What is Vermont Known for? Discover Vermont’s Famous Facts, Foods, and Landmarks

From its fall foliage, endless winter sports, charming historic towns, and vibrant arts scene, Vermont is known for many things. Whether you’ve lived in Vermont for years or are considering moving to the state, there’s always something new to discover about this gorgeous place. 

So, if you’re wondering what else Vermont is known for, then you’re in the right place. Read on to find out more about Vermont, whether you’re looking for a home in Montpelier or an apartment in Burlington.

Job opportunities and economy

Vermont is known for its job industries in healthcare, tourism, and agriculture. Some of the primary corporations contributing to the state’s economy are the University of Vermont Medical Center, GlobalFoundries, and Ben & Jerry’s.

Vermont’s top five employers

• University of Vermont Medical Center
• GlobalFoundries
• State of Vermont Government
• IBM (Essex Junction plant)
• Ben & Jerry’s

Charming tourist attractions

• Burlington, located on the shores of Lake Champlain, has a vibrant arts scene, eclectic dining options, and outdoor activities. You can explore the Church Street Marketplace, visit the ECHO Leahy Center for Lake Champlain, and take scenic cruises on the lake.
• Stowe is a popular destination for skiing and outdoor recreation, with Stowe Mountain Resort offering slopes for all skill levels. Other activities include enjoying the hiking trails, taking scenic drives, and exploring the Trapp Family Lodge, famous from “The Sound of Music.”
• The Shelburne Museum, in Shelburne, showcases American folk art, quilts, and historic buildings spread across 45 acres. You can explore exhibits like the Ticonderoga steamboat, stroll through gardens, and view works by artists like Grandma Moses.
• The Ben & Jerry’s Factory Tour in Waterbury offers a behind-the-scenes look at ice cream production. You can learn about the company’s history, sample flavors in the tasting room, and check out the souvenirs at the gift shop.
• The Green Mountain Byway, also known as Vermont Route 100, is a scenic drive through the Green Mountains. Along the drive, be sure to enjoy views of covered bridges, rolling hills, and quaint towns like Stowe, Waitsfield, and Waterbury.

Farm-to-table regional cuisine

Vermont’s cuisine is focused on local and seasonal ingredients, often sourced from the state’s farms and maple syrup producers. Maple syrup is a cornerstone of Vermont’s culinary identity, used in dishes like maple creemees (soft-serve ice cream) and maple-glazed ham. Vermont cheddar cheese, known for its sharp and creamy flavor, is also popular in the state and beyond. Other local specialties include apple cider donuts and hearty New England-style clam chowder.

Top restaurants in Vermont

• Hen of the Wood in Burlington
• The Farmhouse Tap & Grill in Burlington
• Simon Pearce Restaurant in Quechee
• Michael’s on the Hill in Waterbury
• Three Penny Taproom in Montpelier

Did you know? Vermont is the largest producer of maple syrup in the US.

Arts scene and historic buildings

Vermont blends rural tranquility, historic charm, and a thriving arts scene to create a one-of-a-kind feel. The state is home to countless museums like the Shelburne Museum, the Bennington Museum, and the Fleming Museum of Art in Burlington, which showcase a diverse range of art and historical artifacts. In particular, cities like Burlington and Montpelier have theaters, galleries, and music venues that showcase Vermont’s creative spirit.

Historic sites in Vermont

• Calvin Coolidge Historic Site in Plymouth
• Ethan Allen Homestead Museum and Historic Site in Burlington
• Emma Willard House in Middlebury
• Brown Bridge in Shrewsbury
• Round Church in Richmond

Stunning mountains and seasonal landscapes

Vermont’s natural land formations are beautiful throughout the year with snow-capped peaks and rich autumnal-colored leaves. The picturesque Green Mountains run north-south through the state, offering hiking trails, ski resorts, and scenic vistas like in Stowe and Mount Mansfield. The state is also home to the beautiful Lake Champlain, which forms part of its western border with New York, and the rolling hills and valleys of the Vermont countryside.

Fun fact: Vermont has 55 state parks and over 800 lakes and ponds.

State parks in Vermont

• Green Mountain National Forest: Home to trails, stunning views, and wildlife viewing, this state park is top-tier.
• White Rocks National Recreation Area: Located in the Green Mountains, this area is home to the Peru Peak Wilderness as well as the Big Branch Wilderness.
• Camel’s Hump State Park: Known for its namesake mountain peak, Camel’s Hump has hiking trails, scenic views, and opportunities for backcountry skiing and snowshoeing in winter.
• Smugglers’ Notch State Park: Situated in the Green Mountains, Smugglers’ Notch offers hiking trails, scenic drives, and opportunities for rock climbing amidst rugged terrain.

Popular Vermont phrases

In Vermont, you’ll encounter expressions that reflect the state’s scenic beauty and rural charm. 

• “Leaf peeping,” is a beloved tradition of admiring the vibrant fall foliage. 
• “Maple sugaring,” is a springtime activity of tapping maple trees for syrup. 
• “Skiing at Stowe,” is common in the Green Mountains 
• “Hiking the Long Trail,” is a rugged footpath running the length of the state.
• “Down cellar,” is another way to say basement.

More things Vermont is known for

• Green Mountain State: Vermont’s nickname, the Green Mountain State, honors its verdant landscapes and the Green Mountains that traverse the state.
• Covered bridges: Vermont is known for its historic covered bridges. These include the picturesque bridges of Woodstock and the Shelburne Museum’s iconic bridge, showcasing the state’s rural charm and craftsmanship.
• Craft beer scene: Vermont’s craft beer industry is renowned for its quality brews, innovative breweries like The Alchemist and Hill Farmstead Brewery, and beer festivals that celebrate local flavors and creativity.
• Lake Champlain: Bordering Vermont, Lake Champlain offers scenic beauty, recreational activities like boating and fishing. There are also historic sites in the area, such as Fort Ticonderoga and the Lake Champlain Maritime Museum.
• Skiing and outdoor recreation: Vermont’s winter sports resorts, including Stowe, Killington, and Smugglers’ Notch, attract skiers, snowboarders, and outdoor enthusiasts with their snowy slopes and scenic mountain views.

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