It’s a fact: There are more reasons to love Vermont than there are Ben & Jerry’s flavors. And one of them, which may surprise some travelers, is its diversity. Yes, the state’s population is roughly 90 percent white, but travel here and you’ll find a Black, Indigenous, and People of Color (BIPOC) cultural scene that’s as rich as the beloved ice cream that famously got its start in Burlington. From its Indigenous roots to its Black history, here’s how you can venture into Vermont’s postcard-perfect scenery to have an enriching and multicultural experience in the Green Mountain State.

Delve into Vermont’s progressive history

Photo: Vermont Tourism

Vermont has a storied past that’s steeped in humanitarian ideals. Not only did the state play a crucial role in the Underground Railroad and the Abolitionist movement, but it was also the first colony to ban adult slavery, in 1777. The momentous decision occurred at the Old Constitution House in Windsor.

The African American Heritage Trail commemorates Vermont’s Black history and spirit of inclusivity. Sites along the trail, such as the Vermont Folklife Center in Middlebury, preserve the multifaceted narrative of Black culture in the state through exhibits like the Daisy Turner archives, which tells the story of a woman born to enslaved parents. In Brandon, known as the “Art and Soul of Vermont” and home to a thriving arts scene anchored in venues like the Barn Opera, a historic district served as a hub for the local anti-slavery movement in the 1800s.

Equally profound is Vermont’s Indigenous heritage, with the Abenaki and Mahican tribes calling the region home for more than 10,000 years. Dig into this history by exploring Indigenous art and artifacts at the Shelburne Museum, which will soon unveil a new Center for Native American Art. You can also visit the SUSU CommUNITY Farm in Windham County, a seasonal Afro-Indigenous farm offering workshops and programs geared toward BIPOC Vermonters and visitors. Opportunities to get involved range from volunteer planting sessions in the garden, to full and new moon yoga classes, to events centered on powerful themes like grief and fostering connection.

Get historical in the great outdoors

Photo: Vermont Tourism

Between stops to explore the fascinating heritage of Vermont’s towns, make time to appreciate the state’s abundant hiking trails. Stretching across the state is a network of ancient trails winding from the Lake Champlain Valley to the Connecticut River Valley. These pathways were first forged by herds of animals, later tread upon by Indigenous groups as they hunted and traded with neighboring tribes, and expanded by European settlers. Get the lay of the land at the oldest of Vermont’s 55 state parks, Mt. Philo in Charlotte, where a three-quarter-mile hike to the summit reveals unbeatable views of the Lake Champlain Valley all the way to the Adirondacks. You can also drive to the top via a summit access road, meaning everyone (not just hikers) can appreciate the panoramas.

In Manchester, wander the grounds of Hildene, The Lincoln Family Home, which was once home to Robert Todd Lincoln, the eldest son of President Lincoln. One fun feature of the property is the mock railroad station where a 1903 Pullman sleeper car called Sunbeam is on permanent display. The excellently restored coach dates back to the days when Robert Lincoln served as a president in his own right — that of the Pullman Company, where many Black men found work as porters after abolition. The historic estate is also a year-round destination for hiking and cross-country skiing.

Near the southeastern town of Grafton you’ll find the Turner Hill Wildlife Management Area, a 1,052-acre park once owned by Alexander Turner, a formerly enslaved man who settled in Grafton in 1872. Recognized for its historical significance at the local, state, and national levels, this land is now entrusted to the Windham Foundation. Although there are no established trails, the area remains a popular hiking spot.

Embrace BIPOC events and entertainment

Photo: Vermont Tourism

During summer, live music fills the air across Vermont. One event to seek out is the weeklong Burlington Discover Jazz Festival, which draws a large crowd and many performers of color. But the music scene in Vermont isn’t limited to festivals and concerts. In Burlington’s South End district, the lively South End Get Down draws foodies and music lovers with a delectable combination of food trucks and live music performances. Pair this with the South End Art Hop in September, celebrating the local talents of Burlington’s creative community.

Burlington also comes alive in February with The Black Experience, a dynamic celebration of Black culture, community, and education. This event showcases the modern Black experience in Vermont through captivating performances, engaging presentations, and insightful fireside conversations.

In White River Junction, Northern Stage theater has a curated selection of indie-folk musicals, plays, and educational programs. With a commitment to inclusion, diversity, and equity, the theater aims to create impactful art that resonates with all audiences. Moving north to Waterbury, Zenbarn is a unique multicultural music venue located in an old dairy barn. Farm-to-table food packages, craft beer, and cocktails are served alongside an eclectic mix of music.

Let diversity guide your dining

Photo: Vermont Tourism

Vermont is famous for its maple syrup, cheese, and creemees, but the state’s food scene offers so much more variety through its BIPOC-owned restaurants. In Burlington, the comforting, aromatic dishes at Sherpa Kitchen provide a taste of Nepal, while the sophisticated plates at Black-owned Sotto Enoteca blend classic and Italian fare. Dining at these establishments is about more than savoring exceptional meals — it’s a chance to experience the cultures, traditions, and passions of the people behind them.

Also in Burlington, sample delicious crab and cream cheese dumplings at Hong’s Chinese Dumplings or authentic Vietnamese street food at Pho Son. Traditional-style Thai dishes dominate the menu at Saap in Randolph, helmed by James Beard Award-winning chef Nisachon Morgan. Sip maple lattes at Espresso Bueno in Barre or natural wines at Wilder Wines back in Burlington. If you’re in Winooski, head to Morning Light Bakery for Hong Kong-style pastries and tea, or enjoy another taste of Vietnamese cuisine at family-owned Sarom’s Cafe.

Lay your head in the heart of historic towns

Staying at the Latchis Hotel in Brattleboro feels like visiting a bygone era. Built in 1938, the hotel’s 30 guest rooms exude old-world charm with their original sinks and tiles, all while providing fabulous views of Main Street and the distant mountains. Beyond its striking Art Deco facade and interiors, the hotel pays tribute to the community’s vibrant arts scene by hosting a variety of screenings, live shows, and exclusive events at its cinema.

Twin Farms in Barnard takes a luxurious all-inclusive approach, pampering guests with personalized service, delectable dining, and tailored activities spread across a 300-acre estate. The property’s latest addition — eight whimsical treehouses — conjures childhood nostalgia. Created by renowned interior design firm Michaelis Boyd, the treehouses draw inspiration from the Japanese concept of wabi-sabi, which celebrates the beauty of imperfections.

In downtown Manchester, Barnstead Inn is an excellent choice if you’re looking for a unique blend of farmhouse charm and upscale luxury. With 23 spacious rooms and suites, it’s the perfect retreat for those seeking an intimate setting that’s still close to the action. For a mountain getaway with a modern twist, look no further than Main + Mountain. This chic boutique motel has 13 stylish rooms and a lively bar with indoor and outdoor seating. Guests here have easy access to local attractions like Okemo Mountain Resort and downtown Ludlow.

Shop where it matters

Photo: Tina Picz Photography/Firefolk Arts

BIPOC-owned businesses are an essential part of Vermont’s commercial landscape. Shop for one-of-a-kind handcrafted artworks — including pottery, textiles, jewelry, and woodcrafts — at Firefolk Arts in Waitsfield. Burlington’s Always Full Asian Market is the place to go for an assortment of Asian products and prepared foods, while Zinnia sells an eclectic selection of jewelry, including locally crafted and international pieces.

If you have a penchant for literature and a love of cozy and contemplative spaces, head to Antidote Books in Putney. This independent bookstore features a wide range of genres, focusing on poetry, fine literature, and social issues. Antidote also hosts frequent readings, book clubs, and community events, making it more than just a place to buy books — it’s a hub for engagement and cultural exchange.

Engagement and exchange are exactly what you’ll uncover throughout Vermont when you get to know its multicultural side. Start planning your visit now, and be amazed by how much you’ll learn when you arrive.