Best Places to Visit & Things To Do in Vermont, USA [Updated-2026]

Travelo Info

November 4, 2025

Best Places to Visit & Things To Do in Vermont, USA [Updated-2026]

………………………………………………………………………

……………………………………………………………………….

Beyond the Leaf Peeping: Your Ultimate Guide to the Best Places to Visit & Things To Do in Vermont

Vermont is a state for the senses. It’s the taste of sharp cheddar and sweet maple syrup, the sight of emerald green mountains under a blanket of autumn fire, the sound of skis gliding on fresh powder, and the feel of a gentle breeze on a covered bridge walk. While famously beautiful in the fall, Vermont is a four-season destination that rewards visitors with its authentic charm, deep-rooted agricultural heritage, and a pace of life that encourages you to slow down and savor the moment.

This guide is your key to experiencing the real Vermont. We’ll take you from its vibrant little cities to its serene mountain trails, uncovering the essential places to visit and the most memorable things to do in the Green Mountain State.

1. The Quintessential Charm of Burlington & Lake Champlain

As Vermont’s largest city, Burlington is a vibrant, progressive hub that perfectly blends urban energy with stunning natural beauty.

Unmissable Things to Do in Burlington:

Stroll the Church Street Marketplace: This pedestrian-only, open-air mall is the heart of Burlington. Lined with brick buildings, it’s filled with unique boutiques, street performers, and a fantastic array of cafes and restaurants. It’s the perfect place to people-watch and feel the city’s pulse.
Waterfront Park & the Bike Path: Walk, bike, or rollerblade along the 7.5-mile Burlington Greenway that skirts the shore of Lake Champlain. The views of the Adirondack Mountains across the water are breathtaking, especially at sunset.
Tour the Ben & Jerry’s Factory: Located a short drive away in Waterbury, this is a pilgrimage for ice cream lovers. Take the factory tour to see how the magic is made and pay your respects at the whimsical “Flavor Graveyard.”
Set Sail on Lake Champlain: Get out on the water for a new perspective. Rent a kayak, stand-up paddleboard, or book a sightseeing cruise on the Spirit of Ethan Allen to learn about the lake’s rich history and maybe even spot “Champ,” its legendary lake monster.

2. The Green Mountains: Hiking, Skiing & Scenic Drives

The backbone of Vermont, this mountain range provides a stunning backdrop for world-class outdoor recreation year-round.

Stowe: The Ski Capital with Year-Round Appeal

Often called the “Ski Capital of the East,” Stowe is a classic Vermont village that shines in every season.

Drive or Hike the Auto Toll Road: In the warmer months, you can drive (or hike) the 4.5-mile toll road to the summit of Mount Mansfield, Vermont’s highest peak. The 360-degree views from the top are unparalleled.
Ski and Snowboard at Stowe Mountain Resort: In winter, this resort offers legendary terrain for all skill levels. The Front Four trails are famous among expert skiers.
Walk the Stowe Recreation Path: This 5.5-mile paved path winds through meadows, along the West Branch River, and offers postcard-worthy views of the mountains. It’s perfect for a leisurely walk, bike ride, or cross-country ski.

The Long Trail: A Hiker’s Paradise

For the truly adventurous, Vermont is home to the Long Trail, the oldest long-distance hiking trail in the United States.

Tackle a Section: You don’t have to hike all 272 miles! Popular and challenging day hikes include the ascent of Camel’s Hump, which offers a rocky, alpine summit with incredible views.

3. A Taste of Vermont: The Culinary Trail

Vermont’s farm-to-table ethos isn’t a trend—it’s a way of life. Your visit must include a culinary tour.

Follow the Cheese Trail: Vermont produces more artisan cheese per capita than any other state. Visit farms like the Cabot Creamery or Shelburne Farms to sample world-class cheddars and see the process firsthand.
Tap into the Maple Syrup Scene: Visit a sugarhouse in the spring to see sap being boiled down into syrup, or stop by a farmstand year-round. Don’t leave without trying “sugar on snow”—hot maple syrup poured over fresh snow, creating a taffy-like treat.
Tour a Craft Brewery: Vermont has the most craft breweries per capita in the U.S. The Alchemist in Stowe (home of Heady Topper), Hill Farmstead Brewery in Greensboro, and Lawson’s Finest Liquids in Waitsfield are just a few of the heavy hitters that draw beer pilgrims from around the world.

4. Picture-Perfect Villages & Historic Charm

To understand Vermont’s soul, you need to explore its small towns, where history feels alive.

Woodstock: The Prettiest Small Town

Frequently voted one of America’s prettiest small towns, Woodstock looks like it was plucked from a storybook.

Explore the Green and Historic Homes: Walk around the central green, admire the stunning architecture, and cross its beautiful, historic covered bridges.
Visit the Billings Farm & Museum: This outstanding working dairy farm and museum offers a fascinating look into Vermont’s rural history and agricultural traditions.
Hike in Marsh-Billings-Rockefeller National Historical Park: As the only national park in Vermont, it tells the story of conservation and features beautiful trails through a managed forest.

Grafton & Weston: Preserved in Time

These two villages are stunning examples of historic preservation.

Grafton: This picture-perfect village feels like a living museum. Visit the Grafton Village Cheese Company, stay at the historic Old Tavern, and simply enjoy the serene atmosphere.
Weston: Home to the famous Vermont Country Store, a nostalgic emporium that sells everything from practical woolens to old-fashioned candies. Don’t miss a performance at the Weston Playhouse, one of Vermont’s oldest professional theatres.

5. Off the Beaten Path: Vermont’s Hidden Gaps

Venture beyond the well-trodden paths to discover the state’s quieter side.

The Northeast Kingdom: Comprising the counties of Orleans, Essex, and Caledonia, this region is Vermont’s most remote and wild corner. It’s a paradise for cyclists, anglers, and those seeking solitude. Visit Lake Willoughby, a stunning glacial lake often called “America’s Lucerne.”
The Mad River Valley: Nestled between the Green Mountain range, this valley is home to the Sugarbush and Mad River Glen ski areas. It’s known for its relaxed, authentic vibe and excellent dining scene.
Covered Bridge Hunting: Vermont has over 100 covered bridges. Create your own tour to find them; some of the most photogenic include the Emily’s Bridge in Stowe and the Cornish-Windsor Covered Bridge spanning the Connecticut River.

Essential Vermont Travel Tips

Embrace the Seasons:
- Fall Foliage (Late Sept-Oct): The most popular time. Book accommodations far in advance. The colors are spectacular, but the roads can be crowded.
- Winter (Dec-March): Ideal for skiing, snowshoeing, and cozying up by the fire. Be prepared for snow and cold temperatures.
- Spring (Apr-May): “Mud Season.” Many dirt roads are impassable, and it’s the quietest (and muddiest) time to visit.
- Summer (June-August): Perfect for hiking, biking, and lake activities. The weather is warm and pleasant.
Drive the Scenic Byways: The true beauty of Vermont is found on its backroads. Don’t miss routes like Route 100, which runs the length of the state and is considered one of the most scenic drives in New England.
Support Local: From farm stands to artisan galleries, Vermont’s economy is built on small businesses. Buying local is the best way to experience the state’s authentic character.

Vermont is a state that invites you to engage with it—to hike its trails, taste its bounty, and breathe in its clean, mountain air. It’s a place that proves that the best things in life aren’t rushed. So, come for the scenic beauty, but leave with a deeper appreciation for a simpler, more flavorful way of living.

………………………………………………………………………

……………………………………………………………………….