The Best Things to Do on a Road Trip from City of Ithaca, New York and Barre City, Vermont
Are you looking for a fun road trip from Ithaca, New York to Barre City, Vermont? Look no further! This route is full of exciting adventures and breathtaking scenery. The drive is approximately 230 miles and takes about 4 hours and 30 minutes. The halfway point is Clifton Park, NY, where you can take a break and grab a bite to eat. Here are the top five things to do on this road trip:
1. Visit Taughannock Falls State Park
Taughannock Falls State Park is a must-visit destination on this road trip. It is located just a 15-minute drive from Ithaca, New York. The park offers stunning panoramic views, picnic areas, and hiking trails. The highlight of the park is the Taughannock Falls, which cascades 215 feet down the gorge. The falls is one of the highest single-drop waterfalls east of the Rocky Mountains.
2. Tour the Ben and Jerry's Factory
Who doesn't love ice cream? A tour of the Ben and Jerry's Factory is a fun activity for the whole family. It is located in Waterbury, Vermont, about an hour and a half drive from Barre City. You'll learn about the history of Ben and Jerry's and see how they make their famous ice cream. The best part is the sample at the end of the tour!
3. Hike Mount Mansfield
Mount Mansfield is the tallest mountain in Vermont, reaching over 4,300 feet. It is located in Stowe, Vermont, about an hour's drive from Barre City. Hiking to the summit is a popular activity, and it offers stunning views of the surrounding landscape. The Long Trail runs along the summit ridge, which is part of the Appalachian Trail. It's a challenging hike, but well worth the effort.
4. Explore the Shelburne Museum
The Shelburne Museum is a unique museum that features art, history, and Americana. It is located in Shelburne, Vermont, about an hour's drive from Barre City. The museum is spread out over 45 acres and includes 39 buildings. Each building is a exhibit in itself, showcasing folk art, quilts, furniture, and much more. The highlight of the museum is the Steamboat Ticonderoga, which is a National Historic Landmark.
5. Take a Dip in Lake Champlain
Lake Champlain is a natural beauty and a great place to cool off on a hot day. It is located on the border between Vermont and New York, about an hour drive from Barre City. The lake has a surface area of over 120,000 acres and offers a variety of recreational activities, such as swimming, boating, and fishing. The best beaches to visit are North Beach in Burlington, Vermont or Ausable Point Beach in New York.
Along the way, there are many other interesting places to visit, such as Saratoga Springs in New York, which is known for its mineral springs and horse racing. In addition, the Adirondack Park in New York offers a stunning natural landscape for hiking and camping.
To summarize, this road trip from Ithaca, New York to Barre City, Vermont is a fantastic adventure that offers something for everyone. The destinations along the way provide breathtaking views, education, and relaxation. And, of course, there's no better way to end a long day of adventuring than with a scoop of ice cream from Ben and Jerry's!