Points of Interest between Buffalo, New York to Waterbury, Vermont

picture of Buffalo, New York

Five Unexpected Places to Stop on a Drive from Buffalo, NY to Waterbury, VT

Taking a road trip from Buffalo, NY to Waterbury, VT can be a picturesque journey, with beautiful stretches of landscape in upstate New York and Vermont. This road trip route, which is 443 miles long, takes about eight hours to complete, but it's worth the ride. Along the way, you will come across all sorts of unexpected places, from small-town charm to hidden gems. Here are five must-see places to visit on your trip.

Halfway Point: Holland Patent, NY

Before diving into the complete journey, it's worth mentioning the halfway point: Holland Patent, NY. Holland Patent is home to picturesque landscapes and a charming village center that's worth taking a pit stop. You can also visit Holland Patent Historical Society's Olde Towne Museum to learn about the town's important historical contribution.

1. Sterling Renaissance Festival, Sterling, NY

If you're visiting during summer (July to August), the Sterling Renaissance Festival is a must-stop place. This festival brings medieval times alive by recreating the 16th-century architecture, gastronomy, and music. The festival offers jugglers, jousting tournaments, and a flea circus, which is sure to leave you entertained.

Foodie Tip: Give your taste buds a treat picking up a 'Ye Olde Scorpion' Spicy burger.

2. Aurora Shoe Company, Aurora, NY

One of the most unexpected and unique places to visit on your journey is Aurora Shoe Company in Aurora, NY. This company has been crafting men's and women's footwear since the 1990s. Each shoe is handmade in the shop, with raw materials sourced in the USA. The best part - you can visit their workshop store, watch them create shoes, and purchase handmade shoes on the spot.

Foodie Tip: Snack on the shop's homemade chocolate chip cookies while browsing the exhibit.

3. Ariel's Restaurant, Brookfield, VT

All the traveling tends to work up an appetite, and that's where Ariel's Restaurant comes in. Nestled in the quaint town of Brookfield, VT, this restaurant specializes in farm-to-table cuisine and serves up some of the best seafood around. They prioritize locally sourced and organic ingredients, so you know it's fresh. You can enjoy a picturesque dinner inside or outside the restaurant overlooking the trout pond.

Foodie Tip: Try their New England Clam Chowder to warm up after a cold windy day.

4. Ben & Jerry's Ice Cream Factory, Waterbury, VT

No visit to Waterbury is complete without stopping at the famous Ben & Jerry's Ice Cream Factory. This is the spot where Ben and Jerry's started it all, and now it's your turn to see where their delicious creations are made. There are tours, ice cream sundae shops, and a gift shop with all sorts of memorabilia to pick up souvenirs.

Foodie Tip: Grab a scoop or two of your favorite flavor.

The T.W. Wood Gallery and Arts Center in Montpelier, VT, features works by American artists such as Thomas Waterman Wood, the founder of the Vermont College Fine Arts program. In addition, it also features pieces featuring other local artists, and it's a great place to explore art and local culture in VT.

Foodie Tip: Visit Sweet Melissa's in Montpelier for some delicious treats and coffee.

Conclusion

In conclusion, taking a drive from Buffalo, NY to Waterbury, VT is a beautiful journey filled with surprises. Holland Patent, NY serves as the perfect midpoint to take a break, and there are plenty of unexpected stops to be discovered along the way. Sterling Renaissance Festival, Aurora Shoe Company, Ariel’s Restaurant, Ben & Jerry's Ice Cream Factory, and T.W. Wood Gallery are sure to add character to your trip and leave you with memories that you'll cherish for a lifetime. Go Ahead, and give this road trip a chance; who knows what you stumble upon?