Making your way to The Green Mountain State? Or, maybe you’re a Vermonter that’s been hanging around but hasn’t ventured out. Either way, you’re in luck—there are a TON of things to do in Vermont. Known for its densely forested landscape, charming communities, skiing, and cabins tucked into the woods, VT has no shortage of things to do and see. Check out some fun things to do in Vermont when you get the chance.
9 of the Absolute Best Things to Do in Vermont
1. Try your hand at glassblowing in Burlington
VT actually has a long history when it comes to glass-making and glassblowing. The first glass factory actually opened over 200 years ago. Today, the state is home to numerous glass studios, including The Bern Gallery. The gallery and glass school is located in Burlington and has been offering glass-making classes since 2007. Prospects who want to try their hands at glassmaking get to work with resident glass artisans to make glass pipes, pendants, and more.
Classes are offered for both groups and individuals. These classes are meant specifically for people with no experience, making them a very convenient quick day trip! The gallery has three in-house artists, and there is somebody on staff everyday. Weekend booking is available.
2. Go Skiing in Stowe or Killington
The majestic green mountains of The Green Mountain State make it a top skiing destination. If you want the best of the best when it comes to skiing in VT, plan a visit to one of the resorts in either Stowe or Killington. Killington is actually referred to as the “grandaddy” when it comes to New England skiing and ski resorts, but Stowe has some first-class ski resorts as well like the Stowe Mountain Resort.
3. Watch for rare water creatures at Lake Champlain
Lake Champlain covers 8,000 square miles and boasts over 580 miles of shorelines. This makes it the largest lake system in the Adirondacks. The area is naturally attractive to wildlife because of the water and undeveloped areas. However, Lake Champlain is rumored to be the dwelling place for legendary lake monsters.
One such creature has a name (“Champ” or the more recent name of adoration, “Champy”) and is protected by both VT and NY state laws. So, stop by for a canoe ride or hike—you may spot something extraordinary.
4. Take a trip to the Church Street Marketplace
If you make your way to Burlington, make sure you check out the Church Street Marketplace. This massive area covers four city blocks, boasts dozens of businesses, and is the place to visit when you want the best of VT.
No matter the season, something is always going on here, whether that is art shows, festivals, live street musicians, or otherwise. Plus, you get the best of local fare, history, craftsmanship, and shopping. Grab a handmade hat, hit up a vintage arcade, or scan the old records at a vintage vinyl shop.
5. Tour the Ben & Jerry’s Waterbury Factory
It’s safe to say that we all get excited when we open up the freezer to a pint of Ben & Jerry’s ice cream. So why not walk into a building that produces 350,000 pints of Ben & Jerry’s ice cream daily? Ben & Jerry’s Waterbury Factory is the first Ben & Jerry’s factory that opened its doors in 1985 and is their only factory that is open to the public.
On these guided tours you can see how one of America’s most popular ice creams is manufactured from start to finish. The best part? Adult tickets start at just $7!
6. Pick up some VT maple syrup in Montpelier
VT is often touted as the nation’s capital when it comes to maple syrup. So, be sure to grab some Vermont-made maple syrup to take home—you won’t be disappointed. Montpelier, VT happens to be home to the Bragg Farm Sugar House, which is an eight-generation maple syrup farm, gift shop, and all-around neat place to visit.
7. Try the Locals’ Best Products at One of Vermont’s Many Marketplaces
The Burlington Farmers Market on Pine St is one of Vermont’s biggest farmers’ markets. It is open to the public every Saturday from late spring through autumn and boasts over 90 vendors that sell local produce, prepared foods, and artisan crafts. There is also a market in City Hall Park on Saturdays. If you’re not in the Burlington area, here is a link to a map of all of the farmers markets in Vermont.
8. Enjoy the Stunning Nature of Vermont
If there is one thing that Vermont has plenty to offer, it’s nature and all of the exciting activities to do in it. If you like to hike, we recommend visiting Moss Glenn Falls in Stowe to check out the glorious waterfalls. If you’re a more advanced hiker, you should trek to the top of Mount Mansfield, the tallest point in Vermont at 4,939 feet. There are also countless great place to bike, fish, and kayak like the Stowe Mountain Biking and Brewery Tour and Lake Champlain.
9. Take in The Vermont Music Scene
If you’re looking to go out and enjoy some live music, there are plenty of venues throughout the state. Like Higher Ground in South Burlington, Nectar’s in Burlington, and the Champlain Valley Expo Fairgrounds in Essex Junction.
Live music popups happen all over town, so keep an eye on the bulletin boards for shows you might want to catch! There’s a large board at the Church and Main intersection, and if you drop by the Bern Gallery you’ll find flyers for shows just inside the door! If you come at the right time, you might just find some free stickers too!
There’s Never a Shortage of Things to Do in Vermont
Without a doubt, VT is an interesting state. From appreciating the rich history, local creatives, and food, to trying to catch a peek at the state-protected sea monster, there are lots of things to do in Vermont to pass the time. Want to know more about Vermont glass-blowing classes? Reach out to us at The Bern Gallery for the details.