A local's guide to seizing the summer

Summer in Vermont is short, but it’s arguably the best time to see the place, whether you’re a tourist or live here year-round. Residents notice a dramatic influx of friends and relatives in the 94 days between summer solstice and autumn equinox. Out-of-town visitors are a great excuse to book that campsite on Knight Island, climb Camel’s Hump or watch stock car racing atop “Bud Hill” at Barre’s Thunder Road.

The Seven Days Summer Vacation Guide aims to clue long- and short-distance travelers into what we consider to be the quintessential Vermont experience. What qualifies as a worthy pursuit? Sights and adventures unique to Vermont. Or attractions that are so over-the-top amazing they’d impress even jaded, world-traveler types. Shelburne Farms is a no-brainer. But our list, which covers the area where Seven Days is delivered, also includes the Birds of Vermont Museum and the Sunset Drive-in. The goal is to steer you in the direction of reliable summer fun that is quirky, essential or off the beaten track.

Choose a region below for our picks and links to Seven Days restaurant reviews, articles and video about that area.