Best Things to do on a Road Trip from Burlington, VT and Hanover, NH

Overview

Starting from Burlington, Vermont, and going through Hanover, New Hampshire, this road trip offers beautiful scenery, exciting attractions, and unique experiences. The halfway point is Williamstown, VT, where visitors can take a break and explore the charming town. From there, the trip continues to Hanover, NH, where visitors can indulge in culinary delights, take in the Ivy League atmosphere, and visit breathtaking natural wonders.

Top 5 Things to Do

1. Visit the Shelburne Museum

The Shelburne Museum, located just outside of Burlington, VT, is home to an extensive collection of American art and artifacts spread throughout 39 buildings. Visitors can view exhibits showcasing everything from folk art to quilts to carriages. With a 45-acre campus, guests can also explore meticulously manicured gardens and watch artisans at work.

Interesting Fact: The museum's founder, Electra Havemeyer Webb, was an avid collector who scoured the country for unique pieces to showcase at the museum.

2. Hike Mt. Philo State Park

For a scenic view of the Lake Champlain Valley and the Adirondack Mountains, visitors can hike the trails at Mt. Philo State Park. The summit is just a short hike away, and visitors can take in panoramic views while enjoying a picnic lunch or just soaking in nature.

Interesting Fact: The Adirondack Mountains are so named because of a Mohawk word meaning "tree eaters," as the Mohawk once burned trees as a means of clearing land.

3. Tour the King Arthur Flour Company

Just a few miles south of Hanover, NH, is the King Arthur Flour Company, famous for its high-quality flours and baking products. Visitors can take a tour of the production facility to learn how the company's products are made, browse a large selection of baking supplies, and even attend baking classes.

Interesting Fact: King Arthur Flour has been producing flour since 1790, making it the oldest flour company in the United States.

4. Walk through the Dartmouth College Campus

Dartmouth College, an Ivy League institution located in Hanover, NH, boasts an impressive campus with a rich history. Visitors can take a self-guided tour of the campus to see historic buildings such as Baker Library, stroll through the picturesque Dartmouth Green, and take in the collegiate atmosphere.

Interesting Fact: Dartmouth College was founded in 1769 and is the ninth-oldest college in the United States.

5. See the Flume Gorge

Located in Franconia Notch State Park, just a short drive from Hanover, NH, the Flume Gorge is a natural wonder not to be missed. Visitors can walk along a boardwalk through a narrow gorge, past waterfalls and rock formations, and end at the stunning Pool and Sentinel Pine Bridge.

Interesting Fact: The rocks in the gorge are a type of granite known as Conway Granite, which is also found in nearby Mt. Washington.

Conclusion

This road trip from Burlington, VT, to Hanover, NH, offers a diverse range of experiences, from cultural attractions to natural wonders. The trip takes approximately two hours each way, not including stops or exploring along the way. Whether travelers are looking for history, natural beauty, or simply a fun vacation, this road trip has something for everyone.