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05 Nov 2025
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Day Trip to Vermont From NYC

Day Trip to Vermont From NYC: Itinerary Overview

Start your adventure early from New York City and head north into Vermont’s picturesque landscapes. Your first stop is the awe-inspiring Quechee Gorge, often called Vermont’s Little Grand Canyon, where you can take in dramatic views from the bridge and walk scenic trails along the river. Continue northwest toward Waterbury for a fun and flavorful Ben & Jerry's Factory Tour, learning about this iconic ice cream brand, its quirky history, and sampling fresh flavors.

Next, enjoy some outdoor activity along the Stowe Recreation Path, a scenic, family-friendly pathway perfect for a peaceful walk or bike ride among rolling hills and charming bridges. In the afternoon, immerse yourself in art, history, and local culture at the extraordinary Shelburne Museum, which showcases everything from fine art to historic buildings and lovely gardens. End your day at the lively Church Street Marketplace in Burlington, a vibrant pedestrian mall filled with shops, live music, and Vermont charm before heading back to NYC, filled with memories of Vermont’s beauty and spirit.


Recommended Activities

  • Trip Point Pin1

    Quechee Gorge

    Known as Vermont’s Little Grand Canyon, Quechee Gorge offers spectacular views from the bridge, scenic hiking trails, and beautiful photo opportunities of the Ottauquechee River.
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  • Trip Point Pin2

    Ben & Jerry's Factory Tour

    This iconic factory tour in Waterbury provides a behind-the-scenes look at how the famous ice cream is made, complete with interesting factory facts, interactive exhibits, and delicious samples.
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  • Trip Point Pin3

    Stowe Recreation Path

    A picturesque, family-friendly path stretching through forests, fields, and over bridges, the Stowe Recreation Path is perfect for walking, biking, and enjoying Vermont’s scenic beauty year-round.
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  • Trip Point Pin4

    Shelburne Museum

    This unique, open-air museum features an eclectic collection of art, artifacts, historic buildings, and gardens, offering an engaging journey through Vermont’s history and culture.
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  • Trip Point Pin5

    Church Street Marketplace

    A lively, pedestrian-friendly hub in downtown Burlington, the Church Street Marketplace offers shopping, entertainment, and street performers—in a vibrant atmosphere perfect for strolling and people-watching.
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Restaurants

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    Hen of the Wood - Burlington, Vermont

    4.7
    $$$$

    Hen of the Wood - Burlington, Vermont

    Celebrated for its farm-to-table cuisine and cozy ambiance, Hen of the Wood offers inventive dishes featuring Vermont’s best local ingredients.
    4.7
    $$$$
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    Prohibition Pig

    4.5
    $$$$

    Prohibition Pig

    A Waterbury hotspot known for its Southern-inspired barbecue, creative comfort food, and craft beer selection.
    4.5
    $$$$
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    Misery Loves Co.

    4.6
    $$$$

    Misery Loves Co.

    Located in Winooski, this spot is praised for its seasonal, inventive dishes and unique, ever-changing menu.
    4.6
    $$$$
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    Bluebird Barbecue

    4.5
    $$$$

    Bluebird Barbecue

    A local favorite in Burlington, Bluebird Barbecue serves exceptional smoked meats and hearty sides in a relaxed setting.
    4.5
    $$$$
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    Honey Road

    4.7
    $$$$

    Honey Road

    This buzzy Burlington spot features Eastern Mediterranean-inspired small plates made with Vermont ingredients, perfect for sharing.
    4.7
    $$$$
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Hotels

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    Hotel Vermont

    Hotel Vermont

    A stylish and eco-conscious hotel in downtown Burlington, offering modern amenities, local art, and easy access to local attractions.
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    The Essex, Vermont’s Culinary Resort & Spa

    4.4

    The Essex, Vermont’s Culinary Resort & Spa

    Known for its culinary experiences and relaxing spa, The Essex combines comfort with gourmet cuisine and beautiful surroundings.
    4.4
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    Stowe Mountain Lodge

    4.5

    Stowe Mountain Lodge

    An upscale resort nestled in the Green Mountains, great for its luxurious accommodations and proximity to outdoor adventures.
    4.5
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    Trapp Family Lodge

    3.3
    $$$$

    Trapp Family Lodge

    A world-famous mountain resort run by the von Trapp family, providing Austrian-inspired hospitality and stunning mountain views.
    3.3
    $$$$
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    Hilton Burlington Lake Champlain

    3.9

    Hilton Burlington Lake Champlain

    Featuring lakeside views and a convenient location near downtown, this hotel offers comfort and easy access to both the waterfront and city attractions.
    3.9
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Local Events & Happenings

  • Event Icon

    Natalie Merchant

    Natalie Merchant

    The event will take place at Spruce Peak Performing Arts Center in Stowe.
    Map IconSpruce Peak Performing Arts Center in Stowe (16.48 mi)
    Calendar Icon13 Nov 2025
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  • Event Icon

    Yung Hood

    Yung Hood

    The event will take place at Higher Ground in South Burlington.
    Map IconHigher Ground in South Burlington (19.88 mi)
    Calendar Icon6 Nov 2025
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  • Event Icon

    The Lone Bellow

    The Lone Bellow

    The event will take place at Higher Ground in South Burlington.
    Map IconHigher Ground in South Burlington (19.88 mi)
    Calendar Icon6 Nov 2025
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  • Event Icon

    Kendall Street Company

    Kendall Street Company

    The event will take place at Showcase Lounge at Higher Ground in South Burlington.
    Map IconShowcase Lounge at Higher Ground in South Burlington (19.88 mi)
    Calendar Icon7 Nov 2025
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  • Event Icon

    Start Making Sense

    Start Making Sense

    The event will take place at Higher Ground in South Burlington.
    Map IconHigher Ground in South Burlington (19.88 mi)
    Calendar Icon8 Nov 2025
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  • Event Icon

    Carbon Leaf

    Carbon Leaf

    The event will take place at Higher Ground in South Burlington.
    Map IconHigher Ground in South Burlington (19.88 mi)
    Calendar Icon9 Nov 2025
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  • Event Icon

    Hannah Frances

    Hannah Frances

    The event will take place at Showcase Lounge at Higher Ground in South Burlington.
    Map IconShowcase Lounge at Higher Ground in South Burlington (19.88 mi)
    Calendar Icon10 Nov 2025
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Travel Gems from Reddit

  • Reddit Icon

    The sugar shacks may be open now, though I don't have a specific one to recommend. ... Here's a trip through upstate New York you could consider. There is one place ...

    New York to Vermont Road Trip

    The sugar shacks may be open now, though I don't have a specific one to recommend. ... Here's a trip through upstate New York you could consider. There is one place ...

    /r/roadtrip
  • Reddit Icon

    Often stop at the Greenfield, MA exit off 91 as well. McDonalds, Big Y, Starbucks going in, gas stations. Youre pretty close to VT at that point and it has way more options th...

    Roadtripping to Vermont from NYC - any favorite pit stops?

    Often stop at the Greenfield, MA exit off 91 as well. McDonalds, Big Y, Starbucks going in, gas stations. Youre pretty close to VT at that point and it has way more options th...

    /r/icecoast
  • Reddit Icon

    Pair your stay with a delicious Vermont-crafted meal think farm-to-table goodness, local cheeses, and a glass of cider or craft beer. Stowe is also home to luxurious spas, per...

    Road trip from NYC

    Pair your stay with a delicious Vermont-crafted meal think farm-to-table goodness, local cheeses, and a glass of cider or craft beer. Stowe is also home to luxurious spas, per...

    /r/vermont
  • Reddit Icon

    Hi I'm planning a road-trip to Vermont from nyc, it'll be me and my girlfriend (both 22) what are some interesting places to stop by; food, scenic

    New York City to Vermont

    Hi I'm planning a road-trip to Vermont from nyc, it'll be me and my girlfriend (both 22) what are some interesting places to stop by; food, scenic

    /r/roadtrip
  • Reddit Icon

    Hey there! Im driving from Jersey up to Stowe for a long weekend, on the way back down I want to make a little day trip to different distilleries

    Vermont day trip recs?

    Hey there! Im driving from Jersey up to Stowe for a long weekend, on the way back down I want to make a little day trip to different distilleries

    /r/roadtrip

Music for Your Journey

  • Music Icon

    Red Hot Chili Peppers - Road Trippin'

    Red Hot Chili Peppers - Road Trippin'

    A mellow, scenic tune perfect for the open Vermont roads.
    Listen on Spotify
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    Noah Kahan - Stick Season

    Noah Kahan - Stick Season

    A jazzy classic that captures the spirit of the Green Mountain State.
    Listen on Spotify
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    Rusted Root - Send Me on My Way

    Rusted Root - Send Me on My Way

    Upbeat and joyful, it sets a positive tone for travel exploration.
    Listen on Spotify
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    Edward Sharpe & The Magnetic Zeros - Home

    Edward Sharpe & The Magnetic Zeros - Home

    A heartfelt folk tune about finding comfort in the journey.
    Listen on Spotify
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    John Denver - Take Me Home, Country Roads

    John Denver - Take Me Home, Country Roads

    A sing-along anthem celebrating rural landscapes and adventure.
    Listen on Spotify
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    Van Morrison - Into the Mystic - 2013 Remaster

    Van Morrison - Into the Mystic - 2013 Remaster

    A soulful, relaxing song ideal for reflecting on Vermont’s natural beauty.
    Listen on Spotify
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    Joni Mitchell - Big Yellow Taxi - Live

    Joni Mitchell - Big Yellow Taxi - Live

    An upbeat reminder to appreciate natural wonders along the route.
    Listen on Spotify
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    Don McLean - American Pie

    Don McLean - American Pie

    Perfect for a road trip, this song captures the spirit of discovery.
    Listen on Spotify
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  • Music Icon

    Katrina & The Waves - Walking On Sunshine

    Katrina & The Waves - Walking On Sunshine

    Bright, joyful energy that lifts your mood as you travel.
    Listen on Spotify
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  • Music Icon

    George Ezra - Budapest

    George Ezra - Budapest

    A laid-back, catchy tune that complements sweeping Vermont vistas.
    Listen on Spotify
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