It's no surprise thatnational sources frequently rank Vermont among the top places to live in the United States. Our real estate agents take a deep dive into the features that make Vermont "A Place All Its Own" and the regions that make up this wonderful state.

Quechee

• Quechee is a stunning example of the varied landscapes around Vermont. While Vermont is known for its beautiful mountains and skiing, the Quechee Gorge is the attraction that lures the most visitors. Formed nearly 13,000 years ago by glaciers that moved through the area, the gorge reaches a depth of 165 feet where the Ottauquechee River flows. Quechee State Park is a popular location to learn more about the area's natural history while camping, hiking, and fishing.
  
  
• Of course, skiing is also a major part of Quechee's appeal, enticing locals and travelers from around the world with wintertime fun. The Quechee Ski Area, which includes Highland Golf Course, has 13 trails and three lifts. Families love Quechee Ski Area because it's small enough to accommodate beginners but still has enough challenge for more experienced skiers.
  
  
• The signature event of Quechee is the annual Hot Air Balloon Festival, which The Masiello Group is proud to sponsor. Up to 20 hot air balloons take to the skies five times throughout the three-day festival, while a number of other tethered flights are offered. Meanwhile, down on the ground, live music, artisan booths, and food and beverage vendors provide additional entertainment. 2021 is the 41st year of the festival, which takes place Friday, September 3 through Sunday, September 5. Admission is $15 for adults and $5 for kids ages 6-12. Tickets are sold on the day of the festival only.

Upper Valley

• If you're looking for a great blend of culture and nature, you'll find it in Upper Valley. Spanning parts of Vermont and New Hampshire, Upper Valley is home to Dartmouth College and Dartmouth-Hitchcock Medical Center. The Montshire Museum of Science, located in Norwich, VT, includes a number of interactive exhibits that make it a great place to blend fun and learning.
  
  
• When visiting the Museum of Science, people usually make time to stop by the Norwich Farmers' Market. Vendors from four surrounding counties offer the best in fresh fruits, vegetables, and flowers, along with artisan baked goods and dairy products. Pick up a gift for yourself or a friend from the artisans who display their handmade jewelry, pottery, and other works. The Market runs May through October, and hours are 9 a.m. - 1 p.m. every Saturday.
  
  
• White River Junction has a unique place in the world of pop culture. It's home to The Center for Cartoon Studies, where budding artists worldwide learn graphic design for comics and graphic novels. Some of the most accomplished cartoonists in the industry serve as instructors. In addition, the Inky Solomon Center is home to the Schulz Library, donated to White River Junction by the family of Charles Shulz, beloved creator of Peanuts.
  
  
• Get a unique insight into the people, culture, and values of the Upper Valley at the Main Street Museum in White River Junction. While many traditional museums document large-scale works, events, and ideas, the MSM takes a different perspective. The museum's goal is to study "an accumulation of small details" that tell a story about human beings and relationships.

Woodstock

• Often referred to as America's Prettiest Town, Woodstock is a picture-perfect New England town that's as charming as its name. Covered bridges, classic architecture, and other iconic New England features are well-represented in Woodstock.
  
  
• Explore the rural side of Vermont at the Billings Farm & Museum. The restored farmhouse, which dates back to 1890, once served as the actual home of the farm's manager. Animals raised on the farm include award-winning Jersey dairy cows, horses, and chickens. Grounds also hold an heirloom garden, apple orchard, and cornfields. During the winter months, take a traditional horse-drawn sleigh ride through the fields.
  
  
• From their headquarters in the Woodstock Town Hall Theatre, Pentangle Arts runs a program of movies, theater, and music that would be the envy of many other larger towns. Along with films, stage plays, and concerts at the theatreitself, Pentangle Arts puts on events at other venues, such as "Music by the River" at East End Park.
  
  
• A staycation in Woodstock truly feels like a getaway without having to travel far from home. Choose from a number of delightful inns and B&Bs that incorporate the essence of the New England experience. Chief among these is Woodstock Inn & Resort, a spectacular inn that combines history and heritage with modern amenities and services. The golden eagle in the ballroom is one of the artifacts preserved from the inn's lifetime, whichspans more than two centuries.

Ready to call Vermont home?Contact us for answers to all your real estate questions.