If you’ve never visited, you should know that there’s much more to this quintessential New England state than great skiing and great maple syrup … though both of those things are plentiful as well. There are ample opportunities to have fun in Vermont at any time of the year, so why not start planning your getaway?
Ben & Jerry’s Factory Tour (Waterbury)
If you don’t go anywhere else in Vermont, go here, especially if you have a sweet tooth. The home of such innovative flavors like Half Baked, Chunky Monkey, and Cherry Garcia, this ice cream emporium offers all sorts of treats for fans of the legendary brand. In addition to 30-minute tours of the place where the magic happens, winter visitors can opt for a snowshoe adventure through the “flavor graveyard” and pay their respects to dearly departed varieties such as Ethan Almond and Economic Crunch.
Quechee Gorge (Hartford)
After all of that ice cream, you might be ready to take a walk and get some fresh air at this natural wonder, right near the New Hampshire border. The landscape here lends itself to all kinds of outdoor pursuits, from skiing and hiking to fishing and canoeing. There’s also boutiques, a diner, a glassblowing studio, and more.
Cabot Creamery (Middlebury)
Not to get all cheesy, but you really shouldn’t miss out on this legen-dairy stop during a visit to VT. While there is a store in Quechee Gorge Village, the headquarters in Middlebury is the spot to see the talented cheese-makers in action and score some serious free samples, too.
Rock of Ages (Barre)
No, we’re not talking about the Broadway musical full of ‘80s hair bands, but this granite quarry is just as cool. Besides taking an old-fashioned tour, you can shoot for a strike at the granite bowling lane, or even create your own sandblasted stone souvenir.
Magic Hat Brewing Company and Artifactory (South Burlington)
Located in South Burlington, this brewery has been operating since 1994 and is a local favorite. After getting the lowdown on hops, taps, and all of that good stuff, you’ll get the chance to taste the fruits of the brewery’s labor. If you’re of age, that is!
Church St. Marketplace (Burlington)
Whether it’s the dead of winter or the dog days of summer, you’ll find something fun to at this vibrant shopping and dining destination in the heart of Burlington. From eclectic local eateries and popular cafe chains to funky boutiques and big department stores, this hot spot has it all.
