Welcome to Vermont
It’s easy to see how Vermont got its Green Mountain State moniker. More than 75 percent of the state is blanketed in forest. And from east to west, north to south, the state is punctuated by rising peaks and rolling foothills—from the Northeast Highlands to the Western New England Upland to the Taconic Mountains to the Green Mountains. As such, Vermont is a dreamland for hikers, bikers, skiers and snowboarders.
Montpelier, the country’s smallest state capital, is quaint and highly walkable. Don’t miss taking a guided tour through the golden-domed Vermont State House, paying a tasty visit to Morse Farm Sugar Works or (if you’re visiting between May and October) taking a stroll through the State Street Farmer’s Market.
In Burlington, Vermont’s most populous city, you can explore an award-winning downtown area that’s packed with historic architecture, eclectic shops and great restaurants. Church Street and the nearby Burlington Waterfront, which hugs the shores of scenic Lake Champlain, are particularly popular destinations.
Foodies will enjoy Shelburne Farms, a National Historic Landmark and 1,400-acre working farm.
Adventure
Seeking outdoor excursions? The Green Mountain State is home to 21 state parks, 26 state forests, three wildlife management areas, a national forest, a national wildlife refuge and a national recreation area. It also hosts a slice of the Appalachian National Scenic Trail and is the home of the Marsh-Billings-Rockefeller National Historical Park.
The shores and islands of Lake Champlain are popular spots for visitors. In the spring and summer, the lake’s 200 miles of shoreline are great places for swimming, boating and fishing.
If you’re looking for a weekend or afternoon of great hiking or biking, head for Smugglers’ Notch State Park. This narrow pass through 1,000-foot-tall cliffs in the Green Mountains is a popular destination for hiking, biking and rock climbing.
Of course, the Green Mountain State is famous for its maple syrup. As such, the Vermont Maple Festival is a must-attend event. Held each April in Saint Albans, it’s packed with maple treats, maple pancake breakfasts and maple cooking demonstrations. If that doesn’t satisfy your sweet tooth, sample a scoop of Ben & Jerry’s ice cream at its Waterbury factory.