Five Unexpected Places to Stop on a Drive from Burlington, Vermont to Orford, New Hampshire

The drive from Burlington, Vermont to Orford, New Hampshire can be a long and beautiful journey. Along the way, drivers will be treated to stunning views of the Green Mountains in Vermont and the White Mountains in New Hampshire. The journey takes only two hours and thirty minutes, but it's worth taking the time to stop and explore the charming towns and stunning scenery along the way.

Halfway Point: Montpelier, VT

Montpelier, the capital of Vermont, makes a perfect halfway point to rest and explore. The city center is full of unique shops, restaurants, and cafes. You can also take a tour of the Vermont State Capitol, which is considered one of the most beautiful statehouses in the country. Montpelier is a must-stop location on any trip between Burlington, Vermont and Orford, New Hampshire.

1. The Morse Maple Farm

As you head eastwards towards Orford, the first stop should be the Morse Maple Farm, located in Montpelier, Vermont. This family-run farm has been producing pure maple syrup for nearly 200 years. The farm owners welcome visitors to taste their maple syrup and experience the maple-making process. Their syrup is perfect for pancakes, waffles, and French toast.

Food Recommendation: Maple candy - made from pure maple syrup, this candy is a local favorite.

2. The Cabot Creamery Annex

Continuing east on Highway 302, the next stop is the Cabot Creamery Annex in Waterbury, Vermont. The annex is a retail store that sells award-winning cheese and other local specialty products. Visitors can taste any of the more than 50 varieties of cheese made in the factory located just a few miles away.

Food Recommendation: Cabot Cheddar Cheese - a signature Vermont cheese that impresses even the most discerning cheese connoisseurs.

3. The Cold Hollow Cider Mill

Driving further east, drivers can't miss the Cold Hollow Cider Mill located in Waterbury Center, Vermont. This historic mill has been a popular stop since it opened in 1974 and offers a variety of apple-based products, including cider, cider donuts, and apple pies. The mill also provides tours showing the cider-making process.

Food Recommendation: Cider Donuts - these handmade treats are known throughout New England for their light and fluffy texture.

4. The Franconia Notch State Park

Driving into New Hampshire, travelers must stop at the Franconia Notch State Park. This park offers stunning views of the White Mountains with a network of trails, overlooks, and picnic areas. Visitors can hike up to Kinsman Falls, visit the Flume Gorge, or ride the aerial tramway to the top of Cannon Mountain.

Food Recommendation: The Park's Picnic Area - pack a picnic to enjoy on one of the park's scenic picnic spots.

5. The Frost Place

The Frost Place, located in Franconia, New Hampshire is the former home of Robert Frost, one of America's beloved poets. The home has been turned into a museum honoring Frost's legacy. Visitors can tour the house and then explore the surrounding areas, which have inspired many of Frost's poems.

Food Recommendation: The Frost Place's Garden - visitors are welcome to relax in the garden to reflect on Frost's poetry.

Conclusion

Embarking on a road trip from Burlington, Vermont to Orford, New Hampshire, offers travelers an opportunity to experience some of the most scenic landmarks and most historically rich locations of the Northeast United States. From maple syrup farms to scenic state parks and historic landmarks, visitors can experience a wide array of attractions that provide an authentic perspective of life in New England. So, there's no better time to hit the road and explore these beautiful locations and indulge in their signature local delicacies.