In 2017, Kids VT first published Daytripper, our family summer-fun guide. For three years, we compiled a variety of action-packed itineraries — until the guide became another victim of the pandemic. This year we decided to update some of these tried-and-true routes for the next generation of families:
Each itinerary contains must-see attractions and hidden gems. All of them were compiled by local parents. We hope they inspire you to make the most of these warm-weather days! And if you’re ambling about outside, don’t forget to do a thorough tick check when you get home.
The Lake Champlain Islands
Orchards, Fossils and the Country’s Oldest Log Cabin
When glaciers carved Lake Champlain centuries ago, they left a strip of narrow islands, stretching like a string of pearls between Milton, on mainland Vermont, and Alburgh, on a peninsula that borders Canada. “The islands,” as they’re now known, are home to five historic towns, five state parks and 200 miles of shoreline. Samuel de Champlain landed here — on Isle La Motte in 1609 — when he entered the lake that now bears his name. Today, migratory birds flock here, as do outdoor enthusiasts looking to bike, camp, and reel in bass or perch.
Attractions
Arnold Zlotoff Tool Museum
71 Route 2, South Hero, more info
The late Arnold Zlotoff was a New York City industrial arts teacher who bought a complete set of bridge-builder’s tools when he was in college and continued collecting tools until he ran out of space more than 30 years later. His 3,000 treasures date from colonial times and come from a variety of trades and industries. See bark spuds, froes, twibils and more in a massive restored barn on the grounds of Apple Island Resort. The museum is open on Saturdays from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m.
Stone Castle Tour
South Hero, more info
Did you know that South Hero is home to a collection of miniature castles built by a Swiss gardener? Harry Barber sought a way to blend his native Switzerland with his life in Vermont, and over 30 years he built several small stone castles, some of which had electricity and lights! The structures are featured on a 15-mile Stone Castles Bike Loop — you’ll find it on the website above. They’re all on private property but visible from the road, so it’s best to snap a photo and cruise on past.
Goodsell Ridge Preserve
239 Quarry Rd., Isle La Motte, more info
See fossils in the outcroppings on this 83-acre preserve, where interpretive trails and a visitor center tell the story of the 460-million-year-old Chazy Fossil Reef, a world-renowned geological treasure that underlies much of the bedrock of southern Isle La Motte. It was formed by hard-shelled marine organisms and reef dwellers, such as gastropods and cephalopods. Take the Walk Through Time Trail, where 80 colorful panels depict the history of life on Earth. Each foot represents one million years. See more fossils at the smaller, 20-acre Fisk Quarry Preserve nearby.
Hyde Log Cabin
228-230 Route 2, Grand Isle, more info
Open Thursday and Friday from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. and Saturday from 10 a.m. to 3 p.m., this 1.5-story cabin built by Revolutionary War veteran Jedediah Hyde Jr. around 1783 is believed to be the oldest log cabin in the country. A Connecticut native, Hyde came to the islands with his father to survey land for Ethan and Ira Allen. The cabin, constructed of cedar logs harvested on the island, was home to Hyde and his descendants for 150 years. Spinning wheels, butter churns, a wooden sap bucket and a wooden ladle from 1785 are among the period furnishings inside. The $3 admission also gets you into the 1814 Block Schoolhouse next door. Kids under 12 are free.
Food & Drink
Seb’s Snack Bar
295 Route 2, South Hero, more info
Ask a local for favorite summer eats, and you get a one-word answer: Seb’s. The beloved snack bar serves up burgers, fries, hot dogs and Red Hots, which are hot dogs split vertically, grilled and served on a bun with mildly spicy meat sauce, mustard and raw onions. Seb’s serves four flavors of creemees and 38 flavors of hard ice cream, including Playdough, bright-yellow vanilla ice cream flecked with hot-pink and blue sugar-cookie gems.
Blue Paddle Bistro
316 Route 2, South Hero, more info
This 21-year-old restaurant is the latest product of the more than 35-year friendship between owners Phoebe R. Bright and Mandy Hotchkiss. “I never want a plate to be pretentious,” chef Phoebe says. “It’s about the flavors complementing each other.” Burgers, sandwiches, coffee-crusted pork tenderloin and pan-roasted duck breast are among her specialties. Kids are invited to say hi to resident “Paddle Pup” Wilbur!
Wally’s Place
54 Community Ln., South Hero, more info
This bagel shop was in need of a new owner in 2023 when Marilee Silva stepped in, returning to Vermont after decades spent living in different parts of the U.S. Wally’s Place does not stop at bagels. In addition to breakfast sandwich staples, Wally’s features a selection of cold and hot sandwiches, salads, pastries, and loaves of bread. Open every day from 7 a.m. to 2 p.m.
Hero’s Welcome
3537 Route 2, North Hero, more info
Walk, bike, paddle or drive to the general store that’s been a purveyor of goods and island gossip for nearly 220 years. The deli serves wraps, salads and sandwiches, which come on homemade rolls — with the exception of the Little Hero, a PB&J served on plain white bread with the crust cut off. Take time to peruse the store’s vast inventory, ranging from home accessories and beauty products to sun hats and gadgets.
North Hero House Inn & Restaurant
3643 Route 2, North Hero, more info
Welcoming guests since 1891 — when they arrived by steamboat — this inn and restaurant features seasonal Vermont food, including produce grown on-site. Diners enjoy nouvelle American cuisine in the main dining room or on the porch, where picture windows overlook Lake Champlain. One of the best places to be in the summer is the adjoining Pier Bar, serving up summer classics such as lobster rolls and clam chowder, often accompanied by live music. Bonus: There’s a kids’ menu.
The Main Stop
113 South Main Street, Alburgh, more info
Owned by a local couple, this new breakfast-and-lunch spot serves sandwiches named for island roads on freshly baked 10-inch sub rolls. There’s a simple grilled cheese on the menu, too — and breakfast sammies until 11 a.m. Try a freshly fried doughnut or a substantial cookie for dessert.
Parks & Beaches
Sand Bar State Park
1215 Route 2, Milton, more info
Named for the natural sandbar between South Hero and Milton, Vermont’s most popular day-use park offers a sandy, 2,000-foot beach that’s great for swimming. Canoes, kayaks and paddleboards are available to rent. With a large playground, picnic tables, grills and a snack bar, it’s easy to spend a day here.
Pelots Natural Area
1256 Pelots Point Rd., North Hero, more info
Three loops, totaling three miles, wind through fields, a sugar bush, mixed hardwoods and a cedar stand; they’re home to osprey, herons, hawks and the occasional eagle. Ducks, beavers and turtles are sometimes visible from trails along the marsh, and the parking lot offers spectacular panoramic views of the night sky.
Alburgh Dunes State Park
151 Coon Point Rd., Alburgh, more info
This park takes its name from the sand dunes near the center and west end of its south-facing, 3,200-foot beach, one of the longest on Lake Champlain. Canoes, kayaks and paddleboards are available to rent, but the park has no drinking water or changing rooms, so come prepared.
Shelburne to Middlebury
Cows, Creemees and Otter Creek
The Burlington-to-Shelburne stretch of Route 7, crammed with an abundance of chain stores and traffic lights, looks more like New Jersey than Vermont. Cruise on past all of that to find the picturesque farmland, mountain views, and mom-and-pop shops you’d expect in the Green Mountain State, as well as a quintessential New England college town.
Attractions
Shelburne Farms
1611 Harbor Rd., Shelburne, more info
Animal lovers can commune with adorable goats and sheep, milk a Brown Swiss cow, pick up a chicken, and play in the children’s farmyard at this 1,400-acre working farm established by Dr. William Seward and Lila Vanderbilt Webb. Older kids and parents might enjoy a guided tour — landscape architect Frederick Law Olmsted designed the grounds. The courtyard farm cart serves up tasty grilled cheeses (with cheddar and bread made on the premises). For an elegant but kid-appropriate brunch and a stroll through the formal gardens, head to the inn.
Shelburne Museum
6000 Shelburne Rd., Shelburne, more info
A variety of historical buildings house Electra Havemeyer Webb’s astounding collection of American folk art. The younger set will go gaga for carousel rides, blacksmith demos, the opportunity to explore a landlocked steamboat and the Owl Cottage, a playroom of kids’ dreams. Eat at the on-site cafe or bring a picnic.
Maple Landmark
1297 Exchange St., Middlebury, more info
This local manufacturer makes high-quality, built-to-last wooden toys such as magnetic name trains, spinning tops and mustaches on a stick. A $4 tour gives visitors a peek at the toy-making process in action, Monday through Friday at 10 a.m. or 1 p.m. The shop is also open Saturdays from 9 a.m. to 4 p.m., but there are no weekend tours.
Otter Creek and Middlebury Falls
Main Street, Middlebury
Kids will enjoy playing on the big rocks and slabs of marble on the banks of Otter Creek, right off the college town’s main drag. A quick stroll through nearby Middlebury College might spark conversations about higher education. It’s never too early, right?
Junebug
211 Maple St., Middlebury, more info
This nonprofit resale shop is the perfect place to stock up on summer play clothes such as sun hats, bathing suits and rompers.
Food & Drink
Vermont Cookie Love
6915 Route 7, North Ferrisburgh and 40 Main St., Middlebury, more info
Stop for sweet treats including fresh-baked cookies and coffee-maple-twist creemees. The original location is near Mount Philo State Park; now there’s a second one in downtown Middlebury.
Haymaker Bun
7 Bakery Ln., Middlebury, more info
Haymaker Bun’s flagship location is in Middlebury. In addition to offering a kids’ menu, this location has a deal on kids’ meals during any school break or snow day, $5 per meal with purchase of an adult meal. This means kids can eat for only $5 all summer long! This location has three floors of indoor seating and a spacious outdoor deck, making it an ideal summer destination.
Gilfeather’s Fine Provisions
3323 Route 7, Ferrisburgh, more info
Located in Ferrisburgh in the former Methodist church and run by Rick and Nancy “Nan” Benson, the impressive space is meant to be a stop-off on your route; its motto is “Great Food to Go.” Moving to this larger space in February 2026 has allowed them to expand their offerings. Find sandwiches, salads and prepared foods, as well as tinned fish and beverages.
Family-Friendly Hikes
Mount Philo State Park
5425 Mt. Philo Rd., Charlotte, more info
Arguably the most kid-friendly peak in the state, Mount Philo provides families with young children a chance to conquer a (small) mountain. The hike is 1.9 miles round trip, and a road to the summit is open from late May until mid-October. Picnic tables and Adirondack chairs at the top are the perfect places to eat a snack and enjoy the view.
Robert Frost Interpretive Trail
Route 125, Ripton, more info
This one-mile loop is dedicated to the poet’s words and the landscape that inspired them. The trail winds over rivers and streams and through blueberry patches and leaning birch trees. Frost’s poems and other quotations adorn plaques throughout the woods.
Detour
Peel off Route 7 onto Route 22A in Vergennes for more family fun.
Vergennes Laundry
205 Main St., Vergennes more info
Snag a killer latte or Swedish cardamom buns and choose from many full breakfast plates in a stylish atmosphere at this downtown café.
Lake Champlain Maritime Museum
4472 Basin Harbor Rd., Vergennes, more info
Walk from building to building at this open-air museum devoted to preserving and sharing the history of Lake Champlain. Learn about the lives of Native Americans and early French explorers, check out bark canoes and rowing skiffs at the Hazelett Watercraft Center, and climb aboard a replica of the 1776 gunboat Philadelphia II on the lakefront. Admission is free!
Montpelier to Waterbury/Stowe
Government, History, Hikes — and Ice Cream
Measuring by population, Montpelier — home to fewer than 8,000 souls — is the smallest state capital in the U.S. It’s also the only one without a McDonald’s. There are no golden arches in Montpelier, but there’s a golden dome. It sits atop the Vermont Statehouse; from January to May, members of Vermont’s part-time legislature roam the building’s historic halls. Montpelier also boasts a museum, a woodsy park, and lots of locally owned shops and restaurants. The surrounding areas offer many biking and hiking options, foodie-approved pit stops, and one very famous factory.
Attractions
Vermont Statehouse
115 State St., Montpelier, more info
Built in 1859, Vermont’s Statehouse is one of the nation’s oldest and most accessible capitol buildings. Highlights include the beautifully restored House and Senate chambers, as well as a noteworthy art collection. Don’t miss the giant oil painting of the Civil War battle at Cedar Creek; soldiers from Vermont played a vital role in that Union victory. Visitors are welcome every day but Sundays and state holidays — free guided tours are available from July through October. Lounging on the lush front lawn is encouraged anytime.
Vermont History Museum
109 State St., Montpelier, more info
Walk through an Abenaki wigwam and belly up to the bar at the Revolutionary War-era Catamount Tavern — meeting place of Ethan Allen’s Green Mountain Boys — at this hands-on history museum. The price of admission includes entry to the Vermont History Center in neighboring Barre.
Ben & Jerry’s Factory
1281 Route 100, Waterbury, more info
No trip to Vermont is complete without a stop at the Ben & Jerry’s Factory in Waterbury. Friends Ben Cohen and Jerry Greenfield founded the ice cream company in 1978 in Burlington; its first scoop shop was in a renovated downtown gas station. A 30-minute guided factory tour explains how the company fulfills its social mission to make the world a better place. Visitors also get a peek at the production process and sample the sweet stuff. Don’t miss the Flavor Graveyard outside, located behind the playground. Erstwhile varieties such Wavy Gravy and Rainforest Crunch have their own headstones.
Stowe Recreation Path
Mountain Rd., Stowe, more info
Bike or walk on this 5.3 mile paved route, which crisscrosses the Little River’s West Branch. Numerous entry and exit points offer access to restaurants, local stores and, on Sundays, a farmers market. In addition to flower-strewn meadows and mountain views, from mid-June until mid-October bikers and walkers can see a series of large contemporary sculptures, courtesy of the Current’s outdoor exhibit, “Exposed.”
Food & Drink
Red Hen Baking
60 Main St., Montpelier, more info
Famous as leaders of the local food movement, these bread bakers serve up delicious pastries, sandwiches and soups in a cozy coffee-shop atmosphere.
Woodstock Farmers’ Market
2802 Waterbury-Stowe Rd., Waterbury, more info
This market showcases a diverse array of Vermont agriculture, from farm-raised meats and small-batch cheeses to raw honey and prepared foods. It’s the perfect spot to grab picnic supplies this summer, with a wide selection of sandwiches and salads.
Café at Cold Hollow Cider Mill
3600 Waterbury-Stowe Rd., Waterbury, more info
This café offers weekend brunch, hearty lunches with options for kids, and a selection of baked goods, including apple pie and cider doughnuts. It wouldn’t be a cider mill without the cider; Cold Hollow offers canned sparkling nonalcoholic options in addition to a variety of hard ciders. Open Thursday through Monday.
Stowe Bee Bakery & Café
1056 Mountain Rd., Stowe, more info
Driven by their mission to use the best natural and local ingredients, owners Dan and Lisa, a classically trained pastry chef, offer an array of cakes, pies and other treats in addition to a solid breakfast and lunch lineup. The menu boasts many gluten-free and vegan offerings.
Family-Friendly Hikes
Hubbard Park
400 Parkway St., Montpelier, more info
Nearly 200 hilltop acres provide easy walking trails and plenty of picnicking spots. At the park’s highest point, a stone tower built in 1915 offers an amazing view of the Capital City ringed by mountains — including a fine photo op of the iconic Camel’s Hump.
Stowe Pinnacle
Upper Hollow Rd., Stowe, more info
A local favorite, this moderate hike ascends through thick forest. At its rocky summit, savor views of the quaint village tucked into a pristine landscape.
Smugglers’ Notch
Route 108, Stowe, more info
Closed to car travel in winter, the tippy top of Route 108 switchbacks sharply to a narrow pass. Make a pit stop and let the kids scramble over a jumble of boulders, which long ago hid Underground Railroad travelers and Prohibition-era bootleggers. A steep but short hike leads to the spectacular Sterling Pond and stunning views of the Smugglers’ Notch ski area.
Sarah Sieber contributed reporting.
The original print version of this article was headlined “Hit the Road | Three summer day trips for locals and visitors alike”
This article appears in Kids VT Summer Fun • 2026.
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