5 Must-Taste Spots in the Green Mountain State
Embark on a delicious journey through Vermont’s Green Mountains, where culinary delights await at every turn. From hand-picked fruits to artisanal baked goods, this tour showcases the best of Vermont’s food offerings. Discover eco-certified orchards, traditional smokehouses, iconic baking schools, and charming general stores, all while savoring the unique flavors of the region.
Champlain Orchards
Experience the taste of Vermont’s Champlain Valley. This pick-your-own orchard and farm market offers over 150 varieties of eco-certified apples, peaches, pears, plums, cherries, and berries. Visitors can enjoy award-winning hard ciders, handmade pies, and cider donuts, all while taking in the scenic views of Lake Champlain. Champlain Orchards prides itself on sustainable farming practices, ensuring that everything they produce is healthier for the soil and for you. Founded in 1998 by Bill Suhr, the orchard has grown to manage over 220 acres, offering a diverse range of fruits and handcrafted provisions. A visit to Champlain Orchards is a delightful way to discover the flavors and beauty of Vermont.
Dakin Farm
Dakin Farm is a testament to Vermont’s rich agricultural heritage. Established in 1792, this family-owned farm continues to uphold time-honored traditions, such as slow-smoking meats over smoldering corncobs and collecting sweet maple sap. Visitors can tour the farm and production facility, sampling cob-smoked ham, bacon, sausages, and other flavorful products. The farm also offers various maple products, including syrup and maple-glazed ham. With a commitment to quality and a sense of tradition, Dakin Farm provides a true taste of Vermont’s culinary tradition.
King Arthur Baking Company
King Arthur Baking Company, located in Norwich, has been a trusted name in baking since 1790. The flagship campus offers a comprehensive experience for baking enthusiasts of all levels. Visitors can take classes at the renowned Baking School, watch professional bakers in action, and enjoy snacks and desserts at the café. The retail store is stocked with baking essentials, kitchen gadgets, and thoughtful gifts. Regular baking demos and tastings in the Demo and Tasting Kitchen provide a chance to sample seasonal treats and new recipes. A visit to King Arthur Baking Company is more than just about flour; it’s a celebration of the art and joy of baking.
The Vermont Country Store
The Vermont Country Store, with locations in Weston and Rockingham, offers a nostalgic journey into the general store of yesteryear. Owned by the Orton family, who are seventh and eighth generation Vermonters, the store is filled with quality merchandise from around the block and around the world. Visitors can enjoy a selection of delicious sandwiches, salads, and snacks at Mildred’s Market, and hot food at Mildred’s Dairy Bar. The store is also known for its wide selection of American-made foods, including locally produced maple syrup, cheeses, and baked goods. Whether you’re shopping for unique gifts or indulging in tasty treats, The Vermont Country Store provides a charming and authentic Vermont experience.
New England Maple Museum
A visit to the New England Maple Museum and Gift Shop is both fun and educational. The museum displays the history of maple sugaring from Native American times to the present day, depicted through over 100 feet of hand-painted murals by a local artist. The exhibits include the most complete collection of maple sugaring artifacts in existence, along with dioramas and a short film. After touring the museum, visitors can sample the official flavor of Vermont: maple syrup. The gift shop offers a wide range of maple goodies, including syrup, cream, candy, cookies, caramels, popcorn, and even jellybeans. It also features locally produced food, Vermont souvenirs, and hand-crafted artisan gifts. Capture a group photo with the world’s largest jug of maple syrup and relax by the covered bridge and pond, making your visit to the New England Maple Museum a sweet and memorable experience.
These five destinations offer a delicious and diverse taste of Vermont’s culinary landscape. Each stop provides a unique and memorable experience that highlights the flavors and traditions of the Green Mountain State.
