Introduction
Welcome to Vermont, a state renowned for its picturesque landscapes, charming villages, and outdoor adventures. In this 7-day itinerary, we’ll explore the best of Vermont’s natural beauty, cultural heritage, and culinary delights. Get ready for a memorable journey through the Green Mountain State.
Day 1: Arrival in Burlington
Morning: Arrival in Burlington
- Arrival: Land at Burlington International Airport and check into your accommodation.
- Breakfast in Burlington: Start your day with a delicious breakfast at a local café in downtown Burlington.
Afternoon: Waterfront Exploration
- Lake Champlain: Explore the scenic Lake Champlain waterfront, visiting attractions like the ECHO Leahy Center for Lake Champlain.
- Church Street Marketplace: Wander through the vibrant Church Street Marketplace, known for its shops, restaurants, and street performers.
Evening: Dinner in Burlington
- Dinner: Enjoy dinner at a farm-to-table restaurant in Burlington, sampling Vermont’s fresh and seasonal cuisine.
Day 2: Stowe and Trapp Family Lodge
Morning: Drive to Stowe
- Scenic Drive: Take a scenic drive to Stowe, admiring the mountain views along the way.
- Breakfast in Stowe: Stop for breakfast at a local café or bakery in Stowe village.
Afternoon: Trapp Family Lodge and Outdoor Activities
- Trapp Family Lodge: Visit the Trapp Family Lodge, known for its Austrian-inspired charm and outdoor recreational activities.
- Hiking or Biking: Explore the lodge’s hiking trails or rent bikes for a scenic ride through the countryside.
Evening: Dinner at Trapp Brewery
- Trapp Brewery: Enjoy dinner at Trapp Brewery & Bierhall, savoring craft beers and hearty Bavarian dishes.
Day 3: Montpelier and Capital Region
Morning: Montpelier Exploration
- State Capital: Visit Montpelier, the charming state capital of Vermont, and tour the Vermont State House.
- Local Cafés: Discover cozy cafés in Montpelier for a mid-morning coffee break.
Afternoon: Shelburne Farms and Museum
- Shelburne Farms: Drive to Shelburne Farms, a historic estate with stunning gardens, farm animals, and Lake Champlain views.
- Shelburne Museum: Explore the Shelburne Museum’s art, history, and Americana collections.
Evening: Dinner in Montpelier
- Dinner: Dine at a farm-to-table restaurant or historic inn in Montpelier, enjoying Vermont’s culinary delights.
Day 4: Ben & Jerry’s Factory and Waterbury
Morning: Ben & Jerry’s Factory Tour
- Ben & Jerry’s: Take a guided tour of the Ben & Jerry’s Ice Cream Factory in Waterbury, learning about their ice cream-making process and flavors.
- Ice Cream Tasting: Indulge in a delicious ice cream tasting session, sampling unique flavors.
Afternoon: Waterbury Attractions
- Cold Hollow Cider Mill: Visit Cold Hollow Cider Mill for fresh cider and Vermont maple products.
- Green Mountain Coffee: Tour the Green Mountain Coffee Roasters Café & Visitor Center for a coffee experience.
Evening: Waterbury Dinner
- Dinner: Enjoy dinner at a cozy restaurant in Waterbury, known for its local ingredients and farm-to-table cuisine.
Day 5: Woodstock and Quechee Gorge
Morning: Woodstock Village
- Woodstock: Explore the charming village of Woodstock, known for its historic architecture, shops, and galleries.
- Billings Farm & Museum: Visit Billings Farm & Museum to learn about Vermont’s rural heritage and farm life.
Afternoon: Quechee Gorge and Artisan Shops
- Quechee Gorge: Drive to Quechee Gorge, Vermont’s “Little Grand Canyon,” for hiking trails and scenic views.
- Artisan Shops: Browse artisan shops and boutiques in Quechee, discovering local crafts and products.
Evening: Dinner in Woodstock
- Dinner: Dine at a cozy restaurant or tavern in Woodstock, enjoying a relaxed evening in this picturesque town.
Day 6: Manchester and Southern Vermont
Morning: Drive to Manchester
- Southern Vermont: Journey to Manchester, a charming town in Southern Vermont known for its outdoor recreation and historic sites.
- Breakfast in Manchester: Start your day with a hearty breakfast at a local café or diner.
Afternoon: Hildene and Shopping
- Hildene Estate: Visit the Hildene Estate, the former home of Robert Todd Lincoln, with its gardens, trails, and historic exhibits.
- Shopping: Explore Manchester’s outlets and boutiques for shopping, including renowned brands and Vermont-made products.
Evening: Dinner in Manchester
- Dinner: Enjoy dinner at a fine dining restaurant or classic New England inn in Manchester.
Day 7: Burlington and Departure
Morning: Return to Burlington
- Scenic Drive: Take a scenic drive back to Burlington, soaking in the Vermont countryside one last time.
- Last-Minute Explorations: Visit any remaining attractions or shops in Burlington before departure.
Afternoon: Departure
- Airport Transfer: Head to Burlington International Airport for your departure, carrying cherished memories of your Vermont vistas adventure.
Conclusion
This 7-day itinerary showcases the best of Vermont’s natural beauty, cultural heritage, and culinary delights. From the vibrant city of Burlington to the charming villages of Stowe and Woodstock, each day offers unique experiences and breathtaking vistas. Whether exploring outdoor wonders, indulging in farm-fresh cuisine, or immersing yourself in Vermont’s rich history, the Green Mountain State promises a memorable and enriching journey for travelers of all interests.