Daytripper 2017 by Seven Days

Vermont Family Summer Fun Guide

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2017

ActionPacked Itineraries PLUS

Ski Resorts in the Summer

Outdoor Festivals Berry-Picking Roundup

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See what Vermont is really famous for.

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Welcome

Hit the Road!

COPUBLISHER/ EXECUTIVE EDITOR

Cathy Resmer

cathy@kidsvt.com COPUBLISHER

Colby Roberts

colby@kidsvt.com MANAGING EDITOR

Alison Novak

alison@kidsvt.com CONTRIBUTING EDITOR

Meredith Coeyman meredith@kidsvt.com ART DIRECTOR

We all have those in-the-know friends we turn to for tips on the best places to visit, hike or eat out with the kids. This guide is kind of like that friend.

Brooke Bousquet brooke@kidsvt.com

ACCOUNT EXECUTIVE

Kaitlin Montgomery kaitlin@kidsvt.com

CONTRIBUTING WRITER

Or like a group of those friends, actually. The Daytripper is produced by the award-wining sta˜ of Kids VT, Vermont’s free monthly parenting magazine. We live in Vermont. We’ve got kids of all di˜ erent ages and interests. And we’ve spent years researching and writing about local hot spots that are perfect for allages outings. We filled this travel guide with some of our favorite places to play and eat across the state. Rather than a dense laundry list of things to do — c’mon, we’ve all got more than enough laundry! — it’s a curated one. The five routes we recommend contain both must-see attractions (think Waterbury’s Ben & Jerry’s factory) and hidden gems (the quirky filing cabinet sculpture in Burlington’s South End). A key at right explains the icons that appear throughout these pages. The maps will give you a sense of Cost < $20 where things are. per family of 4 This guide is not comprehensive. Just because we haven’t included your family’s favorite creemee stand Cost = $20-$50 doesn’t mean it’s not awesome. per family of 4 Truthfully, there’s so much to do during the summer in Vermont that we couldn’t possibly fit it all in. Cost > $50 Whether you’re a local or a visitor, per family of 4 we hope the Daytripper inspires you to hit Vermont’s billboard-free roads with your family this summer and try Photo Op something new. Enjoy the ride!

Brett Stanciu

brett@kidsvt.com PROOFREADER

Katherine Isaacs PRODUCTION MANAGER

John James CREATIVE DIRECTOR

Don Eggert DESIGNERS

Charlotte Scott, Rev. Diane Sullivan CIRCULATION MANAGER

Matt Weiner CIRCULATION DEPUTY

Je˜ Baron ILLUSTRATOR

Jessica Rae Gordon

The Daytripper: Vermont Family Summer Fun Guide is published annually and circulated in northern and central Vermont by:

$$$



ALISON NOVAK, MANAGING EDITOR

P.S. Find more articles, reviews and

From top: Cathy Resmer on Owl’s Head Mt., Cathy’s car, Alison Novak and her kids in Quechee, Brooke Bousquet’s car, Brooke and her kids in Quechee.

a full calendar of events in our monthly magazine, available at more than 700 locations around Vermont and at mobile-friendly KidsVT.com. You might also want to snag our sister publication Seven Days newsweekly, which delivers the latest local news, views and culture every Wednesday.



Rainy Day Activity



Must See

Hidden Gem

SUMMER 2017

SWING INTO SUMMER SALE

$100 OFF any Play System

Bring in this coupon to receive this offer. Expires 8/31/17

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SPRING BREAK

BIKE SALE THROUGH APRIL 16

5/8/17 9:52 AM

Snacks for the Road Grab these local goodies before you head out on your next adventure

Nutty Steph’s Maple Walnut Milk Chocolate Family Bar (a portion

of the proceeds supports Main Street Alliance, a coalition advocating for paid family leave) Middlesex

Vermont Village Organic Unsweetened Applesauce Barre Cabot Seriously Sharp White Cheddar Cheese Cabot

Vermont Smoke & Cure Uncured Bacon Pork Stick Hinesburg

Champlain Orchards McIntosh Apples Shoreham

Mama’s Special Organic Maple Kettle Corn Hyde Park

Maple Walnut Vermont Peanut Butter Morrisville Find these items at your neighborhood co-op or natural foods store! SUMMER 2017

Bustling Burlington

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Spirit of Ethan Allen

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Strolling, shopping, beaches and boats

BY MEREDITH COEYMAN

There’s so much to do in Burlington that families could easily fill a day or two without leaving the city limits. Distinctive local shops, restaurants and galleries dot its downtown — especially along the pedestrian-friendly Church Street Marketplace. Vermont’s largest city is also home to numerous parks and a paved bike path that winds along the shore of Lake Champlain. The Adirondacks rise in the distance on the other side of the lake. When the sun sets behind them at the end of the day, it’ll take your breath away. Pro tip: Parking is free for the first two hours at all city-owned garages.

Waterfront Park

Attractions 1. Waterfront Park Lake St. Located west of downtown along the Lake Champlain shoreline, Waterfront Park is the perfect place for a creemee — available at Burlington Bay Market & Café, or at a stand by the railroad tracks — and a stroll along the boardwalk. Tired? Sit in one of the wooden swings and enjoy the view.

2. ECHO Leahy Center for Lake Champlain 1 College St., 10 a.m.-5 p.m. This year-round lake aquarium offers an up close look at native Vermont fish, turtles and eels, as well as a touch pool — and, until September 4, 2017, a live butterfly exhibit. An on-site cafe serves snacks or lunch. $$

THE DAYTRIPPER

3. Andy A-Dog Williams Skatepark Waterfront Access North Skate legend Tony Hawk attended the 2016 grand opening and dedication of this worldclass concrete facility named for the late DJ/ Turntablist Andy “A-Dog” Williams. Older kids can navigate ramps, rails, boxes, a half-bowl and half-pipe. The younger set, and parents, might be better off just watching.

4. Tallest Stack of File Cabinets Flynn Ave. (on right, heading west, before railroad tracks) Titled “File Under So. Co., Waiting for...,” this sculpture is a whimsical monument to bureaucracy. It references the controversial and still incomplete Southern Connector roadway, which would direct traffic from I-89 to downtown Burlington, relieving congestion on Shelburne Road. The stack’s 38 filing drawers represent every year from the road’s 1965 conception to the cabinet’s 2002 construction. (Its creator, architect Bren Alvarez, could add another 15 drawers for the years since.)

5. Church Street Marketplace The brick-lined thoroughfare is closed to vehicle traffic from Pearl Street to Main, making it ideal for shopping, people watching or dining at one of the many restaurants that offers outdoor seating. Kids can clamber on the boulders or study the sculptures scattered along the route. Don’t miss Frog Hollow Vermont Craft Gallery, which sells traditional and contemporary work by area artisans.

6. Spirit of Ethan Allen cruises 1 College St. The standard, 90-minute narrated cruise — filled with fun facts about the lake, its history and its inhabitants — is worth the price of admission, especially for those who’ve never ventured out on Lake Champlain. Refreshments — and bathrooms — are available on board. $$$

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Family-Friendly Parks, Biking and Beaches 11. Burlington Bike Path

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This 8-mile-long paved path runs from Oakledge Park on the city’s South End all the way to the mouth of the Winooski River, where bikers can pick up the Island Line Trail. Didn’t bring bikes? Rent two-wheelers — or a tandem bike, tagalong or trailer — from Local Motion. The nonprofit operates a trailside center at 1 Steele Street, near ECHO.

Food & Drink 7. Burlington Farmers Market

9. August First Bakery

City Hall Park

This neighborhood café offers breakfast, lunch, pastries and lattes. Don’t miss the jalapeño cheddar rolls. Kids are welcome and there’s usually a stash of toys to keep little ones occupied — but leave your laptops and tablets at home.

55 Main St. Find a variety of cake and yeast doughnuts in flavors like blueberry and toasted coconut, all made from scratch from mostly local ingredients.

A universally accessible circular tree house distinguishes this South End city park, which also has a playground, beach, tennis and bocce courts, and a picnic shelter. Visitors can also access the nearby Earth Clock at Blanchard Beach. Its 14 imposing granite slabs stand in a 43-anda-half-foot circle, right off the bike path. Constructed in 2007 by grassroots nonprofit Circles for Peace, it functions as a clock, compass, calendar and sundial, and attracts the occasional solstice ceremony and sacred circle dance. $

52 Institute Rd.

FLYNN AVE.

8. The Doughnut Dilemma

Flynn Ave.

13. North Beach

Every Saturday from 10 a.m. – 2 p.m., mid-May until mid-October, City Hall Park hosts vendors selling local produce, handmade crafts, meats and cheeses. They serve breakfast, lunch and sweet treats, too.

12. Oakledge Park

149 S. Champlain St.

10. Sherpa Kitchen 119 College St. Enjoy authentic Nepalese and Himalayan Sherpa cuisine, with kidfriendly options like dumplings and noodles, in a relaxed atmosphere.

This is Burlington’s largest beach, and the only one with lifeguards in summer. The shallow water extends far beyond shore, making it harder for young swimmers to get in over their heads. A concession stand sells creemees and snacks. There’s a picnic shelter and playground on site, as well as canoe, kayak and paddleboard rentals. Pro tip: Avoid the entry fee by riding there on the bike path. $

Just outside Burlington... 14. Whale Tails at Technology Park Walking Trail 55 Community Dr., South Burlington A flat path leads walkers to “Reverence” — aka the Whale Tails — visible from I-89. When sculptor Jim Sardonis created it in 1989, he never could have guessed that it would become the perfect family selfie spot.

SUMMER 2017

ALSO IN THE AREA: BCA Center • Flynn Center for the Performing Arts • Petra Cliffs • Centennial Field (home of the Vermont Lake Monsters minor league baseball team) • Ethan Allen Homestead

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Slopes

Vermont’s downhill destinations offer entertainment all year long 1. Smugglers’ Notch Resort 4323 Rte. 108 South. Info, 332-6854. smuggs.com

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Smuggs’ waterpark village boasts three wet “playgrounds” and two reservoirs spread across the resort’s three interconnected mountains. A Daycation ticket and free, on-call shuttle give access to every location. In the ankle-deep Little Smugglers’ Lagoon, tiny tots can slosh under a gentle waterfall, explore a faux cave and float on colorful rafts. Nearby, kids up to 48 inches tall can ride the Turtle Mini-Waterslide into a shallow pool. Rum Runners’ Hideaway, a six-acre reservoir in a scenic mountain setting, offers a floating trampoline and paddleboat and canoe rentals. There’s more swimming at Bootleggers’ Basin, in addition to the Zoom Flume inflatable waterslide. Dry the kids off and check out mini golf, a zip line canopy tour and a treetop obstacle course. New this year is the 26,000-square-foot indoor FunZone 2.0, featuring an inflatable slide, obstacle course, climbing wall, arcade and laser tag. $$$

2. Stowe Mountain Resort 7416 Mountain Rd. Info, 888-253-4849. stowe.com

4 Okemo Mountain Resort

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THE DAYTRIPPER

Stowe Rocks, part of the sprawling new $25 million Adventure Center, is a paradise for rock climbers. The Elephant Head Tower, named for a nearby outdoor climbing cliff at Smugglers’ Notch, is the centerpiece of the indoor climbing facility, which boasts nearly 50 routes on 20-odd top-rope stations. Auto-belays — devices that take up the slack, eliminating the need for a climbing partner — allow the Adventure Center to accommodate slews of wall scalers. The smallest among them can head to the KidZone climbing area, for children 13 and under. It’s home to a 12-foot climbing wall with hand- and toe-holds in the shape of airplanes, trains, letters and numbers. Outside, a zip line and ropes course allow adrenaline junkies to get some air time. $$$

3. Okemo Mountain Resort 77 Okemo Ridge Rd., Ludlow. Info, 800-78-OKEMO. okemo.com Okemo is home to the Timber Ripper, a mountain coaster that sends riders zooming downhill in sled-like cars — solo or with a partner. Each car is mounted on tubular rails and equipped with hand brakes so riders can control their speed while descending 375 vertical feet into the Jackson Gore base area. The resort’s Adventure Zone includes the Coleman Brook Mining Company — where kids can pan for gems and minerals using screen trays — as well as scenic chairlift rides, a bungee trampoline, a maple-sugaring-themed disc golf course, mini golf, a climbing wall, and an indoor pool and fitness center. Especially daring visitors can leap from a 30-foot-high platform on to the AMP Energy Big Air Bag, a 30-by-50-foot inflated cushion typically used for freestyle athlete training. $$$

4. Sugarbush Resort 102 Forest Dr., Warren. Info, 800-53-SUGAR. sugarbush.com An 800-foot zip line affords visitors a high-flying ride and great views. They can also get their wiggles out on a bungee trampoline — a small square tramp with ropes and pulleys hooked to a harness that allows jumpers to get up to 25 feet of air and do tricks. For a more serene experience, the Super Bravo Express chairlift runs continuously throughout the day and brings riders to the top of the mountain and back down again. $$$

5. Killington Resort 4763 Killington Rd. Info, 800-621-MTNS. killington.com Thrill seekers will gravitate toward the Beast Mountain Coaster, a 4,800-foot-long alpine slide that winds through the woods. There’s also a bungee trampoline, Skye Ropes Course and 600-foot-long Soaring Eagle, which sends riders gliding through the air at 30 miles per hour. Less adventurous visitors might try panning for gold at Roaring Brook Mining, zig-zagging through the 5,000 square-foot Amaze’n Maze looking for checkpoints, or fishing at Snowshed Pond. Kayak and paddleboard rentals are available for ages 14 and up. $$$

6. Jay Peak Resort 830 Jay Peak Rd., Jay. Info, 988-2611. jaypeakresort.com The Pump House water park at Jay Peak delights kids and adults alike — even on cool, rainy days. That’s because it’s indoors. Visitors can chill out in the Lazy River, boogie board in the Double Barrel Flowrider wave machine or swim in one of the pools, followed by a hot-tub warm-up. Three waterslides invite riders to zip down on inflated rafts; kids must be 42 inches to ride with an adult or 48 inches to ride alone. The most extreme “slide” — La Chute — is actually a 60foot free-fall through which riders travel at about 45 miles per hour. Adults and teens who weigh at least 88 pounds can try it. Wait to eat until afterward. $$$ SUMMER 2017

Shelburne to Middlebury

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Cows, creemees and the Otter Creek

BY ALISON NOVAK

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.

Shelburne Farms

Shelburne Museum

Attractions 1. Shelburne Farms 1611 Harbor Rd., Shelburne 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. $$

2. Shelburne Museum 6000 Shelburne Rd., Shelburne 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. $$$

10 THE DAYTRIPPER

12 3. Maple Landmark Woodcraft 1297 Exchange St., Middlebury This local manufacturer makes high-quality, built-tolast wooden toys like 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. $

4. 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?

5. Junebug 5 Park St., Middlebury This nonprofit resale shop is the perfect place to stock up on summer play clothes like sun hats, bathing suits and rompers.

Vergennes

Food & Drink 6. Vermont Cookie Love

7. Otter Creek Bakery

6915 Rte. 7, North Ferrisburgh

14 College St., Middlebury

Stop for sweet treats including fresh-baked cookies and coffee-maple twist creemees.

This downtown Middlebury bakery turns out delicious olive twists and honeybuns, plus sandwiches and salads.

TO BURLINGTON

Shelburne

Detour

Peel off Route 7 onto Route 22A in Vergennes for more family fun.

10. Vergennes Laundry 247 Main St., Vergennes Snag a killer latte or croissant in a stylish atmosphere at this downtown café.

FamilyFriendly Hikes

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8. Mount Philo State Park 5425 Mount Philo Rd., Charlotte 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 Labor Day. Picnic tables and Adirondack chairs at the top are the perfect place to eat a snack and enjoy the view. $

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4472 Basin Harbor Rd., Vergennes 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. $$

9. Robert Frost Interpretive Trail Rte. 125, Ripton

Middlebury 3

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.

12. Button Bay State Park

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11. Lake Champlain Maritime Museum

5 Button Bay State Park, Vergennes

There’s no beach at this lakefront park, but a public outdoor swimming pool — with a slide — beckons, along with hiking trails. $

13. Basin Harbor Club’s Red Mill Restaurant

RIPTON

4800 Basin Harbor Rd., Vergennes

TO RUTLAND

Stop in for lunch or dinner to try hearty specialties like chicken and waffles and cheddar ale soup. There’s a robust kids’ menu and little ones can play on an expansive outdoor play structure or watch small planes take off from the adjacent grass airstrip.

SUMMER 2017

ALSO IN THE AREA: Vermont Teddy Bear Company • Rokeby Museum • Kingsland Bay State Park • Vermont Folklife Center • Middlebury Sweets • Whirlie’s World

MORE Adventure.

Discover the Killington Bike Park— Learn to Ride Package from $95.

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You can also enjoy the Bear Shop, our PajamaJeans and PajamaGram outlet and bring a lunch for a picnic outside - don’t forget to add a Vermont Brownie for dessert! 6655 Shelburne Road, Shelburne VT 05482 | 802.985.3001 ext. 1700 Store hours & tour info at www.VermontTeddyBear.com

Al Fresco Fun Ditch the hot stove and head to these open-air venues for live music and casual outdoor dining

Summervale

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1. Snow Farm Vineyard Summer Concert Series 190 West Shore Rd., South Hero. snowfarm.com

Located on Grand Isle, half an hour north of Burlington, Snow Farm opens its grounds for live local music and picnicking weekly in the warmer months. Flatbread pizza, lobster rolls, Island Homemade ice cream and Rookie’s root beer satisfy hungry guests. Wine and beer are also available. Thursdays from early June-late August; picnicking begins at 5 p.m.; music from 6:30-8:30 p.m.

2. Intervale Center’s Summervale 180 Intervale Rd., Burlington. intervale.org Live music, kids’ crafts and food-focused activities provide locavore fun at this agricultural oasis in the state’s largest city. No pets. Thursdays from July 6 to August 31; 5:30-8 p.m.; free admission; donations accepted.

3. Battery Park Concert Series Battery Park, Burlington. pointfm.com Enjoy the postcard-worthy view of Lake Champlain and the Adirondacks while swaying to tunes from nationally touring rock bands in this series sponsored by The Point FM 104.7 radio station. No alcohol. Thursdays in July; 6:30 p.m.; free admission.

4. Music in the Meadow Trapp Family Lodge, 700 Trapp Hill Rd., Stowe. stoweperformingarts.com The sun setting over the mountains provides a dramatic backdrop for these outdoor concerts. Gates open two hours before each performance, to give concert-goers plenty of time to ﬁnd a spot and enjoy a picnic. June 25, July 9, 16, 23, August 20; shows start at 7 or 7:30 p.m. and require tickets.

5. Owl’s Head Blueberry Farm Live Music Nights Owl’s Head Blueberry Farm, 263 Blueberry Farm Rd., Richmond. owlsheadfarm.com Berry pickers groove to local bands while gathering nature’s little treasures. Adults must pick two quarts of blueberries to attend. Tuesdays from July 18 to August 15; picnicking starts at 5 p.m.; music at 6.

6. Catamount Arts Levitt AMP St. Johnsbury Music Series The Stephen Huneck Gallery at Dog Mountain, 143 Parks Rd., St. Johnsbury. concerts.levittamp.org Nationally known headliners are preceded by local opening bands at this series of 10 free outdoor concerts. Dogs are welcome on the 150-acre grounds. Bring a picnic or buy dinner from food vendors. Sundays starting July 9, 4-7 p.m.

SUMMER 2017

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Summer 2017 at Shelburne Museum Open every day 10 a.m.–5 p.m. June 16–18 Classic Car Show Vintage cars, hands-on activities for all ages.

July 16 Circus Palooza

A Special Experience Museum/Lunch/Cruise

Try Blacksmithing

Package Deal $46 LCMM Members $36

Circus artists, carnival games, activities galore.

Webby’s Art Studio at Owl Cottage Activities every day from 11 a.m.–3p.m. A new project each week!

JUNE 6/19–25 Stamping Mad Design a stamp that can be printed over and over again. 6/26–7/2 Just Keep Swimming Create an interactive underwater animal inspired by the Wild Spaces, Open Seasons exhibition.

Rowing Adventures

JULY 7/3–9 Travel Transformation Imagine and build a new way to travel. 7/10–16 Print the Rainbow Create patterns and designs using a unique printing technique. 7/17–23 Ferocious Animals Draw imaginative pop-up animals. 7/24–30 Watercolor Silhouette Practice your watercolor techniques at Owl Cottage.

AUGUST 7/31–8/6 Puppet Play Design, create, and act out a story with your own finger puppet. 8/7–13 Marbled Pendants Sculpt a pendant out of clay and create a lasting memory.

“Best Museum”—Seven Days Newspaper 6000 Shelburne Rd., Shelburne, VT 05482 (802) 985-3346

shelburnemuseum.org

4472 Basin Harbor Rd., Vergennes, VT 05491 (802) 475-2022 www.lcmm.org

Montpelier to Waterbury/Stowe Government, history, hikes — and ice cream BY BRETT STANCIU

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 (pronounced “Mont-peel-yer”), 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 1. Vermont Statehouse

3. Ben & Jerry’s Factory

115 State St., Montpelier

1281 Rte. 100, Waterbury

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.

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 get to sample the sweet stuff. Don’t miss the Flavor Graveyard outside, located behind the playground. Erstwhile varieties like Wavy Gravy and Rainforest Crunch have their own headstones. $

2. Vermont History Museum 109 State St., Montpelier 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 Heritage Galleries in neighboring Barre. $

16 THE DAYTRIPPER

4. Stowe Recreation Path Mountain Rd., Stowe 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 and local stores, and, on Sundays, a farmers market. In addition to flower-strewn meadows and mountain views, from mid-July until midOctober bikers and walkers can see a series of large contemporary sculptures, courtesy of the Helen Day Art Center’s outdoor exhibit, “Exposed.”

Vermont Statehouse

11 ALSO IN THE AREA: Zutano Outlet Store • Capitol Grounds Café • Waterbury Reservoir • Cold Hollow Cider Mill • Stowe Bowl • Stowe Golf Park

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FamilyFriendly Hikes

9. Hubbard Park 400 Parkway St., Montpelier

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 iconic Camel’s Hump.

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10. Stowe Pinnacle 9

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Upper Hollow Rd., Stowe 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.

11. Smugglers’ Notch Rte. 108, Stowe

Food & Drink 5. Red Hen Baking 961 Rte. 2, Middlesex Famous as leaders of the local food movement, these bread bakers serve up delicious pastries, sandwiches and soups in a cozy coffee-shop atmosphere.

6. The Blue Stone 15 Stowe St., Waterbury Picture hand-tossed pies topped with seasonal ingredients, fresh salads and locally sourced burgers, served up in a relaxed atmosphere.

7. Pete’s Greens Waterbury Farm Market 2802 Waterbury Stowe Rd., Waterbury Center

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.

This market showcases a diverse array of Vermont agriculture, from farmraised meats and small-batch cheeses to raw honey and prepared foods.

8. Depot Street Malt Shop 57 Depot St., Stowe Burgers, fries and the thickest milkshakes in town feed hungry families at this ’50s-style diner.

SUMMER 2017

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Explore, Discover, and Enjoy this award-winning, Science Museum—indoors and out. Open daily 10 - 5

Montshire Museum of Science Norwich, VT • montshire.org • 802-649-2200

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Jamie Two Coats Toyshop

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Berry Delicious Pick your own strawberries, blueberries and raspberries at these Vermont patches

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4. Fisher Brothers Farm

8. Norris Berry Farm

4947 Spear St., Shelburne Info, 735-0005. ﬁsherbrothersfarm.com

686 Davis Rd., Hinesburg Info, 453-3793. norrisberryfarm.com

This family-run farm grows blueberries, blackberries, raspberries, elderberries and antioxidant-rich aronia berries. Get ’em pre-picked or harvest them yourself. Visitors can also purchase sweet corn, sunﬂowers and squash — plus hand-churned berry ice cream.

Find abundant blueberries, raspberries and vegetables at the farm stand; call ahead for pick-your-own availability.

1. Adam’s Berry Farm

5. Hartshorn Organic Farm

985 Bingham Brook Rd., Charlotte Info, 578-9093. adamsberryfarm.com

54 Quarry Rd., Waitsﬁeld Info, 496-3081. hartshornfarm.com

Stock up on fresh organic blueberries and raspberries at this community-focused farm. Sweaty kids can grab a fruity popsicle from the cooler in the on-site farm store.

Find organic strawberries, blueberries and vegetables galore at this Mad River Valley farm. There’s a maple sugarhouse, too.

2. Brown’s Beautiful Blueberries 493 Coburn Hill Rd., Craftsbury Info, 586-2202. bbblueberries.com Widely spaced bushes make for easy picking at this hillside Northeast Kingdom patch with a stunning view of Craftsbury Common. Bring your own containers.

3. Cedar Circle Farm & Education Center 225 Pavillion Rd., East Thetford Info, 785-4737. cedarcirclefarm.org Strawberries and blueberries are not the only attraction — families can also enjoy a sandbox, kid-friendly chickens and a selfguided farm tour. Bring a picnic or purchase fresh-baked pastries and fair-trade co˜ ee at the on-site Hello Café.

6. Isham Family Farm 3515 Oak Hill Rd., Williston Info, 872-1525. ishamfamilyfarm.com Fifth-generation farmer Mike Isham welcomes youngsters for blueberry and raspberry picking in his ﬁelds, where chickens provide pest control. A daily voicemail recording explains what’s in season — in August, it’s sweet corn; in the fall, pumpkins.

7. Last Resort Farm 2246 Tyler Bridge Rd., Monkton Info, 453-2847. lastresortfarm.com The Doyle-Burr family has been growing organic strawberries for more than 30 years. Their berry patch has specially marked “toddler rows,” where little ones can pick freely. Raspberries, mulberries, and red and black currants are also available — by appointment only.

9. Owl’s Head Blueberry Farm 263 Blueberry Farm Rd., Richmond Info, 434-3387. owlsheadfarm.com From mid-July to mid-August, pick at least two quarts of blueberries to gain admission to the farm’s Tuesday evening concerts. Bring a picnic, blanket and chairs if you like.

10. Sam Mazza’s You-Pick Berries 277 Lavigne Rd., Colchester Info, 655-3440. sammazzafarms.com Pick your ﬁll of strawberries, blueberries and raspberries at this 350-acre family farm, then check out the petting zoo, playground, retail market, bakery and greenhouse. Come back in the fall for the corn maze.

Always call ahead or check a farm’s website for the mo st up-to-date information about be rry seasons before you venture out. It’s a bummer to arr ive and ﬁnd out the berries aren’t ripe yet or have all been picked.

SUMMER 2017

St. Johnsbury to Derby Line Planetarium, puppets, parks and pups BY BRETT STANCIU

The Northeast Kingdom — made up of Essex, Orleans and Caledonia counties — is just as magical as the name suggests. Remote but rich in mountains and lakes, the NEK has long beckoned artists, activists and homesteaders seeking refuge from the modern world. This route o˜ ers an eyeopening journey deep into rural Vermont, where humans are scarce, and cell service is spotty. Pro tip: Download directions to your destination before you leave, or bring an actual road map.

Attractions 1. Fairbanks Museum & Planetarium

3. The Museum of Everyday Life

5. The Old Stone House Museum

1302 Main St., St. Johnsbury

Rte. 16, Glover

109 Old Stone House Rd., Brownington

St. Johnsbury industrialist Franklin Fairbanks founded this eclectic natural history museum during the Victorian era and ﬁlled it with a “cabinet of curiosities” from around the world. The stately red sandstone building still contains an odd amalgam of dolls, weapons and stu° ed wildlife specimens, as well as artwork made entirely of dead bugs. The interactive Soucy Family Exploration Station, with its 60-inch diameter Omniglobe capable of illustrating weather patterns, is a more recent addition. Catch the planetarium’s engaging 30-minute “Night Sky” presentation for an additional fee. $$

Housed in an unheated roadside barn, this whimsical, self-guided attraction celebrates ordinary objects, such as toothbrushes, dust and the safety pin. An exhibition of “bells & whistles” opened at the end of May.

Built in 1836 by educator and minister Alexander Twilight — the ﬁrst AfricanAmerican to earn a bachelor’s degree in the United States — this impressive granite building originally housed students attending Twilight’s nearby school. The picturesque grounds provide the ideal spot for picnicking and warm-weather roaming. $$

2. Dog Mountain 143 Parks Rd., St. Johnsbury Leashes are optional at this 150-acre, canine-centric compound. The main draw is a nondenominational Dog Chapel, established by the late artist Stephen Huneck and plastered with photos, notes and heartfelt remembrances of departed doggie companions. Two- and four-legged visitors are also welcome to stroll the grounds, which include trails, ponds and gardens.

22 THE DAYTRIPPER

4. Bread and Puppet Museum Rte. 122, Glover Provocative German puppeteer Peter Schumann founded Bread and Puppet Theater in New York City in 1963 and moved it to a Vermont farm 11 years later. His activist troupe, so named because the puppeteers bake and distribute free bread at performances, is known for depicting warmongers, cruel capitalists and the su° ering poor. Its “museum” is a 150-year-old barn that’s packed to the rafters with a colorful — and PG-rated — collection of masks, paintings and giant puppets. Be sure to turn out the lights when you leave, and stop at the Cheap Art bus across the road.

6. Haskell Free Library & Opera House 93 Caswell Ave., Derby Line, Vermont/ 1 Church St., Stanstead, Québec This unusual library straddles the U.S.Canada border. Upstairs, an ornate and functioning opera house features a stage in Québec with spectators’ seats primarily in Vermont. You don’t need your passport to enter. $

7. Crystal Lake State Park 96 Bellwater Ave., Barton Surrounded by mountains, this stunning glacial lake attracts visitors with a long stretch of sandy shoreline, a historic granite beach house, plus charcoal grills, play areas and rental boats. $

TO CANADA

Derby

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10. Mount Pisgah, North Trail Rte. 5A, Westmore A moderately difficult, four-mile hike rewards families with jaw-dropping views of pristine Lake Willoughby, aptly dubbed “the Lake Lucerne of America.” Cool down post-hike at Willoughby’s free public beach, which has ample sand — and parking.

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ALSO IN THE AREA: St. Johnsbury Athenaeum • Maple Grove Farms • Lamoille Valley Rail Trail • Jasper Hill Farm • The Parker Pie Company

FamilyFriendly Hikes

Glover

Burke

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St. Johnsbury

11. Barr Hill 1521 Barr Hill Rd., Greensboro This meandering loop on Nature Conservancy land offers stunning panoramas and a pretty picnicking area, with open fields for a game of tag. Watch for wild blueberries.

Detour

Bend your trip back through Greensboro along Route 16 for more scenic views and attractions.

12. Caspian Lake Beach Rd., Greensboro Its beach boasts clean, shallow water wellsuited for small children, and it’s just steps from the white-fenced village green and the old-school Willey’s Store — a purveyor of fresh berries, groceries and dry clothes, should you need them.

13. Cassie’s Corner 38 Beach Rd., Greensboro

Food & Drink 8. Red Sky Trading 2894 Glover St., Glover This quaint antique store/ bakery often operates on the honor system. With to-die-for doughnuts and assorted sweets, Jasper Hill Farm cheese and Patchwork Farm Bakery Bread, it’s the ideal spot to sip a cup of coffee while lounging on an Adirondack chair beside the Barton River.

9. The Parson’s Corner 14 Glover Rd., Barton This small-town eatery touts its “culinary enthusiasm for diner fare.” A casual atmosphere with a creative and scrumptious menu — think slowsmoked pastrami and fried green tomato BLTs — makes this a fine family choice.

Sample a scoop at this family-owned ice cream shop that locals love.

Or wind north on Route 114 to East Burke for mountain biking.

14. Kingdom Trails 478 Rte. 114, East Burke Bring your mountain bikes to traverse this vast network of nonprofit-maintained scenic trails. Certain loops are designed just for kids — from unsteady youngsters to teens ready for a longer course. Don’t let your kids try the Troll Stroll, Tap ’n Die or the Coronary Bypass unless you know they’re ready. Rent two-wheelers at a local shop if you left yours at home. $$ SUMMER 2017

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The Best Fests

6. Do Good Fest

Save the date for these all-ages annual events 1. Sam Mazza’s Strawberry Festival Saturday, June 17, at Sam Mazza’s Farm Market in Colchester. Info, 655-3440. sammazzafarms.com Get a sweet start to summer, with fresh berries, strawberry milkshakes and shortcake topped with whipped cream. Pony rides, kids’ games and a petting zoo give visitors a break from all that chowing down.

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2. Quechee Hot Air Balloon Craft and Music Festival

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4 Friday, June 16-Sunday, June 18, on the Quechee Green. Info, 295-7900. quecheeballoonfestival.com

high-ﬂying festival on Father’s Day This high-fl weekend includes a tented Kid’s Zone.

3. Summer Revels Saturday, June 24, on the Norwich Green in Norwich. Info, 866-556-3083 revelsnorth.org/summer-revels/ Merry makers ring in the summer solstice, with choral and community singing, dancing, live music and giant puppets.

4. Abenaki Heritage Weekend Saturday, June 24-Sunday, June 25, at the Lake Champlain Maritime Museum in Vergennes. Info, 475-2022. lcmm. org/museum_info/native-americanencampment.html Members of the Native American tribe sing, dance, drum, and demonstrate traditional skills including basket making and cooking.

5. Stowe Balloon Festival Friday, July 7 and runs through Sunday, July 9, at the Stoweﬂake Mountain Resort in Stowe. Info, 253-7355. stoweballoonfestival.com Live entertainment, food tents and breathtaking views make this Stowe celebration soar.

Saturday, July 15, at The Lawn at National Life Group in Montpelier. Info, info@DoGoodFest.com. dogoodfest.com The National Life Group hosts this day-long community-focused fest, featuring booths from local nonproﬁts, an eclectic bunch of food vendors, and live music from Dwight & Nicole and Kat Wright, among others.

7. Lake Champlain Maritime Festival Thursday, July 27-Sunday, July 30, at Waterfront Park in Burlington. Info, 482-3313. lcmfestival.com Ticketed nightly concerts, an international food court, art activities, kids’ rides and an antique boat show enliven the Queen City’s waterfront.

8. Festival of Fools Friday, August 4-Sunday, August 6, in downtown Burlington. Info, 865-7166. vermontfestivalo° ools.com Downtown Burlington becomes the stage for some of the world’s best buskers during this annual street theater celebration organized by Burlington City Arts. See live music, comedy and circus acts, all of which are family-friendly, and, best of all, free.

9. Jay Summer Fest and August West Music Festival Saturday, August 12, in downtown Jay. Info, 343-5687. jayvt.com Saturday, August 12, at Jay Peak Resort. Info, 327-2596. jaypeakresort.com Celebrate the season with a parade, King Arthur Flour baking contest, horseshoe tournament, food, ﬂea market, kids’ games and live music in downtown Jay. Kids are also welcome at Jay Peak Resort’s musical festival, celebrating the tunes of the Grateful Dead with live bands, free Ben & Jerry’s and tie-dyeing on the town green in Jay.

10. Champlain Valley Fair Friday, August 25-Sunday, September 3, at the Champlain Valley Expo in Essex Junction. Info, 878-5545. champlainvalleyfair.org Cotton-candy fun and carny curiosities collide at the Vermont’s largest fair, featuring midway rides, daily parades and live entertainment. It always ends when the summer does — the day before Labor Day. SUMMER 2017

Norwich to Woodstock Science exploration, birds of prey and river wading

VINS Natu Cent

BY ALISON NOVAK

It only takes about half an hour to drive from Norwich to Woodstock, but there are enough natural and man-made attractions in the area to occupy a family for days. From the science-themed Montshire Museum to the pastoral Billings Farm, the falcons and owls at VINS to the baking supplies at King Arthur Flour, there’s something for everyone on this route.

Attractions 1. Montshire Museum of Science

Quec

1 Montshire Road, Norwich Interactive science exhibits and activities, both indoor and out, distinguish this destination. Kids can study an elaborate leafcutter ant farm, pedal an elevator bike or play with gigantic bubbles in the whimsical “Bubbles: Science in Soap” exhibit. Visitors under 5 will appreciate Andy’s Place, a small-scale play area with sound, visual and tactile stations. Outside, a waterthemed science park provides opportunities for H2O exploration and discovery, and an on-site café serves lunch. Pro tip: Bring a bathing suit and towel. The Planet Walk, a scale model of the solar system, takes explorers on a 1.6 mile trail walk from Mercury to Pluto. $$$

2. VINS Nature Center 6565 Woodstock Rd., Quechee The Vermont Institute of Natural Science’s sprawling campus features 17 raptor enclosures, where visitors can observe eagles, falcons, hawks and owls. There’s also a bird hospital, a forest exhibit, live animal shows and nature trails. Website Thrillist recently dubbed the VINS Nature Center the most underrated attraction in Vermont. $$$

3. Billings Farm & Museum 69 Old River Rd. (at Rte. 12N), Woodstock This working dairy farm across the Ottauquechee River from downtown Woodstock offers a window into Vermont’s agricultural past. The barns showcase antique tractors, farm equipment and massive cows, while the on-site dairy bar serves up flavorful ice cream made from locally sourced milk. $$

28 THE DAYTRIPPER

Woodstock 5

ALSO IN THE AREA: Hopkins Center for the Arts at Dartmouth College • American Precision Museum • Simon Pearce Flagship Store • Sugarbush Farm • Long Trail Brewery

VINS Nature Center

Family-Friendly Hikes

Norwich 4

Quechee 2 TO NEW HAMPSHIRE

U.S. Rte. 4, Quechee Known as “Vermont’s Little Grand Canyon,” the 165-footdeep Quechee Gorge is accessible via an easy downhill hike. Once there, families can skip stones and wade in the Ottauquechee River. Back up top, a large visitor’s center beckons, with bathrooms and souvenirs galore. Find tons of more eclectic treasures down the road at the sprawling Vermont Antique Mall. There’s a toy museum upstairs with a mind-blowing assortment of vintage lunchboxes, troll dolls, piggy banks and playthings sorted by the decade in which they were popular.

8. Marsh-BillingsRockefeller National Historical Park

Food & Drink 4. King Arthur Flour Bakery Café + Store

7. Quechee Gorge

54 Elm St., Woodstock

5. White Cottage Snack Bar

135 U.S. Rte. 5, Norwich

863 W. Woodstock Rd., Woodstock

Delicious sandwiches and salads, cappuccinos and cookies, and breads galore are available at the café. The spacious baker’s store is the perfect place to stock up on baking mixes, cupcake pans and domestic items you never knew you needed.

In business since 1957, this humble spot offers assorted seafood (think fried whole-belly clams) and sandwiches. On hot days, visitors can stop in for a creemee and a dip in the river, which runs through the restaurant’s backyard.

6. Worthy Kitchen 442 Woodstock Rd., Woodstock

Next door to Billings Farm, this 550-acre preserve offers 20 miles of sugar-maplelined trails inhabited by wood ducks, white-tailed deer and painted turtles. Members of the Rockefeller dynasty were the last inhabitants of the mansion. The house and surrounding gardens are open for tours, which are $8 for adults and free for children. In the summer, a junior ranger program provides special kids’ programs on topics from bugs to orienteering. Just outside the park is 1,345-foot Mt. Tom, a popular hike with panoramic views of Woodstock.

Foodies flock to this comfort-food mecca for buttermilk fried-chicken sandwiches, duck-fat fries and an extensive list of craft brews. The busy but casual atmosphere makes it ideal for families.

SUMMER 2017

I Spy!

Mark o° the things you see along the way. Can you ﬁnd them all?

Puzzles

Mega Maze

Crisscross “AB” Words Each word will ﬁt into one spot in the grid. Use the starting letters as a guide and ﬁt each word into its spot. All words will be used, so cross o° each one after you put it into the grid.

3 Letters ABE CAB LAB 4 Letters BABY 5 Letters ABOUT ABOVE GRABS LABOR SABLE SQUAB STABS 6 Letters ABLAZE ABOARD CABLES DABBLE FABRIC STABLE USABLE 7 Letters ABOLISH CAPABLE

30 THE DAYTRIPPER

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