Flights to Vermont: Your Ultimate Travel Guide
With its picturesque landscapes, quaint towns, and incredible outdoor activities, Vermont is an enchanting destination in the heart of New England. In this guide, we’ll cover everything you need to know about flights, airports, and travel tips to make your Vermont journey as smooth as possible.
Getting There: Airports in Vermont
Vermont is serviced by two main airports: Burlington International Airport (BTV) and Rutland Southern Vermont Regional Airport (RUT). Both airports offer a convenient way to explore the Green Mountain State.
Burlington International Airport (BTV)
Burlington International Airport is the largest and busiest airport in Vermont. It’s located just a few miles from downtown Burlington, making it an ideal entry point for visitors heading to Vermont’s largest city or its beautiful surrounding areas. BTV offers direct flights from several major cities in the United States, including New York, Washington D.C., Philadelphia, Chicago, and Atlanta.
Major airlines servicing BTV include American Airlines, Delta Air Lines, JetBlue Airways, and United Airlines. You can also find seasonal and regional flights with airlines like Frontier Airlines and Cape Air.
Rutland Southern Vermont Regional Airport (RUT)
Located in the southern part of the state, Rutland Southern Vermont Regional Airport is a smaller airport that caters to regional flights. Cape Air operates daily flights between RUT and Boston’s Logan International Airport (BOS). Although RUT has fewer flights and airline options than BTV, it’s a convenient option if you’re planning to explore the southern Vermont region or if you’re connecting through Boston.
Booking Your Flight to Vermont
When planning your Vermont getaway, consider the following tips to find the best flight deals:
- Book early: To secure the best deals, book your flight at least 3-4 months in advance.
- Flexible travel dates: Flights on Tuesdays, Wednesdays, and Saturdays are usually less expensive. Additionally, consider traveling during the shoulder seasons (April-May and September-October) for better deals and fewer crowds.
- Use flight search engines: Websites like Kayak, Expedia, and Google Flights can help you compare prices and find the best deals.
- Set price alerts: Enable notifications on flight search engines to receive alerts when prices drop for your desired route.
After Landing in Vermont: Transportation Options
Upon arrival in Vermont, you’ll have several options for getting around:
Car Rentals
Both BTV and RUT have on-site car rental agencies, including major providers like Alamo, Avis, Budget, Enterprise, Hertz, and National. Renting a car gives you the freedom to explore Vermont at your own pace and reach remote destinations with ease.
Taxis and Ride-sharing Services
Taxis and ride-sharing services like Uber and Lyft are available at BTV and in major Vermont cities like Burlington and Rutland. They offer a convenient way to get to your accommodations or nearby attractions.
Public Transportation
While public transportation options are limited in Vermont, you can find local buses in Burlington and Rutland. Green Mountain Transit (GMT) serves the Burlington area,and The Bus serves the Rutland region. These services provide affordable transportation within their respective areas, but keep in mind that routes may be limited, especially in more rural parts of the state.
Shuttles and Private Transfers
For those looking for a more personalized transportation option, several shuttle and private transfer companies operate in Vermont. These services can be pre-booked to take you to popular destinations, such as ski resorts, hotels, or other tourist attractions. Some accommodations may also offer their own shuttle services, so be sure to inquire when making your reservation.
Exploring Vermont: Top Destinations and Activities
Now that you’ve arrived in Vermont, it’s time to discover what this beautiful state has to offer. Here are some popular destinations and activities to consider during your visit:
- Burlington: This vibrant city on the shores of Lake Champlain offers a mix of arts, culture, and outdoor activities. Explore the Church Street Marketplace, take a scenic bike ride along the waterfront, or visit the ECHO, Leahy Center for Lake Champlain.
- Stowe: Known for its ski resort and picturesque mountain scenery, Stowe is a must-visit destination for outdoor enthusiasts. In addition to skiing and snowboarding, visitors can enjoy hiking, mountain biking, and scenic drives.
- Woodstock: Step back in time in this quintessential New England village. Woodstock’s charming downtown area is filled with historic homes, quaint shops, and top-notch restaurants. Don’t miss a visit to the nearby Marsh-Billings-Rockefeller National Historical Park.
- Montpelier: As the smallest state capital in the United States, Montpelier offers a unique blend of history, culture, and natural beauty. Tour the Vermont State House, stroll along the charming downtown streets, and explore the nearby Hubbard Park.
- Outdoor Activities: Vermont is a haven for outdoor lovers. Enjoy skiing and snowboarding at world-class resorts like Killington and Sugarbush, go hiking on the Long Trail, or take in the stunning fall foliage during a scenic drive along Route 100.
Final Thoughts
With its natural beauty, charming small towns, and endless outdoor activities, Vermont is an unforgettable destination. By following this guide and planning ahead, you can enjoy a smooth, stress-free journey to the Green Mountain State.