Introduction
When I first set foot in Vermont, I thought I’d simply enjoy a lazy road trip through the countryside. But what I found was so much more—charming towns, jaw-dropping nature, quirky attractions, and a totally relaxed vibe that made me want to stick around longer. If you’re planning a visit (or just dreaming of one), here are 12 of the most fun things I discovered in Vermont that I think you’ll love too.
12 Fun Things To Do & Places To Visit In Vermont (2026)
1. Take a scenic drive along Route 100
One of the first surprises: you don’t need a super-planned itinerary. Just pick a road like Route 100 (which slices through a huge swath of Vermont) and enjoy the ride. According to travel guides, a Vermont road‐trip “especially in the fall when the foliage is at its best” is a top thing to do.
As I drove, I passed covered bridges, quiet farms, bright red barns, and small towns where time seemed to slow. Tip: stop whenever you see a pull-off, because the photo opportunities are everywhere.
See Also: 28 Best & Fun Things To Do In Cape Cod, MA
2. Visit the famous Ben & Jerry’s Factory in Waterbury
What’s more Vermont than ice cream? I toured the original Ben & Jerry’s factory in Waterbury and it was fun—plus that flavour graveyard (yes, they memorialize retired flavours) is wildly quirky.
Whether you’re into the sampling or just the colorful brand story, it’s a nice break from nature outings.
3. Stop by a working maple sugar farm & try a maple treat
Vermont’s maple syrup heritage is real. On one afternoon I wandered into a sugar house where they explained the whole process of collecting sap and turning it into syrup. Then I treated myself to a maple-flavoured soft serve (“creemee”)—seriously, you should try it.
Tip: look for local farms advertising tours or tastings; it adds a sweet memory to your trip.
4. Explore the covered bridges & historic towns
I fell in love with Vermont’s old-school charm when I began spotting covered bridges crossing little rivers, often in the middle of nowhere. Vermont has more than 100 of them.
Whether you pop out of the car for a photo or picnic by the river, these bridges are perfect little gems of a slower pace.
5. Hit the trails & enjoy nature
If you’re anything like me and crave fresh air, Vermont delivers. You can hike in the Green Mountains, bike scenic trails, paddle on lakes or simply wander in the woods. Noted guidebooks highlight the “Play on the Trails, in the Water” opportunities across Vermont.
My tip: bring good walking shoes and a sense of adventure—some of the best spots are off the beaten path.
6. Visit charming small towns — e.g., Stowe, Woodstock, Manchester
I loved wandering through towns like Stowe, Woodstock and Manchester — each with its own vibe. From upscale outlets in Manchester to relaxed galleries in Woodstock, Vermont’s small towns have character.
Bonus: pop into local cafés, check out artisan shops, and ask locals for their favourite hidden spot.
7. Enjoy farm-to-table dining & local food culture
Another treat: Vermont takes its food seriously. Fresh local produce, old-fashioned cider, maple syrup, local cheeses—expect to dine well. One guide says: “Touring a Vermont sugarhouse … the maple products like syrup, candy and creemees are beloved treats.”
My suggestion: check farmers’ markets or roadside stands for the real local flavour.
8. Sample craft beer & visit Vermont breweries
After some nature time, I switched gears and explored craft-beer culture. Vermont is home to dozens of great breweries and has even been called America’s “craft beer capital.”
Whether it’s a tasting room or a laid-back taproom, sampling local beers with a view (especially by Lake Champlain) is a fun way to unwind.
9. Visit a gorge or waterfall (e.g., Quechee Gorge)
I found a highlight in places like Quechee Gorge—a stunning natural feature where you can feel the power of nature.
Pack a picnic, take a scenic stop and soak in the view—sometimes those are the most memorable moments.
10. In winter or bad weather: indoor fun & wellness
Because I know not every day will be sunshine and trails: Vermont offers indoor options, too. From waterparks to spas, and escape rooms for the family.
So even if weather disrupts your plan, you have backup fun ready.
11. Take a lakeside moment at Lake Champlain
One evening, I strolled along the shore of Lake Champlain, watching the sun dip behind the Adirondacks. It was magical. And paths like the Island Rail Trail make for scenic bike rides along the lake.
Take time to relax here—it’s one of those spots where you breathe deeper.
12. Don’t forget the seasonal charm—fall, winter, spring each bring something special
One of Vermont’s biggest charms is how the seasons transform the state. Fall foliage is legendary; winter brings ski resorts; spring gives you maple-syrup time. Travel guides emphasise these shifting scenes.
If you can time your visit for your preferred season, it makes a big difference.
Final Thoughts
If you’re still reading, thank you for letting me share my Vermont journey. To sum it up: Vermont isn’t about flashy tower attractions or theme‐park hustle—it’s about slowing down, connecting with nature, getting to know places and people, and finding joy in little things.
Whether you wander through a covered bridge, taste fresh maple syrup, hike a mountain trail, sip a local brew, or just sit and watch the lake at sunset—you’ll find something uniquely Vermont-y.
Pack a flexible mindset, allow for spontaneous detours (that’s where the best memories often come from), and keep your camera ready. Vermont rewarded me with more than I expected. I hope it does the same for you.