My Vermont "Bucket List" is Growing!!!

[ctyanky]

Hello everyone! Just finished hours of scraping ice off the walks, car and driveway from our mega ice storm yesterday! I've now settled down, nice and cozy but exhausted (this winter UGH ), and thinking as always of the planning stages of my next Vermont adventure! There is sooooo much to do and see in Vermont, sometimes even I overwhelm myself. As I am driven by activities in my endless quest for fun and adventure, I've added to my bucket list some places that I have always wanted to go to. I love being busy 24/7 when I'm up in Vermont and here are a few more additions! If you have ever been to these places, feel free to add your impressions, or even add to the bucket list yourself. I may add some more as they come across my itinerary. Because I live so close to VT, I sometimes make a day trip (albeit a VERY long day of driving) to add these places to my long list of amazing adventures in the great state of Vermont!

1. MERCK FOREST AND FARMLAND CENTER, RUPERT

http://www.merckforest.org/

This place looks enchanting!!! The Visitor Center, the Farm, the Forest. Why have I not been here yet? I just love their mission statement. I saw Merck Forest on so many websites and acclaimed on tripadvisor for it's sheer natural beauty. I see they are also on the Vermont Maple Sugaring Open House Weekend.

2. KING ARTHUR FLOUR, NORWICH

https://www.kingarthurflour.com/

https://www.kingarthurflour.com/visit/

Mostly everyone I've met who lives or travels to Vermont has stopped here. I'm next!!!

3. SOUTHERN VERMONT ARTS CENTER SCULPTURE PARK AND TRAILS, MANCHESTER

http://www.svac.org/cat-blog-campus/85- ... nd-gardens

i couldn't fit this in during my Manchester foliage weekend in 2017 but will be there for Columbus Day Weekend in 2018 for a longer stay. I think "Dean" from the forum, was the first person who kept posting about it years ago. It looks like a beautiful and fun place to visit. Thus, I have added it to my itin for fall and can't wait! We hope to eat at Cafe Sora!!!!

http://www.svac.org/cafe-sora

4. hmmmmmmmmmm, what's next??????

[ctyanky]

4. THE ISLANDS OF LAKE CHAMPLAIN

https://www.nytimes.com/2017/06/06/trav ... lture.html

I found this tantilizing article online last summer and was so absorbed in reading all about the islands from this author who also made this a destination for his to do list! I had saved this on my favorites and someday, hope to spend some summer time there. I know you will thoroughly enjoy reading this very charming and detailed story on everything to do and see on the islands! It was so well written and there is a ton of information for you take note of!

5. STEPHEN HUNICK'S DOG MOUNTAIN, St. Johnsbury

https://www.dogmt.com/

Every year I try to visit this unique and serene place as I am always in the area while up in the Kingdom. I'm so intrigued by the whole scenario of everything dogs as I am a faithful dog owner. However, I can just see myself crying the whole day there, especially in the chapel where I would put a note for my beloved dogs who have gone on to dog heaven. I think I would just cave in to my sorrow. I hope to get my act together and get here once and for all.

[ctyanky]

6. FARM-WAY, Inc / Vermont Gear, Bradford

You may think this a little strange to put on a "Vermont bucket list" but I've always wanted to check this place out due to the great reviews and quality items stocked there. I know so many people who have stopped there and loved it. It looks like a fun place to visit! (I'm trying to find some denim overalls like I used to wear in college and combine it with a plaid flannel shirt! My "farmer wannabee look" )

286 Waits River Road
1 mile off I-91 exit 16
Bradford VT, 05033

http://www.vermontgear.com

"Farm-Way is a true shopping adventure! We don't just sell quality gifts, footwear, clothing, saddlery, hunting and camping supplies--we are here to help you find just what you need. Our staff is knowledgeable and friendly and can help with your selection as you get ready for your next adventure. North Face, Patagonia, Canada Goose, Ibex, Smartwool, Darn Tough, Dansko, Merrell, and more. Shop Vermont tax free footwear and clothing. Explore 18 acres, plenty of room to walk the dog or park your horse trailer."

[ctyanky]

7. VERMONT STATE HOUSE, Montpelier

http://statehouse.vermont.gov/

http://statehouse.vermont.gov/tours

Every time I drive by the Vermont State House, I just relish its architectural beauty. I'm always on my way somewhere else and often wish I had made the time to stop and visit and take the tour. I really hope that when I'm in Warren this fall for a few days, that I'll make it happen. A photographer's delight in all seasons beckon you to stop here. I've seen it photographed in every season and the spring flowers (tulips!) adorn the entryway. Foliage season is breathtaking! The website is great and I've chosen their first paragraph to entice you to read on through their website! You can also take a virtual tour which is totally amazing! I need to push this one up at the top of my bucket list!

"The Vermont State House is one of the oldest and best preserved of our nation's state capitols. After nearly 160 years it remains an icon in Montpelier, the smallest capital city in America. Its House and Senate chambers are the oldest active legislative halls in the United States that have preserved their original interiors."

Hours:

Visitors are welcome:
Monday–Friday: 8 AM – 4 PM
(throughout the year)
Saturday: 11 AM – 3 PM
(July 1 – October 30 only)
Closed on Sundays & state holidays

[Utah Baker]

Ditto for me! Can’t believe it will be 20 yrs. since our first visit this fall and we’ve never taken the time to stop and go in. It would be a great place to take the grandkids to, a must do this year!

[ctyanky]

Hi Janice! Thanks for popping in here and hope you get to go to the State House! Maybe I'll see you there!

[ctyanky]

8. MOUNT INDEPENDENCE, Orwell

http://historicsites.vermont.gov/direct ... dependence

Mount Independence, a National Historic Landmark, is one of the largest and most well preserved Revolutionary War archaeological sites in America. An exceptional museum houses an exhibit using artifacts and modern technology to chronicle the story of this major defense.

9. FORT TICONDEROGA, NY (sorry just had to)

https://www.fortticonderoga.org

Here are all the reenactments /events!!!!

https://www.fortticonderoga.org/visit/s ... enactments

I especially want to take the ferry!

http://www.forttiferry.com/page2.html

The reason I added these two is that a couple of years ago, i went to the Hubbardton Battlefield and Visitor's Center and was hooked! My first experience in chasing the Vermont historic sites was at the Bennington Monument, for which I have returned numerous times. Vermont's history is amazing, I can't seem to get enough of visiting it's precious historic monuments, statues, plaques, museums and so on. If you have never been to Hubbardton, it is a step back in time. Here is my post from October, 2016 on this forum for Hubbardton.

viewtopic.php?f=1&t=3643&p=20314&hilit= ... ton#p20314

I really am going to try to get to Fort Ticonderoga when I am staying at my inn in Starkboro! So much to do!

[Utah Baker]

Hi CT! We have taken the ferry over to Ft. Ticonderoga a couple of times in our travels, you won’t be disappointed! The views looking back over the lake to Vermont are stunning! Hope you get to do it. You must check out Lake George and the fort there as well sometime ( the name eludes me this morning). Happy trails in all your adventures this summer! The photos aren’t the best, I think this was 2012.

[ctyanky]

Hi Janice: I really liked those photos. I'm going to try my best to get to Ticonderoga when I am in Starksboro. Especially now that I've seen these pictures! Thanks for posting them. My bucket list is bursting at its seams!

[ctyanky]

10. GREAT VERMONT CORN MAZE, Danville

http://www.vermontcornmaze.com/

http://www.onlyinyourstate.com/vermont/ ... n-maze-vt/

I've never been in a corn maze, can you believe it? And if I choose to try one, it will be in Vermont of course! I've been in Danville so many times and have heard through the corn vine this is the best of the best! I'm just afraid I'd be in the maze until "the cows come home" and would most likely panic! It just looks like plain old fun and a great activity to do during foliage season. I think this would be hilarious to get a group of foliage seekers together and hit the corn field!

Danville is a beautiful area with splendid back roads. I once stayed at a farm in Danville and it was a very peaceful and relaxing weekend. Of course, I would be remiss, if I didn't include the infamous Autumn on the Green foliage festival in this post! Truly one of a kind. A perfect day in autumn would be to do both of course!

https://www.facebook.com/AutumnOnTheGreen

Always the first Sunday in October, check back for updates on their site.

[ctyanky]

11. Wilderness Retreat: The Lodge at Seyon Lodge State Park, Groton

https://www.vtstateparks.com/seyon.html

This is Vermont's only full service state park nestled in the 27,000 acre Groton State Forest. Listen, if you have never been to Noyes Pond (located inside the park) in autumn you are missing one of the most beautiful scenics in the state! I've been twice and this location never ceases to mesmerize me. It is a photographer's dream with the right light and during the height of foliage season.

Now, if you are wondering why I am highlighting an accommodation on my bucket list, let me say this. First, it is part of Vermont's grand state park system which in my opinion, rivals any in the country, and second, I've ALWAYS wanted to stay here at the Lodge! I even called there last season but it was already booked up. For those of you who have come to Seyon Park, can you imagine waking up in this serene setting and having your morning coffee at the two Adirondack chairs at the pond's edge? I think this is one of the most romantic places ever and yes, it is on my bucket list. Not for this season, but possibly next autumn for a long weekend. I love it here. I felt so immersed in nature just standing at water's edge. It is almost surreal. And one of the most beautiful places I have been in Vermont.

The first time I went was with Charles (ixl) from this forum and the color was magnificent. I have fond memories of Charles romping around the lake with all of his camera equipment soaking in this little spot of paradise. Watching Charles in his element here (and he is quite picky ) confirmed for me, I had found a most special place.

And they have 3 full service meals! I think sharing a bathroom might be a first for me but just waking up here would be well, magical.

Next year. I'm in!

[ctyanky]

12. WHISTLING MAN SCHOONER COMPANY, Burlington

Recently named Best of Vermont 2018 Lake Cruise by New England Today!

https://www.whistlingman.com

Here are the cruises!

https://www.whistlingman.com/cruise-lake-champlain.html

Does this sound divine or what???? I recently discovered this site when looking for activities on Lake Champlain! I am trying to fit the day cruise into my already packed itinerary and it's going to have to happen when I am in Starksboro. The other day I'm there, I'm going to go to Fort Ticonderoga, listed above in the "bucket list". Hoping for awesome sailing weather. Maybe some of you would like the sunset cruise, moonlight or starlight cruises, for a romantic evening in Vermont!

Love it!

[ctyanky]

I've been in touch with Phil (pwt) and we are going to take the State House tour in Montpelier sometime during the first few days in October, so I'm very excited! Trying to coordinate Dog Mountain with Tim our board owner so he can take some videos for the site. And so my bucket list marches on! I may have a couple more additions before the season starts so stay tuned!

[ctyanky]

Ugh, I could kick myself. I just looked at my bucket list and lo and behold, not one of my 12 listed did I complete. Either I was too busy chasing the color or there were some inclement days in the 2 week trip. The day Phil and I were supposed to go to the State House for a tour, we decided at the last minute to meet Tim in the NEK. And I'm very glad we did. The NEK was quite the shining star this season! That meant Tim and I missed our meet up at Dog Mountain. The schooner ride was out due to rain and cool temps and I was too busy tooling about the back roads of Lincoln non stop for three days, and didn't have time for Fort Ticonderoga. The "list of excuses" goes on......

I guess this means my "bucket list" stands for the 2019 foliage season in Vermont. I did try, but the leaf peeping took priority as well as my horseback riding events. Nonetheless, I am going to add #13 here because I REALLLLLY want to ride the Cog Railway, Mount Washington NH. (gasp). I just watched a video and it looks like so much fun! Especially during foliage season!

13. MOUNT WASHINGTON COG RAILWAY, NH


https://www.thecog.com/

I hope some of you did meet your bucket list goals aside from leaf peeping. If so, feel free to share! There is so much to do and see in Vermont, it can be mind boggling! Actually, I did go to the Newfane Heritage Festival one day, something I've always wanted to attend and it was fantastic. (I got myself some sheepskin earmuffs that even covered the head band! )

A little spontaneity ruled this time!

[ctyanky]

14. BROWNINGTON, VT AND THE PROSPECT HILL VIEWING TOWER

I haven't updated my bucket list lately, and since my week long NEK lodging is in place, this lovely village has caught my eye for so many reasons. The Brownington Village Historic District is a historic site and is located near the intersection of Hinman and Brownington Center roads. The district consists of five buildings within the Old Stone House Museum complex and three neighboring houses, dating from the early 19th century. In the early 19th century, Brownington was a community on the Hinman Settler Road, a primary route in the county. It was on the stagecoach route from Boston, Massachusetts to Montreal, Quebec, Canada.

There is a stone museum there and they open for the season on May 15th! What stands out to me is the Prospect Hill Viewing Tower and I have added that to my list of Vermont tower hikes (this one looks very easy) as I have done about four already. I found an amazing drone video of the latter which may entice you to visit this quaint, historic village! I have a feeling Phil (pwt from the forum) will certainly meet me there as he is quite a history buff!

http://oldstonehousemuseum.org/

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=7FymgjlLu9A