Over 50 years ago, Vermont Senator George Aiken referred to this special region of Vermont as the "Northeast Kingdom" due to its incredible natural beauty, unique charm and independent spirit. Many feel that the region is the "essence" of Vermont – wild and free, just waiting to be explored. In addition to a wide range of outdoor adventures – including hiking, paddling, biking, paddling and more – the Kingdom offers many attractions and noteworthy stops. We’ve outlined some of those here – but most often, visitors get a real sense of this special place when simply ambling along through small villages and towns, stopping in at a family-owned country store, or stumbling upon a great antique barn or craft gallery.

In St. Johnsbury, stroll the downtown streets and visit unique shops, including the Northern Lights Bookstore and Moose River Lake & Lodge Store. Be sure to visit the Fairbanks Museum & Planetarium, Vermont’s premier museum of natural history. Over 165,000 mounted animals, tools, toys, dolls, dinosaurs and exhibits are offered here.

A truly unique experience is also offered at Stephen Huneck’s Gallery at Dog Mountain. Featured on the Late Show with David Letterman, you may visit the pet cemetery, dog chapel, 8-acre wildflower garden and a bronze sculpture garden. Also in town is the original Maple Grove Maple Museum and Factory. An exciting educational experience for the whole family, you can watch many maple products being made in the world’s oldest and largest maple candy factory. The sugarhouse and gift shop are open from May through late October. For outdoor pleasures, be sure to visit the Great Vermont Corn Maze in North Danville, a dairy farm with a five-acre maze.

Traveling north from St. Johnsbury, you will find the quaint village of East Burke, home to the Trout River Brewing Company, East Burke Sports (bicycle, canoe and kayak rentals may be arranged here) and several other unique shops.

North of East Burke is stunning Lake Willoughby – often referred to as the "Lucerne of America." This pristine glacial lake is 300’ deep in spots, providing a wonderful setting for outdoor pursuits or a leisurely scenic drive. Two public beach areas are available should you wish to take a refreshing dip – one on the south side of the lake and the other on the north. The Green Mountain Inn is proud to introduce it’s wonderful "sister" Inn – The WilloughVale Inn and Cottages on Lake Willoughby – located on the north shore of the lake. The Inn offers 11 unique Main Inn rooms (including several with fireside Jacuzzis, private porches and stunning views), four fully-equipped lakefront cottages and seasonal dining (open for dinner – please check back for current information). In nearby Brownsville, visit the Old Stone House Museum. Sitting atop a very scenic hill, this interesting museum was built by Alexander Twilight, the country’s first African-American college graduate and U.S. Legislator. The museum boasts artifacts depicting 19th century life in Vermont – providing a wonderful glimpse into the region’s rural heritage. Traveling through Irasville, a tiny hilltop village, antique buffs will enjoy the Castle Shoppe & Café, offering antiques and unique collectibles and a separate tea room for patrons.

In Glover, the Bread & Puppet Museum houses hundreds of giant puppets and masks in a 100-year-old, 100 foot barn. Shows are offered in late August and September.

Another small village that visitors enjoy exploring is Greensboro Bend. This very pretty country and home to pristine Caspian Lake offers two unique shops – the casual yet sophisticated Millers Thumb (many locals travel for unique gifts and home goods) and Willey’s General Store, chock full of country pleasures. If your timing is right, the Highland Lodge serves lunch, dinner and Sunday brunch.