Franklin Vermont
ATTRACTIONS & THINGS TO DO
Listed below are the best attractions and things to do near Franklin, Vermont.
1. Green Mountains
NEW ENGLAND GEM | VERMONT VT
Vermont's iconic Green Mountains feature stunning landscapes from Mount Mansfield to Camel's Hump that captivate visitors year-round with activities ranging from hiking to snowboarding at Killington Resort. Scenic drives through fall foliage or visits to historic sites like Hildene complete this quintessential New England experience.
2. Lake Champlain
OUTDOOR ESCAPE | NORTHWEST VERMONT
Lake Champlain provides an unforgettable experience for fishing enthusiasts and outdoor adventurers in Vermont. Guests can fish for bass and trout along the lake's shores, bike the scenic Causeway Park, or visit family-friendly attractions like the Vermont Teddy Bear Factory and Sunset Drive-In. From Sand Bar State Park to Shelburne Farms, the region offers a perfect blend of recreation and relaxation.
3. Ski Resorts
WINTER WONDERLAND | VERMONT
Vermont's ski culture combines rich history with modern amenities, making it a top destination for winter sports. Stratton Mountain Resort and Bolton Valley Resort offer extensive trails and unique activities like night skiing and snowshoeing. The state's resorts promise unforgettable experiences surrounded by breathtaking landscapes.
4. Covered Bridges
HISTORIC STRUCTURES | VERMONT
Vermont is renowned for its covered bridges, which reflect the craftsmanship and charm of New England's past. Highlights include the Pulp Mill Covered Bridge, one of the oldest in the state, and the West Dummerston Covered Bridge, known for its impressive length and design. These structures provide a serene escape into Vermont's rural landscapes.
5. Idyllic Small Towns
SCENIC RETREATS | VERMONT
The small towns of Vermont are celebrated for their scenic landscapes and welcoming communities. From Woodstock's covered bridges to Middlebury's vibrant arts scene and Warren's mountain escapes, each town has its own unique appeal. Visitors can enjoy outdoor activities, local cuisine, and a peaceful retreat in these picturesque settings.
6. Vermont Maple Syrup
MAPLE TRADITIONS | VERMONT
Vermont's sugar houses showcase the artistry behind producing the finest maple syrup in the nation. Attractions such as Bragg Farm and Shelburne Sugarworks combine educational tours with delicious tastings of maple products. These destinations celebrate the enduring rural character of Vermont while offering unforgettable experiences for visitors of all ages.
7. Artisan Cheese Heritage
HERITAGE FLAVORS | VERMONT
Vermont's artisan cheese scene blends tradition with innovation, featuring creameries like Grafton Village Cheese and Spring Brook Farm Cheese. Guests can enjoy hands-on experiences such as tastings at von Trapp Farmstead or exploring the historic Plymouth Cheese Factory. This vibrant culture of cheesemaking reflects Vermont's commitment to quality and sustainability.
8. Craft Beer
BEER DISCOVERIES | VERMONT
Vermont stands out as a top destination for craft beer enthusiasts, featuring iconic spots like Hill Farmstead Brewery and Harpoon Brewery Taproom and Beer Garden. Burlington's vibrant offerings include Zero Gravity Brewery and Foam Brewers, while rural gems like Rek-Lis Brewing Company offer intimate tasting experiences. With its blend of creativity and quality, Vermont's craft beer scene is second to none.
9. Farm-to-Table Restaurants
FRESH INNOVATION | VERMONT
Vermont's Farm-to-Table Restaurants combine innovative cooking techniques with the freshest local ingredients to create unforgettable meals. Cloudland Farm serves farm-inspired menus in a picturesque countryside setting, while Starry Night Café adds charm with its cozy ambiance and creative dishes. Dining here reflects the heart of Vermont's agricultural traditions.
10. Fall Foliage Viewing
AUTUMN ESCAPE | VERMONT
Vermont's fall foliage season showcases nature's brilliance with its vibrant and colorful landscapes. Iconic spots like Quechee Gorge, Camel's Hump State Park, and Smugglers Notch State Park provide breathtaking views of the autumn transformation. Visitors can enjoy scenic drives, hiking trails, and charming villages that perfectly complement the foliage experience.
11. Hiking Trails
SCENIC ADVENTURES | VERMONT
Vermont offers a wealth of hiking opportunities, from the iconic Long Trail to scenic paths like the Sunset Ridge Trail on Mount Mansfield. Popular attractions include Camel's Hump, Killington Peak, and the picturesque Lye Brook Falls Trail. With trails for all skill levels, hikers can explore verdant forests, cascading waterfalls, and breathtaking mountain vistas.
12. Cycling And Mountain Biking
OUTDOOR ESCAPES | VERMONT
Discover Vermont's premier cycling and mountain biking destinations, from the flowy trails of Cady Hill Forest in Stowe to the rugged terrain of Thunder Mountain Bike Park. Riders can explore the Slate Valley Trails for stunning views or tackle the technical challenges at Ascutney Outdoors. With over 1,000 miles of trails, Vermont is a must-visit for outdoor enthusiasts.
13. Kayaking And Canoeing
WILDLIFE WATERS | VERMONT
From Lake Champlain's vast expanse to Green River Reservoir's secluded shores, Vermont is an ideal spot for kayaking and canoeing enthusiasts. Clyde River Recreation delivers rentals to top locations like Harvey's Lake, while guided tours from Vermont Canoe & Kayak ensure a seamless experience on the water. Paddlers can enjoy wildlife sightings amid stunning scenery.
14. Fishing
AQUATIC ESCAPES | VERMONT
From the expansive Lake Memphremagog to the serene Half Moon Pond, Vermont's fishing locations cater to all preferences. The Battenkill River is a must-visit for fly-fishing enthusiasts, while Weatherhead Hollow Pond offers a peaceful retreat for families. Vermont's rich aquatic ecosystems ensure a memorable experience for every angler.
15. Camping
TRAIL & LAKE | VERMONT
Camping in Vermont allows visitors to immerse themselves in pristine nature while enjoying outdoor activities like hiking and fishing. Gifford Woods State Park stands out for its access to the Appalachian Trail, while Woodford State Park offers high-elevation views and peaceful campsites.
16. Golf Courses
GOLF DESTINATIONS | VERMONT VT
Vermont's golf scene is rich with variety, boasting 63 courses across the state that blend natural beauty with expert design. The Equinox Golf Club in Manchester and Stratton Mountain Resort are standout destinations for their challenging holes and mountain vistas. From casual rounds to competitive play, Vermont's courses promise memorable experiences for all golfers.
17. Scenic Drives
WATERFALL VIEWS | VERMONT VT
Explore Vermont's scenic byways such as Mad River Byway or The Shires of VT Byway to experience its rich history and striking natural beauty. From cascading waterfalls to rolling farmland vistas, these drives offer a unique glimpse into the heart of the Green Mountain State.
18. Shopping Attractions
ICONIC SHOPS | VERMONT VT
Vermont invites shoppers to explore its unique blend of local craftsmanship and global appeal across its towns and markets. Highlights include Church Street Marketplace for lively shopping experiences, Woodstock's Clover Gift Shop for charming gifts, and Ben & Jerry's Factory Store for iconic treats. Every destination is full of surprises to discover.
19. Historical Sites
HISTORIC LANDMARKS | VERMONT
Vermont's historic landmarks reflect its deep connection to America's founding and cultural evolution. Visitors can explore treasures like Chimney Point Historic Site, a crossroads of early Native American and European cultures, or the stately Hildene mansion. These sites offer a perfect blend of historical education and scenic exploration for all ages.
20. Museums And Galleries
CREATIVE LEGACY | VERMONT
Vermont is home to museums and galleries that celebrate its creative legacy through art, history, and craftsmanship. The Shelburne Museum captivates with its expansive collection of folk art and historic buildings, while the Museum of Everyday Life in Glover transforms ordinary objects into extraordinary exhibits. These venues inspire curiosity and appreciation for Vermont's unique contributions to culture.