Top Family-Friendly Destinations in Vermont

Vermont is renowned for its picturesque landscapes, vibrant community life, and excellent quality of living, making it one of the best places to raise a family. This New England state offers a unique blend of small-town charm, rich history, and modern amenities. Whether you’re searching for a bustling city atmosphere or a serene countryside retreat, Vermont has something for every family. This blog post explores some of the top places in Vermont that are perfect for families to call home. We’ll delve into why Brattleboro, Burlington, Essex Junction, Middlebury, and Montpelier stand out as prime locations, along with some other notable areas for consideration.

Brattleboro

Why Brattleboro is one of the best cities to live in Vermont.

Brattleboro is a vibrant small town located along the Connecticut River and is known for its thriving arts scene, historic downtown, and outdoor recreational opportunities. The town’s exceptional school system and abundant green spaces make it an ideal place for families. On weekends, you can explore the Brattleboro Farmers’ Market or venture into the nearby mountains for hiking and skiing. This charming town is also home to numerous cultural festivals throughout the year, such as the Brattleboro Literary Festival and the Strolling of the Heifers parade, which highlight the community’s unique character and strong sense of togetherness. The town’s emphasis on education, arts, and outdoor activities ensures that children grow up in a stimulating and nurturing environment.

Burlington

Why is Burlington one of the best cities to live in Vermont?

Burlington, Vermont’s largest city, offers a perfect blend of urban living and natural beauty. Nestled along the shores of Lake Champlain, it provides stunning waterfront views, vibrant neighborhoods, and top-notch public schools. Families can enjoy the Interactive ECHO Science Museum, various parks, and the bustling Church Street Marketplace for shopping and dining. The city’s focus on sustainability and environmental responsibility is evident in its numerous green initiatives, ensuring a healthy living environment for all residents. Burlington also boasts a dynamic cultural scene with theaters, music venues, and art galleries, fostering a well-rounded upbringing for children.

Essex Junction

Why Essex Junction is one of the best places to live in Vermont

Essex Junction, just a short drive from Burlington, is renowned for its excellent educational facilities, including some of the highest-rated schools in the state. This suburb combines a small-town feel with convenient access to urban amenities, making it ideal for families who want the best of both worlds. The community is strongly connected through various events and activities, such as the Champlain Valley Fair, which is one of the largest annual events in Vermont. Additionally, several parks, sports complexes, and a robust public library system ensure plenty of recreational and educational opportunities for children.

Middlebury

Why is Middlebury one of the best places to live in Vermont?

Middlebury, known for its prestigious liberal arts college, offers a rich cultural and academic environment. The town is steeped in history, with beautifully preserved architecture and numerous museums and cultural venues. For families, Middlebury provides high-quality public schools, safe neighborhoods, and a welcoming community. The natural beauty of Middlebury’s surroundings, including the Green Mountains and the Otter Creek, offers a plethora of outdoor recreational activities like hiking, biking, and fishing. The town’s vibrant downtown area boasts unique shops, cafes, and restaurants, ensuring that family life here is both active and enjoyable.

Montpelier

Why Montpelier is a best place to live in Vermont.

As the state capital, Montpelier offers a unique mix of cosmopolitan amenities and small-town allure. It is the smallest state capital in the U.S., which gives it an intimate and accessible community feel. Montpelier has an excellent school system and is a safe, family-friendly city. The city’s numerous parks and green spaces, such as Hubbard Park, provide ample opportunities for outdoor fun and exploration. Montpelier is also home to a thriving cultural scene, with local theaters, music venues, and public art displays, ensuring that there’s always something enriching for families to engage in.

Thinking of moving to Vermont?

Moving to Vermont means embracing a lifestyle that values community, sustainability, and work-life balance. Each town offers a distinctive quality of life that caters to different family needs. Reflect on what’s important for your family, whether it’s education, outdoor activities, cultural experiences, or a mix of everything. For those contemplating a move, it’s worth visiting these towns to get a feel for the community and see firsthand what each has to offer. From the vibrant arts of Brattleboro to Burlington’s lakeside charm, Vermont’s towns are ready to welcome new families with open arms.

Other great places to live near Vermont

If you’re exploring options beyond Vermont but still within New England, there are several noteworthy places to consider. Hanover, New Hampshire, home to Dartmouth College, offers excellent schools and a vibrant community. Amherst, Massachusetts, and Northampton provide rich cultural scenes and strong educational systems as well. In Maine, Portland stands out with its bustling waterfront and high quality of life. Each of these nearby towns and cities offer similar benefits as Vermont’s best locations, including emphasis on education, community, and natural beauty.