The 10 Very Best Day Trips You Can Possibly Take in Vermont
Discover some of the best day trips in Vermont, featuring museums, lakes, farms, and scenic parks.
There are so many fun and interesting places in Vermont that it's sometimes hard to just pick one and run with it. So, to make things easier as you plan out your afternoon, day, or weekend, we've gathered some awesome places that you'll love. These are some of the best day trips in Vermont that will surely create memories to last a lifetime.
1. Montshire Museum of Science - Norwich
You'll love all the indoor and outdoor exhibits at this hands-on museum, filled with adventure. Be sure to bring a change of clothes in case you have too much fun in the water exhibits! Please read more about the Montshire Museum of Science in this article to learn more about the museum, opening hours, and other important information.
2. Lake Willoughby - Westmore
Whether you spend the day hiking, beaching, or boating, a day spent at Lake Willoughby is a memory that will last a lifetime. This glacial lake is the deepest lake in Vermont, up to 328 feet deep.
3. Quechee Gorge - Hartford
Considered "The Grand Canyon of Vermont," Quechee Gorge, located in Quechee State Park, is 165 feet deep and is best known for the bridge that spans across it. You can hike to the bottom of Quechee Gorge for the ultimate Vermont adventure — it's a lot easier than it looks!
4. Billings Farm & Museum - Woodstock
This scenic spot in Woodstock is a working farm that produces milk and some of the finest cheddar cheese around. The Billings Farm and Museum also has a gift shop, wagon and sleigh rides, an ice cream shop, and more.
5. Shelburne Museum - Shelburne
It wouldn't be hard to spend an entire day here! You'll find over 150,000 works in a remarkable setting of 39 buildings in a pristine and picturesque setting. Read more about the Shelburne Museum.
6. Church Street Marketplace - Burlington
With its many outdoor cafes, unique shops, and outdoor street performers, Church Street is a wonderful destination for everyone. Not only is this pedestrian mall a wonderful day-trip destination, but it also hosts events year-round.
7. Merck Forest & Farmland Center - Rupert
There are plenty of animals at this working farm, and the hiking trails through the forest are incredible. A perfect family-friendly destination, the Merck Forest & Farmland Center is one of those can't-miss getaway spots in Vermont that everyone will love.
8. President Calvin Coolidge State Historic Site - Plymouth
The well-preserved town is chock-full of history, and you can even sample some cheese at the on-site Plymouth Artisan Cheese store. Head over to the official President Calvin Coolidge State Historic Site website for opening hours, events, and other information.
9. The Dog Chapel & Dog Mountain - Saint Johnsbury
Let your favorite four-legged friends call the shots for the day and head to Dog Mountain for some furry adventures. Be sure to visit the amazing Dog Chapel at this 150-acre dog-friendly art park, too.
10. Smugglers Notch State Park - Stowe
From scenic views, hiking trails, and biking to waterfalls and camping, you'll never run out of things to do at this popular State Park — it's Vermont travel at its finest. Smugglers Notch State Park offers a number of day trips in Vermont worth checking out year-round.
Where do you love to go traveling in Vermont? For more places that are perfect day-trip destinations and activities, discover the 12 most unique day trips in Vermont.
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