I made my first trip to Vermont in the dead of winter, back in 2019, when the state was blanketed in three feet of fresh powder. As one of the few travelers brave enough to face the cold, I got to experience the quiet charm of snow-covered villages and empty hiking trails all to myself.
What makes Vermont special is how it manages to feel both frozen in time and perfectly current. From the rolling green mountains and maple-dotted countryside to the cozy farm-to-table restaurants and local craft breweries, from quiet dirt roads leading to covered bridges to lively college towns with indie bookstores and coffee shops, Vermont offers something new around every corner.
So, what are the best places to check out in Vermont? I’ve combined my personal adventures with recommendations from local friends who’ve called the Green Mountain State home for generations to create this carefully curated list.
Stowe Mountain Resort
Located in Vermont’s Green Mountains, Stowe Mountain Resort has been welcoming winter sports enthusiasts since the 1930s. The resort sprawls across two peaks – Mount Mansfield and Spruce Peak – offering 116 trails that wind through 485 acres of skiable terrain. Beyond the slopes, the resort’s charming Alpine-style village features cozy lodges, local restaurants, and boutique shops where visitors can warm up between runs. In winter, the mountain’s famous “Front Four” trails challenge expert skiers, while summer brings hikers and mountain bikers to explore the same terrain under sunny skies. The historic Stowe Mountain Lodge, with its timber and stone architecture, stands at the heart of it all, offering guests front-row views of Vermont’s highest peak.
Burlington Waterfront
Burlington’s waterfront has been my favorite spot in Vermont since I first visited in 2015. Perched along the shores of Lake Champlain, this lively stretch offers some of the best views in the state, with the Adirondack Mountains creating a perfect backdrop across the water. The eight-mile bike path that runs along the shore is always filled with locals and visitors, while the Waterfront Park hosts everything from food festivals to summer concerts. On warm days, you’ll find people lounging on the grass, launching kayaks from the marina, or enjoying a meal at one of the waterside restaurants. The ECHO Lake Aquarium and Science Center sits right on the water, teaching visitors about Lake Champlain’s ecosystem through interactive exhibits and a collection of local aquatic life.
Ben & Jerry’s Factory
Take a tasty trip to the Ben & Jerry’s Factory in Waterbury, where ice cream dreams come true. You can join a 30-minute guided tour to see how their famous flavors are made, from Chunky Monkey to Cherry Garcia. After learning about the ice cream-making process, head to the Flavor Graveyard to pay respects to retired flavors, then stop by the scoop shop to try the flavor of the day. For a special treat, visit during a weekday to watch the production line in action and see how those pints of happiness are packaged and prepared for delivery across the country.
Shelburne Museum
Looking for a unique museum experience in Vermont? Head to the Shelburne Museum, where history comes alive across 45 acres of scenic grounds. This open-air museum features 39 historic buildings that have been carefully relocated here, including a steamboat, lighthouse, covered bridge, and even a historic railroad station. Inside these structures, you’ll find an impressive collection of American folk art, quilts, carriages, and decorative pieces that tell the story of New England life.
Mount Mansfield
Many outdoor enthusiasts head to Mount Mansfield, Vermont’s highest peak at 4,393 feet, where endless hiking trails and scenic views await. The mountain’s distinct ridgeline, which resembles a human face when viewed from the east, offers both challenging treks for experienced hikers and gentler paths for casual wanderers. In winter, the slopes transform into Stowe Mountain Resort, drawing skiers and snowboarders from across New England. While the Gondola SkyRide provides easy access to the summit during warmer months, visitors can also explore the rare arctic-alpine tundra that thrives at the mountain’s peak, making it a fascinating destination for nature lovers throughout the year.
Lake Champlain
Stretching over 120 miles along Vermont’s western border, Lake Champlain serves as both a natural wonder and recreational paradise for visitors throughout the year. The lake’s waters provide endless opportunities for boating, fishing, and swimming during warm months, while its shoreline transforms into a hub for ice fishing and cross-country skiing come winter. Located between the Adirondacks and Green Mountains, the area offers more than just water activities – visitors can explore historic lighthouses, cycle along the Island Line Trail, or take a scenic boat tour to spot local wildlife. Whether you’re interested in learning about the lake’s role in early American history or simply want to relax on one of its many beaches, Lake Champlain delivers an authentic Vermont experience in every season.
This is interesting:
Lake Champlain has its own legendary lake monster called “Champ,” who locals claim has been spotted over 300 times since the 1800s, making it America’s version of the Loch Ness Monster. The 120-mile long lake stretches between Vermont and New York, creating a natural border that was once a key military route during both the American Revolution and the War of 1812.
Smugglers’ Notch State Park
Tucked between Mount Mansfield and Spruce Peak, Smugglers’ Notch State Park holds centuries of history within its rocky corridor. The park got its name during the early 1800s when it served as a secret route for moving goods between Canada and New England. Today, this winding pass through the Green Mountains offers visitors a mix of outdoor activities and natural wonders. The narrow, boulder-lined path leads to excellent hiking trails and rock climbing spots, while the dense forest provides shade for summer picnics and camping. In winter, the park transforms into a wonderland for ice climbing and snowshoeing, making it a year-round destination for outdoor enthusiasts. The nearby caves and crevices, once used by actual smugglers, now draw curious explorers eager to discover the park’s hidden corners.
Woodstock Village
Tucked away in the heart of Vermont’s countryside, Woodstock Village looks like it jumped straight out of a New England postcard. Like many Vermont towns, it has its covered bridges, maple syrup shops, and historic buildings. But unlike the others, it manages to blend small-town charm with upscale touches in a way that feels completely natural. Just peek into the local artisan cheese shops and farm-to-table restaurants, and you’ll see what I mean. Because of its well-preserved Federal-style homes and location near popular ski areas, Woodstock has become a favorite among both history buffs and outdoor enthusiasts, and you’ll find both types mingling at the town’s cozy cafes and local craft shops.
Church Street Marketplace
Step into the heart of Burlington when you visit Church Street Marketplace, a lively pedestrian-only shopping district in downtown. This four-block stretch features historic buildings housing over 100 shops, restaurants, and cafes, where you can browse local boutiques or grab a bite at one of the many outdoor patios. During summer, the marketplace comes alive with street performers and musicians, while winter brings twinkling lights and holiday decorations. Stop by Leunig’s Bistro for classic French fare, or pop into Lake Champlain Chocolates to sample Vermont’s famous sweets.
Killington Resort
If you’re looking for Vermont’s top skiing destination, head straight to Killington Resort. Located in the heart of the Green Mountains, this sprawling winter playground offers 155 trails across six mountain peaks, making it the largest ski area in the eastern United States. You’ll find runs for every skill level, from gentle beginner slopes to challenging double-black diamonds, plus seven terrain parks for freestyle enthusiasts.
Bennington Battle Monument
History buffs and patriots flock to the Bennington Battle Monument, a towering 306-foot obelisk that marks the site of a crucial American Revolution victory. While most visitors come to climb to the observation level for sweeping views of three states, the monument also serves as a testament to Vermont’s role in America’s fight for independence. The site features interpretive displays about the 1777 battle, and park interpreters offer fascinating insights into the conflict that helped turn the tide of the Revolutionary War. During the warmer months, you’ll find living history demonstrations and educational programs, but the impressive stone structure draws photographers and sightseers throughout the year.
Mad River Glen
Many skiers flock to Mad River Glen for its old-school charm and natural skiing conditions, but this Vermont destination offers much more than just downhill runs. The ski-only resort maintains its traditional character with a single-chair lift and a strict “no snowboards” policy that appeals to skiing purists. In winter, visitors can explore miles of backcountry terrain and tree-lined trails, while warmer months bring opportunities for hiking and wildlife watching along the mountain paths. The nearby Mad River Valley features local farms, craft breweries, and small restaurants serving Vermont comfort food, making it a worthwhile visit regardless of the season.
VINS Nature Center
Located in Quechee Gorge, the VINS Nature Center offers a window into Vermont’s wild side. Unlike traditional zoos or wildlife parks, this center focuses on rehabilitating injured birds and educating visitors about the region’s natural heritage. Along its winding forest paths, you’ll find rescued hawks, owls, and eagles in spacious enclosures, each with their own recovery story to tell. Because of its dedication to environmental education, VINS has become a crucial resource for both locals and tourists, and you’ll often see school groups learning about raptor biology or forest ecology. The center’s treetop canopy walk lets you experience the forest from 50 feet up, giving you the same perspective as the birds that call this place home.
Green Mountain National Forest
Immerse yourself in nature at Green Mountain National Forest, Vermont’s sprawling outdoor playground that spans over 400,000 acres. The forest offers endless opportunities for outdoor activities, from hiking the Long Trail to skiing at some of New England’s best slopes. In summer, you can camp under starlit skies at developed campgrounds like Grout Pond, or go mountain biking on the extensive network of trails. During fall, the forest comes alive with red and gold colors, making it one of the best spots to experience Vermont’s famous foliage season.
Billings Farm & Museum
Many visitors come to Billings Farm & Museum for its educational programs about Vermont’s rural heritage, but this working dairy farm offers much more than just history lessons. The 270-acre property combines a fully-operational Jersey dairy farm with interactive exhibits that show what farm life was like in the 1890s. Throughout the year, guests can watch farm demonstrations, meet the animals up close, and even try their hand at traditional activities like butter churning. While the farm’s famous ice cream and cheese draw crowds in summer months, winter brings its own charm with sleigh rides and holiday celebrations that showcase New England traditions at their finest.
Mount Snow
Driving up to Mount Snow for my first ski trip in 2019 felt like entering a winter wonderland straight out of a postcard. Located in southern Vermont’s Green Mountains, Mount Snow stands as one of New England’s most popular ski destinations. The mountain’s 86 trails spread across four distinct faces, with the main face offering wide, groomed runs perfect for families and beginners. Beyond the slopes, the base area buzzes with après-ski spots and cozy lodges where visitors warm up with hot chocolate and Vermont cheese boards. In summer, the resort transforms into a mountain biking paradise, with trails winding through dense forest and open meadows dotted with wildflowers.
Lake Willoughby
Discover a natural wonder at Lake Willoughby, where two mountains stand like guardians on either side of crystal-clear glacial waters. Nestled in Vermont’s Northeast Kingdom, this deep lake offers sandy beaches perfect for swimming and sunbathing during summer months. Pack a picnic and head to the south beach, where you can watch boats glide across the water or take a refreshing dip. For hiking enthusiasts, the trails up Mount Pisgah and Mount Hor provide rewarding views of the lake below, especially during fall when the surrounding forest puts on its colorful display. It’s an ideal spot for both active adventurers and those who simply want to relax by the water.
Hildene
If you want to experience a slice of American history in Vermont, head to Hildene, the former summer home of Robert Todd Lincoln (Abraham Lincoln’s only surviving son). Located in Manchester, this Georgian Revival mansion sits on a sprawling 412-acre estate that includes beautiful gardens, walking trails, and a working farm. Inside the house, you’ll find original furnishings and family artifacts from the Lincoln era, while the property’s restored 1903 Pullman car offers a glimpse into Robert’s career as president of the Pullman Company.
Marsh-Billings-Rockefeller National Historical Park
Tucked away in the quaint town of Woodstock is the Marsh-Billings-Rockefeller National Historical Park. Unlike other national parks that focus on natural wonders, this one tells the story of land stewardship and conservation in America. Walking through its 550 acres feels like stepping into a living history book, where three generations of conservationists shaped the landscape we see today. The park includes a Victorian mansion filled with Hudson River School paintings, working gardens that have been producing food for over 150 years, and forest trails that showcase some of the oldest managed woodlands in North America. Because of its unique focus on sustainable forestry and farming practices, you’ll find yourself learning about both history and modern environmental practices as you explore the grounds.
Bet You Didn’t Know:
Looking for a dose of both history and wilderness? This park was established in honor of 3 different families who shared a common passion for environmental conservation, and it’s home to Vermont’s only national park, a lavish Victorian mansion, and over 500 acres of peaceful forest trails where you can retrace the footsteps of early conservationists who helped shape America’s environmental movement.
Dog Mountain
Dog Mountain in Vermont’s Northeast Kingdom feels like stepping into a whimsical world created just for dogs and the people who love them. This unique 150-acre property features hiking trails, art galleries, and most notably, the Dog Chapel – a heartfelt tribute to beloved pets that have passed on. Inside, the walls are covered with thousands of photos in what’s known as the “Dog Chapel’s Dog Wall,” where visitors can add pictures of their own four-legged friends. It’s not a typical tourist spot – you won’t find gift shops or fancy restaurants here – but what you will discover is a place that celebrates the simple joy and unconditional love that dogs bring to our lives. The gentle hills and open meadows welcome both human and canine visitors to roam freely, making it one of the most unusual and touching destinations in New England.
Bromley Mountain
Located in the heart of the Green Mountains, Bromley Mountain serves up year-round fun for outdoor enthusiasts. Like many Vermont ski areas, Bromley draws winter crowds to its snowy slopes, but it stands out as the only ski resort in New England with south-facing trails. In summer, the mountain transforms into a playground with its adventure park, where you can zip through treetops or take a scenic chairlift ride. What makes Bromley special is its laid-back, family-friendly vibe – you won’t find the pretentious atmosphere that some larger resorts have. The mountain’s history dates back to 1936, making it one of Vermont’s oldest ski areas, and locals still call it the “Sun Mountain” because of how its slopes catch the warmth of southern light all day long.
