The Most Iconic Foods and Drinks That Originated in Vermont
Vermont’s food and drink scene is deeply rooted in its rural landscapes and artisanal traditions, and nowhere better captures this spirit than the town of Middlebury, about 40 miles south of Burlington. At the Middlebury Farmers Market, held seasonally in the village green, visitors encounter the fresh, locally sourced produce and handcrafted goods that define Vermont’s culinary identity. Here, the maple syrup is a standout, flowing from the sugarhouses that dot the surrounding hills. Sampling syrup fresh from the tap, one experiences a depth and purity that connect directly to Vermont’s centuries-old sugaring heritage. The market’s lively atmosphere, combined with the pastoral charm of the Green Mountains nearby, makes spring and early fall ideal seasons to visit, when the harvest is at its peak and the air is crisp.
Heading east towards Montpelier, Vermont’s capital, the Vermont Flannel Company in Waterbury, just 15 minutes away, offers a unique glimpse into the state’s dairy farming culture that has influenced one of its iconic food products: cheddar cheese. Vermont’s cheddar, especially from local creameries like Cabot, has earned national acclaim for its sharp, tangy flavors. Waterbury itself is home to the Ben & Jerry’s Factory and Scoop Shop, a pilgrimage site for ice cream lovers. The factory tours here reveal how the state’s dairy bounty and quirky creativity combine to produce world-famous frozen treats. Sampling flavors inspired by local ingredients while wandering the quaint village streets is a delight any time of year, though summer offers the perfect setting for savoring ice cream outdoors.
In the heart of the Northeast Kingdom near St. Johnsbury, the Fairbanks Museum & Planetarium doubles as a cultural touchstone for Vermont’s heritage and its agricultural roots. The museum’s exhibits include explorations of Vermont’s farming history and the evolution of cider production. Hard cider, crafted from the abundant apple orchards of the region, is a beverage that locals have cherished for generations. Visiting the museum in autumn, when the orchards are ripe, is especially rewarding. Nearby cider houses offer tastings of small-batch ciders, providing a crisp and refreshing taste of the state’s orchards that have long sustained rural communities.
Southwest of Burlington, the village of Shelburne hosts the Shelburne Farms, a working farm and educational center on the shores of Lake Champlain. This historic estate is also famous for its artisanal cheeses, particularly the award-winning clothbound cheddar and creamy brie. Visitors can tour the farmstead trails, enjoy sweeping views of the lake, and witness sustainable farming practices that keep Vermont’s foodways vibrant. Cheese tastings at the farm’s creamery highlight the link between the land, the animals, and the craft of cheese-making. Autumn, when the leaves turn fiery shades and the air is cool, offers especially stunning views from the farm’s hilltop paths.
In the town of Brattleboro, about 45 minutes southeast of Keene, New Hampshire, the Vermont Country Deli is a social hub where classic Vermont staples come alive in sandwich form. Known for its rich, smoky Vermont maple-cured ham, the deli showcases how pork products have become an integral part of the local food culture. Brattleboro’s vibrant arts scene and the nearby Connecticut River add to the rustic charm of dining here. The deli’s cozy interior and friendly vibe make it a perfect stop during the brisk winter months, when hearty, comforting meals feel even more satisfying.
Further north in Burlington, the Church Street Marketplace not only buzzes with shoppers and street performers but also offers some of the state’s best locales for sampling Vermont craft beer. Breweries like Zero Gravity and Switchback are famous for their innovative brews that use local ingredients, reflecting Vermont’s pioneering role in the craft beer revolution. Walking the pedestrian mall on a warm summer evening, visitors can enjoy tastings from various breweries while watching the sunset behind the Adirondack Mountains. The marketplace’s blend of urban energy and mountain proximity provides a unique backdrop for experiencing Vermont’s contemporary drink culture.
Finally, the village of Woodstock, about 50 miles southeast of Burlington, is home to the Simon Pearce glassblowing studio and restaurant, perched over Quechee Gorge—the “Grand Canyon of Vermont.” While Simon Pearce is renowned for handcrafted glassware, the on-site restaurant highlights another Vermont treasure: trout. Freshwater trout farms in the area supply the kitchen, where trout is prepared with seasonal herbs and local produce. Dining here surrounded by dramatic gorge views is a sensory feast that combines Vermont’s natural beauty with its culinary excellence. Spring and early summer bring fresh menu changes to reflect the season’s bounty, making each visit distinctive.
Exploring these diverse places in Vermont reveals how the state’s iconic foods and drinks are inextricably linked to the land, history, and community. From the sweet purity of maple syrup to the boldness of craft beer, Vermont’s flavors invite visitors to taste a story deeply rooted in place and tradition. Each locale offers a vivid entry point into the state’s rich and delicious heritage, making a trip through Vermont a journey of the palate as much as the eye.