15 Best Things to Do in Vermont

Imagine a place where emerald mountains meet sparkling lakes, where the scent of maple syrup hangs in the crisp air, and every turn reveals a charming village steeped in history. Welcome to Vermont, a New England gem that promises an unforgettable escape from the everyday. This isn’t just a destination; it’s an experience for the senses, a journey into picturesque landscapes, innovative culinary delights, and a vibrant cultural tapestry.

From the iconic fall foliage that paints the hills in fiery hues to the serene beauty of summer and the cozy charm of winter, Vermont offers something magical in every season. While autumn’s vibrant display is world-renowned, visiting in late spring or summer allows you to fully enjoy outdoor activities and longer daylight hours. You will discover a state that champions local craftsmanship, sustainable living, and a refreshing sense of community. Get ready to explore its hidden treasures and celebrated landmarks, each offering a unique story and an invitation to create your own cherished memories.

The Bennington Battle Monument

Standing proudly in Bennington, the Bennington Battle Monument is a towering symbol of American independence and a must-visit for history enthusiasts. This impressive stone obelisk commemorates the Battle of Bennington, a pivotal Revolutionary War engagement fought on August 16, 1777. While the battle itself took place just over the border in New York, the monument stands in Vermont as a testament to the local militia’s crucial role in securing victory against British forces.

What makes this place truly unique is the opportunity to ascend to the observation deck, offering breathtaking panoramic views of the surrounding Green Mountains, the Hoosic Valley, and even parts of Massachusetts and New York on a clear day. You will learn about the strategic importance of the battle, which significantly weakened General Burgoyne’s forces before the Saratoga campaign. The monument grounds are serene, perfect for a contemplative stroll, and the visitor center provides insightful exhibits detailing the history of the battle and the monument’s construction. This attraction is ideal for history buffs, families with older children, and anyone seeking spectacular vistas.

Lake Champlain

Stretching over 120 miles and forming a natural border with New York, Lake Champlain is a magnificent freshwater lake offering an incredible array of activities and stunning natural beauty. This vast body of water is not just a scenic backdrop; it’s an ecosystem teeming with life, from diverse fish species to the legendary “Champy,” the lake monster, adding a touch of mystery to your visit. You can explore its shores, which are dotted with charming towns like Burlington, Shelburne, and Plattsburgh, each offering unique experiences. Popular activities include sailing, kayaking, paddleboarding, and swimming at one of its many beaches.

Fishing is also a major draw, with opportunities for bass, pike, and salmon. For a more relaxed experience, consider a scenic ferry ride or a sunset cruise to truly appreciate the lake’s grandeur. The Lake Champlain Islands, connected by causeways, offer picturesque drives, vineyards, and apple orchards. This destination is perfect for outdoor enthusiasts, families, couples, and anyone looking to unwind by the water or embark on an aquatic adventure.

Cedar Circle Farm

Cedar Circle Farm and Education Center in East Thetford is more than just a farm; it’s a vibrant hub for organic agriculture, community engagement, and delicious food. This certified organic farm invites you to experience sustainable farming firsthand, offering a unique opportunity to connect with the land and understand where your food comes from. You can wander through their beautiful fields, pick your own strawberries, blueberries, or pumpkins in season, and learn about their ecological practices.

The farm’s market offers an abundance of fresh, organic produce, baked goods, and local products, perfect for stocking up on healthy snacks or souvenirs. Their delightful farm kitchen and cafe serve up farm-to-table meals, using ingredients straight from their fields, making for an incredibly fresh and flavorful dining experience. Seasonal events, workshops, and educational programs are frequently held, making it a dynamic place for families, foodies, and anyone interested in sustainable living to spend a few hours or even a full day. It’s a wonderfully wholesome and educational outing.

The Tallest Filing Cabinet

In the quirky town of Burlington, you’ll stumble upon one of Vermont’s most delightfully odd attractions: The Tallest Filing Cabinet. This unusual public art installation, created by local artist Bren Alvarez in 2002, is exactly what it sounds like – a stack of 38 filing cabinets reaching an impressive 40 feet into the sky. It’s not a functional cabinet, but rather a whimsical sculpture that represents the mundane aspects of bureaucracy and information overload in a humorous, monumental way.

Located near the waterfront, it stands as a testament to Burlington’s creative spirit and its appreciation for the unconventional. While you won’t spend hours here, it’s a fantastic spot for a unique photo opportunity and a moment of lighthearted reflection. It’s a quick, free stop that adds a touch of playful charm to your Vermont itinerary, perfect for those who enjoy discovering offbeat roadside attractions and urban art. You can easily combine a visit here with a stroll along the waterfront or a trip to nearby downtown Burlington.

Robert Frost Homestead and Burial Plot

Step into the serene world of one of America’s most beloved poets at the Robert Frost Homestead and Burial Plot in Shaftsbury. This humble farm was home to Robert Frost and his family for many years, and it’s where he wrote some of his most iconic poems, including “Stopping by Woods on a Snowy Evening.” What makes this site so special is its authenticity; it’s preserved much as it was when Frost lived and worked here, allowing you to truly feel his presence and the inspiration he drew from the Vermont landscape. You can explore the farmhouse, the barn, and the surrounding fields and woods, gaining insight into the rural life that shaped his verse.

Guided tours often provide fascinating anecdotes about his life and creative process. The nearby Old First Church cemetery holds his burial plot, a peaceful final resting place marked by a simple stone. This attraction is a profound experience for literary enthusiasts, quiet contemplation, and anyone seeking a deeper connection to American cultural heritage. It’s a reflective and contemplative visit.

Shelburne Museum

The Shelburne Museum, located just south of Burlington, is an extraordinary and eclectic collection of art, Americana, and architecture spread across 45 acres. It’s not a typical museum; rather, it’s an open-air campus featuring 39 historic buildings, including a lighthouse, a steamboat, a covered bridge, and even a completely furnished 19th-century jail, all relocated and preserved. What makes this museum truly unique is its founder, Electra Havemeyer Webb, whose diverse collecting interests resulted in a fascinating array of objects, from impressionist paintings and folk art to antique toys and horse-drawn carriages.

You could spend an entire day exploring the different buildings, each a mini-museum in itself, filled with captivating exhibits that tell stories of American life and craftsmanship. The museum offers a delightful blend of indoor and outdoor experiences, making it perfect for families, history buffs, art lovers, and anyone who appreciates a truly unique and immersive cultural journey. Be prepared for a lot of walking and discovery.

Vermont Country Store

A trip to Vermont wouldn’t be complete without a stop at The Vermont Country Store in Weston or Rockingham. This iconic general store is a nostalgic journey back in time, offering a charming blend of practical goods and whimsical delights. What makes it special is its commitment to “purveyors of the practical and hard-to-find,” stocking everything from classic apparel and kitchenware to old-fashioned candies, unique gifts, and Vermont-made products.

You will discover shelves overflowing with items you thought had disappeared, alongside new favorites. The atmosphere is warm and inviting, with wooden floors and a friendly staff, evoking the spirit of a bygone era. It’s more than just a shop; it’s an experience, inviting you to browse, reminisce, and uncover treasures. Whether you’re looking for a specific vintage item, a gourmet Vermont food product, or simply want to soak in the charming ambiance, The Vermont Country Store provides a delightful and unique shopping adventure for all ages.

Ben & Jerry’s Factory

Prepare for a scoop of pure joy at the Ben & Jerry’s Factory in Waterbury. This isn’t just a factory; it’s a pilgrimage site for ice cream lovers worldwide, offering a delightful and often humorous insight into how their legendary flavors are created. Your visit begins with a fun, guided factory tour where you’ll learn about the company’s history, its commitment to social responsibility, and, of course, the ice cream-making process itself – complete with a sample at the end! What makes this experience truly special is the irreverent spirit and delicious outcome.

Beyond the tour, you can explore the Flavor Graveyard, a whimsical tribute to retired flavors, and browse the gift shop for exclusive merchandise. It’s a vibrant, family-friendly attraction that combines education with indulgence, perfect for all ages. You’ll leave with a greater appreciation for their unique approach to business and, undoubtedly, a craving for more of their iconic Chunky Monkey or Cherry Garcia.

Fairbanks Museum and Planetarium

Delve into the wonders of the natural world and the cosmos at the Fairbanks Museum and Planetarium in St. Johnsbury. This charming Victorian-era museum is a true hidden gem, offering a fascinating blend of natural history, science, and cultural artifacts. What makes it unique is its meticulously preserved collection of taxidermy animals from around the globe, displayed in beautiful, historic exhibits that feel like stepping back in time.

Beyond the impressive animal collection, you will discover engaging exhibits on local ecology, weather, and a variety of scientific principles. The highlight for many is the state-of-the-art planetarium, which offers immersive shows exploring the night sky, constellations, and distant galaxies, making complex astronomical concepts accessible and exciting for all ages. It’s a place of quiet discovery, perfect for curious minds, families, and anyone with an interest in science and the natural world. The museum also houses Vermont’s only public planetarium, adding an extra layer of wonder to your visit.

Bennington Museum

The Bennington Museum offers a deep dive into the rich history and vibrant culture of the Bennington region and Vermont as a whole. What makes this museum truly special is its diverse collection, which spans from Revolutionary War artifacts to significant American folk art. You will discover an impressive array of exhibits, including the largest public collection of works by Grandma Moses, providing a captivating look at her life and iconic paintings of rural New England.

Beyond art, the museum showcases fascinating displays on early Vermont industries, a historic one-room schoolhouse, and a comprehensive collection related to the Battle of Bennington. The museum effectively tells the story of the area’s development, its people, and its unique contributions to American history and art. It’s an engaging and educational experience for history enthusiasts, art lovers, and families looking to understand the heritage of this corner of Vermont. Allow ample time to explore the various galleries and outdoor exhibits.

Hildene

Hildene, The Lincoln Family Home, in Manchester, offers a fascinating glimpse into the lives of Abraham Lincoln’s descendants and the enduring legacy of America’s 16th president. This magnificent Georgian Revival mansion was the summer home of Robert Todd Lincoln, the only one of Lincoln’s four sons to survive to adulthood. What makes Hildene truly unique is its beautifully preserved interior, filled with original furnishings and personal effects, allowing you to step directly into the family’s history.

You can explore the grand rooms, including the library where Robert Todd Lincoln kept his father’s stovepipe hat, and learn about the family’s contributions to the region. Beyond the mansion, the estate boasts stunning formal gardens, walking trails, and a working goat farm and cheesemaking facility, adding a delightful agricultural dimension to the visit. It’s a remarkably comprehensive historical experience, perfect for history buffs, garden enthusiasts, and families seeking a blend of education, beauty, and tranquility.

Green Mountain Coffee Visitors Centre & Café

For coffee lovers, the Green Mountain Coffee Visitors Centre & Café in Waterbury is an aromatic journey into the world of one of Vermont’s most successful exports. This isn’t just a coffee shop; it’s a celebration of coffee, from bean to cup, offering an engaging experience for enthusiasts and casual drinkers alike. What makes it special is the opportunity to learn about the brand’s history, its commitment to sustainability, and the meticulous process of coffee sourcing and roasting.

You can explore interactive exhibits, watch demonstrations, and, most importantly, sample a wide variety of their freshly brewed coffees and specialty drinks. The café also offers a selection of pastries and light bites to complement your beverage. It’s a perfect stop for a morning pick-me-up or an afternoon treat, providing a cozy and informative atmosphere. You’ll leave with a deeper appreciation for your daily brew and perhaps a bag of your new favorite blend.

Rock of Ages Granite Quarry

The Rock of Ages Granite Quarry in Barre is an astonishing testament to human ingenuity and the raw power of nature. This isn’t just a quarry; it’s one of the largest deep-hole granite quarries in the world, an immense, man-made canyon that will leave you awestruck. What makes it unique is the sheer scale of the operation and the opportunity to witness active quarrying, polishing, and sculpting of granite up close. You can take a guided tour that delves into the history of granite extraction, the techniques used, and the lives of the quarry workers.

From an observation deck, you’ll gaze into the vast pit, sometimes seeing massive blocks of granite being cut and lifted. The visitor center offers exhibits, and you can even try your hand at polishing a piece of granite. Afterward, visit the craftsmen at the nearby manufacturing plant to see skilled artisans transforming raw stone into monuments and art. This is a fascinating and educational experience for anyone interested in industry, geology, or craftsmanship.

The Marsh-Billings-Rockefeller National Historic Site

The Marsh-Billings-Rockefeller National Historical Park in Woodstock is a tranquil and deeply significant site that tells the story of conservation and land stewardship in America. This isn’t just a historic home; it’s the only National Historical Park in Vermont and preserves the ancestral home of three influential figures: George Perkins Marsh, a pioneering environmentalist; Frederick Billings, a railroad magnate and conservationist; and Laurance and Mary French Rockefeller, who continued the legacy of land management. What makes this park unique is its focus on the intellectual history of conservation, inviting you to explore the beautifully maintained mansion, its furnished rooms, and the surrounding managed forest.

You can wander through diverse forest trails, visit the historic barns, and learn about sustainable forestry practices. The park offers guided tours of the mansion and grounds, providing profound insights into the evolution of American environmental thought. It’s a serene and educational experience, ideal for history buffs, nature lovers, and anyone interested in the origins of the conservation movement.

Brattleboro’s Farmers Markets

Immerse yourself in the vibrant local culture at Brattleboro’s Farmers Markets, a true highlight of the southern Vermont experience. This isn’t just a place to buy produce; it’s a lively community gathering, a celebration of local agriculture, craftsmanship, and culinary talent. What makes these markets unique is their incredible variety and the direct connection you make with the producers.

You will discover an abundance of fresh, seasonal produce, artisanal cheeses, baked goods, handmade crafts, and unique prepared foods from local farms and vendors. Live music often fills the air, and food trucks offer delicious meals, creating a festive, bustling atmosphere. It’s a feast for the senses, allowing you to sample local flavors, find unique souvenirs, and experience the authentic spirit of Brattleboro. Whether you’re a foodie, a supporter of local businesses, or simply looking for a lively weekend activity, the farmers markets offer an authentic and delightful slice of Vermont life.

Plan Your Visit

Vermont truly is a destination that captivates and charms, offering a diverse palette of experiences that cater to every interest. As you journey through its rolling hills and quaint towns, you will discover a unique blend of natural beauty, rich history, and quirky attractions that set it apart. From ascending historic monuments for panoramic views to delving into the world of famous poets and indulging in world-renowned ice cream, Vermont promises something memorable for everyone.

Its commitment to local craftsmanship, sustainable practices, and community spirit shines through in every attraction, inviting you to connect with the land and its people on a deeper level. Start planning your Vermont adventure today, whether you seek the vibrant hues of fall, the refreshing embrace of summer, or the serene beauty of winter. Remember to budget for the specific attractions that pique your interest, as costs vary, but the memories you’ll make here will be truly priceless. Come and experience the magic of the Green Mountain State; it’s waiting to inspire you.