Vermont: The Don'ts of Visiting Vermont

[@surbon514]

I'm a native Vermonter, and this is absolutely 100% spot on perfect! Don't take our New England Shield as a sign we don't like you. Vermont tends to lean towards introversion and we are pretty quiet with each other as well. What may seem distant to you, might seem like respecting your privacy to us.

[@susanpage8315]

@@surbon514 my son lives in NH, so I visit VT often as well. The locals may not be exuberant, but I found them to be friendly. I love VT!

[@dnwitte]

Vermont banned billboards in 1968 as a measure to prevent visual blight, because we know how beautiful our state is. There was a battle to exclude Walmart too, but we lost that one.

[@pizzalover346]

Can't forget our lawsuit against McDonalds when they served "Hotcakes with maple syrup" even though it wasn't real syrup. We won that case and now McDonalds serves "Hotcakes with Hotcake syrup"

[@robertthompson9643]

Lost the Walmart battle and now you have Williston Four Corners developed into 24 corners.

[@rhemy1]

That is the funniest thing I’ve ever heard. And I love it. Banning billboards to prevent visual blight, an action after my dear own heart.

[@dnwitte]

@@rhemy1 It's really striking what a mess New York looks like when you cross that border.

[@liannebedard5521]

@@dnwitte not to mention New Hampshire, the proudly vulturous state, which lives on visitors from Mass…especially the tobacco addicts, who prefer to die of untaxed nicotine.

[@stellashepherd3229]

I’m a Vermonter. Out of state friends always laugh at me because I have a landline. They just refuse to believe I don’t have cell service unless I climb the mountain behind my house. 😄

[@nickpvb]

I miss my land line and NO ANSWERING MACHINE!!!

[@TheFlatlander440]

@@nickpvb I have to drive 5 miles to get a cell signal here in the NEK, thus I have both a landline and a cell.

[@chrissy1310]

Stella we just got rid of our landline, but I have wifi. Xfinity said it cost $44 a month! I just started streaming too, dumped that $235 cable bill. Hello from Lake Dunmore

[@kjmav10135]

When my sister visited me and tried to get cell service driving on 91, her carrier said she was in a foreign country and would be charged roaming charges! 😂

[@MillBrookRailroad]

The Ford dealer in Stockbridge only got internet two years ago.

[@woltersworld]

I totally messed up! Montpelier is the capital! My son even reminded me before i filmed this. I suck and I apologize to the Montpelier and Vermonters out there. I suck. I'm sorry.

[@spacejunk76]

lol

[@mdj864]

😂You do not suck

[@scottnelle]

Vermonter, here. We forgive you, Mark!

[@brittalbach416]

Errare Masculinum est !

[@labouroflove948]

Some of us affectionately call it Mont-peculiar.

[@patricialee76]

Don't let your gas tank get too low. Vermont doesn't have a lot of gas stations.

[@colemanfrancisfan]

Last time I visited VT I collapsed due to dehydration following a 50k. Totally my fault. Luckily some locals were near me and decided to drive my car to the nearest hospital, all while talking to me to keep me awake. I’ll never forget the kindness of that day.

[@theresabradley4716]

Not stopping in the middle of the road is just plain polite and sensible. I loved my time in Vermont.

[@danmcgowan4761]

I live in Stowe, and man this season has been brutal with the leaf peepers. Especially living 100 feet away from a covered bridge. I wish they can all see this video! Especially the part about stopping in the middle of the road. I was on my motorcycle the other day and came over a crest and someone with mass plates was backing up in my lane in the middle of the road. I thought I was going over their roof, but luckily no one was coming in the other lane, so was able to swerve. And when I try to go through the covered bridge no one will move…very rude about it like I’m in their way. It’s a shame because I want my town to thrive…but not with rude people.

[@explorer2129]

Heard that because of the pandemic and everyone working from home more mass residents are moving there. Also read an expensive new condo complex sold out earlier this year within a week recently in your town. Hopefully the rudness ratings will not go thru the roof now.

[@danmcgowan4761]

Yeas correct, everyone who owned a second home in town came up when pandemic started. Then realized they can work from home in Vermont and decided to stay. Plus all the other ones who decided to buy their first place up here.

[@jasonlawrence4617]

Maybe he should come up with more don'ts. Most tourist revenue goes to out of staters anyways who come and start businesses, or mainly buy existing businesses.

[@titomister10]

Hi Dan, when would you say is peak season for fall foliage in Stowe?

[@danmcgowan4761]

@@titomister10 it’s hard to say, it changes every year. The best way to tell is watch our weather in Vermont. When we start getting cool/cold nights and sunny warm days it can change pretty quick. Usually around the first week of October.

[@glueckskicks_lucky.hiccup]

I am from Munich, Germany, I was in Montpelier and Burlington in the summer time, it was so wonderful. The nature is breathtaking, also the Covered Bridges are impressive and beautiful. I met only totally nice, helpful and open-minded people. I would definitely like to come back.

[@scottcampbell4678]

We will gladly welcome you back

[@glueckskicks_lucky.hiccup]

@@scottcampbell4678 Thank you, that's very kind of you!

[@VelcroKittie]

As a European myself, I can totally see why Europeans would love Vermont. I'd love to visit one day. I just love how Vermont is not over the top, like so much of the US. I love how collective beauty is protected from entitled brats who never shut the hell up about their rights. I'm absolutely enamoured by the fact there are no billboards. We live on the West Coast of Ireland and you see no billboards here either. They are eyesores.

[@GStern]

I am also from Munich, and loved it too...I loved the local fresh made food and the little old fashioned hippie style in the cafe´s , beeing outdoors biking and hiking and compared to Germany the Vermonters are very open and welcoming.... it ´s so different in a good way compared to the other states I went so far ..... loved it

[@Isicil]

Just moved here last winter - this is all really accurate! Can agree- I moved up here because I'm an introvert and Vermont has always been my vibe. Keep in mind for shopping there's no plastic bags- bring your own bags for shopping or be prepared to buy the paper alternative (sometimes not offered). Antique markets tend to be completely picked over near Burlington due to the college- furniture tends to pop up near the end of the semester but otherwise, it's slim pickings. Everything and anything is local - even my hair stylist uses stuff on my hair that she gets from the farmers markets on the weekends. There's multiple a week depending on the town and season.

[@baldybald100]

Lucky!!! I would love to move to Vermont ❤️

[@vtgeiger]

"Vermont loves Vermont stuff" is the most accurate thing I've ever heard 😂

[@pizzalover346]

Came here as a vermonter to see what you were telling the flatlanders. Glad to hear you've got good advice.

[@harlansanders7938]

lol

[@CaitlinC769]

Same 😂

[@marknewton6984]

Don't move there.

[@bababue33]

As a Vermonter in the ski service industry, the best way to get better service is how polite you are versus how demanding you are.

[@barberjeff67]

Killington area seems to be the worst for that

[@dnwitte]

@@barberjeff67 I grew up there, and you're quite right.

[@dnwitte]

@Fred Wills All of us kids skied Killington, but that was because most of our parents worked for the company or "knew somebody", so we got free lift passes and cafeteria discounts. I don't know how normal people can afford a ski-weekend.

[@jerrymcsendee]

Killington has more than its share, but Stowe is the worst for self-entitled a-holes. I was discussing this with a friend once, a sorta famous skier, and said I thought Stowe was Killington with money and matching ski outfits. He said, "No. Stowe is much worse. No one at Killington has ever tried to make me feel like they were better than me."

[@lisaadams5658]

My first time on skis was at Killington, I was three years old in 1962. My parents have been to Stowe for skiing. Then we went to Stratton Mountain for years. Last time we were there was 1978. I loved skiing there. My father would start saving for our trips the day we got home from Vermont.

[@Kiraj8de]

I've lived in Vermont my whole life. It can be a lot of fun with its small town charm. The lakes and hiking trails are great. The farmer's markets have great food, crafts, music, and more. Outdoors concerts happen throughout the summer. There are some cool outdoor drive-In theaters. There is skiing, snowboarding, snow tubing, and ice skating in the winters. There is a lot to do. 😊 Fair warning... -Mosquitos can get REALLY bad in the summer. Use bug spray! -And most important... there are lots of ticks! Use tick repellent when you explore nature. Also, check your skin fully when you get a chance after! If you get a tick off your skin quickly enough you will be fine. But if it stays on long enough you are at risk of getting Lyme disease, which sucks. Please be careful! ***And finally, please be careful when exploring local watering holes. If you can't swim, or don't know how deep the water is below, take caution. There are sad cases where lives are lost because people are stupid around water.***

[@TheFlatlander440]

You forgot to mention the black flies in the Spring. Nasty little buggers for sure.

[@kjmav10135]

Ayuh!

[@maxshenkwrites]

The mosquito thing kind of surprised me. Maybe I've been lucky, but I've never had any problem with mosquitoes. GREENHEAD FLIES, though, are another story. They're a scourge and a menace and must be eradicated.

[@kjmav10135]

@@maxshenkwrites Hi Max! You are right that tiny ticks cause a special threat. While it is true that tiny, immature deer ticks can and do spread Lyme disease, full sized, Adult ticks also carry the disease and can pass it on to human hosts. That, plus the other nasty diseases that ticks carry make it worthwhile to check yourself for ticks-even the visible ones. Had a friend in Northeastern VT who nearly died of ehrlichiosis, which is another super-nasty tick-borne disease. Also, another tick-borne disease, anaplasmosis, will make you very sick. No matter what their size, ticks are little disease factories. Always check yourself.

[@jamesdodge7268]

I have lived here my whole life so far and the worst is people moving here and trying to change it to the area there from.

[@chrissy1310]

I live on Lake Dunmore and some lawyers bought the land across the street and were treating the neighborhood like a HOA! We straightend that out fast, they were very pushy

[@susanc.houghtondogandfolka3163]

I Agree! Unfortunately there are way too many people who have flocked and are still flocking to the state and changing it. I miss the Vermont I grew up in

[@LawyerCalhoun1]

I have a second home owner adjacent to my property. He is from Long Island, New York. He thinks he is in his personal Disneyland when he comes here. He is so obnoxious, I cut off his ability to telephone me.

[@asmallwhitedog0479]

100% When people come here and find things they don't like and try to change it, it really pisses us off. If you dont like Bears or Woodchucks in your back yard, or dirt roads with potholes, or any road with potholes, then here is not where you want to be. One other thing , maple syrup is not a religion.

[@jamesdodge7268]

​@@chrissy1310 My aunt and uncle live pretty close to Branbury beach

[@VelcroKittie]

I live on the West Coast of Ireland, and Vermont is one of the only states in the US that I would love to visit. Great review, and also fantastic to see locals come on to the comments section to offer their approval. Always a good sign.

[@simplesimon8255]

Why don’t you want to visit more states?

[@MerryLeafField]

My grandparents were from Co. Cavan. They loved Vermont because it looked like home. Irish and Scottish immigrants worked in the slate quarries.

[@vermontmike9800]

Great video as usual. One thing about restaurants during leaf peeping season…call ahead no matter what town you’re visiting…they ALL book up quickly. Often a 60-90 minute wait during peak foliage. Also, visit Waterbury’s Cold Hollow Mill for their apple cider and cider donuts.

[@OhMaryJo]

Perfect timing! I’m here in Vermont for the first time. We went to the farmers market yesterday. I’m really enjoying this vacation. 🍁

[@genreartwithjb5095]

As a former NYC guy turned Vermont resident. (My wife grew up in New England and is from Burlington) you hit the nail on the head. Most people from Vermont are either 10th generation or actively sought to move here by choice, so yes Vermonters like Vermont stuff. If you like Mead we got you fam., we don’t just do beer here

[@AZ-kr6ff]

I like that you refer to yourself as a Vermont resident. Being a lifelong Mainer... there seems to be a trend lately (at least in southern Maine) where a lot of new comers are openly calling themselves Mainers, and even defending the trend: "I took the step/made the effort/ life change, etc of moving here, therefore I reserve the right of calling myself a Mainer". It might seem petty, but it's a little annoying, and feels kind of disrespectful.

[@johnh4948]

Go back to NYC.

[@smokeyjoe4893]

@@AZ-kr6ff as a life long Vermonter,I agree.

[@littlekingtrashmouth9219]

But The Alchemist is from Vermont. Heady Topper is a sought after IPA

[@tribunal009]

wym, dont do beer lmao von trapp, hill farmstead, the alchemist, lawsons, switchback, zero gravity, burlington beer co, i can keep going

[@robertthompson9643]

In regards to mud season, dirt roads in most areas are not slippery, as you said, but impassable. An important don't during winter and mud season......don't rely on computerized directions. Many back roads are difficult to travel or outright closed. Stay on numbered highways as much as possible. The season runs from March 1st to mid April generally, but can run into May in northern areas and higher elevations.

[@MrHaighahatta]

During mud season, the vast majority of VT backroads are 4-wheel drive, 10+ inches clearance ONLY, unless you can find a local farmer with a tractor to pull you out (we don't object, mind you, to filling in some of those deeper ruts with an out-of-stater's Lexus or BMW, however).

[@mnemosynevermont5524]

100%

[@johnathandrew118]

Thank you so much for your first two don'ts. Our two lane paved and dirt roads may look like untraveled backroads to visitors but these are our highways. We're trying to get to and from work, the store, school etc and we tend to travel fast on these quaint looking byways because we're familiar with them. Holding us up to gawk is irritating. Our roads also are winding and can have limited sight distances. Stopping in the road without being aware of this could lead to an unfortunate meeting with a milk or logging truck that was not expecting you to stop in a blind curve.

[@TheFlatlander440]

That, and never, never stop in the middle of a covered bridge since the majority of them are one lane.

[@chrissy1310]

I live on Lake Dunmore, you should see the action during the summer on these narrow roads. In the spring when the sand is on the roads from the winter, if your walking you can pretty much eat it when a car goes by LOL

[@scottcampbell4678]

It also makes it hard for delivery trucks.

[@liannebedard5521]

@@scottcampbell4678 If you’ve lived or especially, driven, in Boston, you immediately see that this mob is not about to mind the rules of the road…anywhere.,,

[@scottcampbell4678]

@@liannebedard5521 I have driven in Boston a few times. The nice thing about driving in Boston is being able to do the stupidest things and no one cares

[@huxleyginsberg13]

I visited Vermont for the first time in May, and absolutely loved it. Gorgeous and I loved the different towns. Woodstock was a personal favorite! Can’t wait to go back for a longer stay next time.

[@organicsoulgumbo]

I was there around the same time

[@dnwitte]

I went to high school in Woodstock in the 70s. I was offered my dream job there in 2014 but had to say no due to the astronomical cost of housing.

[@S.T.Rugglin]

I’ve only lived in Vermont for two years, but I feel like there are two different “feels” to the state. The Northern half has the Canadian vibe of being laid back, and independent. The Southern half has more of the East Coast edginess and is going to feel more like a normal New England area without all the stores and traffic.

[@woltersworld]

Cool

[@PS987654321PS]

Canadians aren't "laid back". Nor are they "independent". You're talking out your keister.

[@alexanderthegreat9601]

I moved back to small town Vermont 12 years from Florida. I never realized how much I missed Vermont when I came back. When I lived in Florida I said, "If I could bring the mountains of Vermont to Florida." "Florida would be perfect."

[@greensorrel6860]

Several generations Native Vermonter, family came there before it was a state.I moved to Florida. Vermont is taxing it's residents out. Since a child, I have e seen the political climate change rapidly. My relatives tell me Burlington parks and common areas are flooded with homeless. When I was a child Burlington had one homeless man and he was by choice. Also no cops at night in Burlington, another progressive change.

[@johnshaw3733]

Montpelier is actually the capital of Vermont, not Burlington.

[@woltersworld]

i know. i totally messed that one up.

[@Cuyt24]

No, the capital is actually Concord.

[@qcan8468]

@@Cuyt24 Concord is the capital of New Hampshire, not Vermont.

[@Cuyt24]

@@qcan8468 Wrong. The capital of New Hampshire is Nashua.

[@rosealexander9007]

Burlington is just bigger so I guess that’s why people forget. Of course I didn’t because I’ve been to Vermont many times. I’m originally from the other side of lake Champlain in NY state .Ny state is kind of the same way NY city is the biggest but Albany is the capital.

[@yodorob]

As someone living in Montreal, I've gone to nearby Vermont quite a few times, not to mention passing through there on the way to Boston or elsewhere in New England. I *really* love Vermont for a whole bunch of reasons!!!

[@BethBrownReinsel]

I LOVE your enthusiasm about Vermont! I've been here 15 years and feel the same!

[@julianaschumacher2659]

So interesting to see someone's perspective on my hometown! A lot of the pictures and footage are of things I've passed every day of my life in Bennington Vt. Pretty much everything from 4:45-5:30, and more interspersed throughout the rest of the video, is of Bennington. For anyone who is interested, the church you see from 5:05- 5:15 is also where Robert Frost's grave is. That's also near the Bennington monument and Main Street, where you can find a lot of the breweries that were mentioned and great restaurants. We also have a lot of places to get apple cider donuts, which are very popular around here! There are lot of beautiful things to see here, and you gave a lot of great tips! I hope anyone who comes enjoys it here!

[@martinoutside]

My favorite state. Hiked the Long Trail in 2017 & 18 and returned in 2021. People were friendly lots to love about Vermont. Thanks for another great video

[@woltersworld]

thanks!

[@nickpvb]

While scoutmaster several high school seniors asked me to help them convince their parents to let them hike the Appalachian Trail. I never said no, I told each one they ought to first complete the LT. Why? You already know, it’s tough, beautiful and it can be completed in weeks and not months, which means that family doesn’t need to spends thousands of dollars! The southern third of the LT is also the AT splitting just north of Pico. I even showed them my maps and patch (not an end to end) emphasizing the Massachusetts to Canada distance. Sadly no one took my advice. Oh well less noisy traffic.

[@munchkin5114]

Native Vermonter! There's this place called Bragg Farm 15 minutes outside of Montpelier, up route 14, and it has some of the best creemees in the state! Not to mention it's an adorable store. Would recommend!

[@BWhite-tb7ir]

Vermonter, here. Great video!! A couple things to add- mud season, there will be roads that are not passable and you will get stuck, at times no matter what vehicle you have. The Killington region was not mentioned, but it is a fantastic area for skiing and all kinds of sports all year. Great hiking, biking, so much more. One of the best places in the state to have breakfast is Sugar and Spice in Mendon, Rutland Couny. The covered bridges, we have 3 in our little town. I go through 2 regularly. Keep in mind that most covered bridges are 1 lane only so you need to see if someone id drivibg through before going gang busters through one. Also, KNOW the height of your vehicle and pleasd stop taking out the beautiful covered bridges. Also if you are taking photos around the bridges be aware of traffic. There are probably locals trying to get home and we would like to get there without having to wait for picture after picture. As for the moose and bears, yes they are around! You are far more likely to see bears than moose. We actually see bears quite regularly. So true about what is said about mosquitos in the video. And ticks. If you are hiking, be aware of ticks too. Mosters, if you see Champ on Lake Champlain, that would be awesome! Some people have strong opinions on Sasquatch. An episode of "Finding Bigfoot" was filmed in Chittenden, VT at the Chittenden dam. If you have not been there it is gorgeous. Especially in the fall. A great place for hiking, swimming and fishing too. I am not a native Vermonter, but have lived here for 10 years. I agree that locals can be stand offish to out of staters and some are downright hostile. I think tourism is great for the state, but not everyone (especially generational Vermonter families) agree. Something to be aware of. But please come visit. Have some syrup. Vermont cheese is great too. Our family loves Cabot cheese. One thing I have to say about Vermont is that the sense of community here is incredible. Each little town generally offers all kinds of activities and festivals for families. A lot of people volunteer. The Arts are also very rich. There are lots of theater companies including fantastic youth theaters. The opportunity to get produce from farms in the summer is great. It is everywhere. The taste is so much better than the grocery store and you are directly supporting a hard working farmer. Anyway, I think I said a lot. Again, great video!

[@brownjatt21]

Awesome additions !

[@lpmowgs2425]

12th generation Vermonter here! My favorite spots for maple creemees are Burlington Bay Cafe, The Mill Market, and Shelburne County Store. If you ARE here in mud season (end of March, early April), try to catch maple open house weekend to watch sugaring in action and taste some sugar on snow!

[@NatalieOlson_2010]

The best creemee you can get as someone from Vermont, is from Papa Nick's in Hinesburg. Get a black raspberry and maple twist, you will not regret it!

[@sirhc07]

The first time I visited Vermont I went to a small town called Chelsea and have wanted to go back ever since. I will have to try that out planning on going for a trip in the summer

[@allencollins6031]

Always liked Lantman's chilli and Ken's pizza on Church St.

[@litalpeled2055]

I see a new video- I automatically click. Simple as that . Been following you for 6 years already - highly appreciate your dedication, honesty and hard work

[@charlesprice7608]

I found the people to be very friendly, as soon as they heard my accent and knew I wasn’t from NY, or Massachusetts they became quite accommodating and friendly. Course the Massholes are insufferable. I figured that out in the two weeks I spent in Vermont, New Hampshire, and Maine.

[@JasonVanOrd]

I binged your Europe videos before our trip there in 2019 and they were super helpful. And just last week we were in Vermont and we could really have used some of these tips! 😄 Oh well - we’ll know for next year.

[@adamdifilippe8066]

So much of this applies to NH too.

[@craiglevy8144]

It does but I think Vermont is prettier. There's something about the trees and soils that make it special. New Hampshire is easier to drive around as its topography allows a major road in the center while Vermont's mountains prevent that.

[@woltersworld]

you are so right

[@treytonketola6469]

@@craiglevy8144 I love Vermont, but I think there are plenty of areas in New Hampshire that are much prettier than Vermont. The White Mountains for example! Have you ever driven up mount Washington? Mt Mansfield doesn't compare to that at all! I'd even say that the colors in New Hampshire seem brighter in the fall than Vermont in most places! Plus we have the ocean and wicked beautiful towns like Portsmouth!

[@franciswright6672]

N.H. Is better. I love the people in N.H. The people in N.H. are very nice. The people in Vermont are assholes trust me I know I have lived here for 22yrs and have not seen or met one nice person.

[@joecalcagni9615]

@@treytonketola6469 Spoken like someone from NH LOL

[@kitthazelton2309]

As a Vermonter, I have to say you did a pretty good job with this, but I do have 3 things to mention: first, we locals are pretty friendly to the tourists who treat us well. Second, "creemee" is a term rarely heard in southern VT. Third, the black flies and ticks are more of a worry than the mosquitos.

[@thevtyeti]

Have you ever been to Salisbury, the mosquitoes are horrible?

[@amorpaz1]

Southern Vermont doesn’t count. Vermonters say “creemee.” Love it or leave it.

[@kitthazelton2309]

@@amorpaz1 Tell that to my family, who've been here for 9 generations ...

[@amorpaz1]

@@kitthazelton2309 lol I'm joking

[@the1version422]

The ticks… oh my gosh, the ticks 😩

[@DonnaTellaMeWhatToDo]

As a Canadian, I find this list of 'Dont's' of Vermont hilarious.

[@MrReymoclif714]

Ludlow. He’s concentrating more on the southern part of Vermont.

[@gardengrammy2]

Come visit us in the Northeast Kingdom of Vermont! My hometown of Newport is on the shores of Lake Memphremagog. The lake shares an international border with Quebec. The outdoor recreation here is fantastic. Come for the flowers that bloom all summer in Newport!

[@morgandonnally2333]

I need to come to Newport to try to research my great-great grandmother!! All I have is her name (and the name of one of her sons--Hawley which was supposed to have ties to her Vermont past) and the story she left Vermont on a wagon train to Ohio or Michigan. Looking forward to exploring the Northeast Kingdom as well!!

[@Stache987]

One of my grandmother's had issues with me quoting travel time instead of mileage when I lived in the northeast.. she didn't know it takes longer in some cases.

[@MrHaighahatta]

Many Vermont towns achieve their identity by a speed limit change of 35 mph for about half a mile.

[@sandrakenny6477]

My family and I got a chance to visit Vermont last month, and it was amazing! Gorgeous place and lovely people.

[@garrettlauzon1656]

Never thought I'd see the don'ts of visiting Vermont. As a former Vermonter (Bennington County, to be specific), this makes me happy to see. I now live in Upstate NY, just over the Vermont border actually. Maybe you should do one about the dos/don'ts of visiting Upstate New York (I define Upstate as anything north of Poughkeepsie and east of Syracuse)

[@scotlawrence]

I define upstate as anything north of Poughkeepsie. period. ;) when it comes to "upstate/downstate" there are only two categories.. so everything that isn't downstate must be, by definition, upstate. Buffalo is "Upstate" (its also "Western NY) Corning is Upstate, Southern Tier, Central NY, and Finger lakes region. Jamestown is Upstate, Western NY, and Southern Tier. categories overlap. ;)

[@brettany_renee_blatchley]

I lived in Skaneateles and we always thought of this as Upstate New York...BUT many people in the Syracuse & Finger Lake region say they are Central New Yorkers (you'll see the CNY abbreviation a lot).

[@SmedleyDouwright]

I've seen upstate defined as north of Rockland and Westchester counties also.

[@scotlawrence]

@@brettany_renee_blatchley Syracuse is CNY. its also Upstate at the same time. ;) it can be (and is) both.

[@craiglevy8144]

I would say north of Hudson. There are too many downstaters crawling all over that poor town yet few go north of it.

[@vermontvoice13]

Glad you did a Vermont state video. That’s where I call home

[@woltersworld]

i love vermont. So beautiful and such good beer (and honestly vermont maple syrup is the best)

[@vermontvoice13]

@@woltersworld totally agree. I cannot eat fake syrup it tastes nasty to me now having grown up with real pure maple syrup

[@ptownRandy1]

When you buy Maple syrup, but Grade B. A richer flavor. @@woltersworld

[@kjmav10135]

I spent every summer in northeastern Vt when I was a kid, and I lived there myself for four years. It is beautiful. Lotso f bears in northern VT. Also, porcupines, foxes, deer, and an occasional Canadian lynx. Spot in about the cell service. The pine trees and granite eat the signals. You can usually get a few bars at the top of a hill. Also, be prepared for ticks! There are loads of them. Check yourself for ticks after you’ve spent time outside. Also, unfortunately, a fair amount of drug activity in the woods. Keep your wits about you while hiking.

[@lucasalling420]

as a Vermonter, you did a great job with this.. couldn't agree more

[@bishopsfishops7440]

Don't underestimate Lake Champlain. It is beautiful, large, and can change from flat calm to huge waves in a very short amount of time. I've worked on Lake Champlain for years and have seen this lake do some impressive things. Keep an eye on the forecast, if you're going on the main lake add 12-15 mph to the wind forecast when it's above 5mph.

[@chrissy1310]

I always hope they will put those GIANT fish, they have couped up in the tank at ECO back in the Lake. So cruel. 8 ft fish in this small tank for life. Anyone want to help me break them out?

[@givemyselfthecreeps]

I'm so happy that I live in Montreal.. I can drive down to Burlington every weekend and enjoy Vermont

[@chesterfranks2251]

It’s not liberal everywhere. It’s definitely more conservative in true rural regions. Tourists often stick to Stowe and Burlington. True, generational VTers will tell you these towns are not “real” VT. Definitely go off the beaten path and visit other areas. Gagne’s Maple in Highgate has the best maple cremee. Also near Gagne’s is St. Albans which is a great midsize VT town with great restaurants, Farmers Markets, a great park on lake Champlain and a terrific veteran owned brewery (14th Star Brewing Company).

[@reds815]

Your opening statements are greatly appreciated!

[@ramartinh]

Thank you for your travel videos Wolter! Especially this one about Vermont. We've never been in the US, but if we go there, New England is surely our first choice. Cheers from northern Italy!

[@markgerick3063]

I regularly make my own version of Poutine here in Texas!! 😋 A Big Southern "Thank you" to our Northern Brothers. 🤘

[@ecurewitz]

Number one also applies to the rest of New England too. DO NOT BLOCK TRAFFIC!!

[@valerieannrumpf4151]

Especially on the rural back roads.

[@liannebedard5521]

Try telling that to Boston drivers…

[@agl5132]

I grew up in Vt. My daughter just got married this past weekend on their 80 acres north of Brattleboro. I'm now living in Scotland. I love them both.

[@kjmav10135]

Vermont and Scotland feel a lot alike, don’t they?

[@Zzzsleepzzz]

Wow 🤩

[@1496Rose]

Thank you for mentioning the interaction of the locals. Living in Vermont, easy to say that the locals have a sense of stranger danger. Hell, this year on the local news we are having some crazy run ins with the leaf peepers on their property for that perfect foliage photo, really tests their patients.

[@vermontmom4232]

As a Vermonter, nicely done! 100% accurate!

[@bridges3752]

Flying out to Vermont today for fall break. Thanks for the last minute advice 😂

[@iamthanos554]

Take me with you 🥹😮‍💨

[@bridges3752]

@@iamthanos554 haha next time!?

[@iamthanos554]

@@bridges3752 sounds like a plan if you're actually serious 🥹

[@LeeAllen337]

As a Vermonter born and raised, this is pretty accurate.

[@tobiojo6469]

I would love to Visit Vermont 😊

[@woltews]

I love how the bridge he is talking about how great it to drive has a concrete block that keeps you from driving on it

[@titansfan4215]

He is right about Vermont brews. I go to Manchester Vermont every fall and bring beer back home to Tennessee. Switchback Karsten Lager and Von Trapp Helles Lager are my two favorite beers I’ve ever had. Absolutely fantastic.

[@johnnywaffles2482]

You should definitely hit the von trapp brewery next time you come up. It has gorgeous views and great beer

[@titansfan4215]

@@johnnywaffles2482 I definitely want to!

[@johnnywaffles2482]

@@titansfan4215 have you ever tried any lawsons finest? They treat their employees and community amazing. They make great beer and ive delivered to them before and they treated me amazing as well.

[@michaeltravers3095]

Don’t drive in Vermont with a headlight out. They don’t have much street lights.

[@mostdopecaptain3350]

I was born in St. Johnsbury during the ice storm of 1998. My family has land and farms all over most prominently our maple farm in Island Pond. The people of Vermont like to be one with nature and like their privacy. We pride ourselves on our farms and our beautiful land and small communities. I love my home state so much. I’ve lived in 10 different states in the US and I’m saving up to move back to Vermont. I might end up buying land in Maine but either way I’ll always support my home state and hope to take over the maple farm one day❤️

[@Chillaxing113]

The "Don'ts" about driving applies EVERYWHERE! 🙂

[@leavanwinkle1740]

Great job Wolters!!

[@toddgregory897]

VT has been my home all my life - and always will be. As for the Best Creemee - Lake Willoughby General Store (Maple) Creemee is second to none. Not to mention the breathtaking views of the Lake for the top of either Pisgah or Hor (the mountains that line the east and west sides of the most beautiful lake in the State (the east?, the country? … maybe!). It’s the Northeast Kingdom’s trophy spot in my opinion! By the way - great take on things and thank you for the video!

[@joecalcagni9615]

SSSHHHHHH! Those are my favorite hunting/fishing spots ;) Don't let the tourists find out about it or in a few short years we will be overrun by out-of-staters.

[@mostdopecaptain3350]

I was born in St J during the ice storm of 98. My family has a maple farm in island Pond. Will definitely be stopping by the general store soon. Thank you!

[@tommyedodson2412]

Just back from our first visit to Vermont and your 'don'ts' are spot on. I might add don't pay those highway tolls, driving the roads of Vermont and avoiding highways was great (yep it adds hours to your trip and you may not get above 40 but so much fun). Burlington may have a lot going for it, it also has a lot of homeless, drugs (we witnessed a drug deal right outside the parking garage) and mental health issues making it the one place we would not go back to visit again. We found the people of Vermont to be pretty friendly.

[@AetheriusAri]

We don’t have toll roads in Vermont, except for the very few private toll roads (like the Stowe Toll Road).

[@joecalcagni9615]

No tolls here in Vermont. Only paid roads are mountain roads that you pay to get to the top, etc...

[@joecalcagni9615]

Oops, just saw the comment above mine LOL

[@4000angels]

Thank you for this insightful comment. I have heard other people mention these things and I appreciate having an honest assessment of the area. I visited Burlington in 2020, and I definitely saw a substantial amount of homelessness and tent cities.

[@chesterfranks2251]

Burlington has become horrible post Covid. Vermonters don’t even go into Burlington anymore. Progressive transplants have ruined this once beautiful state 😢

[@thegoalielife8228]

I'm a vermonter, but I'm moving to Wisconsin hopefully during the summer, so much cheaper then here, plus I like someone out there

[@BluesStraightFromTheHarp]

As a multi generational Vermonter I had to weigh in on this video. Firstly…Vermont is not what Vermont used to be. There was a sense of community and of the old ways. Now, it’s a shell of its former self. This idea that Vermont is this great place! Why? Sure if you’re from out of State and you “relocated” here and have the big $$$$$$$ to actually live in Vermont, why not? But if you’re not loaded or weren’t born into a family business you’re probably not going to be able to afford to live here let alone finding a place to live in! Rent for a 1br apartment in the middle of nowhere’s is well over 1400.00/mo + utilities. Employment you ask? Well, its pretty much down to retail and construction. Walmart or restaurants or trade oriented which is ok IF you’re in your 20’s. Also, don’t assume it’s this “safe space” because it’s not. I’m living proof having been shot in an attempted murder, my biological father was murdered when I was 8…every night on the news there’s some form of violent crime here. Speaking of crime & Vermont…it’s void of any outlets for young people and riddled with heroin and fentanyl addicts. I know, I have a loved one who is struggling with this poison. Oh and riddled with methadone & suboxin (spelling) clinics to “treat” said addicted people. Now Vermont feels like a place where dreams go to die. It’s not this fairy tale that so many want to believe it is. I’m glad you found some good things yet…people should know that there is a lot of not so good here too. IMO more then the good. The biggest do not for visiting Vermont. Do not assume your safe because it’s “Vermont”. That was 40 years ago. Thanks & be well…

[@4000angels]

Thank you for this honest and insightful comment, I really do appreciate it. It is hard to find comments like these. I visited Burlington in 2020, and I was surprised when I saw significant amounts of homelessness and tent cities. I can only imagine how it is now, in 2023. If there is any additional information you would like to add, please feel free to reply back to me. Thank you again.

[@bradbraun6851]

2023 even middlebury has tents and crime starting up.

[@MountainDuke-music]

The Back roads are scary😆😆😆 without Gps, Naaa all roads leave to somewhere just Keep a full tank of gas. the best part of Vermont is the back roads!Get Lost on purpose it's the best way to experience VT God Bless you 🙏

[@jazziered142]

I cannot recommend enough to rent an electric bike and ride along the waterfront bike path to and across the Colchester causeway in Burlington. It;s so amazing and STUNNING.... I loved it so much I did it three times. Make sure the bike ferry is running. Aslo the sunset dinner cruise on Lake Champlain is fun..

[@MeansToTravel]

Hahaha yes, thank you for reminding me to shake my camera a lot when I see the monster so I can sell the footage! Best tip!!! 😂😂

[@atkinsmum]

I live in Vermont and you are spot on!!

[@Amy-601]

Love ❤️ Vermont, the food 🥘 and the farmers market! And the history. Love ❤️ the deets. Thank you 😊 for sharing. I’ll remember to bring my pass- card next time. Also love ❤️ Colorado for skiing ⛷ . Also love 💗 Salem ( Mass) during Halloween 🎃 lol 😂!! It’s fun 🤩!! Plus a lot of history. Thanks, Amy

[@matthewnelson-rogalski1777]

S. Vermont doesn't get a ton of love. Appreciated all the visual representation you brought to us in this video!

[@hassanalihusseini1717]

Your video makes Vermont appearing so attractive. That was up to now one of the States I have never considered to visit in the USA. Very nice information! Edit: I forget to mention Poutine.... Yes my brother and I tried on a stopover in Canada (Montral). And we were not amused.... thinking like "if that is the National Food of Canada.... we rather would not try other food." No... Poutine for us was horrible.... But may be were just in a wrong place. Edit End.

[@nickpvb]

Poutine isn’t for everybody. Heck some people don’t like coffee. We’ve only had it during the summer in Montreal where it was exceptional. It must be even better in the winter.

[@climbfl410]

I have been to Burlington, Montpelier, Warren, Norwich University and Northfield (Vermont 🇺🇸) for Indian summer 🍁🍂 a couple of weeks ago and I loved it 💛 Wonderful state and part of the USA 😃 Lukas from Dortmund, Germany 🇩🇪

[@HALO-2304]

I'd highly suggest visiting Spurbury, VT. Just don't get stopped by Officer Farva!

[@scottpardee6303]

I taught at Middlebury College 2000-2015, and loved driving around the state on weekends. I didn’t visit enough towns to qualify for the 251 Club, of people who visit all of them. So, some of the scenes here awaken great memories. Thank you for sharing. And I’m glad to see the positive comments from Vermonters.

[@labouroflove948]

Don't freak out when I pass multiple peepers on a double yellow line, it's completely legal in Vermont.

[@sweetNess856]

Good to know.

[@sweetNess856]

Good to know.

[@jamesphillipshort]

I love Vermont. My mother's family came from Springfield/Chester area. It truly is a beautiful state!

[@woltersworld]

Vermont is nice

[@leighmosher2182]

While in Burlington, recommend visiting Vermont since it's very close by 😀 (New Yorks Eastern Shore)

[@frankbeardsley2941]

Burlington is on their 24th or 25th shooting for the year. That's what happens when socialists take over.

[@ltltornado3337]

I didn't realize this video was so new! I booked my first trip to Vermont in a couple weeks and was so happy to find it! Thanks for helping me look forward to it!

[@jacquelinej143]

You don't really Have to refrigerate maple syrup. When I was growing up we always had a big metal can in the cupboard or pantry, never any problem. (We've also had it in jugs and also no problem. We always buy 100% pure Vermont maple syrup.) If it does happen to get moldy (which I've never seen happen) you can just skim off the mold and boil it and it's good as new.

[@kjmav10135]

I’m the daughter of a Vermonter and I have never refrigerated maple syrup. I buy is by the gallon, and it’s never gotten moody. Of course, it doesn’t usually last long!

[@jonathanp1884]

You simply re boil it. If sets for years it turns into crystal

[@BerigVintrange]

I hitchhiked across Vermont headed to Maine, agree, it's a beautiful state, crossed on a ferry somewhere south of Plattsburgh over to Burlington, so cool, then, spent the night at Goddard College in Plainfield (which I gather is now closed), students were super crunchy-granola and friendly, it was one of my early solo trips as a teen and a great adventure. No doubt Vermont is still a very charming place to visit.

[@nessisasquid]

as a new jerseyean who lived in vt/nh for about 9 months, i found vermonters very friendly! they didn't seem to be in any rush and if anything i felt like i was the one rushing them lol

[@franciswright6672]

Seriously, where were you cuz I lived here for 22yrs and I have met nothing but assholes. There is nothing but rude ignorant drug addicts. No body I’d friendly, no Vermonter will help you if you were dying in the side of the rode. I’m handicapped and walk with are crutches, my car broke down and I was on the side of the rode trying to wave down someone for help not one person stopped for over an hour finally i waves a $20 bill and someone stopped. So I don’t know what state you’re talking about but it sur isn’t Vermont.

[@nessisasquid]

@@franciswright6672 i was in white river junction 🤷 i'm sorry that happened to you...

[@jlangenfeld5479]

I used to frequent Vermont. One thing I would like to add to the mud season is, be prepared for most of the business to be closed. During mud season April to mid/late May, most of the local businesses are closed during that time. Absolutely beautiful state through all 4 seasons!

[@BlueMoon_24]

Montpelier is the Capitol 😊. And no McDonald's in it! Only Capitol in US without one.

[@robw9728]

There’s one about 30 seconds across the Montpelier town lines with Barre/Berlin. Although it’s not “technically” in Montpelier, it’s throwing distance away. It’s a claim to fame, while also having a McDonalds.

[@woltersworld]

yeah, i totally messed that one up and my kid even told me from his states quiz! i suck

[@eightzerotwo]

As a VT resident I’d like to add that people on bicycles can be very careless on the roads and when crossing roads. Drives me crazy sometimes…

[@zavaz987]

As a life-long Vermonter, I can add some insight about the perceived VT standoffishness. For many years, husband and wife actors Paul Newman and Joanne Woodward had a vacation house in Shelburne, VT. I recall an interview with them from some time in the 90's in the local newspaper. When asked why they liked it here it so much, they said they'd been visiting for decades and no one had ever approached them at a restaurant and asked for their autographs or even acknowledged who they were, even though everyone clearly knew who they were. A few years ago, Paul McCartney was visiting the Manchester, VT area and said something similar in an interview. My experience is that Vermonters tend have a strong sense of privacy and wouldn't presume to intrude on someone else's privacy. In a service setting (restaurant, shop, etc.), it's typically up to the customer to make the first move to initiate a more personal conversation, which the Vermonter may or may not follow-up on, but usually will if they're not too busy. As someone who's also a bit of a francophile, Vermonter's are aloof in much the same way that some American's think Parisians are rude or aloof. My experience is they aren't; you just need to understand their sense of privacy and how and when to talk with them. Another bit of advice, if you're traveling alone or with one other person, sit at the bar or counter of a restaurant. That's a signal that you're open to conversation. The counter staff or bar tender or your neighbors sitting at the bar are far more likely to chat than if you sit at a table.

[@jonellis7222]

Thanks Mark, have watched lots of these for USA and Europe. Always entertaining and informative.

[@dwhetsel695]

I have 49 states under my belt, just need to check off Vermont. Sooo, maybe not in the Spring, as I had planned. Thanks, Mark!

[@dwhetsel695]

@@howarddamico1237 😂It might be a long wait! I don’t know how I missed Vermont, but i guess I’m just talented like that😂

[@jonathanp1884]

Saving the best til last.

[@APBlake]

Good luck finding a Creemee out of season. Many New Englanders love ice cream year-round, but Vermont creemees seem to only exist in the Summer.

[@briehoblin8478]

The only thing you missed is "DON'T get stuck driving through The Notch during leaf peeping season." I know your video is intended for tourists and not truckers coming here but it doesn't hurt to mention that almost every year trucks get stuck on the notch road and have to be removed with special crews. The road gets down to one lane and goes around enormous boulders at the top. A regular car fits but a tractor trailer doesn't. Drivers get a $2400 fine if they get stuck.

[@annierichardson5296]

I remember hearing about someone who ignored the warning signs and tried to get their motor home through the Notch. They for it wedged in so tight it had to be cut apart. They lost their very expensive vehicle AND had to pay a whopping fine. Take the warning signs seriously!

[@MB-qr6et]

You are very entertaining, and as a Vermonter, I have to say, you did a good job....thank you! now, that said, as a local, I'm glad we don't rely on Stowe or other touristy towns to entertain us..... thank god, we have our own 'hidden gems' that we don't share, and , they are out there!!

[@southport5232]

Came here to say that. The best parts of our state are most certainly not in Stowe.

[@stevebartley628]

Don’t miss visiting the cemetary in Barre

[@nnc43fan]

Hope Cemetery

[@kaylarobinson7859]

Vermonter here: the best creemee spot is literally anywhere. You really can't go wrong, and out of staters won't be able to tell the difference between a good one and a really good one ;) plus we don't want lines at our favorite places so we'll never let you know... The best advice I have is that if you want to see the real Vermont, don't stick to Burlington, Stowe, and Killington. Go to the lesser talked about towns. You'll have less crowds of other out of staters and see how VTers actually live.

[@MrTomtusti]

yeah visit towns like Rutland.

[@markbarone9634]

Spot on, I wont give out any locations to go because I dont particularly want to be in line with all the tourists.

[@Evan_L]

Nah don't listen to kayla, Burlington Stowe and Killington are the best. go there!

[@gaysullivan1942]

In response to visiting Rutland….it is a great little city with many good restaurants, a huge farmer’s market and a wonderful live music/entertainment venue, the Paramount.

[@larryfodge6879]

My wife is a traveling nurse we love it here it’s so beautiful here tho I think Burlington isn’t what vermont is about the rest of the state is wonderful

[@nickpvb]

We visited Vermont in 1992 and then again in 2019. Prices have gone up especially in the touristy areas. However it’s still a great place to visit. The biggest mountain is Killington has the alpine skiing, the cross country skiing at the relatively flat base in the winter, then summer and fall the backpackers and mountain bikers are on their own trails! I hiked from our wonderful mountain meadows hotel which is on the Appalachian Trail to the top of Killington. It was great! It was august but cold so I grabbed a hot coffee at the lodge then rode the ski lift to the base. The lift riders heading up were all mountain bikers. Awesome!!! We loved our trip so much!

[@keeganhoward5850]

Our biggest mountain it Mt.Mansfield

[@jeffmaling9577]

Allenholm Orchard in South Hero is the place to go for the best maple cremee you’ve ever experienced. It’s 20 minutes north of Burlington in the Champlain Islands. Lots of good food, biking, swimming, and one of the largest state parks for camping in VT (and it has a nice market nearby). Farmers Markets on Wednesday in South Hero and Saturday in Grand Isle.

[@MrReymoclif714]

Up near the sand bar.