The US state of Vermont is known for its beautiful autumn forests, ski slopes, and delicious maple syrup. But the small state in the Northeast has much more to offer! Join us on a romantic journey through the "Green Mountain State."
| Capital: | Montpelier |
| Area: | 24,901 km² |
| Population: | about 625,000 |
| Location: | Northeast USA |
| Nickname: | The Green Mountain State |
| State animal: | Hermit thrush |
| Time zone: | Eastern: UTC−5/−4 |
The small US state of Vermont is located in the Northeast of the USA and is assigned to the New England area. It borders Canada to the north and New Hampshire, New York, and Massachusetts on the US side.
Vermont is one of the smallest states in the USA. About 98% of its residents are US citizens, and about 7% were born outside the USA, which is far below the national average.
Additionally, Vermonters are older than residents of the rest of the United States. With an average age of about 43, Vermont ranks third among the "oldest" US states, following Maine and New Hampshire.
The most common birthplace of Vermont immigrants is Canada, followed by Mexico, Bhutan, France, England, Ireland, and Germany.
Compared to the rest of the USA, there are no large metropolitan areas in Vermont, and the populations of the towns are tiny. The largest cities in Vermont by population are:
| City | Population |
|---|---|
| Burlington | 43,000 |
| South Burlington | 19,000 |
| Rutland | 16,000 |
| Barre | 9,000 |
| Montpelier | 8,000 |
In Vermont, you'll find distinct seasons. Summers are warm and humid with up to 40 °C, and winters are cold and snowy with down to -40 °C.
When it's not midsummer, Vermont is usually cool and humid like the rest of New England. With an average annual temperature of only 6°C, you'll have to dress warmly most of the time in the Green Mountain State.
Storms and thunderstorms are part of everyday life. They are especially common in late spring and early summer. In winter, you can also expect snowstorms.
It's easy to guess how Vermont got its nickname because the imposing Green Mountains stretch across the state from North to South.
The fact that Vermont has another nickname, "The Maple State," is, of course, due to the high percentage of maple trees, which, together with the countless other deciduous trees, provide a spectacularly bright Indian Summer backdrop, especially in the fall.
Aside from the mountains and forests, much of Vermont's landscape consists of uplands, rivers, and river valleys. On romantic hikes, road trips, or mountain bike tours in Vermont, you can encounter bears, moose, deer, foxes, eagles, and turtles, among others.
The best outdoor days in Vermont are in mid-summer and the bright fall. Nevertheless, the Green Mountain State is also a popular place for skiers because of the abundance of snow. Therefore, the freezing winters are also high season in Vermont.
July and August bring long, warm days and clear skies to Vermont. Visit one of the many summer festivals, enjoy hikes through the mountains, or relax by the lake. The romantic Farmer's Markets also offer a great atmosphere. Tip: A cruise ship on beautiful Lake Champlain allows you to take a leisurely cruise with food and drinks.
Expect large crowds of tourists if you want to enjoy the priceless views of autumnal Vermont because "Indian Summer" is truly an attraction here. Skiing and snowboarding are also legendary in Vermont. Most ski resorts open their gates as early as late November and don't close until mid-April. The ski area in Killington ("Beast of the East") has a whole seven peaks.
Burlington International Airport provides convenient access to northern and central Vermont and is served by major airlines such as United, American Airlines, and Delta. If you want to go to central or southern Vermont, you can also fly to Rutland.
However, flights to Vermont are usually much more expensive than flights to surrounding airports. A road trip or connecting flight from Boston, New York City, Montreal, Philadelphia, or Washington, D.C. to Vermont is worthwhile for international visitors.
Remember: If you are not a US citizen or Green Card holder, then you will need a US visa or ESTA to enter the United States.
With an ESTA, you can stay 90 days visa-free in the USA. Apply online now!
If you've decided against a cheaper flight to the metropolitan area and instead prefer to land directly at Burlington International Airport (BTV), then you have the following transfer options:
There are more than 20 different cab services to choose from at the small Burlington International Airport. The starting fee is $2.50, and the airport surcharge is $4.00.
BTV is served by a number of private ride service providers. To order a shuttle, call ahead to one of the phone numbers posted on the airport website.
You'll find all car rental agencies right next to the terminal baggage claim areas. Burlington International Airport also has a pick-up point for lyft, UBER, and GreenCab ride services.
Vermont is a state for nature lovers. If you're a fan of hiking, camping, swimming, biking, skiing, and other outdoor activities, the Green Mountain State is the place for you. Here are the most beautiful places in Vermont:
At Smugglers' Notch State Park, a beautiful rugged rocky pass leads you through the highest peaks of the Green Mountains. Various trails take you through dense forests and into a wetland where you can admire the local beavers at work.
After a leisurely hike to the top of Mount Philo, you'll have a fantastic view over Lake Champlain all the way to New York! On your walk, you can choose between paved roads or rustic forest trails.
Tip: If you're having a lazy day, you can cheat and drive to the top.
Half Moon Pond is a small pond, but it's a great place to get away from the hustle and bustle of Vermont. At Half Moon Pond State Park, enchanting hiking trails lead you around parts of the pond, and the calm water invites you to take a paddle. There are also two nearby lakes for swimming and fishing. Tip: Paddle across the pond at night, and you can see the Milky Way shining in the sky.
You'll find absolute wilderness for hiking in the Green Mountain National Forest in southern Vermont. Waterfalls, cliffs, and dense forests await you here. Come in the morning mist of a sunny fall day or enjoy the absolute silence on a winter snow walk. There are also many opportunities for kayaking in the area.
A fearsomely deep gorge and gushing whitewater await you at Quechee Gorge State Park. Pitch your tent at one of the well-kept campsites and descend into the depths of the gorge.
The following places in Vermont are must-sees and should definitely be on your travel list:
Vermont is a state full of surprises. Here are the highlights for your city break in the Green Mountain State:
Pretty Burlington, on the shores of Lake Champlain, is truly a feast for the eyes. Vermont's largest city, Burlington, also has a lot to offer: from festivals and concerts to action-packed ski vacations and award-winning restaurants, there's something for everyone here.
These are places you don't want to miss in Burlington:
In the middle of the Green Mountains, the beautiful city of Montpelier awaits your discovery. With only about 7,800 residents, it is the smallest capital city in the United States. Enjoy the rushing Winooski River that runs through the residential areas or stroll through the leafy streets with their old houses.
These are the places you should see in Montpelier:
If you're into historic buildings, Rutland is the place for you! Walk through the architectural wonders of the 19th century, visit one of the many museums, or take a great sledding or biking trip in the surrounding countryside.
These are the places you should see in Rutland:
Although Barre is not a spectacular place, the small town is considered one of the friendliest towns in Vermont. Because Barre is built entirely on granite, you'll also find bizarre scenery, such as at the Granite Mine with its bright blue water.
These are the places you should see in Barre:
For your road trip through Vermont, we recommend the golden autumn because you will never forget the unique glow of the Indian summer leaves in Vermont. Take Route 100 from the South to the North.
On your road trip, you'll drive through Green Mountain National Forest, stop at waterfalls and lighthouses, picnic by rushing streams or at the foot of forested hills, and marvel at Vermont's fascinating natural wonders and legendary covered wooden bridges.
There are beautiful and exciting places hiding in the Green Mountain State that you should share with your friends and followers. Here are our top 5 Instagram hotspots in Vermont:
If you want to try typical food from the Green Mountain State on your Vermont trip, you'll find it at farms, Farmers Markets, or smaller restaurants.
Try the following treats when you're in Vermont:
Also, be sure to try the local maple syrup on top of a bowl full of snow. This dish is called "Sugar on Snow" and is nothing but iced maple syrup. Yum! Vermont, by the way, is the largest producer of maple syrup in the USA, producing over 500,000 gallons per year.
You probably haven't heard these exciting facts about the US state of Vermont:
Oh, it's so beautiful here in Vermont! It's only understandable if you want to stay right here after your vacation. It's not that hard to move to the Green Mountain State.
Vermont's major industries include manufacturing, agriculture, tourism, energy production, and technology. However, many residents make a living from seasonal jobs such as working at ski resorts.
The largest employers are found in education, tourism, technology, and hospitals. These include the UVM Medical Center, the University of Vermont, Globalfoundries, Jay Peak Resort, and Killington Grand Resort.
The highest-paying occupations in Vermont are physicians, executives, attorneys, judges, prosecutors, and other judicial employees.
Although the cost of living in Vermont is not high compared to the rest of the Northeastern USA, you can expect a little tax shock if you move to the Green Mountain State from low-tax states like Texas.
On the other hand, life in Vermont is very idyllic (almost romantic) and close to nature. Especially in the fall, your new adopted home is an enchanted place.
The best way to get around in nature is by ski, snowboard, or snowmobile in some months. Also, the mud season after the thaw can be a bit chaotic.
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