The Best Things to Do on a Road Trip from Kingston, NY to Hartford, VT
The road trip from Kingston, New York to Hartford, Vermont is a beautiful journey that takes travelers through lush forests, scenic mountain ranges, quaint towns, and picturesque countryside. This road trip covers approximately 200 miles and can be completed in about 4 hours. The halfway point is in Bennington, VT, a charming town with a rich history and plenty of attractions to explore.
1. Visit the Woodstock Farm Sanctuary
Located just 45 minutes from Kingston, the Woodstock Farm Sanctuary is a must-visit destination for animal lovers. This sanctuary provides a safe haven for rescued farm animals and offers guided tours that allow visitors to get up close and personal with cows, pigs, chickens, and other animals. The sanctuary's mission is to promote kindness and compassion towards animals and to raise awareness about the cruelties of factory farming.
Fun Fact: The Woodstock Farm Sanctuary is home to over 400 rescued animals and has been in operation since 2004.
2. Experience the Beauty of Quechee Gorge
Quechee Gorge is a stunning natural wonder located in Quechee, VT, just 20 minutes from Hartford. This gorge was created by glacial activity over 13,000 years ago and is now a popular attraction for hiking, picnicking, and sightseeing. Visitors can take a short hike to the base of the gorge or walk across the bridge to take in the breathtaking views from above.
Fun Fact: At 165 feet deep, Quechee Gorge is Vermont's deepest gorge and is often referred to as the "Little Grand Canyon."
3. Explore the Vermont Country Store
The Vermont Country Store is a unique shopping destination located in Weston, VT, about an hour and a half from Kingston. This store has been in operation for over 70 years and offers a wide variety of items, including vintage toys, local cheeses, handmade crafts, and quirky household items. Visitors can also sample delicious maple syrup and fudge and take a break in the rocking chairs on the store's front porch.
Fun Fact: The Vermont Country Store was recognized as one of the "10 Best Country Stores in America" by USA Today.
4. Take a Scenic Drive on Route 100
Route 100 is a scenic byway that winds through the Green Mountains of Vermont and offers stunning views of the fall foliage and snow-capped mountains. This road stretches for over 200 miles and passes through charming towns, quaint villages, and beautiful natural landscapes. Drivers should plan to take their time and make plenty of stops along the way to fully appreciate the beauty of this route.
Fun Fact: Route 100 is considered one of the most scenic drives in New England and was named the "Best Fall Foliage Drive in America" by Yankee Magazine.
5. Visit the Bennington Battle Monument
The Bennington Battle Monument is a historic landmark located in Bennington, VT, just over halfway between Kingston and Hartford. This monument was built in 1891 to commemorate the Battle of Bennington, a significant battle in the American Revolution. Visitors can take an elevator to the top of the monument for panoramic views of the surrounding countryside and learn about the history of the battle in the museum at the base of the monument.
Fun Fact: The Bennington Battle Monument stands at 306 feet tall, making it the tallest structure in Vermont.
Overall, the road trip from Kingston, NY to Hartford, VT is a journey that offers a perfect blend of nature, history, and culture. With stops at the Woodstock Farm Sanctuary, Quechee Gorge, the Vermont Country Store, Route 100, and the Bennington Battle Monument, travelers will have plenty of opportunities to explore the beauty and diversity of this region. The trip takes approximately 4 hours and can be completed in a day or stretched out over a longer period for a more relaxed experience.