Vermont Republic Second Vermont Republic
As one of the country’s greenest and most picturesque states, Vermont offers a ton of things to do. From all sorts of outdoor adventure and cultural attractions to fantastic craft brew scenes and mouth-watering eats, there’s something for everyone in this beautiful part of the U.S.
Below are some of our favorite things to do in the ‘Green Mountain State.’
1. Head to Burlington’s Church Street Marketplace
Church Street Marketplace is an award-winning outdoor mall that might have you searching through Burlington real estate on Redfin to find a place that allows you to enjoy it whenever you like. It’s spread across four city blocks and features more than 100 places to dine and shop, including plenty of unique, one-of-a-kind options.
It also hosts many festivals year-round. During the warmer months, on any given day, you’ll be able to catch live local music and watch a variety of street entertainers. Seasonal events are hosted here, too, including a fantastic holiday market.
2. Discover the Secrets of Ben and Jerry’s Ice Cream
Just 30 minutes southeast of Burlington in Waterbury, you’ll find the famous Ben and Jerry’s Ice Cream factory. Tours are available to allow you to see how its deliciousness is made, as well as to visit the Flavor Graveyard that pays tribute to flavors no longer made. There is also a gift shop, and of course, plenty of tasty samples.
3. Take a Covered Bridges Driving Tour
Vermont is home to over 100 covered bridges, with more per square mile than any other state. Especially picturesque, they make for great photo-ops and date anywhere from 1820 to the late 19th-century. You can even travel the world’s longest two-span covered bridge by driving over the Windsor Cornish Covered Bridge that stretches between Windsor, Vermont, and Cornish, New Hampshire.
Woodstock, in particular, is surrounded by covered bridges, with a couple right in town. Although, you could create your own covered driving tour of many more, perhaps starting from Woodstock and then visiting places like Taftsville, White River Junction, Hartland, and Windsor.
4. Hike or Ski in Stowe
The postcard-perfect town of Stowe has long been a popular place to ski in the northeast. It’s home to the state’s highest peak, which soars nearly 4,400 feet above sea level. But it not only offers excellent powder – when the snow has melted, it provides fabulous hiking with miles and miles of scenic trails.
5. Delve Into History and More in Chester
Chester is home to countless museums, theaters, art galleries, and antique shops. Its Stone Village Historic District is especially charming and is included on the National Register of Historic Places – it’s also been ranked among New England’s best places for antiques.
Not surprisingly, there are several historical attractions, too, with the most popular, Hildene, the Lincoln Family Home. This 1905 Georgian Revival summer residence was the family home of Robert Todd Lincoln and descendants of President Abraham Lincoln until the mid-1970s. Self-guided and guided tours are available at the house.
It offers gorgeous grounds that feature a formal garden, including more than a thousand peony blossoms from original plantings, the Dene Farm, a solar-powered goat dairy and cheese-making facility. Also, historic carriage barn, floating wetland boardwalk and walking trails, all spread across over 400 acres.
