The Ultimate Family Vacation Guide to Vermont
Nestled in the heart of Vermont’s Green Mountains, the Camel’s Hump State Park, about 25 miles east of Burlington, offers families a classic outdoor adventure that showcases the state’s rugged natural beauty. The park’s crown jewel, Camel’s Hump, rises to 4,083 feet, making it the highest peak in the Green Mountains outside the Presidential Range. The Burrows Trail is a favorite route for families looking for a moderately challenging hike—about 3.7 miles one way through dense forests and mossy boulders—to reach the summit. From the top, panoramic views stretch across the valley to Lake Champlain and the Adirondacks beyond. Visiting in late summer or early fall rewards hikers with lush wildflowers or the vivid tapestry of changing leaves, making it a seasonally transformative experience that introduces kids to Vermont’s iconic foliage spectacle.
About 15 miles south of Montpelier, the quaint town of Waterbury serves as a delightful hub for families craving both culture and culinary treats. The Vermont Teddy Bear Factory invites visitors to tour its workshop and watch artisans handcraft these soft companions, an interactive experience that enchants children and adults alike. Just a few blocks away, the nearby Ben & Jerry’s Factory offers a scoop of Vermont’s famous ice cream and a behind-the-scenes look at how the quirky, beloved flavors are made. Waterbury’s charm lies in this blend of artisanal craftsmanship and foodie culture, perfect for a relaxed afternoon that combines education and indulgence. Spring and summer months are ideal for strolling the town’s streets and enjoying the vibrant greenery around, but the factory experiences remain engaging year-round.
Southwest of Manchester, about an hour’s drive from Rutland, sits Hildene, the historic Lincoln Family Home. This beautifully preserved mansion was the summer residence of Robert Todd Lincoln, the son of President Abraham Lincoln. Families can explore the mansion’s well-preserved rooms filled with original furnishings, as well as expansive gardens and hiking trails on the estate grounds. The property’s working dairy farm offers a glimpse into Vermont’s agricultural traditions, making it a living history lesson. Hildene stands out because it combines presidential heritage with rural Vermont charm, providing an educational yet hands-on experience for children fascinated by history. Visiting during the warmer months allows families to enjoy the gardens in full bloom and the farm’s active season.
In the northeastern part of the state, about 50 miles east of St. Johnsbury, the Northeast Kingdom brings a quieter, more rural Vermont experience to families craving wide-open spaces. Burke Mountain offers an approachable introduction to mountain biking and hiking with several gentle trails suitable for kids, like the Burke Mountain Trail, which provides sweeping views of Lake Willoughby and the surrounding forests. In winter, the mountain transforms into a family-friendly ski destination with gentle slopes perfect for beginners. The Northeast Kingdom’s untouched feel and relative remoteness make it stand apart from more tourist-heavy parts of Vermont, offering a true sense of wilderness and tranquility. Summer visits reveal vibrant wildflower displays, while autumn offers some of the state’s most brilliant fall colors.
Just a short drive, about 10 miles north of Burlington, lies the ECHO Leahy Center for Lake Champlain on the waterfront in Burlington’s vibrant downtown district. This interactive science museum is perfect for families interested in ecology and the natural world, focusing on the unique ecosystem of Lake Champlain. Kids can engage with live animal exhibits, touch tanks, and hands-on displays that teach about the lake’s fish, birds, and plants. The center’s location on the waterfront allows for beautiful views of the Adirondacks across the water and easy access to the nearby Burlington Bike Path, where families can rent bikes and explore the scenic shoreline. Spring through fall is the best time to visit, as the outdoor spaces and trails come alive with activity and wildlife.
About 40 miles south of Montpelier, the town of Woodstock beckons families with its quintessential New England charm and the Marsh-Billings-Rockefeller National Historical Park. This park preserves a unique blend of conservation history, a beautiful mansion, and miles of walking trails through forests and gardens. Guided tours of the historic Vermont Country Store in Woodstock’s village give a sense of old-fashioned shopping and local lore, while the park’s forest trails, such as the easy 2-mile Billings Loop, introduce children to sustainable forestry practices and native wildlife habitats. The park’s peaceful setting and educational focus on conservation make it a one-of-a-kind cultural experience in Vermont. Fall is a standout season here, with spectacular foliage framing the stately home and surrounding woods.
Finally, for a cozy winter family retreat, consider Jay Peak Resort, located about 85 miles northeast of Burlington near the Canadian border. Known for some of the best snow conditions in the Northeast, Jay Peak offers ski and snowboard lessons tailored to young learners, along with ice skating and indoor waterpark fun at the Pump House Indoor Waterpark. The mountain’s diverse terrain, from gentle beginner slopes to challenging runs, ensures every family member finds their perfect level of adventure. Beyond winter sports, the resort’s location near the scenic Missisquoi River and Jay State Forest provides opportunities for summer hiking and wildlife spotting. Winter visits showcase Vermont’s snowy magic, while summer offers a lush, green playground for outdoor family fun.