Affectionately known as the Green Mountain State, Vermont is known for its lush greenery and stunning nature. However, there are many other things that make Vermont worth exploring. Whether you’re looking for a place to enjoy the outdoors or explore some of Vermont’s rich history, the state has plenty to offer.
What Is Vermont Known For
Vermont is known for its natural beauty, small town charm and maple syrup, which is made from the sap of sugar maples that grow in the state. Vermont also produces a lot of dairy products, including cheese and yogurt. In fact, the state is home to some of the best-known brands in the country, such as Cabot and Ben & Jerry’s. Vermont is also famous for its delicious cheddar cheese and being a great destination for winter sports.
These are some of things Vermont is known for that you can expect to uncover when you visiting this interesting destination.
Food Vermont Is Famous For
Maple Syrup
Vermont is known for their delicious maple syrup. The state produces more maple syrup than any other state in the US. In fact, Vermont is responsible for about 3/5 of the country’s maple syrup, and even exports some to Canada.
The maple sugar industry is so important to Vermont that they even have a Maple Syrup Day. On this day, locals celebrate all things maple syrup. There are pancake breakfasts, tours of sugar shacks, and even a maple syrup festival.
This tasty liquid is not just awesome by itself but also used to make many of the famous foods in Vermont. T
If you’re a fan of maple syrup, make sure to visit Vermont in the springtime when the sap starts to flow. March is often considered the prime month for maple syrup production.
Vermont Cheddar Cheese
Vermont is also famous for their cheddar cheese. In fact, the state produces about 100,000 pounds of cheddar cheese each year.
The majority of Vermont’s cheddar cheese is made in the town of Cabot. The Cabot Creamery was founded in 1919 and is now one of the most popular cheddar cheese brands in the US. Another well known name is the space is Shelburne Farms.
If you love cheese, then you’ll definitely want to try some Vermont cheddar cheese. And what better place to do that than at the Cabot Creamery? You can even take a tour of the facility and see how the cheese is made.
Apple Pie
Apple Pie is the official state pie of Vermont. The way they make it in Vermont is a little different than in other parts of the country. It is a little more crisp and has a stronger apple flavor.
There is even a 1999 law to serve apple pie with cold milk and cheddar cheese or ice cream on top. Apple is the state fruit of Vermont, so it is not surprising that their apple pie is famous. The state grows over 150 varieties of apple.
Birthplace of Ben & Jerry’s
Vermont is the birthplace of Ben & Jerry’s ice cream. In 1978, childhood friends Ben Cohen and Jerry Greenfield started the company in a converted gas station in Burlington.
The company has produced over 300 flavors of ice cream, many which are discontinued, presumably based on market demand. There is actually an interesting flavors graveyard behind their factory in Waterbury, that is made in honor of the discontinued flavors.
Ben & Jerry’s has some of the most popular and best ice cream in the world. Some of the fan favorite flavors are Chocolate Chip Cookie Dough, Strawberry Cheesecake, Chunky Monkey and more.
So, if you’re a fan of ice cream, make sure to visit Vermont and try some of their famous flavors! You can visit the Ben & Jerry’s Ice Cream Factory for a guided tour and try some free samples.
History, Culture, And Traditions Vermont Is Known For
Wineries And Breweries
Vermont is also famous for its wineries and breweries. The state has over 20 wineries and 60 breweries; and it is expected to grow.
The Vermont Wine Trail is a great way to sample some of the best wines in the state. There are also various Tasting trails in different regions that allows you to sample wines, beers and spirits in the area.
If you’re a beer lover, make sure to check out the Vermont Brewers Festival – one of the largest craft beer festivals in New England. Most of the craft breweries are in the Northeast region, and you can find many brewery tours to discover the Vermont beer scene.
Green Mountain State
Vermont is known as the “Green Mountain State” because of the lush green forests that run through the state. In fact, the state has one of the highest percetage of forest land in the United States.
The term comes from “Vert Mont” which means green mountain in English. It is believed to be first mentioned by a french explorer Samuel de Chaplin when he was exploring the area. These mountains are a popular destination for hiking, skiing, and other outdoor activities.
The mountains are not just famous for it’s greenery but also in white winters. They are home to popular ski resorts such as Killington Ski Resort. So, whether you’re looking to hit the slopes or just enjoy some scenic views, this is one of the most exciting facts about Vermont for outdoor lovers.
Farms and Farmers’ Markets
Vermont is a great place to get fresh, local food. There are many farms and farmers’ markets around the state where you can buy produce, meat, dairy, and more.
In the summer and fall, you can find roadside stands selling fresh fruits and vegetables. Make sure to stop at one of these stands for some yummy produce when you’re driving around Vermont!
Vermont is also known for its dairy farms. The state produces a lot of cheese, yogurt, and ice cream. If you love cheese, you’ll definitely want to visit Vermont. There are many great cheesemakers in the state, and you can even tour some of the farms.
Fall Foliage
One of the best things about Vermont is the stunning fall foliage. Every year, tourists come from all over to see the leaves change color.
The best time to see the leaves is usually in October, but it varies depending on the year. Make sure to check the Vermont Fall Foliage Report to see when the leaves will be at their peak.
Vermont is a great place to visit any time of the year, but if you’re there in the fall, make sure to take a drive or hike to see the beautiful leaves. You can also find many great photo spots on the Vermont Fall Foliage Map. Some of the best places to catch fall foliage in Vermont are along the Appalachian Trail, on Mount Mansfield, and in the Champlain Valley.
Vermont Covered Bridges
Vermont is home to over 100 covered bridges, and has more covered bridges per square mile than any other state in the US. Most of them were constructed in the period between 1820 to late 1800s.
These are just the remaining ones from history. At one point, Vermont boasts more than 700 bridges. Some of these bridges are very popular with tourists, such as the Cornish-Windsor Covered Bridge and the Kissing Bridge. Many people stop by to check out some of these interesting covered bridges when they are in Vermont.
If you’re keen on seeing some of Vermont’s covered bridges, make sure to check out the Vermont Covered Bridges Map.
First State To Abolish Slavery
Vermont was the first colony to abolish slavery, way back in 1777 before they were the 14th state. However, this was around the time when Vermont became a state, although it wasn’t ratified until 1791.
Interestingly, while slavery was being abolished in Vermont, it was still legal in other parts of New England. In fact, Massachusetts didn’t abolish slavery until 1783, and it was also later in 1865 that every state and territory of the United States got rid of the practice.
So, Vermont has always been at the forefront of social reform, even before becoming an official state.
Sports Vermont Is Famous For
Skiing and Snowboarding
Vermont is also known for being a popular winter sports destination. The state has several world-renowned ski resorts, including Killington, Stowe, and Jay Peak.
In fact, Vermont was the first state in the US to allow snowboarding on all of its ski slopes. So, if you’re looking to hit the slopes, Vermont is the place to be.
There’s even a snowboarding museum in Vermont, called the Vermont Ski and Snowboard Museum. The museum is located in Stowe and housed in an 1818 old town hall. It features exhbitions and items related to the history of skiing and snowboarding.
If you’re a fan of snowboarding or just want to learn more about the sport, the Museum located in Stowe’s National Historic District is definitely worth a visit.
Cities And Travel Destinations Vermont Is Famous For
Burlington
If you’re looking for the biggest city in Vermont, Burlington is where you’ll find it. This city is located on the shores of Lake Champlain and has a population of just over 42,000 people.
Burlington is known for being a lively college town. The University of Vermont is located here, as well as Champlain College.
As a place to enjoy the outdoors, Burlington is a great choice. There are plenty of parks and nature trails in the area, and the city even has its own beach. It also has a thriving craft beer scene that Vermont is generally known for. You can get on a brewery tour to easily visit the best local breweries in Burlington.
Woodstock
Woodstock, Vermont is a beautiful town in the heart of the state. It’s known for its covered bridges, quaint shops, and gorgeous scenery. Many visitors come to Woodstock to enjoy the small-town charm and experience some of the local history.
Woodstock is the perfect spot to relax and enjoy the outdoors. There are plenty of hiking and biking trails, as well as a few ski resorts nearby. And don’t forget to check out the covered bridges! They’re one of Vermont’s most iconic sights.
Long Trail
Vermont is also home to the Long Trail, which is one of the oldest long-distance hiking trail in the US. It runs the length of the state, from Massachusetts to Canada. The trail was constructed by the Green Mountain Club between 1910-1930.
It is a popular spot for hikers and nature lovers. June to October is the best period to hike the trail as it can be pretty rugged. The Vermont Long Trail is approximately 273 miles and it takes around 3-4 weeks to complete the whole trail.
Along the way, hikers can enjoy stunning views of Vermont’s mountains, valleys, and forests. It’s the perfect place to escape the hustle and bustle of everyday life and get back to nature.
Famous People From Vermont
Calvin Coolidge
Vermont is the birthplace of America’s 30th president, Calvin Coolidge. Coolidge was born in Plymouth Notch, Vermont, on July 4, 1872 – Independence Day. He would go on to have a very successful political career, becoming the governor of Massachusetts and later the Vice President of the United States.
As president, Coolidge is best known for his “laissez-faire” approach to government, which means he believed in minimal interference from the government in business and personal affairs. He was also president during a period of economic growth after World War I, which came to be known as the “Roaring Twenties.
John Deere
The John Deere company was founded in Vermont in 1837, and it is still one of the largest manufacturers of agricultural equipment in the world. The company’s headquarters are now located in Illinois, but its roots are firmly planted in Vermont.
It’s founder, John Deere is often credited with inventing the first steel-bladed plow, which revolutionized agriculture.
Today, John Deere is known for its green and yellow tractors and other agricultural equipment. And while the company may have left Vermont long ago, its impact on the state’s history is undeniable.
Architecture And Landmarks Vermont Is Famous For
Mount Mansfield
Vermont’s highest point is Mount Mansfield, which stands at 4,395 feet (1,340 meters). It is the only mountain in Vermont that has a more “alpine” environment. This means it has an ecosystem more similar to what you would find in Europe than anywhere else in Vermont.
The mountain has several peaks, one the tallest is called The Chin and features a relatively challenging trail. From various vantage points, you can see all the way to New Hampshire and Canada. Mount Mansfield is a popular spot for hiking and skiing, and many visitors come here to enjoy the stunning views.
Quechee Gorge
Sometimes known as the Grand Canyon of Vermont, the Quechee Gorge is one of Vermont’s most popular tourist and natural attractions. The gorge is located in the town of Hartford and is formed by the Ottauquechee River.
At 165 feet, it’s one of the deepest gorges in New England. It was formed over 13,000 years ago due to glacial movements. The views from the top are stunning, and there are several hiking trails that lead down to the river.
The Quechee Gorge is a popular spot for swimming, picnicking, and fishing in the summer. In the winter, you can also find avid climbers doing some ice climbing in the area.
Vermont Teddy Bear Factory
The Vermont Teddy Bear Factory is a must-see for any teddy bear lover. Located in Shelburne, Vermont, the factory is home to the original Vermont Teddy Bear. Founded in 1981, this is one of the largest producers of Teddy bears in the world, making around half a million bears each year.
At the factory, you can watch the teddy bears being made, buy a bear of your own, and even adopt a bear. The factory also has a museum with teddy bears from all over the world.
If you’re looking for a unique Vermont souvenir, a cute Teddy Bear from the Vermont Teddy Bear Factory is a great choice.
Rock of Ages Quarry – Graniteville
Vermont is also known for its quarries and granite. The state is home to the Rock of Ages Quarry, which is the largest “deep-hole” granite quarry in the world with 600 feet depth. The quarry is located in Graniteville and covers an area of appoximately 50 acres.
If you’re interested in seeing the quarry, there are tours available from May to October. The guided quarry tour lasts about 40 minutes where you will also get to see the Smith Quarry.
Tours start at specific timings, so be sure to check that and plan accordingly. There is also a factory which you can tour yourself, as well as the modern visitor center which houses a memorial design studio.
Many More Things Vermont Is Known And Famous For
These are just some of the things that Vermont is known for. The green mountain state features a rich history and plenty of things to see and do. From stunning fall foliage to delicious maple syrup, Vermont is a great place to visit if you love the outdoors, local food, and small-town charm.
