Best summer vacation spots in vermont
The best summer vacation spots for families and couples in Vermont. All of these locations have something to offer everyone (including, adventurous sort of folks and the more laid back types). We have included a couple famous landmarks that are not really tourist spots in Vermont, but are worth a great day trip or even weekend trip if you live in the state.
Vermont is a heaven for a variety of travelers who love exploring new cultures and learning about different people and their customs and the way of life, who want to experience exciting adventures or those who just need to relax by themselves. The state abounds with many interesting summer vacation spots which makes it an ideal destination both for group tours and family vacations.
Summer vacation is a time to relax and visit new, exciting places. If you’re looking for something to do this summer, consider visiting Vermont. Vermont is full of great places to explore and fun things to do. There are many sites that offer great coupons and package deals for your trip so you save money when you go. Here are just a few destinations in Vermont where you can find some wonderful summer vacation spots.
Best Summer Vacation Spots in Vermont
Whether you’re looking for a quiet vacation spot to relax and read, or a bustling city with lots of things to do, Vermont has something for you. Here are some of the best summer vacation spots in Vermont:
Stowe
Stowe is located in Northern Vermont, near Burlington. It’s known for its hiking trails and ski resorts. There are also art museums and historical sites in Stowe.
Waitsfield
Waitsfield is another small town located near Burlington, but it’s farther north than Stowe. It’s known for its canoeing on Lake Champlain and its apple orchards. There are also several historic buildings in Waitsfield that date back as far as 1812!
Vermonters know that the best way to beat the heat is to get out of the city and into the wilderness. There are countless great summer vacation spots in Vermont, but we’ve narrowed down our list to five of our favorites.
- Smugglers’ Notch Resort – Stowe, VT
Smugglers’ Notch Resort has something for everyone—and it’s only an hour away from Burlington! With water parks, tubing, hiking trails, golfing and skiing, it’s no wonder Smuggs has been voted “Best Summer Resort” by Travel and Leisure Magazine for three years running. And even though it’s a resort, you can still enjoy all of the amenities without having to join their club. You’ll also be surrounded by nature at every turn—the resort is surrounded by over 1,000 acres of forest!
- Quechee Gorge State Park – Quechee, VT
Quechee Gorge State Park offers stunning views of one of Vermont’s most beautiful rivers: the Ottauquechee River. This river runs through a deep gorge with sheer rock walls on either side—making it one of the most scenic spots in Vermont for canoeing or kayaking during summertime! But if you don’t have your
Brattleboro
Located in southeastern Vermont is Brattleboro! This town is easily one of the most-visited in the state, especially during the summer in Vermont. It’s filled with lots of fun activities and is also right on New Hampshire’s border, so you can visit two states in one trip.
What to Do in Brattleboro
If you love the outdoors, be sure to visit Madame Sherri’s Forest (in nearby NH). There are fun ruins throughout the forest, and it’s easily walkable with kids and even dogs. Other great places to visit in Brattleboro include Fort Dummer State Park, Wantastiquet Mountain Natural Area, and the Brattleboro Museum & Art Center. Be sure to also stop at some of the local Brattleboro restaurants.
Bennington
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Bennington is genuinely one of the most underrated places to visit during summer in Vermont. This town is right in the corner of southwestern Vermont, on the border of both New York and Massachusetts. This is an excellent gateway to the northeast, and the town has a strong connection to the Civil War, as one of the victories happened here. The town celebrates Bennington Battle Day’s victory each year with a huge parade and festivities.
What to Do in Bennington
The Bennington Museum is the top museum to visit in the town that’s filled with lots of history. There is also an old cemetery here that guests can visit. For a great view, be sure to go to the top of the Bennington Battle Monument. The food here is also incredible, so head to Cilantro (for tasty burritos) or Benner’s for epic pizzas and calzones.
Read more: 15+ Fun Things to Do in Bennington, VT
Montpelier
As the capital of Vermont, Montpelier can’t be missed. While it doesn’t have a huge population, there is still quite a bit of fun activities to do here, no matter the time of year. Fun fact: this is one of the least populated capitals of a state in all of the country.
What to Do in Montpelier
Easily the top attraction in Montpelier is the Vermont State House. It’s wonderful and is an architectural marvel. Guests can go on a free tour of the inside. To learn about Vermont’s history, stop by the Vermont Historical Society Museum. Hubbard Park is the perfect outdoor place to relax and explore near the statehouse.
Read More: 14 Fun Things to Do in Montpelier VT
Peru
You might be thinking… there’s a Peru in Vermont? Yes, there is! This town is the gateway to one of the most popular ski resorts in the state, Bromley Mountain. In the summer, the town is still just as much of a destination because of its outdoor attractions.
What to Do in Peru
Historically, Peru was known as Bromley. Even though Bromley Mountain is most well known in the winter, it turns into an entertaining adventure park in the summer. There are rides, a water park, and even an alpine coaster that is fun for all ages.
Middlebury
Located in the middle of the state is none other than Middlebury, the perfect destination for summer in Vermont. It’s a college town during most of the year because it’s where Middlebury College is located, but it also has some fun museums, hikes, and even a vineyard.
What to Do in Middlebury
You’ll absolutely want to add Lake Dunmore to your travel itinerary if you’re visiting Middlebury. This huge lake is the perfect spot for camping, walking trails, and even swimming. The Lincoln Peak Vineyard is a fun spot for a more luxurious experience, and the Henry Sheldon Museum is perfect for learning about the state’s history.
READ NEXT 9 Best Lakes in Vermont You Must Visit
Manchester
Located a short distance from Bennington is the beautiful town of Manchester! It’s commonly visited for being home to Hildene, which is where one of Abraham Lincoln’s children lived. It is also home to luxury outlets, making it the perfect place for shopping.
What to Do in Manchester
There are plenty of things to do in Manchester year round. In addition to shopping at the outlets and taking a visit to Hildene, hiking at Equinox Mountain is an absolute must. One of the easier trails to do here is the Lye Brook Falls Trail, which leads to a gorgeous waterfall. Fishing fans should be sure to stop by the American Museum of Fly Fishing.
Newport
Located in northern Vermont, almost on the border of Canada, is Newport! This is truly one of the top destinations if you’re visiting during the summer in Vermont. There are tons of lake houses here, great local restaurants, and even a huge lake.
What to Do in Newport
A lot of the best things to do in Newport are outdoors. They include going on bike rides on local tours, hiking, and even visiting places like Derby Pond for a great outdoor swim. Honestly, even though there isn’t tons to do here if you want a tranquil vacation spot, Newport is perfect.
Wilmington
Between Bennington and Brattleboro is the quaint town of Wilmington. This town is incredibly historic and has one of the most beautiful downtown areas! You won’t find many name-brand shops here; in fact, almost everything is local.
What to Do in Wilmington
Arguably the best thing to do in Wilmington is to attend the flea market. Local vendors sell tons of fun items, and there are always vending machines so you can grab a bite to eat too. Another popular attraction here is Hogback Mountain, which can be dangerous in the winter when it gets icey but is a beautiful viewpoint in the summer. If you get hungry, be sure to stop by Dot’s, a great local restaurant.
READ NEXT The Perfect Vermont Road Trip: One Week Itinerary
Burlington
If you visit during the summer in Vermont without stopping in Burlington, you’re truly missing out. This is honestly one of the most picturesque places to visit in the whole state and it’s located right on Lake Champlain.
What to Do in Burlington
For shopping, be sure to explore Church Street Marketplace. This makes up most of the downtown area, and it’s great because it’s pedestrian-only. Visit the Leahy Center for Lake Champlain to learn more about the beautiful lake, stop at Waterfront Park for epic views, and for a quirky attraction, stop by the World’s Tallest Filing Cabinet.
Read More: The 25 Best Things to Do in Burlington VT
Woodstock
Another smaller town in Vermont is Woodstock. Like Middlebury, it’s located pretty centrally in the state. While the most popular time of year to visit Woodstock is in the fall for the foliage, you can experience the local culture of this small town without the crowds by visiting during the summer.
What to do in Woodstock
One of the most popular places to visit in Woodstock is Billings Farm & Museum. The Marsh Billings Rockefeller National Historical Park is also an interesting place to explore if you want an outdoor attraction. Last but not least, stop by Sugarbush Farm to try local Vermont cheese and maple syrup!