The Best Things to do on a Road Trip from Amherst, Massachusetts to Middlebury, Vermont

Amherst, Massachusetts, and Middlebury, Vermont are two beautiful towns located in northeastern United States. The close proximity of these two towns makes it an ideal road trip destination for travelers seeking a scenic drive through the countryside dotted with small towns, covered bridges, and picturesque farmland. The journey takes approximately 3 hours, making it an ideal weekend getaway. One of the highlights of this road trip is the halfway point in Chester, Vermont, which is known for its beautiful 19th-century architecture.

Top 5 Things to Do

1. Visit the Ben & Jerry's Factory

The famous Vermont-based ice cream company is a must-visit during a road trip through Middlebury. The factory tour offers visitors a behind-the-scenes look at how their favorite ice cream is made. After the tour, visitors can enjoy a scoop or two of their favorite flavors in the on-site scoop shop.

Interesting Fact: Ben & Jerry's was founded in 1978 by two childhood friends, Ben Cohen and Jerry Greenfield, with a $12,000 investment.

2. Explore Quechee Gorge

Quechee Gorge is one of Vermont's most stunning natural attractions, with a 165-foot-deep gorge that's as breathtaking as it is awe-inspiring. The gorge offers visitors several hiking trails and plenty of scenic overlooks where they can capture stunning photos of the surrounding landscape.

Interesting Fact: Quechee Gorge was formed over 13,000 years ago during the Ice Age when a glacier caused a huge rift in the rock.

3. Tour the Shelburne Museum

The Shelburne Museum is a unique museum that's home to a vast collection of Americana and art. The museum features more than 150,000 objects on display, ranging from impressionist paintings to folk art and textiles. Visitors can spend hours exploring the museum's 45 acres of exhibit space and beautiful gardens.

Interesting Fact: The Shelburne Museum was founded in 1947 by Electra Havemeyer Webb, who was passionate about preserving America's cultural heritage.

4. Visit Billings Farm & Museum

Billings Farm & Museum is a working dairy farm located in Woodstock, Vermont. Visitors can watch cows being milked, learn about the history of farming, and explore the farm's exhibits, which showcase the many facets of life on a farm. The museum also offers several educational programs for children and adults.

Interesting Fact: The Billings family, who owned the farm, were avid collectors of art and antiques, and much of their collection is displayed in the farmhouse.

5. Go hiking in Green Mountain National Forest

Green Mountain National Forest is a vast wilderness area located in southern Vermont. It offers visitors plenty of opportunities for outdoor recreation, including hiking, camping, fishing, and hunting. The forest is home to several scenic trails, including the Long Trail, which is the oldest hiking trail in the country.

Interesting Fact: Green Mountain National Forest covers more than 400,000 acres and is home to a variety of wildlife, including black bears, moose, and beavers.

Conclusion

The road trip from Amherst, Massachusetts to Middlebury, Vermont is a breathtaking adventure that takes visitors through some of the most beautiful landscapes in the country. With its small towns, covered bridges, and picturesque farmland, this route is a favorite among road trippers. Visitors can stop at the Ben & Jerry's Factory, Quechee Gorge, the Shelburne Museum, Billings Farm & Museum, and Green Mountain National Forest. The journey takes approximately 3 hours, making it an ideal weekend getaway for travelers looking to escape the hustle and bustle of city life.