Top-Rated Attractions: 20 Must-Visit Places in Vermont for Nature and History Lovers

Are you planning a journey through Vermont’s picturesque landscapes and rich historical tapestry? Discover the top-rated attractions that blend natural beauty with fascinating history.

From serene Lake Champlain to the historic Bennington Battle Monument, Vermont offers a tapestry of experiences for nature and history enthusiasts alike. Explore these must-visit places that showcase Vermont’s charm and heritage, ensuring an enriching adventure for every traveler.

1. Stowe

Stowe, located in northern Vermont, is renowned for its picturesque landscapes and outdoor recreational opportunities, making it a beloved destination for nature enthusiasts and adventure seekers alike.

Nestled in the Green Mountains, Stowe is best known for its world-class skiing facilities at Stowe Mountain Resort, which offers thrilling slopes and stunning views throughout the year. Beyond skiing, visitors can explore the charming Stowe Village Historic District, known for its quaint shops, cozy cafes, and historic architecture.

Outdoor activities abound with hiking trails that lead to breathtaking vistas, perfect for both summer hikes and winter snowshoeing adventures. Stowe’s natural beauty combined with its vibrant community atmosphere makes it a must-visit destination in Vermont.

2. Church Street Marketplace

Church Street Marketplace, located in downtown Burlington, Vermont, is a bustling pedestrian-only thoroughfare known for its vibrant atmosphere and eclectic mix of shops, restaurants, and entertainment options.

Lined with historic buildings and lively street performers, Church Street Marketplace offers visitors a unique shopping experience with a variety of local boutiques, and galleries showcasing Vermont artisans, and well-known brands. The area is also a culinary hub, featuring diverse dining options ranging from cozy cafes serving local specialties to upscale restaurants offering farm-to-table cuisine.

Whether you’re shopping for souvenirs, enjoying a leisurely meal, or simply strolling along the cobblestone streets, Church Street Marketplace captures the essence of Burlington’s charm and vibrant culture.

3. Hildene

Hildene, located in Manchester, Vermont, is a historic estate that once belonged to the Lincoln family. Built in 1905 by Robert Todd Lincoln, the son of President Abraham Lincoln, Hildene offers visitors a glimpse into history and stunning views of the Green Mountains.

The estate features a beautifully preserved Georgian Revival mansion, expansive gardens, and walking trails that showcase the natural beauty of Vermont.

Visitors can explore the mansion’s elegant rooms, which are furnished with period pieces and artifacts related to the Lincoln family. Hildene also hosts educational programs and events that highlight its rich history and contributions to the local community.

4. Mount Mansfield and Smugglers Notch

Mount Mansfield, located near Stowe, Vermont, is the state’s highest peak and a popular destination for outdoor enthusiasts. Known for its rugged terrain and breathtaking views, Mount Mansfield offers hiking trails ranging from easy walks to challenging ascents.

The summit, accessible by hiking or via the historic toll road, provides panoramic vistas of the surrounding Green Mountains and beyond. Nearby, Smugglers Notch is a scenic mountain pass famous for its narrow road winding through dramatic cliffs and boulders.

This area is popular for hiking, rock climbing, and exploring the unique geological formations that characterize Vermont’s landscape.

5. Burlington Bike Path and Waterfront Park

The Burlington Bike Path and Waterfront Park in Burlington, Vermont, offer a perfect blend of outdoor recreation and scenic beauty along the shores of Lake Champlain. The bike path spans about 8 miles, running from Oakledge Park in the south to the northern end of the city. It provides cyclists, joggers, and walkers with stunning views of Lake Champlain and the Adirondack Mountains across the water.

Waterfront Park, located near downtown Burlington, features open green spaces, picnic areas, and a boardwalk along the lakefront. It’s a popular spot for family outings, strolls, and enjoying sunsets over the lake. The park also hosts various events and festivals throughout the year, making it a vibrant hub of community activity.

6. Vermont’s Year-Round Ski Resorts

Vermont’s year-round ski resorts are renowned for their picturesque slopes and excellent skiing conditions. From Stowe Mountain Resort to Killington Resort and others, these destinations offer skiing and snowboarding opportunities during the winter months.

In the summer and fall, they transform into havens for hiking, mountain biking, and scenic chairlift rides that showcase Vermont’s stunning foliage. Many resorts also feature luxury accommodations, fine dining options, and spa facilities, ensuring a memorable experience for visitors seeking both adventure and relaxation amidst Vermont’s natural beauty.

7. Quechee Gorge

Quechee Gorge, often called “Vermont’s Little Grand Canyon,” is a striking natural attraction located in Quechee State Park. Carved by the Ottauquechee River, the gorge stretches approximately 165 feet deep and is surrounded by cliffs and lush forests.

Visitors can experience breathtaking views from the bridge that spans the gorge or explore hiking trails that lead down to the river’s edge. The park also features picnic areas and opportunities for birdwatching, making it a scenic spot for outdoor enthusiasts and nature lovers alike.

8. Bennington Battle Monument and Museum

The Bennington Battle Monument in Bennington, Vermont, commemorates the pivotal Battle of Bennington during the American Revolutionary War. Standing at 306 feet tall, it is one of the tallest stone structures in the United States and offers panoramic views of the surrounding countryside from its observation deck.

The accompanying museum provides insights into the battle’s history through exhibits and artifacts, showcasing Vermont’s role in shaping the nation’s independence. Visitors can learn about the bravery of soldiers and the significance of this historic site through interactive displays and guided tours.

9. Marsh-Billings-Rockefeller National Historical Park

Marsh-Billings-Rockefeller National Historical Park in Woodstock, Vermont, is a unique blend of natural beauty and conservation history. The park encompasses the historic Marsh-Billings-Rockefeller mansion, which was once the home of conservationist George Perkins Marsh and later owned by the Rockefeller family.

Visitors can tour the mansion and learn about its history and the contributions of its former owners to conservation efforts. The park also features scenic trails through managed forests, showcasing sustainable forestry practices and Vermont’s diverse ecosystems. It serves as a living laboratory for environmental education and a peaceful retreat for outdoor recreation in a historic setting.

10. Lake Champlain

Lake Champlain, spanning across Vermont, New York, and Quebec, Canada, is a historic and scenic freshwater lake renowned for its natural beauty and recreational opportunities. It offers stunning views of the Adirondack and Green Mountains, making it a popular destination for outdoor activities such as boating, fishing, and kayaking.

Visitors can explore the lake’s islands, beaches, and waterfront parks, or take scenic cruises to learn about its rich history and ecology. Lake Champlain is also home to various wildlife, including bald eagles and herons, providing ample opportunities for nature enthusiasts to observe and appreciate the region’s biodiversity.

11. Billings Farm & Museum

Billings Farm & Museum in Woodstock, Vermont, is a working dairy farm and interactive museum that offers a glimpse into Vermont’s rural heritage. Founded in 1871, the farm features Jersey cows, draft horses, sheep, and chickens, allowing visitors to experience daily farm activities and learn about sustainable agriculture.

The museum showcases exhibits on Vermont’s agricultural history, including displays on dairy farming, rural life, and the farm’s historic barns and equipment.

Visitors can participate in hands-on activities such as milking cows, making butter, and exploring the farm’s scenic walking trails, making it an educational and enjoyable experience for families and history enthusiasts alike.

12. Visit a Maple Farm

Visiting a maple farm in Vermont offers a delicious and educational experience centered around the state’s famous maple syrup production. During the sugaring season, typically from late February to early April, maple farms across Vermont open their doors to visitors interested in learning about the maple syrup-making process.

Visitors can tour sugarhouses to see how sap is collected from maple trees and boiled down into syrup using traditional methods or modern equipment. Some farms offer tastings of fresh maple syrup and maple products like maple candy and maple cream, providing a sweet and memorable taste of Vermont’s culinary tradition.

13. Brattleboro Farmers’ Market

The Brattleboro Farmers’ Market in Brattleboro, Vermont, is a vibrant community gathering place where local farmers, artisans, and food producers come together to showcase their products. Open year-round, the market features a wide variety of fresh produce, baked goods, cheeses, meats, crafts, and more, highlighting the diversity and quality of Vermont’s agricultural and artisanal offerings.

Visitors can stroll through the market stalls, chat with farmers and vendors, and sample locally grown and made products. Live music, special events, and demonstrations add to the market’s lively atmosphere, making it a must-visit destination for food lovers and supporters of local businesses.

14. Ben & Jerry’s Factory Tour

The Ben & Jerry’s Factory Tour in Waterbury, Vermont, offers visitors a behind-the-scenes look at one of the world’s most beloved ice cream brands. Founded in 1978 by Ben Cohen and Jerry Greenfield, the company is known for its quirky flavors and commitment to social responsibility.

During the tour, visitors can learn about the history of Ben & Jerry’s, see how ice cream is made from start to finish, and sample delicious scoops of their favorite flavors. The factory tour also includes exhibits on the company’s sustainable practices and social justice initiatives, making it both educational and deliciously fun for ice cream enthusiasts of all ages.

15. Shelburne Museum

The Shelburne Museum, located in Shelburne, Vermont, is a unique and expansive museum complex showcasing American folk art and culture. Founded by Electra Havemeyer Webb in 1947, the museum features over 150,000 works displayed in 39 buildings spread across 45 acres of beautifully landscaped grounds.

Visitors can explore exhibits ranging from historic buildings like a covered bridge and a steamboat to collections of folk art, quilts, decoys, and fine art.

The museum’s diverse collections and outdoor sculptures create an immersive experience that highlights the creativity and craftsmanship of American artists and artisans throughout history.

16. Fairbanks Museum & Planetarium

The Fairbanks Museum & Planetarium in St. Johnsbury, Vermont, is a family-friendly museum dedicated to natural history, science, and astronomy. Founded in 1889 by Franklin Fairbanks, the museum’s eclectic collections include exhibits on Vermont wildlife, meteorology, geology, and astronomy.

Visitors can explore interactive displays, observe live animals, and learn about the region’s weather patterns and ecosystems. The museum’s planetarium offers captivating astronomy shows that explore the wonders of the universe, making it a popular destination for both educational field trips and casual visitors interested in the natural world and beyond.

17. Montshire Museum of Science

The Montshire Museum of Science, located in Norwich, Vermont, is a hands-on science museum that encourages exploration and discovery through interactive exhibits and outdoor experiences. Founded in 1976, the museum’s exhibits cover a wide range of scientific disciplines, including physics, biology, ecology, and technology.

Visitors can engage in hands-on activities such as building structures, exploring water dynamics, and investigating live animals. The museum’s outdoor Science Park features nature trails, a water play area, and exhibits on renewable energy, offering opportunities for outdoor learning and exploration in a scenic setting along the Connecticut River.

18. Rock of Ages Quarry and Hope Cemetery

The Rock of Ages Quarry in Barre, Vermont, is one of the largest granite quarries in the world and has been in operation since the late 1800s. It is renowned for producing high-quality granite used in monuments, buildings, and sculptures worldwide.

Visitors to the quarry can take guided tours to see the impressive quarrying operations and learn about the history and craftsmanship involved in granite extraction. Nearby, the Hope Cemetery showcases unique granite monuments and sculptures, reflecting Barre’s heritage as the “Granite Capital of the World.” The combination of the quarry and cemetery offers a fascinating glimpse into Vermont’s granite industry and its artistic and cultural impact.

19. Park-McCullough Historic Governor’s Mansion

The Park-McCullough Historic Governor’s Mansion, located in North Bennington, Vermont, is a beautifully preserved Victorian mansion that serves as a window into Vermont’s political and social history. Built in 1865 for Trenor Park, a prominent businessman, and later home to John G. McCullough, a Vermont governor, the mansion features elegant architecture, period furnishings, and expansive grounds.

Visitors can tour the mansion’s rooms, which are filled with original artifacts and artwork, and explore the meticulously maintained gardens and carriage barn. The mansion offers guided tours that delve into its history and the lives of the families who once called it home, providing a glimpse into 19th-century Vermont life.

20. Green Mountain National Forest

The Green Mountain National Forest, spanning over 400,000 acres in southwestern and central Vermont, is a natural playground for outdoor enthusiasts and nature lovers. Established in 1932, the forest encompasses diverse ecosystems, including rugged mountains, pristine lakes, and dense forests teeming with wildlife.

Visitors can explore numerous hiking trails that lead to scenic overlooks, waterfalls, and remote wilderness areas. Camping, fishing, and wildlife viewing are popular activities, offering opportunities to experience the forest’s natural beauty up close.

The Green Mountain National Forest also provides habitat for a variety of plant and animal species, making it a vital conservation area and a beloved destination for outdoor recreation in Vermont.

Conclusion.

Vermont offers a rich tapestry of attractions that blend natural beauty, cultural heritage, and recreational opportunities. From the majestic peaks of Mount Mansfield to the serene shores of Lake Champlain, visitors can immerse themselves in outdoor adventures year-round.

Historic sites like the Bennington Battle Monument and the Park-McCullough Mansion provide glimpses into Vermont’s past, while museums and farm tours offer educational and enjoyable experiences for all ages.

Whether exploring the vibrant Church Street Marketplace in Burlington or marveling at the granite quarries in Barre, Vermont’s diverse offerings promise something memorable for every traveler. Whether you seek adventure, history, or simply a scenic retreat, Vermont invites you to discover its unique charm and hospitality.

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David Hoper

Meet David Hoper, a passionate travel Blog writer with 7+ years of experience in travel content. Through his exemplary storytelling and engaging narratives, he shares his experiences and brings destinations to life. With a keen eye for detail and a love for exploration, he has cultivated a diverse portfolio of travel blogs that inspire and inform readers worldwide.

Top-Rated Attractions: 20 Must-Visit Places in Vermont for Nature and History Lovers