best towns to visit vermont

Home » Travel Guides » United States » Vermont (VT) » 15 Best Small Towns to Visit in Vermont

15 Best Small Towns to Visit in Vermont

New England has a reputation for natural beauty, and Vermont stands out as exceptionally stunning.  There is a picturesque charm about Vermont that is difficult to resist.  Chock full of small towns, they generally have a village centre, a Main Street, historic architecture, unique boutiques and businesses, and a sense of community that defines its character. Regardless of the season, visitors can enjoy the outdoors, incredible food, and the best that New England has to offer.

Lets have a look at the most charming small towns to visit in Vermont :

Chester has the distinction of having two areas on the National Register of Historic Places.  Stone Village, named for the granite buildings there, and the Chester Historic Districts both have traces of colonial architecture and a New England early American aesthetic.

It often serves as base camp for outdoor adventures heading for nearby Mount Killington, Okemo, and Mount Snow. Boaters, cyclists, and ski bums stay in Chester for that small town experience, while taking advantage of the resorts and parks nearby.

One of the most popular activities is a day trip on the Green Mountain Flyer Scenic Railroad.  Gorgeous from beginning to end.  While you’re there, don’t miss the Stone House Antique Centre, Da Vallia Art, and the Vermont Institute of Contemporary Arts.

2. Woodstock

Woodstock has been a popular tourist destination for years – giving them plenty of time to perfect the quintessential Vermont experience.  The town easily combines charming and upscale to provide the escape that you need with all the amenities attached.  The boutique and antique shopping is among the best in the state, the dining options are incredible, and the entertainment is almost endless.

History buffs will enjoy the Billings Farm and Museum.  Once owned by Laurence and Mary French Rockefeller, the farm is now a dairy with a restored late 19th century farm house – both National Historic Landmarks. Art lovers will enjoy the many galleries (top pick:  Stephen Huneck Gallery), and foodies will want to spend a day in F.H. Gillingham & Sons.  This is a general store and gourmet shopping experience not to be missed.

3. Montpelier

America’s smallest capital is Montpelier, Vermont. Among the locals (and all Vermonters consider themselves local) it’s known for its many farm-to-table restaurants, and daily farmers market.

As the centre of government for the state, there is a little something of everything here. Visit the Vermont Historical Society Museum, the state house, Hubbard Park, the New England Culinary Institute, and T.W. Wood Art Gallery.

And that’s just a start! Make no mistake, this is still a small town, with the kind of hospitality and charm you expect.  But with such a thriving cultural scene, Montpelier is something special.

4. Brattleboro

Located in the southern part of the state, Brattleboro has a funky, crunchy, arts vibe that attracts people from all over the region.  It’s a walkable town with tons of clubs, restaurants, studios, galleries, and shops.  Its contemporary atmosphere is balanced by the beauty of Mother Nature.

There’s a gorgeous mountain or river view no matter where you are in town.  When you’re out walking, an impromptu street performance is not out of the question, and you’ll love stopping at the independent bookstores, record shops, and crafts boutiques.

The town has several theatres, many with historic significance.  Every month there’s a First Friday Gallery Walk and almost every restaurant exhibits local artists.  Brattleboro is a town that will have you talking about it for a long time after.

A few minutes from Brattleboro is Putney. It’s got a similar vibe, but even more laid back. Check out the spinnery, the berry and apple orchards, and the winery while you’re there.  This is a place for slow walks and deep breaths.

It’s the kind of place you don’t tell people about because you don’t want it to ever change.  Sacketts Brook still has its original stone arch bridge and flows right through the centre of town. Putney general store and co-op are community staples.  It’s that kind of town.

At the bottom of Mount Abraham is Lincoln. The natural surroundings along the New Haven River will take your breath away.  The residents take pride in the beauty of the farms and forests in the area.  Settled by Quakers in the late 18th century, there are about 1200 residents now.

Lincoln is best known for its interesting treehouse. Built across four large maples and 30 feet up from the ground, you can stay there for $150 per night – complete with heat, shower, electricity, and even a mini fridge. Don’t forget to visit the Old Hotel, the general store, and Burnham Hall.

This is the place for festival lovers.  They’ve got a celebration for everything, and people come from all over the state for the Outhouse Race – the longest running one in the country.  All of downtown is listed as a National Historic District and you’ll definitely feel that you’ve stepped back in time.

Bristol is located in the foothills of the green Mountains and makes the perfect getaway spot.  Visitors love the village shops and the friendliness of the locals. If you’re around in June, don’t miss the Pocock Rocks Street Fair or the Bristol Band summer concerts (which have been happening since the end of the Civil War).

No matter the season, Stowe is a prime destination in Vermont.  Thanks to Stowe Mountain Resort there are outdoor adventures just waiting to be had.  Mount Mansfield is the tallest peak in Vermont and it’s a mecca for nature enthusiasts.  Ski, hike, or return again and again to do both.

The village itself is 200 years old and downtown you’ll find museums, galleries, theatres, outdoor film festivals, the Vermont Ski and Snowboard Museum, and plenty of fine dining. It’s year round beauty make it one of the absolute must-visit towns.

9. Waterbury

When Vermonters need to get away from it all, they go to Waterbury. Often described as a sleepy town, Waterbury is a low key, low profile kind of town. Town pride is cantered around locally sourced fine dining.

Its undoubtedly the best of the best of Vermont.  Because of the fantastic natural settings, Waterbury is a popular wedding destination. For top of the line accommodations, try Groenberg Haus, a chalet on a hilltop, complete with a stone hearth and grand piano.

10. Shelburne

Looking for luxury?  On the shores of the scenic Lake Champlain sits Shelburne – a suburb of Burlington. People come to be pampered and to splurge.  Home to the Shelburne Museum, Shelburne Farms, and the Vermont Teddy Bear Company, it’s also a family destination.

The farm boasts a one-hundred room guest house, a five storey barn, hayrides and a wonderful hiking trail. At the museum you can see live printing, blacksmithing, and weaving demonstrations.  The lake front beach is a perfect spot in the summer and several companies have boat rentals.  If it’s apple season, head over to Shelburne Orchards for the tastiest apples and cider in Vermont.

11. Manchester

Calling all shoppers!  Don’t miss out the factory outlets and other spectacular shopping opportunities in Manchester.  This is where New Yorkers, and Europeans in recent years, come for the best select and great deals.  From high end retail, charming boutiques, and all out bargains, you won’t be able to stop.

Manchester also has a fantastic cultural scene.  Enjoy concerts, galleries, theatre, history, crafts, and artisanal dining.  The village blends cultural sophistication with old-world New England charm for an incredible experience from beginning to end.

12. Grafton

Long ago, Grafton was the major stagecoach stop between Albany and the Green Mountains.  They’ve been hosting visitors for almost two centuries.  Located in the mountains, many of the original buildings have been restored to provide an authentic New England feel.

As you walk downtown you’ll feel like you’re walking in a museum.   In the winter, the snow covered mountains provide an ethereal ambiance that is unique to Grafton. The 600 residents all regularly participate in town hall meetings and work together to create a vibrant and lovely community.

13. Grand Isle

Grand Isle is about 35 square miles – almost 19 of which are water.  Located in the Islands and Farms region of the state, Grand Isle is a fishing town. The Ed Weed Fish Culture Station is located here, one of only five in the state. The oldest log cabin in New England is also here.  Hyde Log Cabin was built in the late 18th century and was home to the Hyde family for over 150 years.

The most visited state park is in Grand Isle. It’s the second largest in Vermont, with RV camping and primitive camping. The experience here is slightly different than the rest of the state, thanks to the abundance of water and the fishing culture.  That’s the perfect reason to add it to your list.  It’s another Vermont one-of-a-kind.

14. Charlotte

Synonymous with the Champlain Valley is Charlotte.  Established in the late 18th century, the growing town is primarily agricultural.  Orchards, dairies, sugar bushes, berries, honey, livestock, and grain are all flourishing economies here.  Charlotte even has a winery that received high praise from those who visit.

Mount Philo State Park (named for the almost 1000 foot peak) is another popular park with wonderful vistas, trails, and a nearby wildlife refuge.

15. Craftsbury

Picture rolling hills, picket fences, family farms, and green forests.  You’re seeing Craftsbury, Vermont. Made up of five villages with a combined population of about 1,200, the town is classic Americana.

Come for cross country skiing and snow mobiling in the winter, maple sugaring in the spring, the Antiques and Uniques Festival in July, and stunning fall foliage each autumn.

15 Best Small Towns to Visit in Vermont:

• Brattleboro

Genius tips, tricks & beautiful things, straight to your inbox every day.

© 2010-2021 Wow Media Products, Inc doing business as PureWow. All rights reserved.

The 15 Best Towns in Vermont That We Might Just Move to

PureWow editors select every item that appears on this page, and the company may earn compensation through affiliate links within the story. All prices are accurate upon date of publish. You can learn more about the affiliate process here .

Vermont is known for its verdant mountains, fall foliage and New England charm . Looking to peep colorful leaves , conquer peaks, shack up at a cozy B&B , sample fresh-tapped maple syrup and shop for antiques? The Green Mountain State never ceases to amaze.

Scroll on for the best towns Vermont to add to your must-visit list.

15 CHARMING SMALL TOWNS IN OREGON

1. Stowe, Vt

Ready to hit the slopes? Nestled in the northern corner of Vermont, Stowe is a ski-lovers paradise. Even when there isn’t a fresh cost of powder on the ground, Stowe lures outdoor adventurers with the promise of forested trails and 1,000-foot cliffs at Smugglers’ Notch State Park . While Moss Glen Falls offers scenic cascades and crystal-clear pools to take a dip. For more open-air excitement, we suggest a trip to The Current , a visual arts museum housed in a historic building.

Where to stay:

• Sun & Ski Inn and Suites (2 guests) : $145/night
• Green Mountain Inn (2 guests) : $159/night
• Trapp Family Lodge (2 guests) : $225/night

2. Woodstock, Vt

Woodstock perfectly encapsulated everything you’d want in a Vermont getaway. It’s a cute town packed with colonial architecture, farm-to-table restaurants and craft brewers (swing by Long Trail Brewing Company for a VT IPA). On the rustic appeal front, we’re big fans of the Billings Farm & Museum , which were once owned by Laurance and Mary French Rockefeller. Woodstock also has a thriving arts community. So you can scoop up landscape paintings, plaid textiles or hand-carved wood bowls to bring a piece of the Green Mountain State back home.

• The Village Inn of Woodstock (2 guests) : $189/night
• 506 On The River Inn (2 guests) : $269/night
• Woodstock Inn & Resort (2 guests) : $297/nigh t

3. Bennington, Vt

Some know Bennington as Vermont’s first town (it was chartered way back in 1749), others recognize it from the legendary stories of Ethan Allen and the Green Mountain Boys. Visitors can book a walking tours of the historic downtown and admire one of the best enduring examples of Victorian architecture at the Park-McCullough Historic Governor's Mansion . Another claim to fame? The Bennington Battle Monument is the tallest man-made structure in the entire state.

• The Harwood Hill (2 guests) : $106/night
• Safford Mills Inn (2 guests) : $150/night
• Four Chimneys Inn (2 guests) : $339/night

4. Shelburne, Vt

Shelburne is the unsung hero of Vermont destinations. That’s because this Burlington suburb that’s perched along the shores of Lake Champlain lives in the shadow of its big-city neighbor. But, if you ask us, there’s plenty to fill a weekend. Stop by Shelburne Farms to learn about sustainable agriculture practices, do a guided birdwatching walk and savor delicious field-to-fork fare. Don’t forget to visit the Flying Pig Bookstore and the impressive art collection at the Shelburne Museum .

• Heart of the Village Inn (2 guests) : $263/night
• Romantic B&B Suite (2 guests) : $299/night
• Hotel Vermont (2 guests) : $339/night

5. Manchester, Vt

We dare you to name a place more charming than Manchester. The enchanting downtown area is filled with cute boutiques, quaint inns, cafes and top-rated restaurants such as Ye Olde Tavern . Another major selling point? Access to stunning scenery. Insert Equinox Preservation Trust and Lye Brook Falls. History buffs won’t want to miss Hildene , the Lincoln family summer home. Be sure to stock up on fresh-picked veggies and homemade pesto at Earth Sky Time Community Farm before departing.

• The Manchester View (2 guests) : $90/night
• Aspen at Manchester (2 guests) : $125/night
• Reluctant Panther Inn & Restaurant (2 guests) : $229/night

6. Grafton, Vt

Tucked away in the mountains of southern Vermont, Grafton oozes alpine charm. It has just 619 residents (for reference, that’s a population density of 18 people per square mile). So, yea, we’re talking about a very small town. Size aside, you’ll swoon over the covered bridges, lovingly restored historic buildings—including the iconic white-steepled church and brick meetinghouse—grassy meadows and farm stands selling raw milk. The Nature Museum is certainly worthy of a visit, too.

• Grafton Inn (2 guests) : $149/night
• Luxurious Historic Home (5 guests) : $300/night
• Fully Renovated Schoolhouse (10 guests) : $171/night

7. Middlebury, Vt

Sandwiched between the Green Mountain foothills and the verdant low-lying Champlain Valley, Middlebury is a place of unparalleled beauty. This undeniably picturesque town does more than attract travelers with its visual attributes and access to a wealth of outdoor activities (hiking, biking, fishing, canoeing and skiing to name a few). It’s a burgeoning culinary hotspot with restaurants serving locally grown produce, pasture-raised meats and fresh cheese. Middlebury also houses the Henry Sheldon Museum of Vermont History .

• Courtyard Middlebury (2 guests) : $179/night
• Middlebury Inn (2 guests) : $202/night
• Inn on the Green (2 guests) : $223/night

8. Brattleboro, Vt

Dubbed “the artistic and energetic hub of southern Vermont,” Brattleboro exudes a creative sort of vibe (the word “crunchy” comes to mind) that’s often imitated but never replicated. This hippie-leaning town located just over the border from Massachusetts intrigues and delights at every turn. You’ll find breweries, distilleries, museums, galleries, shops and restaurants. There’s even a stunning Art Deco theater that screens indie films. Would you expect anything less from Brattleboro? Nope, us either.

• Inn on Putney Road Bed and Breakfast (2 guests) : $250/night
• Marlboro, Vermont Ski House (10 guests) : $465/night
• The Bears Den (12 guests) : $500/night

9. Quechee, Vt

A small town with a big list of scenic diversions, Quechee (pronounced kwee-chee ) earns our vote for a picture-perfect New England getaway. In the fall, leaf peepers flock to see the shades of red, orange and yellow. The annual Quechee Hot Air Balloon, Craft & Music Festival goes down in June. Housed in a restored 19th-century mill that overlooks a gushing waterfall, Simon Pearce's turbine-powered glassblowing studio , flagship store and farm-to-table restaurant is a splendid year-round attraction.

• Quechee Inn at Marshland Farm (2 guests) : $143/night
• Quechee Condo (6 guests) : $290/night
• Renovated House (6 guests) : $317/night

10. Montpelier, Vt

With a population of 7,900, Montpelier ranks as America’s smallest state capital. Maple syrup is big business in this twee town. Because no trip to Vermont would be complete without sampling the sweet stuff straight from the source, we highly recommend heading over to Bragg Farm Sugar House . Hungry for more local flavors? Nibble farm-fresh chèvre at Capital City Farmers Market . Definitely add a historic walking tour of downtown Montpelier to your itinerary as well.

• The Inn at Montpelier (2 guests) : $123/night
• Capitol Plaza Hotel Montpelier, Tapestry Collection by Hilton (2 guests) : $180/night
• Charming Mountain Chalet (4 guests) : $132/night

11. Chester, Vt

The past is very much alive in Chester, an endlessly charming town in the Green Mountains where history and hospitality are basically tied FTW. Houses made of locally quarried slabs dot the Stone Village Historic District. While Chester Village Historic District showcases a fascinating mix of Victorian and Federal-style buildings. You can’t walk a block without a friendly local flashing a warm smile and offering some advice about where to grab a bite or browse the best selection of antiques.

• Chester House Inn (2 guests) : $135/night
• Log Cabin (4 guests) : $400/night
• Renovated 1850’s Victorian Home (6 guests) : $243/night

12. Waitsfield, Vt

Whether you dig the great outdoors, delicious food or history (how about all of the above?), Waitsfield delivers. This heritage-rich town in the Mad River Valley is a feast for the senses. Navigates paths through timberlands, waterfalls and a beaver pond at Scrag Mountain Town Forest. Step back in time while touring the Madsonian Museum of Industrial Design . Pick up some local treats at one of the many farm stands. Then hop in the car and go for a drive along scenic Route 100.

• The Waitsfield Inn (2 guests) : $145/night
• The Swanson Inn of Vermont (2 guests) : $150/night
• Tucker Hill Inn (2 guests) : $179/night

13. Weston, Vt

Weston serves up heritage and scenic beauty on a silver platter. Haven’t heard of this tight-knit community until now? Let us fill you in on a few of the many reasons to visit. The idyllic downtown houses historic homes, general stores, eateries ( Mildred's Grill is a local favorite), antique shops, the famous Vermont Country Store and the Weston Playhouse Theatre Company . Prefer to spend time surrounded by nature? Explore the sprawling 7,466-acre Okemo State Forest.

• Mountain Cottage (2 guests) : $159/night
• Secluded Forest Hideaway (4 guests) : $110/night
• Country Home (7 guests) : $165/night

14. Dorset, Vt

For a major dose of quintessential New England magnetism, head to Dorset. It really doesn’t matter the time of year because there’s always something lovely to do. Winter calls for skiing at nearby Bromley Mountain . While Emerald Lake State Park provides ample opportunities for hiking in the spring, summer and fall. Such a unique combination of small-town ambiance and a seemingly endless array of activities makes it a terrific spot to visit (though, we wouldn’t mind living in Dorset either).

• Barrows House (2 guests) : $248/night
• Headwaters Lodge (8 guests) : $341/night
• Charming Vermont Home (11 guests) : $395/night

15. Greensboro, Vt

Set in the rugged northern corner of the state, Greensboro has a wide range of rural pursuits that appeal to travelers of all ages. Wander through Barr Hill Natural Area . On a clear day, you'll see spectacular views of the nearby mountains. When the weather warms up, Caspian Lake is a popular spot for water skiing, sailing and kayaking. Don’t leave without visiting Willey's Store to fill your tank and get some locally made products for the road.

• Highland Lodge (2 guests) : $153/night
• Lakefront Cottage (6 guests) : $250/night
• Yellow Farmhouse (7 guests) : $240/night

15 CHARMING SMALL TOWNS IN GEORGIA

Freelance PureWow Editor

• North America
• The 10 Most Beautiful Towns...

The Most Beautiful Towns in Vermont, USA

Art & Design Editor

If you want your American vacation to be both quiet and crammed with history, then Vermont is the place for you. The New England state is the second-least-populous in the USA ; combine that with the rural architecture and it’s a consistent throwback to settler-era tranquility.

Architectural Landmark

Chester is best known for the two historic districts, both of which are listed in the National Register of Historic Places. One of them, Stone Village, was named so because of the dominance of granite houses; the second, Chester Village, features a typically New England federal and colonial aesthetic. Chester is home to charming inns, antique shops, galleries and great restaurants. Additionally, it caters for cyclists, boaters and skiers, lying within driving distance of Okemo, Mount Snow and Killington. Stop by in September and you’ll also be able to attend the Chester Fall Festival.

The quiet and charming town of Dorset lies amid the hills of Bennington County in southern Vermont. Chartered in 1761, Dorset is the location of the oldest marble quarry in the country, which provided stone for the sidewalks and the marble church next to the village green, as well as the main branch of the New York Public Library . Take a swim in the quarry, partake in the Dorset Theatre Festival , and explore the historical scenery for a relaxing and restorative mini-vacation.

Natural Feature

Discover the scenic beauty and historic buildings here for a glimpse into the early colonial days. In the 1800s, Grafton was a popular stagecoach stop for those traveling to Albany, New York , through the Green Mountains. As a result, the area acquired a market for hospitality; it maintains the Grafton Inn , which dates back to 1801 and remains one of the oldest operating hotels in the United States. That’s not the only preserved building either; many of the the original architecture here has been preserved in order to keep an authentic New England atmosphere. Come by in winter to enjoy snow-covered hills and cross-country skiing.

Popular among New Yorkers , New Englanders, and even Europeans in recent years, Manchester is a great base for a road trip exploring the skiing and hiking opportunities in the Vermont countryside. The village has a vibrant cultural scene with shops, museums and galleries; the theaters regular show concerts and plays too. You can tour old buildings, peruse craft fairs ,and dine in one of many artisanal restaurants and cafes.

Become a Culture Tripper!

Sign up to our newsletter to save up to $1,200 on our unique trips..

See privacy policy .

The lively town of Stowe is an ideal destination throughout the year, but attracts particularly big crowds every winter thanks to the popular Stowe Mountain Resort . In town, you can wander arts and crafts fairs, museums and galleries, attend musical and theatrical performances, and take part in seasonal activities like outdoor film festivals. Stowe is also extremely ‘grammable, thanks to the rolling green hills in summer and vibrant fall foliage of fall.

Located on the shores of scenic Lake Champlain, Shelburne is a lush and affluent suburb of Burlington. In addition to a nature park and a lakeside beach there are three main attractions. Roam the 19th-century Shelburne Farms estate, complete with a 110-room summer residence, a five-story barn and a two-acre (0.8ha) courtyard with hayrides. History buffs can learn about Vermont heritage at the Shelburne Museum , where American art and an original steamboat are the draws. Lastly, who can resist the loveable Vermont Teddy Bear Factory?

Located in the heart of the Mad River Valley in Washington County, Waitsfield is a must for winter sports lovers in search of backcountry skiing. Not quite as extreme? The natural beauty surrounding Waitsfield has drawn numerous talented artists over the years, and today it’s home to a number of galleries and studios. Those who love the outdoors can visit farms, roam farmers’ markets and take guided hikes in the hills.

The small town of Weston is home to several charming B&Bs, inns and lodges – perfect for a cozy romantic weekend or a fun family getaway. Around town, there are shops selling crafts and artisanal goods, art galleries and craft studios – all of which are still family-owned and -operated. Weston is the perfect place for a quiet change of scenery in a picturesque town with a charming and well-preserved heritage.

The capital of Windsor County, Woodstock is one of the best local assets. It was settled in the mid-18th century and is considered the quintessential New England village; picture a quaint green, lined by a mix of restored Greek Revival and Georgian-style homes, all within short walking distance of old country farms. In the town center, sample maple syrups and cheeses at Sugarbush Farm , then explore the Marsh-Billings-Rockefeller National Historical Park. Go in fall to attend the Billings Farm and Museum’s annual Harvest Weekend, or simply enjoy the picturesque surroundings, beautiful all year.

The Most Romantic Hotels to Book in Vermont, USA

20 Must-See Attractions in Vermont

The Best Hotels in Vermont, USA, for Every Traveler

The Best Places to Go Camping in Vermont

Hip Apartments in Vermont You’ll Want to Call Home

The Best Motels to Book in Vermont

The Best Hotels in Mount Snow, Vermont

The Best Luxury Hotels in Vermont, USA

Where to Stay in Vermont for a Local Experience

The Best Spa Hotels and Wellness Retreats to Book in Vermont

The Best Bed and Breakfasts in Vermont

Culture Trip Summer Sale

Save up to $1,200 on our unique small-group trips! Limited spots.

• Post ID: 162173
• Sponsored? No
• View Payload

New England Wanderlust

Vermont  ·  March 21, 2023

60 Incredible Things To Do In Vermont & Best Places To Visit (2024)

Even though Vermont is the second least populated state in the U.S., it’s packed with so many incredible, bucket list-worthy things to do. People vacation the Green Mountain State looking for picturesque countryside, cozy small towns and stunning mountain vistas, and I’m thrilled to tell you that’s exactly what you can expect when you visit!

Whether you’re visiting for the first time and are looking for the top things to do in Vermont, or you’re a seasoned Green Mountain State traveler and are looking to make sure you’ve seen it all, this is the best list you’ll find of all the amazing things Vermont has to offer. Of course, there’s so much more than 60 things to do, but this will give you a pretty epic start 🙂

Vermont was the very first getaway my husband and I took together when we first started dating. It’s also where we honeymooned, and we’ve been back countless times since. I’ve really done and seen so much in this gorgeous state, and I’m so excited to share all the best things to do with you.

So, are you ready? Let’s start planning your next trip together!

New England Wanderlust contains affiliate links, and is a member of the Amazon Services LLC Associates Program. We may earn a commission from any purchases you choose to make from our links, at no additional cost to you. For more information, please refer to our  Privacy Policy .

Best Things To Do In Vermont

In no particular order, here are all my suggestions on the top things to add to your Vermont itinerary!

1. Tour Hildene

One amazing thing to see in Vermont that’s equal parts historic and breathtaking is Hildene, The Lincoln Family Home. Located In Manchester in the southern part of the state, this stunning estate allows visitors to tour the interior, as well as the grounds.

And what a lot of people don’t realize about Hildene is that even if you’re not a history person, it’s worth visiting just to walk around the grounds because it offers some of the best mountain views in Vermont.

Hildene is the former summer home of Robert Todd Lincoln (the son of President Lincoln), and his wife, Mary. It stayed in the Lincoln family until the 1970s, too! The interior of the estate is a perfect snapshot of history brought to life, and the grounds include beautiful gardens, mountain views and nature trails. It’s wonderful to visit year-round.

2. Visit Stowe

I love so many towns in Vermont for different reasons, but Stowe is one that I recommend a lot to first-timer’s when visiting, especially in the fall and winter seasons. Not only is the actual town picture-perfect with covered bridges and quaint boutiques, but it’s also home to world-class foliage, stunning mountain vistas and incredible ski resorts.

Some of the top things to do in Stowe include taking the gondola up to Vermont’s highest mountain summit (Mount Mansfield), walking down Main Street to visit the shops, browsing Stowe Mercantile and strolling down the Recreation Path. But there are so many more things to do, so be sure to click the link below to check out my post on Stowe!

Click here to check out my post on the best things to do in Stowe!

3. Stroll Around Manchester

Home to Hildene, and so much more, Manchester is a wonderful town to explore in southern Vermont. With a charming downtown that has a great mix of independent shops and retail outlet chains, awesome restaurants, hiking, great hotels and resorts and waterfalls, this is one you’ll want to add to your Vermont bucket list.

One of the best shops to check out in Manchester is Northshire, which is an awesome book and gift shop with really cool finds. Lye Brook Falls, hiking up Mount Equinox and touring the nearby covered bridges should also be on your list.

4. Hit The Slopes At Amazing Ski Resorts

Once the winter season rolls around, it’s time to hit the slopes in Vermont! And there’s really no shortage of amazing ski resorts to check out in Vermont.

Stowe Resort, Killington, Mad River Glen, Okemo Mountain, Jay Peak and Sugarbush are the top-rated ski destinations, but you’ll find more all over that are worth your time.

Cross-country skiing is also wonderful in Vermont. In fact, Stowe is home to the first cross-country ski center in the U.S., which can be found at the Trapp Family Lodge in Stowe.

5. Inner Tube Down A River

Switching gears back to the summer season for a bit, let’s talk about all the fun opportunities in Vermont to float down a lazy river. All over the state, you’ll find places that rent out inner tubes, and even pick you up at the end of the river so you don’t have to find your way back to the car.

On a hot summer day, this is the perfect way to relax in the Green Mountain State!

Some awesome places to check out for river tubing in Vermont are Vermont River Tubing in Stockbridge, Vermont River Runners and Big Big on the Battenkill.

6. Take In The Views From Vermont’s Highest Peak

I mentioned earlier that one of the best things to do in Stowe is to take the Gondola up to the summit of Mount Mansfield, which is the highest peak in Vermont, and this definitely deserves its own spot on this list.

You can also hike to the top, but for anyone looking for a more relaxing excursion, the Stowe Gondola is an easy way to enjoy the mountain summit.

This is fun in the summer, but fall is the most amazing time to do this because the rolling mountains in the background dripping in fall color is just such an amazing site to see.

7. Hike As Many Mountains As You Can (Or Drive Up, I Won’t Tell 😉)

There’s a reason Vermont is nicknamed the Green Mountain State! And the Green Mountain range is only one of six. And, there are over 1,300 named mountains in Vermont, so you really have your pick of summits to explore.

Some of the mountains have auto roads that make it easy to explore the top (or, gondolas, as mentioned above!). And some, well, the only way up is to hike.

Mount Equinox and Burke Mountain are two great ones to drive up. If you’re looking for an epic hike, Camel’s Hump gets my vote. But really, you can kind of head in any direction in Vermont to find a great mountain hike for almost all levels.

8. See The Covered Bridges

One of my personal favorite things to do in Vermont is tour the covered bridges. In fact, Vermont is home to the most covered bridges per square mile than any other state in the country. There’s also over 100 of them to see during your visit. And these historic and charming structures are absolutely worth scouting out during your visit.

I’ve done so many road trips looking for covered bridges in Vermont, so I decided to create an entire post on the most perfect covered bridges driving tour for first-timer’s. This won’t take you to every covered bridge in the state, but it’ll guide you toward the best ones, and also include some of the best towns in the state to explore.

Click here to check out my post on the best Vermont covered bridges road trip!

9. And Definitely Visit Emily’s Bridge During Spooky Season!

One of the most popular covered bridges to visit in Vermont is Gold Brook Covered Bridge, but often goes by Emily’s Bridge. This one is famous for being haunted, so it makes an especially fun excursion in the fall season.

The legend goes that a young woman named Emily hung herself from the rafters of the bridge when her boyfriend didn’t show up to elope. There have been reports of cars getting scratched, and strange women’s voices when crossing the bridge. But, you’ll just have to go and see for yourself if you believe in all the stories 😉

10. Eat ALL The Cheese

Guys, the cheese scene in Vermont is no joke, and if you’re a cheese lover, this is the place to be! Because of all the rural dairy farms in the state, there are tons of places that make incredible cheese made from the best local ingredients.

A few of my favorites to check out are Sugarbush Farms in Woodstock (they also make awesome maple syrup!), Shelburne farms in Shelburne, and of course, Cabot. In fact, if you swing by Waterbury, you can visit the Cabot Farmer’s Cheese Store, where they have samples of different varieties. Most places will have samples of their cheeses, too, so come hungry and stock up on your favorites before heading home.

11. Taste The Local Maple Syrups, Too

But if there’s one food Vermont is most known for, it’s maple syrup, right? So, when you come to visit, one of the best things to do is visit all the sugar shacks and syrup farms you can! They won’t be hard to find, since Vermont produces 50% of the maple syrup in the U.S.

While you’re at it, be sure to check out all the maple flavored … well, everything! Candies, chocolates, drinks and so much more. It’s fun to get into the maple spirit on your getaway to Vermont!

12. Visit The Breweries

Vermont is home to some incredible breweries, so if you’re into craft beers, this is an excellent destination to add a few to your itinerary.

Fiddlehead, Foam Brewing and The Alchemist are all in my top list to visit in Vermont, but there are over 60 breweries throughout the state to check out!

13. Shop At The Vermont Country Store

Most people are familiar with the Vermont Country Store catalogs, but there are actually two stores you can visit while in Vermont! One is in Weston, and the other in Rockingham, and they’re both equally as fun to visit, so it just depends on which works better with your itinerary.

The stores are huge, and they sell everything you’d find in their catalogs and online including awesome apparel, Darn Tough Socks (which are made in Vermont and make for a great souvenir!), body products and skincare, candies, home decor and kid’s stuff.

14. Drive Route 100

One of the most famous drives to take in Vermont is Route 100, which runs through the middle of the entire state. Starting in Stamford in the south, and going up to Newport in the north, it will take you pretty close to the Canadian border!

And along the way, you’ll get to visit some wonderful places, including covered bridges, the Vermont Country Store in Weston, Waitsfield, Waterbury and Stowe. And it’s pretty easy to venture off Route 100 to get to some other notable places like Woodstock, Wilmington and Burlington.

Route 100 is spectacular in the fall for foliage season, but can be done year-round.

15. Have A Maple Creemee

While the official Vermont state dessert is apple pie, more people probably guessed that it was the maple creemee if you’re familiar with the area. And if you’re not sure what a maple creemee is, it’s a soft-serve, maple-flavored ice cream! Since the maple syrup in Vermont is especially high quality and pure, the best maple creemees you’ll find are here in Vermont.

And these are definitely a staple in the area. Most ice cream places will have some version of the maple creemee (or just a regular creemee if maple flavor isn’t your thing!). A few great places to try one for yourself are:

• Canteen Creemee Company – Waitsfield
• Creemee Stand – Wilmington
• Woodstock Scoops – Woodstock
• Creemees Ice Cream – Burlington
• Village Creeme Stand – Bristol

16. Shop At Church Street Marketplace

Burlington is a worthy Vermont destination on its own, but one of the coolest places to check out there is Church Street Martketplace. Spanning 4 blocks long, this pedestrian-only shopping district in downtown Burlington is home to some pretty awesome shops, boutiques and eateries, making it one of the best shopping districts in the state.

Some great places to check out on Church Street Marketplace are:

• Smuggler’s Notch Distillery
• Crow Bookshop
• Lake Champlain Chocolates
• Leunig’s Bistro & coffee stand
• Bonus tip: look for all the cool street art along the way!

17. Walk Around Woodstock

It’s going to be hard to find a more idyllic town in Vermont than Woodstock, and there’s a reason it’s one of the top-visited destinations in the entire state. Packed to the brim with charm and movie-quality moments at every turn, it’s a place that should be on everyone’s itinerary.

The great thing about Woodstock is that it’s wonderful year-round, but fall is especially perfect (of course!). There are gorgeous shops and boutiques, awesome restaurants, a town green and three covered bridges to check out. Billings Farm & Museum, and Sugarbush Farms are also just a quick drive away for a more countryside vibe.

Click here to check out my post on all the amazing things to do in Woodstock!

18. And Don’t Forget Billings Farm & Museum!

Speaking of Billings Farm & Museum , it really does deserve its own spot on the list. If you’ve never been, this is definitely something you’ll want to have on your radar during your visit.

Both a working farm and museum, this destination does an incredible job with interactive exhibits, seasonal events and offering scenic grounds to explore. Some of the best times to visit are in the spring during their Baby Animal Days celebration, fall for their Harvest Festival, and during the holidays for their Christmas & Wassail Weekend festivities.

19. Attend A Vermont Christmas Celebration

And we can’t talk about Christmas without mentioning all the magical holiday celebrations around Vermont! Since it’s such a warm and cozy destination to begin with, the holidays just add a little something extra to this winter wonderland.

A few of the best holiday celebrations around Vermont are:

• Traditional Christmas in Stowe
• Wassail Weekend in Woodstock
• A Very Merry Middlebury
• Special Christmas Decor at Hildene
• Illuminate Vermont in South Burlington
• Pro tip: don’t forget to attend a special tree lighting!

20. See The Old Round Church

Located in Richmond between Waterbury and Burlington, you’ll find the beautiful Old Round Church, which is such a wonderful scene to take in.

Built in the early 1800s as a meeting house and place of worship, not only is the architecture truly unique, but history remains preserved on the inside for an even more special experience. Some historians even claim that it’s the last remaining 19th Century, 16-sided wooden structure in the world, which is all the more reason to add this to your itinerary.

21. Sip The Local Spirits

Vermont actually has a pretty wonderful array of spirit distillers, and they’re all really fun to visit during your trip!

In fact, an award-winning gin is produced in Vermont, and you can visit to tour the facilities, or stop by for a tasting or cocktail. Caledonia Spirits makes the famed Barr Hill Gin, which has won countless awards including Gin Of The Year. This is truly an awesome stop to make during your Vermont travels, as their bar whips of some pretty mean cocktails, too.

Smuggler’s Notch Distilling, Green Mountain Distillers and Vermont Distillers are all also worthy of your time.

22. Splurge On A Weekend At A Top Vermont Resort

Vermont is home to some pretty epic resorts in New England, and if you’re looking to splurge for a special occasion, this is a great place to do it.

View this post on Instagram A post shared by Spruce Peak (@sprucepeak)

Here’s my list of the best resorts in Vermont that are worth your hard-earned money:

• Woodstock Inn & Resort
• The Lodge At Spruce Peak
• Seesaw’s Lodge

Click here to check out my list of the most incredible New England Resorts & Spas!

23. Find Your Way Through The Great Vermont Corn Maze

In the fall season, there’s not a more fun activity than making your way through the Great Vermont Corn Maze. Located in Danville, this corn maze is actually regarded as one of the best in the entire country. Spanning over 24 acres, you’ll want to budget plenty of time to find the exit because there’s a good chance you’ll get a bit lost – which is all part of the fun!

But there’s actually some more really awesome corn mazes in Vermont , so be sure to scope out a few if you visit in late summer, or in the fall.

24. Tour The Ben & Jerry’s Factory

You can’t talk about the best things to do in Vermont and not mention Ben & Jerry’s, right? This now household name for ice cream is a staple for people worldwide, and with famous flavors like Chunky Monkey, Half Baked and Phish Food, as well as celebrity collaborations, it’s one of the top names in the world when it comes to ice cream.

And it was all started right in Vermont. In fact, it began in an old gas station in Burlington, and flourished into what it is today.

When you’re in Vermont, you can stop by the Ben & Jerry’s factory in Waterbury! Tour the factory, visit the flavor graveyard to see all the discontinued flavors, and stop at their scoop and gift shops for a fun treat and cool things to bring home.

25. Visit The Shoppes At Quechee Gorge Village

Quechee is one of my favorite little towns to visit in Vermont, and one of the best places to check out here is the Quechee Gorge Village. This is where you’ll find the Quechee General Store, the Antiques Mall (which seems to go on forever!), and a few other great little shops.

You can also find the Vermont Spirits Distilling Co. tasting room here, too. This is a really fun and unique shopping destination in New England.

26. See Quechee Gorge

Near the Quechee Gorge Village, you’ll find the actual Quechee Gorge, which is most definitely worth your time. Free to visit, just grab a parking spot at the Visitor’s Center, and cross the street to the bridge over the Ottaquechee River to take in views of what’s been nicknamed “Vermont’s Little Grand Canyon.”

If you feel like spending a bit more time here, you can also hike around the area to enjoy different views of the gorge along the way.

27. Get All The Chocolates You Can

Surprisingly, Vermont makes some pretty great chocolates! In fact, one of my favorite things to do in the fall and winter season is snatch up all the chocolates I can. All over the state, you can find wonderful chocolatiers that make classic treats, and also come up with original flavor profiles.

Here are some of my favorite chocolate places to check out in Vermont:

• Lake Champlain Chocolates (located in Burlington, Waterbury, and Stowe)
• NU Chocolate in Burlington
• Tavernier Chocolates in Brattleboro
• Middlebury Sweets
• Village Peddler and Chocolatorium in Arlington (a fun stop to combine with the Arlington Covered Bridge!)
• Farmhouse Chocolates in Bristol

28. Visit A Rock Quarry

Vermont is actually pretty famous for its rock quarries, and believe it or not, it’s home to the largest underground marble quarry in the world – Danby Quarry! And while you can’t tour that one, there are others you can tour or visit on your own for pretty awesome views.

A cool one to check out is Smith Quarry, which takes you to an overlook of the largest operating deep-hole granite quarry in the world ( I know – who knew that would be in Vermont, right?! ). And if you’re in Manchester, you can take a dip in the Dorset Marble Quarry, which is just a few minutes from downtown Manchester.

29. Stay Overnight At A Farm

One of the most fun and unique things to do in Vermont is book a stay at Fat Sheep Farm & Cabins , which is located in Windsor, and accessible to Killington and Woodstock.

View this post on Instagram A post shared by Fat Sheep Farm & Cabins (@fatsheepfarm)

During your stay at this working farm, you’ll get to enjoy your beautiful cabin, but also get a taste of what farm life is like. You can book cheese and sourdough breaking-making workshops, garden tours, participate in animal chores around the farm (like feeding sheep and goats, and collecting eggs from the chicken coops!), or you can just take a more relaxing approach by visiting with all the cute animals.

This is truly such a special experience while you’re visiting Vermont, so I encourage you to check them out!

🐑 Click here to check out rates and availability!

30. Enjoy A Full Vermont Country Breakfast

You can’t leave without trying a full Vermont country breakfast! Because farming and agriculture is such an important and plentiful industry in Vermont, so many ingredients and foods are incredibly fresh throughout the region.

During a true Vermont country breakfast experience, you’ll typically be served coffee and/or fresh juice, farm fresh eggs, pancakes, fresh breads, bacon or sausage and toasts. The experience is different everywhere you go, but the food is always delicious. Just be forewarned, you may not have room for lunch!

31. Go To The Top Of The Bennington Battle Monument

Bennington can be found in the southern part of Vermont, close to Manchester, and one of the coolest things to do in town is to go to the top of the Bennington Battle Monument. Driving into Vermont from New York, you can see the monument from quite a distance, and it actually looks a bit like the Washington Monument in D.C.

The monument is 306 feet tall, and from the top on a clear day, you can see three states in the distance. The views are especially beautiful in the fall season with foliage colors abound!

32. Have A Fall Foliage Getaway

Speaking of fall color, the number one thing everyone should plan to do in Vermont at some point is a fall foliage getaway. Vermont might be most famous for its spectacular foliage, and there’s a really good reason for that – it’s even more amazing in person than in the postcards and stock photos you see.

The entire state has gorgeous foliage at every turn, so it’s hard to not see it during a fall trip. The one thing you’ll want to do is time your trip right. Each region in Vermont turns at different times, with the northern areas turning in late September, and the mid-region peaking around Indigenous Peoples’ Weekend. Southern areas usually peak mid-October.

33. Drive Smuggler’s Notch In The Fall

One of the best drives for fall foliage in Vermont is Smugglers Notch, which is in Stowe (another reason Stowe is a must-visit!). This road that runs through Smugglers Notch State Park and is free to drive and explore. But the fall foliage here is honestly … epic.

The entire drive is lined with yellow, orange and red leaves, and because the road is full of curves and hairpin turns, it’s also very scenic.

34. Explore The Marsh-Billings-Rockefeller National Historical Park

Another amazing place to visit that can be found in Woodstock is the Marsh-Billings-Rockefeller National Historical Park . This is such a wonderful park that’s perfect for connecting with nature year-round, and is home to over 20 miles of scenic trails.

At the park, you can also take guided nature tours, go horseback riding, and stroll amongst the maple trees in the forest. This is such a beautiful place to explore, and shouldn’t be missed on your trip.

35. Bike The Burlington Greenway Bike Path

The Burlington Greenway is an awesome paved path for both bikers and pedestrians, and spans about 8 miles. A large part of it runs along Lake Champlain for beautiful views along the way, and also connects to the Local Motion Ferry, which takes you (and your bike!) to the Champlain Islands to discover even more beautiful scenery.

If you’re in the Burlington area, this is definitely one of the most fun things to do on a beautiful day in the spring, summer and fall seasons. And in the winter, you’re able to use it to cross-country ski.

36. Go On A Spooky Queen City Ghostwalk

Also while in Burlington, be sure to book a Queen City Ghostwalk tour! These tours are especially perfect in the fall season in October to coordinate with Halloween and all things spooky, and with several options available, you’re sure to find the perfect ghostly experience.

Led by Vermont-native and author Thea Lewis, tours include stories of serial killers, paranormal activity, urban legends, and local lore and history, and are packed with all kinds of information on Vermont’s past that’s sure to give you goosebumps. And because each tour is expertly researched, it’s absolutely worth your time and money.

37. Explore The Beautiful Vermont Lakes

Vermont is the only New England State that’s not bordered by ocean coastline, but it makes up for that with stunning lakes. Lake Champlain is the biggest in the state, and can be found in Burlington. There are some wonderful boat tours around Lake Champlain that offer beautiful scenery along the way.

But Vermont has over 800 lakes to explore, so this is something you’ll definitely want to add to your itinerary if you’re looking for some water views – especially in the summer. Lake Willoughby is an especially scenic one to check out, and Crystal Lake, Lake Saint Catherine and Lake Bomoseen are all also beautiful.

38. Take A Scenic Cruise Along Lake Champlain

View this post on Instagram A post shared by Spirit of Ethan Allen (@spiritofethanallen)

As mentioned above, cruising around Lake Champlain is such a treat, so this is another activity that really deserves its own mention. On board the Spirit of Ethan Allen , you’ll have options for scenic narrated tours to learn more about the area, sunset cruises, and even lunch cruises.

Wondering why the ship is named after Ethan Allen? Well, stick around until later in this post to find out!

39. Visit The Champlain Islands, Too!

Mentioned earlier, you can take a ferry over to the islands along Lake Champlain for an exciting and more secluded excursion. In fact, you can actually drive directly to 4 of the islands via the causeway: South Hero, North Hero, Isle la Motte, and Grand Isle.

Lake Champlain’s islands are known for outdoor recreation, historical significance and quirky attractions, and they’re definitely worth a visit if you’re looking to explore more of Vermont’s lakes. Of course, kayaking and canoeing are one of the top things to do when visiting, and you’ll also want to swing by Hero’s Welcome general store, discover the state parks, and stroll through the charming towns on the main islands.

40. Visit Shelburne Farms

One thing I love to recommend to people when they’re visiting Vermont is to head just south or Burlington to Shelburne and visit Shelburne Farms. A working farm with over 1400 acres of beautiful land to explore, which includes pastures, woodlands, gardens and scenic nature trails, Shelburne Farms is such a treat to visit.

View this post on Instagram A post shared by Shelburne Farms (@shelburnefarms)

Once owned by the Vanderbilt family, Shelburne Farms is also a seasonal inn, so you can stay overnight on the property. Their farm-to-table restaurant is incredible, but even if you just come for a few hours to walk the grounds, it’s a memorable excursion!

41. Stay At The Trapp Family Lodge

Earlier in the post, I talked about how Vermont was home to some of the best resorts in New England and one that stands out as a unique experience is the Trapp Family Lodge , which is the home of Maria von Trapp, the author of the book that inspired the movie, The Sound Of Music . Believe it or not, Maria’s family settled in Stowe, VT where the lodge remains today!

Now, the lodge was rebuilt in the 1980s after a fire destroyed the original, but the location and the style of the lodge is the same. You’ll instantly feel transported into an Austrian-inspired heaven when you arrive.

42. Visit Cold Hollow Cider Mill

Open year-round, but especially fun in the fall season, Cold Hollow Cider Mill in Waterbury is such a classic Vermont stop to make during your visit. Part cidery, part general store, and tons of fun, you’ll be able to grab freshly-made donuts and cider here, as well as shop from the store that has everything from candies and home decor, to local speciality foods, maple syrups and apparel.

Be sure to walk across the parking lot to their hard cider tasting room and restaurant, too!

43. Shop At The Simon Pearce Flagship Store

The flagship Simon Pearce store can be found in Quechee (yet another reason to visit this cute little town), and you’ll be totally inspired once you walk in. Known as heirloom-quality housewares and decor crafters, Simon Pearce is a quintessential Vermont and New England brand.

Downstairs, you can enjoy a free glass glowing demonstration, as well as ask the artisans questions while they work. And upstairs next to the shop, you can dine at The Mill, which is next on my list!

44. Have Lunch At One Of The Most Romantic Restaurants In The U.S.

Looking to have a romantic lunch or dinner during your trip to Vermont? You’ll want to consider booking a table at The Mill, which is inside the Simon Pearce shop in Quechee. Travel + Leisure named this as one of the most romantic restaurants in the entire country!

The restaurant overlooks the Ottauquechee River and Quechee Covered Bridge to create a lovely ambience, and of course, the food and drinks are wonderful. This is perfect for a special occasion, or just to have a lovely meal out because really, who needs an occasion to splurge, right?

45. Do A Wheel Workshop At Farmhouse Pottery

Farmhouse Pottery is now sold in boutiques all over the country, and pieces are still hand-thrown right in Vermont in their flagship store!

If you’re a fan of beautiful and simple pottery designs, you’ll want to visit Farmhouse Pottery’s shop and studio in Woodstock. Located just a few minutes outside the main village, the shop is beautifully merchandised to really let their pieces shine, and the studio is often open for you to walk in and talk to the artisans making each of the pieces.

46. Find All The Best Country Stores

I mentioned the Vermont Country Store earlier on this list, but I would be remiss to not mention that there are so many other amazing country stores throughout Vermont that are worth visiting. Most are housed in historic buildings with gorgeous, creaky hardwood floors, and shelves stocked with local foods, goods, decor and a bunch more stuff you didn’t know you needed.

Here are a few of my favorite general and country stores in Vermont:

• Stowe Mercantile in Stowe
• Original General Store in Pittsfield
• Shelburne Country Store
• Dorset Union Store in Dorset
• The Vermont Spot in Hartford
• Hogback Mountain Country Store in Marlboro

47. Visit The 100 Mile Overlook

The last country store on my list from above in Marlboro is also home to this awesome 100-Mile Overlook, which is a really fun stop to make. And, as the name so perfectly explains, on a clear day you can see 100 miles in the distance, including some of the New Hampshire peaks.

After enjoying the view, head into the Hogback Mountain shop for some ice cream and country store shopping!

48. Have A Fresh, Farm-To-Table Dinner

Vermont probably has the best farm-to-table dining scene of all the states in New England, and I’m sure that has to do with the fact that rural farming is such a prevalent lifestyle and industry in the Green Mountain State.

View this post on Instagram A post shared by Sawmill Bar & Table (@sawmillbarandtable)

Most restaurants heavily rely on local ingredients for their menus, so it’s not hard to find some pretty awesome farm-to-table dining during your visit.

Here are a few amazing places to check out:

• Michael’s on the Hill in Waterbury
• Hen of the Wood in Waterbury
• Kismet in Montpelier
• Sawmill Bar & Table in West Diver
• The Crooked Ram in Manchester
• Shelburne Farms

49. Visit The Awesome Pumpkin Patches, Apple Orchards & Farm Stands

In the fall season, it doesn’t get better than visiting a pumpkin patch and farm stand selling apple cider and donuts on a crips autumn day, am I right? And I’m sure it comes as no surprise that you can find these alllllll over Vermont.

Here are some of my favorites to check out:

• The Apple Barn & Cafe in Bennington
• Mad Tom Orchards in East Dorset
• Burt’s Apple Orchard in Cabot
• Kingdom Corn Maze & Pumpkin Patch in Sutton

50. Stay At A Cozy Inn

Okay, so I’ve covered why splurging on a luxury resort in Vermont is definitely worth your money, but let’s also talk about all of Vermont’s cozy inns and B&B’s. In fact, this is one of the best kinds of accommodation to book when traveling through the state because they’ll all feel like home, and offer that Vermont country breakfast I mentioned earlier.

Sometimes, inns and B&Bs in Vermont can be a bit pricey, but the good thing is, they come in all budgets. And while the pricier ones have always been worth it, the affordable ones are also quaint and cozy, just with fewer amenities.

These are few that I recommend checking out:

• Four Chimney’s in Bennington
• Green Mountain Inn in Stowe
• Jackson House Inn in Woodstock
• The Grafton Inn in Grafton

51. Eat At American Flatbread

It’s possible you’ve seen frozen American Flatbread pizzas in your local grocery store, and this awesome pizza restaurant started right in Vermont! In fact, you can dine at the original in Waitsfield, which is also a 25 acre farmstead.

They now have 11 locations throughout New England, 5 of which are in Vermont. And the quality of the food and ingredients has never faltered. This is still one of my favorite places to eat in the state. They have a laser focus on farm-fresh ingredients, and their pizzas are absolutely amazing.

Each location is also super cozy, often with fireplaces, and have really nice bars to sample local craft brews and fun cocktails. These are definitely not your average pizza joints.

52. Visit The Ethan Allen Homestead & Museum

Most people know the furniture brand Ethan Allen, but you may not know that it all began in Vermont. The company was named after a Revolutionary War hero named … you guessed it … Ethan Allen, and was founded by two brothers-in-law who bought an old sawmill in Vermont, and began to make furniture.

The war hero Ethan Allen, however, was an important part of capturing the British at Fort Ticonderoga during the Revolutionary War. He was also the first leader and commander of The Green Mountain Boys, who also played an integral role in the Battle of Bennington.

Allen settled in the Burlington, Vermont area after fighting in the Indian War, and his homestead is now an amazing museum along the Winooski River. The museum takes you back in time to what life in New England was like in the late 1700s, and kids can even try on Colonial clothing!

The museum is located within Ethan Allen Homestead Park, which has over 4 miles of scenic nature trails to explore.

53. Attend A Fall Festival

For a destination known for its stunning fall foliage, of course there will be some fun fall festivals to go with it! Vermont has some really exciting fall events to consider attending during your visit. Here are a few to check out:

• Burke Fall Foliage Festival
• Autumn on the Green – Danville (home of the Great Vermont Corn Maze!)
• HarvestFest at Stratton Mountain
• Mount Snow Oktoberfest
• Killington Harvest Faire

54. And A Winter Festival, Too!

Yep, there are some pretty awesome winter festivals in Vermont, too! This shouldn’t come as a huge surprise since the snowy season is pretty well-celebrated and enjoyed in the Green Mountain State. Here are a few really fun winter festivals in Vermont to check out:

• Stowe Winter Carnival
• Newport Winter Festival
• The Grafton Ice Bar (hosted by one of my favorite cozy inns in Vermont – The Grafton Inn!)
• Great Ice! In North Hero
• Waterbury Winterfest

55. Visit The Vermont Teddy Bear Factory

One of the cutest and highest-quality stuffed animals you can get are made right here in the Vermont Teddy Bear Factory. And you can actually visit the factory in Shelburne, VT! To make a day of it, plan to visit both Shelburne Farms and the Teddy Bear Factory 🙂

View this post on Instagram A post shared by Vermont Teddy Bear (@vtteddybear)

At the factory campus (yes, it’s a campus), you can make your own custom bear to bring home, take a guided tour to watch the bear artisans at work, and visit the bear hospital, where you learn about how the factory fixes up your favorite friend to make them good as new.

And the outdoors is a wonderful place to hang out. Kids can even enjoy Teddy Bear Picnics on select days throughout the year.

56. Eat At The Famous Blue Benn Diner

Located in Bennington, one of the most famous diners in Vermont is the Blue Benn. Media outlets like Yankee Magazine , Thrillist and Martha Stewart have raved about it, too, and it’s become a staple in southern Vermont.

Blue Benn is open for breakfast and lunch, and is known for comfort food classics and fresh spins on healthy options (you have to try their nut burger!). Pretty much everything on the menu here is a winner, though. When you’re done, be sure to save room for either their homemade pie or homemade pudding, and thank me later 😉

57. Do The Canopy Walk At VINS Nature Center

Short for the Vermont Institute of Natural Science, VINS is home to the Canopy Walk through the forest tree tops, which is especially beautiful during foliage season (but is honestly great year-round).

View this post on Instagram A post shared by VINS (@vinsraptors)

The Canopy Walk is an awesome boardwalk system that’s also ADA-accessible, and sits 100 feet above the ground to allow you an immersive nature experience. Built to educate visitors on environmental sustainability, admission tickets also include access to the entire nature center and its exhibits.

58. Walk The Robert Frost Interpretive Trail

Located in Ripton, just 20 minutes outside Middlebury, you’ll find this wonderful Robert Frost Interpretive Trail. Known for his poetry that highlighted the natural beauty of the New England region, Frost actually lived off-and-on in Ripton during the last 20 years or so of his life – he even taught at Middlebury College.

He moved to Vermont to enjoy better farmland and grow apple trees, and his home can still be visited in Ripton along the trail (although, the interior remains closed to the public).

But along this easy trail that’s only about a quarter of a mile long inside the Green Mountain National Forest , you can relax and connect with nature on a path that’s lined with Frost’s poetry. It’s actually a really cool and thoughtful experience because his poems are some of the most well-known celebrations of nature. So, to read them while walking through the woods and ponds where he once lived is really quite memorable.

59. See Vermont By Train

Vermont actually has a couple of wonderful options for scenic train rides through the state, which makes this such a cool thing to consider doing during your visit!

For over 50 years, the Vermont Rail System has been taking people for rides that showcase gorgeous landscapes, and with options like a Champlain Valley Dinner ride, or Cocktails on the Rails, it’s also a really fun experience! The Vermont Rail System departs from Burlington, making it easy to work into your itinerary if visiting the Lake Champlain region.

60. Explore The State Capital

Montpelier is the capital of Vermont, and is actually a really cool city to explore. One of the reasons I enjoy visiting is because it feels kind of like a city and a small, charming town at the same time.

During your visit to Montpelier, here are a few awesome things to consider checking out:

• Stroll through Hubbard Park (especially great during fall foliage season!)
• Cocktails and tastings at Barr Hill Distillery
• Dine at Oakes & Evelyn
• Taste local maple syrup at Morse Farm Maple Sugarworks
• Sip on wine at North Branch Vineyards
• Snap photos of Coburn Covered Bridge

Bonus: Visit The Vermont Beetlejuice Filming Location!

For fans of Beetlejuice, you may want to consider swinging by East Corinth to see where the famous bridge scene was filmed!

View this post on Instagram A post shared by Matt Emery (@emery_bored)

East Corinth is actually one of the most photographed destinations during fall foliage season, and is one of those idyllic rural landscapes you think of when picturing Vermont. However, one of the reasons it’s a bonus suggestion on this list is because many of the filming locations may not have as much impact when you visit as you’d hope.

Now, I still think it’s such a fun stop to make (even just to appreciate the scenery if you’re not into the movie!), but there’s a few things to note about the filming locations.

The iconic bridge that Barbara and Adam crash through is there, but it’s not a cute little red covered bridge as shown in the movie. They turned into into a covered bridge for the movie, and tore it down once filming wrapped. Same goes for the iconic house. You can visit the hill it was built on, but since the house was made just for the movie, it was also torn down after filming.

But you can see Mason Hall, which was Lydia’s school in the movie! And if you pay attention to the movie before you visit, you’ll be able to see how shots of the town overall were used as B-roll.

What Is The Best Time To Visit Vermont?

While Vermont is beautiful year-round, I think fall and winter are the best times to visit. This is also when hotel accommodations will fill up the fastest, and be the most expensive. But, it’s definitely worth it. Fall in Vermont is famous around the world for a reason!

And, of course, the ski resorts in winter are hard to beat, and they’re some of the best in the entire country.

Psst! I have an entire guide on the best time to visit Vermont , if you’re looking for more information 😉

How Many Days Do You Need In Vermont?

Vermont is so small that you can easily take a day trip, plan a weekend getaway, or even explore for a week or more. It’s entirely up to you! I would say a good sweet spot is a long weekend (3-4 days), which will allow you time to see the best small towns, and some of the top attractions, while also slowing down enough to really enjoy it.

What Is Vermont Known For?

Vermont is famous for several things, including:

• Maple syrup
• Ben & Jerry’s
• The Green Mountains
• Fall foliage
• Postcard-worthy countryside landscapes
• Simon Pearce

More Of My Vermont Travel Guides:

• Vermont In The Fall
• Vermont In The Winter
• Vermont In The Spring
• All The Best Things To Do In Vermont
• Fun Things To Do In Waterbury, VT
• Best Places To Stay In Vermont In The Fall
• Best Vermont Pumpkin Patches & Farm Stands To Visit In The Fall
• Christmas In Vermont: All The Most Festive Things To Do
• What Is Vermont Known For? I’ll Tell You!

Other posts you may find helpful:

• Exciting Things To Do In New England In The Fall
• Best Christmas Towns In New England
• The Perfect New England Fall Road Trip Itinerary
• Vermont vs. New Hampshire In The Fall

That’s A Wrap On The Best Things To Do In Vermont!

And now you’re ready to start planning your next trip to the Green Mountain State! With all these amazing things to do in Vermont, it’ll be tough to decide which to start with. But definitely throw in a mix of the best, most quaint towns, mountains, cozy places to stay, a covered bridge or two, and you’re well on your way to making the perfect Vermont itinerary.

You might also enjoy

Subscribe To My Newsletter

• Privacy Policy
• Terms & Conditions
• Disclosure Policy

• Best Time to Visit
• Weather & Climate
• Top Places to Visit
• Best Small Towns
• Things to Do in Rutland
• Things to Do in Burlington
• Things to Do in Montpelier
• Things to Do in Woodstock
• Things to Do in Vermont
• Scenic Road Trips
• Where to See Fall Foliage
• Best Ski Resorts
• Food to Try
• Best Breweries
• Search Please fill out this field.
• Newsletters
• Destinations
• United States

The 11 Best Small Towns in Vermont

Vermont may be small and sparsely populated (it’s the second smallest state by population), but its people have a sense of pride that rivals the famed Texas Pride, and for good reason. This state is arguably the most stunning of the Northeastern states, and its distinct seasons offer visitors and locals an abundance of seasonal activities and a wealth of year-round natural beauty. While many visitors stick to Montpelier (the nation's smallest state capital) or Burlington , the true gems of this state lie in its tiny, hidden towns.

This endearing village is smack dab in the middle of the Mad River Valley, a portion of Vermont that is known for its incredible swimming holes, hikes, ski areas, and year-round beauty. In addition to its access to outdoor recreation, Warren has a fun ski town vibe without the unsightly sprawl and trendiness of a ski resort. Instead, you’ll find a handful of local pubs, the Warren Store, and a small number of delightful inns, restaurants, galleries, and shops. 

Historic, flat-roofed buildings line Bristol's wide main street, bringing to mind a New England version of an old western town. Bristol’s charm lies in its nod to history (recycling is picked up by horse-drawn wagon), and its delightful modern-day amenities, like art galleries, breweries, restaurants, and the town's country store. Beyond the downtown scene, you’ll find rolling hills and stunning valley views.

Fun fact: Bristol's tradition of holding summer concerts on the village green dates back to the Civil War. 

Just a few miles from the Quebec border, Newport is nestled along the shore of Lake Memphremagog, a freshwater lake that is shared with Canada (in fact, one can even hop on a boat and sail into Canada for an afternoon!). On the Newport side, you’ll find a waterfront boardwalk, summer concerts, fine dining experiences, and nearby hikes. In the winter, enjoy skiing, snowshoeing, snowmobiling, and a slew of other seasonal sports.

Brattleboro

All the way at the other end of the state on the Massachusetts border, Brattleboro quietly rambles along the banks of the Connecticut River. This quirky town is known for its crunchy food and arts scene, as well as its laid-back, chill vibe. After window shopping downtown, snag a coveted seat at TJ Buckley’s , where you’ll find yourself eating fresh, local food from a chef who creates a menu according to whatever is in season. Planning a visit during the beginning of June? Be sure to catch the annual Strolling of the Heifers (which is exactly what it sounds like: a parade of cows through Brattleboro).

Most visitors to this area are in search of Stowe , a ski town a bit further up Route 100. While Stowe has reason to bring throngs of tourists (especially during its winter season, for its ski resort of the same name), Waterbury is, in its own right, a must-visit small Vermont town. Here you’ll find a much more relaxed, tiny downtown that features world-class dining and drinks. Prohibition Pig is a local favorite where you’ll enjoy live music, smoked meats, and a locavore menu, as well as over 20 craft beers on tap.

Wallingford

Courtesy of Town of Wallingford, VT

This dreamy town is the perfect resting place if you’re aching for a low-key, rural vacation. The quaint village offers food, arts, museums, and plenty of outdoor recreation. With Rutland nearby, you’ll also have access to shopping and dining, as well as a fun nightlife scene. If you’re interested in camping, Emerald Lake State Park is a 20-minute drive south from Wallingford. Here you’ll find a lake that lives up to its name (it’s truly emerald), while a drive up into the wooded hillside will give you secluded camping spots.

Chad Ehlers / Getty Images

Chelsea is not your typical tourist destination. The town gives visitors a feel for how Vermonters truly live, without the hustle of playing to tourists. It also doesn’t hurt that it’s nestled in a gorgeous, albeit sleepy knoll. Every Friday all summer long, you’ll find a bustling farmer’s market, with provisions from many of Chelsea’s local farms (such as Free Verse Farm , an herbal farm with a campground that looks out over the Chelsea valley). There’s also a lovely art gallery, local-food cafe, and a small yoga studio. Downtown’s Chicken Wiggle Farm supplies the town with eggs, meat, and seasonal produce, while farm-curious visitors can enjoy a farm stay at Longest Acres Farm .

Ellen Rooney / robertharding / Getty Images 

The first time you drive through Weston, you might feel as if you’re on a movie set. This tiny town’s charm is evident in its historic homes and buildings, small galleries and museums, delightful stores and restaurants, and the country store of all country stores, the Vermont Country Store . Although this town has a rustic appeal regardless of the time of year, December truly delivers. Weston’s annual town-wide Christmas celebration features horse-drawn carriage rides, carolers, and a town tree lighting.

Included on nearly every list of beloved Vermont towns, scenic Grafton is notable not only for its historic covered bridges and stately Grafton Inn , but also for the fact that with only a year-round population of just over 600 people, Grafton manages to retain a certain relevance. The town is also home to Grafton Village Cheese Co. , where one can sample naturally-aged, handmade variations of everything from cheddar to gouda. Stay at the historic Grafton Inn, one of the oldest operating hotels in the U.S., which dates back to 1801.

White River Junction

Most visitors to this region of Vermont are here for Woodstock and just down the road from that lively town is the equally lovely, albeit much smaller and less touristy, White River Junction. This town has recently gone through a bit of a revival—the historic downtown area is also home to a train station, and of course the typical cafes, restaurants, and small shops. A swim in the White River is a must if you are visiting during Vermont’s intensely short but absolutely brilliant summer season. Just ask a local where their favorite swimming hole is, and you’ll be treated to one of the best summer pastimes of Vermont.

Similar in style to Bristol, Vergennes is another flat-front, wide main street type of town, with tiny shops, galleries, and restaurants all in a row. Dating back to 1788, Vergennes was Vermont’s very first city. Although it has grown a bit in size, it still remains small, and many of its oldest buildings are still in working order (such as the still-working opera house, built in 1897, or the Stevens House, a staple since 1793). Dine at the Black Sheep Bistro for a delicious take on Vermont’s famed farm-to-table style restaurants. Located on the banks of the Otter Creek, Vergennes is also close to Burlington, Lake Champlain, hikes, and a myriad of opportunities to enjoy the unparalleled outdoor beauty of Vermont.

Related Articles

More related articles.

Protect Your Trip »

23 top things to do in vermont in 2024.

Outdoor adventures are just one of the high points of the Green Mountain State.

Top Things to Do in Vermont

Courtesy of Trapp Family Lodge

Vermont is known for its peaceful escapes into nature and outdoor attractions, from renowned ski resorts to the Green Mountains to Lake Champlain. But it also touts charismatic small towns, unique lodging choices such as farm stays and all-inclusive resorts , and distinctive food and drink. This destination is worth a visit for its nationally recognized craft beer, the rich offerings of the Vermont Cheese Trail, the maple syrup – since Vermont produces more than 50% of the country's supply – and the "creemees," which are a slightly richer (and arguably tastier) take on soft serve ice cream.

There's no such thing as a bad time to visit Vermont, but fall is exceptionally beautiful, with some of the most stunning foliage in all of New England . Curious to see the Green Mountain State for yourself? These are the experiences that should be on your list of the best things to do in Vermont.

Lake Champlain

Getty Images

In 1998, Lake Champlain was briefly named one of the Great Lakes after then-President Bill Clinton signed into law a bill in which Senator Patrick Leahy of Vermont quietly deemed it as such. Eighteen days – and a heavy dispute – later, the title was rescinded after a determination that, geographically, Lake Champlain doesn't quite measure up to lakes like Superior and Michigan. But residents and tourists today can still recognize it for the great – not to be confused with Great – lake that it is.

With or without the esteemed title, Lake Champlain is a large freshwater lake that spans 435 square miles of surface water and wows visitors with views of the Green Mountains on one side and the Adirondacks on the other. Dozens of public beaches and boat launches line its shores, so you'll find no shortage of opportunities for recreation on the water, including boating, fishing, swimming and keeping an eye out for the mythological lake monster named Champ. The lake's striking island towns – Grand Isle, South Hero, North Hero, Isle La Motte and Alburgh – offer state parks, farms, orchards, vineyards, and even inns and campgrounds.

Tour the flagship Ben & Jerry's

Courtesy of Ben & Jerry's

Have you even been to Vermont if you didn't take the factory tour at Ben & Jerry's ? At its flagship location in Waterbury (near Stowe), Ben & Jerry's offers 30-minute guided tours that include a short movie on the company's history, an overview of the production process, a look at the manufacturing area and an ice cream tasting. Of course, there's also an on-site ice cream shop and gift shop, and especially charming are the photo ops and the Flavor Graveyard, where you can pay your respects to the "dearly de-pinted." Previous visitors confirm it's as touristy as it seems, but fun nonetheless.

Address: 1281 Waterbury-Stowe Road, state Route 100, Waterbury, VT 05676

One of the top things to do in Vermont is spend a day or two in Burlington . The centerpiece of town is Church Street Marketplace, which offers plenty of shopping and restaurants, many with outdoor dining. Find cozy lodging such as the rustic but modern Hotel Vermont , or consider a stay at one of the town's best bed-and-breakfasts . Of course, this popular waterfront city also boasts a variety of local breweries.

Other highlights in Burlington include ECHO, Leahy Center for Lake Champlain, a science and nature museum; the Ethan Allen Homestead Museum, a historical home commemorating one of Vermont's founders; and, for those who enjoy quirky attractions, the World's Tallest Filing Cabinet. Whatever you do, don't bypass the Burlington Greenway Bike/Walk Path, a pleasant paved trail that runs along Lake Champlain and connects beaches, parks and neighborhoods.

Island Line Trail

Courtesy of Hello Burlington and Local Motion

The nearly 14-mile Island Line Trail, which includes the Burlington Greenway, crosses the middle of Lake Champlain via a 3-mile causeway, allowing you to practically touch the water with your feet in some areas; there's nothing quite like it. This rail trail begins in Burlington and follows the route of a railbed – the Island Line – built in 1899 by the Rutland-Canadian Railroad to connect New England to the Great Lakes, until moving freight by other means became cheaper around the 1950s.

The railbed remained abandoned until it became a path for pedestrians and cyclists in the 1980s, and this rail trail has been one of the most unique things to do in Vermont ever since. To reach the end of the trail, you have to take a ferry, which bridges a 200-foot gap in the causeway, before continuing the short journey to South Hero. You can acquire a bike rental from Local Motion, a rental shop and advocacy organization in Burlington. Local Motion also operates the bike ferry and provides an interactive map of the trail. Both bike rentals and ferry rides are available seasonally from May to October, and reservations are recommended.

Experience the sugarhouses

As the largest producer of maple syrup in the United States, Vermont has thousands of sugarhouses, many of which host Maple Open House Weekends in March with tours and tastings. The events align with sugaring season (and mud season), when oscillating temperatures cause sap to flow through maple trees for sugar makers to collect. If you don't want to visit Vermont during mud season but still want to learn about syrup production and history, check out Baird Farm in Chittenden, which offers free tours and tastings year-round (reservations required). Previous guests rave about the staff's hospitality here.

Try out a delicious creemee

Courtesy of Canteen Creemee Company

Creemees are essentially soft serve ice cream, but there's no real consensus on where the name came from. Perhaps the moniker derives from the fact that Vermont used to make its soft serve higher in butterfat content and, hence, creamier. Either way, the creemee's most iconic flavor is maple, but you can't go wrong with any flavor at places such as Canteen Creemee Company in Waitsfield, The Village Scoop in Colchester and Al's French Frys in South Burlington, all of which come recommended by locals and visitors alike. If you're looking for plant-based options, head to Offbeat Creemee in Winooski.

Breweries and beer trails

If you like craft beer, chances are Vermont is already on your list of places to visit. Featuring some of the top-rated breweries in the U.S., Vermont is home to The Alchemist in Stowe – whose Heady Topper IPA has a cult following – as well as Freak Folk Bier in Waterbury and Hill Farmstead Brewery in Greensboro.

If you really want to immerse yourself in the craft beer scene, follow one of the Vermont Brewers Association's beer trails . Take the Vermont Brewery Passport Challenge by picking up a passport at a participating brewery and collecting stamps or by checking in to your stops on the Vermont Brewery Challenge app. Cyclists may want to check out the bike-friendly Burlington Trail, where you can imbibe highly rated beers at Foam Brewers. Pet owners can take advantage of the Dog-Friendly Beer Trail to drink alongside furry friends, while the Tiny Trail will take beer enthusiasts exclusively to nano breweries.

Vermont Teddy Bear: Shelburne

What started as a Burlington street cart in 1981 has grown into a full-fledged store and experience in Shelburne, Vermont. At Vermont Teddy Bear, visitors can take a tour of the factory where the now-famous plush bears are made, including the Bear Hospital, where injured or sick teddy bears are lovingly repaired by the resident bear doctor.

For an additional fee on top of the tour cost, make your own teddy bear to take home or gift to someone you love. It's the perfect way to commemorate a trip to Vermont for travelers of all ages. You can also check out the on-site Bear Shop to browse the selection of bears and Vermont-made products.

Address: 6655 Shelburne Road, Shelburne, VT 05482

Simon Pearce Flagship: Quechee

Courtesy of Simon Pearce

Another item to immortalize a trip to Vermont (albeit more expensive than a teddy bear) is a handcrafted piece of glassware from the Simon Pearce store in Quechee, the namesake studio of a legendary Irish-American entrepreneur and artist who resides in Vermont. Located in a renovated historic woolen mill that's hydroelectrically powered by the Ottauquechee River – an attraction in itself – the artist's flagship store includes a workshop where you can watch craftspeople blowing glass pieces that are sold on-site. Get a bite to eat at the dining room at Simon Pearce, which overlooks a waterfall and covered bridge.

Address: 1760 Quechee Main St., Quechee, VT 05059

Hit the ski slopes in Stowe and beyond

Courtesy of Stowe Mountain Resort

Vermont is a renowned destination for skiing, with more than two dozen public ski areas on offer. Among them is Stowe Mountain Resort , located in the picturesque town of Stowe, which is nicknamed the "Ski Capital of the East" and considered one of the best places to ski in the U.S. This resort touts 485 acres of skiable terrain that cover Spruce Peak and Mount Mansfield, the highest point in Vermont. Just as good as the skiing and snowboarding is the town of Stowe itself, where shops and restaurants line Main Street and hotels such as Topnotch Resort and The Lodge at Spruce Peak offer luxury accommodations and amenities.

Check out other notable ski resorts such as Killington, the largest ski area on the East Coast, and family-friendly Smugglers' Notch, where winter activities include all-day ski camps for kids as young as 3, family snowshoe scavenger hunts and a weekly winter carnival. On any summer voyage to Vermont, don't overlook other notable resorts such as Okemo, where you can ride what's essentially an enclosed flying couch – skiers will know it as a bubble chairlift – and hike to a historic fire tower for 360-degree mountain views.

Trapp Family Lodge: Stowe

One of the hotels that make Stowe a popular place to stay is the Trapp Family Lodge , owned by the von Trapp family (yes, that von Trapp family). After the Trapp Family Singers toured the U.S. in the early 1940s, they decided to settle on a farm in Stowe, which reminded them of their home country, Austria . In the summer of 1950, the family opened a 27-room lodge. Later destroyed by a fire, the Trapp Family Lodge was rebuilt with a variety of accommodations, activities and on-site dining. It now includes von Trapp Brewing, where you can drink in the resort's history, mountain views, and a craft beer or two.

Address: 700 Trapp Hill Road, Stowe, VT 05672

Follow the Vermont Cheese Trail

All roads lead to cheese on the Vermont Cheese Trail, consisting of more than 45 award-winning cheesemakers such as Cabot Creamery. Some farms provide tastings and/or tours, while others simply sell their best products. Check out an online map of the Vermont Cheese Trail to see each cheesemaker's location and offerings.

Wondering where to begin your cheesy commute through Vermont? If you like aged cheddar, stop at Grafton Village Cheese or Shelburne Farms. For goat cheese, try the chevre varieties at Blue Ledge Farm. You also can't go wrong with the offerings at Consider Bardwell Cheese. No matter where you go, the products made by Jasper Hill Farm – whose cheeses rank among the best in the world – are more than worth a taste. While its location in the Northeast Kingdom region isn't open to the public, Jasper Hill Farm's artisanal cheeses can be found at Vermont grocery stores (and at select stores throughout the U.S.).

Liberty Hill Farm: Rochester

Courtesy of Liberty Hill Farm

For a look at where the cheese process begins, Liberty Hill Farm offers tours and overnight accommodations. Guests of this dairy farm's cozy bed-and-breakfast enjoy a farm-fresh morning meal and a hardy dinner each day of their stay – with ingredients including Cabot Creamery dairy products. The biggest draw of a visit to Liberty Hill Farm, however, is the opportunity to feed and milk the resident cows – or even baby calves. Even if you don't decide to stay at the inn, you can still book this activity through Airbnb Experiences .

When you aren't doing kid-approved farm chores or meeting the animals, you will find plenty to do in the surrounding area. Previous guests, especially families with young children, say their farm experience was enriching, adding that the home-cooked meals are exceptionally good.

Address: 511 Liberty Hill, Rochester, VT 05767

Explore the general stores

Courtesy of F.H. Gillingham and Sons

For all things Americana and Vermont, take some time to browse a cozy general store or two. The Vermont Country Store is the most famous, of course, with two locations in the state selling everything from candy and gifts to clothing and kitchenware.

Even more interesting is to explore the nearest local general store, like the F.H. Gillingham & Sons store in Woodstock. One of Vermont's oldest general stores still run by the same family, it's owned by descendants of Frank Henry Gillingham, who opened the general store in 1886, and Franklin Billings. Its original customer guarantee, "Your money's worth or your money back," is still honored today. Previous patrons love the vintage vibe of this store, with some calling F.H. Gillingham and Sons a mandatory stop in Woodstock.

Tips on Trips and Expert Picks Newsletter

Travel tips, vacation ideas and more to make your next vacation stellar.

Sign up to receive the latest updates from U.S News & World Report and our trusted partners and sponsors. By clicking submit, you are agreeing to our Terms and Conditions & Privacy Policy .

Visit the former house and grave of Robert Frost

Courtesy of Credit Bennington College

If you've ever enjoyed Robert Frost's poetry, head to the southwest corner of the state to learn more about the time he spent there. The first poet laureate of Vermont lived in a house in Shaftsbury in the 1920s that has since become the Robert Frost Stone House Museum; visitors can see the room where in 1922 Frost wrote his renowned poem "Stopping by Woods on a Snowy Evening." Explore the poet's life through letters, writing drafts, notes and other documents at this house museum, which is open seasonally from May through October.

Less than 5 miles away, you can make a pit stop at a historic cemetery in Old Bennington, located next to the Old First Church, to visit his grave, which is etched with a line of his poetry: "I had a lover's quarrel with the world." This burial ground is near the visit-worthy Bennington Battle Monument, a storied structure that happens to be the tallest building in Vermont.

Address: 121 Vermont Route 7A, Shaftsbury, VT 05262

Grafton Inn: Grafton

Hang your hat where Ulysses S. Grant, Theodore Roosevelt, Woodrow Wilson, Ralph Waldo Emerson and other well-known figures once hung theirs. You'll see those names and the names of other famous guests in the cozy lobby of this inn, a member of the Historic Hotels of America. Grafton Inn offers individually (and beautifully) furnished rooms, suites and guesthouses on top of farm-to-table dining. The 1801 Tavern also houses the Pine Room Bar, and the Phelps Barn Pub offers live music on select evenings.

On-site activities include yoga, tennis, pickleball and swimming in the pond. Trail passes and equipment rentals are included in the resort fee, so guests also have easy access to hiking, mountain biking and disc golf in the summer months, as well as cross-country skiing, snow tubing, snowshoeing and sleigh rides in the winter. There may not be tons to do in the village of Grafton itself – it's a small town with a sugar house, a cheese shop and a gift shop – but that's the allure.

Address: 92 Main St., Grafton, VT 05146

Shelburne Museum: Shelburne

Courtesy of Shelburne Museum

The Shelburne Museum has a little bit of everything, with attractions and activities located both indoors and out: The 39 buildings housing its collections are scattered across 45 acres. One popular exhibition can be found in the Circus Building, where you can ogle the fantastical, miniature Arnold Circus Parade, a handcarved display that nearly runs the length of the 518-foot building.

This unconventional museum also features historic Vermont structures, including a rare two-lane covered bridge from 1845, a Lake Champlain lighthouse from 1871 and the 1906 Ticonderoga – a restored 220-foot steamboat and National Historic Landmark that visitors can freely explore. Reviewers say the admission cost may be a bit steep but assure you'll understand why once you see just how special this museum is. Note that the Shelburne Museum is open seasonally from May to October.

Address: 6000 Shelburne Road, Shelburne, VT 05482

The Tyler Place Family Resort: Highgate Springs

Courtesy of The Tyler Place Family Resort

Did you know there are all-inclusive resorts in Vermont? The Tyler Place Family Resort in Highgate Springs is a classic resort offering a variety of cozy accommodations such as cottages with screened porches and kitchenettes – but not kitchens, since buffet-style breakfast, lunch and dinner are included in nightly rates. Speaking of meals, The Tyler Place has a unique setup for dinner: Adults are encouraged to enjoy a quiet meal while children – who get to eat earlier – play with the newfound friends and counselors they meet via the resort's award-winning programs for kids.

Together, families enjoy a seemingly endless array of activities, from banana boating and water skiing on Lake Champlain to biking around the property and exploring the gardens. Note that The Tyler Place is open seasonally from May to September and, with the exception of Memorial Day and Labor Day weekends, requires a Saturday-to-Saturday reservation. Families rave about their stay at the resort, noting that it provides the perfect balance of alone time and family time.

Address: 175 Tyler Place, Highgate Springs, VT 05460

Northeast Kingdom

Referred to by locals as the Northeast Kingdom for its natural splendor, this region in the northeast corner of Vermont borders Canada and is more remote than most places in the state (if you can believe it). In addition to its beauty, this area boasts charming dining and lodging options alongside opportunities for agritourism and ecotourism. Explore the many vacation destinations along the Northeast Kingdom Byway – a 51-mile stretch that makes for a scenic driving tour – including Lake Willoughby, Mount Pisgah and Burke Mountain resort.

Animal lovers may want to check out Saint Johnsbury, which has a lively downtown area and the one-of-a-kind Dog Mountain. The 150-acre property is a haven for people and dogs (leashes optional), featuring trails, ponds, the Stephen Huneck Gallery and the Dog Chapel – a tribute to beloved departed pets. Newport, a small city with lots of water activities on Lake Memphremagog, is another potential stop in the Northeast Kingdom. Not quite along the byway but still worth a visit is the town of Jay, home to Jay Peak Resort and the Pump House indoor water park (the only one of its kind in Vermont).

Dorian Sanders | Courtesy of Billings Farm & Museum

Not only is wandering through the picturesque village of Woodstock worth the trip, but you'll also find some quintessential Vermont experiences here. Learn about the history of farm life and pet farm animals at Billings Farm & Museum, or simply stroll along the scenic walking trail and gardens there – including the 20,000-square-foot Sunflower House in mid-to-late August. Across the street, visit the Marsh-Billings-Rockefeller National Historical Park, the only national park dedicated to conservation history in the U.S. There are 20-plus miles of trails, and ranger-led programs allow visitors to explore the impressive mansion on-site while learning about the conservation legacy of the families who lived there.

Tuck in for the night at the Woodstock Inn & Resort , one of the best hotels in Vermont . This historic inn has roots dating back to 1793 and was purchased by Laurance and Mary Rockefeller in 1967. Today, it offers lovely guest rooms and suites (including pet-friendly options) that combine the Rockefellers' love of nature and historic preservation. Guests can also enjoy its distinct restaurants – including the award-winning Red Rooster – plus a top-rated spa and an activity center where you can arrange off-site excursions such as fly-fishing and mountain biking.

Twin Farms: Barnard

Courtesy of Twin Farms

If you're looking for a romantic getaway in Vermont , book a stay at adults-only Twin Farms , another one of the best Vermont hotels. At this intimate, all-inclusive hotel tucked into the countryside, guests have a choice of upscale yet cozy guest rooms, suites, cottages and luxury treehouses . Or, stay at the Farmhouse, whose four suites can be booked individually or together for groups. Select cottages at Twin Farms allow up to two dogs, with beds, blankets, treats, bowls and waste cans included in the additional pet fee.

Unique activities include bee tours, ax throwing and archery when the weather is warm; in the colder months, guests can enjoy options like skiing, ice fishing and skating. Of course, the Bridge House Spa and The Furo – a serene Japanese-inspired bath house surrounded by forest views – is perfect any time of year, as is the seasonally inspired food and wine program. In fact, Twin Farms places an emphasis on the dining experience, with premium meal options including gourmet picnic lunches and private dinners in the on-site wine cellar. Previous guests can't say enough good things about Twin Farms, noting the service is beyond compare.

Address: 452 Royalton Turnpike, Barnard, VT 05031

Marvel at the natural wonders of Vermont state parks

Each year, hundreds of thousands of visitors make the journey to Quechee State Park to see the Quechee Gorge – a 165-foot-deep canyon formed by glacial activity roughly 13,000 years ago. Past visitors say it's well worth the trip for the gorgeous (or gorge-ous) views from the bridge over the drop to the Ottauquechee River and from the bottom of a short hiking trail to the river's edge, particularly during foliage season. Beyond lookout points, the park offers plenty of outdoor activities like camping and fishing. Discover more about the great outdoors at the Vermont Institute of Natural Science's nearby Nature Center, which operates an educational avian wildlife rehabilitation clinic.

Emerald Lake State Park is a hiker favorite for its proximity to the Long Trail through the Green Mountains and the Appalachian Trail. Unique adventure-seekers might enjoy gold panning at Camp Plymouth State Park, watching ice climbers at Smugglers' Notch State Park in winter, and seeing hang gliders at Mount Ascutney State Park in the warmer months. Vermont has more than 50 state parks in total – a pretty impressive number for such a small state – so you are likely never far from a park worth exploring.

Hildene, The Lincoln Family Home: Manchester

Courtesy of Hildene, The Lincoln Family Home

Abraham Lincoln may have been born to humble beginnings in a log cabin, but one generation later, his son Robert Lincoln became chairman of the Pullman Company, the largest manufacturing company of the day. Robert Lincoln and his wife Mary built the Hildene estate in Manchester in 1905 as a summer home, and only Lincoln descendants called it home until 1975.

Today, it stands as a memorial to the Lincoln family where visitors can take a self-guided tour of the impressive Georgian revival mansion and gardens, Lincoln-centric exhibits, Hildene's goat dairy farm, and about 12 miles of walking trails. Recent visitors praise the property as a slice of American history and a generally beautiful area to spend the day exploring.

Address: 1005 Hildene Road, Manchester, VT  05255

Why Trust U.S. News Travel

Amanda Norcross has traveled to Vermont several times, and has always been charmed by its small towns and bucolic scenery. Lake Champlain, in particular, holds a special place in her heart.

Mariya Greeley is a writer based in Portland, Maine. She grew up on the border of New Hampshire and Vermont. Though Greeley has traveled to a dozen countries and lived everywhere from Maui, Hawaii, to Washington, D.C., New England remains her favorite corner of the world to explore – usually with a book or dog leash in hand – and share through her writing.

You might also be interested in:

• The Top Things to Do in New Hampshire
• The Top Things to Do in Maine
• The Top Things to Do in Rhode Island
• The Best Carry-on Backpacks
• The Best Fanny Packs and Belt Bags for Travel

Tags: Travel , New England Vacations

World's Best Places To Visit

• # 1 South Island, New Zealand
• # 4 Bora Bora

If you make a purchase from our site, we may earn a commission. This does not affect the quality or independence of our editorial content.

You May Also Like

The best weekend getaways from nyc.

Alissa Grisler and Jessica Colley Clarke Sept. 5, 2024

The Best Beach Resorts in the World

Sept. 5, 2024

The 10 Best Rome Food Tours

Laura Itzkowitz Sept. 4, 2024

Top Things to Do in Hershey, PA

Amanda Norcross Aug. 30, 2024

The Best College Town Hotels

Rachael Hood Aug. 29, 2024

Fun Fall Weekend Getaways

Aug. 29, 2024

Best Hoover Dam Tours from Las Vegas

Holly Johnson and Ann Henson Aug. 29, 2024

The Best London Tours

Kim Foley MacKinnon Aug. 29, 2024

The 18 Best Barcelona Tours

John Rodwan Aug. 28, 2024

Best Fall Family Vacations

Aug. 27, 2024

Craft beer, localvore life, pristine nature: here's the best of Vermont

Aug 24, 2021 • 6 min read

Stowe is one of Vermont's many scenic towns, no matter the season © DonLand / Shutterstock

Farmer's markets, localvore restaurants, arts and crafts, rural charm, pristine nature and a wealth of history – whatever you’re seeking,  Vermont has it. 

Tucked between six-million-acre Adirondack Park, New Hampshire and the Atlantic Coast, the Green Mountain State is friendly, welcoming and teeming with opportunities to explore in all seasons. Whether you splash around on the shores of one the state's more than 800 lakes, pick ripe apples from the tree or sample maple syrup as it comes out of the boiler, the smallest state capital in the US is ready for adventure. 

Everything feels accessible in Vermont, and it’s easy to put together an itinerary that incorporates so many different kinds of outdoor activities in one day. Whether you're visiting for  Open Studio Weekend , when Vermont’s artists welcome visitors to the spaces where they create, or you want to follow the state’s beer or spirits trail, here’s our list of the best places to visit in Vermont. 

Church Street Marketplace, Burlington

In the heart of Burlington , Vermont’s biggest city, is Church Street , a pedestrian mall lined with charming boutiques, superb restaurants, and of course the mandatory Ben & Jerry's. In summer, musicians and street performers delight visitors, while food cart vendors have got delicious local snacks. Shop ‘til you drop and use Church Street as a launchpad for exploring the Queen City. Don't pass up a visit to the calming Lake Champlain shore, only a few blocks away. 

With 7500 residents, Montpelier is the US's smallest state capital by population. This city's focal point is the monumental 1859 Vermont State House, the state's gold-domed Greek Revival capitol. Take some time to visit the landmark's excellent art collection which has decorative and fine art exhibits, some from its permanent collection, and some traveling. Next door at the Vermont History Museum , exhibits recount the state's early history, highlighting Ethan Allen's 18th-century adventures. Meander through downtown Montpelier for bakeries, restaurants, shops and more before heading to Hubbard Park's  observation tower for some of the best views of the capital.  

Vermont’s 7 best hiking trails

Surrounded by rolling hills and stately horse farms, Woodstock is steeped in history. In 1786, it was a center of commerce, home to both industry and art, and one of Vermont’s largest and wealthiest towns. Relics from that golden era still remain as the town's  Woodstock Inn & Resort attracts city-dwellers to the country for a high-end weekend getaway.  

Visit the circa 1880 pink sandstone Norman Williams Public Library , or Billings Farm & Museum , a functioning dairy farm with an 1890 farmhouse and exhibits that depict farm life like it used to be. 

Nearby, a web of trails in Marsh-Billings-Rockefeller National Historical Park (the state’s first national park) invites walkers and nature lovers to explore. Take a dip or drop a line in the Ottauquechee River. It flows through the center of town and under the area's three historic covered bridges.

Most of the year, the three Villages that comprise Tunbridge, Vermont are pretty quiet. A few visitors wander to admire their five covered bridges, But in mid-September, Tunbridge comes alive. Vermont has many agricultural fairs, but the Tunbridge World’s Fair , which has taken place in Tunbridge continuously since 1867, is the most famous.

Held in mid-September, the fair features farming and agricultural demonstrations and contests, both modern and historical, as well as arm wrestling, ox pulls and displays of the biggest and best produce and pies Vermonters can grow or make. Rides, contra dancing and a fantastic beer garden round out the offerings. But it’s the pig race that steals the show. 

Just off of Mount Mansfield (Vermont's highest peak), Stowe is a classic New England town packed with local commerce and surrounded by natural beauty and landmarked by the historic white spires of Community Church. 

For the best of the area's nature trails, hop on a mountain bike for a tour of Cady Hill before rewarding yourself with a fresh-from-the-farm lunch at the Sunday farmer's market. Stay on the bike to glide along Stowe’s riverside rec path and route to one of the town’s many swimming holes. Stowe is famous for its superb skiing, both alpine and Nordic. Even if it’s not ski season,  Vermont’s Ski History Museum brings skiing alive through its collections of gear and artifacts from ski seasons past. 

Drive the Mt. Mansfield Toll Road or hike the Long Trail to the summit of Mt. Mansfield for sweeping views of New England. Catch the Vermont Symphony Orchestra for a concert at Trapp Family Lodge ; the stunning sunset and superb music will make it unforgettable. 

Vermont’s best road trips  

Lake Willoughby, Northeast Kingdom

Five miles long and up to 320ft deep, Lake Willoughby is a glacially-formed lake that’s a National Natural Landmark. Carved deep into Vermont’s Northeast Kingdom, the lake lies between Mt. Pisgah and Mt. Hor, which together form the fjord-like Willoughby Gap. 

In the late 1800s, steamboats paraded visitors around the lake. Now, public beaches at the north and south ends provide summer fun for swimmers and paddlers. Fishermen cast a line here for lake and rainbow trout, landlocked Atlantic salmon and native round whitefish. 

At least 100 bird species populate this waterway: thrushes, warblers, hummingbirds, jays, finches, loons, herons, gulls and the rare peregrine falcon, which nests in the cliffs of Mt. Pisgah and Mt. Hor. 

Smuggler’s Notch

During the War of 1812, the twisty, windy, cliff-lined, boulder-strewn mountain horse path between Underhill and Stowe was the mainline for supplies going to and coming from Canada. It played a similar role for booze during prohibition. And it was also part of the Underground Railroad. Now, a narrow, snaking road replaces the historic path through Mt. Mansfield State Forest. 

Drive it and explore the boulder field at the top where smugglers hid, and where now you’ll see rock climbers and boulderers ascending. Though the Notch is closed in winter, it’s just as busy with skiers, snowshoers, sledders and ice climbers. 

Lake Champlain

The sixth-largest lake in the United States, Lake Champlain , forms the western border of Vermont. At times, it's been a Revolutionary War battleground, a supplier of ships in the War of 1812, a "line” in the Underground Railroad and home to the mythical monster Vermonters affectionately call “ champ .” 

At 125 miles long and nearly 15 miles wide, the freshwater lake is sprinkled with motorboats, paddle boats and sailboats in the summer. Put in at any of the boat launches, marinas or beaches, and you could follow the lake north to Quebec via the Richlieu and St. Lawrence Rivers, or south to the Hudson River and Manhattan. 

Take a ferry to New York, including the historic Ticonderoga cable ferry (currently closed due to the COVID-19 pandemic, check their website for updates) or splash around on one of the lake’s many public beaches.

Explore the Champlain Islands, north of Burlington, and sample from the region’s best wineries, or pick apples in the Lake Shore’s fertile groves. Beneath its sometimes glassy, sometimes turbulent surface lies 300 historic shipwrecks. Dive them or learn about them at  Lake Champlain Maritime Museum . Lake Champlain is also one of the top bass fishing lakes in North America. 

You might also like:

5 US ski towns for people who hate skiing The 12 best-secluded cabins to rent in the Northeast USA   Audiobooks to narrate your US road trip

Explore related stories

Tips & Advice

Sep 3, 2024 • 6 min read

Where to even start with travel in the US – the sheer scale is overwhelming. Let us do the hard work with our 12 favorite places to visit in the USA.

Jul 24, 2024 • 8 min read

Jun 21, 2024 • 5 min read

Jun 21, 2024 • 9 min read

Jun 7, 2024 • 10 min read

Apr 29, 2024 • 5 min read

Apr 15, 2024 • 11 min read

Apr 14, 2024 • 8 min read

Apr 13, 2024 • 8 min read

Apr 12, 2024 • 8 min read

• 8 of the Most Charming Small Towns to Visit in Vermont

In the New England region of Northeast America lies a landlocked state, also dubbed the Green Mountain State, popular for the forests that corner it, the mountainous terrain that includes the famous Green Mountains, and its much-respected maple syrup.

Known for its liberal politics, Vermont also happens to be the second least populous state in the United States of America . This state is a regular tourist spot as thousands of people from different parts of the world throng in, especially during fall, to witness its fall foliage.

The natural landscape of Vermont is an immersive and exciting experience for tourists. This state’s small size and population make it the ideal vacation destination, as you can enjoy the charm and idyllic nature of the town. If you want to visit Vermont for leisure, then you should check out these eight charming towns that will make your holiday worthwhile.

Situated along the Mad River Valley, which provides water power for the town's mills, Waitsfield was created in February 1782 by a small Vermont charter and later named after General Benjamin Wait. Waitsfield has since evolved from an agrarian town to being a desired tourist destination popularly known for its ski resorts.

For an unforgettable experience, you have to begin at Mad River Glen, which has one of the most unique and challenging ski experiences in the East. The town is really invested in skiing, and you would meet most of the locals there.

You could also experience the arts and culture scene in Waitsfield at the Big Picture Theater and Cafe and the Mad River Glass Gallery. For the best hiking and biking experience, you should pay a visit to the Mad River Path, as it has a network of trails that you would not find anywhere in the country.

Founded in 1749 and located in southwest Vermont is Bennington , one of the earliest settlements in Vermont, which is famous for its role in the Revolutionary War , particularly the 1777 Battle of Bennington . Following the war, the Battle of Bennington monument was erected to commemorate the victory.

The monument is the tallest structure in Vermont, and visitors can get a view of the obelisk from a distance.

The Bennington Museum has an impressive collection of artifacts and art, such as the Grandma Moses collection, which is an ideal spot for history enthusiasts. You can also visit the Bennington Center for Arts to see more paintings and collections.

Willow Park, downtown Bennington, has a large playground for kids, an 18-hole disc golf course, and athletic fields, which you can visit during the day. You might also like to visit Bennington College and Burt Henry Covered Bridge to learn about the great history of the town.

Just thirty minutes off Bennington is Manchester , the second shire county in Bennington, Vermont. This town is the favorite tourist destination for folks coming from New York and Connecticut looking for a place to stay away from the hustle and bustle of the city.

Amongst the many landmarks and attractions in Manchester is the Hildene Mansion. The Georgian Revival-style mansion is the summer home of Robert Todd Lincoln, the only child of President Abraham Lincoln .

Mount Equinox is one of the popular sights in the town and is good for hiking. In Manchester, the Riverwalk offers a scenic exploration along the West Branch of the Battenkill, distinct from the nearby Mount Equinox, where the Southern Vermont Arts Center (SVAC) provides cultural enrichment with art exhibitions and collections from regional artists such as Robert Strong Woodward and Ogden Pleissner.

Chartered in 1761, Woodstock is the shire town of Windsor County. The rapid development of Woodstock was due to the abundant water power of the Ottauquechee River, which also facilitated the development of various mills along the river path.

The town's unwavering commitment to preserving and appreciating the natural environment has earned it the status of the prettiest small town in America, as its scenic mountain and forest backdrop is constantly maintained. Sites of interest in Woodstock include the Marsh-Billings-Rockefeller National Park, which provides amazing insights into America's history.

The Lincoln-covered bridge built in 1877 will grab your attention if you are a history buff, as well as the Billings Farm and Museum, which provides visitors an opportunity to learn about sustainable farm practices and 19th-century farm activities. Woodstock Historical Society & Dana House Museum houses paintings, textiles, and clothing that you might love.

Brattleboro

Sited in southeast Vermont, Brattleboro is a charming town with a rich history and a vibrant arts scene. Popularly known as the Gateway to Vermont, Brattleboro offers visitors a perfect blend of cultural attractions and outdoor adventures.

The Brattleboro Museum & Art Center is a popular attraction in town as it showcases contemporary art exhibitions and gives insight into regional history. For outdoor enthusiasts, the nearby Connecticut River offers opportunities for kayaking, fishing, and scenic boat tours. The Gibson Aiken Center and Living Memorial Park are great spots to host the family.

Brattleboro hosts various festivals and events to celebrate the town's culture and heritage, and you do not want to miss them. The Strolling of the Heifers Parade is held annually in June. This unique parade features colorful floats, live music, and herds of decorated cows, referencing Vermont's agricultural heritage.

St. Johnsbury

Located in Vermont's idyllic Northeast Kingdom, St. Johnsbury is a charming town renowned in history and surrounded by natural beauty. In the mid-19th century, it was a minor manufacturing center for scales and Maple syrup.

The town is deeply connected to its roots and places such as St. Johnsbury Athenaeum, a historic library and art gallery where you can see a collection of fine art and rare books, and the Fairbanks Museum and Planetarium, where visitors can explore exhibits on natural history, science is a must-visit location.

Outdoor enthusiasts will appreciate the nearby trails of the Kingdom Trails network for hiking, biking, and cross-country skiing. Cherry House Bed and Breakfast and Fairbanks Inn are spots in town where you can enjoy the food and hospitality of the town.

St. Johnsbury hosts the Colors of the Kingdom Autumn in September, during which you can enjoy live music, craft vendors, and seasonal activities.

Nestled in the Green Mountains is a charming town, also known as the birthplace of Vermont. This town is called Windsor, and its history dates back to the colonial era. Interestingly, Windsor is home to the Old Constitution House, which housed the creation of Vermont's first constitution, which was adopted in 1777.

Do not miss an opportunity to visit the American Precision Museum for a glimpse into the innovation and manufacturing history of America. The Ascutney Trails are perfect for hiking and mountain biking and getting acquainted with stunning views of the countryside.

Windsor also hosts several festivals, such as the Vermont History Expo in June, where visitors can immerse themselves in Vermont's rich cultural heritage. In September, the town comes alive with the annual Vermont Golden Honey Festival, celebrating the state's beekeeping industry.

Newport is said to be the most charming town in all of Vermont. By experiencing the stunning views of the mountainside, you would tell a tale of the most beautiful place you have seen.

The all-year-round recreational nature of this town makes it a popular destination for both outdoor and nature enthusiasts. For the best local food and accommodation, try the Newport Motel, Derby Four Seasons, or Tavern on the Hill. For outdoor adventure, the incredible Mount Pisgah State Park has miles of hiking trails overlooked by the breathtaking sights of Lake Memphremagog and the surrounding countryside. Be sure to experience the annual Winter Festival in February and the Newport Jazz Festival in the summer, where you can enjoy excellent jazz music from world-renowned musicians. Do not miss a visit to the MAC Center for the Arts, where the works of local artists and artisans are displayed.

Discover Vermont's Quiet Charm

If you enjoy beautiful landscapes and small charming towns, Vermont is your ideal destination. With a rich historical connection, tranquility, and beautifully colored horizons, Vermont offers a breathtaking yet simple getaway from whatever may stress you. These towns are the finer things of life on a platter of gold. You should take up this offer and live life to the fullest and best, even if it is for just a while.

More in Places

8 Whimsical Towns to Visit in New Hampshire

7 Most Bike-Friendly Towns in Florida

8 Welcoming Towns to Retire in Florida's Emerald Coast

8 Undiscovered Small Towns in Massachusetts

6 Whimsical Towns to Visit in New England

11 Most Laid-Back Small Towns in California

9 Picturesque Towns in Tennessee for a Weekend Retreat in 2024

7 Towns in North Carolina With Unique Traditions

Touropia Travel

Discover the World

10 Best Places to Visit in Vermont

By Carl Austin · Last updated on October 3, 2023

Vermont is a state that begs to be photographed. The entire state is like a gigantic picture postcard that is filled with scenic beauty at every turn, historic buildings and towns that are considered some of the prettiest in the United States.

Fall is a delight as the leaves turn their gorgeous colors. Winter is great for skiing and snow activities. Spring and summer offer a plethora of festivals and outdoor activities, such as camping and hiking. Yep, Vermont’s got it all. Here’s a look at the best places to visit in Vermont:

10. Woodstock

When you hear Woodstock, your first thought is probably of the famous music festival. You’d be wrong: wrong state. Vermont’s Woodstock is far, far from a rock festival. It’s a sleepy village that has been described as quaint meets charming.

This picture postcard village is considered one of the prettiest small towns in America, and has the plaque to prove it. It’s a place to drive over a picturesque red covered bridge, visit a sugar maple farm, breathe in the crisp air as you hike in the surrounding mountains and shop at unique boutiques and galleries.

9. Quechee Gorge

Quechee Gorge is Vermont’s answer to the Grand Canyon. Not as big as its cousin in the distant West, it still provides some pretty views. At 165 feet deep, it is the deepest gorge in the Green Mountain state. The gorge was formed by glacial action 13,000 years ago.

The Ottauquechee River provides exciting whitewater rafting at the bottom. Less adventurous travelers can walk to Mill Pond Falls that cascade down 30 feet. The historic Quechee Gorge Bridge connects the banks. Built in 1911; it is Vermont’s oldest surviving steel arch bridge.

8. Manchester

Manchester has many things going for it. It’s an historic town that makes a good base from which to explore the Green Mountains. It’s got lots of shopping, including outlet malls that attract people from New York and Connecticut .

Named after an English duke of Manchester, the town first made history between 1812 and 1819 for being the home of America’s first wrongful murder conviction case, a case that’s studied even today. Most historic towns in Vermont only have one historic district, but Manchester has three: Depot district, and Bonnet and Main streets.

7. Montpelier

Montpelier has the dubious distinction of being the least populated state capital in the United States. At least it is at night; the daytime population triples as people come to work for the state government. The city is named for a city in France in honor of that country’s contributions during the American Revolution.

Visiting the State House is the No. 1 thing to do in Montpelier, but if you’ve got a sweet tooth, you’ll want to visit a maple sugar/syrup factory. Stop by the statue of Ethan Allen, a Revolutionary War hero and a founder of Vermont.

6. Shelburne

Shelburne is a quiet town seven miles south of Burlington, the Vermont’s largest city. Founded in 1763, it was named for William Petty, earl of Shelburne and British prime minister. It has deep roots in farming, and several farms, including vineyards, are open to the public.

Its most visited attraction, however, just may be one devoted to making your kids happy. Open for tours, the Vermont Teddy Bear Co. has been making cute, cuddly teddy bears since 1981, and is one of Vermont’s more popular attractions. If you like water better, Shelburne is located on Lake Champlain.

5. Killington Resort

If you’re an adventuresome skier, you may want to hit the slopes at Killington Resort on Vermont’s second highest mountain. It’s known as the “beast of the East” because it’s the largest vertical drop in New England. Killington, which opened in 1958, is the largest ski area in the eastern United States.

While Killington Peak is the primary ski area, the resort also offers skiing across six mountains. There are 155 trails that handle skiers from beginners to experts and 21 lifts to carry them up the mountains. A few of the trails have ramps and jumps.

Grafton, considered one of New England’s prettiest towns, got its name in a unique way. Originally known as Thomlinson, the right to rename it garnered $5 and some rum in an action; the winning bidder named it after his home town of Grafton, Massachusetts.

Homes and buildings have been restored to their historic grandeur, so Grafton looks pretty much like It might have a century or two ago. Be sure to check out the Grafton Inn, which has been operating as a hotel since 1801. Standing guard over the village is the iconic White Church that was built in 1858.

3. Champlain Islands

When the outdoors beckons, the Champlain Islands are one of the best places to visit in Vermont. The islands are an archipelago, perhaps a total of 30 miles long, located in Lake Champlain that separates Vermont and New York.

Reachable by ferry, they provide some of the most scenic drives in Vermont, a state that is known for scenic drives. In the summer, you can camp, visit the state’s first vineyard or cycle the scenic Island Line Trail. You can go ice-fishing in the winter. And, best of all, you won’t have to worry about running into a lot of other people since the largest town in the chain counts only 2,000 residents.

Stowe keeps visitors busy all year ‘round. There’s skiing and snow sports in the winter, and festivals, including one featuring balloons, and art shows in the summer. One of the biggest is September’s British Invasion, when fields are filled with all makes and models of British automobiles.

Stowe is a must-visit if you’re a Sound of Music fan. It’s where the von Trapp family settled and operated a ski lodge after they fled Austria during World War II. The lodge’s meadow was a venue for the Vermont Mozart Festival. You can also hike and mountain-bike on nearby trails.

1. Burlington

OK. Admit it. You love ice cream, especially if it’s made by Ben and Jerry. Burlington may be known for many things, but it’s likely most famous as the home of this sinfully delicious ice cream. The town is located on the shores of Lake Champlain, so there are plenty of water activities to burn off those calories.

The four-block pedestrian mall known as Church Street Marketplace hosts a variety of festivals throughout the year. They range from art to celebrating beer and giant pumpkins. It also hosts one of the largest year ‘round farmers markets in Vermont.

Map of Places to Visit in Vermont

Share this post:

10 Best Places to Visit in Connecticut

15 Most Charming Small Towns in Vermont

21 Best Things to do in Vermont

15 Best Things to do in Maine

10 Best Places to Visit in Rhode Island

14 Best Things to do in Stowe, VT

11 Best Things to Do in Burlington, VT

25 Top Tourist Attractions in the USA

12 Most Beautiful Regions of the United States

23 Most Beautiful Islands in the US

Reader interactions.

January 2, 2020 at 11:50 am

Woodstock not listed in voting!!!

Leave a Reply Cancel reply

Your email address will not be published. Required fields are marked *

This site uses Akismet to reduce spam. Learn how your comment data is processed .

50 Things to Do in Vermont: Bucket List & Travel Guide (2024)

• Latest Posts

• 21 Family Vacations in New England for Every Season (2024) - February 26, 2024
• 15 Wonderful Weekend Getaways in Maine (2024) - February 3, 2024
• 33 Best Beach Towns in New England to Visit in 2024 🌊 - January 28, 2024

There are so many amazing things to do in Vermont. I should know, because I lived there for 15 years! From hikes and small towns to local foods and snowy peaks, this small state packs a lot into its 9,616 square miles.

I truly love Vermont, and I know you will, too! I have created this ultimate Vermont travel guide to help you plan your trip to Vermont.

In this guide I share 50 of my favorite things to do in Vermont, including the best places to visit in Vermont, fun VT activities in all seasons, and essential Vermont attractions.

Plus, I answer a few of the most frequently asked questions about visiting Vermont, including the best time to visit. I hope you have an epic adventure exploring our magical Green Mountain state!

Table of Contents

50 Best Things to Do in Vermont

In Vermont’s top destinations and beyond, here is a deeper look into the best and most fun things to do in Vermont in fall, winter, spring, or summer!

1. Go shopping and people-watching at Church Street Marketplace

One of the most well-known places to go in Vermont is Burlington’s Church Street Marketplace, a pedestrian-only thoroughfare that is bursting with restaurants, shops, and outdoor performers. This is an excellent spot for people-watching, but it’s also the center of the downtown space so there’s so much to do, and some of the best shopping in Vermont.

A few of the stores I recommend not to miss on Church Street include Lake Champlain Chocolates, Outdoor Gear Exchange, Homeport, Crow Bookshop, Ecco Clothes, and the Frog Hollow Craft Association and Gallery. Church Street alone could keep you busy all day, but there’s definitely a lot more to check out in VT’s largest city.

Check out my list of all the other cool things to do in Burlington Vermont!

2. Take a Vermont fall road trip (especially along Route 100)

A Vermont road trip is great at any time of year, but especially in the fall when the foliage is at its best; this would be a fun idea if you’re looking for what to do in Vermont in October!

One excellent option is a Route 100 road trip , which will take you almost the entire length of the state. If you’re looking for a shorter route, consider a quicker journey on one of these scenic Vermont drives.

3. Sample Vermont craft beers

Beer should be a part of your essential Vermont activities without a doubt. Vermont has dozens of craft breweries all around the state that are worth visiting. Vermont’s biggest city, Burlington, is home to a great many of these breweries , so you can check a lot off your list when visiting Burlington. Foam Brewers is one of the local favorites, with a great location near Lake Champlain. I really enjoy their sours!

4. Visit the Cold Hollow Cider Mill

One of the best places to visit in Vermont is the Cold Hollow Cider Mill , and it certainly is on every bucket list for Vermont in the fall !

Located in Waterbury, Vermont, on the road heading towards Stowe, this is a cider mill, apple-focused country store, restaurant, hard cidery, and more. It is completely adorable, perfectly fall, and smells like cinnamon heaven. Cold Hollow Cider Mill has been an institution in VT since the late 1970s and continues to be one of Vermont’s top tourist attractions. I guarantee you’ll leave here feeling cozy and happy from this perfect Vermont spot.

Grab a few locally-made products, tuck into a cold glass of cider, and above all, make sure to try the apple cider donuts which are out of this world.

5. Explore charming Woodstock, Vermont

One of best places to see in Vermont is the town of Woodstock. This destination is my top recommendation for someone coming to Vermont for the first time, as it encapsulates all that you imagine about Vermont!

Woodstock has been repeatedly named one of the most beautiful small towns  in America and I agree completely. Especially at Christmastime, Woodstock is one of those towns that  looks straight out of a Hallmark movie ! 

There are so many  great things to do in Woodstock in every season, such as hiking, visiting the Marsh-Billings-Rockefeller National Historical Park, and walking the charming Woodstock streets. Also be sure to visit F.H. Gillingham & Sons, the general store that has been in Woodstock since 1886 and offers one-of-a-kind specialty gifts for any occasion. 

6. Join one of Ben & Jerry’s Ice Cream Factory Tours

Want to visit one of the top Vermont attractions (and the yummiest)? I know where to send you! One of the best places to visit in Vermont is the original Ben & Jerry’s Ice Cream Factory . The entire place is so cute and creative, and as soon as you walk in, you’re enveloped in that oh-so-divine scent of ice cream and cookies. Ben & Jerry’s is great for anyone looking for good family fun in Vermont, too.

Take the Factory Tour, grab a free sample, or visit the quirky Flavor Graveyard to pay homage to short-lived flavors of the past. RIP “Makin’ Whoopie Pie.” This is one of those fun places to visit in Vermont that help to “keep Vermont cool!”

7. Hike to the summit of Camel’s Hump

New Hampshire isn’t the only state in New England to boast incredible hiking. Vermont is home to hundreds of miles of trails snaking across the Green Mountains. Hiking is one of the most fun things to do in VT, with summer and fall being the most popular seasons for hikes. In addition to the Long Trail, the Vermont section of the Appalachian Trail, there are countless others worth exploring in the Green Mountain National Forest. 

One of the  best hikes in Vermont  is to the top of Camel’s Hump. This distinctive peak can be seen from a great distance and looks—as you might expect—something like the hump of a camel. Take  this popular loop trail  to achieve the summit of the state’s 3rd highest peak–the view is exquisite at the height of fall foliage.

8. Check out the Trapp Family Lodge in Stowe

Visiting the Trapp Family Lodge is one of the best things to do around Stowe, VT . Did you know that the Von Trapp family, made famous by the film The Sound of Music , actually came to Vermont when they left Austria? They settled in the Stowe area, purportedly because it reminded them of their beloved Austrian alps. Here the family opened a hotel, and it remains one of the top places to visit in VT–and to stay!

Even if you don’t stay at the hotel, you can book many outdoor activities, like cross-country skiing or even sleigh rides (one of the best things to do in Vermont at Christmas , by the way!) Also make sure you admire the outside of the Bavarian-inspired inn, enjoy the phenomenal mountain views, and grab a drink and bite at their onsite brewery.

9. Swim in a cool Vermont lake

A day at the lake is one of the absolute best things to do in Vermont in summer ! Vermont’s lakes are absolutely gorgeous, and there are some fantastic lake house rentals in Vermont if you want a weekend getaway. My favorite lake in Vermont is Emerald Lake in East Dorset, VT. It’s name says it all! This spot is many hues of brilliant Vermont green all summer long. You can rent paddle boats and canoes for a quick trip around the small lake, or just swim in the shallows along the beach.

Fancy a swim? See more of  the best lakes in Vermont  and swimming holes.

10. Keep your eyes out for the Lake Monster

Looking for unique things to do in Vermont? Get a look at the Lake Monster!

Did you know that Vermont has its very own “Loch Ness” monster? Legend has it that Lake Champlain has a frightful creature lurking beneath its waters: the Lake Monster, also known as Champ. Keep close watch along the surface of the lake and you might just catch a glimpse of this elusive cryptid.

11. Explore the covered bridges

When it comes to what to see in Vermont, covered bridges are a must. And there are more than 100  covered bridges in Vermont ! These historic structures, most of which are still in use, are dotted throughout the state and are scenic points of interest in every season.

12. See the Lincoln family home, Hildene in Manchester

If you’re a fan of presidential history or pretty old houses with lovely gardens, you are sure to love Hildene, in the fun town of Manchester, VT. This property belonged to Abraham Lincoln’s son Robert Todd Lincoln. While the 16th President never resided here, you can view one of his iconic stovepipe top hats during your visit! Not only does the site boast a magnificent home that you can tour, there are also verdant gardens, breathtaking mountain views, and a working goat farm. Hildene also has a fantastic gift shop for grabbing your Vermont souvenirs.

Looking for more towns to explore? I’ve got a whole list of the most charming  small towns in Vermont  where you’re sure to find an idyllic utopia.

13. Walk, ride, or blade along the Burlington Bike Path

Stretching for miles throughout the city of Burlington and then further along the shores of Lake Champlain is the Burlington Bike Path. This route is beloved by avid cyclists, walkers, and visitors, as it offers some of the finest views of the magical lake and the Adirondacks in the distance.

You may want to continue onward on this trail even further, and you can! The Burlington Bike Path is part of the much longer Island Line Trail. Also known as the Colchester Causeway, this is a 13.4-mile rail trail that extends all the way to the Champlain Islands. At one point along the route, you will find yourself on a narrow strip of land with lake views all around you. It’s pretty epic.

14. Visit the Vermont Teddy Bear Factory

A visit to the iconic  Vermont Teddy Bear Factory  is one of the  best things to do in Vermont with kids . Vermont Teddy Bear is located in Shelburne, just south of Burlington. Kids will have a blast creating their own special bear: the ultimate Vermont souvenir!

15. Visit the baby animals at Billings Farm and Museum

Billings Farm and Museum  is a must-see Woodstock, Vermont attraction. A working and historic farm, boasting animals such as dairy cows, draft horses, sheep, as well as many hands-on activities, this is quintessential Vermont. Time your visit for the springtime and you may be in luck to be there for the annual Baby Farm Animal Celebration, which is just as cute as it sounds.

PS: Also don’t miss the adjacent Marsh-Billings-Rockefeller National Historical Park. This is a beautiful spot with nature trails, a Victorian mansion, and more.

🌸Read my best advice on things to do in Vermont in spring !

16. See where Robert Frost wrote some of his most famous poems

Robert Frost, widely known for his nature-inspired poetry and vivid New England descriptions, is one of the most well-known poets in American history. In fact, he was once the poet laureate of the Green Mountain State. In Shaftsbury, VT, visit the  Stone House Museum , historic buildings where the poet once lived and where he wrote several of his classic works, including “Stopping By Woods on a Snowy Evening.” PS: The current VT Poet Laureate is Mary Ruefle, who resides in nearby Bennington. Interestingly, that is the same town in which Robert Frost is buried. You can visit his grave in the cemetery at the Old Fist Church, Bennington.

Want to check out more things to do in the Bennington VT area ?

17. Tour the Rock of Ages Quarry – the biggest granite quarry in the world

The 600-foot deep  Rock of Ages Granite Quarry  (also known as Smith Quarry) located in Barre, Vermont is “the largest operating deep-hole, dimension granite quarry in the world.” And you can tour it!

If you’re looking for things to do in central Vermont, you may want to add a tour to this incredible quarry itinerary. Among things to do onsite is to bowl a game or two on their outdoor granite bowling lane; this is certainly one of the most unique places to visit in Vermont!

18. Go skiing at Stowe Mountain Resort

 Yes, there are things to do in Vermont in winter besides skiing, but can you really go on a Vermont vacation and not hit the slopes? Skiing is one of the most fun  things to do in Vermont in the winter , and should definitely be added to your VT bucket list! While you could hit the fresh pow’ at any of Vermont’s best mountain resorts , Stowe Mountain Resort is a terrific choice. This is a perfect place for a Vermont ski vacation, and it’s in a gorgeous area of the state.

Not interested in cruising downhill? Cross country skiing might be more your speed, and there are lots of awesome spots to do so in Vermont.

19. Visit a local farmer’s market

Farmer’s markets are extremely popular in Vermont, offering a chance to support the local food scene and serving up some of the best shopping in Vermont. In Burlington, the farmer’s market is held on Saturdays all summer long. If your trip to Vermont doesn’t coincide with a farmer’s market, you may be able to find a roadside farmstand selling fresh produce. They’re everywhere in Vermont in the warmer months.

20. Taste pure maple syrup from where it’s made best

Vermont is home of the world’s best maple syrup (though we can’t compete with Canada when it comes to quantity produced!) While you travel Vermont, be sure to sample some of this liquid gold. A sugarhouse like  Morse Farm Maple Sugarworks , in  Montpelier , is the perfect place to do so. You can sample maple syrup, find tons of maple-infused products, and learn how the syrup-making process works.

If you’re looking for things to do in Vermont in March, you’re just in time for sugaring season! Don’t miss the chance to try sugar on snow, a classic Vermont winter treat. There are also numerous other  Vermont sugar houses  you can check out; this is definitely on the list of fun activities in Vermont!

21. Spend time on a working farm: The Fat Sheep Farm

A Vermont farm stay is an amazing way to experience life on the farm, Vermont-style. There are a number of places you can do this by joining in for chores, learning about animals, crops, and more. My favorite is  Fat Sheep Farm.  My husband and I loved our stay there and definitely recommend the experience if you’re looking for more things to do near Woodstock!

22. Visit the top of the Bennington Battle Monument

Interested in historic sites? If you find yourself in Southern Vermont, you won’t want to miss the Bennington Battle Monument. And in fact, it’s hard TO miss, standing at 306ft and 4.5 inches tall! This iconic obelisk structure is visible for miles around. This also means that when you head to the top, you’re in for some sensational views of the surrounding Green Mountains.

23. Catch some fantastic live theatre

Vermont is a very artistic state; a culturally-happening place. Personally, I’m a big fan of Vermont theatre. The best place to catch a Broadway-caliber performance is at the  Weston Playhouse.  Some of the finest shows I’ve ever seen in my life were ones I’ve seen there, and this is one of those activities in Vermont where you can get a little dressed up and go show off for a while!

24. Drive to the top of Mt. Equinox

No list of beautiful places to visit in Vermont would be complete without  Mount Equinox in southwestern Vermont. Sitting at over 3,800 feet above sea level, it is the highest peak in the Taconic Mountains and the second highest mountain in the state. You can drive to the summit of Mount Equinox via Skyline Drive, the longest privately owned, paved toll road and one of the safest, best engineered toll roads in the United States.

But, while the 5-mile drive to the top offers outstanding views, the summit is the true showstopper. The summit of Mount Equinox is known for providing an astounding 360-degree view of the surrounding Green Mountains and Champlain Valley of Vermont, White Mountains of New Hampshire, Adirondack Mountains of New York, and Berkshire Mountains of Massachusetts.

25. Explore the Shelburne Museum

Shelburne Museum is an absolute gem and a must-visit on any Vermont itinerary, especially for those who appreciate a deep dive into history and culture. Located in the charming town of Shelburne, just a short drive from Burlington, this museum is not your typical indoor gallery. It’s an expansive, open-air museum that beautifully blends art, history, and architecture across its 45 acres.

Imagine wandering through over 39 distinct structures, each offering a unique glimpse into America’s past. From a steamboat to a lighthouse, historic houses to barns, the museum captivates with its diverse collection. And it’s not just about buildings; the museum boasts an impressive array of folk art, quilts, and even a carousel!

26. Check out the Old Round Church

Round buildings are really interesting, and Vermont is home to a few. The Old Round Church in Richmond is a historic site, and checking it out is one of my favorite cool things to do in Vermont. Technically not “round,” the Old Round Church is a sixteen-sided town meeting hall and place of worship built in 1812-1813. It’s definitely worth a visit, simply because it is so unique and photogenic, but also essential for history buffs.

27. Stop at Vermont Cookie Love when driving Route 7

If you have any kind of sweet tooth, you must go to Vermont Cookie Love. I’ve driven that road hundreds of times and the possibility of chocolatey goodness never fails to entice me. Located along Route 7 in North Ferrisburgh, the home of Vermont Cookie Love, aka the Love Shack, is waiting for you, too! What could be better than a fresh, warm cookie? These are baked with love (and consumed with abandon—at least in this house!)

28. Sail aboard a Lake Champlain day cruise

Lake Champlain is one of the top things to see in Vermont, and if you can get out on the water, all the better. If renting a boat or paddling a kayak isn’t your style, I suggest jumping aboard a Lake Champlain ferry or on a day cruise. There are several options for scenic cruises and boat rentals on Lake Champlain, and the experience is relaxing and fun; def one of the top Lake Champlain activities!

29. Explore Wilson Castle, a 19th-century castle

Did you know Vermont has some castles? Years ago, I visited one of Vermont’ hidden gems: Wilson Castle. While this “technically” is not a castle, it’s a pretty awesome mansion located in Proctor, Vermont, close to the city of  Rutland , and definitely on the list of things to do in central Vermont. Guided tours are offered.

30. Visit Bingham Falls

One of the prettiest places in Vermont Stowe’s  Bingham Falls  in the Mount Mansfield State Forest. Bingham Falls is a popular tourist destination, owing to its stunning 40-foot cascading waterfall and deep gorges. There are two commonly used trails to reach the falls. The shorter .5-mile long Bingham Falls Trail is steeper, emerging at the base of the falls. The longer but easier 1.3-mile Mill Trail has several offshoots leading to picturesque views of the falls from various angles. It’s location in Smuggler’s Notch State Park makes this is a can’t miss gorgeous Vermont location!  Read More:  Amazing Waterfalls in Vermont

31. Get spooked at Emily’s Bridge

 Vermont covered bridges are fascinating and historical, and some of them may also be haunted! Such is the case for the infamous Emily’s Bridge located in Stowe. Legend has it that Emily died at the bridge, hanging herself after being jilted by her lover. Tales from visitors report things like scratches appearing on their car, banging sounds on the car when stopping on the bridge, and even bloody scratches found on the skin of pedestrians crossing the bridge.

I didn’t get any scratches when walking over it, but I did get a creepy feeling! This is considered to be one of the most haunted places in VT.

32. Go biking on the Kingdom Trails

Mountain bikers will love the vast network of Kingdom Trails in East Burke, VT. These are some of the best mountain biking trails in the US, and they are set among the spectacular scenery of Vermont’s Northeast Kingdom. If you’re looking for places to go in VT to get away from it all, this might be what you’re looking for!

33. Visit the Vermont State House

 Go to Vermont’s capital city Montpelier and keep heading toward the golden-domed state house. Self-guided tours are available year-round so you can get a firsthand look at big activity in this small state! Fun fact: for many years, Montpelier had the distinction of being the only state capital in the United States without a McDonald’s!

34. Check out the Calvin Coolidge State Historic Site

 If you’re a presidential history buff and looking for where to visit in Vermont, check out the home of American president, Calvin Coolidge. In Plymouth, VT, visitors will find his childhood home, where he took his presidential oath of office. In addition to being an important historic site, the whole center comprises “over 600 bucolic acres” of a timeless Vermont village filled with original artifacts. This includes a one-room schoolhouse, barns, a cheese factory, and the hillside cemetery where President Coolidge is buried.  The Calvin Coolidge State Historic Site  is open this year beginning May 26th, 2023 through October 22, 2023.

35. Photograph the fall foliage

Who can resist those iconic Vermont fall colors?! Of course, VT boasts scenic splendor year round, but fall in Vermont fall is truly the most magical time, with its vibrant foliage framing colonial villages, white-steepled churches, and covered bridges. Grab your camera and make plans to visit Vermont in the fall. There’s a scenic shot waiting around every corner.

36. Dine at a farm-to-table restaurant

We take farm-to-table seriously in Vermont. There’s a strong culture of eating local and supporting farmers, and restaurants do this in all parts of the state. While there are countless farm-to-table options in Vermont, you must visit  Cloudland Farm  which is a culinary experience unto itself.

37. Find serenity in nature at Lake Willoughby

Venture into the Northeast Kingdom during your Vermont visit and you will find the majestic Lake Willoughby. Bordered by high, steep cliffs, the lake looks almost like a Nordic fjord. This is a perfect spot to get away from it all and really enjoy Vermont’s nature at its best.

38. Admire Quechee Gorge from above

Speaking of Vermont scenery, one of the most interesting natural sites in the state is Quechee Gorge. You might wonder, “ what’s so special about a gorge? ” But it really is worth stopping to see. Park in the visitor center lot and walk carefully out onto the sidewalk on the bridge overlooking the gorge. Unparalleled Vermont views are to be seen on both sides.

39. Visit the Morgan Horse Farm

Did you know that Vermont’s State Animal is the Morgan Horse? See where they’ve been bred and trained since 1878 (the oldest continuous breeding herd) at the  Morgan Horse Farm  in Middlebury. The Morgan Horse Farm is open each summer from May until October.

40. Bring your canine pal to Dog Mountain

One of the quirkier Vermont tourist attractions out there is  Dog Mountain . If you haven’t yet been to this canine mecca, add it to your Vermont itinerary. Dog Mountain is a private mountaintop spot in St. Johnsbury that belonged to artist Stephen Huneck. Today, it houses a gallery and a dog chapel, hosting several events throughout the year. Dogs are always welcome on the property to run free and enjoy the sights alongside their human companions; this is one of those fun tourist spots in Vermont where you can bring your furry friends, too!

41. Visit Vermont’s oldest general store

The Green Mountain State has many picturesque general stores that should be on your list of Vermont places to visit. While you have to visit the well-known Vermont Country Store, nothing compares to an old-fashioned, historic general store. Many of these claim to be the oldest in Vermont. I am partial to believe the oldest is  FH Gillingham and Sons  in Woodstock. No matter its age, it is incredibly charming—and they also have a great wine selection.

42. Eat as much Cabot cheese as you can stomach

Could there be a more quintessential Vermont option for Vermont things to do? Vermont once claimed that it had more cows than people living in the state, so it’s no surprise that we make excellent dairy products.

Cabot Cheese is one of the most famous, and with good reason. It’s fairly easy to find Cabot Cheese throughout the state, but you can sample loads of the stuff if you visit The  Cabot Farmers’ Store  in Waterbury. If you are looking for the tastiest things to do in VT, you can try dozens of flavors of Cabot cheese there. 

Read Next: Exploring the  Vermont Cheese Trail

43. Drink a maple latte

 This might not be on other lists of VT things to do, but it is certainly an essential item on mine! I’m a huge coffee drinker and there’s nothing quite so good as a hot, steaming latte. In Vermont, flavors like vanilla and hazelnut are passé. Instead, have your latte with a shot of pure Vermont maple syrup. I promise you it’s as wonderful as it sounds, and you can find this delicious beverage all over the state. As of 2023, the best maple latte I’ve had in Vermont was from  Brio Coffeeworks  in Burlington!

44. Ride the gondola to the top of Mount Mansfield

I’ve mentioned Stowe several times already in this guide, because I think it is the best place to vacation in Vermont. And while you’re in Stowe, you can’t miss riding to the peak of Mount Mansfield.

Mount Mansfield is the tallest mountain in Vermont. While it’s home to many exciting ski trails come winter, in the summer and fall, visitors can ascend to the top in the iconic red Gondola SkyRide. This is such an easy and fun way to get to the top of Mt. Mansfield, and you’ll be rewarded with fantastic views. I highly recommend riding the Stowe gondola in the fall for the most breathtaking foliage views!

45. Take a horse-drawn sleigh ride in the winter

Speaking of Stowe, it’s a great place to take a snowy Vermont sleigh ride. The Trapp Family Lodge in Stowe is an excellent and incredibly scenic spot for this bucket list winter activity.

46. Browse Northshire Bookstore

One of my favorite places to visit in Vermont is in Manchester. Northshire Bookstore is a massive, adorable independent bookstore that is an incredible place to get lost for a few hours. If you love books, it’s heaven. If you love cool Vermont souvenirs, it’s also amazing! One of the standouts of this shop is there incredible 2nd floor, devoted entirely to a Children’s Section. It’s absolutely worth visiting this spot when in Vermont and be sure to support them by buying local!

47. Have a massive, delicious breakfast

 This is a to-do that is not exclusive to Vermont, by any means. But I have never found a better breakfast than the ones I’ve had in Vermont. Truly, a homestyle, country, hearty breakfast with Vermont maple syrup, local blueberries, Cabot butter, and delicious coffee; there’s something so Vermont about this. Take time to dive into a good brunch during your Vermont visit. I’ve got local recommendations all over the site for some of my favorite cities. The Skinny Pancake, specializing in sweet and savory crepes, is one such Vermont breakfast spot. You can find a few locations all over the state!

48. Take a ride on the Green Mountain Railroad

That’s right, you can take a scenic train ride on the  Green Mountain Railroad ! If you’re looking for what to see and do in Vermont that will give you a little taste of the area, consider doing a 3-hour round trip Champlain Valley Dinner Train ride. Not only will you get to enjoy the gorgeous Vermont scenery, but the 3 course gourmet dinner isn’t so bad, either!

49. Check out the Vermont Country Store

I believe visiting the Vermont Country Store is a quintessential Vermont experience. This charming and nostalgia-filled store will transport you back in time with its collection of goods, from classic toys to artisanal cheeses. You definitely won’t leave empty handed.

50. Eat a maple creemee

My last item on the list is the incredible maple creemee. The Vermont creemee is Vermont’s version of soft-serve ice cream. The best flavor is—-you guessed it—-maple. You can find amazing creemees all over the state in the summertime. Here are the spots I’d definitely recommend checking out:

• Morse Farm – Montpelier
• April’s Maple – Canaan
• Palmer Lane – Jericho

FAQ About Vermont

What’s the best time of year to visit vermont.

The best time to visit Vermont is in the summer and fall. While Vermont is lovely throughout the year, most visitors find late May through October to be best for comfortable weather. To enjoy the best of fall leaves in New England, you’ll want to plan your Vermont trip for mid-September through early October.

For my personal recommendation, I find Vermont in May to be the best time to visit, as it is truly gorgeous. The green of summer is just starting to pop and the weather is growing warmer every day. It’s my little secret Vermont travel tip. Except now you know, too. Oops!

What is the prettiest town in Vermont?

There are so many beautiful destinations in Vermont, I would be hard-pressed to pick the most beautiful! But some of the prettiest towns in Vermont include Stowe, Woodstock, and Manchester.

What’s the best way to get to Vermont?

While you can certainly drive to Vermont from many locations in the US, most travelers opt to fly. The best place to fly into Vermont is the Burlington International Airport (BTV). This is the major airport in Vermont and is convenient to many of Vermont’s top destinations.

What is the best way to get around Vermont?

The best way to explore Vermont is by car, as it offers flexibility to visit various attractions, especially in rural areas. Public transportation options are very limited outside major towns.

What is the weather like in Vermont?

Vermont has a wet continental climate that features cold winters, warm summers and precipitation all year round. In plain language, that means Vermont gets hot in the summer (sometimes super hot) and very cold in the winter. There is a true 4-season climate in Vermont, although some say Mud Season is it’s own entity, but the winters do seem to last long. The weather and temperatures in April can be quite variable.

What should I pack for a trip to Vermont?

Packing in Vermont depends on the season. Warm clothes and snow gear are essential in winter, while summers call for lighter attire. Always bring comfortable shoes for outdoor activities. My advice is always to pack layers. The weather can change throughout the day, even in summer, and layers ensure you can easily adjust what you’re wearing.

What is Vermont known for?

Vermont is known for its maple syrup, cheese, pastoral landscapes, progressive culture, and its fall foliage, among many other things. Read more all about the things Vermont is known for .

More places to explore in Vermont:

• 9 Incredible Things to do in Chester VT
• 10 Exciting Things to do in Stratton Vermont
• 10 Best Things to do in Wilmington, Vermont
• 20 Fun Things to Do in Rutland VT

Need more for planning your Vermont vacation? Read these next!

• Guide to Seeing the 2024 Solar Eclipse in Burlington VT
• 8 Charming Airbnbs in Vermont for an Amazing Stay
• 11 Scrumptious Bakeries in Vermont for Sweet Lovers
• Top 5 Places to go Dog Sledding in Vermont
• 12 Amazing Antique Stores in Vermont
• 10 Best Pumpkin Patches in Vermont

20 Top-Rated Attractions & Places to Visit in Vermont

Written by Barbara Radcliffe Rogers Updated Jun 23, 2023

Vermont is equal parts myth and reality, home to a mystique that other states can only envy. A mere mention of its name, and images appear: sunlit meadows of black-and-white cows, dazzling white ski trails, tidy hillside farms, blazing red maple trees along a stone wall, covered bridges , buckets collecting sap for maple syrup.

Certainly these idyllic scenes still exist, although less picturesque plastic tubing has replaced most of the buckets, and many of the farms may now be chic B&Bs where you can stay while sightseeing.

Another Vermont exists alongside this idealized one, represented by bustling Burlington , the outlet malls of Manchester, Killington's frenetic après-ski scene, and Brattleboro's unlikely blend of gritty blue-collar and '70s hippies grown up.

Even the state's mainstay of agriculture has a new look, as dozens of artisanal cheese makers transform Vermont's dairy industry, and tourists eagerly follow the Vermont Cheese Trail to sample them.

Other trails lead to traditional tourist attractions: maple farms boiling sap and welcoming visitors each March, and covered bridges – seven of them in the far northern town of Montgomery alone. You'll enjoy both Vermonts.

I live 20 miles from Brattleboro, Vermont, where I do my shopping at the Farmer's Market and in the locally owned stores on Main Street. My travels frequently take me back and forth across the Connecticut River, which separates my western New Hampshire town from my favorite skiing and hiking trails in Vermont's Green Mountains. I consider both states to be our backyard.

Join me to discover the best things to see and do there, with this list of the top attractions and places to visit in Vermont.

Church Street Marketplace

Mount mansfield and smugglers notch, burlington bike path and waterfront park, vermont's year-round ski resorts, quechee gorge, bennington battle monument and museum, marsh-billings-rockefeller national historic park, lake champlain, billings farm & museum, visit a maple farm, brattleboro farmers' market, ben & jerry's, shelburne museum, fairbanks museum & planetarium, montshire museum of science, rock of ages quarry and hope cemetery, park-mccullough historic governor's mansion, green mountain national forest.

With a covered bridge, white-spired church, weathered barns, and ski trails down the mountainside, Stowe is everybody's image of Vermont. At the foot of Mt. Mansfield and in the heart of the state's snow belt, it's also the town that most personifies the glory days of Vermont's early ski industry, a heritage that's explored here in the Vermont Ski Museum .

Although avid skiers had climbed the mountain long before that, and a rope tow was installed in 1937, things really took off in 1940, when the first chairlift was opened. Stowe Mountain Resort is still one of New England's premier ski destinations, and the gondola that carries skiers in the winter takes sightseers to the summit for more views in the summer and fall.

It's not all about skiing and the mountain; you'll find shops and boutiques, art galleries, dining, and lodging of all sorts. Exhibits of works by Vermont-based artists are shown in the Helen Day Art Center and you can find quality Vermont- and New England-made jewelry, glass and fiber arts at Remarkable Things at Stowe Craft at the beginning of Mountain Road. When hunger strikes, I like to grab a hand-built sandwich at Back Cap Coffee & Bakery on Main St.

You can rent bicycles to ride, or you can walk or skate along the 5.3-mile Stowe Recreation Path , a paved multi-use route through meadows and woods alongside the river, with beautiful views of Mt. Mansfield. The best views of Mt. Mansfield's distinctive profile are from the upper part of the path, which you can access from Thompson Park, on Mountain Road.

You can find things to do here all year, and you'll quickly see why it's considered one of the best small towns in Vermont .

Author's Tip: If your canine friend accompanies you to Stowe, look for the 1.8-mile Quiet Path, a low-impact extension of the Recreation Path, where dogs can run free. You can reach it from Cemetery or Mayo Farm Rd.

In the heart of downtown Burlington , Church Street is only four blocks long, but it forms a wide, traffic-free space for public events and a lively street life even in Vermont's cold winters. Along with the festivals scheduled throughout the year, it's a place for sidewalk cafes, benches, and public artworks, and the buildings alongside it are filled with shops, restaurants, and boutiques. In the summer, when everyone is outdoors, it has the feel of an Italian piazza.

A mural, Everyone Loves a Parade! by Canadian muralist Pierre Hardy decorates a wall, and other artworks include a life-sized statue of a local jazz artist and a fish fountain crafted of metal. It's no wonder this has been named one of the Great Public Spaces in America; it's also listed as a National Register Historic District.

Opposite Church Street, The Flynn Center hosts top performers and musicians, in a state-of-the-art theater.

Author's Tip: For bargains that will astonish you, go downstairs at Outdoor Gear Exchange , part sale and clearance clothing and gear, and part consignment shop. My daughter bought a name-brand jacket there for less than ¼ its original price. So, if you find that your children have outgrown their ski boots or jacket, you could leave them there for sale instead of hauling them home from vacation.

Address: Church Street, Burlington, Vermont

Robert Todd Lincoln, son of the president, visited Manchester with his mother shortly before his father's assassination. After he had become president of Pullman Company, in the early 20th century, he returned to build the Georgian Revival Hildene as his country estate.

Hildene represents a fine example of homes built as retreats for the families of wealthy magnates and is furnished with several pieces from Mrs. Lincoln's family. Personal belongings of President Lincoln include his famous stovepipe hat.

Other highlights are the thousand-pipe 1908 Aeolian organ, in working condition, and the elegant dining room furnished in Queen Anne style. The home remained in the Lincoln family until 1975, thus preserving the original furnishings and memorabilia. The formal gardens on the terrace overlooking the broad valley have been restored from records of original plantings.

If you can, go to Hildene in late May or early June, when the formal garden is filled with more than a thousand bright peonies in full bloom. These blossoms, some the size of dinner plates, fill the air with their heady fragrance. Mesmerized by the peonies and by the view that reaches across the Battenkill Valley to the mountains beyond, I couldn't stop clicking photos.

You can stay in another of these elegant mansions built in Manchester by wealthy industrialists. The Inn at Ormsby Hill , near Hildene, is now an elegant bed-and-breakfast.

Address: 1005 Hildene Road, Manchester, Vermont

Mountain Road climbs out of Stowe and up the shoulder of Mount Mansfield, past Stowe Mountain Resort, where a gondola carries skiers and sightseers to the summit. Beyond the resort, the road narrows to snake through Smugglers' Notch, one of Vermont's most engaging natural attractions.

The road through this pass between Mount Mansfield and Spruce Peak is so tight and narrow as it winds upward that at some curves only a single car can pass through the openings between the giant boulders.

Snowplows can't get through it in the winter, when the road closes just past the ski area. The rest of the year, you can park the car and walk the paths among this massive jumble of glacial rock and discover the caves where 19th-century smugglers once hid.

The caves and gigantic boulders were formed when the glacier stalled here during the last ice age, smashing the mountain ledges and dropping them into the notch, where they were carved and tumbled by more glacial action.

Mansfield is Vermont's highest mountain, and at its top are sweeping views and more than two miles of ridge-top hiking above tree line . This is one of only two places in Vermont where rare arctic-alpine tundra exists. A number of routes reach its summit. The Long Trail crosses Route 108 at the foot of Smugglers' Notch, climbing steadily for 2.3 miles to the ridgeline.

Although the Long Trail traversing the ridgetop is one of the top hiking trails in Vermont , there are easier ways to get to the summit of Mt. Mansfield. Built for skiers, in summer and fall the Gondola SkyRide is a sightseeing attraction, revealing summit views to Lake Champlain, New York's Adirondacks and New Hampshire's White Mountains. The 10-minute ride on the gondola takes you close to the Long Trail, so you can hike the summit part for the best views.

Driving the Auto Toll Road takes about 20 minutes, and from its terminus you can also access trails to the summit ridge, or just enjoy the views from there. The Toll Road isn't scary – there are no vertigo-inducing drop-offs (or I wouldn't drive it) – and a lot better value than the gondola. The Toll Road costs less for a car and up to six passengers than a gondola ticket for one person.

Both the Gondola SkyRide and Auto Toll Road are open through foliage season in the fall.

Close to the point where the Long Trail crosses Route 108 at the base of Smugglers' Notch, Topnotch Resort is a luxurious base for exploring the area, with mountain views, three pools, a full-service spa, and a fine-dining restaurant.

A paved bicycle path borders eight miles of Burlington's Lake Champlain shoreline, extending from Oakledge Park north to the Winooski River. Alongside is a graded path for walkers and runners, with benches at points with the best views across the lake.

The path connects several parks that mark the shoreline, and a boardwalk forms a promenade along the central section. Here, you'll find the ECHO Leahy Center for Lake Champlain and Vermont's only All-America Display Garden , where flowering ornamental plants bloom through summer and fall.

Waterfront Park is the site of several festivals in the summer, and picnic tables along the route invite a lakeside lunch. In the spring, the path is lined by brilliant blooming azaleas and at any time of year, this is Vermont's best spot for watching the spectacular sunsets over Lake Champlain .

From the slopes of Mount Snow in the south to Jay Peak in the north, skiing extends the entire length of Vermont. Some of the top ski resorts in the east are here, and the state's nearly two dozen ski mountains offer downhill ski experiences for everyone, from young children and beginners to experts training for the Olympics. State-of-the-art snowmaking and grooming keeps slopes and trails in top condition from December through March.

Winter isn't the only time you can enjoy Vermont's ski resorts , however. The larger ones have on-mountain activities all year, offering mountain slides, rope courses, mountain biking, and scenic rides on the lifts that carry skiers to the summits in the winter. Resorts at the base have spas, swimming pools, Segway rides, golf, and activities for all ages.

Okemo Mountain Resort has the Timber Ripper Mountain Coaster; a spa; a mountain bike park; scenic chairlift rides; disc and miniature golf; and the Haulback Challenge Course, an aerial journey from tree to tree. Killington Ski Resort has the Beast Mountain Coaster, a ropes course, and an Adventure Center.

Stowe Mountain Resort whisks visitors to the top on the state's only gondola lift, or drivers can ascend to the summit of Mt. Mansfield on the Toll Road. Stratton Mountain has a mountain bike park and a 27-hole championship golf course.

In the winter, each resort has its own individual style and atmosphere that draws its loyal fans. For example, the two major mountains in central Vermont, Okemo and Killington, although close geographically, couldn't be farther apart in style or atmosphere.

Both offer top-quality skiing and boarding, but while Okemo has a family vacation vibe of a mountain ski village, after the lifts close Killington is all about the nightlife and apres-ski scene, with a road lined by evening venues as its nucleus. For me, the important thing is that they both have "bubble" chairlifts with domes to break the mountains' icy winds (as do Stowe and Mount Snow).

Vermont's deepest gorge was formed by glaciers about 13,000 years ago, and has continued to deepen by the constant action of the Ottauquechee River, which you will see flowing 165 feet below. The best place to view Quechee Gorge is from the walkway along the arched iron bridge that carries Route 4 across the top, about 7 miles from Woodstock .

A trail leads through the woods beside the rim to the bottom of the gorge, where you can see the lower part of it from water level. Close to the gorge, also on Route 4, is the excellent Vermont Institute of Natural Sciences (VINS) , a nature center where injured raptors are rehabilitated and returned to the wild.

Address: Route 4, Quechee, Vermont

The 306-foot-high obelisk, visible for miles around, commemorates the 1777 battle fought about five miles west of Bennington, which turned the tide against the British by splitting British General John Burgoyne's forces in half, making the final American victory possible. You can bypass the monument's 412 steps by taking an elevator to the top for views.

The nearby Bennington Museum is best known for its extensive collection of works by primitive folk artist Grandma Moses, along with her schoolhouse painting studio.

The museum is also especially strong in its collections of Bennington pottery, furniture, toys, American glassware, and Victorian quilts. You'll also find fine art and artifacts from the colonial and Civil War periods.

Between the monument and museum, you'll pass the lovely little settlement of Old Bennington with its 1762 Old First Church. In the cemetery behind it is the grave of Robert Frost , and fans of his poetry will want to stop, as I always do, to pay respects. His tombstone is marked with the epitaph he chose for himself: "I had a lover's quarrel with the world."

Address: Route 9, Bennington, Vermont

The only national park to concentrate on land stewardship in America incorporates both a working farm and a Victorian mansion on the hill above, set in formal gardens designed by several of America's foremost landscape architects.

The Queen-Anne-style mansion is decorated with the finest of Victorian artistry, including embossed wallpaper and stained-glass windows by Tiffany & Co. Also displayed in the house is the Rockefellers' collection of works by artists of the Hudson River School.

Both rail magnate Frederick Billings, and later, the Rockefellers were dedicated to land conservation and used this property to put it into practice. You can walk the trails on Mt. Tom, where park rangers can explain forestry practices and help identify trailside plants and trees.

Tours of the art-filled Rockefeller home and grounds include themes of gardening, forestry, and their relationship to conservation.

Note to parents: my kids loved getting their Junior Ranger book at the Carriage Barn Visitor Center and taking a self-guided trip through the Junior Ranger loop. They left proudly wearing their badges (crafted from wood grown in the park). In July and August kids can join special events.

Address: River Road, Woodstock, Vermont

Extending for 120 miles between Vermont and New York, with its northern tip in Canada, Lake Champlain lies mostly in Vermont, and draws visitors for its recreation, wildlife, and historical attractions. Its watershed covers more than 8,000 square miles.

Much of its 587 miles of shoreline are undeveloped; a haven for wildlife; and one of the best places to visit in Vermont for canoeists, kayakers, and sailors. On the Vermont side, 318 species of birds depend on Lake Champlain, and 81 species of fish swim in its waters.

According to Samuel de Champlain, for whom the lake is named, a 20-foot serpent-like creature also swims in the lake. His was the first, but certainly not the last reported sighting of what is now known as " Champy ." You might catch sight of it from one of the several lake cruises, or even from one of the three ferries that cross to the New York side from Charlotte, Burlington, and Grand Isle. ( I have not seen Champy myself, so I'm not making any promises.)

Several wildlife reserves protect its shore and neighboring wetlands, including the Dead Creek WMA , where thousands of migrating snow geese stop to rest in late October. You can learn more about the ecology at the ECHO Leahy Center for Lake Champlain , on the waterfront in Burlington.

The Lake Champlain Maritime Museum , overlooking Basin Harbor in Vergennes, explores the lake's role in the Revolution and War of 1812. You can also visit Mount Independence , an important sister fort to Fort Ticonderoga across the lake in New York, and attacked in July 1777. Learn more at the visitor center and explore the 400-acre site with the help of trail maps with historical notes and descriptions.

Although Champlain doesn't have the quiet intimacy of many lakes in Vermont , you'll find plenty of things to do along its shores and in its waters. Several state parks north of Burlington have sandy beaches. The longest is the 2000-foot beach at Sand Bar State Park , its gently sloping shore good for young children. You can rent boats here and on the beach at Grand Isle State Park.

Except in protected bays, these waters are not for beginning kayakers, but the bays and shoreline campsites of Knight Island State Park make a great adventure for those who can paddle more than 3 miles of open water.

Author's Note: Pay close attention to the weather forecast so you won't be caught, as I once was, in a sudden thunderstorm. Waves and wind can make a lake the size of Champlain seem like mid-ocean.

Spreading across the wide, flat landscape of the Ottauquechee River valley, the Billings Farm & Museum carries on the education mission of Frederick Billings, former owner of the farm and of the forests above that are now part of the national park. Billings created the farm to demonstrate the value of sound environmental practices in raising livestock.

The working farm continues to educate, as well as show what Vermont farming and rural life was like in the days before modern equipment did much of the work. You can tour the farm manager's house and dairy, visit livestock barns, watch cattle milking, make your own butter, and learn other old-fashioned rural skills in hands-on programs.

The small museum shows tools and equipment used in daily farm activities, such as ice-harvesting and maple sugaring, in eye-catching and informative exhibits.

Try to visit in August or early September when the Sunflower House is in full bloom. Each spring, 20,000 square feet of field is planted in more than 100 varieties of sunflower, some growing as tall as 14 feet. Arranged in a circular labyrinth pattern, the flowers are massed by variety, with colors varying from yellow to orange to red; some are as short as 18 inches and others had multiple rows of petals and centers so small they looked more like dahlias.

Address: 69 Old River Road, Woodstock, Vermont

The maple trees that bring a blaze of color to Vermont's autumn landscape also make Vermont the nation's top producer of maple syrup. The time to be here for the complete maple experience is late February through early April, when sugar houses are at full boil and you can sample the golden syrup as it's made.

That's the time for "sugaring off" parties and the chewy candy made by pouring syrup onto snow. Many farms take visitors into the grove – called a sugar bush – by horse-drawn sled or wagon, and some serve hot cider and fresh cider doughnuts.

Two of these farms you can visit at any time of year to learn about the process and sample syrup and other maple products. Morse Farm Maple Sugarworks in Montpelier is an 8th generation family-owned maple syrup farm, where you can sample maple products and see displays on tapping trees and making syrup. The gift shop has a selection of maple goodies and other Vermont-made products. As a bonus, there is an outdoor Vermont farm life museum, too.

At Sugarbush Farm in Woodstock, you can sample two classic Vermont products: maple syrup and cheese. Both are produced at the 3 rd -generation farm, and if there's cheesemaking in process in the dairy, you can watch. The shop also offers samples of jams, mustards, smoked meats, and other locally made delicacies.

Author's Tip: Driving to Sugarbush Farm, you'll feel as though you are heading deeper and deeper into nowhere, but have faith—a series of signs will point you the right way at every intersection. A word of advice, however: without four-wheel drive, don't go in March "mud season."

In a region known for its small farms and agriculture, Brattleboro Farmers' Market is the poster child of farmers markets. More than a place to buy fresh-picked vegetables and fruit from small independent local farmers, it is a social event, a meeting place, a Saturday lunch stop, and part of the weekend routine for southern Vermonters.

You'll find old favorite vegetables and all the trendy new varieties, along with flowers, artisanal breads, farm cheeses, handmade soap, local honey, maple syrup, pottery, jewelry, smart scarves, and French pastries. Plan to be there around lunchtime, when there will nearly always be live music and maybe Morris dancers on the shaded lawn.

Some vendors sell prepared foods to eat at picnic tables under the trees. You may find savory stews from Mali, Thai noodles, Lebanese dolmas, even Breton crepes. In the winter, the market moves indoors to a Main Street location.

A Saturday morning tradition for my family, the farmers' market isn't just about the fresh vegetables and fruit. I get tips for growing herbs and suggestions on how to cook foraged ramps and fiddlehead ferns. And I get fresh-squeezed lemonade and eat really great Thai food for lunch while listening to music and watching the kids play in the big sandbox. It gets the weekend started right.

Brattleboro itself is a cultural and social phenomenon, one of Vermont's few towns with an industrial past, but also one where back-to-the-landers settled in the 1960s and '70s and never left. The arts flourish here, and on any night of the week, you'll find a choice of gallery openings, performances, classes, community action meetings, concerts, public forums, and other activities.

Address: Route 9, West Brattleboro, Vermont

Unquestionably Vermont's most popular tourist attraction for children, Ben & Jerry's factory tour is a favorite experience for adults, too. On the 30-minute guided tour of the factory, you'll watch workers as they make and package ice cream, while a guide explains the process.

On days when the factory is not operating, you'll still see inside it, but a movie will show it in action. Of course, a sample of the day's flavor is included, and you can sample more flavors before choosing your favorite at their scoop shop.

The gift shop sells B&J goods, and you can take ice cream with you in insulated carriers. Be sure to visit the Flavor Graveyard to mourn the loss of their "dearly de-pinted" flavors and to smile at the past tongue-in-cheek names. In case you wondered, my favorite is rich, dark "Chocolatey Love A-fair" -- chocolate with salted caramel swirls, caramel chunks and sea salt fudge.

Address: Route 100, Waterbury, Vermont

Restored historic buildings and the collections they house at the open-air Shelburne Museum reflect Vermont's rich history and America's folk and fine art traditions. You can explore a round barn; the lake steamer SS Ticonderoga (now on dry land); a lake lighthouse; a barn filled with vintage carriages and wagons; a print shop; and collections of carved decoys, American quilts, handmade hatboxes, hooked rugs, and trains, in a bucolic village setting among manicured gardens.

In contrast to the simple farms represented at the museum, you can glimpse an entirely different kind of farming in New England at nearby Shelburne Farms . The grand turreted barns and farmyard of this 1400-acre working "gentleman farm" are still in operation, and you can sample their cheese, visit the gardens, and even have tea, depending on the tour you choose.

Address: 6000 Shelburne Road, Shelburne

Exuding all the charm and fascination of an old-time Victorian museum, without the mustiness, the museum endowed by the owner of Fairbanks Scales covers subjects from Vermont wildflowers to the mysteries of the universe.

The 1891 Fairbanks Museum building, listed on the National Register of Historic Places, exhibits many of the usual things you'd expect – mounted birds and animals, Native American stone tools, Civil War memorabilia – as well as many delightful surprises. Take, for example, the bizarre collection of Victorian portraits of Washington, Lincoln, and others formed entirely of bugs and beetles.

Vermonters love visiting the live broadcast studio for their favorite weather report, Eye on the Sky. Downstairs is a hands-on nature center with wasp hives, frogs, iguanas, and creepy things kids love. Planetarium programs examine the sky above St. Johnsbury and beyond.

Across the street is the St. Johnsbury Athenaeum , whose Art Gallery was added in 1873, making it the oldest art gallery in the United States still in its original form. The collection features American and European artists from the late 18th- to mid-19th century.

These and other outstanding examples of Victorian architecture on Main St. are described in a walking tour map of the street, available at the museum.

Address: 1302 Main Street, St. Johnsbury, Vermont

"Do touch," seems to be the motto of the Montshire , where each of its 125 exhibits begs for hands-on interaction. Kids can make soap bubbles grow bigger than they are, understand how movies are made by creating their own, experiment with light beams, navigate a labyrinth powered by air, watch a live boa constrictor, or see leafcutter ants at work demolishing foliage.

Even the building is designed for curious kids, with color-coded ventilation ducts and exposed construction supports. Nature trails explore the 110 acres of grounds alongside the Connecticut River.

Address: 1 Montshire Road, Norwich, Vermont

Granite quarries were founded at Barre after the War of 1812 and are still operating today. You can visit the Rock of Ages quarry, a staggering hole in the earth, and at 550 feet wide, a quarter mile long, and 450 feet deep, the world's largest quarry.

Barre granite's exceptionally fine grain makes it the preferred stone for finely detailed, durable outdoor sculpture, such as monuments and architectural detail. While there, along with touring the quarry and workshops, you can sand-blast your own granite souvenir, and go bowling on what is believed to be the world's only outdoor granite lane. (No, the bowling balls are not made of granite.)

Barre drew expert stone workers and carvers, many from Italy, and as you might expect, you can find their work in public sculptures and in Hope Cemetery . This is filled with elaborate carvings by early-20th-century stonecutters, highlighted by some remarkably lifelike sculptures and by symbols of employment or favorite pastimes: a soccer-ball, an oil truck, or an outdoor scene with a fishing rod.

Address: 558 Graniteville Road, Graniteville, Vermont

One of New England's finest examples of Victorian architecture and decoration, the Park-McCullough Historic Governor's Mansion is also one of the best preserved. The 35-room mansion represents the height of the Second Empire style popular in the 1860s, with finely detailed construction and artistic features.

The mansion remained in the same family for generations, so it is furnished with original pieces and decorative arts that show the opulence and tastes of the mid-Victorian era. Surrounded by manicured grounds and gardens, the mansion is open from spring through fall and hosts cultural events, including a classical music series, theater performances, and a summer croquet league.

Address: 1 Park Street, North Bennington, Vermont

Vermont's vast National Forest lies in two sections along the mountain chain that forms the state's spine–and makes east-west travel a challenge. Nearly every route across these mountains leads over a gap, a mountain pass that may be good for viewing the scenery, but not so good for winter travel. In fact, some of these roads close entirely during the winter.

Follow these the rest of the year to discover waterfalls, National Forest campgrounds, scenic places to picnic, trails to hike, and a world of nature. The Appalachian Trail crosses through the southern section of the National Forest, and the Long Trail follows the chain the entire length of the state from the Canadian to the Massachusetts borders.

Route 100 , often called "The Skiers' Highway," weaves back and forth among the mountains as it makes its way north, connecting many of Vermont's ski areas, from Mount Snow to Stowe and Jay Peak . Route 9 crosses the Green Mountains in the south; Route 73 traverses Brandon Gap; Route 125 climbs over Middlebury Gap (passing Texas Falls ); and Route 17 climbs Appalachian Gap, the highest that is open in the winter, at 2,356 feet.

I like camping at the well-maintained campgrounds located throughout the National Forest, especially those at Moosalamoo (near Middlebury), Silver Lake and Hapgood Pond. The latter, near Manchester, also has a day-use recreation area with swimming, canoeing, kayaking, and fishing. It is the only place in the Green Mountain National Forest where a day use pass is needed.

More Related Articles on PlanetWare.com

What to Do in Vermont: In addition to those described here, there are more attractions to see in Burlington , and you can explore outside the city on Vermont's outstanding hiking trails . Or you can enjoy winter sports at any of Vermont's top ski resorts .

Where to Go Next: Just a ferry ride across Lake Champlain are the Adirondack Mountains, one of the top attractions of New York state . This is a popular area for hiking, camping, and other outdoor pursuits. And across the Connecticut River to the east is New Hampshire , where you'll find mountains, lake and ocean beaches , and top-rated resorts.

More on Vermont

Winter is here! Check out the winter wonderlands at these 5 amazing winter destinations in Montana

• Travel Destinations

20 Hidden Gems In Vermont You Can’t Miss

Published: August 27, 2024

by Phyllida Hofmann

Looking for a unique adventure in Vermont? This charming state offers more than just picturesque landscapes and cozy cabins. From quaint small towns to stunning natural wonders, Vermont is brimming with hidden gems waiting to be explored. Whether you're a history buff, nature lover, or foodie, there's something for everyone. Imagine stumbling upon a secluded waterfall, tasting the best maple syrup, or wandering through a historic village. Ready to uncover the best-kept secrets of the Green Mountain State? Let's dive into 20 hidden gems in Vermont you can't miss. Get your map ready and prepare for an unforgettable journey!

Quaint Villages and Towns

Vermont's charm lies in its small towns and villages. Each one offers unique experiences and hidden gems waiting to be discovered.

Grafton : This picturesque village boasts historic buildings, covered bridges, and a cheese company that offers delicious samples.

Weston : Home to the Vermont Country Store, Weston offers a nostalgic shopping experience and beautiful scenery.

Woodstock : Known for its quaint downtown, covered bridges, and the Billings Farm & Museum, Woodstock is a must-visit.

Stowe : Famous for its ski resort , Stowe also has a charming village with shops, restaurants, and the scenic Stowe Recreation Path.

Natural Wonders

Vermont's natural beauty is unparalleled. From mountains to waterfalls, there's something for every nature lover.

Quechee Gorge : Often called "Vermont's Little Grand Canyon," this stunning gorge offers breathtaking views and hiking trails.

Moss Glen Falls : Located in Granville, this waterfall is a hidden gem perfect for a peaceful hike and a picnic .

Lake Willoughby : Surrounded by mountains, this glacial lake is ideal for swimming, kayaking, and hiking.

Mount Mansfield : As Vermont's highest peak, Mount Mansfield offers challenging hikes and panoramic views.

Unique Attractions

Vermont has some quirky and unique attractions that are worth a visit. These spots offer a different perspective on the state's culture and history.

Shelburne Museum : This eclectic museum features everything from folk art to a historic steamboat.

Ben & Jerry's Factory : Located in Waterbury, this factory tour includes a look at the ice cream-making process and, of course, samples.

Rock of Ages Granite Quarry : In Barre, visitors can tour one of the largest granite quarries in the world and even try their hand at stone carving.

Fairbanks Museum & Planetarium : This St. Johnsbury museum offers natural history exhibits and a planetarium for stargazing enthusiasts.

Outdoor Adventures

For those who love outdoor activities, Vermont offers plenty of opportunities for adventure. From hiking to skiing, there's something for everyone.

Smugglers' Notch : This narrow pass offers hiking trails, rock climbing, and stunning views.

Green Mountain National Forest : Spanning over 400,000 acres, this forest offers hiking, camping, and wildlife watching.

Mad River Glen : Known for its challenging ski slopes, Mad River Glen is a favorite among expert skiers.

Kingdom Trails : Located in East Burke, these trails are perfect for mountain biking and offer beautiful scenery.

Cultural Experiences

Vermont's rich culture and history can be experienced through its museums, festivals, and historic sites.

Hildene : The Lincoln Family Home in Manchester offers tours of the historic estate and beautiful gardens.

Vermont Folklife Center : Located in Middlebury, this center preserves and shares Vermont's cultural heritage through exhibits and programs.

Bread and Puppet Theater : This unique theater in Glover offers performances and a museum dedicated to its puppetry art.

Chester : Known for its historic Stone Village, Chester offers a glimpse into Vermont's architectural history and charming shops.

Discover Vermont's Hidden Treasures

Vermont offers countless hidden gems waiting to be explored. From the charming town of Woodstock to the breathtaking Quechee Gorge , each spot provides a unique experience. Lake Willoughby 's crystal-clear waters and Shelburne Museum 's rich history are just a few highlights. Don't miss the Bennington Battle Monument or the Stowe Recreation Path for a mix of history and outdoor fun.

Moss Glen Falls and Smugglers' Notch offer stunning natural beauty, while Grafton Village and Chester's Stone Village showcase quaint New England charm. Montshire Museum of Science and Hildene, The Lincoln Family Home provide educational experiences.

Whether you're into hiking, history, or simply relaxing, Vermont has something for everyone. Plan your trip and uncover these hidden treasures. Vermont's beauty and charm will leave you wanting more.

• Privacy Overview
• Strictly Necessary Cookies

This website uses cookies so that we can provide you with the best user experience possible. Cookie information is stored in your browser and performs functions such as recognising you when you return to our website and helping our team to understand which sections of the website you find most interesting and useful.

Strictly Necessary Cookie should be enabled at all times so that we can save your preferences for cookie settings.

If you disable this cookie, we will not be able to save your preferences. This means that every time you visit this website you will need to enable or disable cookies again.

Vermont in the Fall: Essential Places to Visit While Leaf Peeping

By Author Tara Schatz

Posted on Published: May 6, 2024

The Green Mountain State shines in just about every season, but Vermont in the fall is special.

Autumn is when people travel from near and far to get a glimpse of the thrilling carpet of colors that blanket the mountains, forests, and fields starting in late September.

I’ve lived in Vermont for most of my life, and every fall is still a magical experience for me.

Those beautiful fall colors in Vermont sustain me through a winter that is always long and cold and often bleak and grey.

Every year in the fall, I make it my mission to drop everything and explore this beautiful state I call home.

I’d love to share some of the best places to visit in Vermont in the fall before winter opens up a whole new set of opportunities.

I’m based in Southern Vermont , which is a road-trippers paradise, but the whole state deserves some serious exploration.

This guide explores quintessential Vermont fall foliage destinations that visitors won’t want to miss, as well as some unique and beautiful spots that fly under the radar.

First, I’d like to answer a few questions about Vermont fall foliage that I receive in multitudes via email or Facebook starting as early as June. 

Psst… Did you know that we run a Facebook group dedicated to all the best things to do in Vermont? It’s particularly active in the fall, as that’s the busiest season in Vermont for tourists. Join the group to ask questions, share photos, and immerse yourself in all things Vermont.

Table of Contents

When is Peak Foliage in Vermont?

October 11, at 10:59 am. I wish I could be that specific in my answer!

If you are planning your Vermont fall foliage vacation in the summer, you want to know when to book your flight or hotel room so that you don’t miss the prime leaf-peeping season.

In my opinion, it’s better to be a bit early for the fall foliage season in Vermont because you can always go up in elevation to experience more vibrant colors. If you are visiting the Green Mountains, which run north to south through the middle of Vermont, I suggest visiting in early October, especially if you are traveling to the Northeast Kingdom or Stowe.

If you are visiting Southern Vermont, the Lake Champlain Valley, or the Connecticut River Valley for Vermont fall foliage, I would suggest coming during the second week of October.

Unfortunately, Mother Nature doesn’t follow a strict calendar, and Vermont fall foliage colors vary depending on temperatures and rainfall.

Based on averages from year to year, the second weekend in October is the sweet spot and the best time to visit Vermont in the fall, but the trend has also skewed toward late colors over the past few years.

100+ Wonderful Ways to Experience Vermont

Whether you’re a local who has lived here for years or a visitor eager to explore, there’s always more to Vermont than most guidebooks would have you believe. Sure, you can easily find the popular tourist spots, but Vermont is so much more than that.

100+ Ways to Experience Vermont is the only guide you’ll need to find popular and obscure trails, waterfalls, attractions, museums, farms, breweries, and more. And unlike printed guidebooks, this digital guide included links to relevant businesses, articles, and event listings to make trip planning easier.

Formatted as a PDF file, this beautiful ebook is available to download on your phone, tablet, or e-reader and can be easily printed for off-grid exploring.

Where are the Best Places to See Vermont Fall Foliage?

Another question that I am asked over and over again is where the best places are to experience Vermont Fall Foliage. Three-quarters of Vermont is covered by forests – vibrant maples, stately oaks, and colorful ash, birch, and larch.

There are so many beautiful back roads in Vermont, and I guess my first suggestion would be to ditch the GPS and pick up a Delorme Gazetteer for Vermont and New Hampshire. If you do want to rely on your GPS, be sure to download Google or Apple Maps over Wi-Fi before you head out adventuring.

My favorite way to experience fall in Vermont is to get lost on the elaborate network of back roads that snake through the mountains.

Some of my favorite back roads to explore are in the Cambridge/Jeffersonville/Johnson area, the Northeast Kingdom, and Bennington County.

Of course, there’s more to Vermont in the fall than colorful leaves. Do you want to hike beautiful Vermont trails ? Visit tourist attractions? Enjoy fall festivals ?

The best places to visit in Vermont in the fall depend a lot on what you enjoy doing.

No matter where you go in Vermont, you’ll enjoy small-town hospitality, local treats, and quirky attractions. You can drive from one end of Vermont to the other in under four hours, so if you choose a home base in the north and in the south, you should be able to cover a lot of ground!

Read Next: A 5-Day Fall Foliage Road Trip on Scenic Route 100 in Vermont

Before we dig into the best places to visit in Vermont in the fall, a disclaimer: Vermont is a popular fall destination. Many of the spots I suggest are not hidden gems, and because they are quite crowded during the fall, they may not be what you’re looking for.

I will also suggest a few places off the beaten path for those of you who are craving a bit more solitude.

Pros and Cons of Visiting Vermont’s Popular Tourist Towns

Two of Vermont’s most popular tourist towns, Stowe and Woodstock, are gorgeous in the fall, and I would be remiss not to include them here.

The benefit of visiting either of these towns in the fall is that there are lots of beautiful spots to explore —hiking trails, historic sites, attractions, and vistas. Plus, you’ll find plenty of restaurants and lodging that can handle the influx of fall visitors.

The downside, of course, is that Stowe and Woodstock (and several other towns) become very crowded in the fall. There will be traffic, long wait times at restaurants, and parking issues at trailheads. You will likely share popular viewpoints with dozens of leaf peepers, and you will have to book lodging and make restaurant reservations well in advance.

There are many small towns in Vermont where you can have a wonderful fall experience—you will just be more limited in your dining, shopping, and lodging options.

The Best Places to Visit in Vermont in the Fall

The fall foliage season is the most popular time to visit Vermont. It’s a mixed blessing for travelers. On the one hand, Vermont in the fall is incredibly beautiful, and every town and village wants you to visit.

There are festivals, sidewalk sales, and special events all over the state to celebrate autumn in Vermont and to celebrate you, the traveler who is coming to spend money at local Vermont businesses.

Yes, visiting Vermont in the fall means more traffic on back roads, not to mention a harder time booking rooms and making dinner reservations.

Is it worth it? Absolutely!

I urge you to immerse yourself in Vermont’s most colorful season and try the following excursions – the best places to go and the best things to do in Vermont in the fall.

Discover Fall in Stowe, Vermont

Stowe is a small mountain town that attracts visitors year-round, and there are incredible things to do here in all four seasons.

Winter might be the busiest time in Stowe, thanks to the renowned skiing at Stowe Mountain Resort, but fall is equally appealing.

If you are visiting Vermont for a fall vacation and don’t have much time to spend, my suggestion is to make Stowe or nearby Waterbury your home base for the weekend. Stowe has enough things to do to keep you busy for a long weekend, and you’ll be treated to expansive green mountain views, fantastic food, and friendly people.

While you’re in the area, be sure to check out the mountain towns and villages that make this part of Vermont so special. Drive the back roads, and don’t be afraid to get a little lost.

Here are our favorite Vermont fall attractions near Stowe.

Hike or Drive up Mount Mansfield, Vermont’s Tallest Peak

Mount Mansfield gets its name because, when viewed from the east, it resembles the profile of a giant, sleeping face.

Reaching 4,394 feet at the chin, this is one of only two places in Vermont where you’ll find an arctic-alpine tundra ecosystem, complete with a plethora of tiny, rare plants that can only be found in such high, windswept climates as this — unless, of course, you want to travel to the far reaches of our continent’s northern borders.

More than 40,000 visitors flock to the top of Mount Mansfield each year, and that’s because you can drive to the top on the auto toll road from Stowe Mountain Resort. This is one of seven Vermont mountains that you can drive to the top of , and yes, the views are worth the admission price.

For a longer and more organic adventure, head to Underhill State Park and hike the Sunset Ridge Trail (5.1 miles round-trip) to the top of Mount Mansfield. This is a strenuous hike, but again, the views make it worth every drop of sweat.

Mount Mansfield is a true gem and one of the most beautiful places to hike during the Vermont fall foliage season.

Looking for an easier hike? Here are some easy and moderate hikes in Stowe with gorgeous views!

Take a Mini Fall Foliage Road Trip through Smuggler’s Notch and Beyond

Not only is Route 108 through Smuggler’s Notch one of the most beautiful roads in the state, but it’s also has a pretty interesting history. 

In the early 1800s, the United States Government embargoed imports from England. The British started shipping goods to Canada, and smugglers bringing contraband into the states stored the booty in the caves around the area that is now Smuggler’s Notch Pass.

The heavily wooded paths in the Notch made the perfect route for smuggling these goods during the War of 1812.

Fast forward to prohibition, and Smuggler’s Notch was again used by smugglers who brought alcohol down from Canada to sell throughout New England. The most well-used path was eventually replaced with a seasonal road.

As long as you aren’t driving a large RV, tour bus, or semi, you can drive up through the Notch. There are places to pull off and explore, plus a few trailheads.

The hike to Bingham Falls starts just across the road from Smuggler’s Notch State Park, and the trailhead to Sterling Pond is right in the Notch. Both hikes are amazing and not too difficult.

For a quick fall foliage road trip that can be completed in about an hour (without stops), take Route 108 north out of Stowe, drive through Smuggler’s Notch, turn right onto Route 15 in Jeffersonville, drive through Johnson, turn right onto Route 100 in Morrisville, and head back into the village of Stowe.

Be sure to stop in all of these adorable villages for shopping, dining, and the friendliest Vermonters!

Smuggler’s Notch is a must-visit attraction in all four seasons, but it’s especially lovely in the fall.

Also Read: Hike to Sterling Pond Perched High Above Smuggler’s Notch

Explore Stowe Village

While you’re in Stowe, be sure to meander around town—it won’t take long. Quaint shops, breweries, and restaurants line the streets, all with a gorgeous mountain backdrop. Stowe is one of the most popular and beautiful towns in Vermont.

In Stowe, visit the Vermont Ski and Snowboard Museum, walk on the Stowe Recreation Path, and hike up to Sunset Rock for — you guessed it — the sunset. Pop into Black Cap Coffee for lunch or an afternoon espresso, and treat yourself to dinner at Idletyme Brewing (great outdoor seating and fantastic onion rings).

Visit Waterbury, Vermont

Waterbury is even smaller than the town of Stowe, but there are a few awesome spots that you have to visit before leaving the area. It’s located just south of Stowe Village on Route 100.

For beautiful mountain and lake views, visit Waterbury Center State Park . You can hike along Waterbury Reservoir on a short nature trail — 1/2 mile and very easy.

Next, stop at the world-famous Ben & Jerry’s Factory for a tour. Sample some divine ice cream, and be sure to visit the Flavor Graveyard, where you can pay homage to your long-lost ice cream loves. Note that Ben & Jerry’s gets VERY crowded in the fall.

Not far from Ben & Jerry’s is another iconic spot. Cold Hollow Cider Mill is known for having some of the best cider donuts in the state, not to mention hard and soft cider, and an amazing gift shop.

Where to Stay in Stowe or Waterbury in the Fall

• Tälta Lodge Bluebird: Our new favorite place to stay in Stowe, this beautiful lodge is located on the Mountain Road with the river flowing behind the property. You can easily access the Stowe Recreation Path and Smuggler’s Notch is just up the road. Rooms come with an outdoor seating area, and there is an indoor pool and sauna. The Stuga Cottages at Tälta Lodge feature private patios, 425 square feet of living space, and a kitchenette.
• The Trapp Family Lodge : The Trapp Family, fictionalized in The Sound of Music , fled Austria during World War II and landed in this beautiful Vermont town. The lodge that you can visit today isn’t the original Trapp Family Lodge, but it’s still a beautiful and historic landmark with hiking and mountain biking trails and lovely accommodations. It’s a perfect jumping-off point for your Vermont vacation.
• Grey Fox Inn : This lovely inn is located within walking distance of shopping and restaurants in Stowe Village. Amenities include indoor and outdoor pools, a hot tub, and a sauna. You can access the Stowe Recreation Path from the property, and the views aren’t bad either. Book a room, suite, or condo for your fall foliage vacation.

Explore Woodstock, Vermont in the Fall

Woodstock is a quintessential New England Village on the eastern slope of the Green Mountains. This is a busy tourist area, but if you don’t mind leaf-peeping among friendly strangers, you’ll be in good company!

In Woodstock, you can explore five covered bridges, discover Vermont’s only national park, and visit a general store that’s been operating since 1886. This gem of a town makes a great home base while you explore all the best things to do in Vermont in the fall.

Here’s a local’s guide to the best things to do in Woodstock, Vermont in the fall , as well as the neighboring village of Quechee.

Our guide includes our favorite tourist attractions, places to stay, and of course, our favorite hiking trails — because we obviously can’t talk about things to do in fall without mentioning our favorite autumn activity. 

Where to Stay in Woodstock, Vermont

Here are our top picks for places to stay in Woodstock and Quechee.

Woodstock Inn & Resort :  This posh resort is located in Woodstock Village, within walking distance of everything downtown. It’s the perfect spot for a special weekend or fall getaway.

506 On the River Inn:   Featuring rooms with panoramic river and garden views, 506 On the River Inn features an indoor pool and sauna, gym and kids’ game rooms, and a restaurant.

Log Cabin Apartment in Woodstock:  Walk to everything from this beautiful apartment with room for four guests. This special spot is located in a wooded setting but is just a 1/4-mile to downtown. There’s a full kitchen if you don’t want to dine out in Woodstock.

Historic Cottage on a Vineyard:   A beautiful 900-square-foot cottage on Gilbert’s Hill with access to hiking trails. The space includes two bedrooms, one bathroom, a full kitchen, and a private deck overlooking the vineyard.

Visit Bennington and Manchester, Vermont in the Fall

Of course, I am biased — Bennington has been my hometown for the past 18 years, and I believe it’s one of the best places to visit in Vermont in the fall.

Bennington is a small community with a historic downtown area, beautiful scenery, and lots of opportunities for recreation.

Here are a few things you shouldn’t miss while visiting Bennington, Vermont in the fall.

Explore the Covered Bridges of Bennington County

Vermont boasts more than 100 covered bridges, the highest number per square mile in the United States. Bennington County, in the southwest corner of Vermont, is home to five, all relatively close to each other.

You’ll find three covered bridges in Bennington/North Bennington and two more in Arlington. They all feature authentic construction, but some have been rebuilt over the years. The Arlington bridges are both perched above fabulous swimming holes if you happen to be meandering on a hot summer day. 

Even if covered bridges aren’t your thing, I urge you to visit this corner of Vermont   in the fall , where you’ll find rolling hills, bustling farm stands, art galleries, museums, and shopping opportunities.

The Appalachian and Long Trails share a single path through these mountains, and both Robert Frost and Norman Rockwell once called Bennington County home. You can even visit Robert Frost’s grave behind the Old First Church in Old Bennington.

Read More: the Covered Bridges of Bennington County

Vermont Fall Foliage Sites in Bennington County

• Woodford State Park . It’s true — we’re attracted to out-of-the-way corners, and this is one of our favorite spots for quiet hiking, kayaking, and swimming. Woodford State Park is tucked away in the mountains and sees very few visitors. A quiet lake surrounded by lush forest is the main attraction, but you’ll also find hiking trails and a quiet campground within the park. On really quiet evenings, we’ve seen moose and otters, and we hear the fishing is pretty good, too.
• Bennington Battle Monument. This is Vermont’s most popular historic site , but we’ve never encountered a full parking lot. Finished in 1891 to commemorate the Battle of Bennington (August 16, 1777), the monument towers 306 feet over the town and is the tallest building in the state. Take a quick elevator ride to the top and enjoy the panoramic views of the town, valleys, and mountains that make this place so special. Don’t forget your camera.
• Lye Brook Falls , Manchester : An easy 2.3-mile hike on a beautiful, forested trail will take you to a lovely waterfall in the Green Mountains. The trail is dog and kid-friendly, and the woods are especially spectacular during fall foliage.
• Mount Equinox Skyline Drive : Drive to the top of Mount Equinox on a 5.2-mile toll road ascending 3,248 feet, where you can enjoy beautiful views of Manchester and the surrounding Green Mountains.
• BATS: The Bennington Area Trail System is a network of trails on the side of Mt. Anthony in Bennington, and you won’t find better views anywhere. Trails range from a walk in the park to steep climbs up the mountain.
• Hildene in Manchester : The former summer home of Robert Todd Lincoln, Hildene is a Georgian Revival mansion built in 1905. You can tour the home and grounds, visit the Dene Farm, or hike the woodland trails.

Also read: The Best Easy Hikes in Southern Vermont

Where to Stay in Bennington County, Vermont for Fall Foliage

Bennington County has two shires, Manchester in the north and Bennington in the south. It’s about a half-hour drive between the two, so you don’t necessarily want to be hopping between them constantly during your visit. There are lots of lodging choices in both towns.

In Bennington, The Four Chimneys Inn is an iconic New England Inn that will perfectly complement your Vermont fall vacation. Each room is beautifully decorated, breakfast is beyond incredible, and you can walk to all the historic attractions in Old Bennington. 

If you want to hang your hat in Manchester, check out the sprawling Kimpton Taconic Hotel, which is dog-friendly and within walking distance of shopping, dining, and hiking trails in Manchester Village.

Explore Vermont’s Northeast Kingdom in the Fall

The Northeast Kingdom is the wildest and most remote part of Vermont. Its uninterrupted tracts of forest make it the perfect habitat for moose, Canada lynx, snowshoe hare, the endangered spruce grouse, and hundreds of songbird species.

Here, the eastern hardwood forest begins transitioning to the boreal forest, which is primarily made up of cold-hardy evergreens. Wild streams cut through the forests, and clear mountain lakes and boggy wetlands dot the landscape. 

If you truly want to get off the beaten path in Vermont this fall, this is the place to be. Sure, there are popular spots with gorgeous views, but much of the landscape is remote, with trails for hiking, lakes for paddling, and a few quirky attractions that will entice you to dig a little deeper into this beautiful corner of Vermont.

Here are a few spectacular things to do in the Northeast Kingdom in the fall:

• Lake Willoughby : Lake Willoughby was carved by glaciers thousands of years ago. Two steep mountains, Mount Hor and Mount Pisgah, rise up on either side of it, giving Lake Willoughby the appearance of a Norwegian fjord. This is a popular spot to visit in the fall, and there are two hiking trails leading to vistas on Mount Hor and Pisgah.
• Bald Mountain Fire Tower Hike : Hike four miles round-trip to the top of Bald Mountain, where you will be treated to gorgeous Northeast Kingdom views.
• Hill Farmstead Brewery: Our favorite Vermont brewery is located in Greensboro Bend, VT. It offers fantastic beers, outdoor seating, and mountain views.
• The Museum of Everyday Life : Treat yourself to a meander around this quirky museum in Glover, Vermont. You never know what you’ll find; just be sure to turn off the light when you’re done.
• Bread & Puppet Museum : Vermont’s original politically active puppet theatre still hosts numerous shows in Glover each summer. In the fall, you can visit the Bread and Puppet Museum, which features a massive accumulation of puppets, masks, paintings, and graphics housed in a 150-year-old barn.

Where to Stay in the Northeast Kingdom

Highland Lodge : This beautiful inn on Caspian Lakes features a collection of guest rooms and private cabins. It is the perfect home base for exploring all of the gorgeous spots in Vermont’s Northeast Kingdom. The restaurant and bar are on-site, and there are lots of cool special events throughout the season.

Cabin for two in Barton, Vermont : This cozy cottage in Barton is perfect for two people and a dog, with a queen-size bed and a spacious yard with mountain views. This is also an affordable choice for fall travelers.

Get off the Beaten Path in Ludlow, Vermont

Ludlow is one of our favorite little towns in Vermont. Home to Okemo Mountain, a few lovely shops and restaurants, and lots of great hiking trails. Make Ludlow your home base to explore the nearby towns of Weston, Peru, Londonderry, Plymouth Notch, and Killington.

Here are some of our favorite things to from a home base in Ludlow, VT:

• Hike the Healdville Trail to Okemo Mountain : This is a six-mile hike (round trip) and gains about 2,000 feet of elevation, but the 360-degree views from the top of the fire tower make it well worth the effort. You can also drive almost to the top from Okemo Mountain Resort, making the hike less than a quarter-mile.
• Visit Buttermilk Falls : Buttermilk Falls is a series of three small waterfalls along the Branch Brook in Okemo State Forest. The falls are practically roadside but hidden from view down an easy, 0.2-mile trail. This is one of Vermont’s loveliest waterfalls !
• Visit President Calvin Coolidge State Historic Site : Located in Plymouth Notch, just a short drive from Ludlow, this is one of the most underappreciated sites in Vermont and a must-visit in the fall. Guided tours are offered daily, and you can see where Calvin Coolidge was born, as well as where he was sworn into office on August 3, 1923, after the death of President Warren G. Harding the previous evening.
• Toast to fall at Long Trail Brewing : This quaint riverside pub and restaurant is the perfect lunch spot, and the view is pretty great, too! In addition to their popular Long Trail Ale, they make a variety of delicious seasonal craft beers that you won’t find in local stores.
• Ride the Scenic Gondola to the Top of Killington Peak : At 4,241 feet, Killington is one of the highest peaks in Vermont. The gondola ride is a quarter mile long, with 360-degree views, a small snack bar, and restrooms at the top. In the fall, the Killington gondola is open every day from 10 am to 5 pm. Round-trip tickets are $30 for adults and $24 for kids.

Read More: A Spectacular Fall Foliage Weekend in Ludlow VT

Where to Stay in Ludlow, Vermont for Fall Foliage

If you’re traveling alone or with a small family, I highly recommend Main and Mountain as your home base. This small hotel is beautifully decorated, and you can choose from different room configurations depending on your needs.

Main and Mountain   has a great little bar onsite, and it’s within walking distance of downtown shopping and restaurants. We paid under $200 a night for a room during the fall foliage season, which is pretty hard to beat.

If you’re looking for more room to spread out, this beautiful  Ludlow village home  is dog-friendly, and it sleeps up to eight people in three bedrooms. It’s also got a great yard and a fire pit for relaxing after a long day of leaf-peeping.

Visit the Lake Champlain Islands in the Fall

Fall is a fabulous time to visit the Lake Champlain Islands!

The population of these northern Vermont islands doubles in the summertime, thanks in part to vacationing New Englanders and a smaller number of tourists from farther afield, who come for the boating and fishing, the beachy atmosphere, and the quiet way of life. 

About the time the kids go back to school, most of the vacationers to the Islands sigh a wistful sigh and return to their lives away from the alluring pull of Lake Champlain. Fall is the season that dreams are made of, provided you aren’t looking for nightlife that involves more than gazing at the stars.

Here are some things you won’t want to miss while visiting Vermont’s Lake Champlain Islands in the fall:

• Alburgh Dunes State Park , Alburgh : This 625-acre day-use park includes one of the largest sandy beaches on Lake Champlain, as well as unique sand dunes that are more common along ocean shorelines. The park is officially open from Memorial Day to Labor Day, but you can still visit in the off-season.
• St. Anne’s Shrine, Isle La Motte: St. Anne’s Shrine is a peaceful, spiritual, and historical attraction that has been developed and maintained for the past 100 years by the Society of Saint Edmund in Vermont’s scenic Champlain Islands. You don’t have to be Catholic to enjoy this special place. 
• Chazy Fossil Reef, Isle La Motte : Lake Champlain was once part of a tropical sea, and the fossilized plants and animals at the Chazy Reef are approximately 480 million years old. The Chazy Reef is just part of a 1,000-mile ridge from the ancient Iapetus Ocean that extends from Newfoundland to Tennessee.
• Snow Farm Vineyard in South Hero : This is the oldest commercial winery in Vermont and the perfect spot to enjoy a tasting with gorgeous views. Be sure to hike to the top of Fox Hill, the highest point on the Islands.

Read More: Spend 3 Magical Days in the Lake Champlain Islands

Lake Champlain Islands Vacation Rentals

Vacation rentals are also great if you’re traveling with a family or a group because there’s usually more room to spread out. The following vacation rentals are available on VRBO:

3-bedroom lakefront home on Isle La Motte  – This year-round home is perfect for up to six people, with no cleaning fee. It includes four kayaks and 100 feet of private lakeshore facing west for fabulous sunsets!

Dog-friendly house on the lake in Alburgh  – This home is less than a mile from Alburgh Dunes State Park, and it features a fireplace, a large deck, and a beach. It’s perfect for up to four people. 

Romantic cottage for two right on the lake in South Hero  – Looking for a special place right on the lake for a couple’s weekend? This beautiful little cottage is on the tip of Kibble Point surrounded by 200 acres of meadows and 320 feet of private lakeshore.

Follow us on social media for lots more Vermont!

Pin for Later?

Tara Schatz is a freelance writer and the founder and editor-in-chief of Vermont Explored and Back Road Ramblers , an American road trip blog. She is also the co-author of the 3rd edition of AMC’s Best Day Hikes in Vermont, released in May 2023, and the author of 100+ Wonderful Ways to Experience Vermont.

Saturday 24th of September 2022

I’m from Hawaii. How can I enjoy in Vermont? Any info will help.

Thursday 11th of August 2022

Which town would you recommend to use as a "base camp" for the last two weeks of Oct. We'll be driving the scenic routes during the day, then park the car and walk to restaurants or pubs in the night.

Tara Schatz

Friday 12th of August 2022

I think you will have the best colors in southern Vermont during the last two weeks of October, so I would look into Bennington, Manchester, or Brattleboro to use as your base camp. All of those will have restaurants and pubs that you can walk to from your lodging.

Sharlene Ansley

Friday 22nd of July 2022

We may be possibly flying in on September 10 leaving 14 th would their be any good fall colors or is that way to early. I really want to make sure we get the most beautiful views because we will probably only get to make the trip once so would that be an okay time or would it be better to plan on a different time

Hi Sharlene - Honestly, I would reschedule for early to mid-October. The foliage will still be pretty green in mid-September, with colors starting to turn in the far north. By early October, the higher elevations and far north will be lovely, and the rest of the state will follow by mid-October. Hope that helps.

Thursday 21st of July 2022

I want to move to Vermont ., buy a large piece of property and build a new traditional home. Do you have contact with a realtor who could contact me. I have been going through different sales, but I like speaking with someone directly. Everything you have been showing and talking about makes me want to buy the whole state of Vermont.

My phone number is 714 536 2743. I live in Huntington Beach, CA. I was originally from Milwaukee, Wisconsin and I have lived here for a very long time always remembering the season changes.

Thanh you in advance for any help you can give me.

Corinne Welch

Thursday 23rd of June 2022

When do the restaurants & shops close for the winter? Also, is Vermont experiencing a labor shortage? Thanks!

Sunday 26th of June 2022

It totally depends on the shops and restaurants. Places that are truly seasonal may close after the second week in October, but lots of places are open year-round as Vermont gets a lot of winter tourists. Yes, we are experiencing a labor shortage and it is affecting the travel/tourism industry.

• How to Tie a Tie
• Best Coffee Beans
• How to Shape a Beard
• Best Sweaters for Men
• Most Expensive Cognac
• Monos vs Away Luggage
• Best Luxury Hotel Chains
• Fastest Cars in the World
• Ernest Hemingway Books
• What Does CBD Feel Like?
• Canada Goose Alternatives
• Fastest Motorcycles in the World

Vermont in the fall: How to plan an epic trip, according to a local

Here's where i'd go on a fall trip to vermont.

In March 2021, I took a road trip that changed my life. I drove from my then-home in Northern Virginia to Northern Vermont for a long weekend of snowboarding and exploration, not knowing how the state would delight me. It did, and then some. 

The landscape changed as soon as I crossed the state line from New York to Vermont. Old towns looked untouched, as if frozen in time, with old gas stations and shops lining the byways. In the distance, the Green Mountains formed the horizon, creating a perfect vista as the sun set. Add in world-class snowboarding at Stowe Mountain Resort , and I knew I wanted to live there. In October 2021, I made the move. Today, I call Stowe home.

Fall is a special time here, when the temperature’s just right, and the foliage creates an autumn panorama. Here’s where I recommend going during your Vermont fall trip. 

Fall in Vermont: Here’s where I’d go

No matter where you visit, Vermont can feel like another country. It’s natural, unspoiled, and home to an eclectic spirit. The Green Mountain State lets you truly get away. 

Waitsfield, Vermont

On my initial trip here, I stayed in Waitsfield, in the Mad River Valley . There’s peace and quiet along Main Street like few places I’ve been. Sugarbush Mountain Resort towers above, and a vast trail network is ideal for hiking , running, and biking. 

The Mad River meanders through town and offers a refreshing view (and sound) when you want to relax. For a fantastic view of the Green Mountains, try hiking nearby Camel’s Hump, where you’ll get 360-degree vistas of the foliage. When the day’s over, head over to Canteen Cremee Company , which specializes in Vermont’s best fried chicken and maple cremees (Vermont’s word for soft-serve ice cream). 

The Green Mountain Byway

In Vermont, there’s just so much to explore. Turning the key, stepping on the gas, and seeing where it goes lets you find nooks and crannies where time stands still. The Green Mountain Byway begins in Waterbury, Vermont, and then passes through Stowe Village, Morristown, Hyde Park, Jeffersonville, and more. It takes you on a journey through the state’s northern reaches, where you’ll find plenty of foliage, as well as  rustic surroundings.

On the return trip, I’d recommend trying Black Diamond Barbecue in Morristown. Tucked away in the country, the eatery has a quaint atmosphere and plenty of satisfying fare.

Stowe, Vermont

My favorite on this list is my hometown. It offers a blend of quaintness, vibrancy, and nature that sets it apart. Mount Mansfield lines the horizon, marking the state’s highest point at 4,393 feet. Shops and restaurants cover Main Street and Mountain Road, offering local culture and cuisine.

But the highlight of Stowe is the mountain. You have two options for the best view of the foliage: Hike or take the gondola. For an epic morning or evening adventure, I’d hike the Long Trail up to “The Chin: (the highest point on Mansfield) and watch the sun rise (or set) above the tree line. Another option is taking the gondola at Stowe Mountain Resort, which swiftly takes you up to “Cliff House,” a mountainside restaurant and deck. From there, you can continue to “The Chin” via the challenging Cliff Trail and grab some food or take in the surroundings. 

Stowe also has an abundant trail network for hiking, biking, or running. I like trail running on Mount Mansfield, and Cady Hill Forest has a fun mountain bike-focused route system. 

To end the day, try Doc Ponds , where a relaxed atmosphere and an interesting menu create a fun, flavorful time. I like the squash soup paired with a pilsner .

Burlington, Vermont

To cap your fall trip, I recommend spending the day in Burlington. With Lake Champlain setting the stage, the city has a vibrant mood and plenty to do. Along the Church Street Marketplace, abundant shops and restaurants give you a taste of everything. Vermont Flannel offers cozy, made-in-the-USA shirts, and Honey Road makes award-winning Mediterranean cuisine.

How would I spend my day in Burlington? I’d explore the avenues, stroll along Church Street, and end the day with a lakeside sunset. Dinner would be at Taco Gordo — an authentic, gritty Mexican dive — followed by beers on the shoreline at Foam Brewers . 

This fall, get away from it all in Vermont

Though Vermont looks picturesque from a distance, you have to be here to understand. Highways without billboards and untouched mountains offer a true escape, and a unique culture lets you experience something new. Remember, peak fall foliage (mid-September to mid-October) can get crowded, so wake up early, hit the road, and take it all in.

Editors’ Recommendations

• These are the best California road trip itineraries: Plan your route
• POWDR to sell Killington Resort and Pico Mountain to local investors
• A fall trip like no other: Four Seasons Resort Maui offers new “Getaway” experiences
• The 5 best things to do in Dubai for an epic adventure
• The best places to visit in August: Plan the trip of your dreams
• Destinations

After the long, hot summer, fall brings a sense of relief, as the cool air rushes in and leaves change color. It can be a time of reflection or a time to explore, as the comfortable temps lend themselves to easy-going outings. There’s ample opportunity to take in the foliage and anticipate the winter ahead.

In Japan, the 5-star Hotel the Mitsui Kyoto offers a retreat-like setting, where you’re front and center with the change in seasons. Not only that, but the hotel is in the middle of historic sites and events, letting guests experience the country’s unique heritage. Let’s take a closer look. Hotel the Mitsui Kyoto: A blend of luxury and history

Vermont’s 93-mile-long Lamoille Valley Rail Trail, which had its opening delayed by historic flooding last summer, is now ready to welcome recreational enthusiasts. Hikers, bikers, and horseback riders can venture out any time of year, while in the winter, skiers, snowshoers, and snowmobilers can join in the fun.

The trail lets people get up close to Vermont’s rustic, charming landscape, winding through 18 towns and sites like the Fisher Historic Bridge and historic railroad stations. Here’s what you need to know. Lamoille Rail Trail: A historic route everyone can experience

Yellowstone National Park is one of the crown jewels of America’s National Parks system. It quite literally has it all: Majestic geysers, technicolor thermal hot springs, bison-filled forests and fields, craggy canyons, roaring waterfalls, and — you get the gist. Stretching nearly 3,500 square miles across northwest Wyoming, Idaho, and Montana, Yellowstone attracts millions of visitors and tourists looking to revel in the beauty of the country's most spectacular landscapes (just don't get too close to the wildlife).

• Search Please fill out this field.
• Manage Your Subscription
• Give a Gift Subscription
• Newsletters
• Sweepstakes
• Destinations

This 34-mile Scenic Highway Is One of the Best Places to See Fall Foliage in the U.S.

The fall colors on the Kancamagus Highway in New Hampshire have to be seen to be believed.

Evie Carrick is a writer and editor who’s lived in five countries and visited well over 50. She now splits her time between Colorado and Paris, ensuring she doesn't have to live without skiing or L'As du Fallafel.

Raimund Linke/Getty Images

There’s no place like the East Coast in the fall. Plenty of destinations claim to have the highest number of deciduous trees and the most vibrant colors, but very few can compare to the feel of fall in New England .

During a recent trip to the East Coast, I was unknowingly routed onto the Kancamagus Highway , known locally as “The Kanc." Unaware that it is one of the most beautiful and iconic drives in New England — and arguably, the nation — I returned home with stories of the narrow, tree-lined highway that cuts across the state of New Hampshire . It didn’t take long for in-the-know family members to fill me in. 

Recognized as a National Scenic Byway for its stunning views, the Kancamagus Highway runs 34.5 miles from the town of Lincoln toward Conway. As the route cuts west-to-east across the state, it passes through the heart of the scenic White Mountain National Forest . Highway pull-offs provide views of the White Mountains and access to sites like Sabbaday Falls and Rocky Gorge. The west end of the route (the Lincoln side) offers sights like Loon Mountain and Hobo Railroad (aka the Granite State Scenic Railway), while the east end of the Kanc is near Cranmore Mountain Resort, the Conway Scenic Railroad, and several beloved local restaurants. The scenic byway is worth a drive any time of the year (and it is open year-round), but the Kanc is at its best in fall, when the trees that line the picturesque roadway turn vibrant shades of yellow, orange, and red. The highway is one of the main reasons why New Hampshire draws millions of visitors over a few short weeks each fall. The colors and their vibrancy have to be seen to be believed. 

If seeing the spectacular fall display from your car isn’t enough, make a pit stop at one of the many hiking trails that start just off the highway. Popular routes include Sabbaday Brook Trail (which leads to the falls mentioned above), Lincoln Woods Trailhead, and the Boulder Loop Trail. If one of those trails doesn’t catch your fancy, there are plenty more. For a full rundown, head over to kancamagushhighway.com . 

And if you’re lucky, you just might also spot local wildlife on your leaf-peeping journey, as the Kanc is known to provide glimpses of moose, eagles, deer, and bears.

Related Articles

Best East Coast State Parks To Visit In Fall

Your changes have been saved

Email is sent

Email has already been sent

Please verify your email address.

You’ve reached your account maximum for followed topics.

• Autumn is an ideal time to visit East Coast parks for fall foliage and fun activities.
• Baxter State Park in Maine offers early fall foliage views due to its northerly location.
• Grayson Highlands State Park in Virginia offers panoramic views of fall foliage and wild ponies.

Though summer gets most of the attention when it comes to peak travel seasons, the autumn months are really when the best trips happen for millions of travelers of a certain preference.

Once September hits, cooler temperatures start to settle in across much of the country, making even hot desert regions out west much more accessible. In America's temperate forests, autumn also brings some of the greatest displays of fall foliage found anywhere in the world.

Fall colors might be one area where the Eastern United States has an advantage over even the best West Coast parks for fall visits . East Coast forests from New England to the Southern Appalachian Range all assume breathtaking displays of orange, red, and gold once autumn begins settling in. Many scenic regions on the East Coast are prime spots for "leaf-peeping" tourism as millions flock to catch sight of these amazing scenes of natural beauty.

East of the Mississippi, national parks like Shenandoah and Great Smoky Mountains are obvious spots to view breathtaking scenery and partake in fun activities come autumn. But many East Coast state parks are also excellent fall destinations in their own right.

While the Eastern US is dotted with countless terrific state parks, these seven in particular are excellent destinations for fall trips.

7 National Parks That Are Better In The Fall

Avoid summer crowds (and summer heat) and enjoy amazing Fall activities at these seven national parks

7 Baxter State Park

As well-known (and well-developed) as the New England region is, there are still a few large wilderness areas in the Northeastern United States that provide an undisturbed getaway from the modern world. Most of New England's pristine forests lie in the North Maine Woods of the region's northernmost state.

Here, the Maine landscape still maintains large, undeveloped forests, mountains, and other natural settings that provide a spectacular backdrop come autumn.

Maine's Baxter State Park is the premier destination in this untrodden natural landscape, especially when fall foliage breaks out in September. The park contains Mount Katahdin, the highest peak in Maine , and the northern terminus point of the Appalachian Trail.

With its vast areas of untouched deciduous forests, Katahdin and its surrounding mountains are one of the best spots to see spectacular fall colors once the leaves start to change. Baxter State Park has many excellent hiking trails for beginners and experts alike. And, its blissful mountain lakes provide excellent opportunities for experiencing fall foliage on both land and in the water.

Baxter State Park is also a great destination for leaf peepers who want to get an early start on their fall foliage tours. Because the park sits at such a northerly latitude, leaves begin to change colors there much earlier than in most other parts of the country.

Though the exact timeline for peak foliage varies depending on several factors, in general, visitors can expect exquisite fall colors by late September.

6 Smugglers' Notch State Park

Vermont is widely considered to be the destination for fall color tours in the autumn. So, you can pick any Vermont state park at random and likely find amazing fall foliage there. But if you want a state park that provides maximum autumn colors while also sharing many of the most stunning sights in all of Vermont, the wonderful Smugglers' Notch State Park is probably your best bet.

Smugglers' Notch State Park protects an especially scenic area in Vermont's famed Green Mountains. This scenic subrange of the Appalachians gets its name from the deep green color its expansive forests display in the spring and summer.

But once autumn hits, the Green Mountains switch to a dazzling canvas of rich shades of red, orange, and gold, all painted across some of the most beautiful mountains in the region.

Smuggers' Notch State Park preserves the large mountain pass of the same name, which separates the 4,393-foot Mount Mansfield from neighboring peaks. Mount Mansfield is the highest mountain in Vermont , so the fall colors here are particularly prominent when they reach their peak around early October.

In addition to amazing fall colors, Smugglers' Notch State Park is also a great destination for bouldering, rock climbing, mountain biking, and even cave exploration (thanks to the various natural caves dotted across the park).

7 Of The Least-Crowded Towns In Vermont To Catch Fall Foliage

Skip the crowds in Vermont this fall and head to these least-crowded towns instead to experience the most beautiful season!

5 Franconia Notch State Park

New hampshire.

Sharing a border with Vermont is the equally gorgeous state of New Hampshire, another preeminent destination for scenic mountain viewing in New England. Like Vermont, New Hampshire has its color-coded mountain range. The White Mountains, like Vermont's Green Mountains, are a particularly picturesque subrange of the Northern Appalachians.

However, the White Mountains often reach even higher altitudes than those found in Vermont! The range's famed Mount Washington, is the highest mountain in the Northeastern United States, reaching an altitude of 6,288 feet!

Mount Washington State Park , which protects the mountain and much of the surrounding Presidential Range, is a top destination for fall foliage viewing.

But Mount Washington is "the most dangerous small mountain in the world" for a reason. Potentially inclement weather, plus large crowds and steep day-use fees, can turn many travelers off. For them, Franconia Notch State Park is an excellent alternative within the New Hampshire State Park system.

For decades, Franconia Notch State Park was famous for containing the iconic "Old Man of the Mountain," a jagged rock formation on the side of Cannon Mountain that strongly resembled a human face when viewed from the northern side.

Sadly, the Old Man of the Mountain collapsed in 2003 , bringing an end to what had once been a New Hampshire icon. But even without its most famous feature, Franconia Notch State Park still packs a major punch when it comes to amazing scenery.

The park protects its namesake Franconia Pass, which separates the gorgeous Cannon Mountain from the nearby Mount Layfatte. As with Smuggler's Notch State Park in Vermont, Franconia Notch's unique landscape provides abundant views of stunning fall foliage on multiple mountain peaks.

Plus, the park also contains many unique geographic features that make for excellent hikes in the fall. Among other things, Franconia Notch contains the deep Flume Gorge, a narrow granite canyon cut into the surrounding mountains in nearly vertical cliffs.

4 Watkins Glen State Park

Most fall sightseeing trips in New York State focus on the enchanting Adirondacks, the Catskill Mountains, or the Hudson River Valley. But while all of these areas are well-known as excellent fall destinations (and deservedly so), New York has many other state parks that offer amazing and unique views of their own.

Watkins Glen State Park has already achieved worldwide fame as a darling of social media pages across the internet. And one look at any picture of Watkins Glen will quickly reveal why.

The park's defining feature is a deep, complex gorge leftover from glacial retreats of past ice ages. Today, the gorge displays a unique array of scenic waterfalls, narrow chasms, and cliffs all framing a small but mighty waterway running through the surrounding forest. Add the antique stone bridges that span the deep walls of the gorge, and you get something that looks like it came right out of a fantasy novel.

Once peak autumn foliage hits, the already beautiful gorge takes on a whole new level of splendor. Deep oranges and reds of the surrounding forests contrast with the dark silver-blue of the rocks and the white water of the park's many waterfalls.

Pound-for-pound, no state park on the East Coast provides quite as many Instagram-worthy shots of autumn scenery as Watkins Glen. And despite the gorge's precarious terrain, Watkins Glen has excellent hiking trails for all skill levels .

The park is located in New York's Finger Lakes region , close to the shores of Seneca Lake (the largest of the "Finger Lakes" that give the region its name). Thanks to this prime location, Watkins Glen State Park is also an excellent access point for scenic drives around these gorgeous lakes, all of which bear still more beautiful fall colors at the height of autumn.

3 Swallow Falls State Park

Western Maryland is a unique region of the East Coast. Though technically part of Maryland, the area is only barely connected to the rest of the state via a narrow corridor of land less than two miles across at its thinnest.

And though most of Maryland's cultural and socio-economic sphere sits firmly in the Chesapeake Bay-Washington, DC-Mid Atlantic region, Western Maryland is part of the broader Central Appalachian region, more akin to West Virginia than Baltimore.

Given this landscape, Western Maryland also features many of the state's best mountainous views, especially in the fall. Though the entire area lights up in beautiful fall colors, one particularly worthwhile destination for autumn travelers is the marvelous Swallow Falls State Park .

Located next to the state's border with West Virginia, Swallow Falls displays a pristine Appalachian landscape that includes many of the best forest scenes that Maryland has to offer. Among other features, Swallow Falls contains one of the few remaining forests of old-growth hemlock trees in the state.

The park's main landscape sits along the banks of the magnificent Youghiogheny River , widely considered to be one of the most beautiful rivers on the East Coast. As its name suggests, Swallow Falls State Park is notable for its stunning waterfall scenery.

But Swallow Falls contains two distinct waterfalls, both providing exceptional center points for fall scenery in and of themselves. Both the namesake Swallow Falls and the equally gorgeous Muddy Creek Falls are highly photogenic natural wonders that provide ample fall photo opportunities for all visitors.

Thanks to the park's unique layout, hikers can start their tour at the observation point at Muddy Creek Falls, follow the main path to where the creek drains into the Youghiogheny, and end their tour at the edge of Swallow Falls itself. All the while, hikers are treated to a dreamlike atmosphere of the forest's bright fall colors blending with the permanent evergreen of the park's one-of-a-kind hemlock trees.

2 Ohiopyle State Park

Pennsylvania.

The small but mighty Youghiogheny River might as well be called the "state park builder," given the number of scenic state parks and recreational areas that sit along the river's vibrant landscape. North from the lovely waterfalls of Swallow Falls State Park sits another state park defined by the Youghiogheny's penchant for creating picturesque waterfalls, stunning gorges, and overall amazing forest scenery.

Pennsylvania's Ohiopyle State Park is a prime destination in the broader Laurel Highlands region of Southwestern Pennsylvania. As with Swallow Falls, Ohiopyle's central feature is a scenic waterfall formed by the Youghiogheny cascading through a deep Appalachian river valley.

Ohiopyle Falls, despite its magnificent and dramatic appearance, is also quite accessible. The main observation deck and visitors center for falls viewing sits just off the park's main parking area, right across from several restaurants and outfitters.

Here, autumn travelers can get countless great shots of Ohiopyle Falls framed against the enchanting Laurel Highlands fall foliage without having to walk too far from their cars.

But Ohiopyle is so much more than the waterfalls from which it gets its name. The park features miles and miles of scenic hiking trails that display the epitome of the region's autumn beauty.

The park's section of the Youghiogheny is also famous for its many Class III and IV rapids, which make it a popular destination for whitewater rafting. Rafting trips are often still available through October, so you can enjoy a thrilling trip down the river while witnessing some of the best fall foliage views in Pennsylvania.

10 Things To Do In Laurel Highlands: Complete Guide To Pennsylvania's Most Breathtaking Mountain Vista

Laurel Highlands is a gorgeous region in Pennsylvania; discover all the things to do and see there.

1 Grayson Highlands State Park

Outside of New England, the Blue Ridge Mountains are perhaps the best destination in the US to see spectacular fall foliage in the autumn. Throughout the year, the Blue Ridge Mountains offer unique and fun activities for all visitors, but autumn brings out the true extent of this region's beauty.

Southwestern Virginia is a particularly worthwhile fall destination, thanks to its gorgeous mountainous landscape and proximity to several prominent national parks and forests. But Virignia's state parks are no slouches when it comes to the incredible Blue Ridge Mountain fall scenery.

And while many Virginia state parks are excellent destinations for fall travel, there's no better destination than Grayson Highlands State Park when the leaves start turning.

Grayson Highlands sits just north of Virginia's border with North Carolina, within the larger Jefferson National Forest . Notable, the park sits directly adjacent to Mount Rogers , the highest point in all of Virginia. With a backdrop like this, Grayson Highlands provides fall visitors with panoramic views of exquisite autumn colors erupting across the mountains in all directions.

The park's many hiking trails and natural features make it an ideal destination for fall hiking, boating, bouldering, and climbing. But one unique feature of Grayson Highlands found nowhere else in the state is the park's permanent population of wild ponies.

First introduced in the 1970s as a way to manage natural plant life, the wild ponies of Grayson Highlands provide a charming twist to the park's Blue Ridge beauty. In the autumn months, the sight of the park's many gorgeous ponies is an added benefit to the magnificent fall scenery.