Vermont Destination Guide

Overview of Vermont

Vermont State Historic Site and the Lake Champlain Bridge
Photo credit: Zeph77

Vermont is a small, highly attractive state in New England, sandwiched between New York and New Hampshire, bordering the Canadian province of Quebec in the north. The impressive Green Mountains create a north-south spine running most of the length of the state, the majority of which are covered by dense forest, and the glittering Lake Champlain stretches across the northwest. With 55 state parks, top-class outdoor activities and spectacular fall foliage, it is no surprise that tourism is Vermont's biggest industry.

Vermont was originally inhabited by small groups of Algonquin-speaking Native Americans, including the Abenaki and Mohicans. The Iroquois later edged out most of the smaller groups, claiming the area as a hunting ground. Large-scale European settlement began much later in the mid-1600s when French explorer Samuel de Champlain claimed what is now known as the Lake Champlain region as part of New France. The British soon ousted the French, and new settlers brought new conflicts, giving rise to the Green Mountain Boys militia (begun by New Hampshire settler Ethan Allen) who fought the British in the Revolutionary War. Vermont became the 14th state in 1791.

Vermont is popular year round, but the abundance of world-class ski resorts means that winter is a peak season, with a focus on cross-country and downhill, snowshoeing and snowboarding. For those who prefer the warmer months, summer offers a wide range of activities from hiking, fishing, camping and water sports, to traditional New England clam bakes and lake cruises. Autumn is breathtaking, and the sugar maples are a riot of golds, oranges and reds. Visitors should take the time to sample some of the state's famed maple syrup, indulge in local cheeses or visit the birthplace of Ben and Jerry's Ice Cream.

Although Montpelier is the state capital, Burlington is Vermont's biggest city, situated on the eastern shore of Lake Champlain. The city is lively, attractive and historically significant as one of the leading ports in the country. A restored waterfront with views of the Adirondacks, bustling markets and moderate climate make it an essential stop on any visit to the Green Mountain State.

Key Facts

Language:

English is the most common language spoken but Spanish is often heard in the south-western states.

Passport/Visa:

It is highly recommended that travellers' passports have at least six months' validity remaining after the intended date of departure from them travel destination. A visa is required for short visits unless travellers qualify for entry under the Visa Waiver Program.

The Visa Waiver Program (VWP) enables citizens of certain countries to travel to the US for a stay of up to 90 days without a visa. Visitors under the VWP need to register online three days before travel and have an Electronic System for Travel Authorization (ESTA). This allows the US government to screen all visitors before travel. Visitors entering the country under the VWP must have a machine-readable passport (MRP) that has a barcode on the photo page. Travellers under the VWP must have passports that include biometrics if they wish to enter the country without a visa, which means that passports must contain unique personal data such as fingerprints or iris details. All passports must contain a digital photo image in order to travel visa-free. All visitors to the USA have a photograph and two fingerprints taken by an inkless scanner on arrival, including those travelling visa-free under the VWP.

As part of the Western Hemisphere Travel Initiative (WHTI), all travellers travelling between the United States and Canada, Mexico, Bermuda, and the Caribbean region are required to present a passport or other valid travel document to enter or re-enter the United States. If departing from the USA, a valid passport is required by immigration authorities. Immigration officials often apply different rules to those stated by travel agents and official sources.

Currency:

The official currency is the US Dollar (USD), which is divided into 100 cents. Only major banks exchange foreign currency. ATMs are widespread and credit cards are widely accepted. Banking hours are Monday to Friday 9am to 3pm.

Electricity:

Electrical current is 120 volts, 60Hz. Plugs are mainly the type with two flat pins, though three-pin plugs (two flat parallel pins and a rounded pin) are also widely used. European appliances without dual-voltage capabilities will require an adapter.

Travel Advisories

Travel to Vermont

Climate

Vermont's climate is changeable, with greater differences between summer and winter temperatures than most parts of New England. The northern region, including what is known as the Northeastern Kingdom, tends to experience the coldest winters in the state, with temperatures averaging about 10F (6C) colder than in the south. Summer temperatures average around 70F (21C). Snowfall in winter is heavy and most rainfall occurs in the summer. Spring tends to bring what is known as the mud season, when frozen ground thaws, resulting in thick mud.

Health Notes when travelling to United States of America

There are no specific health risks associated with travel within the USA. Medical facilities are excellent, but expensive. Only emergencies are treated without prior payment and treatment can be refused without evidence of insurance or proof of funds. Good medical insurance is essential. Visitors must be fully vaccinated with the primary series of an accepted COVID-19 vaccine to travel to the United States by plane if they are non-U.S. citizens.

Safety Notes when travelling to United States of America

Travel within the United States is generally trouble-free, though travellers should be aware that the US shares with the rest of the world, an increased threat from terrorist incidents. Security has been heightened, particularly at airports. Restrictions on hand luggage apply and travellers are advised to check on the latest situation with airlines in advance. Travellers should also be alert to the dangers of car and street crime in cities and should use common sense and take basic precautions. Hurricanes are common between June and November, putting the southern USA, including the Gulf Coast and the eastern US at risk. There is a risk of wildfires in many dry areas in the US, particularly on the West Coast from March to November.

Customs in United States of America

Laws vary from state to state, including speed limit, fines and punishment. The age at which alcohol may be legally bought and consumed is 21 years.

Duty Free in United States of America

Travellers to the United States who are returning residents of the country do not have to pay duty on articles purchased abroad to the value of $800 provided their stay was longer than 48 hours and their duty-free allowance was not used in the 30-day period prior. For passengers arriving from Samoa, Guam and the U.S. Virgin Islands, a duty-free allowance of $1,600 is allowed. The following items are included in this: 50 cigarettes and 10 cigars and 150 millilitres (5 fl. oz.) of alcoholic beverages or 150 millilitres (5 fl. oz.) of perfume containing alcohol. Restrictions may apply to goods from Cuba, Iran, North Korea, Burma (Myanmar), Angola, Liberia and Sudan. It is prohibited to import Cuban cigars from any country.

Travellers to the United States who are non-residents do not have to pay duty on the following items: 50 cigars or 200 cigarettes and gifts to the value of $100 provided their stay in the USA is not less than 72 hours and that the allowance has not been used in the preceding six-month period.

Prohibited items for residents and non-residents include meat or meat products, poultry, narcotics, absinthe, plants, seeds, vegetables, fruits, soil, live insects and other living plants or animal pests. Fish is prohibited unless it carries disease-free certification. Wildlife and animals or their by-products carry restrictions. Dairy products and eggs from specified countries are not allowed. Firearms and ammunition are not allowed without the necessary license and permit.

Doing Business in United States of America

In such a large country, filled with so many diverse groups, business practices may differ according to each state, however rarely to any large degree. The East Coast is traditionally more formal than the West Coast, though in states such as California, dress code and conservative appearance are as common as they would be in New York. Punctuality is important throughout the country and it is considered rude to be late for a meeting. Gift-giving is uncommon as it may be construed as bribery. Appropriate titles (Mr, Mrs, Ms) are used upon introduction and until otherwise stated. Americans favour politeness and greetings of 'Hello' and 'How are you?' are often expressed with sincerity. Business hours may vary in each state, but an 8am start and 5pm finish Monday to Friday is the most common with an hour over lunch.

Status and age are not necessarily indicative of seniority, nor do they carry much weight in themselves. Those doing business in the States should be mindful of this fact; foreigners should never make assumptions about someone's position or rank. Best practice is to be respectful to all parties. That said, the US upholds a hierarchal business structure, in which 'the boss' is the ultimate decision-maker. Senior leaders have the power of the last word, and can go against the grain just as easily as they can follow popular opinion. Foreigners should concentrate on winning over this individual, even if the greater group seems unsupportive. Americans value a direct style of communication. In this fast-paced, consumer culture 'time is money', and small-talk is viewed as unnecessary and wasteful. It's best for foreigners to get to the point quickly, speak about issues in a frank and open manner, and to avoid taking offence if someone questions or challenges them outright.

Communication in United States of America

The international country dialling code for the United States is +1. Mobile networks cover most of the country, especially all urban areas, and WiFi is widely available.

Tipping in United States of America

A 15 percent tip is expected by taxi drivers, bartenders, hairdressers and waiters, but travellers shouldn't tip in fast-food or self-service restaurants. In expensive restaurants or for large parties, the tip should be 20 percent of the bill. It is normal to tip staff such as valets and porters in hotels; this is discretionary, although a minimum of $5 is expected. Most services are customarily tipped if the service is good.

Passport/Visa Note

Entry Requirements

Entry requirements for Canadians:: The most important requirement on entering the U.S. is providing proof of Canadian citizenship. A valid Canadian passport is the best document to prove Canadian citizenship and the right to return to Canada. However, several other documents can serve, depending on the mode of transport. Generally, Canadian citizens do not require visitor, business, transit or other visas to enter the United States from Canada, though there are some exceptions.
Entry requirements for UK nationals:: UK nationals require a passport valid for duration of stay. Most passport holders can get an Electronic System for Travel Authorisation (ESTA) through the Visa Waiver Programme, which allows travel to the US for up to 90 days. The VWP includes tourism, certain types of business visit and transit to another country.
Entry requirements for Australians:: Passports must be valid for the period of intended stay. If visiting the US for fewer than 90 days, Australian nationals may be eligible to apply for an Electronic System for Travel Authorization (ESTA), and enter under the Visa Waiver Program (VWP).
Entry requirements for Irish nationals:: Passports must be valid for duration of stay. Irish nationals can get an Electronic System for Travel Authorisation (ESTA) under the Visa Waiver Programme for entry into the United States.
Entry requirements for New Zealanders:: Passports must be valid for duration of stay. New Zealand nationals can get an Electronic System for Travel Authorisation (ESTA) under the Visa Waiver Programme for entry into the United States.
Entry requirements for South Africans:: South Africans must hold a passport valid for duration of stay. A visa is required.

Currency

Exchange rate for 1 USD - U.S. Dollar
0.00 BMD Bermudan Dollar	0.93 EUR Euro	0.80 GBP U.K. Pound Sterling	152.99 JPY Japanese Yen	1.37 CAD Canadian Dollar	0.91 CHF Swiss Franc
1.52 AUD Australian Dollar	39.40 UAH Ukrainian Hryvnia	443.91 KZT Kazakhstani Tenge	93,075.00 LBP Lebanese Pound	4.86 LYD Libyan Dinar	6.86 BOB Bolivian Boliviano
0.00 NPR Nepalese Rupee	0.00 OMR Omani Rial	0.00 QAR Qatari Rial	1.35 SGD Singapore Dollar	10.82 SEK Swedish Krona	0.00 TTD Trinidad Tobago Dollar
0.00 VEF Venezuelan Bolivar	58.11 DOP Dominican Peso	0.00 HRK Croatian Kuna	16.95 MXN Mexican Peso	610.53 XOF West African CFA Franc	0.00 PGK Papua New Guinean kina
0.00 BSD Bahamian Dollar	0.00 FJD Fiji Dollar	0.00 HNL Honduran Lempira	133.87 DZD Algerian Dinar	0.00 MMK Myanma Kyat	0.00 BWP Botswana Pula
3.72 PEN Peruvian Nuevo Sol	938.44 CLP Chilean Peso	386.84 AMD Armenia Dram	23.29 CZK Czech Koruna	17.63 MDL Moldova Lei	139.89 ISK Icelandic Krona
12,582.40 UZS Uzbekistan Sum	3.72 ILS Israeli New Sheqel	0.71 JOD Jordanian Dinar	0.00 KWD Kuwaiti Dinar	38.15 UYU Uruguayan Peso	0.00 MUR Mauritian Rupee
0.00 NIO Nicaraguan Córdoba	10.88 NOK Norwegian Krone	4.03 PLN Polish Zloty	3.75 SAR Saudi Riyal	0.00 LKR Sri Lanka Rupee	36.79 THB Thai Baht
3.66 AED U.A.E Dirham	5.09 BRL Brazilian Real	4.63 RON Romanian New Leu	7.81 HKD Hong Kong Dollar	610.53 XAF Central African CFA Franc	25,405.70 VND Vietnamese Dong
878.36 ARS Argentine Peso	0.00 XCD East Caribbean Dollar	0.00 GTQ Guatemalan Quetzal	10.06 MAD Moroccan Dirham	0.00 BHD Bahrain Dinar	1.00 PAB Panamanian Balboa
1.70 AZN Azerbaijan Manat	3,920.00 COP Colombian Peso	88.42 KGS Kyrgyzstan Som	362.00 HUF Hungarian Forint	10.89 TJS Tajikistan Ruble	16,073.70 IDR Indonesian Rupiah
47.95 EGP Egyptian Pound	1,358.84 KRW South Korean Won	7,456.52 PYG Paraguayan Guaraní	4.74 MYR Malaysian Ringgit	508.31 CRC Costa Rican Colón	1.67 NZD New Zealand Dollar
277.87 PKR Pakistani Rupee	91.39 RUB Russian Rouble	18.51 ZAR South African Rand	3.13 TND Tunisian Dinar	0.00 BBD Barbadian Dollar	1.82 BGN Bulgarian Lev
32.33 TRY Turkish Lira	57.28 PHP Philippine Peso	32.31 TWD New Taiwan Dollar	1,164.84 NGN Nigerian Naira	0.00 XPF CFP Franc	0.00 GHS Ghanaian Cedi
0.00 JMD Jamaican Dollar	0.00 ANG Neth. Antillean Guilder	0.00 BND Brunei Dollar	108.90 RSD Serbian Dinar	7.24 CNY Chinese Yuan	6.94 DKK Danish Krone
3.49 TMT New Turkmenistan Manat	83.42 INR Indian Rupee

Exchange Rate for
Euro to U.S. Dollar

1 EUR = 1.07 USD

Exchange Rate for
Canadian Dollar to U.S. Dollar

1 CAD = 0.73 USD

Exchange Rate for
U.K. Pound Sterling to U.S. Dollar

1 GBP = 1.26 USD

Exchange Rate for
Australian Dollar to U.S. Dollar

1 AUD = 0.66 USD

Exchange Rate for
New Zealand Dollar to U.S. Dollar

1 NZD = 0.60 USD

Exchange Rate for
South African Rand to U.S. Dollar

1 ZAR = 0.05 USD

Airports in Vermont

Burlington International Airport (BTV)
Burlington International Airport
http://www.btv.aero

Location: Burlington The airport is located three miles (5km) east of Burlington.

Time: GMT -5 (GMT -4 from mid-March to the first Sunday in November).

Contacts: Tel: +1 802 863 2874.

Getting to the city: The airport is connected to Burlington and neighbouring areas by the Chittenden County Transportation Authority's Circular Route 12. Greyhound offers bus services, while car rental and taxi services are also available.

Car rental: Major car hire agencies represented at the airport include Alamo, Avis, Dollar, Enterprise, Budget, Hertz and National.

Airport Taxis: Taxis are available from the airport. Meters start at $2.50, and charge $2.50 per mile. The minimum fare is $7.50, with an airport surcharge of $4 and an additional $1 levied per extra passenger. Uber and Lyft are available.

Facilities: The airport has a yoga studio, a rooftop garden, private rooms for nursing mothers, local food outlets, ATMs, information desks, an Airport history photo exhibit and children's activities. In addition to many relaxing areas, there is also an Observation Tower where travellers can sit back, relax and watch as planes take off against the beautiful backdrop.

Parking: A multi-level covered parking area offers long and short-term parking. Parking is charged at $1 for the first hour and $2 per hour for the next three hours. A daily rate of $12 is charged after four hours.

Burlington

Situated in Chittenden County, Burlington is Vermont's biggest city and a lively and creative university town with a growing tech industry. Ideally located on Lake Champlain's eastern shore between the Adirondack and Green Mountains, the city contains galleries, museums, historic architecture, top-class shopping and a host of outdoor activities.

Originally one of the leading ports in the country, with steamboat traffic on the lake boosting the local economy, the city was also the site of an important military hospital and army post during the War of 1812. Burlington continues to be one of the USA's top cities to live in, and has a friendly, college-town atmosphere drawing millions of visitors a year.

Attractions in Burlington include historic sites, food and craft markets, lake cruises and chocolate shops. The city has a beautiful riverside setting and its surrounding landscapes invite all kinds of outdoor recreation. As one would expect from a city that is home to tens of thousands of students, Burlington has a vibrant nightlife, undoubtedly the best in Vermont, making it a fun destination for youngsters in search of a party atmosphere. The village of Shelburne, which has essentially become part of Burlington as the city expands, is a hotspot for tourists, and the well-loved ski resort of Stowe is only a short drive away.

Getting around in Burlington

Burlington is a pedestrian-friendly city that is easy to negotiate on foot. Walking is also the best way to enjoy the beauty of the city and its surrounds. Car rental agencies are available in the city and at the Burlington Airport. Traffic is heavy at peak hours. The Green Mountain Transit (GMT) runs the public bus system and buses tend to be reliable and affordable; Lyft and Uber are available. Hiring a bicycle is also a good option, particularly if visitors takes advantage of the Burlington Bike Path situated on the picturesque waterfront.

Climate in Burlington

Burlington's climate is moderate in comparison to the rest of the state, with temperatures modified by Lake Champlain. Winters (December to February) are cold with snowfall, while summers (June to August) are warm and humid. The city is one of the cloudiest in the country, and rainfall occurs throughout the year, although August tends to be the wettest month. Snowfall is common, and averages 85 inches (216cm) per year. Temperatures in Burlington range from an average minimum of 10F (-12C) in January to an average maximum of 81F (27C) in July. Festival season picks up during May to October, as do temperatures, making this time of year particularly pleasant.

Sightseeing in Burlington

Burlington has many identities: a historic early American city, a vibrant college town, a lakeside holiday resort, and an important commercial centre. With all these features, it's easy to see why Burlington is such a well-loved holiday destination.

Perched on the shore of Lake Champlain, many popular attractions and activities revolve around the tranquil lake. Kayaking, sailing, water skiing, dinner cruises, and other pursuits are a great way to enjoy Burlington's summer weather. The waterfront area is surprisingly non-commercial, and is home to bike paths, the Leahy Center for Lake Champlain, and a promenade perfect for enjoying sunset views.

An excellent way to make the most of the city's beautiful views is to hire a bicycle and follow the Waterfront Bike Path, a seven-and-a-half-mile (12km) route that runs from Oakledge Park at the southern end of town to the northern end at the beautiful Winooski River.

Historic Burlington can be explored through a few excellent museums, including the Ethan Allen Homestead, the Fleming Museum of Art, and the Shelburne Museum, nine miles (14.5km) south of Burlington.

Downtown Burlington is a vibrant area full of shops, cafes, bars and restaurants; the heart of which is the Church Street Marketplace. In good weather the square is filled with buskers and street performers, food and craft vendors, and most of the town's population.

Burlington Attractions

Ethan Allen Homestead and Museum

Ethan Allen's Homestead
Photo credit: Doc Searls

In capturing Fort Ticonderoga during the Revolutionary War, and as a militia leader, Ethan Allen secured his position as a folk hero and founder of Vermont. A man of many talents, he was a statesman, philosopher and deist, publishing Reason the Only Oracle of Man. Visitors to the homestead can wander through the faithfully restored 18th-century home and gardens. The house itself is a small frame house built in the Cape Cod style, existing for many years in complete obscurity. In addition to historical interest, the house's grounds provide lovely trails for hiking and picnicking.

Website: http://www.ethanallenhomestead.org

Lake Champlain Chocolates

Lake Champlain Chocolates encompasses a handful of dedicated shops and a factory. Indeed, what could be more tempting than the thought of delicious, handmade chocolates and the chance to enjoy free samples. The line of chocolates and other products produced at the factory includes the famous truffles, caramels, hot chocolate, Five Star Bars, organic chocolates and novelties. Lake Champlain Chocolates are all made on location in small batches where visitors can see how they're made and enjoy the tastes and aromas at the factory.

Website: http://www.lakechamplainchocolates.com

Ben and Jerry's Ice Cream Factory

Travellers can enjoy a trip out to the Ben and Jerry's Factory in Waterbury and get a chance to see how the famous treats are made and sample their mouth-watering flavours. Tours include a short documentary on its history, a trip to the factory floor to observe the ice cream production and finally a sampling of the flavour of the day. During summer, visitors can stroll through the cow pasture and can also bring a picnic along to enjoy on the picturesque grounds. It is worth noting that ice cream is only produced from Monday to Friday, so on weekends, a short movie is screened instead.

Website: http://www.benjerry.com

Airports in Burlington

Burlington International Airport (BTV)
Burlington International Airport
http://www.btv.aero

Location: Burlington The airport is located three miles (5km) east of Burlington.

Time: GMT -5 (GMT -4 from mid-March to the first Sunday in November).

Contacts: Tel: +1 802 863 2874.

Car rental: Major car hire agencies represented at the airport include Alamo, Avis, Dollar, Enterprise, Budget, Hertz and National.

Montpelier

Though it is the capital of Vermont, Montpelier is a tiny town with fewer than 8,000 permanent residents. The small, compact nature of the capital is an advantage for travellers, who can explore most of the highlights on foot. These include the pretty downtown area, which is the touristic hub of Montpelier, where a variety of parks, markets and theatres as well as the historic gold-domed Vermont State House and Historical Society Museum await.

Though small, Montpelier has dozens of shops, restaurants and pubs for visitors to amuse themselves in. Several academic institutions, including the Vermont College of Fine Arts, ensure an abundance of bookshops and a buzzing nightlife.

Burlington is the busiest tourist centre in Vermont, and the largest city, but this charming little capital holds its own. It contains some quaint inns and guesthouses, and makes a great base from which to explore the rest of Vermont. It is near to the heart of Vermont ski country, and visitors can sample freshly made goodies from the nearby Cabot Creamery or Morse Farm Sugar Works while exploring the countryside.

Vermont Ski Resorts

Mount Killington, Vermont
Photo credit: Briancua

Vermont experiences heavy snowfall in winter, creating excellent downhill and cross-country skiing opportunities, drawing both local and international snowlovers. Vermont has a number of popular ski resorts such as Stowe, Killington, Sugarbush, Jay Peak, Mad River Glen, Okemo and Stratton.

The snow season is extended at some of the resorts, most notably Killington, by world-class snowmaking systems but it's generally possible to ski in Vermont from mid-October until as late in the year as June. Furthermore, many of the resorts stay open in summer and offer a range of activities.

Killington Ski Resort in central Vermont is one of the country's largest ski areas, and generally in the top ten for popularity and annual visitors. Sugarbush Resort also offers extensive ski trails and slopes, and Jay Peak offers excellent off-piste options. Visitors flock from neighbouring Canada, Boston and New York, and around the world.

Vermont Attractions

Overview

In recent years, Vermont has attracted about 15 million travellers annually. The majority of these visitors are domestic tourists from other US states, and visitors from neighbouring Canada. But the loyal droves of domestic tourists are the best possible advertisement for this New England state, where the long ski season, unspoilt landscapes and small, vibrant urban centres promise wonderful holiday diversions.

Vermont's ski resorts are hugely popular: Killington is the biggest and has a frenetic nightlife that delights younger visitors, Jay Peak has a diverse offering of trails and slopes, and Stowe is part modern ski resort and part quaint heritage hub, appealing to lovers of both snow and culture.

But despite the considerable draw of the slopes, Vermont's peak tourism season is summer, when a plethora of scenic and cultural attractions occupy visitors. The state is an outdoor activity paradise when the snow dries up, with wilderness areas such as the vast Green Mountain National Forest and Smugglers' Notch State Park promising extensive camping grounds, view points and hiking trails. Lake Champlain, a sprawling body of water that lies mostly in Vermont, attracts boaters, kayakers, and sailors as well as nature lovers keen to explore the wildlife reserves that enshrine the lakeshore.

Cultural highlights include the renowned Shelburne Museum, the quirky Fairbanks Museum and Planetarium, and the Marsh-Billings-Rockefeller National Historic Park, which provides insight into Vermont's proud agricultural heritage. Speaking of agriculture, Vermont is a joy for foodies, especially lovers of fresh produce and artisanal products. The state is the maple syrup hub of the US and celebrated for its chocolates, the famous Ben and Jerry's Ice cream brand and divine cheese varieties.

There are some wonderful farmers markets in the state, arguably the best of which are Brattleboro Farmers' Market and the Champlain Valley Fair. Those planning to eat their way around the state should try out the Vermont Cheese Trail and perhaps wash it down at the widely celebrated Vermont Brewers' Festival.