Travel Diary: Vermont and Beyond - July 18-26, 2026

Travel Diary is a personalized and comprehensive diary designed to document my travel experiences, adventures, and reflections. It also captures places, memories, connections, and discoveries that make my travels unforgettable and memorable. The diary addresses how every place is accessible or inaccessible during my travels. I am a physically disabled traveler and I use a foldable wheelchair. I can walk with assistance and transfer to any seated positions from my wheelchair. In this travel diary, I aim to educate readers including those with disabilities about the accessibility and inclusivity of travel. It emphasizes the importance of researching destinations, creating personalized itinerary, and booking travel arrangements such as flights, hotels, and dining reservations. I assure that the trip will be unique, unforgettable, fun, meaningful, and memorable. 

This diary documents what I did and how I felt during my trip. It also includes detailed descriptions of where I visited and explains how everything was accessible or inaccessible. Travel Diary will be published shortly after I return from my trip. 

Let's read my travel diary of Vermont and Beyond. I went on this trip with my caregiver, Nya and my caregiving friend from Florida, Danielle who grew up in Vermont. 

Saturday, July 18 (Day 1) - Nya and I left my house in Cincinnati at 5:30am. My parents dropped us off the airport. We arrived at the airport around 6am. Our flight departed around 8:20am. We arrived at the Detroit airport around 9:30am. We found out that our flight to Burlington, Vermont was delayed until 11:40am. We made it safely to Burlington around 1:20pm. At the airport, we reunited with Danielle. We all left the airport around 2pm. We took a 2-hour driving tour around Vermont. We picked up dinner from Hoagies, a local pizzeria on our way to Danielle's house and we made it to the house around 4:15pm. We ate pizza, salad, and boneless wings for dinner - I got pesto pizza- ġood. Danielle made a maple crunch ice cream pie - I tried it and it tasted sweet and delicious. 

Sunday, July 19 (Day 2) - We left the house around 10am and drove an hour to Pittsburg, NH - Bear Rock Adventures. In Pittsburg, we drove All-terrain vehicle (ATV) around the wilderness for over 2 hours. ATV was like a thrill ride. I was wearing my peach lounge outfit. We wore helmets for safety during our ATV ride. We all got covered in mud- my outfit was muddy lol 😂 it was such a wild, dirty, and fun ATV experience- I was feeling fearless and thrilled! I loved it.  

Afterwards, we went to a souvenir shop and then visited the Jackson Lodge in Canaan, VT. It is a small lodge. At the lodge, we took a tour. There is a ballroom that displays elk head. We went for a walk to find a US/Canada concrete small statue. There’s a lake around the lodge called Lake Wallace. The kind elderly guy talked to us about the history of the lodge- what a beautiful spot to visit the lodge and learn the history.

We went to Cow Palace for dinner, 10 minutes away from Danielle’s house. Before eating dinner, there were an elk area outside adjacent to the restaurant where we viewed and fed elks - how fun. There’s a horn arch outside the entrance to the restaurant (first picture). It looks somewhat similar to where I went in Jackson Hole, Wyoming in the summer of 2018 (second picture). That’s how the local horn arch made me remember when I visited a horn arch in Jackson Hole.  At the restaurant, I got fried broccoli cheese bites appetizer- mmmm yummy and baked stuffed haddock stuffed with crab stuffing and baked potato _ that’s delicious. I felt like eating a great comfort food for dinner.

We all had so much fun today. 10! It was 66 degrees outside today- It was not too cold for me.

Quick Fact: There’s a lake called Seymour Lake that is close to the house (we saw it on our route 2 times today_- it’s a beautiful and big lake! The lake reminds me of how positive I feel every day. 

   

ATV Ride @ Bear Rock Adventures in Pittsburg, New Hampshire 

Posing with Elk in Northeast Vermont (Derby, VT) 

Top Picture - Horn Arch @ The Cow Palace in Derby, VT 

Bottom Picture - Horn Arch @ Jackson Hole, Wyoming - the picture was taken in Summer 2018. 

The Ballroom at Jackson Lodge in Canaan, VT

US-Canada Sculpture - Outside Jackson Lodge in Canaan, VT 

Monday, July 20 (Day 3) - We visited Granby, Quebec Canada (1.5 hours drive from the house) for the zoo- nice zoo. 

Zoo de Granby is one of Canada’s most renowned zoological parks, located in the charming city of Granby, Quebec. This expansive zoo offers a captivating mix of wildlife from around the globe, organized into themed areas such as Africa, Asia, South America, and Oceania. Visitors can encounter elephants, giraffes, tigers, gorillas, and a wide variety of exotic birds and marine creatures. 

Accessibility at Zoo de Granby is generally good for visitors using wheelchairs or mobility aids. Paved paths run throughout the grounds, and many exhibits are designed for easy viewing from seated positions. Wheelchair rentals and accessible restrooms are available on-site, though some areas, such as certain elevated viewing platforms or older structures, may require assistance. This balance of engaging wildlife experiences and thoughtful accessibility features makes Zoo de Granby a memorable and inclusive destination for travelers of all abilities.

Quick Fact: Quebec, Canada’s main language is French. I learned French through signs. Fortunately, we parked in a disabled parking spot at the zoo with my USA disabled parking permit

Then we went to the East Side restaurant in Newport, VT for dinner. There’s a bigger lake adjacent to the restaurant - it’s called Lake Memphremagog. At the restaurant, Danielle shared a Canadian poutine (French fries topped with gravy and cheese) with me- I liked it- very good. I had a braised short rip ravioli topped with tomato, spinach, mushrooms, and scallions in a mouthwatering sauce - delicious 😋  we had a nice day today. 

Zoo de Granby - Granby, Quebec, Canada 

Tuesday, July 21 (Day 4) - we stayed in the house all day because the weather was windy and cloudy- 74 degrees high. I did my work, exercised, and enjoyed myself in the house. Danielle made a teriyaki grilled chicken with roasted potatoes and green vegetables for dinner- it was delicious. We also had wine for dinner. 

Wednesday, July 22 (Day 5) - The weather forecast was some clouds and sun with a little rain - 74 degrees high. We left the house at 9am. We drove about 90-minute drive southeast to Jeffersonville/Smugglers' Notch as the first stop of our route to Barre/Berlin. 

Smugglers’ Notch is a scenic mountain pass in northern Vermont, nestled between Mount Mansfield and Spruce Peak. Known for its winding roads, dramatic cliffs, and dense forests, this area offers a breathtaking mix of natural beauty and outdoor adventure. The drive through the Notch is a highlight on its own, with steep rock faces and lush greenery that create a peaceful yet thrilling experience. Visitors can explore nearby hiking trails, picnic spots, and seasonal activities such as skiing in the winter or leaf-peeping in the fall. The area provides a quintessential Vermont mountain experience, full of charm and natural wonder.

Then, we made a second stop at Stowe Mountain Resort and Gondola (20-minute drive from the first stop). Stowe Mountain Resort, nestled in the heart of Vermont, is a premier destination for outdoor adventure and stunning mountain views. Its scenic gondola ride transports visitors up Mount Mansfield, the state’s highest peak, offering sweeping vistas of the lush valleys, rugged cliffs, and surrounding Green Mountains. The gondola cabins are enclosed, providing a comfortable ride with panoramic windows perfect for photos and sightseeing. One of those gondola cabins can accommodate a wheelchair. Accessibility at the resort is moderate; while paved areas and ramps make reaching the gondola feasible with assistance, some uneven terrain and steps may require careful navigation for wheelchair users. The breathtaking views from the top make the journey truly memorable - the mountains are beautiful.  I got a memorable gondola magnet from the resort. 

Afterwards, we made a third and final stop at the Von Trapp Family Lodge and Resort (10-minute drive from the second stop) for lunch, sightseeing, and shopping. The Von Trapp Family Lodge and Resort, located in Stowe, Vermont, offers a unique blend of history, natural beauty, and Austrian-inspired charm. Nestled among the rolling hills and scenic mountains of the Green Mountain State, the lodge provides breathtaking panoramic views that are both serene and stunning. Its location is surrounded by lush forests, open meadows, and gently sloping hills that create a postcard-perfect backdrop for visitors.

The resort is best known for its connection to the famous von Trapp family, whose story inspired “The Sound of Music.” Guests can explore the lodge’s inviting spaces, stroll along its tranquil walking trails, or simply relax and take in the majestic scenery. The atmosphere feels peaceful and welcoming, with a blend of rustic elegance and European alpine style.

We enjoyed a lovely lunch at the Von Trapp Bierhall, which serves a variety of traditional dishes and freshly brewed Austrian-style lagers - I got a cheddar lager soup- it was very good and a chicken schnitzel- it was really delicious. The views of the surrounding mountains and hills are spectacular. Dining there felt like being part of nature—surrounded by verdant slopes and the calm beauty of Vermont’s highland landscape. The combination of delicious food, cozy alpine architecture, and stunning mountain vistas made our visit to the Von Trapp Family Lodge and Resort truly memorable.

I got a memorable Von Trapp Family Lodge and Resort ornament and reusable shopping bag. 

Stowe Mountain Gondola 

Von Trapp Family Lodge and Resort 

We made it to Barre/Berlin (35 minute drive from the final stop) - we stayed overnight at Comfort Inn hotel. Our hotel bathroom was inaccessible but it was changing for me to use the bathroom. 

We went to Cornerstone Pub & Kitchen for dinner. Danielle's family including her mom and cousins joined us for dinner - They knew me! I got a strawberry sangria and a Sugar Smack Mac (Vermont cheddar Mac and cheese with maple syrup and chopped bacon. The sangria was delicious. The Mac and cheese tasted very good - it was a big dish. But, I didn't finish it all because my food intake was almost full. Danielle suggested that I would  take the dish for breakfast - it would be better than hotel breakfast. I thought it was a great idea to eat it for breakfast in the morning - I call it Breakfast Mac! 😂 

Afterwards, we went to the park and listened to the band perform there. The music was good. Danielle's cousin's husband played the band. I received a pink bubble wand - I was trying to make bubbles by shaking the wand 😂 

After the music, we went back to the pub and socialized with the ladies- I drank a lemon drop martini- 😋

 

Me at the park in Barre, VT

Me with my caregiving friend, Nya at the park in Barre, VT

Me with my caregiving friend, Danielle (center), her mom (right), and my caregiving friend, Nya (top left) @ Cornerstone Pub and Kitchen in Barre, VT

Thursday, July 23 (Day 6) - At the hotel, I ate my leftover Breakfast Mac for big breakfast. We left the hotel around 10am. Danielle and I hiked the trail at the Barre Town Forest while Nya went shopping at TJ-Maxx. Barre Town Forest is a scenic natural area in Vermont that offers peaceful woodland trails and a chance to explore the outdoors in a smaller, more intimate setting. The trails wind through lush green forests with occasional clearings that provide beautiful views of the surrounding hills, concrete sculptures, and small lakes. Visitors can enjoy hiking, birdwatching, and immersing themselves in the tranquil forest environment. Accessibility is moderate—many paths are natural and uneven, which may require assistance for wheelchair users, but the serene atmosphere and natural beauty make the visit rewarding. Barre Town Forest is a quiet escape into Vermont’s nature, perfect for a reflective walk or a gentle hike.

Afterwards, we drove through the Hope Cemetery. Hope Cemetery in Barre, Vermont, is a historic and artistic burial ground renowned for its remarkable granite monuments and sculptures. Known as the "Granite Capital of the World," Barre's expert stone carvers crafted many of the cemetery's unique memorials, showcasing intricate designs, lifelike statues, and creative tributes to loved ones. Driving through Hope Cemetery feels like exploring an outdoor art gallery, where each gravestone reflects both local history and the incredible skill of Vermont’s granite artisans. Surrounded by peaceful greenery, the cemetery is a serene and inspiring place to visit.

Then, we visited Ben and Jerry's Ice Cream Factory and Flavor Graveyard. Ben & Jerry’s Ice Cream Factory in Waterbury, Vermont, is a vibrant and fun destination that showcases the brand’s history and commitment to creative flavors. Visitors can tour the facility to see how the iconic ice cream is made, sample fresh flavors, and learn about the company’s quirky and socially conscious culture. One highlight is the Flavor Graveyard, a whimsical outdoor space honoring retired ice cream flavors with colorful headstones and humorous epitaphs. This playful tribute adds a unique charm to the factory visit, making it a must-see for ice cream lovers. I got a scoop of Chunky Monkey ice cream (banana ice cream with fudge chunks and walnuts- it was delicious. 

Finally, we drove back to Danielle's house and I was staying there for the rest of my trip. We got dinner from Hoagies - I ate a roast beef panini with sweet potato fries.

Barre Town Forrest Hiking 

Ben & Jerry’s Ice Cream Factory in Waterbury, VT 

Friday, July 24 (Day 7) - We spent all day in Morgan, VT where Danielle lives. Morgan, Vermont, is a small, picturesque town nestled in the scenic Northeast Kingdom region of the state. Known for its natural beauty, Morgan is home to rolling green hills, dense forests, and the serene waters of Seymour Lake, one of Vermont’s largest and clearest lakes. The quiet, rural atmosphere makes it a perfect spot for relaxation, outdoor recreation, and connecting with nature. Morgan offers a charming, laid-back experience that captures the essence of Vermont’s countryside.

There's a country store/restaurant short walk from the house- it's called Morgan Country Store. They serve lunch and dinner, and they offer gourmet sandwiches, salads, burgers, appetizers, and homestyle entrees. I got a watermelon salad from the country store for lunch- it was so delicious. We came there for dinner. At the place, I got a garlic parmesan burger with fries - it was very good. I drank a glass of Chardonnay wine 

Afterwards, we came back to the house and had a campfire in the backyard together. We made Reese's S'mores! We were toasting marshmallows for s'mores! The campfire was full of warmth, relaxation, and positivity. 

Seymour Lake in Morgan, VT 

 

Campfire Time @ Danielle’s house 

Saturday, July 25 (Day 8) - This day marked the last full day in Vermont. We picked up lunch from the country store on our way to Lake Willoughby, about 20-minutes drive from the house. We arrived at the lake around Noon. 

Lake Willoughby, located in Westmore, VT is a stunning glacial lake framed by dramatic cliffs and lush forests. Its clear, serene waters stretch between Mount Pisgah and Mount Hor, creating a breathtaking fjord-like view that captivates visitors year-round. Popular for swimming, kayaking, and relaxing on the beach, the lake offers a peaceful escape in nature. Accessibility is relatively good, with paved paths near the entrance and drop-off areas for those with limited mobility, though parking requires a short walk from the lakefront. This tranquil and picturesque destination is perfect for enjoying Vermont’s natural beauty.

The lake is beautiful and breathtaking. But, it was packed today. I got a thanksgiving turkey wrap (roasted turkey, stuffing, and cranberry mayo) from the country store for lunch- yummy 😋 We spent about 30 minutes at the lake.

Afterwards, we got dinner from Vermont Pie and Pasta Company and ate it at home. I had a Five Onion Soup- it was delicious and it tasted like a French onion soup, chicken parmesan - it was really good, and a maple creme brûlée- it was sweet and delicious! It reminded me of my favorite dessert! Maple is a great flavor for creme brûlée. I loved it! 

Lake Willoughby in Westmore, VT

Sunday, July 26 (Day 9) - It was the final day of my trip! Danielle dropped me and Nya off at the Burlington airport at 10:50am after two-hour drive from her house. We shared a goodbye hug with her. 

Nya and I headed to the airport. We found out that our flight got delayed but it got rearranged. We got something delicious for brunch from The Skinny Pancake inside the airport. The Skinny Pancake is a cozy café and crêperie located in the Burlington Airport, offering a delicious selection of sweet and savory crêpes, sandwiches, and locally inspired dishes. Known for its warm, rustic atmosphere and commitment to fresh, Vermont-sourced ingredients, it’s a perfect spot for travelers to enjoy a comforting meal before their flight. Popular menu items include breakfast crêpes, classic ham-and-cheese or Nutella crêpes, and hearty wraps, all paired with coffee, tea, or local cider. The welcoming vibe and tasty offerings make The Skinny Pancake a memorable part of any trip through Burlington. - I tried a breakfast monster crepe (egg, Cabot cheddar cheese, spinach, caramelized onions, roasted squash, and basil-sunflower seed pesto) and oh my god it tasted so amazingly delicious!! 😋  I loved how they made the breakfast crepe - it looks like a to-go brunch food item. It was the best breakfast I ever tasted! ❤️ I highly recommend it! 

Instead of flying to Detroit airport for layover, we flew to Minneapolis airport. We departed Burlington airport around 1pm ET. Our flight arrived in Minneapolis airport (it's a huge airport) around 2:50pm CT (3:50 PM ET). We rushed to the gate where we were flying to Cincinnati, 45 minutes before departure time. And we made it to Cincinnati safely around 6:45pm ET. My parents picked us up from the airport and we came back home! It was a very long and crazy travel day! 

Where I Stayed During Trip 

Danielle's house (Morgan, VT) - The house looks like a historical schoolhouse and it is a beautiful house. Unfortunately, the house is not accessible at all- it has front porch steps. There are 2 big steps inside the house that are located between the memorabilia room where antique furniture, old historical home decorations, and over 100 house keepsakes display and living room/kitchen. There are some steps around the entrance and the exit door. There's a rear entrance door area with small steps where the ramp was placed over the door step- it worked. The rear entrance has better accommodations than the front porch. But, we can carry me and my wheelchair out carefully over the steps - we would do that each day before and after our outings- I would feel fine and comfortable with that. The house has upstairs that contains bedrooms where I can't climb the stairs. Fortunately, there is a sofa bed in the living room where I sleep. The bathroom is enough for my wheelchair but the shower is not accessible.  Despite a lack of accessibility in the shower, the shower chair is placed inside the shower. It's challenging for me - I feel strong enough to transfer to/out of the shower chair with assistance. 

Comfort Inn & Suites (Berlin/Barre) - We stayed overnight at the hotel. Our hotel bathroom was inaccessible for me because it looked very tight. My wheelchair couldn't fit properly into the bathroom. But, it was hard and challenging to use the bathroom. 

My Reaction to This Trip 

This destination features breathtaking views of mountains, hills, lakes, maple trees, and rustic architecture. It was the most beautiful trip I’ve ever had. This trip experience was truly memorable. 💕

Special shout out to my caregiving friend, Danielle who grew up in Vermont for showing and taking me every place in Vermont and Beyond. I loved everywhere she took me. She was the Best Tour Guide ever! 💕💝

Thank you for reading my travel diary. Let me know how you react to this diary in the comments below. I hope you enjoy reading it. I would greatly appreciate your comments and support. 

💖 Marisa