Discovering Vermont: Scenic Drive and Family Memories

Vermont is indeed a gem waiting to be discovered. The drive from Bucks County, PA to the Burlington area offers breathtaking views of the changing landscapes, from the lush greenery of Pennsylvania to the rolling hills and picturesque farms of upstate New York. Traveling with my parents always fills me with a sense of adventure and a desire to uncover hidden treasures in every place we visit. It’s incredible how many charming towns and natural wonders are within a manageable driving distance from home. In my adulting era, I’ve come to deeply appreciate the value of quality time with family and the creation of lasting memories. The month of May treated us to a delightful mix of refreshing morning breezes and sun-kissed days, providing the perfect backdrop for our explorations in this enchanting region.

When we were planning out trip, we knew we wanted to be in the Burlington area. It is known for its stunning scenery and vibrant community. After looking at the houses to rent in the area we found one in St. Albans, a charming town with a rich history and a welcoming atmosphere. If we are visiting somewhere that is near the water, we like being on the water, surrounded by tranquility and the calming sounds of nature. We had found a place on the lake, offering breathtaking views and a sense of serenity that we had longed for. The sunsets were amazing, painting the sky with brilliant hues of orange, pink, and gold. These were photos from two doors down from the rental, capturing the essence of lakeside living. When we have a house, we are able to cook and relax when not exploring, creating a sense of home away from home amidst the picturesque surroundings.

I don’t have any photos of where we stayed, but across the street was a good place to eat. We got multiple meals from here. At the time of writing this, it looks like the VRBO that we stayed at isn’t a rental anymore. Bayside Pavilion, which is the restaurant across the street always had a pleasant atmosphere, and we delighted in trying their diverse menu. Not only did we enjoy their delicious meals, but we also the friendly service and the opportunity to immerse ourselves in the local culinary scene. Although it’s unfortunate that the VRBO is no longer available for rental, we feel grateful to have had the chance to experience it during our stay.

Vermont Maple Outlet

When you travel to Vermont, the options for acquiring maple syrup are as plentiful as the autumn leaves. We marveled at the scenic maple groves stretching across the hills, and it seemed nearly impossible for us to resist the temptation of visiting a local sugarhouse. Vermont Maple Outlet was not actively processing syrup during our visit. Nevertheless, the bottles we eventually acquired had a rich, authentic flavor that encapsulated the essence of Vermont’s maple tradition.

Trapp Family Lodge

One of the reasons we wanted to head to the Burlington area of Vermont was to visit Trapp Family Lodge, known for its stunning views and rich history. Since we were in Stowe during the off season, I was able to explore the main lodge and take in the picturesque surroundings. As I wandered through the lodge, I couldn’t help but marvel at the charming decor and the cozy atmosphere. The walls adorned with captivating photos provided a fascinating glimpse into the Von Trapp Family history, making the visit even more memorable. Being a fan of The Sound of Music, I found the experience particularly captivating, as it offered a deeper connection to the beloved story and its real-life inspiration.

von Trapp Brewing

Since we were near von Trapp Brewing during the lunch time, we decided to have lunch there. It is a beautiful space and we sat in the back that over looked the disc golf course. As a gluten free pescatarian, it was a limited menu for me, but I was able to eat their yummy food. Their portions were large and we had lots of leftovers from my parents platter. The atmosphere of the brewery was relaxed and inviting, with an impressive view of the surrounding mountains. The staff was friendly and accommodating, making our dining experience quite enjoyable. Additionally, the selection of craft beers was extensive, offering a variety of flavors to complement a delicious meal.

Ben and Jerry’s

When in the Burlington area, a must-visit is Ben & Jerry’s, especially if you’re a fan of ice cream. My mom, for example, absolutely adores their chocolate ice cream, and going there was highlight for her. As you walk into the Ben & Jerry’s location, the vibrant and colorful posters showcasing the top 10 flavors in pints immediately catch your eye. Personally, I have yet to try all of these flavors, but the visit sparks the desire to explore new and exciting combinations. Although we didn’t have the opportunity to take a tour during our visit, I’ve heard great things about the guided tours they offer, providing a fascinating glimpse into the ice cream making process. Additionally, it’s worth noting that the staff at Ben & Jerry’s were incredibly attentive and helpful, especially when it came to assisting my parents, whose mobility is limited, from the handicap parking area to the building. Their kindness and willingness to go the extra mile truly made the experience even more enjoyable.

We enjoyed some ice cream!

There is a graveyard of flavors that they ave retired.

Hero’s Welcome General Store

One of the days on our trip, we were in the Burlington area and we explored the area with no plans. We had driven up to Canada and back to St. Albans on the other side of Lake Champlain. The scenic drive provided stunning views of the lake, with its shimmering waters reflecting the clear blue sky above. As we continued our journey, we stumbled upon Hero’s Welcome General Store, a charming and quaint establishment filled with an assortment of unique items. Although our visit was brief, the store’s eclectic collection of goods piqued our curiosity, tempting us to stay longer and explore further. It was a delightful surprise within our spontaneous adventure, adding another memorable experience to our trip.

Hyde Log Cabin

Located on Route 2 on Grand Isle is Hyde Log Cabin, a historic gem nestled in the heart of nature. While it wasn’t open to explore the interiors during our visit, we had the opportunity to take a leisurely stroll around the well-preserved grounds and admire the charming exterior of the cabin. The off-season visit worked in our favor, offering us the luxury of soaking in the serene ambiance with the entire area to ourselves. As we wandered through the surrounding landscape, we couldn’t help but appreciate the rustic beauty and tranquility that this hidden gem had to offer.

Grand Isle Schoolhouse #4

Located on the grounds of Hyde log cabin is Grand Isle Schoolhouse #4.

St. Albans Farmer’s Market

When traveling, I love shopping local. Whether it is at a farmer’s market, local store, or artisan fair, I have fun exploring and finding new companies and products. Our trip to Vermont was in May, so we were thrilled to discover that the Northwest Farmer’s Market in St. Albans was happening during our visit. It was a delightful experience immersing ourselves in the local culture and discovering unique crafts and culinary delights. I particularly enjoyed browsing the stands of Branons Barrywilde Maples and Brave Little Spice Company, where I found exceptional maple products and artisanal spices that added a special touch to our home-cooked meals. My parents were excited that they had fresh maple donuts. Exploring the market and interacting with the passionate vendors added a whole new dimension to our travel experience, creating cherished memories that will stay with us for years to come.