Vermont, situated in the northeastern region of the United States, is renowned for its vibrant green scenery, picturesque mountains, and undulating hills. During autumn, its woodlands attract a large number of visitors eager to witness the transformation of the forest foliage.
Enthusiasts of outdoor activities gravitate towards this area for opportunities such as hiking, dirt biking, and skiing. Vermont presents a plethora of experiences for travelers.
Lesser-known towns and cities, tucked away like hidden gems, provide excellent choices for those seeking to soak in Vermont’s natural beauty and explore something new.
These less-celebrated cities can be incredibly captivating, offering a glimpse into a fresh locale without the bustling crowds associated with tourist-heavy areas. Here are five of Vermont’s most underappreciated cities that warrant a second glance.
Rutland City
Rutland City, located in central Vermont, is home to approximately 16,000 residents. This historic city is renowned for its vibrant arts, culture, and community gatherings.
The city is graced with natural beauty and notable landmarks in its vicinity. Rutland’s downtown area holds a wealth of historical significance. Art enthusiasts will find plenty to admire in the city’s thriving artistic community. The Vermont Farmers Market and the Friday Night Live concert series are among the favored local attractions.
For those inclined towards outdoor pursuits, Rutland City provides easy access to stunning landscapes. Pine Hill Park caters to mountain biking enthusiasts, while hikers may find the Long Trail more to their liking.
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Montpelier
Montpelier, the capital of Vermont, has earned acclaim as one of the finest small art towns in the United States. The city places a strong emphasis on fostering arts, music, and culture. The Savoy Arts Cinema is a popular destination, while concerts and theatrical performances are frequently held at venues like the Lost Nation Theater.
For history and architecture enthusiasts, Montpelier boasts several notable and awe-inspiring historic structures. Among them, the meticulously restored Vermont Statehouse stands as a prominent symbol.
Originally constructed in 1859 in the Greek Revival style, it features an impressive gold-domed roof and houses a valuable collection of fine art.
Nature lovers can relish the scenic beauty of the Winooski River, which gracefully meanders along the outskirts of downtown. Additionally, Hubbard Park offers a blend of meadows, woodlands, and groves of birch trees for visitors to explore.
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Newport
Newport, located on Lake Memphremagog, spans the border of Vermont and Quebec, Canada. It boasts a delightful downtown with an array of shops, eateries, coffee shops, and art galleries. The waterfront park provides picturesque vistas of the lake and serves as a venue for various events including concerts and festivals year-round.
Furthermore, Newport is proud to house the MAC Center for the Arts, a hub for exhibiting local talents in both visual and performing arts. It serves as an excellent starting point for immersing oneself in the unspoiled natural wonders of the Northeast Kingdom, renowned for its pristine woodlands, lakes, and mountains.
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Burlington
Burlington, Vermont’s largest city, exudes a small-town charm and a relaxed atmosphere. Situated on Lake Champlain, it provides breathtaking views of the Adirondack Mountains across the water.
Renowned for its lively arts and culture scene, Burlington boasts venues like the Flynn Center for Performing Arts, Higher Ground Music Hall, Burlington City Arts Center, and more.
Throughout the year, the city hosts various festivals, including the Burlington Discover Jazz Festival, Festival of Fools, Art Hop, Winter Lights Festival, and others.
For food enthusiasts, Burlington is a haven, offering a diverse range of restaurants with local and international fare. The city strongly emphasizes sustainability and social justice, evident in its numerous farmers markets, co-ops, community gardens, bike paths, and eco-friendly initiatives.
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Winooski
Winooski, a petite city nestled along the banks of the Winooski River, directly opposite Burlington, boasts a diverse and multicultural population that enriches its lively and dynamic atmosphere. The downtown area thrives with a pedestrian-only rotary adorned with an array of shops, eateries, bars, and cafes.
This city also houses several cultural gems, including the Winooski Falls Mill District, an historic site that honors the city’s industrial legacy. Additionally, Winooski is home to the Community College of Vermont and the Vermont Student Assistance Corporation, solidifying its status as an educational and career advancement hub.
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Final Words
Vermont is a state that caters to a wide range of interests, be it nature, culture, history, or cuisine. It boasts several overlooked cities, each possessing its own distinct allure and personality. Rutland City, Montpelier, Newport, Burlington, and Winooski stand out as some of Vermont’s hidden gems, well worth exploring.
These cities exemplify the finest aspects of Vermont – its scenic beauty, cultural diversity, and creative spirit. They also serve as wonderful hubs to immerse oneself in the warm, open-minded, and forward-thinking local communities. A visit to these cities offers travelers a chance to uncover an unexpected and delightful facet of Vermont.
