Why Everyone Should Visit Vermont at Least Once in Their Lifetime
Nestled just a short 30-minute drive east of Burlington, the Green Mountains rise like a verdant spine through Vermont, offering visitors a chance to hike the Long Trail. This 273-mile footpath, the oldest long-distance hiking trail in the United States, weaves through some of the state’s most breathtaking terrain. Starting sections near the town of Waterbury let hikers climb moderate slopes with sweeping views of Lake Champlain and the Adirondacks beyond. The trail’s unique appeal lies in its blend of wilderness solitude and rugged ridgelines visible from the summit of Mount Mansfield, Vermont’s highest peak at 4,395 feet. Autumn colors here are legendary, making fall the ideal season to witness the tapestry of reds, oranges, and golds that blanket the forest.
Heading south to Windsor, about an hour’s drive from Montpelier, the Marsh-Billings-Rockefeller National Historical Park offers a rare glimpse into Vermont’s conservation legacy. Visitors can stroll through beautifully preserved gardens and historic woodlands that chronicle the evolution of land stewardship in America. The park’s interpretive center features exhibits on the pioneering conservation efforts of George Perkins Marsh, whose writings influenced national environmental policies. In the warmer months, guided tours reveal how the estate exemplifies a balance between human use and ecological preservation. The park’s pastoral charm, combined with its educational depth, sets it apart as a living classroom for sustainability enthusiasts.
About 40 minutes northwest of Brattleboro lies the charming village of Putney, home to the Putney School and its renowned art scene. The town’s arts center regularly hosts exhibitions showcasing traditional and contemporary Vermont crafts, including pottery and weaving. Just outside the village, the nearby West River Trail provides a gentle, flat route along the river’s edge, perfect for biking or a leisurely walk. What makes Putney special is its blend of small-town Vermont character with a vibrant creative community. Visiting in late spring when the wildflowers bloom along the trail enhances the sensory experience, making it an inspiring stop for artists and nature lovers alike.
In the heart of southern Vermont, Manchester sits about 50 minutes south of Rutland and is famous for its upscale boutiques and historic architecture. However, one of its lesser-known treasures is the Equinox Preserve, an 1,800-acre expanse of trails ranging from easy walks to challenging climbs. The Equinox Trail, in particular, offers a rewarding ascent to the summit of Mount Equinox, where panoramic views stretch across the Taconic Mountains and beyond. The mix of hardwood forests and open ledges creates a dynamic environment for spotting wildlife such as deer and peregrine falcons. The preserve’s accessibility and trail variety make it a year-round destination, with crisp winter hikes contrasting beautifully against the lush summer foliage.
Vermont’s cultural soul pulses in the capital city of Montpelier, just under an hour from Burlington. The Vermont State House stands as a pristine example of Greek Revival architecture, its golden dome gleaming amidst the surrounding hills. Visitors can join guided tours that delve into the state’s political heritage and the building’s 19th-century craftsmanship. Nearby, the Vermont History Museum offers exhibits on everything from the state’s indigenous peoples to its role in the abolitionist movement. Experiencing Montpelier in early fall, when the town hosts its vibrant Harvest Festival, adds a lively backdrop of local music, food, and artisan vendors that celebrate Vermont’s rich traditions.
Traveling northeast about an hour from St. Johnsbury brings you to the Fairbanks Museum and Planetarium, a gem for curious minds in the Northeast Kingdom. This Victorian-era museum houses an eclectic collection of natural history specimens and cultural artifacts, including gems, taxidermy, and meteorites. The planetarium offers immersive shows that connect visitors with the night sky above Vermont’s famously dark rural landscapes. The museum’s combination of science and local heritage provides a unique educational outing that feels both old-fashioned and cutting-edge. Winter nights here are particularly magical when stargazing programs highlight the crisp, clear Vermont skies.
Near the western shore of Lake Champlain, in the town of Shelburne just south of Burlington, the Shelburne Museum stands as a sprawling testament to American folk art and history. Visitors can wander through over 39 buildings, each housing collections from early Americana to contemporary crafts. The historic steamboat Ticonderoga, docked on the museum grounds, offers a tangible connection to 19th-century lake commerce. What truly distinguishes Shelburne is its blend of indoor galleries and outdoor historic structures, which together create a living village atmosphere. Summer visits allow for scenic picnics on the museum’s expansive grounds, punctuated by views of the lake and the Adirondack Mountains.
Finally, tucked into southern Vermont’s rolling hills near Bennington, the Bennington Battle Monument rises 306 feet as a stark reminder of the Revolutionary War’s pivotal moments. About 45 minutes from Albany, New York, this towering stone obelisk provides sweeping views across three states from its summit observation deck. The adjacent Bennington Museum complements the monument with a deep dive into regional history and folk art, including works by Grandma Moses. Visiting in spring, when the surrounding gardens bloom and the air is fresh, is ideal for combining outdoor exploration with cultural enrichment. This site encapsulates Vermont’s rich historical tapestry, connecting past and present in a way few places can.