Tourist Attractions in Vermont

While the Vermont Country Store and local rest stops have nice things to buy, be aware that most of the VT pins and decals as well as mugs and handcrafts are not authentically Vermont-made. Look for the Vermont-Made label with the maple leaf seal or "Product of Vermont" on it to support the local economy. Local tour guides will show you where you can buy handmade products and watch them being made as well.

Don't buy crap, buy Vermont!

Unique Suggestions: Look for the label and don't be afraid to ask the seller the name of the town it's made in and where you can find the craftsperson who made it.

Fun Alternatives: Shelburne Farm in Shelburne on Route 7 and some of the local welcome centers will have authentic Vermont handcrafts as well as Crowley Cheese, VT Maple Syrup and Quilts. The places are owned and run by native Vermonters and support the local community.

Many of the antique stores charge premium prices for stuff out of their garage. Think twice before you buy something you don't know about (if it's only a couple of bucks, go for it)

Unique Suggestions: Pick one of the smaller stores where you can bargain a little bit more. Those tend to have better prices. If you are in a "Non" tourist area and see a sign for antiques, stop. That's were you find the best prices.

Stay clear of cute shops selling overpriced maple syrup and other products.Instead, buy syrup from private homes advertising with small signs along roads and highways, farms, or directly from places that make and bottle it {interesting and educational as well!} Farmer's Markets and country fairs are other good sources to purchase Vt. food and crafts.