14 Quirky Facts About Vermont That Sound Made Up, But Are 100% Accurate

Aside from the lush Green Mountains, scenic hiking trails, ski resorts, and charming towns, there are plenty of things about Vermont that might surprise you. If you're curious to know more about what makes the Green Mountain State unique, here are 14 quirky Vermont facts that will surprise even locals. Prepare to be amazed, surprised, and impressed by these cool facts about VT!

1. Did You Know Vermont Has the Smallest U.S. Capital?

Montpelier has a population of about 8000, which makes it the tiniest capital in the United States. Within the capital's attractive downtown, you'll find Vermont's golden-domed State House, cafes, and local shops.

2. Surprising Fact: Vermont’s Biggest City Is Under 50,000 People

Although Burlington is the biggest city in the Green Mountain State, it only has a population of about 45,000. That's where the University of Vermont is located - along the shores of Lake Champlain giving the city a waterfront charm and college-town energy.

3. Vermont Is the Only U.S. State Without a Skyscraper

While you won't find massive buildings in the Green Mountain state, the Decker Towers in Burlington stand at 124 feet. While Decker Towers is the state's tallest building, you cannot compare it to other neighboring cities like Boston or New York. It feels downright modest – giving Vermont that cozy, small-town vibe.

4. Vermont Produces More Maple Syrup Than Any Other State

Vermont makes about 2.5 million gallons of maple syrup every year. Are you planning to visit during the spring season? That is the perfect time when visitors get a chance to sample fresh maple straight from the source.

5. Vermont Is Home to the Iconic Vermont Teddy Bear

Thanks to the Vermont Teddy Bear Company, approximately 500,000 teddy bears are made in Vermont each year. With its premises in Shelburne, families can easily tour the Teddy Bear Factory. As a visitor, you'll get to experience how bears are made firsthand. You can also design your own custom creations – Isn’t that interesting?

6. Vermont’s Scenic Highways Come Without Billboards

Vermont is one of four states that have banned billboards. This ban has been in effect since 1968 to help preserve the state's natural beauty along its scenic highways. Wondering whether there are other states with similar bans? Yes, Maine, Alaska, and Hawaii have the same restrictions.

7. Vermont Is Home to Over 100 Charming Covered Bridges

Along with the large number of covered bridges, Vermont has the most per square mile compared to the rest of the country. The interesting fact is that the majority of these bridges were built in the 1800s, and are in attractive valleys. That makes them a favorite spots for photographers and other road adventurers.

8. Vermonters Love the Country – and It Shows

You'll find more people living in rural areas compared to urban cities and towns. The locals love agriculture, and that has been their identity for a long time. They have thriving farmers’ markets, family-owned dairy farms, and maple sugaring operations across the state.

9. Montpelier Loves Local – Not Chains

You won't find a Starbucks, McDonald's, or Walmart in Vermont's capital city. Instead, the city emphasizes supporting local cafes, restaurants, and bookstores, which helps maintain Montpelier’s independent, small-town attraction.

10. Vermont Held Out the Longest Before Getting a Walmart

It was not until 1996 that Vermont opened its first Walmart. For years, residents resisted large retail chains, preferring to shop at local markets and family-owned general stores instead. That helped preserve the small-town character and support for local businesses.

11. Calvin Coolidge’s Birthday Brings History Alive in Vermont

Not only was President Coolidge born in Vermont, but he was also born on July 4th. His birthplace, Plymouth Notch, has been preserved as a historic site – allowing visitors to walk down memory lane into 19th-century Vermont life.

12. Vermont: The State That Was Once an Independent Nation

This is a photo of the Republic of the Green Mountains flag. Before becoming part of the United States, Vermont was its own country. Between 1777 and 1791, Vermont operated an independent postal system, had its own constitution, and its own currency.

13. Ice Cream-Loving Hogs? Only in Vermont!

Ben and Jerry's donates their unused ice cream to local farms that use it to feed their hogs. Does it sound odd? Well, it’s considered a sustainable way of reducing food wastage – the pigs don’t mind the sweet treat either.

14. Cheesy Delight: Vermont Hosts the Giant Grilled Cheese

As per the Guinness Book of World Records, Cabot Creamery made the largest grilled cheese back in 2000. This gooey sandwich weighed over 300 pounds! Cabot Creamery is a farmer-owned cooperative that produces award-winning cheddar, so it’s only fitting that they celebrated with a record-breaking sandwich.

So, what do you think? Did these 14 fun facts about Vermont surprise you? You can also share with us other fan facts about the Green Mountain State by filling out this nomination form.

If you want to learn some more, then take a look at these fun and quirky facts about Vermont, too. Planning your own Green Mountain adventure? Be sure to check out the Only In Your State itinerary planner for a perfect Vermont trip.