The 14 Most Underrated Places In Vermont That You Must Check Out

Vermont has a lot of landmarks – some historical, some full of natural beauty, and some that are just plain perplexing (I’m looking at you, Witch Windows). But there are many places between the expansive Shelburne Museum and the small Crazy Russian Girls Neighborhood Bakery that may be underrated. Let's take a look at a few gems that should be experienced.

1. The Wilson Castle

Check out the Wilson Castle, which is a stunning nineteenth-century estate in Proctor. Built in 1867, the castle is now operated as a house museum.

2. The Dock Of The Bay In Newport

No better place to waste some time!

3. The Floating Bridge.

The floating bridge in Brookfield is a truly unique experience. If you know where to look, you may even spot a couple of hippos nearby (hint, hint).

4. General John Strong Mansion

The John Strong Mansion is loaded with history and is a great way to add a little variety to your sightseeing. Five generations of the Strong family occupied this well preserved mansion, and the museum has been operated by the Vermont Daughters of the American Revolution continuously since 1934.

5. Knight’s Spider Web Farm.

If you’re looking for something offbeat and undeniably fun, go see this farm where the artists are... Spiders? Listen to Will Knight as he spins tales to your delight!

6. Rock Of Ages Granite Quarry In Barre.

Take the quarry tour and then see where the granite goes....

7. The Hope Cemetery In Barre

After checking out the quarry you MUST see the intricately carved monuments from the granite at the nearby Hope Cemetery. Works of art... each and every one.

8. Clarendon Gorge

Quechee Gorge, otherwise known as Vermont's little Grand Canyon, is a spectacular sight, but the swinging bridge across Clarendon Gorge is a test of your nerves.

9. The Lake Champlain Ferry

These ferry boats run about every 20 minutes and take you across the beautiful Lake Champlain and back. With the spectacular views and the wind in your face, you can enjoy this ride any time you like - and for a lot less than the cruises!

10. The Hartness House

The Hartness House Inn located in Springfield, Vermont is not your ordinary inn. This place is filled with history, as well as an underground tunnel system that is said to be haunted. You can still go through the tunnel… if you dare.

11. The Colchester Causeway

The Colchester Causeway is a three-mile stretch of one of the most beautiful trails in Vermont. Surrounded by water on either side, you get the sensation of gliding over the water in a magical place, whether you bike, walk, cross country ski, or snowshoe.

12. The Maritime Museum

Get your nautical juices flowing at the Lake Champlain Maritime Museum at 43 King Street in Burlington.

13. The Path Of Life Garden

This special place in Windsor is a perfect destination to explore the stages of life brought together in art and nature.

14. Vermont Institute Of Natural Science (VINS).

See and learn about birds and raptors in a terrific environment. But this isn’t a zoo – this is a non-profit learning center and rehab facility for injured or orphaned birds.

What are some other underrated places in VT that you love?