Vermont

Vermont hooks you with its jaw-dropping scenery, friendly little towns, and outdoor spots that make getting away feel simple and right. People show up for the Green Mountains' quiet grandeur, Burlington's easy lakeside vibe, or a real taste of that legendary maple syrup—and somehow, it all clicks no matter what you're after.

Burlington hugs Lake Champlain shores as the main spot around, mixing arts, old buildings standing proud, and stores you could browse for hours. The University of Vermont adds that fresh energy—hit the Church Street Marketplace for street-side cafes, local bites, or paddle out on the lake to fish spots where the water's glass-calm.

Outdoors always steals the show, whether Green Mountains paths call for a solid hike or Killington and Stowe Mountain Resort pull skiers through winter and hikers later on. Appalachian Trail stretches deliver those knockout views, turning electric come fall with leaves that light up drives or trails when the color hits just right.

Farms here turn out the real stuff—cheeses that win ribbons, craft beers with bite, maple syrup straight from the tree. Drop into Ben & Jerry’s factory at Waterbury for their origin tales and creamy scoops fresh off the line, or wind along the Vermont Cheese Trail where folks at dairy stops share samples and farm yarns.

History pops up gentle-like at the Shelburne Museum outside Burlington, cramming folk pieces, old wheels, even full houses hauled in. Bag Mount Mansfield, Vermont's top peak, and take in sweeps that go forever alongside nods to Native days on the heights.

Woodstock and Middlebury nail the getaway feel—Woodstock keeps its historic heart intact near good trails, Middlebury offers snug B&Bs for mornings that stretch lazy. These places let you settle in amid views that work their magic slow.

Ski fresh powder, chase ridges, meander villages, or stack pancakes high with syrup—Vermont nails New England without the fuss. Get your trip rolling with Great American Tours and watch the state's best unfold natural as can be.