Over the years, I have spent a lot of time in Vermont. That is the state where I was born and raised. Growing up, I always saw the state as small and insignificant. After maturing, I have realized that Vermont is a blessing within itself. This quiet, peaceful, and quaint state holds these timeless towns that never lose their character. Unlike the big cities in the United States, Vermont is a state to focus on yourself and live the best quality of life possible. Between the picturesque landscape in fall and the delicious maple syrup produced, here are five things you must do when visiting the Green Mountain State.
Visit Lake Champlain - Lake Champlain is a natural freshwater lake that borders Vermont and NewYork. It even crosses the Canadian border going into Providence, Quebec. I usually visit Lake Champlain in the beautiful city of Burlington, VT. Home to the University of Vermont, Burlington has a lot more to offer as a city. The waterfront walk along Lake Champlain is one of the most beautiful waterfronts I have seen. It is the perfect place to take a romantic walk, go to dinner with friends, and swim after a hot summer day. If you want to learn more about the lake, you can buy tickets to ECHO, Leahy Center for Lake Champlain. It contains immersive interactive exhibits for adults and children. After visiting the lake, take a stroll down the infamous Church Street (which is within walking distance to the waterfront) to hit the shops or to grab a crepe from The Skinny Pancake.
Explore the Many Breweries - Enjoy the atmosphere of the classic breweries, whether you are a beer connoisseur or just going for a delicious meal. Here you can meet some of the friendliest locals around. The Vermont Brewers Association has a handy website for finding a brewery close to you. Sometimes they hold events around Vermont, which allow people the opportunity to taste the delicious beer produced, so keep an eye out! One of my favorite breweries, Long Trail Brewing Co., has a great facility and atmosphere, along with delicious beer flights to try.
Come During the Fall Season - For all the Fall weather lovers out there in the world, Vermont is the place for you. Enjoy your hot apple cider, in your scarves and brown knee-high boots, under the beautiful fall foliage above you. That is the busiest tourist season for Vermont, but visit and you will understand why. One of my favorite fall destinations is the Sugar and Spice restaurant in Mendon, Vermont. That is the ultimate cabin-style restaurant, where you can find all your desired maple treats and tourist gift items. You always feel like a local of the area with the warm greetings from the owners. I took this fall photo the first weekend of October, the peak of the foliage, right outside the front doors of Sugar and Spice.
Observe the Geological Formations - Who said geology couldn't be fun? Think about it. Many national parks are just that; geological formations. Vermont has some of its own. One of the more famous locations is the Quechee Gorge. Due to the beauty of the gorge, the Quechee State Park was established. Enjoy a classic camping trip, hike, or swim. There is so much to explore! If you do not have time to stay long, that's okay. The bridge with the best view is three miles west on U.S. Route 4. The view from the car is just as fantastic.
Hike, Hike, Hike - The best views I have seen of Vermont have been from the top of the mountains. Hiking is the way to go if you are searching for beautiful scenery or a creek to sit by. Enjoy the serenity and peacefulness of the forest as you make your way along the trails. These spots are fantastic for photographers or bird watchers as well. With the less populated trails, you will have the quiet environment needed to spot the shot or bird you have always been looking for. A great way to find a route to hike for your level of difficultly is using the app AllTrails. This app is easy to use and helpful when in an area you are not too familiar with. Many trails are not excessively populated, and you can be in your world with fantastic views.
Vermont has so much to offer. This state is a must-see due to the charm and rustic feel. Get ready to laugh with locals, have amazing views, and experience great beer. Vermont should be your next tourist destination.
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