48 Fun Things To Do & Places To Visit In Vermont
Cabins in the woods.
Colorful autumn leaves.
All of the maple syrup that you can eat.
These are just a few of the selling points of Vermont, a northeastern state with tons to offer in terms of natural beauty, delicious eats and wonderful opportunities for sightseeing and connecting with nature.
Other great things about Vermont include its history and culture as a New England state.
Originally part of the 13 colonies, it was discovered in the 1500s and settled shortly thereafter, leaving a long legacy that is often marveled at by today’s travelers.
If you’re looking for fun places to go, Vermont has those as well!
From malls to movie theaters to ice cream factories, it’s filled with tourist attractions that will delight everyone from solo backpackers to family vacations with kids.
Are you ready to start exploring the Green Mountain State just like its original settlers did?
Things To Do In Vermont
1. Vermont Teddy Bear Factory
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Despite its majestic mountains, one of the most popular places to visit in Vermont has nothing to do with the outdoors.
It’s actually the Vermont Teddy Bear Factory.
Originally a one-man operation with a guy selling teddy bears at a farmer’s market, the factory is now a gigantic, multi-level facility that ships out more than 500,000 stuffed animals each year.
They’re special because each one is uniquely customized to the orderer, resulting in a huge variety of bears.
To add to the charm, they’re shipped in boxes that contain “breathing holes” that keep the magic alive!
If you want your own taste of the magic, schedule a tour of the factory.
You can watch the bears being built, customized, repaired or assembled from scratch.
You can also create your own as a keepsake souvenir.
Whether you’re a parent with kids or just a kid at heart yourself, you’ll love a trip to the Vermont Teddy Bear Factory.
It’ll be a soft and cuddly tourist experience for folks of all ages.
Address: 6655 Shelburne Rd, Shelburne, VT 05482, United States
2. Church Street Marketplace
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You can’t visit Vermont without a trip to the Church Street Marketplace.
Covering four entire blocks, it’s home to more than 80 businesses that range from hat makers to nail salons, and it the place to see and be seen in the city of Burlington.
There’s always something going on at the marketplace.
There are festivals and food tastings; there are art shows and street musicians.
There are also all of the shops, cafes, bistros and vendor stalls that you’d expect from a bustling retail space.
Are you feeling peckish?
Grab a gelato from a food truck.
Do you like history?
Take a stroll through historic neighborhoods with colonial-style townhouses.
Are you looking for unique things to do?
Spend an afternoon browsing old vinyls at an antique record shop or playing Space Invaders at a vintage arcade.
There’s something for everyone at the Church Street Marketplace.
It’s one of the top destinations of Vermont, so if you’ll be anywhere near the Burlington area during your trip, make sure to stop by.
Address: 2 Church St Suite 2A, Burlington, VT 05401, United States
3. Ben and Jerry’s Factory Tour and Ice Cream Shop
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You know Ben and Jerry’s.
Everyone knows Ben and Jerry’s.
But have you ever stopped to wonder where Chunky Monkey actually comes from?
The answer is “Waterbury, Vermont.”
It’s the location of the very first Ben and Jerry’s factory, and it’s still operational today.
Visitors can take tours, sample flavors and shop for treats and souvenirs that extend far beyond ice cream cones.
Other, lesser-known attractions include things like the “Flavor Graveyard,” a hilariously elaborate cemetery with headstones bearing the names of flavors that were retired from circulation.
RIP, Turtle Soup!
You don’t have to be an ice cream lover to enjoy a trip to Ben and Jerry’s Factory Tour and Ice Cream Shop.
It’s a genuine piece of history, especially Vermont history, and the cold chocolatey desserts are just a bonus.
Address: 1281 Waterbury-Stowe Road, VT-100, Waterbury Village Historic District, VT 05676, United States
4. Billings Farm and Museum
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Located in Woodstock, Vermont, the Billings Farm and Museum is one of the major places of interest in the state.
Not only is it a “living history” museum where you can experience hands-on tours and demonstrations of colonial life, but it’s also a destination where you can enjoy cool and unique activities such as churning butter by hand or petting a dairy cow or barnyard goat.
Visitors of all ages should appreciate the 18th century charm of the large, outdoor farm space.
It really doesn’t seem like a museum at all.
If you bring your kids, they won’t even realize that they’re learning new things as they walk around the fields and giggle over the sheep, chickens and draft horses.
Inside the barn, you’ll find an impressive collection of objects and artifacts that detail life in the early days of Vermont.
From photographs to oral history tales, there’s a little something for all history buffs.
Consider a trip to the Billings Farm and Museum if you’re looking for fun things to do in Vermont that will also give you a deeper feel for both the state and the people who once toiled its lands.
Address: 69 Old River Rd, Woodstock, VT 05091, United States
5. Blue Paddle Bistro
Blue Paddle Bistro
It would be a crime to visit the northeast without trying northeastern seafood, so pull up a chair at the Blue Paddle Bistro and dig in.
It’s famous for its tasty and freshly-caught seafood dishes, including tuna, salmon, scallops and crab cakes.
You’ll also get a touch of Vermont in most menu items.
The rib-eye steak, for example, is served alongside mashed potatoes flavored with Vermont cheddar cheese.
The sea scallops come with a pan sear and a glaze of Vermont maple chili.
Dine-in visitors will enjoy a cozy setting dominated by wooden fixtures and indigenous framed artwork on the walls.
Takeout is also available, and while you’ll miss the ambiance of the restaurant, you’ll still get the same great flavors in every order.
When your stomach is rumbling in South Hero, Vermont, there’s only one place that you should go.
The Blue Paddle Bistro will satisfy your taste buds while also serving uniquely Vermont dishes that you can’t get anywhere else.
Address: 316 US-2, South Hero, VT 05486, United States
6. Knight’s Spider Web Farm
Knight’s Spider Web Farm
The Knight’s Spider Web Farm is one of the most interesting places to visit in Vermont, but it definitely isn’t for the faint of heart.
As you might have guessed from the name, the “spider web farm” is dedicated to spiders.
However, it isn’t just a place where these creepy-crawlies are raised.
They’re encouraged to spin their webs in square wooden frames, which are then preserved in a special kind of lacquer and sold as art.
If this sounds uncommon, it is.
Knight’s Spider Web Farm is the only one of its kind in the entire world.
It’s also a one-man operation run by an elderly gentleman who calls himself “Spiderwebman,” so it’s got a kitschy kind of charm in addition to a fun story and a collection of utterly unique souvenirs.
If you’re wondering what to do to make unforgettable memories in Vermont, it doesn’t get any cooler or weirder than Knight’s Spider Web Farm.
Address: 124 Spider Web Farm Rd, Williamstown, VT 05679, United States
7. Pond Hill Ranch Pro Rodeo Company
You don’t have to travel to the Midwest to enjoy an authentic, down-home rodeo.
The Pond Hill Ranch Pro Rodeo Company will give you a bellyful of dirt, dust, steers and spurs right in the heart of Vermont!
Held every Saturday, these rodeo shows are the real deal.
They’re sanctioned by the Professional Rodeo Organization (PRO), and events include everything from calf roping and steer wrestling to barrel racing and bull riding.
There’s also saddle and bareback bronc riding for multiple kinds of edge-of-your-seat action!
Despite the excitement, however, the rodeos are very family-friendly.
You’ll find tons of parents and kids crammed onto the stadium benches.
You can even come back on weekdays for the ranch’s all-ages horseback riding lessons.
If you love the rodeo, you won’t want to miss the Pond Hill Ranch Pro Rodeo Company.
It’s a Midwestern experience in a New England setting, and that’s rare enough to justify a visit all on its own.
Address: 1683 Pond Hill Rd, Castleton, VT 05735, United States
8. Vermont Historical Society Museum
Do you want to learn more about the great state of Vermont?
Check out the Vermont Historical Society Museum.
Located in Montpelier, the capital of Vermont, this museum celebrates just about everything related to the Green Mountain State and its history.
There are exhibits about food, fashion, flora, fauna and more.
You can look at real military coats from the Revolutionary War; you can marvel at stuffed taxidermy animals that originally lived near the Winooski River.
The museum also plays host to a number of special events, including low- and no-cost ones that are open to the public.
You don’t have to have a big budget to enjoy them.
If you’re looking for free things to do in Montpelier, the museum might be a good option for you.
All things considered, the Vermont Historical Society Museum is a must visit for anyone interested in what makes Vermont unique.
There’s tons of stuff to do and even more to see.
You’ll have a grand old time.
Address: 109 State St, Montpelier, VT 05609, United States
9. Vermont Institute of Natural Science Nature Center
Vermont Institute of Natural Science Nature Center
Have you always wanted a hawk to land on your outstretched arm?
Do you think it’d be the coolest thing ever to take a selfie with an owl?
Such things are possible at the Vermont Institute of Natural Science (VINS) Nature Center.
Though it primarily functions as an environmental organization, it’s most famous for its avian rehabilitation, and visitors come from all over the country to see its hawks, raptors, eagles, owls and songbirds.
Take a canopy walk and see the birds flying across the tops of the trees.
Watch a demonstration to observe how they’re fed and handled.
You can even visit the meadows and other outdoor habitats to see additional critters such as turtles and snakes.
Whether you’re a long-term animal lover or just a curious traveler who’d like to see the raptors up close, the Vermont Institute of Natural Science Nature Center is one of the niftiest places to visit in Vermont.
Soar to its location as soon as you can!
Address: 149 Natures Way, Quechee, VT 05059, United States
10. Ethan Allen Homestead
Spend enough time in Vermont and you’ll eventually hear the name Ethan Allen.
He was a patriot and politician back in the 1700s who defended Vermont by both word and deed, and he’s revered among the locals.
Vermont even celebrates “Ethan Allen Day” on June 23 every year.
The Ethan Allen Homestead isn’t the largest or grandest of Vermont’s attractions.
In fact, it’s quite modest: It’s just a simple 1.5-story house built in the traditional square colonial style of its time.
Inside, however, you’ll see that the building has been converted into a museum, and it boasts many relics from the 17000s.
Your tour guide will also have a ton of stories about Ethan Allen and the impact that he had on the survival of Vermont.
Check out the Ethan Allen Homestead for a real piece of local history.
It’s humble, but much like the state itself, it has a rich depth of character for those who care enough to look closer.
Address: 1 Ethan Allen Homestead, Burlington, VT 05408, United States
11. Coolidge State Park
Magicpiano, CC BY-SA 3.0, via Wikimedia Commons
Vermont is one of the most beautiful states in the US, and when you’re gazing down a tree-covered valley and breathing in the fresh, clean air of Coolidge State Park, you’ll understand why.
Coolidge State Park is the largest of the region’s parks, and it offers many fun activities for locals and travelers alike.
You can camp, fish, hike, bike, picnic, sightsee and more.
It doesn’t matter when you go, either; there are things to see in both summertime and wintertime.
Accommodations are available right there in the park.
The most famous are the “lean-tos,” or the wooden log cabin constructions built right into the mountain that overlook the countryside below.
How many times in your life can you say that you’ve watched the sunrise from a lean-to?
Coolidge State Park is a must see destination in Vermont.
Whether you’re looking for unique experiences or just a chance to escape the grind and enjoy the sights and sounds of nature, this is a place where you can get them.
Address: 855 Coolidge State Park Rd, Plymouth, VT 05056, United States
12. Vermont Antique Mall
Vermont Antique Mall
Located in the picturesque Quechee Gorge Village, the Vermont Antique Mall is a series of booths and stalls housed within an old-fashioned wooden barn.
It covers 17,000 square feet, so there’s plenty of room to move, but it’s still cozy enough to have a charming vintage feel.
Inside, the booths are stacked with all kinds of odds and ends.
You can find everything from vintage collectibles to beautiful homemade crafts and trinkets.
Food is everywhere; staples include cheeses, jams and syrups, but there are plenty of other treats to enjoy as well, including a locally famous fudge.
The mall also hosts a number of special events, so if you visit at the right time of year, you might be able to enjoy a scenic train ride or a wine tasting event.
You might even be able to pet some alpacas!
The Vermont Antique Mall is one of the best places to see in Vermont.
It might not be one of the most famous of Vermont’s attractions, but it gets rave reviews every year from people who stumble across it.
Are you going to be one of them?
Address: 5573 Woodstock Rd, Quechee, VT 05059, United States
13. Mount Mansfield
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Viewed from the side, Mount Mansfield looks just like a man’s profile.
There are bumps for the forehead, nose and chin as well as a small ridge for an Adam’s apple and two close-set lines for lips.
The chin is the highest peak on the mountain, and it’s often what people refer to when they talk about “Mount Mansfield.”
It towers over the rocks below at more than 4,393 feet tall.
You can climb the summit if you’re brave enough. You can also take a scenic drive that winds its way through trees and ponds.
The roads are closed sometimes because of things like mud slides, but as long as you check in advance and fill up your tank, you should be able to enjoy your air conditioner all the way to the top.
Mount Mansfield is one of the most fun things to do in Vermont, and as a bonus, it’ll give you a cool story for when you get home.
You can honestly tell your friends that you stood on a man’s chin!
Address: VT, United States
14. Brattleboro Farmer’s Market
Brattleboro Farmer’s Market
The Brattleboro Farmer’s Market is a bit of a misnomer.
While it does offer produce from local vendors, it’s more of a flea market or outdoor thrift shop than anything else.
There are dozens of vendors lining the block, and their booths are bright, colorful and stuffed to the brim with everything from homemade bracelets to hand-stitched quilts.
There’s a healthy aspect to the market, too.
In addition to the guilty pleasure stalls that offer cider donuts and maple syrups by the gallon, there are also granola bakers, organic fruit vendors and gluten-free food trucks.
Everyone is very friendly, and the vibe is just as awesome as the goods.
Long story short, you’ll have a great time at the Brattleboro Farmer’s Market.
If you’re looking for cool places to go in ‘boro, wait for the weekend and hit it up!
Address: 570 Western Ave, West Brattleboro, VT 05301, United States
15. East Corinth
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Beetlejuice, Beetlejuice, Beetlejuice!
If you’ve seen this 1988 classic, you’ll recognize the town of East Corinth.
While the movie is said to have taken place in Connecticut, it was actually filmed in Vermont.
East Corinth is just one of the seven villages that make up the greater Corinth area.
All of them have the quaint countryside look from the movie, so they’re filled with general stores, covered bridges, mom-and-pop shops and old-fashioned post offices.
You won’t find Corinth mentioned in a lot of travel guides.
It’s a quieter kind of tourist attraction, so don’t expect grandeur.
If you’re just passing through, however, or if you’re a movie buff who likes visiting film locations, East Corinth can be a pleasant place to spend an afternoon.
The locals are friendly folk, so if you mention that you’re an out-of-towner, they should be more than happy to guide you to the famous site seeing destinations of the area.
You won’t be the first Tim Burton fan to visit Corinth!
Address: 74-224 Jewell Ln, Corinth, VT 05040, United States
16. Get Air Trampoline Park
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Vermont is known for its natural beauty, but there are days when the weather isn’t ideal for outdoor events and activities.
What can you do when you’re forced indoors?
One idea is to hit up the Get Air Trampoline Park.
Located in Williston, Vermont, it’s an indoor recreation center with oodles of fun games and activities, so it’ll be a great way to burn off some energy with the kids while you’re in town.
Jump on the trampolines.
Dive into the foam pits.
Play games of dodgeball or slamball.
There’s even a ninja obstacle course if you think that you have what it takes to climb walls, scale monkey bars and clamber across nets and inclined slopes.
Bad weather doesn’t have to ruin your Vermont vacation.
If you’re wondering what to do or where to go on a rainy day, just make a detour to Get Air Trampoline Park.
Rain or shine, it’ll provide tons of adrenaline-soaked adventures!
Address: 25 Omega Dr, Williston, VT 05495, United States
17. The Lincoln Family Home
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Also known as “Hildene,” an old English word meaning “hill and valley with stream,” the Lincoln Family Home is a gigantic mansion that sits on a beautiful hilltop overlooking a valley.
Like you might have guessed from the name, it was also home to a famous family: Abraham Lincoln’s oldest son Robert Todd Lincoln and his wife Mary Harlan Lincoln.
Totaling more than 400 acres overall, the Lincoln “home” is actually an entire collection of houses, gardens, barns, carriage spaces and other buildings.
There’s an observatory where the Lincolns used telescopes to view the night sky; there’s a dairy-milking facility where they used to get fresh ingredients for colonial breakfasts.
The main mansion is also a must see in terms of Vermont attractions.
It was constructed in a Georgian Revival style in the early 1900s, and taking a tour through its wide hallways will transport you right back in time.
There’s even an old-fashioned pipe organ in one of its rooms!
If you’re looking for cool and unique things to do in Vermont, it’s hard to top the Lincoln Family Home.
You literally can’t find it anywhere else in the US.
Robert Todd Lincoln only ever lived here.
Address: 1005 Hildene Rd, Manchester, VT 05255, United States
18. Canteen Creemee Company
Canteen Creemee Company
A “creemee” is a special kind of ice cream that most people won’t recognize outside of Vermont.
It’s basically soft serve with a higher fat content that gives it an extra depth and fullness of flavor.
It’s a staple of the state, so whether you’re dining at an expensive restaurant or hailing a food truck outside of a music festival or farmer’s market, be prepared to see creemee on the menu.
If you’re looking for creemees in the Waitsfield area, you’ll want to visit the Canteen Creemee Company.
It serves gigantic portions of sweet, ice-cold creemees, and they range from traditional chocolate and vanilla cones to crazy confections that include everything from maple syrup twists to cotton candy sugar crystals.
Other menu items include burgers, hot dogs and fried chicken.
You can order an entire meal and not just dessert!
Don’t leave Vermont without hitting up a creemee stand.
It’s something that you have to try at least once.
Years from now, when you mention to someone that you vacationed in Vermont, it’s very likely that they’ll ask, “Did you try a creeeme?”
Address: 5123 Main St, Waitsfield, VT 05673, United States
19. Texas Falls
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Despite the name, Texas Falls isn’t located in Texas.
It’s actually nestled deep within the cliffs of Hancock, Vermont.
Formed roughly 12,000 years ago when the last of the glaciers receded from the rock, Texas Falls is a small but powerful waterfall that gushes year round.
There are several ways to reach it, but they’ll require putting on your hiking boots and roughing it, so be prepared for a challenge.
The effort is worth it.
Texas Fall is one of the most beautiful places to visit in Vermont, especially in the autumn when the colorful leaves of the trees frame the cliffs.
The only reason that it isn’t a top feature in travel guides is because it simply isn’t well-known outside of the state.
If you like hidden gems, however, Texas Falls is a must do in Vermont.
It’s an outstanding example of natural beauty formed by the dual power of nature and history.
Address: Hancock, VT 05748, United States
20. Saxtons River Distillery
Saxtons River Distillery
The only thing better than alcohol is maple syrup, and at the Saxtons River Distillery, you can indulge in both!
While best known for their spirits, the distillery also produces a wide range of syrups, many of which go right back into the spirits.
Some of their most famous creations include things like Sapling Maple Bourbon and Sapling Maple Liqueur Reserve.
Visitors to the distillery can take tours, enjoy samples and have a bite to eat at the on-site restaurant and bar.
It boasts an inviting, wide-open space where many parties are held.
If you’re interested in making a reservation, feel free to call anytime during business hours.
The Saxtons River Distillery is one of the top places to see in Vermont.
You don’t even have to be a big drinker to enjoy it; it’ll get you buzzed on the atmosphere just as much as the cocktails.
Swing by and enjoy a taste!
Address: 155 Chickering Dr, Brattleboro, VT 05301, United States
21. Shelburne Farms
vermontalm / Shutterstock
Have you ever wondered why Vermont is called the Green Mountain State?
It comes from the French words for “green” (vert) and “mountain” (mont).
In more practical terms, however, it’s one of the most accurate descriptions for tourist attractions like Shelburne Farms.
Rolling across vibrantly green hills under wide expanses of clear blue sky, Shelburne Farms is a gorgeous destination for nature lovers.
There are a number of walking paths that you can take around the property, and they’ll offer sightseeing opportunities without cars, phones, fluorescent lights or other city distractions.
The farm itself is also worth a visit.
In addition to the dairy barns and livestock pens, there are inns, cabins and restaurants where you can sleep under the trill of birdsong or try genuine Vermont cheddar and maple syrup.
Shelburne Farms is a strong contender for the most beautiful place in Vermont.
You definitely won’t want to miss it.
Address: 1611 Harbor Rd, Shelburne, VT 05482, United States
22. Old Round Church
Harold Stiver / Shutterstock
The Old Round Church is one of the rarest churches in the world.
You might not look at its small size and beaten-up white walls and think that it’s anything special, but you’d be wrong.
It’s one of the last remaining “round churches” in the world.
Actually shaped like a 16-sided polygon, the church is an architectural oddity, and no one is quite sure why it was built this way back in 1812.
Some say that it was symbolically significant because a circular church leaves the devil no corners to hide in.
Others say that it was the result of multiple feuding factions in the town coming to a compromise: Rather than building separate churches for the Baptists, Methodists, Congregationalists and Universalists, all of them could come together in a single house of worship.
Regardless of its origins, the Old Round Church is definitely a sight to behold, and it’s a historic one to boot.
Very few round churches are still standing.
This landmark can be considered one of the most uncommon places to visit in Vermont!
Address: 29 Round Church Rd, Richmond, VT 05477, United States
23. Robert Frost Interpretive Trail
Robert Frost Interpretive Trail
Even if you’re an avid hiker, you’ve probably never seen anything like the Robert Frost Interpretive Trail.
Not only does it offer beautiful sightseeing in the fields of Ripton, Vermont, but it’s also dotted with plaques of poetry from Robert Frost!
The trail itself is an easy, 1.2 mile loop, so it’s suitable for folks of all ages.
It doesn’t matter if you’re taking a leisurely walk with your stroller or warming up for an epic triathlon; the trail is neat, clean and well-marked with directions.
The highlight, of course, is the poetry that’s featured every so often along the mile.
Some of them might be known to you; others might be rarer or more easily forgotten outside of a high school English classroom.
Either way, however, you’re sure to enjoy the Robert Frost Interpretive Trail.
It’s a must do for any literary nerds out there, but it’ll be nice for all.
Address: Ripton, VT 05766, United States
24. Fairbanks Museum and Planetarium
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Despite its size, there’s only one public access planetarium in the state of Vermont.
If you want to see the stars up close, you have to visit the Fairbanks Museum and Planetarium!
Fortunately, the trip is worth it.
The building is a combination of a science museum and a history center, and it contains a treasure trove of objects, artifacts, photos, videos and exhibits.
Topics range from the tiniest of pebbles on the ground to the largest of galaxy clusters in space.
The museum also boasts several “special features” such as a live butterfly house, so there’s more to do than simply wandering the corridors and peering inside the glass displays.
In the planetarium, too, there are film showings, stargazing parties and demonstrations of various astronomy tools.
Consider a trip to the Fairbanks Museum and Planetarium if you want to get close to the night sky.
It’s one of the rarest of Vermont’s attractions since you can’t find a planetarium anywhere else!
Address: 1302 Main St, St Johnsbury, VT 05819, United States
25. Waterfront Park
Ilir Hasa / Shutterstock
If you’re on a budget, you might be wondering what to see in Vermont that won’t cost you an arm and a leg.
The good news is that there are plenty of free things to do in the state, including a trip to Waterfront Park.
Curling around a large, picturesque lake, Waterfront Park is a gorgeous destination on a sunny day.
There are playgrounds, boathouses, bike paths, athletic fields, skating arenas and more, so you can take advantage of the lovely weather with all kinds of outdoor activities.
The best thing about Waterfront Park, however, is that you don’t have to spend a dime to enjoy it.
You can splurge on everything from an ice-cold creemee to a sailboat rental for a day on the water, but it isn’t a necessity.
You can simply walk around, take in the sights and soak up Vitamin D from the sun.
Hit up Waterfront Park if you’re looking for free or lost-cost vacation spots in Vermont.
You don’t have to be rich to luxuriate in a picnic on the grass!
Address: 20 Lake St, Burlington, VT 05401, United States
26. Green Mountain Railroad
If you have “take a scenic train ride through the countryside” on your bucket list, the Green Mountain Railroad is the place to book it.
You’ll be taken through some of the most beautiful sights in the northeast, and all the while, you’ll be reclining on cushioned seats and enjoying the hospitality of a charming, old-fashioned railway service.
Rides range from short one-hour trips to all-day extravaganzas.
Depending on the season, you can book different tours such as the “Pumpkin Patch Express” in the autumn or the “Green Mountain Christmas Train” during the holidays.
You can also book year-long trips with fun themes such as “Burlington Murder Mystery Train” or “Champlain Valley Dinner Train.”
You don’t have to get fancy, however.
You can just book a trip that will take you through the fall foliage, the winter snow or the spring flowers.
Things like brunch are just a bonus.
If you want to see multiple Vermont attractions in a single trip, buy a ticket for the Green Mountain Railroad.
Since it passes by all kinds of sights and landmarks, it’s a way to cram several vacation experiences into one.
You’ll really get your money’s worth with a train ride through the countryside!
27. Freedlyville Quarry
Located in Dorset, Vermont, the Freedlyville Quarry is something of a hidden gem.
While it’s a popular site for locals, there aren’t a lot of travelers who realize its beauty or its potential for fun.
You see, the quarry is more than just a quarry.
It’s a holdover from the 1700s when mining was a big industry in Vermont.
It was abandoned over the years without being filled or cordoned off, which has resulted in a large, cavern-like space of glossy black marble where folks routinely gather and have fun.
Hikers pass through the quarry as part of a local nature trail.
Ice skaters use it in the winter.
Selfie-takers take some of their best shots there.
If you’re looking for fun places to go in Vermont, you won’t want to miss the Freedlyville Quarry.
It isn’t one of the most famous tourist attractions in the state, but its beauty and obscurity give it a real “wow” factor, and it’s exactly the kind of thing that travelers like to find when they go off the beaten path.
Address: 3817-5015 Dorset Hill Rd, Dorset, VT 05251, United States
28. Rudyard Kipling House
Daderot, CC0, via Wikimedia Commons
Also known by the name Naulakha, or “nine hundred thousand rupees,” the Rudyard Kipling House is where the esteemed author lived and worked in the late 1800s.
It’s been partially converted to a museum that celebrates his legacy, but a large part also remains untouched from its original days of habitation, offering a fascinating look into turn-of-the-century living.
The interior of the estate includes many rooms, including an office with a well-preserved desk where it’s said that Kipling wrote The Jungle Book.
Outside, there are pools and sunken gardens where the author went to find peace, and there are also several historic outbuildings such as carriage barns that were used before the invention of cars and garages.
While the Rudyard Kipling House is open to the public, reservations are encouraged, so try not to drop by unannounced.
If you want to go this weekend, make a reservation for this weekend.
Be courteous like Mowgli would!
Address: Naulakha, 481 Kipling Rd, Dummerston, VT 05301, United States
29. Vermont Toy Museum
Vermont Toy Museum
What does your version of heaven look like?
If it includes 100,000 toys, you won’t want to miss the Vermont Toy Museum.
Located above a quaint little general store, the museum is filled to the brim with rare and vintage toys.
There are dollhouses and model trains; there are figurines, telescopes, yo-yos, building blocks, music boxes and stuffed animals.
There’s even a wall with a vintage comic book collection that absolutely explodes with color!
Many of the toys have been collected and displayed by decade, so you can see the evolution of the toy industry from the 1950s to the present day as you walk through the rows.
Other charms and trinkets are simply strewn about for your amusement.
Another fun fact about the museum is that no one is quite sure who owns it.
However, it’s said to be “watched closely” by other vendors in the area, so in a way, it truly embodies an old-fashioned community spirit.
The Vermont Toy Museum is definitely one of the quirkiest things to see in the state.
You won’t want to miss the whizz-bang charm of its collection, so plan for a visit sometime soon!
Address: 5573 Woodstock Rd, White River Junction, VT 05001, United States
30. Morse Farm Maple Sugarworks
Morse Farm Maple Sugarworks
If you have a sweet tooth, this is the destination for you!
Morse Farm Maple Sugarworks is a family-owned business located just a few miles outside of Montpelier.
It’s part farm, part museum and complete fun, so you and your kids are sure to have a blast.
The “sugar house” offers tours and tastings.
The woodshed theater rolls informative films.
The country store offers all kinds of treats, crafts and souvenirs, and carved animals and folklore characters add whimsy to the space.
Nature trails are everywhere for those who enjoy the outdoors.
All things considered, the Morse Farm Maple Sugarworks is a top 10 location for candy and syrup lovers in Vermont.
It’s also great for anyone who loves cute and quirky places to go.
If you’re the type of traveler who always seeks destinations with “character,” get your taste buds ready for some sugarworks!
Address: 1168 County Rd, Montpelier, VT 05602, United States
31. Jennings Hall
Jennings Hall
Located on the campus of Bennington College, Jennings Hall is an imposing gray brick building that sits atop a hill and is covered with creeping vines and the slow, steady scrapes of nearby tree branches.
If this sounds like something out of a scary movie, your instincts are correct: It was the inspiration behind The Haunting of Hill House, a famous gothic horror novel from 1959 that has since been made into two feature films and a Netflix series.
As a college dorm, the modern-day Jennings Hall isn’t quite as haunted as its Hollywood counterparts, but it still has a legacy.
Students report that tons of tourists flock to the campus to see it and take pictures.
According to local legend, there’s a real-world basis for the ghost stories, too.
Residents have reported tons of creepy occurrences such as doors slamming on their own and cold drafts appearing out of nowhere.
Jennings Hall isn’t one of the craziest of Vermont’s attractions.
Since it’s currently in use by a university, you can’t really interact with it beyond taking pictures.
For movie buffs and horror story enthusiasts, however, it might be worth a trip.
Check out Jennings Hall if you aren’t afraid of a few ghosts!
Address: 1 Bennington College Rd, North Bennington, VT 05257, United States
32. Marsh-Billings-Rockefeller National Historical Park
Reimar / Shutterstock
Are you wondering what to do in Vermont in the winter?
Try Marsh-Billings-Rockefeller National Historical Park.
The name is a mouthful, to be sure, but that’s because it functions as a blend of three distinct areas in Woodstock, Vermont.
It covers more than 500 acres in total, and they form a breathtaking panorama that includes lakes, mountains, valleys, forests and streams.
You can visit the park year round; activities include everything from ranger-guided tours to hands-on demonstrations and workshops about nature topics.
However, the most famous vacation spots only open in the winter.
These are dedicated to skiing, tubing and snowshoeing around the powdery white slopes that take over the cliffs when the temperature drops.
Any time of year is a great time to visit the Marsh-Billings-Rockefeller National Historical Park.
Whether you’re vacationing today, tomorrow, this weekend or next summer, the sights will be waiting for you!
Address: 54 Elm St, Woodstock, VT 05091, United States
33. ArborTrek Canopy Adventures
MVolodymyr / Shutterstock
If you’re looking for cool places in Vermont, how about a ziplining company located in Jeffersonville?
Offering activities that range “from the serene to the extreme,” ArborTrek Canopy Adventures is a destination for all-ages, family-friendly fun.
Kids can be strapped into climbing structures.
Teens can test their mettle on obstacle and rope courses.
Adults can go soaring through the treetops on ziplines.
Families aren’t the only ones welcome at the site, however.
The company also provides team-building exercises for corporate retreats.
If you want nifty things to do in Vermont with colleagues, this might be perfect!
Check out ArborTrek Canopy Adventures if you’re looking for some high-octane thrills in Vermont.
Whether you’re traveling with kids, friends, relatives or co-workers, everyone can get their heart pumping here.
Address: 1239 Edwards Rd, Jeffersonville, VT 05464, United States
34. Fleming Museum of Art
Fleming Museum of Art
The Fleming Museum of Art is sponsored by the University of Burlington.
This means that, in addition to showcasing a priceless collection of both local and international art, the proceeds from the museum also go towards support for education.
Though the museum wasn’t founded until 1931, the university was collecting artwork as early as 1826.
It just didn’t have a safe place to put it all, not until they rallied and built a fine arts center that eventually turned into the art museum of today.
Visitors to the museum can enjoy everything from paintings and portraits to indigenous masks and vintage wedding gowns.
Most of the collection is divided by region, so you can make your way through African, Asian, Oceanic, European, American and Native American exhibits.
The Fleming Museum of Art is one of the best places to get a little culture in Burlington.
It’s okay if you aren’t a student.
The campus is used to visitors who are just drawn to the art.
Address: 61 Colchester Ave, Burlington, VT 05405, United States
35. Smugglers’ Notch Resort
Smugglers’ Notch Resort
Smugglers’ Notch Resort is one of the best things to do in Vermont.
Not only does it have cool origins, but it’s also been decked out with all of the activities and amenities that you could want from a ski resort.
First things first: Why is it called the Smugglers’ Notch Resort?
Back in the early 19th century, the craggy cliffs and thick trees provided lots of cover for smugglers along the US-Canada border.
The most popular cargo was bootlegged alcohol during the Prohibition era, but many other goods were bought and sold as well.
Today, there’s no illicit activity at the resort, not unless you count “having so much fun that it should be illegal.”
Visitors have tons of options for both indoor and outdoor entertainment.
Skiing might be the most popular pastime, but it’s far from the only one.
Book a room at the Smugglers’ Notch Resort if you want to enjoy winter excursions in Vermont while also creating a cool story to tell your friends and family back home.
You can sleep in the same area as smugglers and bootleggers from the 1920s!
How awesome is that?
Address: 4323 VT-108, Jeffersonville, VT 05464, United States
36. Estey Organ Museum
Estey Organ Museum
Have you ever been in a museum where you can actually play with the artifacts inside?
At the Estey Organ Museum, it isn’t only allowed; it’s encouraged!
You see, every instrument in the museum is made just a few feet away in the neighboring organ factory.
Some have defects that make them unsuitable for sale; some are deliberately designed to be fun and interesting as tourist attractions.
As a result, the organs in the museum come in every size, shape and color that you can imagine.
Some are as small as a breadbox while others are as large as a horse.
There are also a number that have been outfitted with mirrors, doilies and other decorations to enhance your playing experience.
You might want to buy a pair of earplugs before you enter since every visitor is allowed to make music at will.
If you want to join the concert, however, step right in to the Estey Organ Museum and let ‘er rip!
Address: 108 Birge St, Brattleboro, VT 05301, United States
37. Paramount Theater
Jimmy Emerson, DVM / flickr
Also known as “The Playhouse,” Paramount Theater is one of the oldest theaters in the region.
Built in 1913, it’s certainly the oldest in its native town of Rutland, and it might be one of the oldest in the entire state of Vermont.
The opulence of the space can’t be overstated.
It was deliberately designed to mimic a Victorian-era opera house, so it has plush seats, ornate fixtures and lavish decorations as far as the eye can see.
It’s the kind of place where you can go when you want to feel like a 19th century socialite or high society gentlemen.
The good news is that the theater is still operational, so you can watch plays and performances just like the flappers did.
In addition to its live shows, the theater also hosts all kinds of historical, cultural and educational events dedicated to the arts.
Put on your best blazer or your highest pair of heels.
It’s time to hit up the nightlife in Rutland, and that starts with a show at the Paramount Theater.
Address: 30 Center St, Rutland, VT 05701, United States
38. Pump House Indoor Waterpark
Pump House Indoor Waterpark
Another great place for indoor recreation, the Pump House Indoor Waterpark is open rain or shine, so it can be a nice retreat when the weather isn’t behaving for outdoor games and sports.
The Pump House Indoor Waterpark is actually a feature of the Jay Park Resort, but you don’t have to be a lodger to enjoy the amenities.
You can just buy a ticket online.
Once you enter the park, you’ll be faced with all kinds of attractions, including rides, slides, chutes and other crazy water attractions.
For example, the “Double Barrel Flowrider” is a mix of surfing and skateboarding that takes place on an unending wave.
The “Deep Water Activity Pool” contains everything from a climbing wall to an aquatic basketball area.
If you prefer taking it easy, there are also a number of pools where you can simply soak or take some leisurely laps at your own pace.
Get wet and wild this summer with a visit to the Pump House Indoor Waterpark.
It’s the only indoor waterpark in Vermont, so it’s worth the trip!
Address: 830 Jay Peak Rd, Jay, VT 05859, United States
39. Montshire Museum of Science
Montshire Museum of Science
There’s no shortage of natural science museums in Vermont, but if you’re looking for the best of the best, you’ll want to put the Montshire Museum of Science on your bucket list.
More than 150 exhibits showcase different types of flora and fauna.
There are live animal enclosures that include aquariums, ant colonies and honeybee hives.
A large-scale model of the solar system stretches across the landscape, and an observation deck on top of the trees will let you gaze at everything below.
In the summertime, clubs and workshops will let you and the little ones learn about nature.
In the wintertime, you can sign up for igloo building contests.
There’s so much fun stuff to do at the Montshire Museum of Science that you might need multiple trips to enjoy it all.
If you’re shortlisting cool places to visit in Vermont, put it at #1!
Address: 1 Montshire Rd, Norwich, VT 05055, United States
40. Whistling Man Schooner Company
Whistling Man Schooner Company
Are you looking for romantic things to do while vacationing in Vermont?
Look no further than the Whistling Man Schooner Company.
It offers cruises along Lake Champlain that will absolutely take your breath away with their shimmering, sparkling beauty.
Cruises are available on both public and private sailboats.
If you want to experience golden hour with just you and your sweetheart, book the Wild Rose for an individual sunset cruise.
If you’d like to make new friends, book a public cruise aboard the Friend Ship and chat away with 6 – 12 others.
No sailing experience is necessary.
If you’d like, you can just sit back and let the captain and deckhands take care of everything.
On the flip side, if you’d like to learn the basics of sailing, the crew will be happy to show you the ropes.
All things considered, the Whistling Man Schooner Company has a little something for everyone in terms of cruise trips.
You can make yours romantic or adventurous, thrilling or relaxing, private or sociable.
It’s all up to you!
Address: 1 College St, Burlington, VT 05401, United States
41. Club Metronome
Club Metronome
Nightlife enthusiasts, this one is for you.
Club Metronome is one of the hot spots in downtown Burlington when you feel like drinking, dancing and cutting loose in general.
Trendy music is pumped through the speakers while crowds move sinuously on the dance floor and toss back drinks at the bars or in the lounge areas.
Depending on the evening, there might also be special events like karaoke competitions or amateur comedy shows.
Live music is also a staple feature on the weekends; the club is known as a great place for up-and-coming bands.
The dress code is casual.
The menu is delicious.
The people skew on the younger side since they flock from the local university, but there are plenty of older folks as well.
If you know how to have a good time, you’ll be welcome here.
Check out Club Metronome when the sun’s going down but there’s still energy in the air.
Vermont might not be as notorious as New York or LA when it comes to the club scene, but it can still offer wild times.
Address: 188 Main St, Burlington, VT 05401, United States
42. Killington Ski Area
Ray Esteves / Shutterstock
Another great place to hit the slopes in Vermont, the Killington Ski Area manages to combine breathtaking outdoor beauty with everyday functionality for skiers of all ages and skill levels.
There are more than 70 miles of trails, and they’re spread out across 1,500 acres.
Diverse terrain ensures that every type of skier can find a landscape that suits them.
Beginners can take it easy on gentle inclines; experts can get the wind whipping through their hair as they tackle intense or tricky slopes.
If you aren’t a fan of skiing, don’t worry; you can also pass the time with snow tubing, snowshoeing and snowmobiling.
There are even sleigh rides available for the littlest members of your party!
If you’re wondering what to do on snowy days in Vermont, Killington Ski Area is the answer.
It transforms into a winter wonderland every single year, and there’s a little something for everyone in terms of fun.
Address: 3861 Killington Rd, Killington, VT 05751, United States
43. Great Vermont Corn Maze
Dennis Wegewijs / Shutterstock
Is there anything as quintessentially Vermont as a gigantic corn maze?
Covering more than 24 acres, the Great Vermont Corn Maze is the largest of its kind in the entire New England region.
It takes around three hours to hike it all, and you’ll cross paths with all kinds of obstacles along the way.
If you don’t feel up to three hours in a labyrinth, there are also smaller attractions such as the “Scenic Maze” that only takes 40 minutes to finish and includes marked directions so that you won’t get lost.
Snacks are available to keep you refreshed.
There are also dedicated play areas for young kids outside the mazes so that they can enjoy themselves just as much as the adults.
The Great Vermont Corn Maze isn’t easy.
There are disclaimers all over its website that will warn you of this.
If you’re up to the challenge, however, it can be a delightful and unforgettable way to spend an afternoon!
Address: 1404 Wheelock Rd, Danville, VT 05828, United States
44. Bellows Falls Petroglyphs
Bellows Falls Petroglyphs
One of the most interesting places to see in Vermont is the mountainous region with the Bellows Falls Petroglyphs.
They’re a genuine archaeological marvel that dates back to prehistoric times, and they’re inscribed right on the rocks for all visitors to see.
The most noteworthy thing about the petrogylphs is that they aren’t like any others that have been identified as Native American works.
While there are plenty of records of the signs and symbols used by the old indigenous tribes of Vermont, these don’t seem to have any particular origin.
Experts aren’t even sure when they’re from; their best guess is that the carvings are anywhere from 300 – 3,000 years old.
You don’t have to be Indiana Jones to appreciate a history like that.
If you want to see something that’s just plain cool, check out the Bellows Falls Petroglyphs.
Address: Above The Connecticut River, Bellows Falls, VT 05101, United States
45. Lake Willoughby
NEKVT / Shutterstock
Many things to see in Vermont involve the outdoors, and Lake Willoughby is no exception.
It’s one of the best vacation spots for folks who want to get out of the city for awhile and enjoy nature as it was meant to be enjoyed.
What makes it so special?
For starters, the water is crystal clear and absolutely stunning.
It’s sometimes called “America’s Lucerne” after the famed Lucerne Lake in Switzerland.
The surrounding scenery is equally gorgeous.
Berries grow in the warmer months; leaves fall in the cooler ones.
In the summer, you can go swimming and kayaking; in the winter, you can go ice skating while surrounded by snow.
Another nice thing about Lake Willoughby is that there’s no charge for admission.
You can drop some cash on things like lakeside cabins for rental, but if you’re on a budget, you can also keep your money and just enjoy the sights for what they are.
Lake Willoughby is a perfect example for free things to do in the Green Mountain State.
Address: Westmore, VT, United States
46. Rock of Ages
ChristineMinato / Shutterstock
Rock of Ages is a fun and appropriately-named tour of a rock quarry.
Even more appropriately, it’s located in Graniteville, Vermont.
There’s more to this destination than just its name, however.
It’s actually one of the most interesting places to visit in Vermont due to its incredible size.
There are more than 600 feet between the highest and lowest points of the jagged white cliffs, and a large portion of that space is filled with vividly green water.
Visitors can take a driving tour around the bumpy, rocky trails of the quarry and gaze in awe at its massive pool of water.
They can also stop by a visitor’s center with photos, exhibits, films and souvenirs related to the quarry and its history.
Just for kicks, they can even go bowling in a one-of-a-kind granite bowling lane!
If you’re looking for unique vacation ideas in Vermont, put Rock of Ages on your itinerary.
You’re going to have very few opportunities in life to bowl in a 600-foot rock quarry.
Take advantage while you can.
Address: 558 Graniteville Rd, Graniteville, VT 05654, United States
47. Wilson Castle
Wilson Castle is one of the weirdest things to do in Vermont, but it’s also one of the coolest.
Originally built in the 1860s for the staggering sum of $1.3 million, Wilson Castle was commissioned by a doctor who wanted to impress his wife, a member of the English aristocracy.
The end result was a gigantic three-story mansion with everything from stained glass windows to turrets and parapets.
It doesn’t have a single architectural style, either; it combines various elements of Scottish Baronial, Romanesque Revival and Dutch Neo-Renaissance.
Did we mention that it’s bright orange?
Wilson Castle is the kind of thing that has to be seen to be believed.
Thankfully, it’s open for tours most months of the year, so all you have to do is call and reserve a spot.
You don’t have to travel to Europe to see a castle.
Just visit the Wilson estate and revel in one of the most famous places in Vermont.
Address: 2970 W Proctor Rd, Proctor, VT 05765, United States
48. Snow Farm Vineyard and Winery
Snow Farm Vineyard & Winery
Get a taste of Napa Valley without having to leave Vermont.
The Snow Farm Vineyard and Winery is an utterly gorgeous destination that looks like something from a postcard with its green fields, blue skies and purple grapes ready to burst right off the vines.
Tours are available if you want to see the fields and factories up close.
There are also tons of wine tasting events to sample the wares and maybe even buy some to take home.
Additionally, if you visit during the summer, you can enjoy outdoor concerts held every week.
Musicians range from indie folk artists with guitars to award-winning symphony orchestras.
Get drunk on wine and sunshine with a trip to the Snow Farm Vineyard and Winery.
It’s a wonderful way to see the countryside of Vermont, and it’ll quench your thirst, too!
Address: 190 W Shore Rd, South Hero, VT 05486, United States
Start Planning Your Trip To Vermont
These are just a few of the best things to do in Vermont.
Whether you’re looking for outdoor activities like hiking and biking or indoor fun like bar-hopping or window-shopping, this is a state with a lot to offer.
Don’t be surprised if you find yourself coming back again and again!
Happy travels.
The post 48 Fun Things To Do & Places To Visit In Vermont appeared first on Busy Tourist.
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