to Shelburne Orchards for the tastiest apples and cider in Vermont.

11. Manchester

Calling all shoppers!  Don’t miss out the factory outlets and other spectacular shopping opportunities in Manchester.  This is where New Yorkers, and Europeans in recent years, come for the best select and great deals.  From high end retail, charming boutiques, and all out bargains, you won’t be able to stop.

Manchester also has a fantastic cultural scene.  Enjoy concerts, galleries, theatre, history, crafts, and artisanal dining.  The village blends cultural sophistication with old-world New England charm for an incredible experience from beginning to end.

12. Grafton

Long ago, Grafton was the major stagecoach stop between Albany and the Green Mountains.  They’ve been hosting visitors for almost two centuries.  Located in the mountains, many of the original buildings have been restored to provide an authentic New England feel.

As you walk downtown you’ll feel like you’re walking in a museum.   In the winter, the snow covered mountains provide an ethereal ambiance that is unique to Grafton. The 600 residents all regularly participate in town hall meetings and work together to create a vibrant and lovely community.

13. Grand Isle

Grand Isle is about 35 square miles – almost 19 of which are water.  Located in the Islands and Farms region of the state, Grand Isle is a fishing town. The Ed Weed Fish Culture Station is located here, one of only five in the state. The oldest log cabin in New England is also here.  Hyde Log Cabin was built in the late 18th century and was home to the Hyde family for over 150 years.

The most visited state park is in Grand Isle. It’s the second largest in Vermont, with RV camping and primitive camping. The experience here is slightly different than the rest of the state, thanks to the abundance of water and the fishing culture.  That’s the perfect reason to add it to your list.  It’s another Vermont one-of-a-kind.

14. Charlotte

Synonymous with the Champlain Valley is Charlotte.  Established in the late 18th century, the growing town is primarily agricultural.  Orchards, dairies, sugar bushes, berries, honey, livestock, and grain are all flourishing economies here.  Charlotte even has a winery that received high praise from those who visit.

Mount Philo State Park (named for the almost 1000 foot peak) is another popular park with wonderful vistas, trails, and a nearby wildlife refuge.

15. Craftsbury

Picture rolling hills, picket fences, family farms, and green forests.  You’re seeing Craftsbury, Vermont. Made up of five villages with a combined population of about 1,200, the town is classic Americana.

Come for cross country skiing and snow mobiling in the winter, maple sugaring in the spring, the Antiques and Uniques Festival in July, and stunning fall foliage each autumn.

15 Best Small Towns to Visit in Vermont:

• Brattleboro

The 15 Best Towns in Vermont That We Might Just Move to

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Vermont is known for its verdant mountains, fall foliage and New England charm . Looking to peep colorful leaves , conquer peaks, shack up at a cozy B&B , sample fresh-tapped maple syrup and shop for antiques? The Green Mountain State never ceases to amaze.

Scroll on for the best towns Vermont to add to your must-visit list.

15 CHARMING SMALL TOWNS IN OREGON

1. Stowe, Vt

Ready to hit the slopes? Nestled in the northern corner of Vermont, Stowe is a ski-lovers paradise. Even when there isn’t a fresh cost of powder on the ground, Stowe lures outdoor adventurers with the promise of forested trails and 1,000-foot cliffs at Smugglers’ Notch State Park . While Moss Glen Falls offers scenic cascades and crystal-clear pools to take a dip. For more open-air excitement, we suggest a trip to The Current , a visual arts museum housed in a historic building.

Where to stay:

• Sun & Ski Inn and Suites (2 guests) : $145/night
• Green Mountain Inn (2 guests) : $159/night
• Trapp Family Lodge (2 guests) : $225/night

2. Woodstock, Vt

Woodstock perfectly encapsulated everything you’d want in a Vermont getaway. It’s a cute town packed with colonial architecture, farm-to-table restaurants and craft brewers (swing by Long Trail Brewing Company for a VT IPA). On the rustic appeal front, we’re big fans of the Billings Farm & Museum , which were once owned by Laurance and Mary French Rockefeller. Woodstock also has a thriving arts community. So you can scoop up landscape paintings, plaid textiles or hand-carved wood bowls to bring a piece of the Green Mountain State back home.

• The Village Inn of Woodstock (2 guests) : $189/night
• 506 On The River Inn (2 guests) : $269/night
• Woodstock Inn & Resort (2 guests) : $297/nigh t

3. Bennington, Vt

Some know Bennington as Vermont’s first town (it was chartered way back in 1749), others recognize it from the legendary stories of Ethan Allen and the Green Mountain Boys. Visitors can book a walking tours of the historic downtown and admire one of the best enduring examples of Victorian architecture at the Park-McCullough Historic Governor's Mansion . Another claim to fame? The Bennington Battle Monument is the tallest man-made structure in the entire state.

• The Harwood Hill (2 guests) : $106/night
• Safford Mills Inn (2 guests) : $150/night
• Four Chimneys Inn (2 guests) : $339/night

4. Shelburne, Vt

Shelburne is the unsung hero of Vermont destinations. That’s because this Burlington suburb that’s perched along the shores of Lake Champlain lives in the shadow of its big-city neighbor. But, if you ask us, there’s plenty to fill a weekend. Stop by Shelburne Farms to learn about sustainable agriculture practices, do a guided birdwatching walk and savor delicious field-to-fork fare. Don’t forget to visit the Flying Pig Bookstore and the impressive art collection at the Shelburne Museum .

• Heart of the Village Inn (2 guests) : $263/night
• Romantic B&B Suite (2 guests) : $299/night
• Hotel Vermont (2 guests) : $339/night

5. Manchester, Vt

We dare you to name a place more charming than Manchester. The enchanting downtown area is filled with cute boutiques, quaint inns, cafes and top-rated restaurants such as Ye Olde Tavern . Another major selling point? Access to stunning scenery. Insert Equinox Preservation Trust and Lye Brook Falls. History buffs won’t want to miss Hildene , the Lincoln family summer home. Be sure to stock up on fresh-picked veggies and homemade pesto at Earth Sky Time Community Farm before departing.

• The Manchester View (2 guests) : $90/night
• Aspen at Manchester (2 guests) : $125/night
• Reluctant Panther Inn & Restaurant (2 guests) : $229/night

6. Grafton, Vt

Tucked away in the mountains of southern Vermont, Grafton oozes alpine charm. It has just 619 residents (for reference, that’s a population density of 18 people per square mile). So, yea, we’re talking about a very small town. Size aside, you’ll swoon over the covered bridges, lovingly restored historic buildings—including the iconic white-steepled church and brick meetinghouse—grassy meadows and farm stands selling raw milk. The Nature Museum is certainly worthy of a visit, too.

• Grafton Inn (2 guests) : $149/night
• Luxurious Historic Home (5 guests) : $300/night
• Fully Renovated Schoolhouse (10 guests) : $171/night

7. Middlebury, Vt

Sandwiched between the Green Mountain foothills and the verdant low-lying Champlain Valley, Middlebury is a place of unparalleled beauty. This undeniably picturesque town does more than attract travelers with its visual attributes and access to a wealth of outdoor activities (hiking, biking, fishing, canoeing and skiing to name a few). It’s a burgeoning culinary hotspot with restaurants serving locally grown produce, pasture-raised meats and fresh cheese. Middlebury also houses the Henry Sheldon Museum of Vermont History .

• Courtyard Middlebury (2 guests) : $179/night
• Middlebury Inn (2 guests) : $202/night
• Inn on the Green (2 guests) : $223/night

8. Brattleboro, Vt

Dubbed “the artistic and energetic hub of southern Vermont,” Brattleboro exudes a creative sort of vibe (the word “crunchy” comes to mind) that’s often imitated but never replicated. This hippie-leaning town located just over the border from Massachusetts intrigues and delights at every turn. You’ll find breweries, distilleries, museums, galleries, shops and restaurants. There’s even a stunning Art Deco theater that screens indie films. Would you expect anything less from Brattleboro? Nope, us either.

• Inn on Putney Road Bed and Breakfast (2 guests) : $250/night
• Marlboro, Vermont Ski House (10 guests) : $465/night
• The Bears Den (12 guests) : $500/night

9. Quechee, Vt

A small town with a big list of scenic diversions, Quechee (pronounced kwee-chee ) earns our vote for a picture-perfect New England getaway. In the fall, leaf peepers flock to see the shades of red, orange and yellow. The annual Quechee Hot Air Balloon, Craft & Music Festival goes down in June. Housed in a restored 19th-century mill that overlooks a gushing waterfall, Simon Pearce's turbine-powered glassblowing studio , flagship store and farm-to-table restaurant is a splendid year-round attraction.

• Quechee Inn at Marshland Farm (2 guests) : $143/night
• Quechee Condo (6 guests) : $290/night
• Renovated House (6 guests) : $317/night

10. Montpelier, Vt

With a population of 7,900, Montpelier ranks as America’s smallest state capital. Maple syrup is big business in this twee town. Because no trip to Vermont would be complete without sampling the sweet stuff straight from the source, we highly recommend heading over to Bragg Farm Sugar House . Hungry for more local flavors? Nibble farm-fresh chèvre at Capital City Farmers Market . Definitely add a historic walking tour of downtown Montpelier to your itinerary as well.

• The Inn at Montpelier (2 guests) : $123/night
• Capitol Plaza Hotel Montpelier, Tapestry Collection by Hilton (2 guests) : $180/night
• Charming Mountain Chalet (4 guests) : $132/night

11. Chester, Vt

The past is very much alive in Chester, an endlessly charming town in the Green Mountains where history and hospitality are basically tied FTW. Houses made of locally quarried slabs dot the Stone Village Historic District. While Chester Village Historic District showcases a fascinating mix of Victorian and Federal-style buildings. You can’t walk a block without a friendly local flashing a warm smile and offering some advice about where to grab a bite or browse the best selection of antiques.

• Chester House Inn (2 guests) : $135/night
• Log Cabin (4 guests) : $400/night
• Renovated 1850’s Victorian Home (6 guests) : $243/night

12. Waitsfield, Vt

Whether you dig the great outdoors, delicious food or history (how about all of the above?), Waitsfield delivers. This heritage-rich town in the Mad River Valley is a feast for the senses. Navigates paths through timberlands, waterfalls and a beaver pond at Scrag Mountain Town Forest. Step back in time while touring the Madsonian Museum of Industrial Design . Pick up some local treats at one of the many farm stands. Then hop in the car and go for a drive along scenic Route 100.

• The Waitsfield Inn (2 guests) : $145/night
• The Swanson Inn of Vermont (2 guests) : $150/night
• Tucker Hill Inn (2 guests) : $179/night

13. Weston, Vt

Weston serves up heritage and scenic beauty on a silver platter. Haven’t heard of this tight-knit community until now? Let us fill you in on a few of the many reasons to visit. The idyllic downtown houses historic homes, general stores, eateries ( Mildred's Grill is a local favorite), antique shops, the famous Vermont Country Store and the Weston Playhouse Theatre Company . Prefer to spend time surrounded by nature? Explore the sprawling 7,466-acre Okemo State Forest.

• Mountain Cottage (2 guests) : $159/night
• Secluded Forest Hideaway (4 guests) : $110/night
• Country Home (7 guests) : $165/night

14. Dorset, Vt

For a major dose of quintessential New England magnetism, head to Dorset. It really doesn’t matter the time of year because there’s always something lovely to do. Winter calls for skiing at nearby Bromley Mountain . While Emerald Lake State Park provides ample opportunities for hiking in the spring, summer and fall. Such a unique combination of small-town ambiance and a seemingly endless array of activities makes it a terrific spot to visit (though, we wouldn’t mind living in Dorset either).

• Barrows House (2 guests) : $248/night
• Headwaters Lodge (8 guests) : $341/night
• Charming Vermont Home (11 guests) : $395/night

15. Greensboro, Vt

Set in the rugged northern corner of the state, Greensboro has a wide range of rural pursuits that appeal to travelers of all ages. Wander through Barr Hill Natural Area . On a clear day, you'll see spectacular views of the nearby mountains. When the weather warms up, Caspian Lake is a popular spot for water skiing, sailing and kayaking. Don’t leave without visiting Willey's Store to fill your tank and get some locally made products for the road.

• Highland Lodge (2 guests) : $153/night
• Lakefront Cottage (6 guests) : $250/night
• Yellow Farmhouse (7 guests) : $240/night

15 CHARMING SMALL TOWNS IN GEORGIA

Freelance PureWow Editor

15 Charming Small Towns in Vermont Not to Miss

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Exploring small towns is one of the best things to do in VT . Filled with breathtaking green mountains, rich history, and some interesting foods (maple creemee, anyone?), Vermont is one place that should be at the top of your travel list–and it is chock full of cute small towns!

I lived in Vermont for 15 years and I’ve explored every single town on this list. If you’re in search of small town charm, these are the places to go.

To help you plan your next trip to the home of Ben & Jerry’s, I’ve compiled a list of the top must-see charming small towns in Vermont that you won’t want to miss!

Table of Contents

Most Charming Small Towns in Vermont

Located in northern Vermont near Burlington , Williston is known for being a charming suburb. Historically, Williston was originally farmland but has become a bustling place to live since. It’s an effortless place to get to since it’s located near I-89 and can be a suitable place to base yourself if you want to explore Burlington.

This charming VT town is filled with many outdoor areas to explore, including Lake Champlain, Lake Iroquois, and the Green Mountains, which are impossible to miss. There are year-round outdoor activities in Williston, which makes it an adventure lover’s dream. Pass time hiking, swimming, kayaking, snowshoeing, and more in one of the most beautiful towns in Vermont. 

If you fancy a bite to eat, be sure to stop by the Vermont Tap House , a favorite among locals. They’re most well-known for delicious wood-fired pizza and serve up 36 different craft brews, and source most of their ingredients from local farmers. Their late-night hours make it the perfect place to grab a delicious meal no matter the time!

Next up: Dorset! This charming small town in Vermont is located in the southern part of the state in Bennington County. With an average population of 200, this is the perfect place to get acquainted with locals and experience real Vermont small-town life. 

Dorset Vermont is most well known for being home to the Dorset Marble Quarry, a popular cliff-jumping location among locals. It’s also historically significant to the United States, as it was the country’s first-ever marble quarry! It’s located right off Route 30 and is a great place to cool off during a hot day.

Emerald Lake State Park is also in Dorset, the perfect place to go canoeing or kayaking. Plus, there are quite a few hiking trails here, so you can go out and explore the outdoors. When visiting Dorset, opt to stay in a bed and breakfast to support a local family and have a unique experience in this charming town.

Another charming town to visit in southern Vermont is Grafton! It’s genuinely one of the prettiest places in all of New England , located right in the Green Mountains. 

There are tons of fun outdoor activities to partake in while visiting Grafton. The most popular spot to visit is the Grafton Ponds Outdoor Center. This is a great place to go biking, hiking, snowshoeing, and even cross-country skiing.

One spot that can’t be missed is the Phelps Barn Pub , which offers weekly specials for burgers and beers. Locals and tourists alike agree that it’s one of the best burgers in the world. It’s located in the lovely Grafton Inn, so if you’re looking for cute places to stay in Grafton that have a great onsite restaurant, this is it!

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This list of charming Vermont towns would not be complete without at least mentioning Woodstock. Known as being one of the most picturesque small towns in the whole state, Woodstock can not be missed during a trip to the Green Mountain state.

If you’re lucky enough to be visiting Woodstock during winter, you absolutely must head to Saskadena Six. While it’s technically located in South Pomfret, it’s incredibly close to Woodstock and is a top spot for skiing and snowboarding . It has trails for all levels, so even if you’re entirely new to the outdoor sports scene, you’ll be able to fit right in. 

Some other popular spots to visit in Woodstock include the Billings Farm and Museum (a must-visit to learn about 19th-century New England life), the Marsh-Billings-Rockefeller National Historical Park, and the Middle Bridge. When you’re ready to take a break from all the activities, be sure to stop by the Mountain Creamery for a bite to eat!

If you’re looking for the best small towns to visit in Vermont, Manchester will be on that list every time. There are so many cute small town things to do in Manchester, like searching through The Northshire Bookstore , one of the top independent bookstores in New England , for all kinds of great VT souvenirs, including what may become your new favorite book.

Visit Hildene, the historic estate of the only Lincoln child who survived to adulthood, and hike some of the top Manchester trails to really immerse yourself in the beauty of this area of Vermont. There are some great options for restaurants in Manchester , too, and if you’re looking for great Manchester hotels , check out The Kimpton Taconic Hotel in historic Manchester Village for the perfect blend of Vermont rustic elegance!

Located in southern Vermont’s Windsor County, Chester is an absolute must-visit charming town, especially in the summer or winter because of all the fun recreational activities available.

There are tons of winter sports areas near Chester, including Okemo Mountain Resort, Bromley Mountain, and Stratton Mountain Resort. All are equally fun! Are you not into outdoor sports? Luckily, Chester is also home to lots of great places to shop. Some of Chester’s top stores include Blair Books, Stone House Kettle Corn Company, and Smokeshire Design.

If you have more time while visiting Chester, be sure to stop by Endless Creations Pottery Studio . This fun art studio is excellent for all ages. They offer classes on wood burning, pottery, jewelry, and more. Of course, their most popular activity is pottery painting! What’s even better is you don’t have to make a reservation; they accept drop-ins!

Brattleboro

Brattleboro is such a cute town in Vermont, it has pretty much all the things people think of when they come to visit and experience Vermont charm: you’ve got a cute downtown, interesting museums, art galleries, indie bookstores, great restaurants and places to stay, and fun festivals that are quirky and unique, like their annual Strolling of the Heifers .

This fun event includes an actual parade of adorable baby cows strolling along adorned with flower garlands and crowns, meant to celebrate the connection between farm and community. Brattleboro is also home to the picturesque Creamery Covered Bridge ; as if you needed another reason to visit this idyllic VT town!

Waitsfield is a town near Montpelier that’s extraordinarily picturesque and offers impressive scenic views of the surrounding area. While the most popular time to visit Waitsfield is during the winter because of its proximity to the Mad River Glen Ski Area, it’s gorgeous any time of year.

Wondering what to do in Waitsfield? Be sure to check out Hartshorn Organic Farm . Not only are there farm tours available to visitors, but there are also food festivals, workshops, and more. You’ll even be able to learn all about the maple syrup process by visiting their maple sugar house !

If you’re wondering where to stay, opt to reserve accommodations at The Round Barn ! This beautiful bed and breakfast is situated on 245 acres of land and is a great place to explore around. There are ponds, gardens, and of course, areas to go hiking and snowshoeing.  The Round Barn is a great place to stay for family and couples alike.

Beautiful Bennington is one of those quaint Vermont towns that might just make you want to give up big city life for small town Vermont living! Not only can you find the usual Vermont charm with great farm to table restaurants , scenic hiking trails, cute shops, and historic monuments, but Bennington is also home to The Apple Barn , one of the cutest little country bakeshops in all of New England.

Swing by the Apple Barn for some of their famous apple cider donuts and a jug of their apple cider and take home some of that Vermont fall flavor. Oh, and be on the lookout for the blue moose, you’ll see what I mean! There’s plenty to see and do in beautiful Bennington , so put it on the list of must visit small towns in Vermont.

Located right on Lake Champlain, Shelburne is one of the most-visited charming towns in Vermont, and for a good reason. While it’s one of Burlington’s suburbs, it’s still filled with tons of fun activities for all ages.

The top place to visit here is Shelburne Farms. They host a variety of fun activities and workshops to teach visitors all about how farm-to-table works! Plus, they offer a variety of delicious maple syrup and Vermont cheeses.

To learn more about Shelburne, be sure to stop by the Shelburne Museum . It was founded in the mid-20th century and includes exhibits covering both art and design between 39 different buildings. You could easily spend a whole day exploring here! If you find that you have more free time in Shelburne, some other great places to visit include the Vermont Teddy Bear Factory (perfect for families!), the Shelburne Vineyard, and Fiddlehead Brewing Company.

Rutland is such a cool Vermont town to visit, with a unique claim to fame: it is home to the oldest continuously published newspaper in Vermont, The Rutland Daily Herald. Don’t worry, if you’re not pulled in from its press prowess, there’s plenty more! This cute little VT town is also home to an adorable downtown with a great art scene , including gorgeous murals on several buildings downtown and a Sculpture Stroll to follow, as well.

There’s also great hiking nearby and a beautiful lake to enjoy in the warmer months, so there’s plenty of that gorgeous Vermont eye candy to see and explore. You’ll also find a nice little restaurant selection in this cute VT town, so come to Rutland expecting to find just about all the Vermont charm you could possibly want.

Stowe is yet another incredibly charming and picturesque Vermont town located in the northern part of the state. It’s right next to the highest mountain peak in the whole of Vermont, Mount Mansfield, which is a popular destination for tourists.

This town is an outdoor lover’s dream, mostly because it’s where Smuggler’s Notch State Park is located. This is a popular spot to go for skiing and snowboarding in the winter, but also camping, hiking , and more in the summer . It’s enjoyable for all ages, with great restaurants and hotels , too.

While this list is filled with tons of great places to visit in Vermont filled with charm, Stowe is one place you surely can’t miss . The famous von Trapp family (yes, from The Sound of Music ) moved to Stowe to escape Austria during the Nazi era. Now it’s home to the Trapp Family Lodge, which is filled with a rich history.

Wilmington is an incredibly charming town located only a half hour away from Bennington. This village is gorgeous, and while it faced a lot of devastation after Hurricane Irene, it has had a comeback in the past few years.

The perfect way to spend the day is by exploring the downtown area. There are tons of great restaurants in the downtown area, especially Dot’s, a fun diner that offers delicious and affordable eats. Visiting over the weekend? You’re in luck! There’s a great flea market held in Wilmington with local vendors selling a wide variety of souvenirs, local foods, crafts, and more.

If you’re more of an outdoor enthusiast, then be sure to check out some of the local hiking trails . Popular ones include the Valley Trail, Hogback Mountain Trails, and the Hoot, Toot, and Whistle Trail. Some of these are easier than others, so make sure you do some quick research online before choosing the perfect hike for you! Each one offers rewarding views that you won’t want to miss.

This cute little college town is definitely one of the prettiest towns in Vermont, and one with plenty to do, too! With a beautiful downtown, a classic white steepled church, lovely, well-kept parks and green spaces, and even a ski area in town limits, Middlebury is a very charming Vermont town to visit!

In the warmer weather months, hop on a bike or head out on foot to walk part of the TAM or Trail Around Middlebury, a 16 mile scenic stroll all around this cute VT town. In the colder months, head out to ski or snowboard at the Middlebury Snowbowl . Indoors you’ll find shopping, restaurants, theatre, and more, so Middlebury is a Vermont town with something for everyone!

Last but not least is Weston! This small but charming Vermont town is the perfect place to base yourself to explore the rest of the breathtaking and scenic Green Mountain National Forest.

Theatre fans are in luck because Weston is home to The Weston Playhouse , the oldest theatre company in the whole state. The majority of shows and musicals are on during the summer and are always exceptionally well produced. Plus, The Weston Playhouse has even been nationally-recognized by Playbill , The New York Times , and The Wall Street Journal .

For a bite to eat, be sure to head to some local favorites, including the Village Green Gallery Coffeebar, The Vermont Country Store, or the Moose Lounge. Each is equally amazing and serves up delicious eats!

Whether you plan on visiting Vermont for a weekend, a road trip , or a week-long getaway, you’ll have the time of your life. You might even be able to visit more than one of the towns on this list during one trip if you plan your time wisely!

Now, what are you waiting for? Start planning your next trip to one of Vermont’s cutest towns!

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The 11 Best Small Towns in Vermont

Vermont may be small and sparsely populated (it’s the second smallest state by population), but its people have a sense of pride that rivals the famed Texas Pride, and for good reason. This state is arguably the most stunning of the Northeastern states, and its distinct seasons offer visitors and locals an abundance of seasonal activities and a wealth of year-round natural beauty. While many visitors stick to Montpelier (the nation's smallest state capital) or Burlington , the true gems of this state lie in its tiny, hidden towns.

This endearing village is smack dab in the middle of the Mad River Valley, a portion of Vermont that is known for its incredible swimming holes, hikes, ski areas, and year-round beauty. In addition to its access to outdoor recreation, Warren has a fun ski town vibe without the unsightly sprawl and trendiness of a ski resort. Instead, you’ll find a handful of local pubs, the Warren Store, and a small number of delightful inns, restaurants, galleries, and shops. 

Historic, flat-roofed buildings line Bristol's wide main street, bringing to mind a New England version of an old western town. Bristol’s charm lies in its nod to history (recycling is picked up by horse-drawn wagon), and its delightful modern-day amenities, like art galleries, breweries, restaurants, and the town's country store. Beyond the downtown scene, you’ll find rolling hills and stunning valley views.

Fun fact: Bristol's tradition of holding summer concerts on the village green dates back to the Civil War. 

Just a few miles from the Quebec border, Newport is nestled along the shore of Lake Memphremagog, a freshwater lake that is shared with Canada (in fact, one can even hop on a boat and sail into Canada for an afternoon!). On the Newport side, you’ll find a waterfront boardwalk, summer concerts, fine dining experiences, and nearby hikes. In the winter, enjoy skiing, snowshoeing, snowmobiling, and a slew of other seasonal sports.

Brattleboro

All the way at the other end of the state on the Massachusetts border, Brattleboro quietly rambles along the banks of the Connecticut River. This quirky town is known for its crunchy food and arts scene, as well as its laid-back, chill vibe. After window shopping downtown, snag a coveted seat at TJ Buckley’s , where you’ll find yourself eating fresh, local food from a chef who creates a menu according to whatever is in season. Planning a visit during the beginning of June? Be sure to catch the annual Strolling of the Heifers (which is exactly what it sounds like: a parade of cows through Brattleboro).

Most visitors to this area are in search of Stowe , a ski town a bit further up Route 100. While Stowe has reason to bring throngs of tourists (especially during its winter season, for its ski resort of the same name), Waterbury is, in its own right, a must-visit small Vermont town. Here you’ll find a much more relaxed, tiny downtown that features world-class dining and drinks. Prohibition Pig is a local favorite where you’ll enjoy live music, smoked meats, and a locavore menu, as well as over 20 craft beers on tap.

Wallingford

Courtesy of Town of Wallingford, VT

This dreamy town is the perfect resting place if you’re aching for a low-key, rural vacation. The quaint village offers food, arts, museums, and plenty of outdoor recreation. With Rutland nearby, you’ll also have access to shopping and dining, as well as a fun nightlife scene. If you’re interested in camping, Emerald Lake State Park is a 20-minute drive south from Wallingford. Here you’ll find a lake that lives up to its name (it’s truly emerald), while a drive up into the wooded hillside will give you secluded camping spots.

Chad Ehlers / Getty Images

Chelsea is not your typical tourist destination. The town gives visitors a feel for how Vermonters truly live, without the hustle of playing to tourists. It also doesn’t hurt that it’s nestled in a gorgeous, albeit sleepy knoll. Every Friday all summer long, you’ll find a bustling farmer’s market, with provisions from many of Chelsea’s local farms (such as Free Verse Farm , an herbal farm with a campground that looks out over the Chelsea valley). There’s also a lovely art gallery, local-food cafe, and a small yoga studio. Downtown’s Chicken Wiggle Farm supplies the town with eggs, meat, and seasonal produce, while farm-curious visitors can enjoy a farm stay at Longest Acres Farm .

Ellen Rooney / robertharding / Getty Images 

The first time you drive through Weston, you might feel as if you’re on a movie set. This tiny town’s charm is evident in its historic homes and buildings, small galleries and museums, delightful stores and restaurants, and the country store of all country stores, the Vermont Country Store . Although this town has a rustic appeal regardless of the time of year, December truly delivers. Weston’s annual town-wide Christmas celebration features horse-drawn carriage rides, carolers, and a town tree lighting.

Included on nearly every list of beloved Vermont towns, scenic Grafton is notable not only for its historic covered bridges and stately Grafton Inn , but also for the fact that with only a year-round population of just over 600 people, Grafton manages to retain a certain relevance. The town is also home to Grafton Village Cheese Co. , where one can sample naturally-aged, handmade variations of everything from cheddar to gouda. Stay at the historic Grafton Inn, one of the oldest operating hotels in the U.S., which dates back to 1801.

White River Junction

Most visitors to this region of Vermont are here for Woodstock and just down the road from that lively town is the equally lovely, albeit much smaller and less touristy, White River Junction. This town has recently gone through a bit of a revival—the historic downtown area is also home to a train station, and of course the typical cafes, restaurants, and small shops. A swim in the White River is a must if you are visiting during Vermont’s intensely short but absolutely brilliant summer season. Just ask a local where their favorite swimming hole is, and you’ll be treated to one of the best summer pastimes of Vermont.

Similar in style to Bristol, Vergennes is another flat-front, wide main street type of town, with tiny shops, galleries, and restaurants all in a row. Dating back to 1788, Vergennes was Vermont’s very first city. Although it has grown a bit in size, it still remains small, and many of its oldest buildings are still in working order (such as the still-working opera house, built in 1897, or the Stevens House, a staple since 1793). Dine at the Black Sheep Bistro for a delicious take on Vermont’s famed farm-to-table style restaurants. Located on the banks of the Otter Creek, Vergennes is also close to Burlington, Lake Champlain, hikes, and a myriad of opportunities to enjoy the unparalleled outdoor beauty of Vermont.

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Craft beer, localvore life, pristine nature: here's the best of Vermont

Aug 24, 2021 • 6 min read

Stowe is one of Vermont's many scenic towns, no matter the season © DonLand / Shutterstock

Farmer's markets, localvore restaurants, arts and crafts, rural charm, pristine nature and a wealth of history – whatever you’re seeking,  Vermont has it. 

Tucked between six-million-acre Adirondack Park, New Hampshire and the Atlantic Coast, the Green Mountain State is friendly, welcoming and teeming with opportunities to explore in all seasons. Whether you splash around on the shores of one the state's more than 800 lakes, pick ripe apples from the tree or sample maple syrup as it comes out of the boiler, the smallest state capital in the US is ready for adventure. 

Everything feels accessible in Vermont, and it’s easy to put together an itinerary that incorporates so many different kinds of outdoor activities in one day. Whether you're visiting for  Open Studio Weekend , when Vermont’s artists welcome visitors to the spaces where they create, or you want to follow the state’s beer or spirits trail, here’s our list of the best places to visit in Vermont. 

Church Street Marketplace, Burlington

In the heart of Burlington , Vermont’s biggest city, is Church Street , a pedestrian mall lined with charming boutiques, superb restaurants, and of course the mandatory Ben & Jerry's. In summer, musicians and street performers delight visitors, while food cart vendors have got delicious local snacks. Shop ‘til you drop and use Church Street as a launchpad for exploring the Queen City. Don't pass up a visit to the calming Lake Champlain shore, only a few blocks away. 

With 7500 residents, Montpelier is the US's smallest state capital by population. This city's focal point is the monumental 1859 Vermont State House, the state's gold-domed Greek Revival capitol. Take some time to visit the landmark's excellent art collection which has decorative and fine art exhibits, some from its permanent collection, and some traveling. Next door at the Vermont History Museum , exhibits recount the state's early history, highlighting Ethan Allen's 18th-century adventures. Meander through downtown Montpelier for bakeries, restaurants, shops and more before heading to Hubbard Park's  observation tower for some of the best views of the capital.  

Vermont’s 7 best hiking trails

Surrounded by rolling hills and stately horse farms, Woodstock is steeped in history. In 1786, it was a center of commerce, home to both industry and art, and one of Vermont’s largest and wealthiest towns. Relics from that golden era still remain as the town's  Woodstock Inn & Resort attracts city-dwellers to the country for a high-end weekend getaway.  

Visit the circa 1880 pink sandstone Norman Williams Public Library , or Billings Farm & Museum , a functioning dairy farm with an 1890 farmhouse and exhibits that depict farm life like it used to be. 

Nearby, a web of trails in Marsh-Billings-Rockefeller National Historical Park (the state’s first national park) invites walkers and nature lovers to explore. Take a dip or drop a line in the Ottauquechee River. It flows through the center of town and under the area's three historic covered bridges.

Most of the year, the three Villages that comprise Tunbridge, Vermont are pretty quiet. A few visitors wander to admire their five covered bridges, But in mid-September, Tunbridge comes alive. Vermont has many agricultural fairs, but the Tunbridge World’s Fair , which has taken place in Tunbridge continuously since 1867, is the most famous.

Held in mid-September, the fair features farming and agricultural demonstrations and contests, both modern and historical, as well as arm wrestling, ox pulls and displays of the biggest and best produce and pies Vermonters can grow or make. Rides, contra dancing and a fantastic beer garden round out the offerings. But it’s the pig race that steals the show. 

Just off of Mount Mansfield (Vermont's highest peak), Stowe is a classic New England town packed with local commerce and surrounded by natural beauty and landmarked by the historic white spires of Community Church. 

For the best of the area's nature trails, hop on a mountain bike for a tour of Cady Hill before rewarding yourself with a fresh-from-the-farm lunch at the Sunday farmer's market. Stay on the bike to glide along Stowe’s riverside rec path and route to one of the town’s many swimming holes. Stowe is famous for its superb skiing, both alpine and Nordic. Even if it’s not ski season,  Vermont’s Ski History Museum brings skiing alive through its collections of gear and artifacts from ski seasons past. 

Drive the Mt. Mansfield Toll Road or hike the Long Trail to the summit of Mt. Mansfield for sweeping views of New England. Catch the Vermont Symphony Orchestra for a concert at Trapp Family Lodge ; the stunning sunset and superb music will make it unforgettable. 

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Lake Willoughby, Northeast Kingdom

Five miles long and up to 320ft deep, Lake Willoughby is a glacially-formed lake that’s a National Natural Landmark. Carved deep into Vermont’s Northeast Kingdom, the lake lies between Mt. Pisgah and Mt. Hor, which together form the fjord-like Willoughby Gap. 

In the late 1800s, steamboats paraded visitors around the lake. Now, public beaches at the north and south ends provide summer fun for swimmers and paddlers. Fishermen cast a line here for lake and rainbow trout, landlocked Atlantic salmon and native round whitefish. 

At least 100 bird species populate this waterway: thrushes, warblers, hummingbirds, jays, finches, loons, herons, gulls and the rare peregrine falcon, which nests in the cliffs of Mt. Pisgah and Mt. Hor. 

Smuggler’s Notch

During the War of 1812, the twisty, windy, cliff-lined, boulder-strewn mountain horse path between Underhill and Stowe was the mainline for supplies going to and coming from Canada. It played a similar role for booze during prohibition. And it was also part of the Underground Railroad. Now, a narrow, snaking road replaces the historic path through Mt. Mansfield State Forest. 

Drive it and explore the boulder field at the top where smugglers hid, and where now you’ll see rock climbers and boulderers ascending. Though the Notch is closed in winter, it’s just as busy with skiers, snowshoers, sledders and ice climbers. 

Lake Champlain

The sixth-largest lake in the United States, Lake Champlain , forms the western border of Vermont. At times, it's been a Revolutionary War battleground, a supplier of ships in the War of 1812, a "line” in the Underground Railroad and home to the mythical monster Vermonters affectionately call “ champ .” 

At 125 miles long and nearly 15 miles wide, the freshwater lake is sprinkled with motorboats, paddle boats and sailboats in the summer. Put in at any of the boat launches, marinas or beaches, and you could follow the lake north to Quebec via the Richlieu and St. Lawrence Rivers, or south to the Hudson River and Manhattan. 

Take a ferry to New York, including the historic Ticonderoga cable ferry (currently closed due to the COVID-19 pandemic, check their website for updates) or splash around on one of the lake’s many public beaches.

Explore the Champlain Islands, north of Burlington, and sample from the region’s best wineries, or pick apples in the Lake Shore’s fertile groves. Beneath its sometimes glassy, sometimes turbulent surface lies 300 historic shipwrecks. Dive them or learn about them at  Lake Champlain Maritime Museum . Lake Champlain is also one of the top bass fishing lakes in North America. 

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• 10 Most Beautiful Small Towns In Vermont You Should Visit

As the days begin to get shorter, and the air once more becomes crisp, the state of  Vermont enters into one of its most popular tourist seasons, autumn. However, no matter when visitors play a trip to Vermont, tourists here will be astounded by all the beautiful towns awash with natural and historical appeal. While there are many American towns for which the same could be said, Vermont has an incredible ability to intertwine its small town history with its natural beauty, making the towns in this state special. However, with so many options, it can become challenging to choose where to visit. But have no fear! We have compiled a list of our favorite beautiful Vermont small towns that a visit to will guarantee a tranquil immersion into Vermont’s stunning aesthetic.

Nothing is more relaxing than experiencing a beautiful sunrise over the autumnal foliage-covered foothills of the Adirondack Mountains, particularly from the balcony of a luxury hotel. It is this type of view that a stay in  Manchester , Vermont, offers, along with a more curated local beauty that includes the many historic buildings found throughout Manchester’s townsite. Some of the prettiest historic buildings in Manchester are the old Bennington County Courthouse and the restored Equinox Hotel, now known as the Equinox Resort & Spa, a lovely, if somewhat pricey, place to stay. Other great accommodation options include the Kimpton Taconic Hotel, The Inn at Manchester, and Ormsby Hill.

Approximately 10 miles north of Manchester, you will find Emerald Lake State Park. If you are a hiker, this park is definitely for you. It has miles of trails around its namesake central feature, Emerald Lake, which is particularly pretty during the fall season. A must-see site in this region is the Georgian Revival home of Hildene Mansion, the estate owned and lived at by Robert Lincoln, the son of Abraham Lincoln. This property offers hiking and biking trails, with the historical mansion open to the public for tours.

With beautifully preserved and restored heritage sites, the village of Middlebury, Vermont, founded in 1761, is a highlight of central Vermont. Spend part of your visit exploring the gorgeous regional historic buildings, such as the Emma Willard House and the Thaddeus Chapman House, both along Vermont Route 30, and the Henry Sheldon Museum of Vermont History at number 1 Park Street. If you are looking to slow down for a day but still want to explore the beauty that surrounds Middlebury, booking a Vermont Wine Tasting Tour out of Middlebury will allow you both to taste local wine and witness Vermont in all its glory. Popular local wineries on many tasting tours include Lincoln Peak Vineyard and Winery, Neshobe River Winery, and Charlotte Village Winery.

Westminster

Not to be confused with the City of Westminster borough in  London , England, the town of Westminster, Vermont, which owes its name to British society, is the oldest in the state, and as such, the local history spans back centuries. Much of historic Westminster has been preserved, including the Bradley Law Office along US Route 5, which dates back to 1810. The Westminster Terrace Historic District is also a great place to take in the historic visual delights of Westminster, with many landmark buildings standing in the shadows of the same trees planted as saplings when these buildings were built. One cannot help but marvel at this profound example of the cohesion of natural and human-made beauty. After exploring historic Westminster, spend some time hiking in the many local forests and parks, including Westminster Town Forest, Fanny Mason Forest, and Bellows Falls Village Forest, each offering a range of hikes and viewpoints.

Looking for a town that combines American history and modern elegance? If so, Bennington, Vermont, is for you. Best known as the site of the Bennington Battle of 1777 during the Saratoga Campaign of the Revolutionary War, today, the soldiers lost in this battle are commemorated at the Bennington Battle Memorial, where a 93-meter obelisk has stood for nearly a century, the tallest man-built structure in all of Vermont. 

While Bennington has a historic downtown area, some of the oldest and most visually appealing buildings fall beyond the town line. These include the Colonel Nathaniel Brush Home, built in 1775, the Walloomsac Inn, built in 1771, and the Jedidiah Dewey House, built in 1763, each stunning in their own right. For those interested in literature, the Robert Frost Stone House Museum is also in Bennington and open to visitors. Just south of Bennington, you will find the One World Conservation Center, a 96 acre property devoted to preserving and highlighting the magnificence of this region's natural meadowlands and wetlands.

Welcome to Waitsfield, home to Vermont's best hiking, hunting, and fishing. Outside of Waitsfield, you will find some superb local hiking trails, such as those in the Roxbury State Forest, as well as the Warren Falls Trail and Moretown Falls Trail, each popular amongst locals and visitors alike, and which take hikers up close to experience the beauty of these two sets of waterfalls. If you have a way to get out of town a little farther, paying a visit to Camel's Hump State Park and Mount Mansfield State Forest will not be a regret, with these parks’s trails being particularly spectacular after the leaves change in the fall. 

Despite all the local natural beauty in and around Waitsfield, the Waitsfield Village Historic District is this town’s true star. It includes buildings like the General Wait House, the oldest frame house in Waitsfield, first built in 1793. During peak tourist season, there are in-person walking tours of this district during which you can revel in the historic and natural ambiance of Waitsfield.

The small Vermont community of Warren has an approximate population of just under 2,000 residents. It is surrounded by mountains and sits in the Mad River Valley. For a gorgeous aerial view of Warren, take one of the various routes to the top of Mount Ellen, of which Jerusalem Trail, Long Trail from Lincoln Gap, and Long Trail from the Appalachian Gap are options. From the highest point of these trails, you will have an unparalleled view of the surrounding landscape, mountains, and Warren itself. This view is breathtaking in the fall season, making the trek up well worth it. Other great hikes in this beautiful region include Sunset Ledge Trail and Blueberry Lake Trail, with Warren Falls Trail taking hikers to the spectacular  Warren Falls  themselves.

Ranked amongst the  friendliest towns in Vermont , the village of Grafton, Vermont, is renowned for its abundance of well-preserved historical buildings. With a large historic district, Grafton marries nature and human infrastructure to perfection, each complimenting the other. Some of the oldest buildings in Grafton include the Enos Lovell House, dating to 1795, the Butterfield House (turned library), dating to the early 1800s, the Congregational Church, dating to 1834, and the Grafton Inn, which used to be a rural stagecoach hotel, and dates to 1801. Outside of town, there are a multitude of picturesque hiking options, some of the most popular trails including the Athens Dome Trail and the many trails that depart from Grafton’s Outdoor Center. After a long day of hiking, you will want to return to a relaxing environment, with Inn Victoria and Rowell’s Inn, located just outside of town, and the historic Grafton Inn, in the center of town, being lovely options.

Once the mayoral district of current Vermont Senator Bernie Sanders, Sanders was the mayor of Burlington for eight years. In Burlington’s charming historic downtown, there are some fabulous markets, including the Church Street Marketplace, which has street performers, artisan crafts, and a range of events, including the New Year’s First Night Celebration and the Burlington Discover Jazz Festival. It is these festivals and community events that have created, in Burlington, an aesthetic beyond the physical that creates a beautiful atmosphere in Burlington. Around this community, you will find picturesque natural landscapes, with the Shelburne Pond Natural Area, Charlotte Park and Wildlife Refuge, and Charlotte Town Beach being some of the loveliest green spaces in and around town. If you are a history lover, a visit to Ethan Allen Tower and Ethan Allen Homestead Museum and Historic Site will enthrall you, visually and intellectually.

Home to the Waterbury Village Historic District, Waterbury, Vermont, is a history lover’s paradise. Visitors will want to visit some of the stunning local historic buildings, including the United Church of Christ, built in 1824, the Dr. Henry Janes House, home to Civil War surgeon Dr. Henry Janes, and now a public library per Dr. Janes’s will. Get to know the regional beauty around Waterbury by exploring the stunning green spaces, inside and outside of Waterbury, such as Little River State Park, CC Putnam State Forest, and Camel's Hump Forest Reserve. Cap your visit by staying at a converted historical building, such as the Old Stagecoach Inn, or slow down at one of the Bed and Breakfasts just outside of town, where you can enjoy the natural beauty of Vermont any time of year.

Brattleboro

Named for Major-General William Brattle, who never visited his namesake town once,  Brattleboro, Vermont , is one of the oldest towns in the state. Brattleboro was one of Vermont's first non-indigenous permanent communities, founded in 1753. In its early years, this town was populated by mills and factory facilities, and collectively, it was not a visually appealing community. However, in the past half-century, Brattleboro has transformed into a visually appealing town in which historical buildings have been restored and repurposed, while there has also been a range of natural species re-introduced to this local.

Brattleboro is home to the largest organ factory in the United States, run by the Vermont Estey Company. It is no surprise then that Brattleboro has an Estey Organ Museum. This museum displays America’s gorgeous organ history, a visual timeline with samples of beautifully restored instruments going back to the beginning. If you are looking for some outdoor family fun in a scenic and pretty local, visit Pliny Park or Brattleboro Common. If you want a more strenuous activity, the trails at Wantastiquet Mountain Natural Area, notably the Wantastiquet Mountain Summit Trail, are popular and offer stunning views.

The Take Home

Vermont is filled with immense natural beauty that fills this entire state and surrounds most small towns in Vermont. From historic city centers, beautiful green spaces, and luxury accommodations, each of these discussed towns, and many others, guarantees a memorable visit to Vermont. No matter which small town you choose to visit, you need not sacrifice history for nature or vice versa, there are more than enough towns to enjoy where these things go hand in hand and produce a unique beauty all of Vermont’s own.

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8 Adorable Towns for Your Next Vermont Getaway

New England's siren call sings louder than ever in fall and winter. With brilliant foliage, romantic B&Bs, panoramic mountain views, and historic covered bridges, these Vermont towns exemplify everything the pastoral region has to offer. Have a free weekend this season? Give the Green Mountain towns a go.

A Brooklyn-based writer and editor, Chelsea's work has appeared in Matador Network, The Huffington Post, the TripAdvisor blog, and more. When not planning her next trip, you'll usually find her drinking way too much iced coffee (always iced—she’s from New England) or bingeing a Netflix original series.

See recent posts by Chelsea Stuart

With a thriving art scene, rich historical background, and plenty of locavore-pleasing restaurants, rustic Woodstock has no problem attracting visitors. Check in at the Woodstock Inn & Resort , a horseshoe-shaped colonial lodge built in 1969 by none other than Laurance Rockefeller. The hotel is heavy-handed when it comes to New England charm, featuring huge stone fireplaces, Audubon prints (from Rockefeller's personal collection), and a vintage game room decked out in plaid Vermont Flannel textiles. Venture 10 minutes from town and you’ll happen upon Long Trail Brewing Co ., just one of VT's numerous craft brewers. Inspired by Munich’s Hofbräu House, the riverside pub and restaurant has plenty to offer in the way of handcrafted beer and industrial design. If you’re in need of an early morning meal before you get to drinking, drop by Mon Vert Cafe in Woodstock Village. The cozy coffee shop takes pride in its organic, locally-sourced menu serving up Vermont apple cider mimosas, butterbeer lattes, classic egg sandwiches, and a whole lot more.

Explore More: See hotel details | See all Woodstock, VT hotels

Tucked away in the northernmost reaches of Vermont—just an hour or so from the border of Quebec, Canada—Stowe is known for its ski slopes. But whether your visit sees snow on the ground or not, it’s worth spending an afternoon at Smugglers’ Notch State Park , a narrow pass of 1,000-foot cliffs that traverses the Green Mountains. Take in more of the scenic town with a trip to the West Branch Gallery & Sculpture Park . The indoor/outdoor art space displays all types of media—photography, paintings, sculptures—from mid-career artists. When it comes time to rest, consider bedding down at one of Stowe’s most modern stays. Contrary to popular belief, Vermont isn’t all quaint B&Bs—just look to Field Guide for a taste of the state’s design-led boutiques. Thirty guest rooms range from apartment-like suites to standalone cottages, mixing woodsy decor (think papier-mâché taxidermy and bird print wallpaper) with plush amenities like kimono robes and Lather bath products.

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Explore More: See hotel details | See all Stowe, VT hotels

If you make the trip to Vermont—the maple syrup capital of the United States—and you don’t leave with a stash of the homemade treat, you’re doing something seriously wrong. To remedy this, start your Montpelier stay with a stop by Bragg Farm Sugar House , a family-run business that’s taught eight generations the secret to crafting perfect maple kettle corn, cookies, and candies. From there, it’s over to stylish creperie, The Skinny Pancake , to further indulge with sweet and savory options like the Pure and Simple, with Cabot butter, granulated sugar, local syrup, and the Sass-Squash, with butternut squash, VT chèvre and apples, and organic spinach. Before you’re forced to leave the foothills of the Green Mountains, fit in one last food-fueled event. Swing by the Capital City Farmer’s Market so you can pick up farm-fresh produce that supports local growers.

One look at Grafton’s historic covered bridges, romantic country inns, family-run farmsteads, and sheep-dotted pastures, and you’ll realize that the village is a representation of small town New England at its finest. Nestled in Vermont’s Green Mountains, the charming town is home to less than 600 year-round residents who regularly convene for Town Meetings (see Gilmore Girls ’ Stars Hollow, for reference). Tuck your things away at Main Street’s circa-1801 Grafton Inn —right next door to the village’s iconic white steepled church—and make a beeline for Grafton Village Cheese Co. We'd argue that there's no better way to spend an afternoon than nibbling on naturally-aged, handmade variations (there’s more than 80) like truffle cheddar, 18-month emmentaler, and sheep gouda while you watch the company’s cheesemakers in action.

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With Green Mountain foothills to the east, and the rolling pastures of Champlain Valley to the West, Middlebury makes itself at home in one of Vermont’s most scenic regions. The less-than-10,000-person town is perhaps best known for its eponymous college, but even if your pursuits are less than academic, you’ll find plenty on offer. Drop your bags at the Middlebury Inn , a stately, four-building brick stay that’s been on the town green since 1827. It's also home to Morgan's Tavern , where Chef John Hessler serves up locally-sourced meals in collaboration with small farmers, artisan cheese makers, and specialty meat suppliers. If you’re still thirsty post-meal, swing by Otter Creek Brewing’s state-of-the-art brewhouse and pub. Along with hoppy drafts, you may even catch a live concert from local VT musicians.

Hugging the shores of Lake Champlain, Shelburne is one of Vermont’s most underrated destinations. The 7,000-resident Burlington suburb may be dwarfed by its northern neighbor, but there’s plenty of reason to stop by. Check in at the Heart of the Village Inn , a Victorian-style B&B that marries antique furnishings with modern amenities. In the area, guests can admire both the Green Mountains (to the east), and the Adirondacks (to the west). For a farm-to-table meal you won’t soon forget, head to the restaurant at Shelburne Farms —a nonprofit organization that advocates sustainable agriculture from their own 1,400-acre working farm. After a meal of Shelburne Farms Pork (with Wapsie Valley polenta, brussel sprouts, stout cabbage, and smoked pumpkin puree), head to the farm store to stock up on maple syrup, farmstead cheddar, and Vermont-made preserves.

Brattleboro

Just over the border from Hinsdale, New Hampshire, and only a 10-minute drive from the Massachusetts state line, Brattleboro is a pretty apt picture of greater Vermont’s granola reputation. Get a feel for the artsy town with an indie flick screening at the landmark Latchis Theater —Brattleboro’s one and only cinema. After the show, grab an indulgent dinner at Duo Restaurant . Though owners Keith Arnold and Stephanie Bonin opened their first location (to much success) in Denver, they returned to Bonin’s Vermont hometown to open their second kitchen in 2015, bringing the good people of Brattleboro grass-fed ribeye with kholrabi and potato cheddar gratin, seasonal veggies, and black pepper bordelaise. At the end of the night, retire to 1868 Crosby House , a charming Victorian B&B just a short walk from downtown.

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Quechee is truly one of the Northeast’s ultimate fall sights—leaf peepers and locals will tell you as much. That's when fiery reds, yellows, and oranges highlight the village's tumbling hills and valleys. Though the town’s annual Quechee Hot Air Balloon, Craft & Music Festival —quite possibly the most New England thing to ever exist—doesn’t go off until June, this time of year you can still hop in a wicker basket and take flight across Vermont and New Hampshire. Wherever your itinerary takes you, make sure to include a trip to the tumbling white waters of Quechee Gorge—we suggest viewing it from the bridge along US Route 4—and dinner at the Quechee Inn at Marshland Fine , where a gourmet, locally-sourced three-course menu for two—with wine—will run you only $55. We’re talking mains like grilled salmon with orange zest and ginger-infused honey and Vermont-made bell pepper and smoked mozzarella ravioli in Béchamel sauce.

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20 Top-Rated Attractions & Places to Visit in Vermont

Written by Barbara Radcliffe Rogers Updated Jun 23, 2023

Vermont is equal parts myth and reality, home to a mystique that other states can only envy. A mere mention of its name, and images appear: sunlit meadows of black-and-white cows, dazzling white ski trails, tidy hillside farms, blazing red maple trees along a stone wall, covered bridges , buckets collecting sap for maple syrup.

Certainly these idyllic scenes still exist, although less picturesque plastic tubing has replaced most of the buckets, and many of the farms may now be chic B&Bs where you can stay while sightseeing.

Another Vermont exists alongside this idealized one, represented by bustling Burlington , the outlet malls of Manchester, Killington's frenetic après-ski scene, and Brattleboro's unlikely blend of gritty blue-collar and '70s hippies grown up.

Even the state's mainstay of agriculture has a new look, as dozens of artisanal cheese makers transform Vermont's dairy industry, and tourists eagerly follow the Vermont Cheese Trail to sample them.

Other trails lead to traditional tourist attractions: maple farms boiling sap and welcoming visitors each March, and covered bridges – seven of them in the far northern town of Montgomery alone. You'll enjoy both Vermonts.

I live 20 miles from Brattleboro, Vermont, where I do my shopping at the Farmer's Market and in the locally owned stores on Main Street. My travels frequently take me back and forth across the Connecticut River, which separates my western New Hampshire town from my favorite skiing and hiking trails in Vermont's Green Mountains. I consider both states to be our backyard.

Join me to discover the best things to see and do there, with this list of the top attractions and places to visit in Vermont.

2. Church Street Marketplace

4. mount mansfield and smugglers notch, 5. burlington bike path and waterfront park, 6. vermont's year-round ski resorts, 7. quechee gorge, 8. bennington battle monument and museum, 9. marsh-billings-rockefeller national historic park, 10. lake champlain, 11. billings farm & museum, 12. visit a maple farm, 13. brattleboro farmers' market, 14. ben & jerry's, 15. shelburne museum, 16. fairbanks museum & planetarium, 17. montshire museum of science, 18. rock of ages quarry and hope cemetery, 19. park-mccullough historic governor's mansion, 20. green mountain national forest.

With a covered bridge, white-spired church, weathered barns, and ski trails down the mountainside, Stowe is everybody's image of Vermont. At the foot of Mt. Mansfield and in the heart of the state's snow belt, it's also the town that most personifies the glory days of Vermont's early ski industry, a heritage that's explored here in the Vermont Ski Museum .

Although avid skiers had climbed the mountain long before that, and a rope tow was installed in 1937, things really took off in 1940, when the first chairlift was opened. Stowe Mountain Resort is still one of New England's premier ski destinations, and the gondola that carries skiers in the winter takes sightseers to the summit for more views in the summer and fall.

It's not all about skiing and the mountain; you'll find shops and boutiques, art galleries, dining, and lodging of all sorts. Exhibits of works by Vermont-based artists are shown in the Helen Day Art Center and you can find quality Vermont- and New England-made jewelry, glass and fiber arts at Remarkable Things at Stowe Craft at the beginning of Mountain Road. When hunger strikes, I like to grab a hand-built sandwich at Back Cap Coffee & Bakery on Main St.

You can rent bicycles to ride, or you can walk or skate along the 5.3-mile Stowe Recreation Path , a paved multi-use route through meadows and woods alongside the river, with beautiful views of Mt. Mansfield. The best views of Mt. Mansfield's distinctive profile are from the upper part of the path, which you can access from Thompson Park, on Mountain Road.

You can find things to do here all year, and you'll quickly see why it's considered one of the best small towns in Vermont .

Author's Tip: If your canine friend accompanies you to Stowe, look for the 1.8-mile Quiet Path, a low-impact extension of the Recreation Path, where dogs can run free. You can reach it from Cemetery or Mayo Farm Rd.

In the heart of downtown Burlington , Church Street is only four blocks long, but it forms a wide, traffic-free space for public events and a lively street life even in Vermont's cold winters. Along with the festivals scheduled throughout the year, it's a place for sidewalk cafes, benches, and public artworks, and the buildings alongside it are filled with shops, restaurants, and boutiques. In the summer, when everyone is outdoors, it has the feel of an Italian piazza.

A mural, Everyone Loves a Parade! by Canadian muralist Pierre Hardy decorates a wall, and other artworks include a life-sized statue of a local jazz artist and a fish fountain crafted of metal. It's no wonder this has been named one of the Great Public Spaces in America; it's also listed as a National Register Historic District.

Opposite Church Street, The Flynn Center hosts top performers and musicians, in a state-of-the-art theater.

Author's Tip: For bargains that will astonish you, go downstairs at Outdoor Gear Exchange , part sale and clearance clothing and gear, and part consignment shop. My daughter bought a name-brand jacket there for less than ¼ its original price. So, if you find that your children have outgrown their ski boots or jacket, you could leave them there for sale instead of hauling them home from vacation.

Address: Church Street, Burlington, Vermont

Robert Todd Lincoln, son of the president, visited Manchester with his mother shortly before his father's assassination. After he had become president of Pullman Company, in the early 20th century, he returned to build the Georgian Revival Hildene as his country estate.

Hildene represents a fine example of homes built as retreats for the families of wealthy magnates and is furnished with several pieces from Mrs. Lincoln's family. Personal belongings of President Lincoln include his famous stovepipe hat.

Other highlights are the thousand-pipe 1908 Aeolian organ, in working condition, and the elegant dining room furnished in Queen Anne style. The home remained in the Lincoln family until 1975, thus preserving the original furnishings and memorabilia. The formal gardens on the terrace overlooking the broad valley have been restored from records of original plantings.

If you can, go to Hildene in late May or early June, when the formal garden is filled with more than a thousand bright peonies in full bloom. These blossoms, some the size of dinner plates, fill the air with their heady fragrance. Mesmerized by the peonies and by the view that reaches across the Battenkill Valley to the mountains beyond, I couldn't stop clicking photos.

You can stay in another of these elegant mansions built in Manchester by wealthy industrialists. The Inn at Ormsby Hill , near Hildene, is now an elegant bed-and-breakfast.

Address: 1005 Hildene Road, Manchester, Vermont

Mountain Road climbs out of Stowe and up the shoulder of Mount Mansfield, past Stowe Mountain Resort, where a gondola carries skiers and sightseers to the summit. Beyond the resort, the road narrows to snake through Smugglers' Notch, one of Vermont's most engaging natural attractions.

The road through this pass between Mount Mansfield and Spruce Peak is so tight and narrow as it winds upward that at some curves only a single car can pass through the openings between the giant boulders.

Snowplows can't get through it in the winter, when the road closes just past the ski area. The rest of the year, you can park the car and walk the paths among this massive jumble of glacial rock and discover the caves where 19th-century smugglers once hid.

The caves and gigantic boulders were formed when the glacier stalled here during the last ice age, smashing the mountain ledges and dropping them into the notch, where they were carved and tumbled by more glacial action.

Mansfield is Vermont's highest mountain, and at its top are sweeping views and more than two miles of ridge-top hiking above tree line . This is one of only two places in Vermont where rare arctic-alpine tundra exists. A number of routes reach its summit. The Long Trail crosses Route 108 at the foot of Smugglers' Notch, climbing steadily for 2.3 miles to the ridgeline.

Although the Long Trail traversing the ridgetop is one of the top hiking trails in Vermont , there are easier ways to get to the summit of Mt. Mansfield. Built for skiers, in summer and fall the Gondola SkyRide is a sightseeing attraction, revealing summit views to Lake Champlain, New York's Adirondacks and New Hampshire's White Mountains. The 10-minute ride on the gondola takes you close to the Long Trail, so you can hike the summit part for the best views.

Driving the Auto Toll Road takes about 20 minutes, and from its terminus you can also access trails to the summit ridge, or just enjoy the views from there. The Toll Road isn't scary – there are no vertigo-inducing drop-offs (or I wouldn't drive it) – and a lot better value than the gondola. The Toll Road costs less for a car and up to six passengers than a gondola ticket for one person.

Both the Gondola SkyRide and Auto Toll Road are open through foliage season in the fall.

Close to the point where the Long Trail crosses Route 108 at the base of Smugglers' Notch, Topnotch Resort is a luxurious base for exploring the area, with mountain views, three pools, a full-service spa, and a fine-dining restaurant.

A paved bicycle path borders eight miles of Burlington's Lake Champlain shoreline, extending from Oakledge Park north to the Winooski River. Alongside is a graded path for walkers and runners, with benches at points with the best views across the lake.

The path connects several parks that mark the shoreline, and a boardwalk forms a promenade along the central section. Here, you'll find the ECHO Leahy Center for Lake Champlain and Vermont's only All-America Display Garden , where flowering ornamental plants bloom through summer and fall.

Waterfront Park is the site of several festivals in the summer, and picnic tables along the route invite a lakeside lunch. In the spring, the path is lined by brilliant blooming azaleas and at any time of year, this is Vermont's best spot for watching the spectacular sunsets over Lake Champlain .

From the slopes of Mount Snow in the south to Jay Peak in the north, skiing extends the entire length of Vermont. Some of the top ski resorts in the east are here, and the state's nearly two dozen ski mountains offer downhill ski experiences for everyone, from young children and beginners to experts training for the Olympics. State-of-the-art snowmaking and grooming keeps slopes and trails in top condition from December through March.

Winter isn't the only time you can enjoy Vermont's ski resorts , however. The larger ones have on-mountain activities all year, offering mountain slides, rope courses, mountain biking, and scenic rides on the lifts that carry skiers to the summits in the winter. Resorts at the base have spas, swimming pools, Segway rides, golf, and activities for all ages.

Okemo Mountain Resort has the Timber Ripper Mountain Coaster; a spa; a mountain bike park; scenic chairlift rides; disc and miniature golf; and the Haulback Challenge Course, an aerial journey from tree to tree. Killington Ski Resort has the Beast Mountain Coaster, a ropes course, and an Adventure Center.

Stowe Mountain Resort whisks visitors to the top on the state's only gondola lift, or drivers can ascend to the summit of Mt. Mansfield on the Toll Road. Stratton Mountain has a mountain bike park and a 27-hole championship golf course.

In the winter, each resort has its own individual style and atmosphere that draws its loyal fans. For example, the two major mountains in central Vermont, Okemo and Killington, although close geographically, couldn't be farther apart in style or atmosphere.

Both offer top-quality skiing and boarding, but while Okemo has a family vacation vibe of a mountain ski village, after the lifts close Killington is all about the nightlife and apres-ski scene, with a road lined by evening venues as its nucleus. For me, the important thing is that they both have "bubble" chairlifts with domes to break the mountains' icy winds (as do Stowe and Mount Snow).

Vermont's deepest gorge was formed by glaciers about 13,000 years ago, and has continued to deepen by the constant action of the Ottauquechee River, which you will see flowing 165 feet below. The best place to view Quechee Gorge is from the walkway along the arched iron bridge that carries Route 4 across the top, about 7 miles from Woodstock .

A trail leads through the woods beside the rim to the bottom of the gorge, where you can see the lower part of it from water level. Close to the gorge, also on Route 4, is the excellent Vermont Institute of Natural Sciences (VINS) , a nature center where injured raptors are rehabilitated and returned to the wild.

Address: Route 4, Quechee, Vermont

The 306-foot-high obelisk, visible for miles around, commemorates the 1777 battle fought about five miles west of Bennington, which turned the tide against the British by splitting British General John Burgoyne's forces in half, making the final American victory possible. You can bypass the monument's 412 steps by taking an elevator to the top for views.

The nearby Bennington Museum is best known for its extensive collection of works by primitive folk artist Grandma Moses, along with her schoolhouse painting studio.

The museum is also especially strong in its collections of Bennington pottery, furniture, toys, American glassware, and Victorian quilts. You'll also find fine art and artifacts from the colonial and Civil War periods.

Between the monument and museum, you'll pass the lovely little settlement of Old Bennington with its 1762 Old First Church. In the cemetery behind it is the grave of Robert Frost , and fans of his poetry will want to stop, as I always do, to pay respects. His tombstone is marked with the epitaph he chose for himself: "I had a lover's quarrel with the world."

Address: Route 9, Bennington, Vermont

The only national park to concentrate on land stewardship in America incorporates both a working farm and a Victorian mansion on the hill above, set in formal gardens designed by several of America's foremost landscape architects.

The Queen-Anne-style mansion is decorated with the finest of Victorian artistry, including embossed wallpaper and stained-glass windows by Tiffany & Co. Also displayed in the house is the Rockefellers' collection of works by artists of the Hudson River School.

Both rail magnate Frederick Billings, and later, the Rockefellers were dedicated to land conservation and used this property to put it into practice. You can walk the trails on Mt. Tom, where park rangers can explain forestry practices and help identify trailside plants and trees.

Tours of the art-filled Rockefeller home and grounds include themes of gardening, forestry, and their relationship to conservation.

Note to parents: my kids loved getting their Junior Ranger book at the Carriage Barn Visitor Center and taking a self-guided trip through the Junior Ranger loop. They left proudly wearing their badges (crafted from wood grown in the park). In July and August kids can join special events.

Address: River Road, Woodstock, Vermont

Extending for 120 miles between Vermont and New York, with its northern tip in Canada, Lake Champlain lies mostly in Vermont, and draws visitors for its recreation, wildlife, and historical attractions. Its watershed covers more than 8,000 square miles.

Much of its 587 miles of shoreline are undeveloped; a haven for wildlife; and one of the best places to visit in Vermont for canoeists, kayakers, and sailors. On the Vermont side, 318 species of birds depend on Lake Champlain, and 81 species of fish swim in its waters.

According to Samuel de Champlain, for whom the lake is named, a 20-foot serpent-like creature also swims in the lake. His was the first, but certainly not the last reported sighting of what is now known as " Champy ." You might catch sight of it from one of the several lake cruises, or even from one of the three ferries that cross to the New York side from Charlotte, Burlington, and Grand Isle. ( I have not seen Champy myself, so I'm not making any promises.)

Several wildlife reserves protect its shore and neighboring wetlands, including the Dead Creek WMA , where thousands of migrating snow geese stop to rest in late October. You can learn more about the ecology at the ECHO Leahy Center for Lake Champlain , on the waterfront in Burlington.

The Lake Champlain Maritime Museum , overlooking Basin Harbor in Vergennes, explores the lake's role in the Revolution and War of 1812. You can also visit Mount Independence , an important sister fort to Fort Ticonderoga across the lake in New York, and attacked in July 1777. Learn more at the visitor center and explore the 400-acre site with the help of trail maps with historical notes and descriptions.

Although Champlain doesn't have the quiet intimacy of many lakes in Vermont , you'll find plenty of things to do along its shores and in its waters. Several state parks north of Burlington have sandy beaches. The longest is the 2000-foot beach at Sand Bar State Park , its gently sloping shore good for young children. You can rent boats here and on the beach at Grand Isle State Park.

Except in protected bays, these waters are not for beginning kayakers, but the bays and shoreline campsites of Knight Island State Park make a great adventure for those who can paddle more than 3 miles of open water.

Author's Note: Pay close attention to the weather forecast so you won't be caught, as I once was, in a sudden thunderstorm. Waves and wind can make a lake the size of Champlain seem like mid-ocean.

Spreading across the wide, flat landscape of the Ottauquechee River valley, the Billings Farm & Museum carries on the education mission of Frederick Billings, former owner of the farm and of the forests above that are now part of the national park. Billings created the farm to demonstrate the value of sound environmental practices in raising livestock.

The working farm continues to educate, as well as show what Vermont farming and rural life was like in the days before modern equipment did much of the work. You can tour the farm manager's house and dairy, visit livestock barns, watch cattle milking, make your own butter, and learn other old-fashioned rural skills in hands-on programs.

The small museum shows tools and equipment used in daily farm activities, such as ice-harvesting and maple sugaring, in eye-catching and informative exhibits.

Try to visit in August or early September when the Sunflower House is in full bloom. Each spring, 20,000 square feet of field is planted in more than 100 varieties of sunflower, some growing as tall as 14 feet. Arranged in a circular labyrinth pattern, the flowers are massed by variety, with colors varying from yellow to orange to red; some are as short as 18 inches and others had multiple rows of petals and centers so small they looked more like dahlias.

Address: 69 Old River Road, Woodstock, Vermont

The maple trees that bring a blaze of color to Vermont's autumn landscape also make Vermont the nation's top producer of maple syrup. The time to be here for the complete maple experience is late February through early April, when sugar houses are at full boil and you can sample the golden syrup as it's made.

That's the time for "sugaring off" parties and the chewy candy made by pouring syrup onto snow. Many farms take visitors into the grove – called a sugar bush – by horse-drawn sled or wagon, and some serve hot cider and fresh cider doughnuts.

Two of these farms you can visit at any time of year to learn about the process and sample syrup and other maple products. Morse Farm Maple Sugarworks in Montpelier is an 8th generation family-owned maple syrup farm, where you can sample maple products and see displays on tapping trees and making syrup. The gift shop has a selection of maple goodies and other Vermont-made products. As a bonus, there is an outdoor Vermont farm life museum, too.

At Sugarbush Farm in Woodstock, you can sample two classic Vermont products: maple syrup and cheese. Both are produced at the 3 rd -generation farm, and if there's cheesemaking in process in the dairy, you can watch. The shop also offers samples of jams, mustards, smoked meats, and other locally made delicacies.

Author's Tip: Driving to Sugarbush Farm, you'll feel as though you are heading deeper and deeper into nowhere, but have faith—a series of signs will point you the right way at every intersection. A word of advice, however: without four-wheel drive, don't go in March "mud season."

In a region known for its small farms and agriculture, Brattleboro Farmers' Market is the poster child of farmers markets. More than a place to buy fresh-picked vegetables and fruit from small independent local farmers, it is a social event, a meeting place, a Saturday lunch stop, and part of the weekend routine for southern Vermonters.

You'll find old favorite vegetables and all the trendy new varieties, along with flowers, artisanal breads, farm cheeses, handmade soap, local honey, maple syrup, pottery, jewelry, smart scarves, and French pastries. Plan to be there around lunchtime, when there will nearly always be live music and maybe Morris dancers on the shaded lawn.

Some vendors sell prepared foods to eat at picnic tables under the trees. You may find savory stews from Mali, Thai noodles, Lebanese dolmas, even Breton crepes. In the winter, the market moves indoors to a Main Street location.

A Saturday morning tradition for my family, the farmers' market isn't just about the fresh vegetables and fruit. I get tips for growing herbs and suggestions on how to cook foraged ramps and fiddlehead ferns. And I get fresh-squeezed lemonade and eat really great Thai food for lunch while listening to music and watching the kids play in the big sandbox. It gets the weekend started right.

Brattleboro itself is a cultural and social phenomenon, one of Vermont's few towns with an industrial past, but also one where back-to-the-landers settled in the 1960s and '70s and never left. The arts flourish here, and on any night of the week, you'll find a choice of gallery openings, performances, classes, community action meetings, concerts, public forums, and other activities.

Address: Route 9, West Brattleboro, Vermont

Unquestionably Vermont's most popular tourist attraction for children, Ben & Jerry's factory tour is a favorite experience for adults, too. On the 30-minute guided tour of the factory, you'll watch workers as they make and package ice cream, while a guide explains the process.

On days when the factory is not operating, you'll still see inside it, but a movie will show it in action. Of course, a sample of the day's flavor is included, and you can sample more flavors before choosing your favorite at their scoop shop.

The gift shop sells B&J goods, and you can take ice cream with you in insulated carriers. Be sure to visit the Flavor Graveyard to mourn the loss of their "dearly de-pinted" flavors and to smile at the past tongue-in-cheek names. In case you wondered, my favorite is rich, dark "Chocolatey Love A-fair" -- chocolate with salted caramel swirls, caramel chunks and sea salt fudge.

Address: Route 100, Waterbury, Vermont

Restored historic buildings and the collections they house at the open-air Shelburne Museum reflect Vermont's rich history and America's folk and fine art traditions. You can explore a round barn; the lake steamer SS Ticonderoga (now on dry land); a lake lighthouse; a barn filled with vintage carriages and wagons; a print shop; and collections of carved decoys, American quilts, handmade hatboxes, hooked rugs, and trains, in a bucolic village setting among manicured gardens.

In contrast to the simple farms represented at the museum, you can glimpse an entirely different kind of farming in New England at nearby Shelburne Farms . The grand turreted barns and farmyard of this 1400-acre working "gentleman farm" are still in operation, and you can sample their cheese, visit the gardens, and even have tea, depending on the tour you choose.

Address: 6000 Shelburne Road, Shelburne

Exuding all the charm and fascination of an old-time Victorian museum, without the mustiness, the museum endowed by the owner of Fairbanks Scales covers subjects from Vermont wildflowers to the mysteries of the universe.

The 1891 Fairbanks Museum building, listed on the National Register of Historic Places, exhibits many of the usual things you'd expect – mounted birds and animals, Native American stone tools, Civil War memorabilia – as well as many delightful surprises. Take, for example, the bizarre collection of Victorian portraits of Washington, Lincoln, and others formed entirely of bugs and beetles.

Vermonters love visiting the live broadcast studio for their favorite weather report, Eye on the Sky. Downstairs is a hands-on nature center with wasp hives, frogs, iguanas, and creepy things kids love. Planetarium programs examine the sky above St. Johnsbury and beyond.

Across the street is the St. Johnsbury Athenaeum , whose Art Gallery was added in 1873, making it the oldest art gallery in the United States still in its original form. The collection features American and European artists from the late 18th- to mid-19th century.

These and other outstanding examples of Victorian architecture on Main St. are described in a walking tour map of the street, available at the museum.

Address: 1302 Main Street, St. Johnsbury, Vermont

"Do touch," seems to be the motto of the Montshire , where each of its 125 exhibits begs for hands-on interaction. Kids can make soap bubbles grow bigger than they are, understand how movies are made by creating their own, experiment with light beams, navigate a labyrinth powered by air, watch a live boa constrictor, or see leafcutter ants at work demolishing foliage.

Even the building is designed for curious kids, with color-coded ventilation ducts and exposed construction supports. Nature trails explore the 110 acres of grounds alongside the Connecticut River.

Address: 1 Montshire Road, Norwich, Vermont

Granite quarries were founded at Barre after the War of 1812 and are still operating today. You can visit the Rock of Ages quarry, a staggering hole in the earth, and at 550 feet wide, a quarter mile long, and 450 feet deep, the world's largest quarry.

Barre granite's exceptionally fine grain makes it the preferred stone for finely detailed, durable outdoor sculpture, such as monuments and architectural detail. While there, along with touring the quarry and workshops, you can sand-blast your own granite souvenir, and go bowling on what is believed to be the world's only outdoor granite lane. (No, the bowling balls are not made of granite.)

Barre drew expert stone workers and carvers, many from Italy, and as you might expect, you can find their work in public sculptures and in Hope Cemetery . This is filled with elaborate carvings by early-20th-century stonecutters, highlighted by some remarkably lifelike sculptures and by symbols of employment or favorite pastimes: a soccer-ball, an oil truck, or an outdoor scene with a fishing rod.

Address: 558 Graniteville Road, Graniteville, Vermont

One of New England's finest examples of Victorian architecture and decoration, the Park-McCullough Historic Governor's Mansion is also one of the best preserved. The 35-room mansion represents the height of the Second Empire style popular in the 1860s, with finely detailed construction and artistic features.

The mansion remained in the same family for generations, so it is furnished with original pieces and decorative arts that show the opulence and tastes of the mid-Victorian era. Surrounded by manicured grounds and gardens, the mansion is open from spring through fall and hosts cultural events, including a classical music series, theater performances, and a summer croquet league.

Address: 1 Park Street, North Bennington, Vermont

Vermont's vast National Forest lies in two sections along the mountain chain that forms the state's spine–and makes east-west travel a challenge. Nearly every route across these mountains leads over a gap, a mountain pass that may be good for viewing the scenery, but not so good for winter travel. In fact, some of these roads close entirely during the winter.

Follow these the rest of the year to discover waterfalls, National Forest campgrounds, scenic places to picnic, trails to hike, and a world of nature. The Appalachian Trail crosses through the southern section of the National Forest, and the Long Trail follows the chain the entire length of the state from the Canadian to the Massachusetts borders.

Route 100 , often called "The Skiers' Highway," weaves back and forth among the mountains as it makes its way north, connecting many of Vermont's ski areas, from Mount Snow to Stowe and Jay Peak . Route 9 crosses the Green Mountains in the south; Route 73 traverses Brandon Gap; Route 125 climbs over Middlebury Gap (passing Texas Falls ); and Route 17 climbs Appalachian Gap, the highest that is open in the winter, at 2,356 feet.

I like camping at the well-maintained campgrounds located throughout the National Forest, especially those at Moosalamoo (near Middlebury), Silver Lake and Hapgood Pond. The latter, near Manchester, also has a day-use recreation area with swimming, canoeing, kayaking, and fishing. It is the only place in the Green Mountain National Forest where a day use pass is needed.

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What to Do in Vermont: In addition to those described here, there are more attractions to see in Burlington , and you can explore outside the city on Vermont's outstanding hiking trails . Or you can enjoy winter sports at any of Vermont's top ski resorts .

Where to Go Next: Just a ferry ride across Lake Champlain are the Adirondack Mountains, one of the top attractions of New York state . This is a popular area for hiking, camping, and other outdoor pursuits. And across the Connecticut River to the east is New Hampshire , where you'll find mountains, lake and ocean beaches , and top-rated resorts.

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25 Top Things to Do in Vermont

Outdoor adventures are just one of the high points of the Green Mountain State.

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Enchanting views of fall foliage, delicious creemees, tastings at sugarhouses and more await travelers to Vermont.

In 2019 – in an attempt to reverse the state's then-declining population – Vermont was paying people to move there, awarding up to $10,000 as part of a grant program aimed at would-be remote employees of out-of-state companies. Over the last two years, the state has experienced an influx of newcomers relocating there for reasons beyond just a cash incentive (though those grants were still available until recently). In fact, a report this year by a moving company ranked Vermont as the U.S. state with the highest inbound move rate in 2021.

Instead of money, the incentive to move to Vermont is Vermont itself – the same reason people have chosen to vacation here for decades. It's a peaceful, naturally beautiful place to escape, affording outdoor attractions that range from world-renowned ski resorts to the scenic Lake Champlain, which extends into New York and Quebec.

Vermont also touts its share of charismatic small towns, unique lodging choices such as farm stays and all-inclusive resorts , and distinctive food and drink. This destination is worth a visit for its nationally recognized craft beer, the rich offerings of the Vermont Cheese Trail, the maple syrup – since Vermont produces more than 50% of the country's supply – and the "creemees," which are a slightly richer (and arguably tastier) take on soft serve ice cream.

There's no such thing as a bad time to visit Vermont – even the spring mud season has its offbeat perks – but fall is exceptionally beautiful, with perhaps the most stunning foliage in all of New England . Ever seen an iconic photo of a white church amid trees in hues of red and orange? That's Vermont (more specifically, Stowe).

Curious to see the Green Mountain State for yourself? If you're looking for the best things to do in Vermont, these are the experiences that should be on your list.

(Note: Some of the following activities, attractions and locations may be affected by the COVID-19 pandemic. New policies may be in place, including capacity restrictions, reservation requirements or mask mandates. Check with the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, the U.S. Department of State and local tourism boards before traveling.)

Lake Champlain

In 1998, Lake Champlain was briefly named one of the Great Lakes after then-President Bill Clinton signed into law a bill in which Senator Patrick Leahy of Vermont quietly deemed it as such. Eighteen days – and a heavy dispute – later, the title was rescinded after a determination that, geographically, Lake Champlain doesn't quite measure up to lakes like Superior and Michigan. But residents and tourists today can still recognize it for the great – not to be confused with Great – lake that it is.

With or without the esteemed title, Lake Champlain is a large freshwater lake that spans 435 square miles of surface water and wows visitors with views of the Green Mountains on one side and the Adirondacks on the other. Dozens of public beaches and boat launches line its shores, so you'll find no shortage of opportunities for recreation on the water, including boating, fishing, swimming and keeping an eye out for the mythological lake monster named Champ. The lake's popular island towns such as South Hero offer state parks, farms, orchards, vineyards, and even a few inns and campsites.

Ben & Jerry's Waterbury Factory Tour and Ice Cream Shop

Courtesy of Ben & Jerry's

Have you even been to Vermont if you don't take the factory tour at Ben & Jerry's ? At its flagship location in Waterbury (near Stowe), Ben & Jerry's offers 30-minute guided tours that include a short movie on the company's history, an overview of the production process, a look at the manufacturing area and an ice cream tasting. Of course, there's also an on-site ice cream shop and gift shop, and especially charming are the photo ops and Flavor Graveyard, where you can pay your respects to the "dearly de-pinted." Previous visitors confirm it's as touristy as it seems, but fun nonetheless.

Address: 1281 Waterbury-Stowe Road, state Route 100, Waterbury, VT 05676

One of the top things to do in Vermont is spend a day or two in Burlington , where Church Street Marketplace , the centerpiece of town, offers shopping, restaurants (many with outdoor dining) and lodging such as the boutique Hotel Vermont . Of course, this popular waterfront city also boasts a variety of local breweries. Other highlights in Burlington include ECHO, Leahy Center for Lake Champlain , a science and nature museum; the Ethan Allen Homestead , a historical farmhouse site; and, for those who enjoy quirky attractions, the World's Tallest File Cabinet. Whatever you do, don't bypass the Burlington Bike Path, a pleasant paved trail that runs along Lake Champlain and connects beaches, parks and neighborhoods.

[See more of Burlington: Things to Do | Hotels | When to Visit | Photos ]

Island Line Trail

Courtesy of Hello Burlington and Local Motion

The Island Line Trail, an extension of the Burlington Bike Path, crosses the middle of Lake Champlain via a 3-mile marble causeway, allowing you to practically touch the water with your feet in some areas; there's nothing quite like it. This rail trail begins in Burlington and follows the route of a railbed – the Island Line – built in 1899 by the Rutland-Canadian Railroad to connect New England to the Great Lakes, until moving freight by other means became cheaper around the 1950s. The railbed remained abandoned until it became a path for pedestrians and cyclists in the 1980s, and this rail trail has been one of the most unique things to do in Vermont ever since. To reach the end of the 14-mile stretch, you have to take a ferry, which bridges a 200-foot gap in the causeway, before continuing the short journey to South Hero Island.

To acquire a bike, check out Local Motion, a rental shop and advocacy organization in Burlington. This outpost offers conventional and hybrid bikes as well as e-bikes and kids bikes; trailers or tag-alongs are available for certain rentals. Local Motion also operates the bike ferry and provides an interactive map of the trail. Both bike rentals and ferry rides are available seasonally from May to October.

Experience the sugarhouses

As one of the largest producers of maple syrup, Vermont has thousands of sugarhouses, many of which host Maple Open House Weekends in March with tours and tastings. The events align with sugaring season (and mud season), when oscillating temperatures allow sap to loosen and flow through maple trees for sugar makers to collect. If you don't want to visit Vermont during mud season but still want to learn about syrup production and history, check out Baird Farm in Chittenden, which offers free tours and tastings year-round (reservations required). Previous guests rave about the staff's hospitality here.

[Read: The Top Romantic Getaways in Vermont .]

Try out a delicious creemee

Courtesy of Canteen Creemee Company

Creemees are essentially soft-serve ice cream, but there's no real consensus on where the name came from. Perhaps the moniker derives from the fact that Vermont used to make its soft serve higher in butterfat content and, hence, creamier. Either way, the creemee's most iconic flavor is maple, but you can't go wrong with any flavor at places such as Canteen Creemee Company in Waitsfield, The Village Scoop in Colchester and Al's French Frys in Burlington, all of which come recommended by locals and visitors alike. If you're looking for plant-based options, head to Offbeat Creemee in Winooski.

Breweries and beer trails

If you like craft beer, chances are Vermont is already on your list of places to visit . Featuring some of the top-rated breweries in the U.S., Vermont is home to The Alchemist in Stowe, whose Heady Topper IPA has a cult following, as well as Freak Folk Bier in Waterbury and Hill Farmstead Brewery in Greensboro. If you really want to immerse yourself in the craft beer scene, follow one of the Vermont Brewers Association's beer trails (available online or on an app where you can take the Vermont Brewery Passport Challenge). Cyclists may want to check out the bike-friendly Burlington Trail, where you can imbibe highly rated beers at Foam Brewers. Pet owners can take advantage of the Dog Friendly Beer Trail to drink alongside furry friends, while the Tiny Trail will take beer enthusiasts exclusively to nano breweries.

Vermont Teddy Bear

What started as a Burlington street cart in 1981 has grown into a full-fledged store and experience in Shelburne, Vermont. At Vermont Teddy Bear, visitors can take a tour of the factory where the now-famous plush bears are made, including the Bear Hospital, where injured or sick teddy bears are lovingly repaired by the resident bear doctor. For an additional fee on top of the tour cost, visitors can make their own teddy bear to take home or gift to someone they love. It's the perfect way to commemorate a trip to Vermont for visitors of all ages. You can also check out the on-site Bear Shop to browse the selection of bears and Vermont-made products.

Address: 6655 Shelburne Road, Shelburne, VT 05482

Simon Pearce Flagship

Courtesy of Simon Pearce

Another item to immortalize a trip to Vermont (albeit more expensive than a teddy bear) is a handcrafted piece of glassware or pottery from the Simon Pearce store in Quechee, the namesake studio of a legendary Irish-American entrepreneur and artist who resides in Vermont. Located in a renovated historic woolen mill that's hydroelectrically powered by the Ottauquechee River – an attraction in itself – the artist's flagship store includes a workshop where you can watch craftspeople blowing glass pieces that are sold on-site, in addition to fine dining at The Mill at Simon Pearce, which overlooks a waterfall and covered bridge.

Address: 1760 Quechee Main St., Quechee, VT 05059

Hit the ski slopes in Stowe and beyond

Courtesy of Stowe Mountain Resort

Vermont is a world-renowned destination for skiing, with more than two dozen public ski areas on offer. Among them is Stowe Mountain Resort , nicknamed the "Ski Capital of the East" and considered one of the best places to ski in the U.S. This resort touts 485 acres of skiable terrain that cover Spruce Peak and Mount Mansfield, the highest point in Vermont. Just as good as the skiing and snowboarding is the town of Stowe itself, where shops and restaurants line Main Street and hotels such as Topnotch Resort and The Lodge at Spruce Peak offer luxury accommodations and amenities.

Check out other notable ski resorts such as Killington, the largest ski area on the East Coast, and family-friendly Smugglers' Notch, where winter activities include ski lessons for kids as young as 3, snowshoe scavenger hunts and a winter carnival. On any summer voyage to Vermont, don't overlook resorts such as Okemo, where you can ride what's essentially a flying couch – skiers will know it as a bubble chairlift – and hike to a historic fire tower for 360-degree mountain views.

[See more of Stowe: Things to Do | Hotels | When to Visit | Photos ]

Trapp Family Lodge

One of the hotels that make Stowe a popular place to stay is the Trapp Family Lodge , owned by the von Trapp family (yes, that von Trapp family). After the Trapp Family Singers toured the U.S. in the early 1940s, they decided to settle on a farm in Stowe, which reminded them of their home country, Austria . In the summer of 1950, the family opened a 27-room lodge. Later destroyed by a fire, the Trapp Family Lodge was rebuilt with a variety of accommodations, activities and on-site dining, now including von Trapp Brewing, where you can drink in the resort's history, mountain views, and a craft beer or two.

Address: 700 Trapp Hill Road, Stowe, VT 05672

Vermont Cheese Trail

All roads lead to cheese on the Vermont Cheese Trail, composed of more than 45 award-winning cheesemakers including Cabot Creamery. Some farms provide tastings and/or tours, while others simply sell their best products. Check out an online map of the Vermont Cheese Trail to see each cheesemaker's location and offerings.

Wondering where to begin your cheesy commute through Vermont? If you like aged cheddar, stop at Grafton Village Cheese or Shelburne Farms. For goat cheese, try the chevre varieties at Blue Ledge Farm. You also can't go wrong with the offerings at Consider Bardwell Cheese. No matter where you go, the products made by Jasper Hill Farm, whose cheeses rank among the best in the world, are more than worth a taste. While its location in the Northeast Kingdom region isn't open to the public, the farm's artisanal cheeses can be found at local grocery stores (and at select stores throughout the U.S.).

Liberty Hill Farm

Courtesy of Liberty Hill Farm

For a look at where the cheese process begins, Liberty Hill Farm offers tours and overnight accommodations. Guests of this dairy farm's cozy bed-and-breakfast enjoy a farm-fresh morning meal, afternoon cocoa and cookies, and a hardy dinner each day of their stay – with ingredients including Cabot Creamery cheeses. The biggest draw of a visit to Liberty Hill Farm, however, is the opportunity to feed and milk the resident cows. Even if you don't decide to stay at the inn, you can still book this activity through Airbnb Experiences . When you aren't doing kid-approved farm chores or meeting the animals, you will find plenty to do in the surrounding area. Previous guests, especially families with young children, say their farm experience was enriching, adding that the home-cooked meals are exceptionally good.

Address: 511 Liberty Hill, Rochester, VT 05767

General stores

For all things Americana and Vermont, take some time to browse a kitschy general store or two. The Vermont Country Store is the most famous, of course, with several locations throughout the state. Here you can buy everything from candy and gifts to clothing and kitchenware. But even more interesting is the F.H. Gillingham and Sons store in Woodstock: One of Vermont's oldest general stores still run by the same family, it's owned by descendants of Frank Henry Gillingham, who opened the general store in 1886, and Franklin Billings. Its original customer guarantee, "Your money's worth or your money back," is still honored today. Previous patrons love the vintage vibe of this store, with some calling F.H. Gillingham and Sons a mandatory stop in Woodstock.

Visit the former house and grave of Robert Frost

If you've ever enjoyed Robert Frost's poetry, head to the southwest corner of the state to learn more about the time he spent there. The first poet laureate of Vermont lived in a house in Shaftsbury in the 1920s that has since become the Robert Frost Stone House Museum; visitors can see the room where in 1922 Frost wrote his renowned poem "Stopping by Woods on a Snowy Evening." Explore the poet's life through letters, writing drafts, notes and other documents at this house museum, which is open seasonally from May through October.

Less than 5 miles away, you can make a pit stop at a historic cemetery in Old Bennington, located next to the Old First Church, to visit his grave, which is etched with a line of his poetry: "I had a lover's quarrel with the world." This burial ground is near the also visit-worthy Bennington Battle Monument, a storied structure that happens to be the tallest in Vermont.

Grafton Inn

Hang your hat where Ulysses S. Grant, Theodore Roosevelt, Woodrow Wilson, Ralph Waldo Emerson and other well-known figures once hung theirs. You'll see those names and the names of other famous guests in the cozy lobby of this inn, a member of the Historic Hotels of America. Grafton Inn offers individually (and beautifully) furnished rooms, suites and guesthouses on top of top-notch dining. The 1801 Tavern also houses Pine Room Bar, and the Phelps Barn Pub offers live music on select evenings. On-site activities include hiking, mountain biking, disc golf and pond swimming in the summer months, as well as cross-country skiing, snow tubing, snowshoeing and sleigh rides in the winter. There may not be tons to do in the village of Grafton itself – it's a small town with a cheese shop and a mercantile or two – but that's the allure.

Address: 92 Main St., Grafton, VT 05146

Shelburne Museum

Courtesy of Shelburne Museum

The Shelburne Museum has a little bit of everything, with attractions and activities located both indoors and out: The 39 buildings housing its collections are scattered across 45 acres. One popular exhibition can be found in the Circus Building, where you can ogle the fantastical, miniature Arnold Circus Parade, a hand-carved display that nearly runs the length of the 518-foot building. This unconventional museum also features historic Vermont structures, including a rare two-lane covered bridge from 1845, a Lake Champlain lighthouse from 1871 and the 1906 Ticonderoga, a restored 220-foot steamboat and National Historic Landmark that visitors can freely explore. Reviewers say the admission cost may be a bit steep but assure you'll understand why once you see just how special this museum is. Note that the Shelburne Museum is open seasonally from May to October.

Address: 6000 Shelburne Road, Shelburne, VT 05482

Basin Harbor

If there's one place that captures the spirit of Vermont, it's Basin Harbor, a resort whose repeat guests span generations – a true testament to the vacation experience at this lakefront lodge. Tucked into the woods of Vergennes, this enchanting resort offers pet-friendly cottages on the water as well as hotel guest rooms, and a variety of on-site dining options that include al fresco cookouts and lobster dinners on the North Dock. Lake Champlain activities range from narrated cruises and shipwreck tours to tubing and paddleboating, while land-based fun includes hiking, biking, tennis, croquet and badminton. Families especially love knockerball, a game similar to soccer where players are encased in inflatable spheres, as well as the Kids Club, with age-specific groups and activities. Bonus: The resort offers a variety of meal plans, including a Full American Plan that includes three meals daily.

Address: 4800 Basin Harbor Road, Vergennes, VT 05491

The Tyler Place Family Resort

Did you know there are all-inclusive resorts in Vermont? Perhaps the most well-known option is The Tyler Place Family Resort in Swanton. This classic resort offers a variety of cozy accommodations such as cottages with screened porches and kitchenettes – but not kitchens, since breakfast, lunch and dinner are included in nightly rates. Speaking of meals, The Tyler Place has a unique setup for dinner: Adults are encouraged to enjoy a quiet meal while children – who get to eat earlier – play with the newfound friends and counselors they meet via the resort's award-winning programs for kids. Together, families enjoy a seemingly endless array of activities, from banana boating and water skiing on Lake Champlain to biking around the property and exploring the gardens.

Note that The Tyler Place is open seasonally and, with the exception of Memorial Day and Labor Day weekends, requires a Saturday-to-Saturday reservation. Families rave about their stay at the resort, noting that it provides the perfect balance of alone time and family time.

Address: 175 Tyler Place, Swanton, VT 05488

Woodstock Inn & Resort

Courtesy of Woodstock Inn & Resort

The Woodstock Inn & Resort was purchased by Laurance and Mary Rockefeller in 1967, but its history traces back to a small tavern built in 1793. Today this inn is one of the best hotels in Vermont . The historic inn offers lovely guest rooms and suites (including pet-friendly options) that combine the Rockefellers' love of nature and historic preservation. Guests can also enjoy its distinct restaurants, including the award-winning Red Rooster, and a top-rated spa. The hotel also offers an activity center where you can arrange off-site excursions such as Orvis-endorsed fly fishing and mountain biking. Nearby, guests can visit the Billings Farm & Museum, enjoy winter sports at the Suicide Six ski area and stroll the quaint village of Woodstock.

Address: 14 The Green, Woodstock, VT 05091

Northeast Kingdom

Referred to by locals as the Northeast Kingdom for its natural splendor, this region in the northeast corner of Vermont borders Canada and is more remote than most places in the state (if you can believe it). In addition to its beauty, this area boasts charming dining and lodging options alongside opportunities for agritourism and ecotourism.

Explore the many vacation destinations along the Northeast Kingdom Byway, a 51-mile corridor that makes for a scenic driving tour. In the town of Burke, you'll find Lake Willoughby, Mount Pisgah and Burke Mountain Resort. Animal lovers may want to check out Saint Johnsbury, which has a lively downtown area and the one-of-a-kind Dog Chapel. Newport, a small city with lots of water activities on Lake Memphremagog, is another potential stop in the Northeast Kingdom. Not quite along the byway but still worth a visit is the town of Jay, home to Jay Peak Resort and the Pump House indoor water park (the only one of its kind in Vermont).

Marsh-Billings-Rockefeller National Historical Park

Marsh-Billings-Rockefeller National Park is the only national park in Vermont as well as the nation's only national park dedicated to conservation history and the evolving nature of land stewardship in the U.S. Both self- and ranger-guided tours of the park allow visitors to explore an on-site mansion featuring esteemed landscape artwork. You can traverse trails that lead to the Pogue, a 14-acre pond, and take in unparalleled views of the village of Woodstock and the surrounding countryside. It's the perfect place to enjoy a picnic lunch. The park also offers Junior Ranger programming for kids.

Address: 54 Elm St., Woodstock, VT 05091

Courtesy of Twin Farms

If you're looking for a romantic getaway in Vermont, book a stay at Twin Farms , one of the best Vermont hotels. At this intimate, all-inclusive hotel tucked into the countryside, guests have a choice of guest rooms, suites, cottages and the Farmhouse (whose four suites can be booked individually or together for groups), all of which are equal parts luxurious and cozy. Select cottages allow up to two dogs, with beds, blankets, treats, bowls and waste cans included in the additional pet fee.

Unique activities include bee tours, ax throwing and archery when the weather is warm; in the colder months, guests can enjoy options like ice fishing and skating. Of course, the Bridge House Spa (complete with a glass-brick steam room) is perfect any time of year, as is the seasonally inspired food and wine program. In fact, Twins Farms places an emphasis on the dining experience, with premium meal options including gourmet picnic lunches and private dinners in the on-site wine cellar. Previous guests can't say enough good things about Twin Farms, noting the service is beyond compare.

Address: 452 Royalton Turnpike, Barnard, VT 05031

The Essex, Vermont's Culinary Resort & Spa

Courtesy of The Essex, Vermont's Culinary Resort & Spa

The Essex is a culinary resort, which means you'll not only get to eat some of the best food you've ever had, but you'll also get to prepare it. At the resort's Cook Academy, hands-on classes – designed for all skill levels – span cake decorating, curated dinners, brunch, sushi rolling, and Vermont beer and cheese pairings. Of course, The Essex also offers phenomenal dining options, notably Junction: an interactive, award-winning restaurant. Other highlights of the resort include a spa, pool and championship tennis courts. Reviewers say they enjoyed their stay at The Essex and also appreciated its close proximity – about 10 miles – to Burlington.

Address: 70 Essex Way, Essex, VT 05452

The Coffee Roost

Courtesy of Vermont Artisan Coffee & Tea

Wake up to the smell of fresh coffee beans at The Coffee Roost , an Airbnb located above a working coffee roaster. The modernly furnished apartment, which is accessible via a private entrance, features a cozy queen bed and a spacious, fully equipped kitchen with bar seating. Guests appreciate the uniqueness of this Airbnb, along with its close proximity to Stowe and Waterbury.

Address: 11 Cabin Lane, Waterbury Center, VT 05677

You might also be interested in:

• The Top Things to Do in New Hampshire
• The Top Things to Do in Maine
• The Top Things to Do in Rhode Island
• The Top Things to Do in Brooklyn
• The Top Romantic Getaways in New Hampshire
• The Top Romantic Getaways in Maine
• The Top Boston Harbor Cruises
• Romantic Hotels Worth a Stay
• The Top Travel Backpacks

Tags: Travel , New England Vacations , US Vacations

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Our mission is to serve the 50+ traveler who's ready to cross a few items off their bucket list.

9 Quaint Vermont Towns You Must Visit

Sean Pavone / Shutterstock

• Destinations
• New England
• United States

The long, narrow state of Vermont is bordered on the east by New Hampshire and the Connecticut River and on the west by New York. Between is the grandeur of the Green Mountains towering over fertile green valleys, home to small hamlets and villages that encourage a slower, more meditative way of life.

The four distinct Vermont seasons, each a unique adventure, will entice you to return to this lovely state again and again.

Here are nine of the state’s most charming towns to prioritize on a visit.

1. Shelburne

Shelburne, a suburb of the city of Burlington , is located on the shores of Lake Champlain. Renowned for its outdoor activities, Lake Champlain is a water lover’s paradise. With 587 miles of shoreline , the lake is a mecca for anyone wishing to enjoy gorgeous scenery and lakeside fun.

A stop at Shelburne Orchards will have you yearning for a simpler life. They are open seasonally in September and October for apple picking; stop in for their apple cider donuts and a hay ride. Don’t miss the apple brandy tasting and the family history behind their Dead Bird Brandy.

If discovering new wines and vineyards is up your alley, make time for the Shelburne Vineyard . Grab a seat with a vineyard view, order a flight, and let the afternoon glide into evening. The vineyard also offers private tastings — reservations are required a minimum of two weeks in advance. However, Ken Albert, founding and managing partner of Shelburne Vineyard noted, “we will do our best to accommodate last minute requests.”

If you’re traveling with the grandkids in tow, head to the Vermont Teddy Bear Company , which sells a multitude of bears, including giant 6-foot-tall bears, personalized new baby bears, and special occasion bears. They even have a wildlife collection including a flamingo, kitten, and unicorn. Take a tour of the factory, where you will discover how they take yards of soft, fuzzy cloth and create their huggable characters.

Pro Tip: You might want to stay in Shelburne for a day or more. The lodging directory assembled by the town is a handy guide for accommodation selection.

2. Waterbury

Discovering Waterbury is easy with the self-guided Waterbury Historical Tour . Requiring a combination of walking and driving (or biking), the tour provides an interesting, in-depth history of the town, its past residents, and its architecture.

Country stores across the town offer local goods and produce. Cold Hollow Cider Mill sells mouthwatering Vermont Cheddar, maple syrup, and cider donuts.

The hiking trails at Camel’s Hump State Park run the gamut. To view Camel’s Hump, try the very easy 0.8-mile Camel’s Hump View Trail. It is short and on a clear day provides a beautiful panoramic view of the hump. The 18.7-mile Camel’s Hump portion of the Long Trail is best suited for avid hikers.

Waterbury is also home to a thriving craft brew scene. If you are searching for a place to relax and unwind, Discover Waterbury offers a thorough list of brewery options.

Mark Prytherch / Shutterstock

Stowe is synonymous with skiing and the Stowe Mountain Resort , which offers everything you’d want from a resort area: year-round outdoor adventure, amazing local food, and spectacular panoramic views. The inspiring beauty of the mountain draws adventure lovers seeking the New England ski experience. The resort is located at the base of Mount Mansfield, the highest mountain in Vermont at 4,393 feet above sea level. The summit boasts the best views in the state.

The Trapp Family Lodge is a one-of-a-kind overnight accommodation in Stowe. The resort is steeped in old-world European tradition and offers spectacular Vermont views. This is a bucket-list stay for every Sound of Music fan.

meunierd / Shutterstock

4. Montpelier

This small town is the Vermont state capital. The Vermont State House is open to the public and is a beautiful example of Greek revival architecture. Visitor hours vary, so be sure to check the website before visiting. The State House Lawn is a well-utilized green space that hosts celebrations and events and is the perfect spot to relax and enjoy a lovely Vermont day.

The Vermont History Museum offers a glimpse into the history of Vermont’s people and places. Check out the exhibit highlighting the Long Trail , which runs 272 miles through Vermont, beginning at the Massachusetts border and continuing to the Canadian border. Another interesting exhibit, Freedom and Unity , covers the state’s history from the Abenaki people to the present day.

Hubbard Park is Montpelier’s treasured green space. It is the perfect place for a picnic lunch, and picnic tables dot the park for your convenience. Enjoy a climb up the tower for an unobstructed view of the beautiful city of Montpelier.

The New England Culinary Institute (NECI) was born in Montpelier. The students and staff of the institute currently run two establishments in town. At La Brioche Bakery & Cafe , you can partake of artisan breads, pastries, and other delights. NECI on Main offers local farm-to-table cuisine. The students begin their culinary journey in these restaurants, where they receive hands-on kitchen training. It is exciting to see the collaboration of educators and students presented beautifully on your plate.

MindStorm / Shutterstock

5. Woodstock

Woodstock is a classic quaint Vermont town with beautifully preserved historic buildings surrounding a center green. Enjoy an afternoon stroll around this charming village.

The Woodstock Inn & Resort provides the essence of New England casual luxury. The inn pampers overnight guests with opulently appointed rooms, world-class spa treatments, and sumptuous dining. Even if you’re not a guest, dining at the inn should be on your Vermont to-do list.

Quechee is home to Quechee State Park , which offers camping sites, hiking and cross-country skiing opportunities, and the beautiful Quechee Gorge. To hike Quechee Gorge, you’ll start out on well-groomed, handicap-accessible paths, but to finish the hike, you’ll have to navigate hillier, root-riddled paths. The reward is a splendid view of the gorge carved from glacial activity and the Ottauquechee River.

Quechee is also the home of Simon Pearce , known for his exquisite hand-blown glass. Located right on the river, his gallery is a beautiful spot for lunch and shopping.

Weston is a quiet town with a beautiful center green where residents and guests alike can enjoy the perfectly manicured lawn, shining white gazebo, shade trees, and colorful flowers.

The original Vermont Country Store calls Weston home. Their catalogs are jam-packed with country goods, and the store has all that and more. Part museum visit and part shopping adventure, a trip to The Vermont Country Store can easily turn into an afternoon of rediscovering childhood memories and shopping for items you can’t live without.

After your shopping expedition, cross the parking lot and have lunch at Mildred’s Dairy Bar . Don’t leave without trying the Maple Creemee. The delightful soft-serve maple ice cream is pure Vermont. Afterward, walk the half block to the center green, the perfect place to munch on your sandwich and kettle chips.

Don Shall / Flickr ( CC BY-NC-ND 2.0 )

Chester’s downtown historic district is lined with beautifully maintained homes, quaint shops, and classic inns. Park your car and walk around this lovely small town, or simply sit on a bench and enjoy the inviting charm and grace of Chester and her residents.

Just off of Main Street is the Stone Village , a row of 10 unique granite homes. Designed and built by Scottish settlers, they stand today as a reminder of Chester’s heritage.

MacLaomainn’s Scottish Pub is an ode to the cuisine of Scotland and New England. You will find an eclectic menu with starters like a haggis tasting plate and crab cakes. Entrees include mince and tatties, bangers and mash, and fish pie. Burgers and pizza are an option for the less adventurous.

Chester’s Inn Victoria celebrates everything Victorian. The moment you step into the front parlor, the antiques will transport you to bygone days of luxury. Innkeeper Penny Cote’s passion for tea is reflected in her teapot collection, extensive tea options, and weekend high tea events. Whether you stay the night or just visit for afternoon tea, you will be treated like royalty.

LEE SNIDER PHOTO IMAGES / Shutterstock

9. Manchester

Manchester is home to Hildene , Robert Lincoln’s family home, a Georgian revival mansion with formal gardens and a farm. The estate houses a 1903 Pullman car; Robert was the president of the Pullman Company, and the Many Voices exhibit describes the difficult life of a Pullman porter.

The American Museum of Fly Fishing is perfectly at home in Manchester. Vermont, a state rich in fresh mountain waters, is an angler’s dream. The museum houses a collection of more than 40,000 items related to fly fishing.

Stop at Mother Myrick’s Confectionery for a special sweet treat to fuel your afternoon.

Sandi loves writing about culture, cuisine, adult beverages, cruising, golf, skiing, road trips, hiking, New England, and photography. Traveling solo, with hubby Chris, or the entire Barrett clan there is always a story waiting to be told.

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10 Best Places to Visit in Vermont

Vermont is a state that begs to be photographed. The entire state is like a gigantic picture postcard that is filled with scenic beauty at every turn, historic buildings and towns that are considered some of the prettiest in the United States.

Fall is a delight as the leaves turn their gorgeous colors. Winter is great for skiing and snow activities. Spring and summer offer a plethora of festivals and outdoor activities, such as camping and hiking. Yep, Vermont’s got it all. Here’s a look at the best places to visit in Vermont:

10. Woodstock

When you hear Woodstock, your first thought is probably of the famous music festival. You’d be wrong: wrong state. Vermont’s Woodstock is far, far from a rock festival. It’s a sleepy village that has been described as quaint meets charming.

This picture postcard village is considered one of the prettiest small towns in America, and has the plaque to prove it. It’s a place to drive over a picturesque red covered bridge, visit a sugar maple farm, breathe in the crisp air as you hike in the surrounding mountains and shop at unique boutiques and galleries.

9. Quechee Gorge

Quechee Gorge is Vermont’s answer to the Grand Canyon. Not as big as its cousin in the distant West, it still provides some pretty views. At 165 feet deep, it is the deepest gorge in the Green Mountain state. The gorge was formed by glacial action 13,000 years ago.

The Ottauquechee River provides exciting whitewater rafting at the bottom. Less adventurous travelers can walk to Mill Pond Falls that cascade down 30 feet. The historic Quechee Gorge Bridge connects the banks. Built in 1911; it is Vermont’s oldest surviving steel arch bridge.

8. Manchester

Manchester has many things going for it. It’s an historic town that makes a good base from which to explore the Green Mountains. It’s got lots of shopping, including outlet malls that attract people from New York and Connecticut .

Named after an English duke of Manchester, the town first made history between 1812 and 1819 for being the home of America’s first wrongful murder conviction case, a case that’s studied even today. Most historic towns in Vermont only have one historic district, but Manchester has three: Depot district, and Bonnet and Main streets.

7. Montpelier

Montpelier has the dubious distinction of being the least populated state capital in the United States. At least it is at night; the daytime population triples as people come to work for the state government. The city is named for a city in France in honor of that country’s contributions during the American Revolution.

Visiting the State House is the No. 1 thing to do in Montpelier, but if you’ve got a sweet tooth, you’ll want to visit a maple sugar/syrup factory. Stop by the statue of Ethan Allen, a Revolutionary War hero and a founder of Vermont.

6. Shelburne

Shelburne is a quiet town seven miles south of Burlington, the Vermont’s largest city. Founded in 1763, it was named for William Petty, earl of Shelburne and British prime minister. It has deep roots in farming, and several farms, including vineyards, are open to the public.

Its most visited attraction, however, just may be one devoted to making your kids happy. Open for tours, the Vermont Teddy Bear Co. has been making cute, cuddly teddy bears since 1981, and is one of Vermont’s more popular attractions. If you like water better, Shelburne is located on Lake Champlain.

5. Killington Resort

If you’re an adventuresome skier, you may want to hit the slopes at Killington Resort on Vermont’s second highest mountain. It’s known as the “beast of the East” because it’s the largest vertical drop in New England. Killington, which opened in 1958, is the largest ski area in the eastern United States.

While Killington Peak is the primary ski area, the resort also offers skiing across six mountains. There are 155 trails that handle skiers from beginners to experts and 21 lifts to carry them up the mountains. A few of the trails have ramps and jumps.

Grafton, considered one of New England’s prettiest towns, got its name in a unique way. Originally known as Thomlinson, the right to rename it garnered $5 and some rum in an action; the winning bidder named it after his home town of Grafton, Massachusetts.

Homes and buildings have been restored to their historic grandeur, so Grafton looks pretty much like It might have a century or two ago. Be sure to check out the Grafton Inn, which has been operating as a hotel since 1801. Standing guard over the village is the iconic White Church that was built in 1858.

3. Champlain Islands

When the outdoors beckons, the Champlain Islands are one of the best places to visit in Vermont. The islands are an archipelago, perhaps a total of 30 miles long, located in Lake Champlain that separates Vermont and New York.

Reachable by ferry, they provide some of the most scenic drives in Vermont, a state that is known for scenic drives. In the summer, you can camp, visit the state’s first vineyard or cycle the scenic Island Line Trail. You can go ice-fishing in the winter. And, best of all, you won’t have to worry about running into a lot of other people since the largest town in the chain counts only 2,000 residents.

Stowe keeps visitors busy all year ‘round. There’s skiing and snow sports in the winter, and festivals, including one featuring balloons, and art shows in the summer. One of the biggest is September’s British Invasion, when fields are filled with all makes and models of British automobiles.

Stowe is a must-visit if you’re a Sound of Music fan. It’s where the von Trapp family settled and operated a ski lodge after they fled Austria during World War II. The lodge’s meadow was a venue for the Vermont Mozart Festival. You can also hike and mountain-bike on nearby trails.

1. Burlington

OK. Admit it. You love ice cream, especially if it’s made by Ben and Jerry. Burlington may be known for many things, but it’s likely most famous as the home of this sinfully delicious ice cream. The town is located on the shores of Lake Champlain, so there are plenty of water activities to burn off those calories.

The four-block pedestrian mall known as Church Street Marketplace hosts a variety of festivals throughout the year. They range from art to celebrating beer and giant pumpkins. It also hosts one of the largest year ‘round farmers markets in Vermont.

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January 2, 2020 at 11:50 am

Woodstock not listed in voting!!!

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This small Vermont town is throwing a big solar eclipse party

In the town of St. Johnsbury, Vermont, everyone’s got their head in the clouds, and for good reason.

“There has been quite a buzz going on," says Mark Breen, senior meteorologist and planetarium director at the Fairbanks Museum, Vermont's only public planetarium. "And we're probably part of the reason because we started talking about it.”

The “it” he refers to is — of course — the 2024 total solar eclipse.

“As it turns out, this is the only planetarium in all of New England that's in the path of the eclipse," said Breen. "I'm bubbling ... I've been here for 40 years, and this is going to be an absolutely unique marker in my time here.”

This quaint town on the edge of Vermont’s Northeast Kingdom has been making more than its share of headlines recently, since it falls in the path of totality — a cosmic coincidence that is expected to draw an estimated 200,000 visitors to the state.

Admittedly, that makes some of the locals a little nervous.

“I think people are super duper excited, but there's also a lot of stuff about like, 'where am I going to get eclipse glasses? I heard a lot of people are going to come. Do we know exactly how many?' And the answer for us is always we have no idea,” said Ama Jones, one of the planetarium's resident AmeriCorps educators. She's approaching the big day with optimism — and caution.

“We're closing off roads and stuff, so there's a lot of preplanning to go into this,” said Jones.

A three-hour drive from both Boston and Montreal, located just off three interstate highways, and home to the only planetarium in New England on the path of totality, St. Johnsbury seems perfectly positioned to be one of the top destinations to experience the celestial phenomenon in all of New England.

“My boss told me to plan for the eclipse like it's a natural disaster. So just, like, put gas in your car, because there will be people who show up and all the gas will be missing. Get cash from the ATM because people will get here and realize they didn't have cash," Jones said. "And I'm not going anywhere. Whatever I needed to do the day or weekend of the eclipse, I don't anymore.”

For a small, rural town, St. Johnsbury punches well above its weight in the cultural sphere. Complete with a gilded Athenaeum and first-class preparatory school, much of St. Johnsbury’s infrastructure can be traced back to the Fairbanks family, after which the planetarium was named.

“They invented the platform scale. It was this amazing invention. It became a worldwide product. There's still Fairbanks scales today," said Breen. "It became a very prosperous town starting, say, around the time of the Civil War, a little bit before that. But because you had these industrial philanthropists, you ended up with some pretty amazing buildings, facilities in a really small community. “

Still, there was a time not so long ago when St. Johnsbury had more vacant storefronts than filled. Gillian Sewake, director of the designated downtown organization called Discover St.Johnsbury, remembers a time when degraded and dilapidated structures peppered the heart of the town.

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“So St. Johnsbury, like a lot of other rural towns ... has had challenges with outmigration, with blight, with drugs, with crime. This has happened everywhere, with just the change of the manufacturing base in a lot of our communities," Sewake said. "And so St. Johnsbury had quite a lot of large employers closing in the 80s, 90s, and 2000s.”

But to be clear, a megawatt solar eclipse event isn’t something that is happening to the town. This is a party they are actively throwing, and not just because there’s a science museum here. Organizations have been working for decades to reimagine St. Johnsbury as a small town where big things can happen.

“We're building up our infrastructure here. We're building up our ability to accept this kind of activity into the community. We want to be at a place where our events in this small little town attract 5,000 to 10,000 people routinely," said Gillian. In planning for the solar eclipse festivities, the town has laid the groundwork for logistics like parking and shuttles for future town events. "We have the relationships built up with the town so that the permitting process is smoother next time around.”

This sort of cross-organizational cooperation is a hallmark of St. Johnsbury today. When Breen at the planetarium needed a stage to host his live eclipse broadcast, Jody Fried executive director of local arts organization Catamount Arts, came to the rescue with a free portable stage.

“The positive benefits often come in the six months to a year that follows,” Fried says, “but what happens is people come to a place for the first time, and if they feel welcomed, if they have a positive experience, it spurs their curiosity. And it might be two or three-day trips, it might be one amazing event, but what you hope is that for a percentage of those folks, this becomes one of their places.”

Bob Joly, director of the St. Johnsbury Athenaeum, has observed the slow and steady progress his community has made transforming itself into a vital cultural hub in Vermont's Green Mountains.

“I think there's a great vibe here ... And while this was in some ways a typical 19th-century-that-had-its-heyday-all-long-gone town, it is a very cool place with some neat things, and people are finally discovering it.”

For Breen at the planetarium, he says an event like this and coordination with a variety of community groups will leave a lasting impact on the town.

“I think people are going to be talking about this for years and years and years, especially if it is clear out. This is going to be this wonderful town memory."

Experts say there is a 70% chance of rain or clouds in this part of the country on any given April 8 — not ideal for a once in a lifetime event in the skies. Still, that hasn’t deterred these Vermonters. Beating the odds is something they’ve gotten pretty good at in St. Johnsbury.

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The solar eclipse could deliver a $6 billion economic boom: "The whole community is sold out"

By Aimee Picchi

Edited By Alain Sherter

April 6, 2024 / 6:00 AM EDT / CBS News

Steve Wright said he first heard about the total eclipse on April 8 four years ago, when a visitor booked the first room for the event at Vermont's Jay Peak Resort. Wright, the resort's general manager, said he soon started hearing rumblings from other ski areas. 

"They said, 'The hype is real'," he recalled, adding that he's never seen anything quite like the visitor excitement over the eclipse.

That early prediction turned out to be prescient, with Wright noting that all of Jay Peak's 900 rooms have been fully booked for April 7 — at a cost of about $500 per night — for a year and a half. By comparison, the resort had roughly 80 bookings on the same day last year. Roughly 800 rooms are booked for April 8, the day of the eclipse. 

Indeed, tourists are getting into the spirit of the rare celestial event, a major boon for local businesses across the eclipse's direct path. 

One couple is getting married at the 4,000 summit of Jay Peak during the eclipse, while the resort will have a Pink Floyd cover band paying "The Dark Side of the Moon" at the base. And with more than a foot of snow forecast to arrive just ahead of the eclipse, skiers are also likely to hit the slopes as the moon and the sun align. 

Wright said he expects his resort to book as much revenue over the April 5-8 weekend as it typically would during the entire month of April. 

"It has been well advertised that we're at the end of the path of totality and we will have the best look at the eclipse, at over three and a half minutes," he told CBS MoneyWatch, adding the event is giving a boost not just to Jay Peak, but to the entire region, a rural part of Vermont that is known for scenic farms and ski areas. "The whole community is sold out."

The total solar eclipse isn't just throwing shade across the dozen states in line for the astronomical event — it's also shining an economic bonanza on states from Texas to Vermont. The eclipse could bring a financial boost of as much as $6 billion, thanks to increased spending on hotels, restaurants and travel, according to an estimate from the Perryman Group, an economic analysis firm. 

"It is amazing how much this has captured the imagination," Ray Perryman, an economist and CEO of the Perryman Group, told CBS MoneyWatch. "It'll be concentrated in a short period of time, but it does give these cities an opportunity to show themselves off, including the smaller cities."

The eclipse is likely to jolt local economies partly because of its timing, Perryman noted. Americans have returned to their pre-pandemic travel habits, while the event is occurring in spring, when people are more likely to want to travel than in winter. 

"There's also the fact that we won't have another eclipse like this for many years," he said.

Tthe next total solar eclipse visible in the U.S. won't occur until 2045, according to NASA.

"It's not only a scientific phenomenon, but an emotional one as well," Dan Schneiderman, the eclipse partnership coordinator at the Rochester Museum of Science, told CBS News. 

Bill Nye and Dark Side Stout

April 8 will bring viewing parties across cities both large and small that lie in the eclipse's path. Events range from the Eclipse-O-Rama 2024 with science expert Bill Nye in Fredericksburg, Texas, at $325 per ticket, to a NASA-sponsored gathering  at the Indianapolis Motor Speedway (a more budget-conscious $20 per ticket.)

Companies also are issuing special commemorative items to draw people to their viewing parties, such as Rohrback Brewing Co. in Rochester, New York (a city in the path of the totality), which is making the Rohrbach Totality Black Lager. Switchback Brewery in Burlington, Vermont — another city that will witness the totality — will release Dark Side Stout for attendees at its April 8 event. 

"It's a great opportunity to market our city, and as a place where people might want to live one day,"  Malik Evans, the mayor of Rochester, New York, a Rust Belt city whose fortunes have drifted as once powerful manufacturing companies like Xerox and Eastman Kodak declined, told CBS News. 

Texas is forecast to enjoy the biggest economic gains at about $1.4 billion, according to Perryman's estimates. He said that's partly due to Texas' large population and to the number of big cities, like Austin and Dallas, that are in the path of the totality. 

Vermont, whose population of 650,000 makes it the second-smallest state in the nation, is expecting as many as 200,000 people to come to the state to witness the eclipse, CBS Boston reported . Its economic boost could reach $230 million, one of the smaller financial impacts for the states in the path of the eclipse, Perryman projected. Still, it's a significant bump for a state with annual GDP of about $43 billion. 

How much do solar eclipse glasses cost?

Americans are also spending on gear to properly watch the eclipse because gazing at the event without eye protection can permanently damage your vision. Sunglasses don't offer enough shielding to prevent harm to your eyes, either. 

Instead, people should buy solar eclipse glasses that have been approved by the American Astronomical Society and adhere to the ISO 12312-2 standard. A six-pack of glasses with this standard can be found at Amazon for about $16, or less than $3 a pair. 

But consumers can also pick up eclipse glasses as promotions at various retailers . For instance, Sonic Drive-In is now selling a Blackout Slush Float, with each purchase of the celestial-inspired drink coming with a free pair of eclipse viewing glasses. Eyeglass company Warby Parker is also giving away eclipse-viewing glasses through April 8. 

Even though the totality itself will only last a few minutes on April 8, businesses could get a boost all weekend, Perryman noted.

"It's almost a like a concert that causes people to come into town, but they might do other things and see other things," he noted. "I'm intrigued by the benefit for the small towns."

Aimee Picchi is the associate managing editor for CBS MoneyWatch, where she covers business and personal finance. She previously worked at Bloomberg News and has written for national news outlets including USA Today and Consumer Reports.

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• “Equivalent to having 50 Super Bowls”: The staggering — and lucrative — scale of eclipse tourism

More people will travel for this event than for one of the country’s biggest games.

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Share All sharing options for: “Equivalent to having 50 Super Bowls”: The staggering — and lucrative — scale of eclipse tourism

The biggest US travel event of this year might not be Taylor Swift’s sold-out concert tour or a long-awaited March Madness face-off .

Instead, it could well be the upcoming solar eclipse on April 8 , which could see as many as 4 million people in the US journeying to view it. This year’s total solar eclipse is particularly special for the US: Although the phenomenon happens globally every 18 months , this one will be visible across a huge swath of the country, making witnessing it more accessible. Plus, the eclipse is expected to last longer than the prior one did in 2017, adding to its allure.

The big questions about solar eclipses

• Why is this year’s event different?
• What are eclipse chasers?
• How to protect your eyes
• What is the economic impact?
• What makes eclipses thrilling to watch?
• Will the eclipse affect the energy grid?
• When is the next one?

When it comes to the scale of travel we can expect, it’s “equivalent to having 50 Super Bowls simultaneously from Texas to Maine,” says Michael Zeiler, who helps run the Great American Eclipse website. Such tourism is set to generate upward of $1 billion in revenue across numerous cities, from Austin, Texas, to Rochester, New York. These cities will all be prime places to see the eclipse, which will be fully visible in parts of the southern US, the Midwest, and New England.

NASA's interactive map shows best times, places to watch total solar eclipse https://t.co/KMh6vmdvdM — ABC7 Eyewitness News (@ABC7) April 3, 2024

Hotels and campgrounds in places where the full eclipse will be visible have long been sold out, with tens of thousands of visitors expected to flock to these cities. “This is likely going to be the single biggest tourism event we’ve ever had,” Michael Pakko, a University of Arkansas economist, tells the Washington Post , regarding the more than $100 million in revenue the state is expecting. Towns and businesses are also going all out by investing in eclipse music festivals, theme park rides, and viewing parties.

Those traveling for this year’s eclipse join a long tradition of eclipse-chasers, who’ve been in awe of these events and who revel in sharing this communal experience. The rarity of such phenomena and the opportunity to enjoy them simultaneously with others bolsters their draw, experts say. The interest in eclipse tourism also comes as people’s willingness to travel has rebounded following the pandemic .

“The simple now-or-never of an eclipse is extremely motivating,” Jaime Kurtz , a psychology professor at James Madison University, told Vox. “The collective enthusiasm for the eclipse might also be a driving force. It’s unifying.”

There’s something about eclipses

Eclipse-chasers, or people who seek out eclipses when they happen, are drawn to this phenomena because of how unique it is, how infrequently it happens, and how much wonder it inspires. Some also have a specific interest in astronomy and space, and see eclipses as a way to explore that.

“It lifts you out of your everyday experience, and is such a remarkable feeling to be suddenly enveloped by a wave of darkness for a few minutes; it’s like standing on the surface of an alien planet,” said Zeiler, who has seen 11 eclipses on six continents. Zeiler traces a growing trend of eclipse tourism to the 1970s, when a group of astronomy enthusiasts first organized a cruise off the coast of Nova Scotia to see a solar eclipse. Since then, traveling to see eclipses has only become more popular as fascination with the phenomena has grown.

“No matter what I do, no matter how much I describe it, no matter how many videos you watch, they all fall short of being able to witness this for yourself,” Fred Espenak, an astrophysicist and eclipse-chaser, told Vox’s Brian Resnick and Joss Fong .

The event is also rarely visible to this degree in the US. In 2017, the eclipse had a narrower “path of totality,” or a smaller area where it could be seen in full from start to finish. This year, 31.6 million people already live in that larger path, making it easier for people to travel to it. And the next total solar eclipse to be visible in the US isn’t expected until the 2040s, which makes the upcoming one a prized experience.

“One of the reasons that we get value from experiences is because we think of them as less interchangeable than other ways that we could spend our money,“ Amit Kumar , a marketing and psychology professor at the University of Texas at Austin, told Vox.

Eclipses are also a singular event because so many people across the country — and world — are witnessing the same thing at the same time, fueling a feeling of connectivity and community that can be particularly powerful, Kumar said.

The desire to share in that feeling is just one factor that helps explain the high numbers of people willing to travel for this phenomenon, with local economies reaping benefits in the process. “Each eclipse is different. And that’s why we keep going again and again,” says Zeiler.

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Everything you need to know about the 2024 solar eclipse.

• The terrifying and awesome power of solar eclipses
• She’s been chasing solar eclipses for three decades. What’s she after?

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When will solar eclipse reach your town? These maps show path's timing, how long it lasts.

Hundreds of cities in 13 u.s. states fall directly on the april 8 eclipse's path of totality as the moon blocks the sun's disc and ushers in darkness. these interactive maps offer a closer look..

Come Monday, millions of Americans from Texas to Maine will stop what they're doing to step outside and spend a few minutes gazing skyward .

Few celestial events have the power to capture our collective attention the way this upcoming total solar eclipse has managed to do. And for those making time to witness it, two questions are bound to be on their mind : Will totality reach my area and if so, how long will the resulting darkness last?

Most people across the country are bound to experience the eclipse in some form, but only 13 states fall directly on the path of totality, where the moon will appear large enough to shield all but the sun's outermost layer, the corona.

As you make your eclipse-viewing plans, these interactive maps should help you chart the time and duration for when totality will occur in cities along the path.

Solar eclipse experiment: Here's why NASA is launching 3 sounding rockets into space during the total solar eclipse

Total solar eclipse path of totality map

The 115-mile-wide path of totality will pass from southwest to northeast over portions of Mexico the United States and Canada.

Mexico's Pacific coast will be the first location in continental North America to experience totality, which will occur at about 11:07 a.m. PDT,  according to NASA .

As the moon's shadow travels northeast, totality in the U.S. will begin at 1:27 p.m. CDT in Eagle Pass, Texas. From there, the path will cut diagonally across the country before ending around 3:35 p.m. EDT in Lee, Maine.

Remember: If you plan to witness the eclipse, proper eyewear is a must until the eclipse reaches totality, then it can be viewed with the naked eye.

Here's a map of some of the larger cities in each of the 13 states on the path to show how the duration of totality will vary:

Cities, states on the path of totality

All told, nearly 500 cities in 13 U.S. states are located on the eclipse's path of totality. Here are some of the major cities in each of the 13 states:

• Dallas and San Antonio, Texas
• Idabel, Oklahoma
• Poplar Bluff, Missouri
• Little Rock, Arkansas
• Paducah, Kentucky
• Indianapolis and Evansville, Indiana
• Carbondale, Illinois
• Cleveland and Toledo, Ohio
• Buffalo, Rochester and Syracuse, New York
• Burlington, Vermont
• Lancaster, New Hampshire
• Caribou, Maine
• Erie, Pennsylvania

This interactive map provides a closer look at cities along the path, when totality will arrive there and how long totality will last:

Eclipse watch parties, festivals

Such a rare event is sure to attract skygazing tourists unlucky enough to live outside the path of totality. Fortunately, many cities that will experience the total eclipse are planning plenty of festivities for tourists and locals alike.

This map , courtesy of Kristian Campana at festivalguidesandreviews.com , includes locations of watch parties, music festivals and more all tied to the eclipse's arrival:

2024 total solar eclipse interactive map with zip code search

Perhaps the easiest way to see how the eclipse will impact your city or town, is to put your zip code into USA TODAY's interactive eclipse map .

Eric Lagatta covers breaking and trending news for USA TODAY. Reach him at [email protected]

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July 26 – August 4, 2024 Celebrate the beloved blueberry with 10 days of fun and festivities in the Deerfield Valley region. Historic downtowns light up with a block party and street fair while harvesting activities and adventures abound throughout the valley.

Dog Mountain Summer Dog Party

August 3, 2024 The Dog Mountain Summer Dog Party invites dogs and their owners to revel in the joys of summer. Live music, food trucks, and local vendors, a Doggie Walk of Fame and Dog Contests create a lively atmosphere.

Autumn Showcase

Sunflower house.

August – September 2024 This awe-inspiring spectacle of vibrant colors spans 20,000 square feet at Billings Farm & Museum. Wander through this living floral masterpiece, taking in the breathtaking palette of orange, red, and golden yellow.

Garlic Town, USA

August 31, 2024 Every Labor Day Weekend, Bennington Vermont becomes “Garlic Town, USA” in honor of all things garlic and agriculture. This acclaimed festival boasts over 130 vendors, live music, chef demos, and kids’ activities.

Whoopie Pie Festival

September 14, 2024 Sample delicious whoopie pies from vendors across the East and witness the assembly of a massive whoopie pie by the Dream Maker Bakers Team. Enjoy entertainment, activities, and tasty food options.

Vermont Wine & Harvest Festival

September 20 – 21, 2024 From downtown Wilmington’s Wine & Soup Stroll to the picturesque Mount Snow venue, indulge in the finest wines, soups, and artisanal products from across the region over two days.

Vermont International Film Festival

October 18 – 27, 2024 Experience the magic of cinema at the Vermont International Film Festival, a 10-day celebration of diverse, independent films from around the globe. Join filmmakers, panelists, and special guests for post-film Q&As and reception in Burlington.

Winter Showcase

Stowe Winter Carnival January 2025

Watch professional ice carvers create stunning sculptures throughout the village, then experience the NICA-sanctioned Ice Carving Competition. Enjoy activities for all ages, including ski movies, kids’ carnival fun, and sports tournaments like Snowgolf and Snowvolleyball.

Harris Hill Ski Jump February 2025

Experience the 103-year-old tradition of international ski jumping at Harris Hill Ski Jump, New England’s only Olympic-size jump. Witness jumpers aiming to break the 341-foot hill record, soaring at speeds of up to 60 miles per hour.

Celebrate Sugaring Season

Vermont Maple Festival

Vermont sugar makers produce more pure maple syrup than any other state in the U.S. The Vermont Maple Festival celebrates the state’s signature crop, maple syrup. Enjoy a variety of activities, including sugarhouse tours, cooking and product contests, craft shows, antique displays, pancake breakfasts, numerous kids’ activities, and a vibrant parade , during this weekend-long festival in the city of St. Albans.

Whenever you’re visiting and whatever you’re planning, there’s a Vermont event to complement your trip. Browse the calendar by date, location, event type and topic, and more.

Year-Round Pride

Vermont Celebrates Pride With Events All Year

With the highest rate of same-sex couples in the nation, it’s not surprising that Vermont is home to a myriad of events that celebrate Pride. Even after Pride Month passes, Vermont serves up thrilling year-round activities that will keep you coming back for more.

Vermont’s Events Venues

Brattleboro Stone Church

In downtown Brattleboro, the 147-year-old Stone Church offers an unforgettable atmosphere to experience music.

4 Performing Arts Venues in Northern Vermont

Check out these four independent performing arts spaces in northern Vermont for inspiring performances.

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See Maps of Where Eclipse Seekers Flocked and the Traffic That Followed

Movement data shows the destinations with the greatest influx of people.

By Charlie Smart

PATH OF TOTALITY

St. Johnsbury

Adirondack Park

Ste. Genevieve

Ozarks region

Greater increase

in activity

Texas Hill Country

Note: The map shows change in movement activity on Monday, compared with an average of the movement activity on the previous four Mondays.

Source: Mapbox (movement data)

Monday’s solar eclipse drew huge crowds to the path of totality, temporarily ballooning the populations of small towns and rural areas across the country. The map above shows an estimate of where human activity increased the most on Monday, compared with that on an average Monday, according to data from Mapbox, an online mapping company.

Some towns in the path of totality expected their populations to double, and the data — drawn from mobile-device activity — showed such increases in many places.

Among the towns with more than 100 percent increases in activity were St. Johnsbury, Vt.; Lancaster, N.H.; and Ste. Geneviève, Mo. State parks like the Adirondack Park in New York and many areas in the Ozarks region of Arkansas and Missouri were also popular destinations. The data includes activity for the entire day and also shows a pattern of movement away from the path of totality, as seen in the darker areas on the edges of the path in the map above.

Around midafternoon Monday came the main event: the moment of totality, when the moon moved fully in front of the sun, turning daylight to darkness. That climax lasted only a few minutes, and then eclipse watchers started their trips home or to hotels.

Source: TomTom

Traffic was stopped or delayed along some highways more than eight hours later, according to data from TomTom, a mapping and navigation company. Officials in many parts of the country had warned of snarled traffic, and roads in the Northeast — from New York to Maine — had the greatest concentration of hourslong delays.

Interstate 87 in New York had a line of traffic more than 55 miles long around 6 p.m., and cars were still backed up for miles at 11 p.m. on Interstate 93 in New Hampshire, more than seven hours after the eclipse, according to TomTom.

On a normal weekday afternoon, the 210-mile drive from Burlington, Vt., to Somerville, Mass., takes about three and a half hours. On Monday, the same trip took Liam Sullivan, 26, of Somerville, more than nine hours after watching the eclipse.

“The worst part was that in the first four hours we only went about 40 miles,” Mr. Sullivan said. “A solid marathoner is beating our pace there. It was completely hopeless congestion the entire time.”

Eclipse watchers in Burlington, Vt., at Lake Champlain.

Cassandra Klos for The New York Times

Interstate 93 in New Hampshire many hours after the eclipse.

Nick Perry/Associated Press

While drivers in the Northeast faced the worst of the delays, there were also long traffic jams outside of Indianapolis, St. Louis and Columbus, Ohio.

Traffic delays at 9 p.m. Eastern time

Indianapolis

“It was definitely the worst traffic I’ve ever seen in my life,” said Richard Chen, who spent nine hours driving from Newport, Vt. to his home in Brooklyn, N.Y., after the eclipse.

Despite the traffic, Mr. Chen said he didn’t see any road rage. “I think people were just kind of thrilled to witness the eclipse, and the traffic and road tripping was just part of the experience,” he said.

Was the drive worth it? For Mr. Chen, there was no question. “Definitely,” he said, noting that the next major U.S. eclipse will take place in 2045.

Mr. Sullivan wasn’t so sure. He said that the eclipse was stunning and that he was grateful to witness it but added: “If you told me yesterday how long it would take, I would have gone back to bed.”

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