Quechee (pronounced Kwee-Chee) Gorge is often referred to as the Grand Canyon of the East, and with good reason. Located in southern Vermont, the chasm was formed by glacial activity about 13,000 years ago and is a popular tourist attraction for families. The gorge itself is breathtaking, and there are a variety of ways to view it. Quechee State Park is located along US Route 4 and has great views of Quechee Gorge. Those who prefer a bird’s-eye view can take a hot air balloon ride, which is very popular and relatively affordable in this area of the state.

Quechee Gorge Village has restaurants and shops where you can buy souvenirs. There you’ll find the Vermont Toy & Train Museum. Kids will love the mini-passenger train ride (open seasonally), and mom and dad will get a kick out of seeing some of the toys they played with as kids on display.

The Vermont Institute of Natural Science, located on 47 acres in Quechee, has walking trails along the Ottaquechee River, a popular Raptor Center, and a nature shop with gifts and books.