There is no better destination in the U.S. than Vermont in the fall season. There, I said it! It might be a bold claim, but I’m stickin’ to it 😂
Vermont has a special place in my heart because it’s where my husband and I honeymooned, and I’ve been going back to explore every inch of it ever since – that’s over 10 years of visiting the Green Mountain State!
Between postcard-worthy foliage landscapes, quaint villages, the flavors of fall like apples, cider and maple syrup, adorable covered bridges, and insanely gorgeous mountains ablaze in reds and oranges, Vermont in the fall is sure to catch your heart, too.
This post is all about the most amazing things to do in the Green Mountain State in this spectacular season, which I think is the best time to visit Vermont. Are you ready to plan your most fun and cozy fall trip yet? Let’s get started!
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When To Visit Vermont For Fall Foliage
While Vermont is a small state, foliage will still peak at different times throughout each region. Here’s a quick guide to give you an idea of what areas peak when:
Northern Vermont: End of September
Mid-Vermont: Early October (usually around Indigenous People’s weekend). This region includes popular places like Stowe and Woodstock.
Southern Vermont: Mid-October, usually just about a week or so after mid-Vermont peaks.
It’s best to keep in mind that fall foliage in Vermont, and all of New England, is not an exact science. The timing can fluctuate from year to year, and sometimes it can peak sooner, and it can run behind schedule, too. It all depends on weather patterns, rainfall, and temperature fluctuations throughout the earlier part of the year.
That said, the above guides are usually pretty accurate. But, I always like to remind people there’s always a chance it could fall outside of these timelines.
If you need to plan your trip in advance (and in Vermont, you definitely need to as this is a high season for tourists!), I always say err on the side of a bit early if you’re unsure. It’s better to see the fall foliage just before peak than after when all the trees are bare.
That said, foliage should last on the trees for about two weeks. This is, again, a guess, and there have been years where leaves fell pretty quickly, and only stayed on for about a week or so. There have also been years where it last for closer to 3-4 weeks.
If you happen to visit on a year that foliage peaks a bit early and you miss it, fear not! I still think foliage season just after peak time is still gorgeous. You’ll see a lot more leaves on the ground as opposed to the trees, so mountains may not be aglow with that impressive fall color. But there’s still something special about this time of the year before the first snowfall.
And, of course, communities around Vermont will be gearing up with fall and Halloween festivals throughout all of October! Fall will definitely still be in the air after peak foliage season.
Where To Go In Vermont In September
If you’re hoping to visit Vermont in September, and also catch a glimpse of fall color, I would target the Northern Kingdom in the last two weeks of September. Sometimes fall color will last in this area through early October, but generally, experts predict last-September for this area. Some great areas and towns to visit here are:
- Lake Willoughby
- Newport
- Jay
- Montgomery (great town for covered bridges!)
Jay, in particular, is wonderful for fall foliage, and has some great mountain areas for hikes, as well as a tram ride to the summit of Jay Peak. This runs through the beginning of October, and it’s a unique experience because it’s the only mountain tram in Vermont.
At the end of September, you can also enjoy the Burke Fall Festival in Burke, VT!
Where To Go In Vermont In October
October is when foliage around the rest of the state really begins to take off, and by Indigenous People’s weekend, most of Vermont is alive with fall color. If you’re planning to visit Vermont for a week or more during foliage season, I suggest you start your trip right at the beginning of October, and then chase the foliage heading from north to south, starting in Stowe, and ending near the Manchester/Bennington areas.
The best places for fall foliage around Indigenous People’s weekend are:
- Stowe
- Woodstock
- Montpelier
- Burlington/Lake Champlain/Shelburne
- Middlebury
The best places for fall foliage right after Indigenous People’s weekend are:
- Manchester
- Bennington
- Brattleboro
- Wilmington
- Shaftsbury/Arlington
Psst! I have an entire guide on the best times and places to see fall foliage in Vermont, if you need more info 😉
Best Things To Do In Vermont In The Fall
Okay, so now you know when to go to Vermont in the fall, let’s talk about all the amazing towns, places to see, and things to do this time of the year! Below are all my recommendations on the things that are most worth your time on a fall trip.
1. Explore Stowe
If there’s one place that pretty much has it all in Vermont, it’s Stowe. While it’s one of the most popular towns to visit in the state, especially in the fall season, it’s one that’s 100% worth the effort!, and even makes my list of best places to visit in New England. Not only does it offer tons to do for such a small little town, it’s got some of the best fall foliage in the northeast.
Stowe’s village is so cute and charming, and is home to a wonderful general store, mercantile, café, and lovely boutiques. Main Street is also home to the iconic white steepled church that’s used in a lot of stock imagery for fall in New England, which makes for great photos.
From Main Street, you can also pick up the wonderful Recreation Path, which has lots of fall color this time of the year. Just walk behind the church to find it! But you can also pick it up throughout town.
In the village, you can also pop into Stowe Cidery, which is especially great in the fall season, and drive a bit to The Alchemist Brewery, which is one of my all-time favorites.
If you drive a few minutes outside of the village, you’ll also be able to visit Emily’s Covered Bridge, drive Smugglers Notch, and take a gondola to Vermont’s highest peak (but more on all three of these things later because they deserve their own mention).
Also, to get to Stowe, you need to drive through Waterbury Center, which is home to the Ben & Jerry’s Factory, and a great little shopping area with Cold Hollow Cider Mill, an excellent coffee shop, a distillery, and the Cabot Cheese Farmer’s Store.
See what I mean when I say Stowe has it all?
2. Drive Through Smugglers Notch
Just a few minutes outside of the village of Stowe, you’ll find the very scenic Smugglers Notch park. But really, the best part is simply the drive through it. The road that runs through the park is completely free for all, and it’s entirely ablaze with fall color, making it simply magical during foliage season.
The drive is only about 3.5 miles long one-way, and runs along Route 108, which connects Stowe to Cambridge, VT. So while it doesn’t take long, it’s definitely worth doing.
During the drive, please exercise caution, as there are some hairpin turns that could be dangerous if you’re not careful. Otherwise, relax and enjoy the ride!
Pro Tip: Once you reach the end of the drive, you can spend some time in Cambridge. While not as picturesque as Stowe, you can swing into the Vermont Maple Outlet and Boyden Valley Winery & Spirits, and also pop on over to the Cambridge Junction Covered Bridge.
3. Ride The Stowe Gondola To The Top Of Mount Mansfield
Also in Stowe, you have easy access to the amazing Stowe Gondola, which takes you to the top of Vermont’s highest peak – Mount Mansfield.
The gondola is along the Smugglers Notch drive, so if you want to do both, it’s best to do them together. The gondola ride takes about 15 minutes each way, and once you’re at the top, you’re rewarded with breathtaking views of the mountain vistas, as well as the resort below. It’s really such a cool thing to see in person! In the fall, the mountains just look orange, as you can see in the photo above.
At the top, you’ll also have access to some eateries, one of which is a fun little waffle place.
If you’re feeling ambitious, you can also hike up to the top!
Pro Tip: This is a popular attraction in the fall season, and only runs through mid-October. It’s best to purchase your ticket online in advance to save time when you arrive. I also suggest going on your ride in the morning to avoid the longest lines at the gondola.
4. Visit The Haunted Emily’s Bridge
Lastly in Stowe, you have to see Emily’s Covered Bridge! Rumor has it, it’s haunted, so this is especially exciting to do just after sunset, or on a cloudy, overcast afternoon.
Legend has it that a young woman named Emily hung herself from the bridge when her lover didn’t meet her there to elope, and has haunted the bridge ever since. Since the 1960s, there have been reports of unusual activity at the bridge, including people claiming strange scratches found on their car after driving over it, a woman’s voice screaming, and other unexplained noises.
While there’s no documentation or confirmed history that a woman died at the bridge, so many people have had strange experiences here that it’s most definitely eerie to visit whether you believe in ghosts or not.
When you visit the bridge, there are a few parking spaces on the Covered Bridge Road side if you’d like to get out and explore. However, just be aware that this is a working bridge, and there will be cars driving across, so please be careful while you enjoy the scenery.
5. Visit One Of The Cute Pumpkin Patches & Farm Stands
Vermont is packed to the brim with wonderful pumpkin patches and farm stands! If you happen to be near one, or live in the New England area and want to bring home some pumpkins, you’ll want to have these on your radar as you drive around.
One of my personal favorite pumpkin patches in Vermont is at Armstrong Farm just outside of Bennington, which is in the southern region of the state. They spell out Vermont with pumpkins on their lawn, and it makes for such a great photo spot on your visit! They have awesome pumpkins to choose from, including some heirloom varieties, and a cute little farm stand with maple syrup and more goodies.
Just down the road from Armstrong Farm is the Apple Barn Bakery & Café, which has awesome cider donuts, cookies, apple pastries and tons more. They also have a great farm store with local cheeses, beer, gifts, apples, etc.
Here are some more great Vermont pumpkin patches and farm stands to check out:
- Whitcomb’s Land of Pumpkins and Corn Maze
- Kingdom Corn Maze & Pumpkin Patch at Simpson Farm
- Dutton Farm Store
- Equinox Valley Nursery (great cider donuts here, too!)
6. Visit Cold Hollow Cider Mill
One of the most festive places to visit in the fall in the Green Mountain State is Cold Hollow Cider Mill. I first visited here on a trip my husband and I took before our honeymoon 2009, so it’s been a staple for me for years!
While it’s another place that’s super popular, it’s also worth it. They make their own cider donuts here, and you can also get some warm or cold cider to drink, or order an apple cider slushy if the weather is warm. The store itself is also huge, with all kinds of local goods, apparel, and gifts to shop from.
7. Taste The Cold Hollow Hard Cider, Too!
Right in the same area, you can also visit the Cold Hollow Cidery, which is a hard cider tasting room. In the same building as the tasting room, you can also visit their café, which has a great lunch menu, and offers their ciders on tap to enjoy with your meal.
The inside of the cider tasting room is so cozy and beautiful, and you can order flights to sample a few varieties. Next door is a shop with cans to-go if you want to take some home with you.
The café is a great spot for lunch, as mentioned, and you can even get their ciders here, too (including flights!). At the café, you’ll order at the register, and then find your own seating, which is both indoors and outdoors.
8. Eat ALL The Cider Donuts While You’re At It 😉
While Cold Hollow is a great spot for cider donuts, you’re going to want to try them all while you drive around Vermont, right? I mean, this is the best time of the year for these awesome little treats, so when in Rome … 🙂
Here are some great places to check out to get some of the best cider donuts in the state:
- Shelburne Orchards
- Paradise Farm Sugarhouse
- Happy Valley Orchard
- The Mill Market & Deli
- Adams Apple Orchard & Farm Market
9. Drive The Back Roads
One of the things I always encourage folks to do on their Vermont visits is to hit the back roads. Now, chances are if you’re planning to visit a few places in Vermont, you’ll be navigated through the backroads anyway. BUT, there are some really beautiful landscapes and lots of fall foliage scenery to be had off the main highways (that said, the drive along I-89 between Waterbury and Burlington is awfully gorgeous in the fall!).
I feel like whenever I’m lost in Vermont, it’s always okay because I stumble upon a beautiful farm backdropped by mountains. So, plan some time to get lost, go down a street GPS isn’t telling you to go down, and see where the day takes you. It’s not guaranteed to be spectacular, but I’m fairly confident it will be worth it ☺️
10. Explore Charming Woodstock
Another wonderful town that feels right out of a Hallmark movie set is Woodstock, and this is one destination everyone should have on their radar. Between the adorable village with shops and restaurants, nearby farms, and covered bridges, it’s such a magical place to explore – especially in the fall!
As mentioned, you’ll want to budget some time to explore the lovely village. Woodstock has some great shops, including a cute little bookstore, a great café called Mon Vert, a Vermont Flannel Company store, and a wonderful general store. I also really love Woody’s Mercantile, so be sure to pop in there, too.
A short walk from the shops in the village, and you’ll run into Middle Covered Bridge, which is just begging for you to take its picture 😉 Outside of the village, you can drive to Lincoln Covered Bridge and Taftsbury Covered Bridge.
In fact, you’ll have to cross Taftsbury Covered Bridge to get to Sugarbush Farms, which is a must during your visit to Woodstock. Sugarbush makes its own cheese and maple syrups, and has a great little tasting area for both. On-site, you’ll also find some nice walking trails, and incredible mountain views. In fact, they encourage you to bring a picnic to enjoy while you admire the gorgeous mountains!
Pro Tip For Sugarbush Farms: The dirt road to the farm is pretty bumpy, so drive slow!
11. Attend The Harvest Celebrations At Billings Farm
Also in Woodstock is the amazing Billings Farm, which is an incredible working dairy farm that’s also a museum. And what I love most about this farm is what a great job they do with community events that celebrate each season, and of course, fall is no exception.
Typically held the second weekend in October, Harvest Celebrations is the perfect time to visit the farm because in addition to the usual museum exhibits and farm demonstrations, you’ll be able to enjoy some fun fall-themed activities like pumpkin bowling, cider pressing, crafts, and live music.
12. Find Your Way Through The Great Vermont Corn Maze
Did you know that the largest corn maze in New England is in Vermont? Well, now you do! The Great Vermont Corn Maze is an awesome fall tradition that’s so fun to take part in during your visit.
Located in Danville, the maze spans over 24 acres, and is actually considered a hike through their farm because of how large it is. If you’re not up for the challenge, don’t worry – they have you covered. Visitors can choose the Scenic Maze option instead, which is a designated section within the big maze that doesn’t take quite as long to walk through.
The maze is only open through mid-October, so be sure to plan your visit before then. They also do a great job updating any weather closures on their Facebook page.
Psst! There are actually some really great corn mazes in Vermont, so be sure to check out a few during your visit!
13. Get A Maple Creemee
One of the best treats you can get in Vermont (in addition to cider donuts, of course!), is the famous maple creemee. This is basically a maple-infused soft serve ice cream, and it’s especially amazing in the fall when it coincides with all the other warm and spiced flavors of the season.
Vermont has really perfected the art of the maple creemee, especially since it’s home to the best maple syrup in the country. Here are a few places that whip up amazing maple creemees:
- Canteen Creemee Company in Waitsfield (my personal favorite!)
- Creemee Stand in Wilmington
- Woodstock Scoops in Woodstock
- Creemees Ice Cream in Burlington
- Village Creeme Stand in Bristol
14. Drive Route 100
One of the most famous fall foliage drives in all of New England is the iconic Route 100 in Vermont, which spans over 200 miles, and runs right through the middle of the state. During this drive, you’ll enjoy foliage scenery all over the place, and pass through some cute towns.
The best place to start this drive is in Wilmington, VT, and some notable places it passes through are:
- Dover
- Weston (where there’s a Vermont Country Store!)
- Ludlow
- Killington
- Warren
- Waitsfield
- Waterbury Historic Village & waterbury Center
- Stowe
- Newport
Driving the entire route from Wilmington to Newport would only take just under 3 hours without stops, so you can easily make this a day trip if you’re ambitious, or turn it into a 1-2 night adventure!
Psst! I have a post all about Must-See Places On A Vermont Route 100 Road Trip if you need more ideas!
15. Tour The Covered Bridges
One of my personal favorite things to do in Vermont is drive around to find all the covered bridges. In fact, Vermont has the most covered bridges per square mile than any other state in the U.S., so this is the best place to see them. And while I love the covered bridges in every season, there’s definitely something extra special about seeing them in the fall, backdropped by the foliage.
Tip: I created an entire post with a detailed Vermont covered bridges road trip itinerary, so be sure to find that link at the end of this section under “helpful links.”
16. Experience Enchanted Forest In Montpelier
For an extra magical experience in Vermont in the fall, you’ll want to check out the Enchanted Forest exhibit in Montpelier. This event typically takes place in mid-October, and is a guided tour through Hubbard Park with paths aglow with jack-o-lanterns, and forests filled with art exhibits in different mediums. Once you reach the tower, you’re rewarded with a special performance before making your way back to the start.
Pro Tip: This event tends to sell out pretty quickly each year, so if you have your heart set on it, you’ll want to book your tickets in advance. Click here for more info.
17. Try All The Seasonal Brews
One thing I love about fall is savoring the flavors of the season, and I love to do that with pumpkin and fall brews! Vermont is home to some absolutely amazing breweries, and many whip up special seasonal concoctions that highlight these flavors.
Some great Vermont breweries to check out are:
- Foam Brewers in Burlington
- Alchemist Beer in Stowe
- Fiddlehead Brewing in Shelburne
- Hill Farmstead Brewery in Greensboro Bend
- Zero Gravity Brewery in Burlington
18. Attend Oktoberfest On Mount Snow
Speaking of beer, a wonderful event that celebrates both brews and the fall season is the very cool Oktoberfest on Mount Snow. Typically held on the second weekend in October, this festival features a lot of really great brewers around New England, including von Trapp Brewing in Stowe, Zero Gravity in Burlington, and even Main Beer Company, which is one of my favorites from the Pine Tree State!*
During the event, you’ll also find yodeling contests, a keg toss, and a special area for the kiddos.
*Beers mentioned are examples of what’s been on draft in past years, and brews featured can vary each year. It’s best to check the event’s website before buying your ticket to ensure you’re good with the offering line-up!
19. Check Out Stowe Cidery
I mentioned Stowe Cidery earlier in the post, but it bears repeating! This is a great place for sipping on hard cider in Vermont, and they also serve up a really good food menu!
Stowe Cider does a really wonderful job with flavor profiles, and offers delicious seasonal releases. During your visit, you can also grab a flight to find which is your favorite, and they offer cans to-go to bring some home with you (which I pretty much always have to do).
In the fall, their outdoor patio is usually open (weather permitting), which is a very fun place to hang out while you try their ciders.
20. Drive Around Lake Willoughby
Lake Willoughby is simply gorgeous in the fall! And while there’s not a ton of things to do nearby, it makes for a wonderfully scenic drive during foliage season.
You can get to Lake Willoughby from Stowe in just over an hour, and then once you reach the lake, you’ll be surrounded with cliffs covered in bright oranges and reds, with the beautiful blue lake underneath.
If you wanted to make a day trip out of it, you can also visit Willoughby State Forest, which is an awesome place for hiking trails!
21. Take A Fall Foliage Hike
Speaking of great hikes, that’s definitely one of the best things to do in Vermont when foliage is at its peak! I mean, Vermont is nicknamed the Green Mountain State for a reason, so you know you’re in for some pretty amazing hiking trails. And there’s a good range of trails to explore, with everything from beginner to advanced, so you can find something for just about anyone. And honestly, most hiking trails in the fall season are pretty scenic.
Here are some of the best hikes to do in the fall in Vermont:
- Camel’s Hump Trail in Waterbury
- Owl’s Head Trail in Groton
- Prospect Rock Trail in Manchester
- Stowe Pinnacle Trail in Stowe
- Deer Leap Overlook Trail in Killington
22. Experience The Autumn On The Green Fall Festival
Remember the Great Vermont Corn Maze from earlier in the post? Well, it just so happens that the town the maze is located in is also home to an amazing fall festival. Usually taking place the first weekend in October, the Autumn on the Green Fall Festival in Danville is one of the best ones to experience in Vermont.
With over 200 vendors, ranging from local artisans and antiques, to crafters and delicious food, you’ll be able to have the perfect fall day here. And, it’s completely free to attend.
With all kinds of fall foods and activities at the forefront, like cider donuts and pumpkin-everything, you’ll also be surrounded by gorgeous fall foliage at every turn. This is one you don’t want to miss.
23. Go On A Spooky Tour
Spooky ghost tours are one of the best things to do in all of New England in the fall season, and Vermont is definitely no exception. There are wonderful tours of all kinds throughout the state, ranging from very spooky nighttime tours, to more history-focused walking tours that still have that hair-raising factor.
Here are some really awesome spooky tours to check out in Vermont this fall season:
- Stowe Lantern Tours in Stowe
- Queen City Ghostwalks in Burlington
- Saturday Night Ghost Tours in Woodstock
- Wilson Castle Haunted Paranormal Tours in Proctor
Pro Tip: Many of these tours are offered seasonally only, often through the end of October, so plan accordingly.
24. Get Some Fall-Infused Chocolates
In both the fall season and winter, one of my favorite things to do in Vermont is stock up on seasonal chocolates because there are some pretty amazing chocolatiers throughout the state. And since chocolate is easiest to travel with in the cooler months, the fall season is the perfect time of year to start stocking up!
Lake Champlain Chocolates is a bigger company that’s very popular and sold in stores around New England, and it’s definitely worth checking out. They have a great little shop near everything in Waterbury Center, and their flagship store in Burlington is also great. They release their Apple Cider Caramels around this time, and I love to pick up a box of those each year.
Here are some other great chocolate shops around Vermont to check out this fall:
- Village Peddler and Chocolatorium in Arlington
- Tavernier Chocolates in Brattleboro
- Snowflake Chocolates in Jericho
- The Chocolate Barn in Shaftsbury
- NU Chocolat in Burlington
25. Attend The Bean & Brew Fest
For a fall fest that’s a bit different, you have to checkout the Bean & Brew fest at Jay Peak Resort! Typically held in mid-October, this event is focuses on locally-roasted coffees, as well as the very best New England beers and ciders.
Backdropped by the mountains in the fall season, the event takes place right at the Stateside Base Lodge, and also features live music and lawn games.
For the 2023 event, they’re also hosting a really fun Brew Fest Dinner experience, which you can add on to your admission ticket. The dinner experience features craft beer pairings with a 6-course German-inspired meal. I hope this special dinner continues to be offered each year as well, so be sure to check their website for more info.
Pro Tip: The mountains in this region will likely be past peak foliage by the time this event takes place since it’s pretty far north, but the views are still amazing, and perfect for sipping on all these amazing craft beverages!
26. Take In The Foliage Views From Hildene
Hildene, the Lincoln family home, is one of the top attractions in Manchester, but fall is one of the best times of year to visit! Part of the Hildene experience is the incredible mountain views from the grounds of the estate, and in the fall, it’s all dripping in red and orange hues.
Hildene was the summer home of President Lincoln’s wife, Mary Todd Lincoln, and their son, Robert Todd Lincoln. And by summer home, I mean it’s pretty much a mansion 😊 The exterior is such a stunning display of Georgian Revival architecture, and the grounds and gardens are absolutely beautiful. There are actually some really nice nature trails to enjoy on the property grounds during your visit, which are especially nice in the fall.
During your visit, you can also tour in the inside to get a glimpse into what life was like in the homestead’s prime in the early 1900s.
27. Sample The Maple Syrup
I mean, you can’t come to Vermont in any season, and not taste the local maple syrup, am I right? 😉 But honestly, I much prefer these flavors in the fall and winter season, so the fall is typically when I start to make a point to visit the local sugar shacks and maple stands.
One of my favorite places to do this is at Sugarbush Farms in Woodstock, which I mentioned earlier in the post. They’re surrounded by such beautiful mountain views that are gorgeous during foliage season, and they also make their own cheeses, so it’s definitely a treat to visit!
There’s also a cute little stand just outside of the village of Stowe called Stowe Maple Products, and the family that owns it is so nice and friendly!
But there are places all over the state, and as you’re driving around, keep an eye out for cute little signs that say “Maple Syrup,” and prepare to break! That’s honestly the most fun way to sample the best syrups around Vermont.
28. Explore Charming Manchester
Manchester is such a great town to visit in the fall season, and year-round, honestly. But I personally find it extra magical in the fall. Manchester is home to some nice outlet shops, charming independent shops, wonderful restaurants, and lots of things to do outdoors to enjoy fall foliage.
As mentioned, you’ll find Hildene here in Manchester, which is reason enough to visit, of course. You’ll also want to swing into the cozy Northshire Bookstore, where you’ll find some unique gifts (and books).
Be sure to also visit Hathaway Farms in Manchester, which has a very fun corn maze in the fall season, as well as a great farm store that sells their own maple syrup.
29. Go Apple Picking, Of Course!
Vermont is also a wonderful state for apple picking, and there are some really awesome orchards to explore that offer both juicy apples, and stunning mountain views.
One of my favorites that I love to visit each year is Mad Tom Orchard, which is in Dorset, near Manchester. Once you see the house with the apple shutters, you’ll know you’ve come to the right place. Their orchards are backdropped with the Green Mountains, and they also make really good cider donuts.
Shelburne Orchards is another one of my favorites, and I love to stop by after spending my morning walk the trails at the nearby Shelburne Farm. Shelburne Orchards also makes some pretty awesome cider donuts, so be sure to stock up when you visit!
But most areas in Vermont will have some really nice orchards to explore, so keep an eye out while driving around!
30. Stroll Through Bennington
Another wonderful town for foliage and fall fun is Bennington in southern Vermont! The historic part of Bennington near the Bennington Battle Monument has some really nice foliage color, and there’s also a cute little downtown and Main Street. The downtown area is very small, but there are some nice shops and eateries to check out.
Bennington is also home to the Apple Barn Bakery & Café and Armstrong Farm, both mentioned earlier in the post. So, with all these things combined, plus some nice opportunities for antique hunting, it makes for a lovely getaway in Vermont in the fall.
31. Take In The Views From The 100-Mile Overlook
One great, lesser-known gem in southern Vermont is the amazing 100-mile overlook in Marlboro. This is a scenic area right by the Hogback Mountain Gift Shop that has a wonderful view that you can … you guessed it! … see for over 100 miles on a clear day. While this is amazing year-round, it’s especially beautiful in the fall when foliage is as its peak.
And the gift shop next door is a fun place to look around! You’ll be able to find all kinds of Vermont souvenirs inside, including apparel, foods, and lots more. While this all doesn’t take too much time to visit, if you’re exploring southern Vermont, this is definitely a place that should be on your radar.
Pro Tip: This area is less than 10 minutes from the cute town of Wilmington, which is a great place to start a Route 100 road trip!
Here are some links you may find helpful, including some detailed guides:
- Best Things To Do In Stowe, VT
- Best Things To Do In Woodstock, VT
- Best Things To Do In Waterbury, VT
- Vermont Covered Bridges Tour Itinerary
Where To Stay In Vermont In Foliage Season (Best Towns & Hotels)
I almost always suggest you stay in Stowe or Woodstock when you visit Vermont in the fall. For long weekend getaways, these two towns are perfect options because they’re only about an hour and 20 minutes from each other, so you can easily see both in a couple of days. They also offer that small-town Vermont charm you’re hoping for, and have plenty of things to do both in-town, and on the outskirts.
Even if you’re planning a longer trip through Vermont during foliage season, staying a night (or two or three!) in Stowe or Woodstock is a great idea.
Where To Stay In Stowe:
🍁 Splurge: The Lodge At Spruce Peak
🍁 Moderate: The Green Mountain Inn (right on Main Street!)
🍁 Budget: Stowe Motel & Snowdrift
Where To Stay In Woodstock:
🍁 Luxury: The Woodstock Inn & Resort (it’s called Vermont’s most beautiful address!)
🍁 Moderate/Splurge: 506 Inn On The River
🍁 Budget: Sleep Woodstock Motel
If you’re looking to have a more secluded getaway, but still stay in a cute town, I love recommending Grafton for that type of trip! Grafton is a very small town that has a wonderful inn to stay at that’s really cozy in the fall season. It’s also home to an adorable cheese shop, a great little market/café, and a recreation area with scenic nature trails. It’s within driving distance to most places in southern Vermont, including the Vermont Country Store in Rockingham, Manchester, and Bennington, so it makes a nice home base, too.
Where To Stay In Grafton:
🍁 The Grafton Inn: A gorgeous historic inn, with an even more beautiful barn. Walkable to the cheese shop and market!
A great region to also consider staying in during Vermont in the fall is the Mad River Valley, in the town of Waitsfield. This is a popular ski region in the winter, but also has wonderful foliage displays in the fall, a cute little downtown, and is accessible to many of the places mentioned in this post. It also tends to have more affordable hotels and accommodations, and has quite a few covered bridges nearby!
Where To Stay In Waitsfield:
🍁 Moderate: The Featherbed Inn
🍁 Budget/Moderate: Mad River Lodge
For southern Vermont, Manchester makes for a nice home base! While it’s a bit more commercialized with some outlet shops, it still maintains lots of charm, and has really great restaurants and independent shops. There are also some beautiful covered bridges nearby, and Manchester is home to Hildene (as mentioned earlier in the post).
Where To Stay In Manchester:
🍁 Splurge: The Kimpton Taconic
🍁 Moderate: The Palmer House & Resort
I have an entire post with even more ideas for you 🍁🍂
Click here to read my detailed guide on where to stay in Vermont in the fall season!
Best Cities To Visit In Vermont In The Fall
While most of the best places to see in Vermont in the fall are the small, quaint towns and the idyllic countryside, the cities should also be places to consider seeing during your visit!
I’ve touched on a few throughout the post, but the best cities to check out in Vermont in the fall are:
- Burlington
- Vergennes
- Montpelier
- Rutland
Burlington and Montpelier are especially exciting to visit. Burlington is home to the amazing Church Street Marketplace for shopping, a waterfront park along Lake Champlain, and amazing breweries and restaurants.
Montpelier is such a cool city that also has great shops and restaurants, and fun fall things to do like admire the foliage at Hubbard Park, walk through the Enchanted Forest (as mentioned earlier!), and visit Peck Orchard Farm in East Montpelier.
Vergennes is one of the smallest cities in the entire country, and it packs in a lot of charm! You’ll find great fall color here, as well as scenic views at Vergennes Falls Park, tasty beers at Hired Hand Brewing Co., and a great “small town” feel.
Lastly, Rutland is a nice addition to a fall itinerary! It’s got a great downtown area, wonderful places to eat, and access to outdoors activities.
What About Vermont In November?
You may be wondering if Vermont is worth visiting in November – after all, the foliage season is over this time of the year, and winter hasn’t quite arrived yet.
Personally, I love the month of November in New England. It’s become such a joy over the last few years, especially because everything is just quiet, which is a welcomed pace after an exciting foliage season, and right before a busy holiday season.
So, Vermont in November is really a personal preference. You are right between two seasons, so hotel prices are usually much more affordable, and it’ll be easier to get reservations at popular restaurants. The downside to Vermont in November is that some fall attractions like gondolas, corn mazes, etc. will be closed for the season, and all the trees will be bare, but you’ll still see leaves swirling around on the roads and sidewalks. Also, you could get snow.
Yep, snow!
Mid-November is usually when Vermont sees its first big snowfall (1 inch or more of accumulation), so you may be lookin’ at a winter trip more than a fall trip this month. It’s not likely you’ll get a big blizzard, but depending on when you plan to visit in November, snow is not off the table. It’s a bit of a gamble.
Do I personally like Vermont in November? I sure do! It’s peaceful, cozy, and still beautiful. However, it’s not for everyone.
Tips For Visiting Vermont In The Fall
→ Prepare for crowds at peak foliage season, but know it’s worth it! Fall is one of the most popular times to visit Vermont (the other is winter for skiing), so you’ll want to expect crowds at the popular attractions. The most beautiful places to see like Stowe, Woodstock, etc. are also popular, but worth braving the crowds. Don’t let this deter you from planning a fall trip.
→ Expect the highest prices & book in advance. Along with crowds, this is probably the most expensive time to visit Vermont, and it will be hard to do on a tight budget. You’ll want to make hotel and restaurant reservations in advance to make sure you get the best options for both.
→ Rain is likely, but not a sure thing. I would expect to have some on your trip, so plan accordingly. The fall season begins to bring more days of rain than the summer.
→ Weather can be all over the place, actually. In fact, weather throughout New England in the fall is a mixed bag. Some years, I’ve had warm, sunny days for most of my trip, and other years, it’s been cold and rainy. It’s best to check the weather forecast a few days before leaving, and then pack accordingly. But generally, even on warm, sunny days, you can expect chilly evenings, so you’ll definitely have a chance to wear those cozy sweaters you were hoping to bring 😉
→ Offline maps! I lose cell service all the time in Vermont, even when I’m in a town center (I have Verizon, just FYI). Before your trip, be sure to offline maps so you have a back-up if you lose service.
→ What to pack? Speaking of packing, let’s breakdown what you’ll need. Tailor this to your personal preferences, the weather forecast, and how long you plan to stay.
- Waterproof hiking boots if you plan to do any hikes.
- Hiking clothes, if needed.
- Rain boots if there’s rain in the forecast. Rain boots that look like Chelsea boots are a great option for versatility, or waterproof sneakers like Vessis.
- Sneakers or flat fall boots for walking around the towns.
- Layers, layers, layers! Since it’s likely you’ll experience both warm-ish days, and chilly days, layers are key. I usually pack long or short-sleeved t-shirts and sweaters/cardigans to wear over.
- Light jacket, hats and scarves if the weather is predicted to be chilly.
- Jeans are perfect for everyone – that’ll probably be all you’ll need for pants.
- Nice dinner outfits if you’re planning a fancy-ish dinner out, but honestly, most restaurants in Vermont are casual (even the nice ones!). If you know you’re visiting a nice restaurant where a more put-together outfit is preferable, you can get away with a cute dress and boots, or jeans and a nice top.
- Day pack for hiking or day trips.
- Reusable water bottle.
- Camera! Definitely don’t forget this! If you have a nice DSLR or Mirrorless model, this is the trip to bring it. You’ll also want extra batteries, and a large capacity memory card because it’ll be in use quite a bit.
→ Lastly, always be respectful of private property, and never put yourself or others in danger to get the perfect photo. If there’s not a safe place to pull over on the side of the road to snap a photo, then it’s not worth it. And, of course, obey any signage about private property, and use common sense. Don’t park in driveways to get a great photo. I promise that you’ll get so many amazing photos from your trip while respecting the locals, and staying safe!
What Is Vermont Known For In The Fall?
If you haven’t guessed already, Vermont is known for its spectacular foliage displays, postcard-worthy rural landscapes, scenic drives, fall farm stands, maple syrup, and mountain views in the fall season.
More Of My Vermont Travel Guides:
- Vermont In The Winter
- Vermont In The Spring
- All The Best Things To Do In Vermont
- Best Places To Stay In Vermont In The Fall
- What Is Vermont Known For? I’ll Tell You!
- Best Vermont Pumpkin Patches & Farm Stands To Visit In The Fall
- Christmas In Vermont: All The Most Festive Things To Do
More posts you may find helpful:
- The Perfect New England Fall Road Trip Itinerary
- Best Stops To Make Driving From Boston To Stowe, VT
- Exciting Things To Do In New England In The Fall
- The Best New England Souvenirs To Look For On Your Trip
- Vermont vs. New Hampshire In The Fall
- Is New England In November Worth Visiting?
- Thanksgiving In New England: Cozy Getaway Ideas & Things To Do!
That’s A Wrap On Best Things To Do In Vermont In The Fall
And there you have it! Now that you’re a seasoned pro on all the best things to do in Vermont in the fall, you’re ready to plan the perfect foliage getaway. Whether it’s a visit to Stowe or Woodstock for the quintessential Vermont village experience, or an epic road trip along Route 100, one thing’s absolutely sure – it’s going to your most memorable fall trip yet!
