For those of you out there who are new to Vermont, looking to become a leaf peeper (a name used for tourists that only come to Vermont to see the foliage in October), or a true Vermonter looking for fun ideas of what to do, here’s a list for you! Being born and raised in a tiny town far north in Vermont—and I mean as far as the neighboring town to Canada—I have gotten around to exploring the gorgeous landscape. There are so many beautiful, adventurous, and delicious places to visit! Here is a list of my favorite four.

1. BEN & JERRY’S FACTORY

One cannot go to Vermont without visiting Ben & Jerry’s! Being the home of Ben & Jerry’s is one of the many things Vermonters are so proud of. I highly recommend visiting the factory in Waterbury, Vermont, and taking the short and delicious tour. I say delicious because, yes, they do give you a free sample at the end (my personal favorite is Milk and Cookies). Before leaving the factory, make sure to stop by the Ben & Jerry’s graveyard of unsuccessful flavors.

2. ANY SUGAR HOUSE

If you come during the sugaring season, most sugar houses offer tours and tastings. If you are a human being and do not know how maple syrup is made, a tour is a necessity. I kid you not, I have been asked before “Does maple syrup just come pouring out of the tree?” Please, if you are one of those people that did not know syrup doesn’t come pouring out straight from the tree, take a tour. When you are in Vermont, please make sure to try a maple creemee as well (you might know them more as soft serve, but save yourself the embarrassment when you go to order, and call it a creemee).

3. JAY PEAK RESORT

Jay Peak offers so many activities for families. If you’re in Vermont in the winter time, the slopes are amazing. If you’re in Vermont in the summer, the Long Trail is open for hiking and leads directly up to the peak, with a view of the gorgeous Vermont landscape. The scenery is breathtaking and cannot be described in words.

4. THE WATER FRONT—BURLINGTON, VERMONT

The Burlington area altogether is a great, fun city to explore. Situated right on the shore of Lake Champlain, the Water Front is a gorgeous area to visit. Church Street, The Flynn Theater, Echo Museum, and The Spirit of Ethan Allen cruise ship are all nearby activities. If you are strolling around the area, make sure to walk Church Street and check out the shops, along with catching a show at The Flynn Theater. Although bringing a picnic and hanging out in the open park area to watch interesting Vermonters stroll by sounds tempting, The Skinny Pancake is a delicious place to dine (I highly recommend the Hot Apple Crispy crepe).