Vermont's Verdant Vistas: Embracing the Charm of the Green Mountain State

“Vermont, where green mountains whisper of tranquility, maple trees paint the countryside in autumn hues, and every country road leads to a story of New England charm.”

Welcome to “50at60” – my personal quest to explore and cherish the diverse beauty of all 50 states as I celebrate my 60th year. In each of these posts, I am sharing some pre-trip research as a kind of a “virtual journey” through each and every state, exploring its stunning landscapes, charming small towns, scenic drives, and remarkable sites. From breathtaking natural wonders to hidden gems in quaint towns, these posts are a mosaic of what makes each state unique and captivating.

My passion for discovery drives this journey, especially towards the serene allure of small towns. As you read on, you’ll find a collection of photographs coupled with an artistic collage and “Must See” lists, both created with the help of AI. These posts are intended to simply serve as a start and jumping off point to further exploration. My goal in this series of “States within the USA” posts has been to capture the essence of each unique state, while creating a source to help all of us plan our journey into and through this amazing country we call the United States of America!

Join me in experiencing the splendor and spirit of every corner of our magnificent country in “50at60.” Now let’s get started with Vermont!

Vermont – “The Green Mountain State”

Embark on a journey through Vermont, a state that epitomizes the quintessential beauty and charm of New England. Known as the Green Mountain State, Vermont offers a tranquil escape into a world of lush forests, rolling hills, and picturesque small towns.

As we explore Vermont, we’ll experience the rustic allure of its countryside, the historic richness of its communities, and the artisanal spirit of its people. From the idyllic landscapes of the Northeast Kingdom to the lively streets of Burlington and the serene beauty of Lake Champlain, Vermont is a tapestry of natural splendor and cultural warmth.

Vermont was the first state admitted to the Union after the original 13 colonies.
It is the leading producer of maple syrup in the United States.
Vermont has the fewest people of any state capital in the U.S. (Montpelier).

Whether you’re savoring the flavors of its famed maple syrup and farm-fresh cuisine, enjoying the serenity of a scenic hike, or reveling in the vibrant colors of its autumn foliage, Vermont provides a peaceful yet enriching retreat.

Join me as we delve into the heart of Vermont, discovering the simple joys and enduring traditions of this beloved New England gem. These lists showcase a diverse range of experiences in Vermont, highlighting its rich history, stunning natural landscapes, and charming small towns.

Historic Landmarks and Monuments in Vermont

Shelburne Museum, Shelburne: An open-air museum showcasing American history, art, and design.
Ben & Jerry’s Factory, Waterbury: The original factory of the famous ice cream brand, offering tours and tastings.
Montpelier: The smallest state capital in the U.S., known for its charming downtown and historic State House.
Hildene, The Lincoln Family Home, Manchester: The summer home of Robert Todd Lincoln, son of Abraham Lincoln.
Covered Bridges: Vermont is famous for its picturesque covered bridges, with over 100 spread across the state.
Fort Ticonderoga, near Shoreham: Across the state line in New York, this historic site played a significant role in the American Revolution.
Calvin Coolidge Homestead, Plymouth Notch: The birthplace and boyhood home of the 30th U.S. President.
Lake Champlain Maritime Museum, Vergennes: Explores the nautical history of Lake Champlain.
Stowe: Known for its outdoor activities and the Trapp Family Lodge, established by the von Trapp family of “The Sound of Music” fame.
Marsh-Billings-Rockefeller National Historical Park, Woodstock: Focuses on conservation history and the stewardship of the land.

Scenic Drives and Road Trips in Vermont

Route 100: Runs through the center of the state, offering stunning views of the Green Mountains, charming towns, and ski resorts.
Green Mountain Byway: Connects Waterbury and Stowe, winding through beautiful mountain landscapes.
Scenic Route 7A: Passes through classic Vermont towns like Manchester and Bennington, with views of the Taconic and Green Mountains.
Lake Champlain Islands: A picturesque drive along a chain of islands in Lake Champlain, offering water views and tranquility.
The Molly Stark Trail (Route 9): Winds through the southern Green Mountains, connecting Brattleboro and Bennington.
Northeast Kingdom Byway: Showcases the rural charm and natural beauty of Vermont’s northeastern corner.
Middlebury Gap Road (Route 125): A mountain pass with beautiful views, especially popular during the fall foliage season.
Smugglers’ Notch (Route 108): A stunning mountain pass between Stowe and Jeffersonville, known for its tight turns and dramatic landscapes.
Mad River Valley: A scenic area offering a blend of farmland, forests, and small New England towns.
Route 5A along Lake Willoughby: Offers spectacular views of the lake and the surrounding cliffs.

Best Small Towns in Vermont

Woodstock: Often regarded as the quintessential Vermont town, known for its covered bridges, historic homes, and charming downtown.
Stowe: A famous ski resort town with a vibrant arts scene and outdoor activities year-round.
Middlebury: Home to Middlebury College, with a picturesque downtown and a strong sense of community.
Shelburne: Known for the Shelburne Museum and its proximity to Burlington and Lake Champlain.
Manchester: Offers a mix of outdoor activities, history, and shopping (outlets and local crafts).
Montpelier: The state capital, with a charming downtown and a strong local food scene.
Brattleboro: A vibrant arts community and a gateway to the Green Mountains.
Grafton: One of New England’s prettiest villages, maintained in part by the Windham Foundation.
Waitsfield: Located in the Mad River Valley, known for its scenic beauty and artisan community.
Dorset: Offers historical charm, with a quaint village green and nearby marble quarries.

Thank you for joining me on this exploration of Vermont! Researching this state and it’s wonders has been a delightful discovery for me, from its scenic drives to the charming small towns that dot its landscape. The insights in this post were enhanced with the help of AI, a testament to the blend of technology and human curiosity. The artistic collage at the beginning of the post, crafted using Dall-E, aims to capture the essence of Vermont’s beauty and character in a unique way. It was fun to create!

I hope these images and information spark your curiosity as it did mine. I am working on a post of every state here, so make sure and check out a few more!

As we continue this journey together, I invite you to stay tuned for more adventures, more discoveries, and more stories that celebrate the diversity and splendor of our country. Happy travels!