Top 20 Must-Visit Attractions in Vermont

Vermont offers more than just ski slopes for a few months each year. It’s a unique mix of small-town charm and working landscapes that cater to those who appreciate nature and agriculture. From food enthusiasts to photography lovers, Vermont is a captivating destination for many types of travelers.

For those planning their initial trip to New England, Vermont provides an abundance of attractions that draw visitors season after season.

Photograph Covered Bridges

With over 100 covered bridges, Vermont boasts the highest concentration of these iconic structures in the United States. If you want a true adventure, venture to Windsor to drive across the Windsor-Cornish Covered Bridge, which is the longest single-span covered bridge in the nation, leading you into New Hampshire.

If you’re in Bennington, you can find five covered bridges nearby, while Scenic Route 30 north of Brattleboro presents another picturesque area for covered bridge enthusiasts.

Visit the Dog Chapel

For dog lovers, the Dog Chapel in St. Johnsbury offers a unique experience. Designed by the late Stephen Huneck as a tribute to his furry friends, the chapel features artistic dog designs and a tranquil setting on a 150-acre Dog Mountain property, perfect for exploration, particularly in the fall.

Tour Ben & Jerry’s

A trip to the Ben & Jerry’s Factory in Waterbury is a delightful experience. While exploring the factory, you can view a short film about the company’s remarkable history and watch the production process firsthand. Don’t forget to sample the flavor of the day before heading to the Scoop Shop for even more delicious choices!

Get Down on the Farm

Located in Woodstock, Vermont, Billings Farm and Museum is a working dairy showcasing sustainable agriculture. Visitors can engage with farming activities, while learning about the historical evolution of agriculture in the area. For those interested, combine your visit with a trip to the nearby Marsh-Billings-Rockefeller National Historical Park for a combined ticket experience.

Check Out the Cheese at Cabot Creamery

For cheese aficionados, Cabot Creamery represents the pinnacle of Vermont’s cheese making. The tours provide insights into cheese production, allowing visitors to appreciate the craftsmanship that puts Vermont cheddar on the map.

Ride a Lake Champlain Ferry

Exploring Lake Champlain is a fantastic way to appreciate Vermont’s natural beauty. A ferry trip across the lake to New York State offers dramatic views, bringing you closer to the picturesque Adirondack Mountains. Ferries are conveniently available from various locations, including Grand Isle and Burlington.

Learn About President Calvin Coolidge

The President Calvin Coolidge State Historic Site is the birthplace of the 30th President, offering insight into his life and the setting in which he grew up. The site includes his family’s general store, tavern, and farm, providing a fascinating glimpse into early 20th-century New England.

Get in Touch With Nature

The Vermont Institute of Natural Science (VINS) in Quechee offers an engaging experience with wildlife, featuring exhibitions and learning opportunities centered around raptors. Don’t miss a chance to walk the trail leading to the stunning Quechee Gorge, one of Vermont’s impressive natural landmarks.

Visit the Shelburne Museum

The Shelburne Museum showcases an extensive collection of American folk art and history, with gardens, historic buildings, and a covered bridge all on a sprawling 45-acre site. Visitors can appreciate a diverse array of cultural artifacts and beautiful landscaping in one location.

Go Bowling at a Granite Quarry

The Rock of Ages granite quarry in Barre is not only a marvel of engineering but also includes the world’s only granite bowling alley. Visitors can experience guided tours to witness the granite quarrying process while enjoying the unique opportunity to bowl a few frames at this extraordinary venue.

See Panoramic Views from the Bennington Battle Monument

Ascend the Bennington Battle Monument for stunning 360-degree views that celebrate Vermont’s historical role during the American Revolution. The 306-foot structure commemorates the local militia’s victory over British forces, providing a fascinating connection to early American history.

Surf at the Pump House

The Pump House Indoor Waterpark at Jay Peak is a year-round escape, featuring thrilling slides and a retractable roof that lets in sunshine on warm days. Enjoy surfing on the Double Barrel Flowrider or relax in hot tubs, making it an exciting destination regardless of the weather.

Peep at the Leaves

Driving the charming roads of Vermont during the fall is a must-do experience. The foliage generally begins changing in mid-September, with vibrant colors persisting into mid-October, creating a picturesque spectacle that attracts nature lovers.

Go Skiing

Vermont’s ski resorts provide stunning mountain vistas and diverse ski opportunities. Families will love the Trapp Family Lodge, known for its picturesque ambiance reminiscent of Austria. For luxury seekers, Stowe offers beautiful accommodations paired with fine dining options and exquisite spa facilities.

Sweeten up With Vermont Syrup

Vermont syrup is renowned for its quality. The Green Mountain Sugar House specializes in award-winning maple syrup that you can purchase directly. The experience of touring a sugar house during syrup production season is both educational and enjoyable.

Visit the Ethan Allen Homestead

Located in Burlington, the Ethan Allen Homestead immerses visitors in the life of one of Vermont’s most significant historic figures. The site functions as a living history museum where you can explore daily life during the Vermont frontier era.

Go Back in Time at the Lincoln Family Home

Discover the history of Abraham Lincoln’s family at Hildene, a stunning estate in Manchester, Vermont. Visitors can enjoy guided or self-guided tours, exploring the lush grounds, historic buildings, and beautiful gardens that reveal stories of the Lincoln lineage.

Tour the Marsh-Billings-Rockefeller National Historical Park

The Marsh-Billings-Rockefeller National Historical Park, located in Woodstock, offers a rich venture in environmental conservation and history, featuring ranger-led tours that explore both the mansion and its beautiful grounds.

Shop and Dine on Church Street

The Church Street Marketplace in Burlington is a vibrant area filled with shops and eateries. A perfect blend of commerce and entertainment, this outdoor venue hosts events and street performances that elevate the shopping and dining experience.

Sip Some Cider

In Waterbury Center, the Cold Hollow Cider Mill attracts visitors seeking a taste of historic cider-making. Offering delicious local baked goods and a chance to purchase regional products, patrons can also dine at the on-site restaurant.