Here Are 12 Unique Day Trips In Vermont That Are An Absolute Must-Do
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Kristin Grimes
Author
Any time’s a great time to get out there and explore our beautiful state. Next time you’re pondering, “Where are the best day trips near me in Vermont,” you’ll already have the answer. The following 12 best day trips in Vermont will take you all over the state, giving you a glimpse at just some of what our beloved home has to offer. There’s just so much to see here!
Shelburne Museum, 6000 Shelburne Rd, Shelburne, VT 05482, USA
Not only is this one of the most beautiful places in Vermont, it literally has something for everyone. American paintings, circus figures, posters, decoys, impressionist paintings, the steamboat Ticonderoga, carriages, costumes, decorative arts, folk art, quilts, toys, historic houses, community buildings, and beautiful gardens just to name a few. Also, mention that you’re a Vermonter when paying admission for a discounted rate. Plan your visit on the official website of Shelburne Museum.
Take a look at this video by @ChronicleWCVB:
Take a look at this video by @ChronicleWCVB:
Montshire Museum of Science, 1 Montshire Rd, Norwich, VT 05055, USA
The Montshire Museum of Science, one of those must-visit places in Vermont, is a hands-on museum with more than 140 exhibits relating to the natural and physical sciences, ecology, and technology. The building is located on a 110-acre site, and the Museum's outdoor environment is a large part of the visitor experience. Stop by the official website of The Montshire Museum of Science for days, hours, and more information.
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Moose River Lake & Lodge Store, 370 Railroad St # 1, St Johnsbury, VT 05819, USA
This is a perfect place to shop for all of your Adirondack needs or to simply browse around on a rainy day. A unique store, it features a myriad of clothing, accessories, and beautiful items for the home, cabin or lodge. Imported wines, Amish hickory furniture, moose heads, antler and trophy mounts, and Vera Bradley, Isis, Ibex & Pendleton items are for sale, just to name a few. Learn more on the official website of Moose River Lake & Lodge Store.
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Goodrich Memorial Library, 202 Main St US 5, Newport, VT 05855, USA
If you like Victorian architecture and history, this is the place for you! This was the first library established in the town of Newport and was founded by Dr. John M. Currier in the spring of 1862. In 2003, Goodrich Memorial Library received a substantial grant and the building has been restored to its original beauty and elegance. Check it out in all of its glory. Here's the official website of Goodrich Memorial Library.
Fairbanks Museum & Planetarium, 1302 Main St, St Johnsbury, VT 05819, USA
This museum was mentioned in an earlier post about the 18 weirdest places in Vermont, specifically for its bug art. But the Fairbanks is much more than just dead moths and ladybugs. As northern New England’s museum of natural history, it is a place to marvel at the wonders of our world. Perfect for families and visitors of all ages, the Fairbanks Museum invites you to explore your universe. The Museum is also home to the Lyman Spitzer Jr. Planetarium, the only public planetarium in Vermont, where you can journey through the cosmos, guided by one of their astronomy experts. Here's the official website of Fairbanks Museum.
Sanderson's Wooden Bowls, 2902 VT-114, East Burke, VT 05832, USA
Watch these artisans and crafters create these unique beauties. Each bowl is individually turned and made from native Vermont Hardwoods. No two are alike, just like these day trips. Shop on the official website of Sanderson's Wooden Bowls.
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Pump House Indoor Waterpark, 830 Jay Peak Rd, Jay, VT 05859, USA
Embrace your inner child and get ready for a wild ride. This water park has something for all ages – and all levels of courage! For the most daring, try "La Chute," which stands an impressive 65 feet in the air. Riders enter the tube, cross their arms and legs, then wait for the countdown. Forty-five miles per hour, a full 360-degree rotation and roughly six seconds later, they arrive at the bottom - forever changed. Plan your visit on the official website of The Pump House at Jay Peak.
Take a look at this video by @Jaypeakresort:
Take a look at this video by @Jaypeakresort:
Lake Willoughby, Westmore, VT, USA
Pack a picnic and enjoy the excellent boating, fishing, kayaking, and canoeing. There are public restrooms at either end, too!
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Vermont Reindeer Farm, 3108 Chilafoux Rd, Orleans, VT 05860, USA
Vermont's only reindeer farm is open to the public on select days throughout the year, and they have many seasonal activities, including feeding and petting the many farm animals, a nature trail, a craft center, games, snowshoeing in the winter, and Christmas events. The gift shop includes "reindeer" items and homemade bath and body products. Of all the Vermont day trips, this one should go to the top of your list! Stop by the official website of Vermont Reindeer Farm.
The Chapel of the Holy Family, 1165 Darling Hill Rd, Lyndonville, VT 05851, USA
Set upon a knoll at the edge of a beautiful wooded area, this chapel offers those seeking peace and spiritual growth a sanctuary of grace and beauty. This is a place of beauty and peace, and well worth the trip. Stop by the official Facebook page of The Chapel of the Holy Family for more information.
Burrington Bridge Road, Burrington Bridge Rd, Vermont, USA
Who doesn’t love a covered bridge? Built in 1867, this 68-foot Queenpost bridge has an unusually open construction, making it easy to observe the truss structure. If you're a fan of historic places in Vermont, you'll love this charming, historic covered bridge. Coming here is one of the best things to do in VT.
Gardner Memorial Park, 155 Gardner Park Rd, Newport, VT 05855, USA
You don’t have to perfectly time your trip here! Gardner Memorial Park features activities for every season including ice skating, volleyball, a skate park, soccer, a playground, a baseball field, and more. Check out all there is to do on the official website of Gardner Memorial Park.
How would you answer the question – what are the best day trips near me in Vermont? Would you add any that aren’t on this list? Let us know in the comments! Have a bit more time for an adventure? Here are the eight best road trips in Vermont.
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More to Explore
Day Trips Near Me In Vermont
What are some of the best day trips in Vermont?
Some of the best day trips in Vermont include:
- Lake Willoughby in Westmore. Soak up the sun on the sandy beach, or hit one of the scenic hiking trails.
- In the mood for a day of shopping? Explore the quaint shops that dot Church Street in Burlington. Save some time for a delicious meal at one of Burlington’s outdoor cafes, too.
- Bring your pups along for an unforgettable day at The Dog Chapel & Dog Mountain in Saint Johnsbury.
Check out more of the best day trips in Vermont.
What are the top must-visit places in Vermont?
The top must-visit places in Vermont are:
- Smugglers’ Notch in Jeffersonville
- Path of Life Garden in Windsor
- Warren Falls in Warren, a shimmering swimming hole.
- Quechee Gorge
- Half Moon State Park
- Barre’s Rock of Ages Quarry
Check out these must-visit places in Vermont.
Where can I find the most popular historic places in Vermont?
Vermont is steeped in rich history, which means we have quite a few spots to visit if we love history. The most popular historic places in Vermont will take you all over the state and promises an eye-opening experience. Bring your camera along to snap photos of the historic Brown Bridge in Clarendon, which dates back to 1880. Explore some of the 150-acre farm of Robert Frost in Ripton, and browse the shelves at the unique and historic St. Johnsbury Athenaeum in Saint Johnsbury. You might also want to visit Mount Independence in Orwell and the Vermont State House in Montpelier.