Driving through Vermont along Route 100 is like flipping through a storybook of classic New England charm. For those who love the idea of creating their own adventure while having a knowledgeable guide in their pocket, this self-guided audio tour offers a compelling way to explore at your own pace. Priced at just $16.99 per group and lasting around 9 to 10 hours, it’s an affordable way to see Vermont’s most iconic sights—from historic covered bridges to the bustling heart of Stowe, and even a visit to the original Ben & Jerry’s factory.
What really makes this tour shine is how it combines flexibility with local insights. You can choose to linger at spots that catch your eye or skip over others, all while listening to stories, tips, and directions that play automatically based on where you are. Plus, since the tour works offline, you won’t have to worry about losing signal or WiFi—perfect for rural Vermont roads.
Two features we particularly like are the automatic location-based commentary—making it feel like you have a friendly guide riding along—and the ability to customize your route. However, a potential drawback is that fitting everything into one day might be tight, especially if you want to truly soak in each stop. Still, this tour is ideal for curious travelers who enjoy spontaneous exploration and good stories about local history and culture.
This experience is best suited for independent travelers, road-trip lovers, or families who appreciate the freedom to explore without a strict schedule. If you enjoy discovering hidden gems and learning about local traditions on the go, this tour offers real value.
Key Points
Flexible Self-Guided Experience lets you set your own pace and choose what interests you most.
Affordable Price at $16.99 per group makes it an accessible choice for families or small groups.
Offline GPS Navigation ensures you won’t lose your way even in remote parts of Vermont.
Rich Local Content covers everything from covered bridges to historic homes and scenic mountain passes.
Multiple Stops provide a balanced mix of attractions—cultural sites, natural beauty, and foodie stops.
Long Duration suitable for a full day’s adventure, with optional stops to tailor your trip.
The Flexibility and Ease of the Audio Guide System
One of the biggest advantages of this tour is how it uses location-aware audio commentary. As you drive along the route, stories and tips play automatically based on your GPS position. This makes it feel like a knowledgeable friend is riding along, pointing out interesting sights and sharing local lore. Since everything is pre-downloaded, you can explore without worrying about cell coverage, which is especially handy in rural Vermont.
The tour is designed to suit various interests and schedules, with suggested itineraries for half, full, or multi-day adventures. Whether you want a quick overview or a thorough exploration, you can adapt your journey easily. This flexibility is perfect if you prefer spontaneous stops or want to spend more time in a particular town or attraction.
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The Itinerary Breakdown: What to Expect at Each Stop
Vermont Route 100: The Heart of the Scenic Drive
Beginning on Vermont’s famous Route 100, you’ll find yourself in a landscape dotted with some of the country’s highest per capita number of covered bridges. The commentary highlights several favorites, such as those in Warren, Waitsfield, and Jeffersonville. These historic wooden bridges are quintessential Vermont and make for fantastic photo opportunities. They’re also a window into the region’s past, when covered bridges served practical purposes and have since become symbols of local heritage.
Traveling along RT 100, you’ll see the lush Green Mountains rise around you, with the drive offering both natural beauty and a sense of timelessness. It’s a quiet, scenic corridor that rewards slow travel and attentive sightseeing.
Stowe: The Iconic Vermont Town
Next, the tour takes you to Stowe, a place that’s more than just a ski destination. We loved the way the guide describes Stowe’s dual personality—world-class skiing on Mount Mansfield and Spruce Peak, but also a charming, welcoming town center. It’s a hub for outdoor sports, especially in summer when hiking, biking, golf, and ziplining draw visitors from around the world. The town’s postcard-perfect main street, lined with boutiques and eateries, makes it a delightful place to wander.
The guide mentions that summer is actually Stowe’s busiest time—something that might surprise those only familiar with winter skiing. If you visit during fall, you’ll experience the stunning leaf-peeping spectacle, which attracts long lines of eager visitors every season.
Smugglers Notch: A Scenic Mountain Pass
The route follows Smugglers Notch, a narrow mountain pass with a name that hints at its intriguing past. Historically, this was a route used by smugglers, runaway slaves heading to Canada, and even liquor runners. Today, it’s a beloved scenic drive, particularly in autumn when the trees turn fiery colors.
The guide explains that a “notch” is a low point between mountain ranges, which helps paint the picture of this historic and geographical feature. The drive through Smugglers Notch offers breathtaking views and a little adrenaline rush as you navigate the winding roads.
The von Trapp Family Lodge & Resort
A highlight for fans of “The Sound of Music,” the von Trapp family’s lodge is a charming spot with a compelling backstory. Since fleeing Austria in 1939, the von Trapp family built this impressive estate in Stowe. Today, it offers accommodations, dining, and even a brewery. The family’s history adds a layer of warmth and authenticity to the visit.
While the tour does not include admission, it provides a wonderful photo-op and the chance to imagine the family’s journey from European mountains to Vermont’s lush hills.
Cold Hollow Cider Mill & Foodie Stops
Few experiences evoke Vermont quite like sampling hot apple cider or tasting fresh cheeses. The Cold Hollow Cider Mill is a classic stop where you can enjoy cider, donuts, and even fermented cider beverages. It’s a great chance to taste local flavor and see a working cider mill in action.
Next, at Cabot Creamery in Waterbury, you get to sample Vermont’s legendary cheddar and regional delicacies. The store offers a variety of cheeses, chocolates, and regional ciders or wines—perfect for a snack or souvenir.
The Ben & Jerry’s factory in Waterbury is another crowd-pleaser, famous worldwide for its inventive flavors. The guide mentions the tough choice of flavors (Chocolate Chunky Monkey is a personal favorite), and the fun “flavor graveyard” where retired flavors rest.
The Vermont Country Store & President Coolidge
The Vermont Country Store in Weston embodies Vermont’s heritage—selling local treats, souvenirs, and traditional woolen goods. It’s a cozy, nostalgic stop perfect for browsing or picking up a unique gift.
Lastly, the tour includes an optional visit to President Calvin Coolidge’s homestead, ideal for history buffs interested in Vermont’s only president. The modest farmhouse reflects Coolidge’s values—honesty, frugality, and quiet dignity. Visiting gives you insight into how this native Vermonter restored confidence in government after turbulent times.
Authenticity and Value for Money
One of the most praised aspects of this tour, based on the review, is its informative narration and ease of use. Kenneth_W called it “very informative and easy to use,” adding that he tried to do the entire route in 8 hours but couldn’t finish. This suggests that the tour is packed with content and worth taking time to enjoy.
At just $16.99, the value is compelling—especially considering you can use it forever, with free updates. It’s a smart investment for repeat trips or sharing among friends or family. There’s no need for a guide or group, which saves costs and allows for spontaneous detours and extended visits.
Practical Considerations
While the tour offers incredible flexibility, it’s worth noting that fitting a full day of exploration into 9-10 hours might require some planning—especially if you want to linger at each stop. It caters to independent travelers who enjoy setting their own rhythm and discovering at their own pace.
The offline GPS feature is a significant plus, removing worries about cell coverage in the Vermont countryside. The tour only requires a smartphone or tablet with iOS 15 or Android 9/Pie, and the download process is straightforward.
Who Should Consider This Tour?
If you’re someone who appreciates self-driven exploration and local stories, this tour is perfect. Families, couples, or solo travelers who enjoy customizing their itinerary will find it especially valuable. It’s ideal for those on a budget seeking authentic Vermont experiences without the hassle of organized tours. History buffs and food lovers will appreciate the stops at the cider mill, cheese shop, and ice cream factory.
However, if you prefer guided tours with a more structured schedule, you might find this format too flexible. Also, those planning a very tight schedule may want to prioritize key stops rather than attempting the full route.
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The Sum Up
This self-guided audio tour of Vermont’s Route 100 offers a wonderful blend of natural beauty, cultural highlights, and culinary treats. Its biggest strength is how it puts you in charge—driving at your own pace, choosing what to explore more deeply, and learning fascinating stories along the way. The price point makes it accessible, and the offline GPS ensures a smooth experience in rural Vermont.
It’s especially well-suited for independent travelers, road trip enthusiasts, and families eager to uncover Vermont’s authentic charm without feeling rushed. The tour’s flexibility and local insights make it a memorable way to experience the Green Mountain State, whether you’re visiting for a weekend or spending several days exploring.
The detailed narration, combined with the scenic stops and foodie highlights, makes this a valuable addition to any Vermont adventure. Just be prepared for a full day on the road—there’s so much to see and taste that you’ll want to take your time.
FAQ
Is this tour suitable for offline use?
Yes, the tour is designed to work offline using GPS, so you don’t need cell service or WiFi once you’ve downloaded the content.
How long does the tour typically take?
It’s designed for about 9 to 10 hours, but you can adjust based on how much time you want to spend at each stop or if you want to do the route in parts.
Do I need to buy a ticket for attractions like Ben & Jerry’s or Coolidge Homestead?
Admission fees for some stops, such as the Coolidge Homestead, are not included and vary (~$12 per adult). For others, like Ben & Jerry’s, admission is free, but tastings or tours may cost extra.
Can I create my own route or do I have to follow the suggested itinerary?
You can follow the suggested itineraries or customize your own route to match your schedule and interests.
Is there a limit on group size?
This tour is purchased per vehicle, accommodating up to 8 people, making it ideal for small groups or families.
What devices are compatible?
It requires a smartphone or tablet with iOS 15 or Android 9/Pie, and the app allows pre-downloading for offline use.
What makes this tour a good value?
At just $16.99, you get lifetime access with free updates, and it covers extensive sights in Vermont, saving the cost of multiple guided tours or admission fees.
How do I get support if I have questions?
Support is available via toll-free phone, chat, and email through GuideAlong (GyPSy Guide).
In summary, this self-guided driving tour offers a delightful way to explore Vermont, combining freedom with informative storytelling. Whether you’re a history buff, a foodie, or simply a lover of scenic drives, it’s a smart, engaging choice that brings Vermont’s best right to your fingertips.