Decision dilemma! You have friends coming from out of town and you suddenly draw a blank as to where you should take them. There is so much to see and do in Vermont that it can actually be hard choosing just one thing. So, why not combine a few things into one town to get the most bang for your buck? Let's take a look at a few towns that have perfect day trips near me in Vermont.
1. Waterbury
Waterbury may be popular with the tourists for places like the Cabot Cheese Annex (free samples), Lake Champlain Chocolates, Cold Hollow Cider Mill and of course, the Ben & Jerry's Factory Tour, but much to the foodies delight the restaurants are amazing. Be sure to stop into the Prohibition Pig or Hen of the Wood for a fantastic meal!
2. Shelburne
You'll need more than a day to see all there is to see in Shelburne! Shelburne Farms and the Shelburne Museum are not to be missed, but don't forget a stop into the Vermont Teddy Bear Factory. There is also a great general store and even a vineyard here, making Shelburne one of the most charming towns in Vermont.
3. Putney
Whether you're looking for some wining and dining or some totally unique shopping, the lovely town of Putney has a little bit of everything.
4. Manchester
The designer outlet shopping may be Manchester's most well known draw, but this little town is filled with history, hiking, great restaurants and so much more. See what else you'll find in Manchester here.
5. Brandon
This artsy town just oozes cool. You'll find art everywhere and loads of live music from festivals to free concerts on the green and so much more. If you're into the arts, take a closer look at the town of Brandon and start planning your day trip today.
6. Plymouth
Take a step back in time and explore the historic village in Plymouth. It's the birthplace of President Calvin Coolidge, and you'll love exploring this perfectly preserved town. Don't miss a stop at Plymouth Cheese!
7. Weston
How about a relaxing day just poking around? You'll find a mill museum, galleries, a playhouse and, of course, the famous Vermont Country Store.
8. Grafton
This charming town is so perfectly New England! Be sure to bring a camera as great photo ops are everywhere.
9. Stowe
Stowe is an outdoor enthusiasts dream come true. Take the toll road to the top of Vermont's highest peak or hike one of the many trails and take in the views. Waterfalls, dining, shopping and even a haunted bridge. Stowe is a great place for families!
10. St. Johnsbury
Spend half the day here exploring the Fairbanks Museum and Planetarium, and the other half hiking on a rail trail or letting your pup run around Dog Mountain. Be sure to pay a special visit to the Dog Chapel.
11. Bennington
History buffs will love the Battle of Bennington monument as well as the Bennington Museum and the Park-McCullough House. You'll also get your fill of historic architecture with its old wooden churches and covered bridge. Feeling artsy? Check out the The Bennington Center for the Arts and perhaps there is a play taking place at the
Oldcastle Theatre Company. Be sure to take a drive by the Walloomsac Inn.
12. Norwich
This is a great place to go with kids! Learn to bake something at King Arthur Flour and then explore the hands-on Montshire Museum of Science. You'll also find a few farm stands in Norwich as well as a great farmers market.
13. Woodstock
What's not to love about the charming town of Woodstock? Stop by the Town Crier in the center of town to see all the local current happenings before you hit the many specialty shops in town. Head over to the Billings Farm or the Sugarbush Farm to see the animals, taste their VT cheeses and other specialty products and much more. You'll even find the best grilled cheese in Vermont here.
Which towns in Vermont do you think are perfect for day excursions? Have you done any scenic day trips in Vermont lately? Let us know in the comments section below. We would love to hear your experiences and stories.
If you'd rather a single destination for the day, be sure to check out the 11 best day trips you can take in Vermont.
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