Vermont in the fall season doesn’t really need an introduction, and has made a name for itself as one of the best destinations in the U.S. for foliage, cozy fall activities and gorgeous landscapes. I really think that experiencing the charm of Vermont in the fall is absolutely worth it at least once in your life (and definitely more if you live nearby!). This post is all about the best places to stay in Vermont in the fall, including the coziest inns and hotels, and soon, you’ll be ready to plan your own Vermont fall adventure!
My husband and I took our very first trip together to Vermont in 2006, and we even spent our honeymoon in Vermont and have been back countless times since. I’ve been all over the state, and have scouted out the cutest towns to visit, especially in the fall season. Vermont holds a special place in my heart, and I hope it will for you, too, after reading this post. Let’s jump in!
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What Is The Best Time To Visit Vermont In The Fall?
Any time in the fall is a great time to visit Vermont, but if you’re looking to catch foliage at its peak, it’s a bit of a guessing game since there are so many factors that go into predicting foliage times. A general rule of thumb is to know what region to plan to visit, as the northern areas will start to turn earlier than the southern areas.
Another simple answer is that the first two weeks of October are usually a great and safe bet for most regions. Late September is typically a bit too early for foliage in the southern and middle parts of the state, but will be great in the far north. Once Halloween hits, most of the foliage will be found on the ground in all regions. If your primary focus is peak foliage and you want to book your trip in advance, the first half of October is the time of the year I would suggest if you’re planning to visit the mid-section of the state (which is where most people will choose to go).
That said, late October is also nice because while many of the leaves will have fallen by the end of the month, Vermont still very much has the fall vibe going – you’ll hear so many leaves crackling under your feet as you walk, experience the smell of the cool, crisp air and have a higher chance of chillier weather.
As always, it’s best to do your research based on early expert reports online. A great resource is this tool on the Vermont’s tourism website. And remember, much like other natural, seasonal experiences (like cherry blossoms, for example) things can change quickly because of shifts in weather, so it’s best to go into your trip with a positive mindset, and know you may miss foliage despite your best planning efforts.
Best Places To Stay In Vermont In The Fall (2022)
Vermont is absolutely packed with charming small towns, quaint villages and even some larger, exciting cities. Depending on what you’re looking for, you have so many options when deciding on the best places to stay in Vermont in the fall. Here are my absolute favorite destinations for the Vermont fall foliage season to make it easier for you to decide.
1. Woodstock
Definitely one of my absolute favorites, and one of the best places to stay in Vermont in the fall is Woodstock. You’ve probably heard this from others during your research as well, and it really lives up to its reputation.
Right in the town center, you’re already overloaded with beautiful things like charming boutiques, gorgeous houses, a covered bridge over the river and even a Town Crier board that seems like something straight out of Gilmore Girls. You’ll really feels the sense of community in Woodstock, and it’s hard to beat as a place to stay in the fall.
Best Things To Do In Woodstock, VT In The Fall
- Meander through town to appreciate the local vibe, and visit all the shops.
- Sample cheese and maple syrups at Sugarbush Farms.
- Learn about farm life at the working Billings Farm & Museum.
- Visit the town’s three covered bridges.
- Take a foliage hike up to Mount Peg or Mount Tom.
- Experience the Apples, Craft Fair & Food Truck Festival in October.
Click here to read more about all the best things to do in Woodstock, VT!
Best Places To Stay In Woodstock, VT In The Fall
The Woodstock Inn & Resort is one of the places to stay in Vermont in the fall, hands down. If you’re looking for a luxury experience in a beautiful and cozy inn that’s walkable to Woodstock’s town center, this will check all the boxes. The inn also has amazing amenities like an on-site spa, on-sites restaurants, complimentary bikes and shuttles to local sites, entry to Billings Farm, luxurious robes and slippers and afternoon beverages and baked goods. Regarded as “Vermont’s most beautiful address,” The Woodstock Inn is the ultimate fall foliage experience.
Click here to book your stay at the Woodstock Inn & Resort!
506 On The River is a very short drive just outside of town center, and it sits along a picturesque river, and is beautifully decorated and very cozy. The inn has an awesome tavern on-site, and other amenities include marshmallow roasting in the evenings, an outdoor pool and sauna, a kid’s play room and game room for adults, and the option to book one of their farmhouse suites for families or larger groups. This is a great alternative to the Woodstock Inn if that one doesn’t fit into your budget.
Click here to book your stay at 506 On The River in Woodstock!
The Jackson House Inn is a great B&B option that includes an amazing locally-sourced and seasonal breakfast with your stay. Located about a 5-minute drive from town center, the Jackson House Inn has gorgeous grounds with 3 acres of gardens to enjoy, traditionally-decorated rooms for ultra coziness and gas fireplaces in some of the suites.
Click here to book your stay at the Jackson House Inn in Woodstock!
2. Quechee
Quechee (pronounced KWEH-chee) is a little village very close to Woodstock, so technically, you could stay in Woodstock, and make a little side excursion to Quechee. But I wanted to give it its own mention because I think it’s really lovely, and one of the best places to stay in Vermont in the fall.
Quechee is very small and there isn’t a ton to do, but you’ll definitely be able to fill up a weekend with fun activities, restaurants and taking in the sites.
Best Things To Do In Quechee, VT In The Fall
- Visit the Simon Pearce flagship store for lunch overlooking the river, and experience a glassblowing demonstration.
- Go antiquing at the Antique Mall.
- Explore the Quechee Gorge for awesome foliage views.
- Sample local spirits at Vermont Spirits.
Best Places To Stay In Quechee, VT In The Fall
Since Quechee is on the smaller side, accommodation options are slim, but once place I recommend checking out is the Quechee Inn At Marshland Farm. This inn is a renovated house from the 1700s, so it’s packed with New England charm and coziness, and has a really great restaurant on-site. Each room is traditionally decorated to preserve its history, and the inn is also listed on the National Register of Historic Places.
Click here to book your stay at the Quechee Inn At Marshland Farm!
3. Stowe
Stowe is another one of my top favorites and one of the best places to stay in Vermont in the fall. Stowe is also pretty small, and is a big ski town, but it’s also amazing in the fall. You’ll be able to see some covered bridges, lots of foliage, stay at some really awesome resorts, peruse adorable shops on Main Street and go for scenic walks.
The landscapes around Stowe are some of the most famous in all of Vermont, and used in a lot of stock photography. The white church standing tall amongst the trees and fall foliage is rather famous, and when you see it in person, it’s hard to feel like you’re not living in a postcard.
Best Things To Do In Stowe, VT In The Fall
- Explore the shops along Main Street.
- Sample locally-made chocolates at Laughing Moon Chocolate.
- Take a scenic walk along the Recreation Path in town to admire the foliage.
- Venture over to nearby Waterbury to tour the Ben & Jerry’s Factory.
- Hop on the Gondola Skyride to see the fall foliage from the top of Mount Mansfield, Vermont’s tallest mountain.
- Experience the Stowe Foliage Arts Festival (usually around Columbus weekend each year).
Click here to read my post on all the best things to do in Stowe for even more ideas!
Click here to read about the best stops to make when driving from Boston to Stowe, VT!
Best Places To Stay In Stowe, VT In The Fall
The Lodge at Spruce Peak is one of the best places to stay in Vermont in the fall, even though it’s well-known as being a ski destination. This resort has so many amenities that will allow you to really soak in the fall season, including being steps away from the Stowe Mountain Gondola, cozy on-site restaurants and even a little village with shops right at the resort. Rooms are decorated in autumnal lodge colors to also enhance your foliage getaway.
Click here to book your stay at the Lodge At Spruce Peak!
The Field Guide Lodge is one of my favorite places to stay when I visit Stowe for solo getaways, and is fairly priced for the region, considering the amenities it offers. It’s a short drive or a quick 10-minute walk to town center, and the rooms are beautifully decorated in a modern but rustic design, which works really well to compliment your fall trip. There’s also a really nice public lounge space with a fireplace and a heated outdoor pool that’s usually still open in the fall, depending on weather.
Click here to book your stay at Field Guide Lodge!
For a more romantic getaway, or the option to be in the heart of town center, the Green Mountain Inn is one of the best places to stay in Vermont in the fall. This place feels like the ultimate, cozy New England inn, and they also have an outdoor heated pool and jacuzzi that’s open year-round. Quite a few of the rooms also come with jacuzzis and a fireplace, and their grounds have fire pits for cozy fall evenings.
Click here to book your stay at the Green Mountain Inn!
4. Burlington
Burlington is one of the best places to stay in Vermont in the fall if you’re looking for more of a city atmosphere that still feels very, well … Vermont. Burlington is an awesome destination that perfectly combines nature, art, shopping, fall foliage with a lively college town feel (since it’s home to the University of Vermont).
Between walking along the lakefront path of Lake Champlain and spotting a cute little lighthouse, to strolling through the arts district, there’s a lot to do in Burlington that also offers opportunities to really experience the fall season at its best.
Best Things To Do In Burlington, VT In The Fall
- Walk along Lake Champlain to admire the foliage.
- Stroll through the Burlington Farmer’s Market for fall treats on Saturdays.
- Ride bikes along the bike path to see more foliage.
- Sample some chocolates at Lake Champlain Chocolates.
- Taste some locally-made fall beers at the breweries.
Best Places To Stay In Burlington, VT In The Fall
The Lang House is a great little B&B that will feel so welcoming and homey. The location is also amazing because it’s walkable to both the lakefront park and Church Street Marketplace for shops and dining. A wonderful breakfast is also included with each stay, and they also sell beer and wine on-site for a pre-dinner drink.
Click here to book your stay at the Lang House in Burlington!
If you’d like to wake up to views of Lake Champlain each morning, one of the best places to stay in Vermont in the fall is the Hilton at Lake Champlain (just be sure to specifically book a lake view room!). Rooms will be pretty standard since it’s a chain hotel, but the hotel is very clean comfortable and modern, and the views of the lake can’t be beat.
Click here to book your stay at the Hilton At Lake Champlain In Burlington!
For an affordable option on your fall foliage vacation, the Hollywood-themed Starlight Inn is a great choice. It’s no secret that Vermont in the fall season can be pricey, but for a simple, clean and comfortable room that’s only a 15-minute drive to Burlington’s lakefront and city center, and very affordable, this is definitely one to consider.
Click here to book your stay at the Starlight Inn in Burlington!
5. Shelburne
Shelburne is very close to Burlington, making it an easy excursion from Burlington if you’re looking to experience city life with a little bit of small town charm mixed in. But I wanted to mention Shelburne separately because it can easily stand alone as one of the best places to stay in Vermont in the fall. As an alternative, you could stay in Shelburne, and take a trip to Burlington for a day. They’re only about 20 minutes from one another.
Shelburne is another smaller town, but has a lot to offer including some cute shops and restaurants, an amazing farmstead to explore (more on that below), apple orchards and plenty of foliage to go around.
Best Things To Do In Shelburne, VT In The Fall
- Tour Shelburne Farms for amazing foliage.
- Go beer tasting at Fiddlehead Brewing Company.
- Explore the Shelburne Museum.
- Go apple picking at Shelburne Orchards.
- See what you can find at Shelburne Country Store.
Click here to read my post on all the best things to do in New England in the fall!
Best Places To Stay In Shelburne, VT In The Fall
One of the best things to do in Shelburne, VT is explore and tour Shelburne Farms. This place is really amazing, especially during fall foliage season. You can even stay overnight at their gorgeous inn on the farm grounds, and enjoy a spectacular farm-to-table meal at their restaurant.
On the farm grounds, you’ll find over 10 miles of walking trails, and it’s one of my all-time favorite things to do in Vermont to explore these trails. You’ll experience serene walks through the woods, climb to amazing view points, and cross open fields with sheep grazing around you. It’s really a wonderful experience that’s often not at all crowded. I usually feel like I have the place to myself.
As you pass through buildings on your walk around the grounds, you’ll see a cheese-tasting area, and also a bakery, where I always stop and buy a croissant to enjoy on my walk. They sometimes also have a food truck set-up. I can’t recommend this whole experience enough, especially in the fall season.
Click here to book your stay at Shelburne Farms!
If staying on a farm isn’t your thing, another great option is the Heart of the Village Inn. As the same suggests, you’ll be right in the heart of Shelburne’s town center, and they’re also known for serving up am awesome made-to-order breakfast, which is included in the room rate. Each room is individually decorated, many featuring autumnal colors to enhance your fall getaway, and it’s also worth noting that this is an adults-only property.
Click here to book your stay at the Heart of the Village Inn in Shelburne!
6. Bennington
Bennington is a great little town in Southern, VT that’s especially perfect for those driving in from the Albany, NY region because it’s such a short drive from there. You’ll find lots of opportunities to catch fall foliage in Bennington, as well as a cute little Main Street with shops and restaurants, an awesome country store for baked goods, apples and pumpkins, antique shops and a really cool monument.
Best Things To Do In Bennington, VT In The Fall
- Shop at the Apple Barn for amazing baked goods, including apple cider donuts, fresh apples, pumpkins and lots of locally-made and specialty goods.
- Visit the Bennington Battle Monument, which offers amazing fall foliage views from the top.
- Stroll along Main Street to visit the shops.
- Visit the local apple orchards to go apple picking.
- Visit Silk Road Covered Bridge.
- Take a trip to nearby Manchester.
Best Places To Stay In Bennington, VT In The Fall
The Four Chimneys Inn is a gorgeous destination that really encapsulates New England charm and coziness. They advertise themselves as a mix between a charming inn and a boutique hotel, offering the best of both worlds. Located a short 5-minute drive from town center, each room is beautifully decorated, many with jetted tub and gas fireplace options. A full country breakfast is also included in your stay, and the grounds are beautifully landscaped.
Click here to book your stay at Four Chimneys Inn in Bennington!
7. Manchester
Manchester is only about a 30-minute drive from Bennington, so you can combine these into one trip, but both deserve their own mentions. Manchester is a great little town to see some fall foliage, as well as take on a few hikes, do some outlet shopping, experience some great restaurants and also small-town charm.
Because Manchester is home to some outlet shopping right on the main road that runs through town, it might feel a little less like a charming Vermont town than you may picture in your head. I don’t personally think it takes anything away from Manchester, but I wanted to mention is so you can level-set your expectations. I still love visiting Manchester and think it’s definitely worth your time. In fact, it might be one of my most-visited towns because of the variety of things to do.
Best Things To Do In Manchester, VT In The Fall
- Explore the shops in town, including the most adorable little bookstore, Northshire.
- Visit Hildene, the Lincoln family home, to see the amazing gardens, nature paths and admire the foliage views.
- Walk to Lye Brook Falls.
- Experience the Mount Snow Oktoberfest in nearby Dover (usually around Columbus weekend in October).
- Hike or drive up to Mount Equinox for amazing foliage landscapes.
- Grab dinner at The Silver Fork, which is inside an old library and serves up absolutely amazing food.
Best Places To Stay In Manchester, VT In The Fall
One of the best places to stay in Vermont in the fall is the Kimpton Taconic Hotel. I absolutely love the design of the rooms, which is very modern farmhouse meets traditional New England. And one of the best things about Kimpton hotels is that they’re all pet-friendly, with no additional pet fees or breed restrictions, making this a great option for those wanting to bring their dog with them. Located just about a mile from town center, this hotel also has a great on-site restaurant that focuses on locally-sourced and seasonal ingredients (oh, and really amazing cocktails!).
Click here to book your stay at the Kimpton Taconic in Manchester!
For a more budget-friendly option, the Hampton Inn & Suites is a great choice. Located a quick drive, or a 10-minute walk from town center, the rooms here, while basic, are clean, modern and comfortable.
Click here to book your stay at the Hampton Inn & Suites in Manchester!
8. Waitsfield
Another one of the best places to stay in Vermont in the fall is Waitsfield, which can be found in the Mad River Valley area. Waitsfield is home to one of the most beautiful inns in Vermont, the Featherbed Inn (see more on that below!), which makes for a perfect fall getaway in the Vermont countryside.
Waitsfield is a bit more rural, but still offers lots to do – much of which is enjoying the natural beauty of the picturesque Vermont fall landscapes around the area. Besides that, you’ll find covered bridges, some really great restaurants, farms to tour and lots of time to relax and enjoying the atmosphere.
Best Things To Do In Waitsfield, VT In The Fall
- Ride the Single Chair Lift at Mad River Glen for spectacular foliage views.
- Taste locally-made beer and cider at Lawson’s Finest Liquids.
- Stroll along the trails at Mad River Path.
- Visit Hartshorn Organic Farm for a farm tour, watch maple syrup get made in-season, and sample their homemade bread. This place is really special, and I recommend you visit!
- Explore Waitsfield’s covered bridges.
- Go for a walk through Wu Ledges Forest.
- Grab some comforting pizza at American Flatbread.
Best Places To Stay In Waitsfield, VT In The Fall
Okay guys, I can’t talk about the best places to stay in Vermont in the fall and not mention the Featherbed Inn. This a truly spectacular New England B&B if you’re looking for a bit of a splurge on your foliage getaway. Each stay includes a farm-to-table breakfast, miles of walking trails to explore right on the grounds where you can admire the foliage without straying far, a hot tub for guests to enjoy and s’mores in the evenings.
As the name suggests, each room is equipped with a featherbed topper on the mattress for a glorious night of sleep, and the rooms evoke New England coziness. The location is also excellent and close to the local restaurants.
Click here to book your stay at the Featherbed Inn in Waitsfield!
The Whitehorse Lodge is one of the best places in Vermont to stay in the fall for solo travelers and those on a budget. For solo travelers, this hotel offers inexpensive twin rooms, and for those on a budget, there are queen and king rooms available at a very fair rate. Rooms are decorated with a very cozy feel, and the hotel itself also feels special with a grand stone fireplace and leather sofas in the common area.
Click here to book your stay at Whitehorse Lodge!
Mad River Lodge is another awesome budget-friendly option with rooms decorated in a modern rustic design. For the price and the unique and fun decor, this is a really excellent option for the area.
Click here to book your stay at Mad River Lodge!
9. Montgomery
One of the best places to stay in Vermont in the fall is Montgomery, and this town is one of the furthest north on the list, which means you may experience some awesome foliage at the end of September.
Montgomery is a cute little town with picturesque landscapes, covered bridges and lots of hiking opportunities. It’s a bit more of a remote town, so there are fewer options for restaurants and shops, making this a great option for those looking to really get away, disconnect and enjoy nature. That said, there’s still plenty to do, and you’ll be able to dine at some awesome restaurants, and cozy up at some very lovely inns.
Click here to read about the the best Vermont covered bridges driving tour itinerary!
Best Things To Do In Montgomery, VT In The Fall
- Take a ride on the Jay Peak Tramway for incredible mountain and foliage views (on a clear day, you may be able to see Canada!).
- Drive around to visit the covered bridges.
- Take a foliage hike at Hazen’s Notch.
- Relax and get pampered at the Vermont Salt Cave Spa.
- Grab some wood-fired pizzas at Fired On The Mountain (served Fridays and Saturdays only as of 2022).
Best Places To Stay In Montgomery, VT In The Fall
The Phineus Swan Inn is a really cool place to stay in Vermont in the fall, and is also another dog-friendly option that only charges a one-time $25 fee per stay for your dog. This inn also has an on-site spa and includes a wonderful breakfast with each stay. Rooms are decorated with New England charm, and you’re only about 15 minutes away from Jay Peak Resort to take the tramway.
Click here to book your stay at Phineus Swann Inn in Montgomery!
The INN is another one of the best places to stay in Vermont in the fall season. This place also includes a full country breakfast in the room rate, and also has an on-site restaurant that focuses on locally-sourced ingredients, seasonal flavors and specialty drinks/cocktails. Each room is uniquely decorated using fun wallpapers and autumnal colors to enhance your fall stay.
Click here to book your stay at The INN in Montgomery!
10. Burke
Burke is a wonderful little town that’s also pretty far north, so you’ll likely want to consider planning your visit at the end of September, which also happens to coincide with the town’s Fall Foliage Festival. Being that Burke is more remote, you’ll have a nice and peaceful escape up here with spectacular foliage landscapes, but you’ll still be able to indulge at the local restaurants, and stay at a quaint and cozy inn.
Best Things To Do In Burke, VT In The Fall
- Attend the annual Fall Foliage Festival (typically the last weekend in September) and shop from over 60 craft vendors, enjoy live music and farm animals, as well as activities for children.
- Take a quick 10-minute drive to Lyndonville to visit their three covered bridges.
- Pop into Northeast Kingdom Country Store to shop for gifts, and also get some great food.
- Enjoy a locally-sourced upscale dinner at the Inn at Burklyn.
- See the foliage from the water by renting a canoe or kayak for the afternoon at Clyde River Recreation.
- Hit the trails at Lake Willoughby to admire the foliage surrounding this gorgeous glacial lake with crystal clear waters.
Best Places To Stay In Burke, VT In The Fall
The Village Inn is one of the best places to stay in Vermont in the fall because of their incredible outdoor spaces. Think cozy fireside drinks and s’mores in hunter green Adirondack chairs amongst the falling leaves. Fall perfection, right? Rooms are simple and clean, but still decorated in a modern rustic design, and there’s also a year-round jacuzzi for guests to use.
Click here to book your stay at The Village Inn in Burke!
The Inn At Burklyn is one of the best places to stay in Vermont in the fall for a luxury getaway. Surrounded by countryside for miles, and mountain views, you’re guaranteed incredible foliage right outside your room. The inn was a former mansion, and each room on the estate now exudes luxury with gorgeous designs and original furnishings and fireplaces, and all the amenities you’d expect such as luxury linens, robes and marble bathrooms. The restaurant on-site also offers a memorable fine dining experience.
Click here to book your stay at the Inn At Burklyn!
11. Middlebury
Middlebury is one of the best places to stay in Vermont in the fall if you’re looking for a destination that’s a perfect mix between a city like Burlington, and a smaller town. Since Middlebury is home to Middlebury College, it has a great college town feel, but also lots of charm, and is a great place to see fall foliage.
In Middlebury, you’ll find cozy inns, great restaurants, covered bridges, classic Vermont landscapes and a great local brewery and distillery scene.
Best Things To Do In Middlebury, VT In The Fall
- Visit Pulp Mill and Halpin covered bridges.
- Go apple picking and get some cider donuts at Happy Valley Orchard.
- Taste locally-made fall beers at Drop-In Brewing Company.
- Taste the local spirits at Appalachian Gap Distillery.
- Pick up some Vermont gifts at Burnham Maple Farm & Market.
Best Places To Stay In Middlebury, VT In The Fall
The Middlebury Inn is a wonderful choice that’s very fairly priced, especially during foliage season for the amenities it offers. Walkable to many of the town’s sites and attractions, this inn has an on-site tavern and spa, and rooms simply designed with traditional New England style and comforts.
Click here to book your stay at the Middlebury Inn!
Cornwall Orchard B&B is another one of the best places to stay in Vermont in the fall because, well, it sits right on an apple orchard. Located just a few minutes from Middlebury in Cornwall, this beautiful inn is very small with only 4 rooms, but packs in so much charm with your stay. You’ll get a full country breakfast each morning, 13 acres of grounds to explore in the countryside, mountain views and cozy rooms that have been beautifully updated.
Click here to book your stay at Cornwall Orchards B&B!
12. Grafton
Grafton is another small town, and is definitely one of the best places to stay in Vermont in the fall. In Grafton, you’ll find those picture-perfect countryside landscapes, covered bridges, a really cozy inn, great restaurants and lots of opportunity for scenic walks on nature trails.
Best Things To Do In Grafton, VT In The Fall
- Sample local cheeses and pick up some wine and gifts at Grafton Village Cheese.
- Visit Kidder and McWilliam covered bridges.
- Pop into the gorgeous Mercantile for a little shopping.
- Hit the trails or rent a canoe at the Grafton Outdoor Center.
- Enjoy a memorable dinner inside an old barn at Phelps Barn Pub.
Best Places To Stay In Grafton, VT In The Fall
The best place to stay in Grafton is the Grafton Inn. This inn in centrally-located to all the town’s attractions, and is an incredibly cozy destination for a perfect fall getaway. The inn is home to Phelps Barn Pub, a unique and really cool renovated barn-turned-pub that offers a memorable dining experience. Also on-site is a really beautiful bar that serves amazing wines and cocktails, as well as a tavern for another dining option. Rooms are beautifully decorated in traditional New England style.
Click here to book your stay at the Grafton Inn!
13. Montpelier
Last on my list is Montpelier, which is the capital of Vermont and a great place to stay to experience the fall foliage. The Vermont tourism board calls Montpelier “a small town with big-city” amenities, and I couldn’t agree more with that statement!
It definitely has the feeling of a small town (but not quite as much as, say, places like Woodstock or Grafton), and you’ll have lots of restaurant choices and fall activities to choose from. This is a great destination for those looking to have a more city vibe that’s still full of charm for their Vermont fall getaway.
Best Things To Do In Montpelier, VT In The Fall
- Stroll through Hubbard Park to admire the foliage.
- Sample locally-made syrup and pick up some gifts at the Bragg Farm Sugar House.
- Enjoy a seasonal craft cocktail or taste locally-made award-winning gin at Caledonia Spirits.
- Explore the shops downtown.
- Go apple picking at either Peck Farm Orchards or Burtt’s Apple Orchard.
- Enjoy an upscale farm-to-table dinner at Oakes & Evelyn.
Best Places To Stay In Montpelier, VT In The Fall
The Capitol Plaza is one of the best places to stay in Vermont for an in-town stay that’s close to all the sites, shops and restaurants. It has more of a standard hotel feel to it, but the location can’t be beat. All rooms have recently been renovated, and you’ll be able to select rooms with clawfoot tubs to enhance your stay.
Click here to book your stay at the Capitol Plaza in Montpelier!
What Is There To Do In Vermont In The Fall?
Anything you can think of that’s fall related! Apple and pumpkin picking is plentiful and amazing out in Vermont. Depending on which town you choose to stay in, I would definitely recommend finding a local orchard or pumpkin field to round-out your Vermont fall foliage trip – you’ll be hard-pressed not to find one nearby.
Many of Vermont’s towns have lots of community events in the fall season that you may enjoy (I noted some in each of the towns above). Click here to check out a fall calendar of events in Vermont.
Another thing not to miss in Vermont in the fall is seasonal, farm-to-table dining. Any town you visit, you’ll find a restaurant that’s featuring locally-sourced ingredients and highlighting delicious fall flavors, from specialty cocktails to scrumptious dinners. Be sure to indulge in a great, seasonal meal that highlights fall flavors for a true Vermont experience.
But really, the best thing to do in Vermont in the fall is to slow down and enjoy the atmosphere because that’s likely the reason for your trip to begin with. Really soak in that crisp, country air, enjoy all the charming streets covered in falling leaves, and tour the covered bridges and other gorgeous landscapes.
Click here to read my post on the best Vermont covered bridges driving tour!
How Long Does Fall Foliage In Vermont Last?
Foliage season lasts from mid-September through October (again, depending on the region). Each year will be different depending on the weather and temperature patterns, but this is the generally accepted foliage season in Vermont.
As stated already, keep in mind that in mid-late September, foliage is only just beginning, and predominately in the northern part of the state. The beginning of October is when you’ll really see it start to take off, and the color will stick around through October. Once November hits, most of the trees are bare, but the leaves will still be floating on the ground (unless they’re already covered by snow!).
What Is The Weather Like In Vermont In The Fall?
Vermont weather is the fall is likely what you’re already thinking – chillier days, especially in the evenings, slightly higher chances of rain and possibly even snow. In early October, you can possibly expect warmer days and chillier evenings, and later in the month, you’ll want to anticipate colder temperatures during the day and evenings. But it can vary differently from year to year.
As with all of New England, weather is fickle, and changes frequently. You could get a huge snowstorm in October one year, and the next year, not see more than an inch all month with more warmer days than usual.
I always recommend checking the weather report a few days to a week before your planned trip, and pack accordingly based on those predictions.
You may also enjoy:
- Best Things To Do in Upstate New York in the Fall
- Vermont In The Fall: Festive Things To Do!
- 75 New England Bucket List Things You Must See & Do
- Best Stops To Make Driving From Boston to Stowe, VT
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- Most Incredible New England Resorts & Spas
- The Perfect New England Fall Road Trip
- Vermont vs. New Hampshire In The Fall
- Best Vermont Pumpkin Patches & Farm Stands To Visit In The Fall
- Awesome Corn Mazes In Vermont
That’s A Wrap On The Best Places To Stay In Vermont In The Fall
Hopefully now that you know all the best places to stay in Vermont in the fall, you’re feeling ready to plan and book your fall foliage trip! Whether you choose a quaint and charming town like Woodstock or Stowe, a more remote village like Grafton or even more of a city like Burlington, you really can’t go wrong with Vermont in the fall.
