Best Places to Visit in Vermont
Searching for the best places to visit in Vermont? Well, you are in the right place! Vermont is tailor-made if you are like me and love the outdoors! For romantic couples, there's small-town charm, and a slower pace of life. Whether you’re drawn to its rolling green mountains, historic covered bridges, or maple syrup farms, I think that the state offers a perfect blend of relaxation and adventure. From my own four weeks of road tripping through The Green Mountain State, here are some of the best places to visit and experiences you won’t want to miss.
1. Burlington
I thought Vermont’s small lakeside city was one of the most effortlessly charming destinations in New England. Why? First off, it's a colorful blend of mountain-meets-water views, progressive energy, and leafy bike paths. Above all, I love its location perched along the edge of Lake Champlain!
From the White Mountains, I drove three and a half hours northwest and spent three days based at the stylish 3-star Hotel Vermont, right in the heart of downtown. I wandered through the contemporary galleries of the BCA Center for an hour, took in panoramic sunsets from the waterfront boardwalk, walk on the scenic Burlington Greenway along the lake for two hours, sampled inventive IPAs on a brewery hop at Foam Brewers and Zero Gravity, and browsed indie shops on the buzzing Church Street Marketplace in "The Queen City".
- Location: In northwestern Vermont, along the eastern shore of Lake Champlain
- Size: Approximately 15.5 square miles (40.1 square km)
- Location Map
What I loved best:
My personal highlight was a meal was at Honey Road, where I devoured a plate of smoky lamb kebabs with tangy pomegranate glaze, creamy hummus, and warm, pillowy pita — all shared mezze-style in true Mediterranean spirit!
2. Woodstock, VT - 1 hour 35 minutes from Burlington
Ready for a trip in the mountains? I thought that this town was one of the best places to visit in Vermont. Why? This town felt like stepping into a postcard, a quintessential New England village of white-steepled churches, covered bridges, and stately colonial homes.
From Montpelier, I drove about an hour southwest and settled into the elegant Woodstock Inn & Resort for two days, and from there I strolled through the picture-perfect downtown lined with boutiques, art galleries, and cozy cafés, then wandered out to the Middle Covered Bridge.
The surrounding countryside was just as enticing: I visited Billings Farm & Museum, hiked quiet trails around Marsh-Billings-Rockefeller National Historical Park, and admired sweeping views of rolling farmland dotted with barns and sugarhouses. A side trip took me to Quechee Gorge — Vermont’s own “Little Grand Canyon” — where the Ottauquechee carved a dramatic chasm through the forest.
- Location: In east-central Vermont, in Windsor County
- Size: Approximately 44.6 square miles (115.5 square km)
- Location Map
What I loved best:
Meals were my personal highlight as I savored a hearty farm-to-table dinner at Worthy Kitchen, and indulged in delicate pastries at Mon Vert Café which serves amazing organic food.
3. Manchester - 2 hours 15 minutes from Burlington
This town, nestled in the Battenkill Valley and surrounded by the Green Mountains, felt like a polished country escape and was one of my favorite stops in Vermont. It’s both refined and rustic, a place where you can pair designer shopping with mountain air in the same afternoon.
From Woodstock, I drove about an hour and a half southwest and checked into the classic Equinox Resort ($123) for five days, a grand hotel dating back to the 18th century, where presidents and heads of state stayed. By day we explored Hildene for an hour, walked around the charming village center, ducking into independent bookshops, and art galleries.
Outdoor adventures were everywhere: I hiked up Mount Equinox for panoramic views across the valley for two hours, strolled along serene trails in the Equinox Preservation Trust, and spent a quiet afternoon watching anglers cast their lines into the Battenkill Rive. In winter, Bromley and Stratton ski areas are just a short drive away, adding alpine energy to the village’s year-round appeal.
- Location: In southwestern Vermont, in Bennington County
- Size: Approximately 42.3 square miles (109.6 square km)
- Location Map
What I loved best:
Culinary stops rounded out my stay, as I devoured a wood-fired pizza at Christo’s, sipped small-batch spirits at Smuggler’s Notch Distillery’s tasting room, and enjoyed an elevated farm-to-table dinner at Silver Fork.
Local tip: If you are planning a family vacation, book a 1,496 square foot Townhome at The Equinox for extra space.
4. Killington
I adored this adventurous Vermont town when we moved to New England and I thought it was one of the best places to visit on a weekend getaway. First off, there were the rolling Green Mountains which made for such a natural setting. In addition, I loved misty mornings, and trails winding through quiet forests gave it a classic New England beauty.
Just a scenic 1 hour 40 minute drive south of Burlington, past farm stands, maple groves, and covered bridges, brought me to the mountain region where I spent three days exploring, unwinding, and breathing in crisp alpine air.
I wandered the slopes around Killington Peak, followed wooded hiking paths dotted with wildflowers, browsed small-town shops in nearby Killington and Rutland, and loved seeing the blend of outdoorsy ski-town energy with Vermont’s gentle, pastoral traditions.
What I loved best:
Staying at the Mountain Top Inn & Resort in nearby Chittenden (25 minutes by car), perched above a shimmering lake with panoramic Green Mountain views. I loved the warm timber interiors, the crackling lodge fireplace, and our cozy mountain room for two days.
5. Brattleboro - 2 hours 20 minutes from Burlington
Ready for a mountain and river escape? Check out Brattleboro, a real standout! This place felt like Vermont’s bohemian soul, an eclectic riverside town where historic mill buildings hum with live music. Set on the banks of the Connecticut River, it has a creative, slightly offbeat energy that makes it as welcoming as it is intriguing.
From Manchester, I drove about an hour and a half southeast and based myself at the character-filled Latchis Hotel ($127) for two days, an Art Deco gem that doubles as a working movie theater. My days began at Mocha Joe’s before wandering Main Street, ducking into independent bookstores, record shops, and artisan boutiques. The Brattleboro Farmers’ Market was a feast for the senses.
I browsed exhibits at the Brattleboro Museum & Art Center, caught a local music set at The Stone Church, and explored quirky galleries. For nature escapes, I hiked nearby Mount Wantastiquet across the river in New Hampshire.
- Location: In southeastern Vermont, in Windham County
- Size: Approximately 32.5 square miles (84.2 square km)
- Location Map
What I loved best:
Dining was eclectic and delicious as I lingered over creative small plates at Peter Havens, grabbed wood-fired comfort food at Duo, and ended nights with Vermont craft beers at Whetstone Station’s rooftop deck, my personal highlight.
6. Santa’s Land - 2 hours 10 minutes from Burlington
Just outside of Putney, tucked along a quiet stretch of Route 5, I stumbled upon one of Vermont’s quirkiest roadside treasures: Santa’s Land, a vintage Christmas-themed amusement park that feels like stepping straight into a mid-century holiday postcard. Opened in the 1950s and still family-run, it’s a blend of old-fashioned charm, kitsch, and pure nostalgia, the kind of place where every corner jingles with childlike wonder.
From Brattleboro, it was only a quick 15-minute drive north, and I spent 2 hours in the afternoon wandering through candy-cane striped gates into a winter wonderland (even in summer!). My son rode the miniature train, enjoyed cheerful animatronic elves, and wandered through storybook cottages decorated with twinkling lights and toy soldiers, my personal highlight. Kids squealed with delight on the merry-go-round and Ferris wheel.
- Location: In southern Vermont, near Putney in Windham County
- Size: Approximately 42 acres (about 0.07 square miles or 0.18 square km)
- Location Map
What I loved best:
I indulged my inner child with a swirl of soft-serve topped with rainbow sprinkles!
7. Bennington, VT - 2 hours 30 minutes from Burlington
Sitting at the southwestern corner of Vermont, this is one of the most unspoiled small towns I’ve explored in the Green Mountain State. I loved that Bennington is steeped in Revolutionary War history because it made this family trip education as well as relaxing.
From Manchester, I drove about 40 minutes southwest and checked into The Hotel Vervana at Bennington ($84) for two relaxing days. I stopped at the Bennington Battle Monument, and walked through Old Bennington, I explored the Bennington Museum ($16 for adults, free for under 17 and under), then wandered through local galleries and antique shops brimming with curiosities. Best of all, a short drive took me to three of Vermont’s most picturesque covered bridges, the Silk Road, Paper Mill, and Henry bridges.
Meals were hearty and welcoming in Bennington as I tucked into a burger and craft beer at Madison Brewing Company.
- Location: In southwestern Vermont, in Bennington County
- Size: Approximately 42.5 square miles (110.1 square km)
- Location Map
What I loved best:
Grabbing morning pastries from the Elm Street Market was my personal highlight.
8. Stowe - 45 minutes from Burlington
Nestled between rolling valleys and the dramatic slopes of Mount Mansfield, this is one of the most stunning mountain towns I’ve ever explored, and I think it’s one of the absolute best destinations in New England for anyone who loves nature with a side of comfort.
From Burlington, I drove just under an hour east and spent three days based at the chic Lodge at Spruce Peak, and during our stay I hiked part of the Long Trail through fiery fall foliage, rode on the Stowe Mountain gondola, and wandered around the charming main street dotted with artisan shops and country cafés.
A day trip out to the Ben & Jerry’s Factory added a playful (and delicious) twist to the itinerary, while evenings were spent in candlelit comfort, sampling creative New England plates at Plate and hearty farm-to-table classics at Harrison’s.
For any last minute gear purchases or rentals, visit Umiak Outdoor Outfitters.
- Location: In north-central Vermont, in Lamoille County
- Size: Approximately 72.7 square miles (188.3 square km)
- Location Map
What I loved best:
My personal highlight was stargazing over the mountain ridge, bundled in a blanket with the scent of pine and woodsmoke in the air.
9. Montpelier - 45 minutes from Burlington
Set along the Winooski River and surrounded by rolling hills, this is one of the most unspoiled capital cities I’ve ever visited, and I think it’s one of the absolute best destinations in Vermont for travelers who want authenticity without crowds. Why? Montpelier offers local bookstores, indie cafés, trails right at the edge of town, and a wonderfully down-to-earth vibe.
From Stowe, I drove a quick 40 minutes south and based myself at the cozy Inn at Montpelier for two days, just steps from the golden-domed Vermont State House. By day I strolled past the colorful murals and browsed quirky shops along State and Main Streets, caught an indie film at the historic Savoy Theater, and took peaceful walks along the Winooski River. A 45-minute guided tour inside the State House revealed both stately elegance and a small-town friendliness that makes this capital unique.
Food and drink were a big highlight: I sampled local brews at Three Penny Taproom, warmed up over espresso and pastries at Capitol Grounds, and browsed the shelves of Bear Pond Books for my next mountain-read. One evening ended with craft cocktails at the cozy Barr Hill Distillery tasting room, where the honey-infused gin was a revelation.
I think that Montpelier is one of the best places to visit in Vermont. Why? I loved that Montpelier isn’t about big-city bustle, but about savoring art, food, and community in an intimate, unhurried setting.
- Location: In central Vermont, in Washington County
- Size: Approximately 10.2 square miles (26.4 square km)
- Location Map
What I loved best:
For me, Montpelier is one of the best spots in Vermont. It's romantic, peaceful, and a favorite escape I can’t wait to return to!
Watching the sunset from Hubbard Park’s stone tower was my personal highlight, with the lights of the capital flickering below, felt like a perfect Vermont finale.
10. Middlebury, VT
Ready for a peaceful mountain-valley getaway? Check out Middlebury, a real standout! This charming New England mountain town totally won me over with its mix of boutique shops and cozy cafés, all framed by rolling Green Mountain views. I loved how it managed to feel both quietly historic and creatively alive at the same time!
Under an hour from Burlington, I thought that Middlebury was the perfect day trip and definitely one of my favorites! I loved strolling through the walkable downtown, admirde the Otter Creek Falls, and hopped between art galleries, farm-to-table restaurants, and warm little cafés.
Booking Checklist
1. Book Your Flight - I use Expedia because I like their mobile app with my itinerary. They've helped me re-book flights on many occasions. Once you reach their Gold tier, support is especially good.
2. Book Your Hotel - I use Booking.com or Expedia, depending on my destination.
3. Book Your Rental Car - I use Expedia.
4. Book your tours on Viator or Get Your Guide.
5. If you are planning to visit more than three national parks in the next 12 months, buy the America the Beautiful Pass.
