Central Vermont Travel Guide

Plan your trip to Central Vermont with this comprehensive guide featuring must-see attractions, best places to stay, hiking/biking routes, food and drink scene, local culture, and more.


Introduction to Central Vermont

Central Vermont is a picturesque region located in the heart of the Green Mountains in Vermont, New England. It is a destination that balances outdoor recreation, cultural attractions, and local charm. Central Vermont is an ideal place to visit if you are looking for an escape from the hustle and bustle of city life.

List of Places to Visit in Central Vermont

Central Vermont offers a diverse range of attractions, including the following:

Culturally Important Attractions: Museums and Historical Places

  • Vermont State House: The Vermont State House is located in Montpelier, the capital city of Vermont. This historic building dates back to the 1850s and features stunning architecture and beautiful grounds.

  • Shelburne Museum: The Shelburne Museum is located in Shelburne and is a must-visit for art lovers. The museum features over 150,000 works of art from around the world, including American folk art, Impressionist paintings, and much more.

Natural Attractions of Central Vermont: Outdoor Adventures and Scenic Views

  • Killington Ski Resort: Killington Ski Resort is one of the best ski resorts in the Northeast United States, offering a variety of trails and terrain for skiers of all abilities.

  • Quechee Gorge: Quechee Gorge is a beautiful natural attraction located in Quechee and offers stunning views of the Ottauquechee River and surrounding forests.

Hiking/Biking Routes of Central Vermont

Central Vermont is a paradise for hikers and bikers, offering miles of scenic trails and routes. Some of the best hiking and biking trails in Central Vermont include:

  • Long Trail: The Long Trail is Vermont’s oldest long-distance hiking trail and stretches 273 miles from Massachusetts to Canada.

  • Island Line Trail: The Island Line Trail is a 14-mile trail that runs along the eastern shore of Lake Champlain, offering stunning views of the lake and Adirondack mountains.

Best Things to Do in Central Vermont: Activities and Tours

Central Vermont offers a wide range of activities and tours, including:

  • Maple Syrup Tasting: Vermont is famous for its maple syrup, and there are several maple farms in Central Vermont where visitors can taste and learn about the production process.

  • Green Mountain National Forest Tour: The Green Mountain National Forest is a must-see destination for outdoor enthusiasts. Visitors can explore the park’s hiking trails, scenic drives, and beautiful waterfalls.

Week-Long Itinerary for Central Vermont

A week-long itinerary for Central Vermont could include the following destinations and activities:

Day Destination Activity
1 Montpelier Vermont State House Tour
2 Killington Skiing at Killington Ski Resort
3 Quechee Quechee Gorge Hike
4 Shelburne Shelburne Museum Visit
5 Island Line Trail Biking on Island Line Trail
6 Green Mountain National Forest Hiking and Scenic Drive
7 Stowe Stowe Mountain Resort Zip Lining

Food and Drink Scene of Central Vermont

Central Vermont is a foodie’s paradise, offering a diverse range of cuisine and local beverages.

Must-Try Dishes

  • Vermont Maple Syrup: Vermont Maple Syrup is famous around the world for its flavor and quality. Visitors can sample different varieties of maple syrup and even take some home as a souvenir.

  • Farm-to-Table Cuisine: Many restaurants in Central Vermont source their ingredients locally, offering fresh and flavorful farm-to-table dishes.

Local Beverages

  • Vermont Craft Beer: Vermont is known for its craft beer scene, with several breweries located throughout Central Vermont.

  • Cider and Spirits: Central Vermont is also home to several cideries and distilleries, offering visitors the chance to sample local cider and spirits.

Where to Stay in Central Vermont: Hotels, Hostels, and Guesthouses

Central Vermont offers a variety of accommodation options, including:

  • The Woodstock Inn and Resort: The Woodstock Inn and Resort is a luxurious hotel located in Woodstock that features stunning architecture and top-notch service.

  • Burlington Hostel: Burlington Hostel is a budget-friendly option for visitors who are looking to save some money on accommodation.

What to Buy in Central Vermont: Souvenirs and Local Products to Bring Home

Some popular souvenirs and local products to bring home from Central Vermont include:

  • Maple Syrup: Vermont Maple Syrup makes a great gift or souvenir.

  • Handmade Crafts: Central Vermont is home to many talented artists and craftsmen, offering unique and beautiful handmade gifts.

Local Culture and Customs of Central Vermont

Central Vermont has a rich cultural heritage, including:

  • Vermont Maple Syrup Festival: The Vermont Maple Syrup Festival is an annual event that celebrates the state’s maple syrup industry.

  • Vermont Quilt Festival: The Vermont Quilt Festival is a popular event that showcases the work of local quilters and artists.

Best Time to Visit Central Vermont

The best time to visit Central Vermont is from May to October when the weather is mild and pleasant, and the fall foliage is at its peak.

Do’s and Don’ts of Central Vermont

Do:

  • Try Maple Syrup: Vermont Maple Syrup is a must-try local specialty.

  • Take a Hike: Central Vermont offers miles of scenic hiking trails, so make sure to pack your hiking boots.

Don’t:

  • Leave Trash Behind: Central Vermont is a beautiful destination, so please respect the environment by not leaving trash behind.

  • Be Disrespectful to Local Customs: Central Vermonters take pride in their local customs, so be respectful and try to learn about them during your visit.

Safety and Health

Safety in Central Vermont

Central Vermont is a safe destination for visitors, but it is always important to take general safety precautions like locking your car and not leaving valuables in plain sight.

Health in Central Vermont

Central Vermont has several hospitals and medical facilities in case of emergency. It is always important to have proper travel insurance when traveling.

Getting to Central Vermont: Transportation Options and Logistics

Airports Near Central Vermont

The nearest airport to Central Vermont is Burlington International Airport (BTV), located about 45 minutes away by car.

Bus Stations Near Central Vermont

The Greyhound Bus Station is located in Montpelier, offering regular bus services to and from major cities in the Northeast United States.

Other Options

Visitors can also rent a car or bike to explore Central Vermont independently.

How to Get Around in Central Vermont

Visitors can get around in Central Vermont by car, bike, or local buses. Car rentals are available at the airport and in major cities throughout the region.

Where to Go Next from Central Vermont: Nearby Destinations and Excursions

Some nearby destinations and excursions from Central Vermont include:

  • Lake Champlain: Lake Champlain is a large lake located on the border of Vermont and New York State, offering scenic views, boating, and fishing.

  • White Mountains: The White Mountains are located in New Hampshire and offer many hiking trails, scenic drives, and natural attractions.

Conclusion

Central Vermont is a must-see destination for nature lovers, foodies, and culture enthusiasts. With its diverse range of attractions, activities, and local charm, Central Vermont offers something for every type of traveler. Plan your trip today and experience the beauty of Central Vermont for yourself.



    Bradford
    Jeffersonville
    Northfield
    Waitsfield