Are you looking to explore the beautiful surroundings of Vermont on a day trip? Vermont is a state known for its stunning landscapes, charming towns, and outdoor recreational opportunities. Embarking on day trips from Vermont is a fantastic way to experience the diverse attractions that the region has to offer. Whether you’re interested in scenic drives, outdoor adventures, or cultural experiences, there are plenty of options to choose from for an unforgettable day trip. Join us as we uncover the best destinations and activities for day trips from Vermont.
Lake Champlain
Travel tips
- Distance from Vermont : Approximately 60 miles
- Time to get there: Around 1.5 hours by car
- How to get there: You can drive to Lake Champlain from Vermont VT via I-89 S. Alternatively, you can take a bus from Burlington, VT to Plattsburgh, NY and then transfer to a local bus to reach Lake Champlain. There are no direct train stations near Lake Champlain.
- Click for Google maps directions: Lake Champlain
Exploring Lake Champlain: Things to do
Lake Champlain is a must-see destination for nature lovers and history enthusiasts alike. The lake, stretching across Vermont and New York, offers a unique blend of outdoor activities and cultural experiences.
One of the top things to do at Lake Champlain is to explore the historic sites surrounding the lake. Visit the Lake Champlain Maritime Museum to learn about the region’s rich maritime history and see exhibits showcasing the lake’s importance in shaping the area’s past.
For outdoor enthusiasts, Lake Champlain provides ample opportunities for water activities such as kayaking, paddleboarding, and fishing. The lake’s crystal-clear waters and scenic surroundings make it a perfect spot for a day of relaxation and adventure.
Nature lovers will appreciate the diverse wildlife that calls Lake Champlain home. Birdwatching along the lake’s shores or hiking in the nearby Adirondack Mountains offer a chance to spot a variety of bird species and other wildlife in their natural habitat.
Don’t miss the chance to take a scenic cruise on Lake Champlain, where you can enjoy breathtaking views of the surrounding mountains and islands. Whether you’re looking for a peaceful retreat or an active day out in nature, Lake Champlain has something to offer every visitor.
Stowe
Travel tips
- Distance from Vermont to Stowe: 30 miles
- Time to get there: Approximately 45 minutes by car
- How to get there: You can reach Stowe from Vermont VT by taking Interstate 89 North. The nearest bus station is the Waterbury Park & Ride, and the nearest train station is Waterbury-Stowe Amtrak Station.
- Click for Google maps directions: Stowe
Exploring Stowe: Things to do
Stowe, a charming town in Vermont, is a must-see destination for nature lovers and outdoor enthusiasts. Known for its picturesque landscapes and outdoor recreational opportunities, Stowe offers a perfect blend of adventure and relaxation.
One of the top things to do in Stowe is to visit Stowe Mountain Resort, a premier ski destination in the winter and a hub for outdoor activities in the summer. Whether you enjoy skiing, snowboarding, hiking, or mountain biking, Stowe Mountain Resort has something for everyone.
For a more leisurely experience, take a stroll through Stowe Village, where you can explore quaint shops, art galleries, and local eateries. Don’t miss the opportunity to sample Vermont’s famous maple syrup or indulge in farm-to-table cuisine at one of the town’s cozy restaurants.
Nature enthusiasts will appreciate the beauty of Smugglers’ Notch State Park, a scenic area known for its hiking trails, waterfalls, and stunning mountain views. Take a hike to Sterling Pond or enjoy a picnic by the river for a peaceful escape into nature.
If you’re looking for a unique experience, consider taking a hot air balloon ride over the Green Mountains or embarking on a guided tour of the Trapp Family Lodge, the former home of the von Trapp family of “The Sound of Music” fame.
Overall, Stowe offers a perfect retreat for those seeking a mix of outdoor adventure, cultural experiences, and natural beauty. Whether you’re visiting for a day trip or a longer stay, Stowe is sure to leave you with lasting memories of Vermont’s scenic wonders.
Burlington
Travel tips
- Distance from Vermont: 42 miles
- Time to get there: Approximately 1 hour by car
- How to get there: You can reach Burlington from Vermont VT by taking Interstate 89 North. The bus station in Burlington is the Downtown Transit Center, and the closest train station is in Essex Junction.
- Click for Google maps directions: Burlington
Exploring Burlington: Things to do
Burlington, Vermont, is a charming city that offers a unique blend of outdoor adventures, cultural experiences, and culinary delights. One of the top attractions in Burlington is the Church Street Marketplace, a bustling pedestrian mall filled with shops, restaurants, and street performers. Strolling along this vibrant street is a must-do activity for visitors looking to soak up the local atmosphere.
For nature lovers, a visit to the Waterfront Park is highly recommended. This scenic park overlooks Lake Champlain and offers stunning views of the Adirondack Mountains. Visitors can enjoy a leisurely walk or bike ride along the waterfront trail, or simply relax on the grassy lawns and watch the boats go by.
Art enthusiasts will appreciate a visit to the Fleming Museum of Art, located on the University of Vermont campus. This museum houses a diverse collection of art and artifacts from around the world, including works by renowned artists such as Winslow Homer and Georgia O’Keeffe.
Foodies will delight in Burlington’s thriving culinary scene, which boasts an array of farm-to-table restaurants, craft breweries, and artisanal food producers. Be sure to sample some local specialties, such as Vermont cheddar cheese, maple syrup, and apple cider donuts.
Overall, Burlington is a must-see destination for travelers seeking a perfect blend of outdoor recreation, cultural experiences, and delicious food. Whether you’re exploring the bustling downtown area or enjoying the natural beauty of Lake Champlain, Burlington has something to offer for everyone.
Ben & Jerry’s Factory
Travel tips
- Distance from Vermont: 30 miles
- Time to get there: Approximately 45 minutes by car
- How to get there: The best way to reach Ben & Jerry’s Factory from Vermont VT is by car. Simply take I-89 N and follow the signs to Waterbury, where the factory is located. If you prefer public transportation, you can take a bus from Vermont VT to Waterbury and then a short taxi ride to the factory.
- Click for Google maps directions: Ben & Jerry’s Factory
Exploring Ben & Jerry’s Factory: Things to do
Ben & Jerry’s Factory is a must-see destination for ice cream lovers and anyone interested in the process of making this beloved frozen treat. The factory tour offers visitors a behind-the-scenes look at how Ben & Jerry’s ice cream is made, from the sourcing of ingredients to the final packaging. You can witness the production line in action and even sample some freshly made flavors.
Aside from the tour, there are other activities to enjoy at the factory. The Flavor Graveyard is a unique and quirky attraction where discontinued flavors are laid to rest, complete with humorous epitaphs. Visitors can pay their respects to flavors of the past and learn about the creative process behind each one.
For those looking to satisfy their sweet tooth, the Scoop Shop at the factory offers a wide selection of flavors to choose from, including exclusive flavors only available at the factory. You can indulge in a scoop or two of your favorite flavor or try something new and unique.
Overall, Ben & Jerry’s Factory provides a fun and informative experience for visitors of all ages. Whether you’re a fan of their ice cream or simply curious about the production process, a visit to the factory is sure to be a memorable and delicious outing.
Montpelier
Travel tips
- Distance from Vermont: 38 miles
- Time to get there: Approximately 45 minutes by car
- To get to Montpelier from Vermont VT, you can take the Greyhound bus from Burlington or the Amtrak train from Waterbury. The bus station in Burlington is located at 1200 Airport Dr, and the train station in Waterbury is at 8081 Waterbury-Stowe Rd.
- Click for Google maps directions: Montpelier
Exploring Montpelier: Things to do
Montpelier, the capital of Vermont, is a charming city that offers a unique blend of history, culture, and natural beauty. One of the must-see places in Montpelier is the Vermont State House, a stunning architectural masterpiece that houses the state government. Visitors can take a guided tour of the building to learn about its history and significance.
For nature lovers, Hubbard Park is a great place to explore. This 194-acre park offers hiking trails, picnic areas, and stunning views of the surrounding mountains. Another popular attraction in Montpelier is the Morse Farm Maple Sugarworks, where visitors can learn about the maple sugaring process and sample delicious maple products.
Art enthusiasts will appreciate a visit to the T.W. Wood Gallery, which showcases the work of local and regional artists. The gallery features a diverse collection of paintings, sculptures, and other artworks. Additionally, Montpelier is home to a vibrant food scene, with numerous restaurants and cafes serving up delicious farm-to-table cuisine.
Overall, Montpelier is a must-see destination for those looking to experience the beauty and charm of Vermont’s capital city. Whether you’re interested in history, nature, art, or food, Montpelier has something to offer every visitor.
Quechee Gorge
Travel tips
- Distance from Vermont: 15 miles
- Time to get there: Approximately 30 minutes
- To get to Quechee Gorge from Vermont VT, you can take the I-89 S highway. The closest bus station is the White River Junction Bus Station, and the closest train station is the White River Junction Amtrak Station.
- Click for Google maps directions: Quechee Gorge
Exploring Quechee Gorge: Things to do
Quechee Gorge is a must-see destination for nature lovers and outdoor enthusiasts alike. Known as Vermont’s Little Grand Canyon, this stunning natural wonder offers breathtaking views and a variety of activities for visitors to enjoy.
One of the top things to do at Quechee Gorge is hiking along the trails that wind through the surrounding forests and along the rim of the gorge. The trails offer opportunities for both leisurely strolls and more challenging hikes, allowing visitors to explore the area at their own pace.
For those seeking adventure, Quechee Gorge also provides opportunities for rock climbing and rappelling, with designated areas for climbers of all skill levels. The rugged cliffs and rocky terrain make for an exciting and rewarding climbing experience.
Additionally, visitors can enjoy picnicking by the gorge, taking in the panoramic views while enjoying a meal in the great outdoors. The picnic areas provide a peaceful setting for relaxation and unwinding amidst the beauty of nature.
Overall, Quechee Gorge is a must-visit destination for anyone looking to experience the natural beauty of Vermont and engage in outdoor activities that showcase the best of the region’s landscapes. Whether you’re a hiker, climber, or simply a nature enthusiast, Quechee Gorge offers something for everyone to enjoy.
Green Mountain National Forest
Travel tips
- Distance from Vermont: 30 miles
- Time to get there: Approximately 45 minutes
- To get to Green Mountain National Forest from Vermont VT, take Route 7 south and then merge onto Route 4 east. Follow Route 4 until you reach the forest entrance.
- Click for Google maps directions: Green Mountain National Forest
Exploring Green Mountain National Forest: Things to do
Green Mountain National Forest is a must-see destination for nature lovers and outdoor enthusiasts alike. The forest offers a variety of activities that showcase the beauty of Vermont’s natural landscapes.
One of the top things to do in Green Mountain National Forest is hiking. With over 900 miles of hiking trails, visitors can explore the forest’s diverse terrain, from lush forests to mountain peaks. Popular hikes include the Long Trail, which runs the length of the forest, and the Appalachian Trail, which passes through the southern portion.
For those interested in wildlife viewing, Green Mountain National Forest is home to a wide range of species, including black bears, moose, and various bird species. Birdwatching is a popular activity, with opportunities to spot migratory birds and native species throughout the forest.
In addition to hiking and wildlife viewing, visitors can also enjoy camping, fishing, and picnicking in designated areas within the forest. The forest’s scenic beauty provides the perfect backdrop for a relaxing day outdoors.
Overall, Green Mountain National Forest offers a unique opportunity to experience the natural beauty of Vermont and immerse oneself in the tranquility of the great outdoors. Whether you’re seeking adventure or simply looking to unwind in nature, a visit to Green Mountain National Forest is sure to be a memorable experience.
