stowe places to visit

New England Wanderlust

Fall , Spring , Summer , Vermont , Winter  ·  August 16, 2022

30 Best Things To Do In Stowe, VT In Every Season (2024)

Known as one of the best places to visit in New England for fall foliage, Stowe also happens to be a wonderfully quaint and charming town in Vermont to visit year-round.

Located in northern part of the state, Stowe feels a lot like a postcard, and you’ll find covered bridges, a wonderful little Main Street, scenic walking trails, and awesome hiking. If you’re planning a visit and you’re wondering what the best things to do in Stowe, Vermont are, you’ve come to the right place! As someone’s who’s been countless times in different seasons, I’m thrilled to share with you my suggestions on the best way to fill your itinerary.

Ready to start planning? Let’s go!

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Is Stowe, VT Worth Visiting?

Stowe is most definitely worth visiting, and is one of my favorite small towns in Vermont to escape to when I’m looking for a fun getaway in the New England countryside. One of the best things about Stowe is that there are tons of year-round, outdoor activities for all different types of travelers, as well as an adorable little Main Street, beautiful walking paths, one of my favorite general stores of all time and amazing restaurants.

Best Things To Do In Stowe Year-Round (2022)

There are a lot of things to do in Stowe, VT that are great all year round, and below is a list of my favorite activities that fit into all seasons. Stay tuned later in the post for seasonal-specific things to do!

1. Visit Stowe Mercantile & Explore Main Street

Stowe has a small but lovely Main Street with really great shops, eateries, and even access to the scenic recreation path (but more on that later). Be sure to spend some time meandering through the storefronts because chances are, you’ll find a few things you can’t leave without.

My favorite store on Main Street is the Stowe Mercantile , and this is one of my all-time favorite general stores in New England (which is saying a lot because there are a lot of them in this region!).

What I love about the Stowe Mercantile is that they have it all, like a true general store should, and I never leave empty handed. You’ll find everything from penny candy (which costs a bit more than a penny nowadays, but it’s the same idea), to locally made products and foods, to apparel, to pretty well, anything else you can think of. And it’s complete with creaky floors and cute displays.

During your stroll around Main Street, be sure to visit the Giles W. Dewey covered bridge right in the village (it goes over the river at the Mountain Road and Main Street intersection – you can’t miss it!).

2. Pick Up Some Locally-Made Handcrafted Chocolates

Located on Main Street, Lake Champlain Chocolates is a Vermont-based company with its flagship shop in Burlington. But this cute little location is filled with character and all the delicious creations their known for.

Using premium ingredients, they create both seasonal flavors and perfect staples, so you’re sure to find tons of thing you’ll want to try and take home. They also make great gifts!

Note : The Stowe Lake Champlain location was Laughing Moon Chocolates until November 2023.

3. Tour The Ben & Jerry’s Ice Cream Factory

If you’re in town for longer than a day, one of the more fun activities in Stowe, VT is take a little side excursion to the Ben & Jerry’s factory. A short 15-minute drive from downtown Stowe will bring you to the nearby town of Waterbury, where you can visit this famous ice cream factory, tour their facilities, and even sample some of the ice cream.

During your visit, I definitely recommend walking to their flavor graveyard, which is just a few minutes from their main building. This is a cute little spot where discontinued flavors have been given a tombstone, and if you’ve been a fan of this ice cream for a while, it could be a really fun walk down memory lane.

On-site, there’s also a scoop shop and gift shop. Grab a cone of your favorite flavor from the scoop shop (they sometimes have exclusive flavors here to try, too) or get a Vermonster sundae (when in Rome, right?). In their gift shop, I actually suggest buying their ice cream pint koozies, which I’ve used for years since my first Ben & Jerry’s factory visit about 10 years ago. They’re amazing for keeping your hands from freezing while you eat from any pint of ice cream!

4. Spend An Afternoon In Burlington

If you’re in the area for a few days, then definitely consider taking a drive to Burlington, one of the state’s best and most fun cities to explore. Burlington is only a 45-minute drive from Stowe, and makes for a great afternoon trip.

Some of the most fun things to do in Burlington, VT on a day trip are to walk the waterfront path along Lake Champlain, sample some of the locally-made beers at the breweries, take a stroll through the arts district, grab some awesome pizza at the cozy American Flatbread, and stroll through the shops at Church Street Marketplace.

If you’ve got some extra time, another great thing to do in the area is head over to the Lake Champlain Chocolates flagship store. Here, you’ll be able to buy pretty much every kind of chocolate they make, as well as watch videos of factory tours, and sample some of their creations.

5. Sample Locally Made Spirits

One of the best ways to spend an afternoon in Stowe, VT is to taste some of the locally-made spirits, and there are two places that are perfect for that nearby: Green Mountain Distillers in Morristown (10 mins from Stowe), and Smuggler’s Notch Distilling in Waterbury (15 mins from Stowe, and also in the same town as the Ben & Jerry’s factory).

Green Mountain Distillers has been distilling small-batch spirits since 2002, and makes gin, vodka, and their special Maple Liqueur. They offer tastings Thursdays through Sundays, and you just need to reach out to them via e-mail on their website to schedule one.

Smuggler’s Notch Distillers is an award-winning distillery with a focus on craft spirits. They also offer tastings every day of the week, and they usually have fun seasonal cocktails you can try while there, too. Their tasting room in Waterbury is really beautiful, and you can also buy their full-sized bottles during your visit to take home with you.

6. Take A Day Trip To Woodstock & Quechee

While Stowe is an amazing town to visit, another equally beautiful town in Vermont to see is Woodstock, as well as Quechee, which is very close to Woodstock. If you’re in town for more than a day or two, one of the best day trips to take near Stowe is to experience everything these two towns have to offer. The drive here will be about an hour and 20 minutes, but it’s well worth it.

In Woodstock, you’ll find charming streets, a wonderful town green and town center with awesome shops and restaurants and a gorgeous covered bridge. Just a few minutes away from Woodstock is Quechee, and this town is home to the Simon Pearce flagship store, as well as an awesome little area at the Antiques Mall plaza where you can pick up some great gifts and sample local wines and spirits.

7. Take A Scenic Walk On The Recreation Path

The Recreation Path is one of my personal favorite things to do in Stowe, VT. It can be accessed all throughout town, including Main Street, which means it’s easy to get to. And once you’re on the path, you’ll have over 5 miles of paved walkways to enjoy scenic views. This path starts in the village, and goes all the way to Top Notch Resort (which is a fun bonus if you happen to be staying at the resort).

But to enjoy the scenic views, you don’t have to walk far on the path unless you want to. I always start in the village, and then walk about a mile on the path before turning around to head back to the village, and that will be a really fun way to enjoy the views. I’ve also walked the whole thing, and it’s definitely worth it, but you can also walk smaller sections if you’re short on time.

8. Try The Local Beer

There are a few breweries in town, and another way to spend a beautiful afternoon in Stowe is to sample the local beer. My two favorites are Alchemist Beer and Idletyme Brewing.

Both of these breweries are just about a mile from the village center, so the locations are really convenient, and they both have beautiful tasting rooms, beer gardens and food served on-site. Alchemist has more of a focus on small-bites and snacks available, and they allow you to bring your own food for outdoor seating if you’re looking for a full meal. Idletyme has a full menu with delicious food for both lunch and dinner.

9. Go Cheese Tasting At The Cabot Cheese Farmer’s Store

Sampling fresh cheeses at the Cabot Cheese Farmer’s Store is definitely one of the more fun places to visit in Stowe, VT! This location can be found in Waterbury, and often has samples of their cheeses out for you to try before buying.

In addition to sampling and shopping for cheese while here, you can shop for locals beers, ciders and wines, gifts, specialty foods and so much more. You can also easily combine this with a trip to the Ben & Jerry’s factory and Cold Hollow Cider Mill (later in the post under the fall section).

10. Hop On The SkyRide Gondola

One of the most exciting attractions in Stowe, VT is the SkyRide Gondola, which takes you to the top of Vermont’s highest mountain, Mount Mansfield. The views from the top of the mountain are, as I’m sure you’ve guessed, absolutely breathtaking. You can, of course, hike up the mountain, too, but the gondola is much more relaxing.

Once you’re at the top, you’ll have access to some really awesome hiking trails, a gift shop, as well as two restaurants for a unique dining experience.

Pro Tip : One of the restaurants at the summit is The Waffle, which makes for a really fun treat to enjoy while you’re taking in the views.

11. Taste Locally-Made Hard Cider

Stowe Cider is always one of the best ways to spend a few hours Stowe! While you can find their hard ciders in a lot of places around New England, as well as the country, it’s definitely the most fun to visit their taproom in town. They have both indoor and outdoor seating, and often have food trucks on-site serving up some awesome food. The taproom also typically has a few exclusives on their menu of ciders you can’t get anywhere else, which is always a treat.

At the taproom, you can also get cider flights so you can try a few different varieties, and decide which is your favorite. You’ll also be able to order ciders by the glass, as well as get some cans to take back with you.

Best Summer Activities In Stowe, VT (2022)

While fall and winter are typically the most popular times to visit, the summer months offer a lot of really fun activities in that are best to tackle during the warmer days of the year. Below is my list of the best things to do in the summer.

12. Visit Moss Glenn Falls

Only a 5-minute drive from the village is Moss Glenn Falls, which is a beautiful waterfall that’s over 120 feet high. While you can also hike to this waterfall year-round, I think summer is the best season to do it because much of the walk is in a wooded area that’s shaded, which will provide a break from the hot sun during summer days.

The hike to the waterfall is actually pretty easy and short, making this a stop you can do in an hour or less, even at a slow pace. There’s also an option to make it a 5-mile loop hike by adding on the Vast 100 trail. The walk to the waterfall is very pretty and scenic, and you’ll cross a cute little wooden bridge and boardwalks, which make for nice photo opps, and then, of course, the actual waterfall is stunning.

13. Try Your Hand At Disc Golf

Disc Golf isn’t something that you can play just anywhere, but here in Stowe, you can visit Smugglers Notch Disc Golf & Outdoor Center, which is about 30 minutes outside of the village. The courses here have been ranked in the top 15 in the entire world, so you’re definitely in the right place if you’re looking to give it a shot.

Disc golf is a combination of frisbee and golf. Instead of hitting a ball with club, you’re using a disc that’s much like a frisbee (but a little different), and trying to get it to land in an elevated metal basket.

Never played disc golf but are interesting in trying? No problem! The course has a beginner lesson, which includes 3 disc rentals, and use of the beginner course once the lesson is over to practice your new skills.

14. Go On A Ziplining Adventure

One of the most thrilling things to do in Stowe, VT is to go zip lining! ArborTrek Canopy Adventures offers not just zip lining, but also climbing and obstacle courses, so there’s a little something here for all ages and preferences. Although, the Zip Line Canopy Tour is definitely worth it, and caters to both beginners and experienced zip liners.

ArborTrek Canopy Adventures is about 30 minutes from Stowe, and located the Smugglers Notch area. It was also named one of the best zip line courses in the entire country by USA Today , so if you’ve ever wanted to go zip lining, this is an awesome place to try it.

15. Hit The Trails At Smugglers Notch State Park

You’ve heard me mention Smugglers Notch quite a bit in this post already, but it’s definitely one of the best places to visit in Stowe in the summer. While it’s also great to visit in the fall for foliage season, the hiking trails inside the park are really popular in the summer, and provide amazing views.

Inside the park, you’ll find miles of trails that range from easy to challenging, and you can even hike to another waterfall here. For an easy and short hike, take the Bingham Waterfall Trail, which is only 1-mile round-trip, and takes you to a nice little waterfall.

16. Float Down The River In An Inner Tube

One of the most refreshing summer activities in Stowe, VT is to head out to Winooski River and spend the afternoon just floating along the water in an inner tube. Umiak Outdoor Outfitters makes it really easy for visitors to plan a day floating on the river because they rent out inner tubes, as well as offer shuttles out to the river (in case your tubes don’t fit in your car, which is likely).

If you’re looking for something a little more adventurous, but also still relaxing, they also offer paddle board and kayak rentals, and do tours in the area to the best spots for scenic cruises. They can also provide a list of suggestions if you’re looking to do a self-guided tour after renting equipment.

17. Experience The Stowe Balloon Festival In July

If you happen to visit during the moth of July, definitely consider the Stowe Balloon Festival, which takes place around the beginning of the month each year.

Visitors can enjoy watching the launch of over 20 balloons at sunrise and sunset during the festival, and can pre-book rides in the balloons at different price points. During the festival, you’ll also find beer, wine and drink tents, children’s activities, live music and lots more.

Things To Do In Stowe, VT In The Fall (2022)

If I had to pick one season to visit Stowe, VT in, it would be fall. I honestly really do love it in all seasons, but there’s something extra special about any Vermont town in the fall, including Stowe. Here are some especially festive fall activities I suggest if you visit during foliage season.

18. Take A Scenic Foliage Drive Through Smugglers Notch

Fall is the best time to take the twisty-turny drive through the incredibly scenic and fun Smugglers Notch. The road that goes through the park is free to drive on for everyone (no need to buy a park pass unless you plan to explore the actual state park), and connects the towns of Stowe and Cambridge, VT. During the fall season, it’ll be completely ablaze with color.

You’ll actually drive this route to get to the SkyRide Gondola, which is at the halfway point on this road. So definitely be sure to drive the whole thing if you stop for a gondola ride because it’s absolutely worth it.

Pro Tip : One thing to be aware of is that there are some hairpin turns on this route, so be sure to drive slow in these sections, and stop to make sure there’s enough clearance in case of on-coming traffic.

19. Experience Stowe At Night Lantern Tours

One of the most spooky activities in Stowe, VT is go on a night time lantern tour with Stowe Lantern Tours . This is especially fun to do during the month of October because you’ll hear stories of the resident ghosts of the town, as well as learn a lot about the local history. This is a walking tour, but will work for most people as it’s only about a half-mile long. And at only $12 per person*, it’s a great deal for some extra goosebumps during this time of the year!

*Pricing as of 2022.

20. Find Your Way Through A Corn Maze

Only about a 10-minute drive outside of the village (and close to both Idletyme and Alchemist Breweries!), you’ll find an awesome corn maze at Percy Farm, which is definitely one of the most fun activities in Stowe, VT in the fall. This is also located just off the Recreation Path, which means you could combine it with a long walk on the path from town.

The corn maze takes about 30-40 minutes to complete, and leashed pets are also welcome. You’re also able to pay for your admission with Venmo, making it very convenient to visit.

There are actually quite a few awesome corn mazes throughout Vermont , so be sure to keep a lookout during your visit if you’re around in the late summer, or early fall!

21. Visit The Haunted Covered Bridge

Recognized by Conde Nast Traveler as one of the most haunted places in the U.S., another one of the most spooky things to do in Stowe, VT is visit Emily’s Bridge, also known as Gold Brook Covered Bridge. Not only is it a beautiful New England-style covered bridge that surrounded by foliage in the fall, it has a spooky past that’ll definitely give you chills.

The bridge was built in 1844, and the story goes that just after the bridge was built, a girl named Emily and her boyfriend planned to meet at the bridge to elope. But when he didn’t show up, she was so devastated that she hung herself from the rafters of the bridge.

Since then, there have been countless stories and recollections of Emily’s ghost, now full of anger and vengeance, leaving scratches and claw marks on cars and pedestrians who cross the bridge. There’s never been any proof that anyone actually died here at the bridge, but since the story dates back to the mid 1800s, it’s possible there wouldn’t be any documentation.

Whether you believe in ghosts or not, knowing the story is sure to at least give you pause before crossing the bridge! Personally, I’ve never been able to decide if I believe in ghosts and paranormal activity, but I can tell you, my heart beats a little faster every time I visit Emily’s Bridge.

22. Get Some Cider & Donuts At Cold Hollow Cider Mill

A more tame and festive thing to do in Stowe, VT in the fall is visit Cold Hollow Cider Mill , which is located in Waterbury, making this easy to combine with a trip to Ben & Jerry’s, Cabot Farmer’s Store and Smuggler’s Notch Distillery. Here you’ll find an amazing country store that sells all kinds of products, foods and gifts, but also freshly-made cider donuts and cold and hot cider to drink.

Cold Hollow also has a restaurant and hard cidery across the way from their general store, so this is a place where you’ll want to budget a few hours to have lunch and do a hard cider tasting, too.

Cold Hollow is one of those places that’s extremely popular in the fall season, but absolutely worth the visit. You’ll be able to see the donuts getting made inside, and both the donuts and cider are really delicious! It’s not quite a trip to Stowe in the fall season until I’ve been to Cold Hollow.

23. Pick Apples To Bring Home

Just outside of the village, you’ll find tons of place to pick your own fresh apples, which is such a fun way to spend a fall afternoon in Stowe (especially if you’re able to bring a bunch home with you to bake some delicious treats).

Some of the orchards are about 30 minutes outside of Stowe, and some of them are closer to an hour away, and further out in the countryside. But any orchard you pick will make for a perfect fall afternoon.

24. Take A Drive On The Back Roads

Stowe is packed with incredible landscapes backdropped by the scenic mountain vistas. One of the best things to in the fall season to admire the foliage is to hit the back roads! You’ll venture out on some of these to visit Emily’s Bridge, but I suggest just taking your time and seeing what you can find on your own.

Here’s a hint to get you started: one of the coolest barn landscapes in the fall is Grandview Farm, which is close to Emily’s Bridge.

Best Winter Activities In Stowe, VT (2022)

Winter is one of the most popular seasons to visit Stowe because of its ski resorts and, of course, the slopes on Mount Mansfield. Even if you’re not a skier, Stowe in the winter is still a truly magical place to visit in the winter. I highly recommend splurging to stay at one of the resorts if you visit in the winter because of all the amazing amenities that are particularly lovely this time of the year. But more on that later in the post. Here are my suggestions on all the best things to do in Stowe, VT in the winter!

25. Go Dog Sledding Through The Woods

If a winter dog sledding adventure has been on your bucket list, one of the best winter activities in Stowe, VT this time of the year is a dog sledding tour with Eden Ethical Dog Sledding Adventures. Eden is one of the only chain-free dog sledding tour operators in North America, and ethical treatment of the dogs should be everyone’s priority. This is a great tour that you can feel good about!

Eden offers different packages and tours depending on your preferences, and all of them include quality time with the dogs, making this a memorable experience.

26. Take A Snow Tubing Tour

If you’re not a skiier and are looking to still have fun in the snow (or maybe you are a skiier, but want to try something that’s a little different), one of the best things to do in Stowe, VT in the winter is to go snow tubing.

Umiak Outdoor Outfitters (mentioned earlier in this post for inner tube tours along the river!), also offers winter tours, and the most fun option is the snowshoeing and tubing tour. This is a guided showshoe tour through the woods that ends at a special snow tubing destination. You’ll snowshoe up the hill, and sled down, feeling like a kid again in the process.

For a more relaxed snow tubing experience, they also offer an option in Waitsfield (about a 40-minute drive from Stowe), with tubing down a private hill at the 1824 House Inn, and a cozy fireside lunch is provided after.

27. Go Ice Skating At Spruce Peak Village

Open to the public is the really fun outdoor ice skating rink at Spruce Peak Resort & Village, and this is definitely one of the best attractions in Stowe, VT in the winter! Spruce Peak Resort is mentioned a little later in this post as one of the best ski and winter resorts in town, but you don’t have to be a guest of the resort to skate at their rink.

Open both during the day and at night, the rink is perfectly back-dropped by Vermont’s snow-covered mountains, and at night, it’s aglow with twinkle lights for an even more magical experience. Skate rentals are also available for an additional fee.

28. Hit The Slopes, Of Course!

This is one of the best places to ski in Vermont, so of course, hitting the slopes should definitely be on your list of winter activities in Stowe, VT. Mount Mansfield is the best place for skiing, and since it’s the tallest mountain in Vermont, you know you’re in for a fun day.

This is a great place for both beginners and advanced skiiers, and ski rental equipment is also available at the mountain if you don’t have your own. Ski and snowboard lessons are also available if you’ve never been skiing before, or are in need of a quick refresher.

Best Ski Resorts In Stowe, VT

Now that I’ve covered all the best things to do in Stowe, VT in the winter, the ultimate winter experience in Stowe is a stay at one of the resorts. Stowe has quite a few resorts that are amazing in the winter season, but two are especially incredible, and worth the cost of the overnight stay.

The Lodge at Spruce Peak is the best choice if you’re looking for a true ski-in, ski-out experience, as the resort is right at the base of the mountain’s ski area. This is also the only resort in Stowe that offers this amenity.

But even if you’re not looking to hit the slopes, there are so many other amazing features to Spruce Peak that make it the ultimate winter getaway in Vermont, including a spa, great on-site restaurants, the ice rink as mentioned above, a shopping village, sleigh rides, a heated pool that’s open in the winter and several accommodation types, including luxury treehouse stays.

Click here to check out the Lodge at Spruce Peak

The Trapp Family Lodg e is another amazing choice when planning where to stay in Stowe. This cozy Austrian-inspired resort also has everything you need for a wonderful winter getaway, and is also home to the country’s first cross-country ski center.

Additional amenities at this resort include winter activity lessons and rentals, a brewery, great restaurants, tastings at their very own wine cellar, a massage sanctuary, campfires and s’mores and an outdoor hot tub.

Click here to check out the Trapp Family Lodge

Romantic Things To Do In Stowe, VT

If you’re looking for activities and sun ideas in Stowe, VT for a romantic getaway, pretty much anything on this list will fit the bill. However, here are two extra special suggestions to up the romance factor.

29. Stay Overnight In A Jacuzzi Room At Green Mountain Inn

The Green Mountain Inn is a cozy, New England style inn that’s located right in the heart of Stowe’s village, and many rooms here offer fireside jacuzzis. The inn also has two firepits for cuddling by the fire outside, and also offers a year-round heated pool and an outdoor, in-ground jacuzzi for moonlight soaks.

Click here to book your romantic stay at the Green Mountain Inn!

30. Spend The Afternoon At The Stoweflake Spa

The Stoweflake Mountain Resort is home to the Stoweflake Spa, which is a really great way to spend a romantic afternoon in Stowe. The spa has a wonderful selection of day packages specifically for couples, and one option, the Couple’s Retreat package, includes a private aromatherapy bath for two, followed by a side-by-side candlelit massage.

Free Things To Do In Stowe, VT

Because of the variety of things to do in Stowe, there are also some really great free options. Here’s a list of the free things to you can do during your visit.

• Walk the Recreation Path.
• Stroll through Main Street and the covered bridge.
• Take a drive to Burlington to wander for the day.
• Visit Emily’s Bridge.
• Take a scenic drive through Smuggler’s Notch.
• Hike to Moss Glenn Falls.
• Drive to Woodstock and Quechee.
• Visit the flavor graveyard at the Ben & Jerry’s factory.

How To Spend A Day In Stowe, VT

If you’re in town just for the day, you’re in for a perfect Vermont afternoon! Here’s how I suggest you plan to spend a day in Stowe, VT:

Morning : Start by stopping at Emily’s Bridge on your way in (if you dare!), and then take the short hike to sunset rock for amazing views of the town. Then make your way to the village to park, and explore Main Street, and the Recreation Path to get familiar with the beautiful Stowe views and landscapes.

Afternoon : Grab lunch at the the Cafe on Main for some great sandwiches, soups and salads ( expert tip : they do online ordering which is great if you’re short on time, and be sure to add a brownie to your order!). Then drive through Smuggler’s Notch, and end at the SkyRide Gondola to ride up to the highest peak in Vermont. If time allows after that, you could head to Waterbury to visit Cold Hollow Cider Mill, Ben & Jerry’s and Smuggler’s Notch Distillery.

Late Afternoon-Evening : Depending on time and interest, you can visit one of the local distilleries or Stowe Cider if you haven’t already for a pre-dinner drink, and then head back into town to have dinner at one of the awesome restaurants to end your day.

Best Places To Stay In Stowe, VT

Lodge At Spruce Peak : I know, I know, I already mentioned this resort earlier in the post, but it bears repeating. Year-round, this resort offers incredible mountain views from the property, as well as awesome amenities like a spa, shopping village, and dining.

Field Guide Lodge is one of my favorite Stowe hotels. I love the modern and whimsical decor, and the location is only a 10-minute walk to the heart of town. There’s a complimentary breakfast included in the room rate, as well as a seasonal outdoor pool. Some rooms also come with a balcony.

Click here to check out the Field Guide Lodge

Stowe Motel & Snowdrift is a great budget-friendly option. Located a quick 5-minute drive from town center, this basic but clean and comfortable motel also has a seasonal outdoor pool and some efficiency kitchen rooms to cook your own meals.

Click here to check out the Stowe Motel & Snowdrift!

Best Restaurants In Stowe, VT

There are so many wonderful places to eat in Stowe, and if you’re feeling overwhelmed, here are my suggestions for the best restaurants in Stowe, VT.

Idletyme Brewing – I’ve already mentioned them earlier in the post, but honestly, their food is really good! If you’re looking for a casual place with pub-style food offerings that are fresh and delicious, as well as really great beer, this is an excellent choice.

The Bistro at 10 Acres : Amazing food, and an equally great outdoor patio area with incredible views of the Vermont countryside and mountains. They have a cozy little bar, too, that makes great drinks. Tip: for only $10, you can buy a round of drinks for the kitchen staff to show your appreciation!

Café On Main: My go-to lunch stop right in the village by the Stowe Mercantile. They have really amazing salads and sandwiches, and I always have to get a cookie or brownie when I come here. They also offer online ordering if you’re short on time, or want to skip the line (they tend to get pretty busy at peak times). Also, they have tons of flavor shots and can make really fun lattes and hot cocoas!

Piecasso Pizzeria & Lounge : Sometimes you just need a really good pizza, and Piecasso delivers on that front. They’ve been serving up the same Sicilian-influenced pizza recipe for he last 50 years, so you know it’s going to be good. They also have an awesome wine list and really good cocktails.

Butler’s Pantry : A hearty Vermont breakfast is an experience you have to have during your visit, and Butler’s Pantry serves up the best in town. Amazing pancakes, local maple syrups, delicious french toast and wonderful omelettes are a few things you can find on their menu. They also make a really nice acai bowl if you’re looking for a healthier option.

How To Get To Stowe, VT

The only airport in Stowe services mostly private charters and flights, so most people choose to fly into Burlington, VT, which is the closest international airport to Stowe, and only 45 minutes away.

Another option for cheaper flights would be to fly into Boston’s Logan International Airport, which is about 3 hours and 15 minutes from Stowe, and then take a mini road trip through New England and Vermont before arriving in Stowe.

You could choose a similar option and fly into the NYC-area airports (JFK International Airport, LaGuardia International Airport or Newark International Airport), and take a 5.5 to 6-hour road trip from NYC through Upstate New York, New England and Vermont before arriving in Stowe (there are different routes available for this option, including drives through Connecticut, Upstate NY, Massachusetts and New Hampshire, depending on how much time you have and what you’re interested in seeing).

How To Get Around Stowe

The best way to explore Stowe is by car, especially because some of the top sites are a 15-30 minute drive from the village. New England in general typically requires a car to visit because so much of it is rural, and Stowe, VT is no exception. Upon arrival at the airport, I suggest renting a car for your entire trip, which will give you the most flexibility.

Best Time Of The Year To Visit Stowe, VT

The best time of the year to visit Stowe is in the fall for foliage season, and winter for ski season, but honestly, any time of the year in this great little town is wonderful. Stowe is also one of the most magical places in Vermont at Christmas , as the town does a wonderful Traditional Christmas celebration!

And since the best time of year to visit Vermont in general is fall, Stowe is no exception, and the town is even more picturesque with fall color bursting at every turn.

In the winter, there’s something really amazing about seeing the towns landscapes covered in a blanket of fresh snow, and Stowe Mountain is one of the top ski resorts in the northeast.

How Many Days Do I Need In Stowe, VT?

The great thing about Stowe is that it’s small enough that it makes for a great day trip, and there’s so much to do that you could easily spend a weekend here, or even more. I would say 2 nights hits the sweet spot for a stay in Stowe, which would allow you visit the local sites without feeling rushed. However, if all you have is a day, that’s great, too!

If you’re coming to Stowe in the winter, I usually suggest a weekend stay or longer, so 3 days or more, just because weather can be unpredictable and slow things down a bit. Plus, if your primary reason is to come to ski, you’ll want to extra time to hit the slopes and have plenty of cozy, apres ski evenings.

Something really great about Stowe is that you can also easily combine it with a trip to the White Mountains region of New Hampshire, as it’s only about 1.5 hours to some of the best towns there. If you’re looking to plan a pretty epic fall or winter New England trip, I suggest tacking on a few days in the White Mountains, too. Here are some posts to help you get started:

• Things To Do in Franconia, NH
• Things To Do In Littleton, NH
• Things To Do in Lincoln, NH

What Is Stowe, VT Known For?

Stowe, VT is most known for being a winter ski destination, and has even been named Ski Capitol of the East. Skiing has been a prominent attraction in the area since 1933, when the state’s first trails were formed.

Stowe is also known for being one of the most beautiful towns in Vermont to visit because of the beautiful countryside views and distinguished church steeple that is highly photographed and widely-featured in the media.

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
• Things To Do In Woodstock, VT
• Best Places To Stay In Vermont In The Fall
• What Is Vermont Known For? I’ll Tell You!
• Vermont Covered Bridge Road Trip Itinerary
• Best Vermont Pumpkin Patches & Farm Stands To Visit In The Fall
• Best Things To Do In Waterbury, VT
• Awesome Corn Mazes In Vermont

You may also enjoy:

• Best Day Trips In New England
• Best Winter Getaways In New England
• 7 Day New England Road Trip Itinerary

That’s A Wrap On The Best Things To Do In Stowe, VT

And there you have it! All the very best things to do in Stowe, VT. Regardless of the time of year you visit, this little town is absolutely worth a stop during your travels in Vermont, and if you’re looking for the perfect fall foliage getaway, or ski vacation, you’ve absolutely found one of the best places to visit in Vermont.

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Stowe, VT   Travel Guide

13 Best Things To Do in Stowe, VT

Updated July 12, 2023

Stowe is a year-round, outdoorsy destination. Hiking, mountain biking and rock climbing are the spring and summer's main activities. Must-visit trails include Stowe Recreation Path and those found at Moss Glen Falls . Autumn brings great leaf

• All Things To Do

Stowe Mountain Resort Stowe Mountain Resort free

It might not be the biggest ski resort around, but Stowe Mountain Resort is still the place to go for skiers and snowboarders in northern Vermont. Why? The resort offers a wide variety of trails, from double-black diamonds on Mt. Mansfield's "Fourrunner Quad" to the beginner terrain at the base of Spruce Peak. There are also trails for cross-country skiing and snowshoeing at Stowe Mountain Resort's Cross Country Ski Center. And in the warmer months, the resort converts its skiing trails to hiking paths. Other warm-weather activities include gondola rides, rock climbing, zip lining and aerial ropes courses.

Many recent travelers enjoyed their time at this resort. However, some warned that roads and parking lots tend to get congested, so consider arriving early or staying at the property to avoid transit headaches. Another downside: the expensive lift tickets. When purchased on the mountain, passes cost a premium, reaching nearly $200 during peak season. To save some cash, purchase your tickets on Stowe Mountain Resort's website at least seven days before arriving.

Trapp Family Lodge Trapp Family Lodge free

As avid fans of "The Sound of Music" already know, the real von Trapp family was a musical troupe that toured the world after their escape from Salzburg , Austria, in 1938. As the family business became lucrative, the von Trapps purchased a small farmhouse in Stowe and settled down to live amid the mountains yet again. Over time, the farmhouse grew into a large resort with cross-country ski trails, mountain biking paths, tennis courts and more.

The now expansive lodge mainly serves as a ski retreat, but the property's hiking trails and horse-drawn carriage rides are equally popular. "The Sound of Music" fans and von Trapp aficionados recommend partaking in a history tour of the lodge to get an overview of the family's history.

Stowe Recreation Path Stowe Recreation Path free

If you love exploring the great outdoors, then odds are you'll enjoy Stowe Recreation Path. This 5.3-mile greenway weaves its way between Stowe Village and Topnotch Resort . Motorized vehicles are not permitted here, so you can walk, run, bike, snowshoe, cross-country ski or rollerblade freely along the path.

No matter which season you visit, prior travelers said you'll appreciate Stowe Recreation Path's relaxed, scenic setting. An array of shops and farms also sit nearby, giving you plenty of opportunities to take a quick break. What's more, you won't have to spend any money to visit this picturesque attraction.

Mount Mansfield Mount Mansfield

Mount Mansfield is the highest mountain in Vermont and one of two places in the state where visitors can experience arctic tundra. There are many skiing and hiking trails along the mountain, which is part of Stowe Mountain Resort . One of the easiest hikes is a 2.5 mile out-and-back route from the Toll Road. It offers excellent views. Sunset Ridge Trail is about 6.5 miles out and back, and popular for its exceptional views. However, it is quite exposed and not recommended during bad weather or wind. The mountain becomes very snowy during the winter and those hiking above the tree line may experience whiteout conditions. Care and winter hiking experience is recommended if ascending the upper portions of the mountain during winter.

Recent visitors praised the spectacular Auto Toll Road (open in the warmer months) as well as the gondola ride that operates during the winter. Travelers loved the views and diverse array of hikes for all fitness levels. Some recommended arriving early to avoid crowding at the mountain peak.

Smugglers' Notch State Park Smugglers' Notch State Park

Smugglers' Notch State Park earned its unique name during the 19th and early 20th centuries when its towering cliffs aided illegal trade between the United States and Canada. Goods were transported through the park's narrow pass – now a toll road – which is lined with 1,000-foot cliffs.

Although the pass is certainly a highlight, recent visitors attest to the beauty of other natural sights like Sterling Pond and Bingham Fall – both great spots for a quick dip. If you'd like to camp, you can reserve a spot at one of 20 campsites online at the official Vermont State Parks  website . From the campground, you can easily reach hiking trails with varying degrees of difficulty.

Moss Glen Falls Moss Glen Falls free

Tucked within eastern Stowe next to C.C. Putnam State Forest, Moss Glen Falls features a series of cascading waterfalls. To access these falls, you'll need to hike along the Moss Glen Falls Trail, which spans about 4 miles total. The actual Moss Glen Falls is only a quarter mile from the trailhead. Follow the trail to the right and you'll reach the base of the falls. Walk up instead of right and you'll eventually find yourself at an upper falls vantage point.

According to prior visitors, days with little to no snow and ice are the best times to hike here. Winter's conditions increase the chance of sliding, which can make hiking the higher part of the path extremely challenging. If you're not confident in your fitness abilities, stick to the mostly flat lower section. Wear appropriate hiking shoes with strong traction. Also, stay alert when driving to the falls since the attraction's small parking lot can be hard to spot.

Ben & Jerry's Waterbury Factory Ben & Jerry's Waterbury Factory

Ben & Jerry's Waterbury Factory churns out delicious Chunky Monkey, Phish Food and other ice cream flavors in the nearby town of Waterbury, Vermont. Visitors are typically invited to watch the sweet treat being made on a factory tour, which includes a free sample. Currently factors tours and the gift shop are closed. However the Scoop Shop is open daily for those wishing to purchase ice cream.

Reviews of the brief tour are mixed. Some recent visitors felt that the whole experience was a bit lackluster and overrated, while others deemed this activity a must-see when visiting Stowe. Also, expect crowds year-round.

Bolton Valley Resort Bolton Valley Resort

Bolton Valley Resort is nestled high in the Green Mountains. Its surrounding acreage boasts 71 trails and glades for Alpine skiing and additional Nordic and backcountry trails. From beginner to double black diamond hills, there is a route for every skier. The family-focused resort also offers an array of other activities, from snowshoeing and heated pools in the winter to disc golf, mountain biking, hiking and summer camps in the warmer months.

Recent visitors praised Bolton Valley Resort for its lack of lift lines and friendly environment for learning to ski. Athletes who took lessons appreciated their instructors' patience and knowledge. However, some visitors said that the resort would benefit from updated facilities and improved customer service.

ArborTrek Canopy Adventures ArborTrek Canopy Adventures

Boasting eco-adventures from "serene to extreme," ArborTrek Canopy Adventures specializes in outdoor activities. Visitors looking for an adrenaline rush plus an educational experience will enjoy the zip line canopy tour. Two guides familiar with the region's ecology lead the way, while safely guiding visitors of all zip lining experience levels through the adventure. Those focused on physical activity can try the treetop obstacle course or climbing adventure.

Recent travelers left their experience exhilarated. Most opted for the company's zip line canopy tour. Reviews were positive for groups that included everyone from children to seniors. The attention paid by staff to the safety and comfort of visitors was frequently noted.

Stowe Pinnacle Stowe Pinnacle free

Hiking enthusiasts can challenge themselves with Stowe Pinnacle, a 3.7 mile out and back trail in the C.C. Putnam State Forest. With an elevation gain of about 1,600 feet, this difficult trail will take several hours to complete in good weather. It is subject to seasonal closures, and is only partly marked. Additionally, there are a few sections of rock scrambling.

Recent hikers noted that this hike is both lovely and challenging. During the winter the trail is very snowy and icy. Some winter visitors did not complete the route. Those who did had spikes or crampons and noted that the views were worth the climb. In the warmer months the trail can become muddy. This hike is likely not for casual ramblers, although several travelers brought children. The trail is dog friendly, and while leashes are required, expect to see off-leash dogs.

Cold Hollow Cider Mill Cold Hollow Cider Mill free

If you love apple cider, this is your chance to see how it is made. Visit Cold Hollow Cider Mill to take a free self-guided tour of a working cider mill. Adults can then try the alcoholic version in Cold Hollow's hard cider tasting room. The cidery's store offers apple products suitable for the entire family. There is also an onsite restaurant serving breakfast and lunch.

Recent visitors praised the delicious products – especially the apple cider donuts. Some were repeat visitors. Many noted that this is a popular destination and that there are a wide variety of items to purchase.

Vermont Ski and Snowboard Museum Vermont Ski and Snowboard Museum

When you need a break from Stowe Mountain Resort 's slopes, take a peek in this quirky little museum. Nestled in downtown Stowe, the Vermont Ski and Snowboard Museum aims to "collect, preserve and celebrate Vermont's skiing and snowboarding history." Items found on display here include various skis, boots and chair lifts. There are also temporary exhibits on art and history topics related to winter sports.

Recent visitors said that anyone interested in skiing and snowboarding will enjoy this museum's collection. Most visited in order to spend an hour or so indoors, and a few wished there were more items to see.

Gold Brook Covered Bridge (Emily's Covered Bridge) Gold Brook Covered Bridge (Emily's Covered Bridge) free

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18 Delightful Things to Do in Stowe VT: A Four-Season Guide

By Author Tara Schatz

Posted on Published: January 13, 2024

Home to Vermont’s tallest peak, its most iconic ski resort, and two epic waterfalls, it’s not quite fair that the tiny town of Stowe, Vermont gets to host so many recreational splendors.

If you’re seeking outdoor recreation in Vermont, there are very few areas that can compete with the northern Green Mountains, and Stowe makes a perfect home base for all kinds of outdoor explorations.

If you’re seeking beautiful views, great restaurants, and scenic drives, Stowe is still a great choice, as long as you’re prepared to share this beautiful town with other Vermont lovers.

Stowe may be the poster child for the quintessential Vermont town, with its white steepled church against a gorgeous mountain backdrop, a collection of award-winning craft breweries, and a population of just under 6,000 residents.

But just because it’s a small town, doesn’t mean there aren’t plenty of things to do in Stowe VT — from picturesque covered bridges to bald mountain vistas, enchanting shops selling maple candy and high-end clothing, and fantastic restaurants for foodies, here are our top picks for the best things to do in Stowe.

Table of Contents

Things to Do in Stowe, Vermont: At-A-Glance

Here’s a bite-sized snapshot of everything you need to know to plan your trip to Stowe!

• When to Go:  Summer, fall, and winter are equally wonderful!
• Where to Stay:  We love Tälta Lodge for its low-key, cozy vibes and lovely views of the river.
• Top 3 Highlights:   Hiking all over the place , cross-country skiing at Trapp Family Lodge , and the outdoor patio at Idletyme Brewing Company.

Planning a vacation in northern Vermont? Here are a few more posts to inspire you.

• Best Hiking in Stowe VT: Easy to Moderate Trails
• You Need a Weekend at Elmore State Park in Vermont
• Spend the Night in a Vermont Castle: Irasburg, VT
• Plan a Family Getaway to Little River State Park

First, A Few Logistics for Visiting Stowe VT

Where is Stowe, Vermont?

Stowe is tucked in the northern Green Mountains at the base of Vermont’s highest peak, Mount Mansfield. While the landscape may feel rugged, mountainous, and remote, Stowe is actually the perfect location to take advantage of Vermont’s most beautiful destinations. Stowe is a 45-minute drive from Burlington, which is Vermont’s largest city and home to Burlington International Airport (BTV). It’s 30 minutes from the state capital of Montpelier, and 2.5 hours from Montreal (don’t forget your passport).

Do I need a car to visit Stowe?

Stowe is a rural community with a walkable downtown, but a car is the best way to explore the region, as many of the best attractions are located outside of the village. If you are flying into BTV in Burlington, you can rent a car at the airport. We use Kayak to compare car rental prices when traveling and have found some great deals.

When is the best time to visit Stowe?

While summer typically brings gorgeous sunny days and winter brings more than its fair share of snow, Stowe is a four-season destination with things to do inside and out. Winter recreation puts Stowe on the map as a travel destination, so if alpine skiing is your jam, head to Stowe between January and March. I love winter, but I’m not a downhill skier. My favorite time to visit Stowe is between June and October, which is a pretty huge window of opportunity for outdoor recreation. Stowe is one of the top fall foliage destinations in the USA, so if you’re thinking of an October visit, start planning yesterday, and be prepared for crowded trails, roads, and restaurants — and expensive lodging. Summer, while still busy, is a much more manageable time to visit, especially if you come during the week. There are so many ways to enjoy summer in Stowe — swimming holes, ice cream cones, bustling patios, and gorgeous mountain trails.

How much time should I spend in Stowe?

A long weekend should be plenty of time to hike a few trails, indulge in a few craft beers, and relax next to a few mountain waterfalls.

Things to do in Stowe VT Outdoors

With a heavy emphasis on outdoor activities and beautiful mountain vistas, Stowe is an ideal getaway destination for outdoor lovers. Here are the best things to do outdoors in and around Stowe, Vermont.

Drive, Ride, or Hike to the top of Mount Mansfield

Despite being the tallest mountain in Vermont, Mount Mansfield is a very accessible mountain. When looking at the mountain from the valley below, you can easily see how it got its name. Mount Mansfield looks like a face looking up toward the sky.

A long ridge connects various body parts — the nose (4,062 feet), upper lip, chin (4,393 feet), and Adam’s apple (4,060 feet). You can drive to right up to the nose on the Auto Toll Road from Stowe Mountain Resort . This 4.5-mile road starts at 3,850 feet and is open from late May to late October ($32 for car and driver. $12 for additional passengers).

The Gondola SkyRide , also run by Stowe Mountain Resort, brings riders from the base of the mountain up to the top, arriving just under the chin. Well-behaved dogs are permitted, and you can grab a bite at Cliff House Restaurant before hiking up to the chin. $37 for adults and $25 for kids 5-12.

From the nose, you can hike on the Long Trail for another 1.3 miles to reach the high point of the chin. Most of this route is above the treeline with 360-degree views of the Green Mountains, north to Canada, and west to Lake Champlain.

Save yourself some money while getting a full-body workout by hiking to the top. There are many different trails up Mount Mansfield, but I recommend starting in  Underhill State Park  and hiking the  Sunset Ridge Trail . It’s a 3.3-mile climb to the summit and quite strenuous. You can make a loop by combining Sunset Ridge with the Laura Cowles Trail for a total hike of 4.5 miles.

Go Cross-Country Skiing or Mountain Biking at Trapp Family Lodge

Did you know that Trapp Family Lodge is home to the first cross-country ski center in the country? With 100 kilometers of cross-country, snowshoe, and back-country ski trails on 2,500 acres, this is a choose-your-own-adventure kind of outing.

In the winter, Trapp Family Lodge rents skis and snowshoes and provides private and group lessons. You will need a trail pass to use the groomed and backcountry trails. $34 on weekends and $30 on weekdays. Dogs are not permitted on winter trails.

During warmer weather, many of those same trails become exhilarating mountain bike trails (mostly for intermediate riders, with some beginner and expert trails). Take a look at a trail map before booking your mountain bike rental and reserving a trail pass ($10 for adults, $5 for kids). Lessons are also available. Dogs are not permitted on summer trails.

The Trapp Family Lodge mountain bike trails connect with an even more extensive Stowe trail network, including Cady Hill Forest ,   Adams Camp , and  Sterling Forest , all managed by Stowe Trails Partnership.

While hikers are permitted on the trails at Trapp Family Lodge, there are so many gorgeous hiking trails, that we generally don’t recommend using these for hiking. We’ll talk about our favorite Stowe hiking trails below.

Ride (or Walk) the Stowe Recreation Path

And then there are those times when you just want to take a quiet bike ride, walk your pup, or push a stroller while contemplating how you can pack up your life and move to Vermont for good .

The Stowe Recreation Path starts in Stowe Village (park in the lot behind Stowe Community Church) and heads up the mountain, ending at Top Notch Resort.

The path is 5.3 miles (one-way), and there are numerous spots to hop on or off along the route. Two of our favorite restaurants, Idletyme Brewing Company and Piecasso are right off the Stowe Recreation Path, but there are also a few great spots for picnicking.

Walking this route in the summer? The Stowe Recreation Path runs along the West Branch River, and there are numerous spots to wade and a few spots deep enough for swimming.

Take a Hike in the Green Mountains

The northern Green Mountains provide endless opportunities for hiking in and around Stowe, whether you’ve got an hour or a full day to explore.

Here are a few of our favorite hiking trails in the region. For even more ideas, check out our Stowe hiking guide.

• Stowe Pinnacle: The hike to Stowe Pinnacle is 2.8 miles round-trip, and while I’d rate it as moderate, it’s a steady climb to the top. The views are absolutely worth the effort, but this busy trail is best enjoyed in the early morning or during the week.
• Wiessner Woods: This easy trail network is a great one for families with kids. The elevation gain is minimal, and there are hidden fairy gardens and gnomes sprinkled throughout the woods. Part of the Stowe Land Trust, Wiessner Woods is great for hiking in the summer and cross-country skiing or snowshoeing in the winter.
• Elmore Mountain: This hike is located 20 minutes from Stowe, but it makes a great summer day trip if you have time. Hike the moderate 4.5-mile loop in the morning, and then spend the day swimming in beautiful Lake Elmore. The hike does require a bit of scrambling on Fire Tower Trail.

Visit A Magnificent Waterfall (and Go Swimming)

Stowe is fortunate to be home to two of Vermont’s most beautiful waterfalls , both of which are free to access and require a short hike to get to.

Bingham Falls is located off of VT 108, also known as the Mountain Road, across from Smuggler’s Notch State Park . There is a big parking lot on the side of the road, which fills up on busy weekends.

The hike down to the fall and back is about a half mile in length with 150 feet of elevation change. Bring your swimsuit if you don’t mind frigid river swimming!

Moss Glen Falls is even easier to get to — there is a level boardwalk and trail to the top of the falls and then a moderately steep climb down the lower falls and swimming area. It’s actually a bit too shallow for real swimming, but you can definitely cool off.

Both of these short waterfall hikes are detailed in our Stowe hiking guide

Read Next: The 9 Best Swimming Holes in Vermont for Summer Fun

Paddle, Fish, Swim, or Camp on the Waterbury Reservoir

Created in the 1930s by the CCC as a flood control project, Waterbury Reservoir is surrounded by mountains and perfect for all kinds of recreation.

With two state parks, one front-country campground, several primitive campsites, and numerous hiking trails, this beautiful lake is just a short drive from Stowe.

Little River State Park is located on the west side of Waterbury Reservoir bordering Mansfield State Forest. This is one of our favorite state parks for family camping trips.

Brian, the park interpreter, offers all kinds of opportunities to get in touch with the natural and historical gems of the park. The interpretive programs are all family-friendly and incredible.

Waterbury Center State Park is a day-use park just a quarter-mile off of scenic Route 100 in Waterbury. This is the spot to launch your boat, rent canoes or kayaks, have a picnic, or paddle north to lakeside primitive campsites. $5 entrance fee for adults, $2 for kids.

Wander Through a Covered Bridge

What is it about covered bridges that fill people with such nostalgia? Once upon a time, there were at least 10 covered bridges in Stowe, but time and weather took their toll, and one historic covered bridge remains.

Built in 1840, Gold Brook Covered Bridge is tucked away in the foliage on Covered Bridge Road. This is one of the most photographed spots in Stowe and is said to be haunted by a young woman named Emily, which is why most people call it Emily’s Bridge.

According to legends, Emily lived nearby in the 1850s. She fell in love with a man who suggested she meet him at the Gold Brook Bridge at midnight for a secret rendezvous. When he stood her up, Emily took her own life and now haunts to bridge on moonlit nights.

I’d just assume visit Emily’s Bridge during the daytime!

Pedestrians meandering around Stowe will likely pass under the Giles W. Dewey Memorial Bridge, which crosses Little River on the Mountain Road in Stowe.

 These may be the only covered bridges in Stowe, but if you’re willing to drive just outside of town, you can visit several more. Trapp Family Lodge has a nice overview of all of the covered bridges in Lamoille County.

Go Skiing at Stowe Mountain Resort

With an annual average snowfall of more than 300 inches, Stowe Mountain Resort is one of New England’s most iconic ski areas. Alpine skiing began in Vermont when the Civilian Conservation Corps cut the first lift-serviced trails on Mount Mansfield in the 1930s. Stowe is also home to the nation’s oldest Ski Patrol.

Now owned by Vail Resorts, visitors can purchase an Epic Pass for a season of fun at mountain resorts across the country, including Stowe, Okemo, and Mount Snow in Vermont.

Stowe Mountain Resort is composed of Mount Mansfield and Spruce Peak with 116 trails and a vertical drop of 2,360 feet.

Go Ice Skating at the Village at Spruce Peak

Truth be told, I never got the hang of alpine skiing, but I can hold down the fort while my family hits the slopes and do après-ski with the best of them.

If you feel the same, you’ll feel right at home at Spruce Peak, where you can skate for free on a beautiful outdoor rink before heading inside for cocktails and dinner. Bring your own skates or rent them at the Adventure Center.

Weather permitting, the ice skating rink is open every day in the winter.

Take a Carriage or Sleigh Ride with Gentle Giants

Is there anything as romantic or as quintessential Vermont as snuggling up under blankets in a bright green sleigh as a team of draft horses pulls you effortlessly through the forest? I think not.

Gentle Giants offers horse-drawn sleigh rides every day in the winter, from 11 am to 4 pm. In the summer, the team switches out the sleighs for carriages. The scenery may change from season to season, but a scenic ride through Vermont is always a good time. $40 for adults and $20 for children. The ride is approximately 25 minutes.

Things to do in Stowe VT: Indoors

Not every day in Stowe will have perfect weather, and not all visitors want to spend their days frolicking in the forest (wait, they don’t?!?)

For those less-than-perfect days and those less-than-perfect people (just kidding), here are the best things to do surrounded by four walls and a roof in and around Stowe.

Indulge in a Craft Beer or Two

Vermont has more breweries per capita than any other state, and for a tiny town, Stowe boasts more than its fair share. No trip to Stowe is complete without a visit to the Alchemist Beer Cafe , where you can get hand-pulled drafts of the famous Heady Topper for just $5.

For fantastic beer, a wonderful food menu, and one of the best patios in Stowe, head to Idletyme Brewing Company . Munch on oversized Bavarian pretzels, huge burgers, or farm-fresh salads under the Vermont sunshine. In the summer, be sure to enjoy the Pink N Pale, a refreshing ale fermented with pink grapefruit.

If you’ve got a craving for traditional Austrian beers, Von Trapp Brewing at Trapp Family Lodge features award-winning lagers and a nice selection of Austrian lunch and dinner offerings in their Bierhall. This is the perfect ending to a cross-country skiing or mountain biking adventure!

Stuff Your Foodie Face

Where to eat in Stowe? You’ve got a lot of choices! Here are a few of our favorite spots. As we visit more restaurants in Stowe, we’ll update our list.

Doc Ponds: This is a popular evening hang-out in winter and summer and a cozy spot to indulge in simple, but yummy pub fare while listening to a variety of music from their massive vinyl collection. I love the sweet potato tacos. Doc Ponds doesn’t take reservations, and it does get busy, so plan accordingly.

Piecasso Family Pizzeria: Am I the only one who loves the familiarity of pizza when traveling? Piecasso makes fantastic artisan pizza, plus they have the perfect beer selection and a family-friendly dining room.

Stowe Sandwich Company: Planning a mega outdoor adventure? Pick up sandwiches or wraps from Stowe Sandwich Company on the Mountain Road for your picnic. They have a nice selection of hot and cold sandwiches and lots of vegetarian options.

Hen of the Wood in Waterbury: For a special night out, make reservations at Hen of the Wood before heading south to Waterbury. This fantastic contemporary restaurant has won numerous awards and accolades since it opened in 2005. This cozy spot serves famous steaks, a few vegetarian options, and a simple, but delightful menu that changes with the seasons. A night at Hen of the Wood is a memorable experience — I promise.

Learn How Cider is Made (and Eat Apple Cider Donuts in Waterbury)

Part cidery, part Vermont gift shop, and part restaurant, Cold Hollow Cider Mill in Waterbury has been welcoming guests for almost 50 years. It’s a popular tourist destination that’s not afraid to change with the times.

Since my first visit (in the 80s!), Cold Hollow Cider Mill has started making fantastic hard cider and added a great little restaurant, but they still make their cider the old-fashioned way — with a 1920 vintage rack and cloth cider press. 

You could spend a whole afternoon at Cold Hollow Cider Mill — take a self-guided tour through the mill, taste cider and donuts, wander the gift shop, and just take in the views.

Shop Main Street in Stowe Village

It won’t take you long to wander around Main Street in Stowe, but there’s a lot to see, so take your time.

Get your bearings at the Go Stowe visitor center, pick up some souvenirs at Shaw’s General Store , home goods at the Country Store on Main , and chocolates for your dog sitter at Laughing Moon Chocolates .

You won’t find chains or big box stores in Stowe — every store is entirely unique and there’s always something new to discover if you’ve got time and money to spare.

Check out the Ski and Snowboard Museum

The Vermont Ski Museum opened in 1988 and moved to Stowe in the early 2000s. The name was changed to the Vermont Ski and Snowboard Museum in 2011, and today the museum welcomes visitors to tour the collections housed in the old Town Meeting House and learn about the history of skiing and snowboarding in Vermont.

The Vermont Ski and Snowboard Museum is open Thursday to Sunday, from 12-5 pm. It’s closed for mud season (April 17-May 25). $5 suggested donation.

Tour Ben & Jerry’s Factory (Waterbury)

Founded in 1978 in Burlington, Vermont, Ben & Jerry’s is one of those iconic Vermont brands that is recognized around the country. The Waterbury factory is the only Ben & Jerry’s factory open to the public. Built in 1985, this was the company’s very first ice cream factory, and it continues to manufacture upwards of 350,000 pints per day.

Guided tours give visitors a sneak peek into the process of creating award-winning ice cream. There’s also a scoop shop and gift store onsite and a flavor graveyard out back where you can pay your respects to the “dearly de-pinted”.

Ben & Jerry’s is open from Tuesday to Saturday, 10 am-6 pm. Advanced online tickets are highly encouraged. Tickets are $6 per person.

Plan a Spa Day at Spruce Peak

There are a couple of different spots where you can indulge in a spa day in Stowe, but none offers as complete a treatment menu as the Spa and Wellness Center Spruce Peak .

The expansive spa features 18 treatment rooms and a huge array of treatments and packages, from CBD and traditional massages and facials to hairstyling, manicures, and pedicures. Browse the complete menu, then create your own spa day. When you choose any three services for the same person, you get 20% off.

Stock Up on Vermont Cheddar at the Cabot Farmer’s Store (Waterbury)

Stock up on a few blocks of Cabot cheddar to bring home at the Cabot Farmer’s Store in Waterbury . Not only do they have a huge selection of Vermont cheese, but they’ve got all kinds of specialty foods, craft beers, local ciders, and international wines.

It’s also an ideal spot to pick up some picnic supplies before you visit Waterbury Reservoir.

Where to Stay in Stowe, Vermont

Truth be told, there are a lot of hotels, inns, and resorts in Stowe, and if you’re not familiar with the area, it can be difficult choosing a spot to stay. Here are a few ideas.

For an all-inclusive experience, stay at Trapp Family Lodge : Located on the Mountain Road near Stowe Mountain Resort, Trapp Family Lodge is a great choice if you want to surround yourself with beautiful scenery, and take advantage of the onsite recreation, restaurants, and breweries. It’s close to all of Stowe’s major attractions, but you may just want to explore the property with its vast trail network, two swimming pools, disc golf, and more.

For hipster vibes and an indoor pool, try Tälta Lodge . Also located on the Mountain Road, this is a great spot for couples, and it’s right on the river with outdoor patios and lovely landscaping. One of our new favorites!

For easy access to ski trails and luxury accommodations, stay at Topnotch Resort : This is a great location on the Mountain Road and the culmination of the Stowe Recreation Path. This beautiful resort features an indoor and outdoor swimming pool, modern tennis facilities, and a full-service spa.

For an affordable stay, try Stowe Motel . Offering free bicycles and snowshoes to guests, this modest motel has an outdoor pool and a small kitchenette in each room. It’s cute and convenient, if a bit dated.

For great camping, stay at Smuggler’s Notch State Park : We love the small, quiet campground at Smuggler’s Notch State Park for summer camping. Reserve a lean-to and you won’t even have to worry about rain.

More Things to Do in Vermont

Grab our five-page printable bucket list that includes all the best things to do in Vermont !

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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.

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• Moss Glen Falls
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11 Things To Do In Stowe: Complete Guide To The Small-Town Ski Hotspot

S kiers and boarders likely already know the name Stowe, Vermont. It is one of the US’s top ten skiing and boarding destinations, and there are more than a few reasons why. With its ski resort located on Mount Mansfield, Vermont’s tallest mountain, there is an abundance of terrain on the mountain to enjoy.

However, the town of Stowe itself has a lot to offer travelers. Travelers looking to spend some time here in any season will find countless things to do in Stowe, Vermont, and in the surrounding area.

UPDATE: 2023/07/28 16:58 EST BY LANE VASQUEZ

Small Town Stowe: The Ultimate Travel Guide To Things To Do In Vermont's Ski Town

There's so much to do in Stowe, Vermont in every season; this updated list features more things to see and do both in winter during peak ski season and sights to see when it's warmer out.

Things To Do In Stowe, Vermont

Here's how to get started experiencing the best the town has to offer.

Go For A Hike In Or Around Stowe

Hiking is one of the best things to do in Stowe, and countless trails beckon to everyone, from beginners to experts.

Highlights in Stowe:

• The Long Trail , which runs the entire length of Vermont (and is the oldest of its kind in the U.S.)
• Smugglers Notch , a mountain pass located in a same-named State Park; visitors can hike as well as boulder, ice climb, explore caves, and bike

Vermont has tons of gorgeous hiking trails to explore , even outside Stowe.

Visit The Vermont Ski And Snowboard Museum

At the Vermont Ski And Snowboard Museum , visitors can learn about famous athletes, see artwork inspired by skiing and snowboarding, and hear from interesting speakers (or catch a ski-related film).

• Suggested admission is $5 per adult

Explore At Trapp Family Lodge Outdoor Center

The Trapp Family Lodge covers an impressive 2,500 acres and offers activities and adventures for outdoor and nature lovers all year long.

In the winter, travelers can look forward to cross-country and back-country skiing as well as snowshoeing. In the summer, travelers will be able to discover mountain bike trails, disc golf, hiking, Nordic walking, and outdoor concerts in their meadow!

Related: What To Know About Vermont's LVRT, Set To Be The Longest Rail Trail In New England

See The Sights At Local Falls

Stowe has two noteworthy waterfalls: Bingham Falls and Moss Glen Falls. Bingham Falls has both deep pools and gorges, plus trails that wind through areas where visitors are sure to see wild animals. The trail is short at only half a mile.

Moss Glen Falls is a longer trek at 5.2 miles and is more scenic; part of the hike is on boardwalks, while the last stretch is more vertical.

Explore The Gold Brook Covered Bridge

The eastern U.S. is known for its covered bridges, and Stowe has one of the oldest on offer . Gold Brook Bridge, AKA Emily's Bridge, was built around 1840 and is even said to be haunted .

• How many covered bridges are there in Stowe VT? At least ten were built between 1840 and 1870.

Drive The Auto Toll Road

Stowe is scenic on its own, but a great way to see a bit more of Vermont is via the Auto Toll Road. From Lake Champlain to the Adirondack Mountains, there's a lot to see.

• Auto Toll Road is open from May to October between 9:30 am and 4:30 pm
• How much is the toll road in Stowe VT? Vehicles cost $26, including tax; bicycles and motorcycles are not permitted

Though some roads, including the Auto Toll Road, close in winter, Vermont has countless open roads for winter excursions .

Pack a picnic and find a scenic spot to stop.

Visit The Very First Ben & Jerry's

Stowe is home to the original Ben & Jerry's manufacturing site, and today, visitors can tour the factory and sample the goods.

• Visitors must pre-book Factory Experience tickets; they are released two weeks ahead and often sell out quickly
• Cost: $7 per person

Canoe Or Kayak Local Waterways

Canoe or kayak the Lamoille River for a unique view of Stowe, Vermont. Local businesses provide paddling rentals for use at Lamoille River, Waterbury Reservoir, Lake Elmore, and Winooski River.

A Stowe Must-Do: Go Skiing

Stowe Mountain Resort is Stowe's most popular ski spot ; the resort has everything, with highlights for each season . In winter, skiing and snowboarding take over (rentals and lessons are available), while summer is the perfect time for scenic lift rides, golf, biking, and more.

• Highlight: The Gondola Skyride , which operates from June through October

Enjoy A Local Brew

Stowe is known for its hopping hops culture, with various breweries around town. Highlights include:

Idletyme Brewing Company

• Stowe Cider
• The Alchemist Brewery

What To Know During Ski Season

Winter in Stowe may be all about skiing, the resort ranks in the top ten of US ski resorts, but there is so much more to this small town than that. Nordic Skiing, dog-sledding, snowmobiling, fat bike riding, and sleigh rides are also incredibly popular here.

Related: 10 Scenic Winter Drives You Need To Take In Vermont

Travelers should expect hotels to fill up quickly and for lift ticket costs to rise during holidays, but if they plan ahead they should be fine.

Stowe is home to many fun activities and events, both in and out of ski season. The town hosts arts and crafts shows, a balloon festival, and even a weekend-long British Invasion event held every September.

Skiers and borders, however, may be more interested in the ski area. Mount Mansfield, though the home of Stowe’s ski resort is 4,393 feet which makes it Vermont’s tallest mountain. Travelers should note the terrain of this mount is primarily for intermediate and expert skiers.

Related: Amtrak Union Station: 10 Things To Know About Burlington, Vermont's Easiest Gateway To New York City

Winter season aside the area town and mountain both still have a lot to offer. Many hiking trails fill the mountain and nearby Smuggler’s Notch State Park which includes a portion of the famous Long Trail.

Best Ways To Get Around Stowe, VT

Stowe is a small town, and despite its tourism, it has relatively limited public transportation. This means cars are quite important for getting around.

Driving a car will be the best way to get around Stowe, VT. It's not a large town, so public transit is limited making cars nearly a must. There isn’t anywhere in Stowe to rent cars but nearby Burlington and its airport are where travelers can find car rentals .

Having four wheels to navigate around while in Stowe will massively increase the pleasure of the experience—and it makes a visit to Emily's Bridge easier.

If travelers are in Stowe from late November to early April and are staying on Mountain Road, Stowe Mountain Resort, or Stowe Village, they can access the mountain via Green Mountain Transit's No. 108 bus .

The bus runs from 6:30 am to 9 pm and is a nice way to reach the mountain. However, the line’s route is limited and is mostly, if only, used by skiers and boarders.

By Taxi, Uber, or Lyft

Travelers who find themselves stuck and in need of quick transport will be able to make use of the town’s taxi companies as well as both Uber and Lyft.

Travelers will find these rides to be pricey. The overall cost of renting a car will be cheaper than relying on a taxi, Uber, or Lyft to get around while in Burlington.

Now, during the winter this is not a good form of transportation for Burlington, though during the warmer months, cycling around is great in this small Vermont town.

Travelers can even access attractions like the Vermont Ski and Snowboard Museum which is right along the Stowe Recreation Path. But if it’s winter, travelers should count on other forms of transit.

Where To Stay

Being one of the most popular ski destinations in the US, travelers can be sure that Stowe will have many varied accommodations for travelers.

To help them out, here are three of the most highly recommended accommodations in Stowe, Vermont.

Trapp Family Lodge

This Austrian-inspired lodge is not only a destination for activity, but it is also one for lodging and relaxation. Travelers looking for a European-feeling ski adventure will be able to find a close thing to it a the Trapp Family Lodge .

All year round they bring fun activities to the area and their 2,500 acres which host a great deal of year-round fun.

• Accommodation: Trapp Family Lodge
• Address - 700 Trapp Hill Rd, Stowe, VT 05672-5074
• Amenities - Free parking, Free High-Speed Internet (Wi-Fi), Pool, Fitness Center with Gym, Workout Room, Bar/Lounge, Bicycle rental, Hiking

Topnotch Resort

As its name suggests, the accommodations for the Topnotch Resort really are the top of what’s available in Burlington, but it does come with a price that matches.

Situated scenically in the Vermont countryside, this resort has everything travelers need from dining to relaxation; this resort has it.

• Accommodation: Topnotch Resort
• Address - 4000 Mountain Road, Stowe, VT 05672
• Amenities - Blackout curtains, Air conditioning, Desk, Fireplace, Housekeeping, Refrigerator, Cable/satellite TV, Walk-in shower

Brass Lantern Inn

Travelers looking for the best value for their dollar should consider the Brass Lantern Inn . The Inn is plenty luxurious and aesthetic in its Vermont scenery.

Amenities like breakfast, hot tubs, an outdoor fireplace, and great access to Stowe’s shops and restaurants make this one of the most popular places for travelers. With their reasonable room costs, it’s easy to see why.

• Accommodation: Brass Lantern Inn
• Address - 717 Maple St, Stowe, VT 05672-4250
• Amenities - Free parking, Free High-Speed Internet (Wi-Fi), Hot tub, Free breakfast, Game room, Hiking, Non-smoking hotel, Outdoor fireplace

Where To Eat In Stowe

Travelers will likely find themselves quite hungry after a day on the slopes or any of the other fantastic outdoor activities in Stowe. So, to help travelers out, here is a look at three of the top food destinations in Stowe.

Green Goddess Café

Starting off a day of adventure right is important, so travelers should do so at Green Goddess Café. They love great food and only serve their patrons the best quality cuisine they can.

From breakfast sandwiches to scrambles and cupcakes, travelers can start their adventure here.

• Address - 618 S Main St, Stowe, VT 05672-5070
• Contact - (802)253-5255
• Cost - $$-$$$
• Fan-Favorite - Huevos Rancheros

Harrison's Restaurant & Bar

Travelers looking for a perfect night out in Stowe will love Harrison’s Restaurant & Bar . Serving delicious drinks and local favorites to its patrons.

Harrison’s has a polite and friendly staff that has been showered in great reviews. For a classic night out, this is the place travelers should check out.

• Address - 25 Main St Carlson Bldg, Stowe, VT 05672-5185
• Contact - (802)253-7773
• Fan-Favorite - Tuna Poke Bowl

Travelers looking for a bar and grill with a bit of young and modern flare should try out Idletyme Brewing Company . Their burgers and how delicious they are, are the topic of nearly every review for this brewery. So, stop by for a burger and a brew, travelers won’t regret it.

• Address - 1859 Mountain Rd, Stowe, VT 05672
• Contact - (802) 253-4765
• Fan-Favorite - The Burgers

Estimated Costs For Visiting

Estimating the cost of Stowe will be done by considering the cost of lodging, food, activities, and the price of a lift ticket. Hotels will run travelers anywhere around 150 to 500 dollars a night and can go higher on holidays. The cost for food will cost travelers 15 to 30 dollars per meal, but drinks can quickly increase that cost.

Related: Ice Skating In An Abandoned Underground Quarry? You Can In Vermont

Travelers renting a car can expect to pay about 60 dollars per day too. A single-day ski ticket will also cost between 150 and 200 dollars.

Obviously, there are ways to cut down these costs , such as booking in advance, staying at a motel instead of a formal hotel, or making use of a season pass or other discounts.

The Perfect Day In Stowe, VT

The perfect day in Stowe would likely involve skiing or boarding, but for the sake of this article, this would be the perfect day spent in the town of Stowe, Vermont. It would start with breakfast, of course, and a quick stop at Green Goddess Café to get the day rolling.

Next would be a Nordic adventure at Trapp Family Lodge Outdoor Center. Afterward, and likely with a massive appetite, travelers would visit Idletyme Brewing Company for a massive burger and some beer to help recover from the morning.

Finally, a quiet afternoon spent at the Vermont Ski and Snowboard Museum is on the agenda before returning to town to spend the remainder of the evening at Harrison's Restaurant & Bar.

Q: What to do in Stowe for 2 days?

Whatever season travelers head to Stowe, there is plenty to do. In winter, head to Stowe Mountain Resort for snow fun. In spring or summer, hike around town, check out the local haunted bridge , and in fall, peep the gorgeous Community Church in all its autumnal glory .

Q: Is the Stowe gondola worth it?

By all travelers' accounts, yes , the Stowe gondola is indeed worth it. When it's open in spring and summer, the views are unmatched.

Q: What is the best month to visit Stowe?

Travelers can visit Stowe in any season, as it has peak times in winter (for skiing) and summer (for everything else). The best month for outdoor activities that don't involve snow are June through August, while the best time to ski might be March, the shoulder month (snowy season is usually over in April).

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16 Cool Things to Do in Stowe, Vermont (aside from Skiing!)

Written by Becca

Updated on April 26th, 2024

Taking a trip to Stowe, Vermont? This list of the best year-round activities and things to do includes shopping, hiking, nature walks, bike paths, breweries and dining.

This article may contain affiliate links. We earn a small commissions when you purchase via those links — and it's free for you. It's only us (Becca & Dan) working on this website, so we value your support! Read our privacy policy and learn more about us .

Posted in New England

Table of contents

• When to travel to Stowe
• Where to stay in Stowe
• Things to do in Stowe year-round
• Where to eat in Stowe (best restaurants)
• Best breweries in Stowe (where to drink)
• Day trips from Stowe (within Vermont)

I think that Stowe, Vermont, and the surrounding area, is a traveler’s dreamland. While the area is best-known for skiing and snowboarding, there’s so much to do on a trip, regardless of which types of activities you like.

I’m actually not a snowboarder nor skier, so I thought, what could there be for me in Stowe, especially in spring, summer or fall? That’s the best secret, though: in Stowe, there’s a list this long (keep reading) of fun things to do, cool place see, excellent restaurants for eating at and nice cider mills, breweries and dessert shoppes for enjoying.

Of all the things to do in Stowe, how will you choose what to see? Check out what to see in this list, including some local insights from my good friend Jordan (the coffee-lover behind Cold Brew Vermont on Instagram!).

Where to stay in Stowe

• Best quaint inn Check Availability
• Best for character Check Availability
• Best resort Check Availability
• Best home away from home Check Availability
• Best charming inn Check Availability

When to travel to Stowe

Dan and I went to Stowe in early fall (first week of September), on the cusp of the end of summer, and it was absolutely perfect. The days were not too long and not too short, the daytime temperatures were a pleasure and the nights weren’t too cold (but they were chilly).

The coldest months in Stowe are January, which will have the lowest nighttime lows below freezing (single-digits F), and February, which will have the lowest daytime highs (in the 20s F).

The warmest months are July and August, with highs in the 60s (the sun may make it feel 70s!) and nights in the 50s. Stowe is a nice destination for escaping summer heat if you live in the NYC area like I do. The best time of year to travel to Stowe is May through October (high season).

Some hotels in Stowe are located right downtown, while some are a few minutes outside the town center, close to nature and outdoor activities. You can’t go wrong with these inns and resorts when you researach where to stay in Stowe.

Green Mountain Inn

This New England-style charming inn is located right in historic Stowe, with the town at your fingertips. You can’t really find a better location for your accommodation in Stowe! Each room has traditional country character.

Trapp Family Lodge

The Trapp Family Lodge is a destination of its own, what with the beer hall right on the premises. Staying here might trick you into thinking you’re in Switzerland, given the green mountains (during summer) and snowy surroundings in winter. The rooms are very homey and some even have rustic elements like pretty wooden beams.

Topnotch Resort

I found out about this resort from my friend Jordan, who recommended the spa. The Topnotch resort is the stylish option for your hotel in Stowe, and it’s great for couples. There’s 24-hour room service, indoor and outdoor swimming pools, suites and “houses” that fit up to 7 guests.

Little River Inn

This modestly-priced inn is a home away from home, with comfortable rooms and welcoming details. The owners are personable and each day will delight visitors with a different breakfast.

Stowe Village Inn

Set right outside town, this colonial-style inn with a wrap-around outdoor porch has an updated and chic interior. The porch is a wonderful place to sit back and enjoy coffee in the morning! With fabulous reviews, the rooms are spacious and the beds are comfortable. This hotel is a good spot for couples!

Things to do in Stowe year-round

Whether you’re headed up to Stowe for a ski trip or a summer weekend getaway, there is a great variety of activities in the area. We took our babymoon trip to Stowe, so we were looking for easy, relaxing and chilled-out stuff to do. Maybe you’re traveling as a family, or on a romantic couples vacation! There is something fun for everyone, even rain or shine (or snow).

Bike, walk or run on the Stowe Rec Path

The Stowe Rec Path was probably our #1 favorite thing we did in Stowe. It’s a 5.3-mile paved path that goes either way out of the town, and crosses farms, rivers and pretty areas like the corn maze and tiny petting farm I saw!

Dan wanted to get his running miles in, and I wanted to do an easy walk and get my steps. We met up at a pretty spot after Dan was done running. Along the way, I saw folks walking dogs, walking babies, playing with kids and for sure, biking.

Jordan says, You can walk any part of the Stowe Rec Path, or you can rent any type of bike to accommodate kids! You can read more and see the map at the Stowerec.org site.

Walk around shops on Main Street

There’s quite a bit of shopping in Stowe, from bookstores and toy stores to home decor, souvenirs and wine shops. You’ll find all of Stowe’s shopping on Main street, as well as turning up on Route 108. A full list of all the retail to look forward to is the Go Stowe website . Jordan says to make sure to “mosey around.”

Take a Stowe brewery tour

If you came up to Vermont to see breweries, you’re in luck: a guided tour with a local brewery expert will take you to five iconic hot spots. This is a great way to see VT’s brewery culture and not miss any of the info! It’s also a good idea for something to do on a rainy day.

Trapp Hiking Trails

If you end up at the Trapp Family Lodge for a meal, Jordan recommends going for a hike on the 35 miles of hiking trails that are for hikers at all levels. There are child-friendly paths like the easy Wildflower Walk, as well as off-trail hikes that are more moderate. See more at the Trapp Family website .

Play mini golf at Stowe Golf Park

For a mini golf adventure (a true vacation specialty), check out Stowe Golf Park . Note that it’s seasonal, and closes for winter (November to April).

Go bowling at Stowe Bowl

If your trip gets rained out (like the first day of our time in Stowe), you may need an indoor activity! Try bowling at the Stowe Bowl bowling alley, which also has a lounge and eatery.

Buy fresh goods at the Stowe Farmers Market

The Stowe Farmers Market (which runs seasonally from mid-May til the third week of October) is the town’s favorite place to get farm-fresh baked goods, berries, maple syrups, meats, cheeses, milk and more. There are also prepared food vendors, craft vendors and artisans selling everything you can think of. Visitors will also love bringing home a specialty item from Stowe!

It opens on Sundays from 10:30am to 3pm. I recommend visiting the website before you go!

See the Gondola Skyride views at Mt. Mansfield

If you’re staying in Stowe, you’re staying near the tallest point in the state! Heading up the peak of Mt. Mansfield (known for skiing) is a little pricey, but you can either drive the toll road to the top of Mt. Mansfield OR get tickets on the Gondola SkyRide to explore the top.

The SkyRide is open from mid-June to mid-October, so keep that in mind in regard to your trip dates!

Do a spa day at Top Notch Spa

Top Notch Spa is super popular, according to Jordan, and on the “ritzier end.” The spa includes an indoor pool, hot tub, full service salon, massages and facials. It is an excellent place to relax or go horseback riding as well.

Go for sunset at Stowe Sunset Rock

Going for a sunset at Sunset Rock was an activity that I carefully planned, and then we had pouring rain our first night in Stowe so we headed straight out to some downtown dining.

If it had been gorgeous weather like I had pictured, we would’ve gone up for an awesome sunset experience! It’s especially picturesque in autumn! The hike is 1 mile and takes an hour or less. See the details here .

Get lost in the Percy Farm Corn Maze

I passed by the Percy Farm Corn Maze during my morning walk on the Stowe Rec Path! It looks just like a corn maze out of a movie. What a cool activity that can really challenge the whole family! The full details are available at the Facebook page .

Go for a perfect picnic

Jordan says, “Stowe is a perfect place to buy some food and then plop down somewhere picturesque, either a park or during a short hike!” He’s right: you can picnic at some parks along Stowe Rec Path, as well as any of the nature walks I list below.

Hit up the Ranch Camp Restaurant & Bike Shop

Is there anything more “Vermont” than a restaurant that’s also a bike shop? Jordan recommended Ranch Camp to me, and the concept is super cool. The restaurant is open 11am-8pm every day (except Tuesday) and the menu has sandwiches, burritos, salads and tacos, with clear designations for vegetarians, vegans and gluten-free travelers.

As for the bike shop, there’s a HUGE list of bike parts and bike gear for purchase, as well as bike tune-ups, repairs and bike consignment services. As a biker myself, this is so neat to see!

Hike Mt. Mansfield Transverse

For expert hikers, check out the Mt. Mansfield Transverse, a full-day hike that can take around six hours. I haven’t done it, but I did start reading about it at the Go Stowe website . If you were looking for ways to avoid the travel crowds , this is probably it.

Keep in mind that Mt. Mansfield isn’t exactly in Stowe, because it’s a state forest, and Stowe is a town. If you’d like to explore the forest area, use the map at AllTrails and try a moderate trail like Cotton Brook if you don’t want to engage in a trail labeled as “Hard.”

A lot of these hikes remind me of what you might see in Lake Placid and the nearby Adirondacks .

Try any of the local hiking and nature walks

As I did my research for “easy hikes in Stowe,” I came up with quite a few results! Here are my findings, along with several that were recommended by friends before we left for our trip. Some of these spots would be ideal for taking kids or dogs.

• Bingham Trail : This is a half-mile “moderate” out-and-back hike
• Cady Hill Forest : Cady Hill is an easy woods walk and is a multi-use trail for biking, running and hiking.
• Thompson Park : This park is right along the Stowe Rec Path and may be a good destination to input if you’d like to wind up on the path.
• Kirchner Woods : This family-friendly hiking area has loads of sugar maples, and is popular for seeing wildlife.
• Wiessner Woods : This area has a 2-mile “easy” hike that’s a loop trail. It’s open year-round.
• Sterling Gorge Falls : While coded as moderate, this is a short hike that takes you past a waterfall and is very peaceful.

Visit historic covered bridges

If we had had all the time in the world, I would’ve been insisting that we visit every covered bridge in the area so that we could take cool photos. Alas, we didn’t even have time to see more than the covered bridge next to the parking lot at the Best Western !

Here are two Stowe-area historic covered bridges that I starred in my maps. You can see more about the regional covered bridges at Go Stowe .

• Gold Brook Covered Bridge : Covered Bridge Rd, Stowe, VT 05672 (opened in 1844)
• Red Covered Bridge : Cole Hill Rd, Morristown, VT 05661 (built in 1896)

Where to eat in Stowe (best restaurants)

Stowe has a ton of great restaurants, and the list below is just a slice (ha!) of what you can expect and put on your wish list.

Piecasso is recommended by Jordan for great pizza in Stowe. It is probably the best pizza in all of Stowe (according to some), and you have to try the garlic knots. The lively atmosphere keeps pizza lovers coming back year after year, so it’s a must.

This cool hangout restaurant has excellent food and beer, and is a classic “Vermont fare” done well, according to Jordan. There is a rotating selection of craft brews to keep beer lovers happy, and dinner favorites like Brisket & Brie, burgers, jalapeño poppers, and the crispy fried chicken sandwich. Patio seating is a bonus!

Green Goddess Cafe

This healthy cafe immediately went on my Stowe dining bookmark list. Jordan says it’s a small and quaint breakfast place that the town buzzes about for its vegan options, coffee, salads and smoothies.

It’s in the heart of downtown Stowe, so it’s convenient if you’re passing by or staying a while. If you were looking for places to travel as a vegetarian , Stowe is it.

Von Trapp Brewery & Bier Hall

This brewery and beer hall is like a taste of Austria, but in Vermont (maybe they’re not so different after all). This is a seriously huge place that has taken in a ton of awards for its beers like the Bohemian Pilsner and Oktoberfest. Jordan says to bring a frisbee or ball and hang out outside!

There’s classic foods that kids love and beer, burgers and brats for the adults.

Maybe watch Sound of Music before coming up to get in the mood!

The Bench is for Vermont comfort food, and we ate at The Bench for a nice dinner our first night in Stowe. I loved the gluten-free pizza! We sat at the bar and got to talk to a friendly bartender. This place has great Vermont vibes with an awesome beer list, pizza, burgers and more.

Ben & Jerry’s Factory

The Ben & Jerry’s Factory Tour is a big attraction in the Stowe area. In fact, it’s actually in neighboring Waterbury, so you can see more about it in our Waterbury travel guide !

Best breweries in Stowe (where to drink)

Stowe has a number of awesome cider mills, breweries, distilleries and spots for ice cream. Check ‘em out below.

Stowe Cider Mill

I’m big into cider, as someone who seeks out gluten-free travel destinations , and cider mills are fun for me! Stowe Cider is located right in Stowe, and serves cider flights in a hip and lively taproom that makes for a memorable stop on a trip.

Alchemist Brewery

The highly-rated Alchemist Brewery is a Vermont favorite and does tours in addition to welcoming beer fanatics to its beer cafe. Jordan told me, “You probably know what Heady Topper is, and you can get Heady Topper and Focal Banger all around the state, but the brewery normally has another 4-5 beers you can only get there.”

“There are lots of strong NE IPAs,” Jordan notes, and, “You can sample a few of what they have in line, and then decide if you want to buy any four-packs.” As a great thing to know, Alchemist is open every day of the week , which is rare for a brewery.

Idyletime Brewery

This brewery is also located right in Stowe and does brewery tours upon request. There’s a restaurant, brewery and biergarten, so there are a few ways to enjoy some time relaxing at the property. This is one of the higher-rated breweries in Vermont, and the atmosphere, along with the food quality, at the restaurant, do not disappoint.

Lost Nation Brewing

If you are down for a little bit of driving up to Morrisville (this one’s not in Stowe), check out Lost Nation Brewery , which also comes recommended by Jordan. It’s a chill place with outdoor seating, a small indoor taproom and friendly service are worth going up for! This brewery is popular with bikers who’re going up the road.

Green Mountain Distillery

This slightly lesser-known distillery in the Stowe area is a hidden gem up in Morristown, and it’s only a 10-minute drive up Rt. 100 from downtown Stowe. The distillery crafts organic gin, vodka and other liqueurs. The owners know an incredible amount about alcoholic beverages and are very friendly with visitor questions.

This spot is dog-friendly! Local tip: Try the maple liquor.

Day trips from Stowe (within Vermont)

We used our hotel base in Stowe to spend days or half-days in other places that we wanted to see in Vermont! With Stowe being a rather central point (that was why we chose it, and it was perfect!) we got to visit Jordan in Burlington, and my cousin in Montpelier.

Check out if these day trips from Stowe could be for you.

Burlington is Vermont’s largest city and is an idea for a day trip. We went to Burlington for a day to see Jordan, and he took us on the Burlington Greenway Walking & Biking Path. Burlington has a LOT of shopping, dining and drinking, so put this city on your list for your itinerary. It is a 45-minute drive.

Little Montpelier is Vermont’s petite capital, and my cousin lives there! I always like a trip to Montpelier to see the grand gold-domed state house, the small cafes and restaurants and the nearby accessible nature. It’s only a 30-minute drive from one city to the other.

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17 Top-Rated Things to Do in Stowe, VT

Written by Barbara Radcliffe Rogers Updated Mar 23, 2023 We may earn a commission from affiliate links ( )

Long before ski trails webbed mountainsides throughout New England, skiers headed to Stowe. Along with North Conway in New Hampshire and a few western mountains, Stowe was one of the leaders in establishing recreational skiing in America. And in turn, skiing made Stowe one of the best places to visit in Vermont .

But winter sports aren't the only things to do in Stowe. You'll find an active cultural community, with art and craft galleries, theater, and music. Natural attractions abound, and outdoor sports are a year-round passion in Stowe, with miles of walking and hiking trails and Vermont's highest mountain to climb.

Couples can take a romantic moonlit sleigh ride, stroll through one of Vermont's prettiest towns , and dine in Stowe's many fine restaurants. Families will find exciting terrain parks for teens, the Kids Adventure Zone at Spruce Peak for beginning skiers, and more than five miles of level bicycle paths.

Whether you're a skier, outdoor enthusiast, or casual tourist, you'll be able to plan a perfect Vermont vacation with this list of the best things to do in Stowe.

1. Walk or Bike the Stowe Recreation Path

2. ski at stowe mountain resort, 3. smugglers' notch, 4. take the gondola skyride at stowe mountain resort, 5. drive the toll road to mansfield's summit, 6. climb mt. mansfield, 7. go cross-country skiing at the trapp family lodge, 8. take a sleigh or carriage ride, 9. go gallery hopping and shopping, 10. gold brook covered bridge (emily's bridge), 11. sterling falls gorge, 12. vermont ski and snowboard museum, 13. weissner woods, 14. take in a show, 15. be arty at the current, 16. stop at ben & jerry's, 17. quench your thirst at cold hollow cider mill, map of things to do in stowe, vt, stowe, vt - climate chart.

The poster child for public multi-use trails everywhere, Stowe's Recreation Path is a paved 5.3-mile trail leading from the center of the village to a point below the base of Mt. Mansfield. Level and wide enough to accommodate walkers, joggers, and cyclists, it is open all year and groomed in the winter for Nordic skiers.

The path traverses meadows, runs alongside farmlands, through parks, and crosses the West Branch of Little River several times before ending at a picturesque covered bridge. Along the way are benches, picnic tables, and sweeping views of Mt. Mansfield. In the summer and fall, a field beside the trail near Thompson Park becomes the Percy Farm Corn Maze .

Restaurants, inns, and shops along Mountain Road are easy to access from the path. There's parking at the beginning; behind the Community Church; at Thompson Park just off Route 108 (Mountain Rd.); at Chase Park; and at the end, near Top Notch Resort.

Bike maintenance stations behind the church and at Chase Park include repair tools.

The Quiet Path is a low-impact extension of the trail for walkers and joggers, a 1.8-mile unpaved path along the river with interpretive signs. Unlike the main trail, the Quiet Path allows free-running dogs. You can access the Quiet Path from parking areas on Cemetery, Weeks Hill, or Mayo Farm roads.

Mount Mansfield is the highest peak in Vermont and, combined with the adjacent Spruce Peak, it offers some of the finest skiing in the East . At the heart of Vermont's snowbelt, Stowe Mountain Resort can usually depend on good ski conditions from December through early April.

Its trails have some of the state's greatest vertical , and along with the superlative skiing, Stowe gives skiers a sense of skiing with history. One of the country's earliest ski resorts, Stowe installed one of the world's first chairlifts in 1937, when recreational skiing was in its infancy.

The resort has grown along with the industry, and now carries skiers to the slopes on two gondolas and 11 chairlifts, including three high-speed quads and three conventional quads.

The 116 trails are designed all skill levels, with more than half for intermediates, 29 for experts, and 19 for beginners. Boarders and freestylers have three terrain parks , and the Kids Adventure Zones feature gentle slopes and terrain designed for learning skiers.

At the base of the mountain, the resort's Cross Country Ski Center offers 45 kilometers of groomed trails and 30 kilometers of backcountry terrain.

Trails in the Mount Mansfield State Forest connect to the Stowe Recreation Path, which leads into downtown Stowe. The rental shop at the center carries ski equipment and snowshoes for children as young as three, as well as pull-sleds for young children.

Address: 5781 Mountain Road, Stowe, Vermont

Official site: https://www.stowe.com

As it climbs past Stowe Mountain Resort, Route 108 snakes its way up into Smugglers' Notch, a narrow mountain pass where the 1000-foot cliffs of Mount Mansfield and Spruce Peak close in on each side.

The road zigzags between huge boulders that have dropped from overhead. Some of the curves are too narrow for two cars to pass.

So narrow and curving that snowplows can't maneuver through it, the road is closed in the winter, but when it's open, you can pull into one of the parking areas between the massive boulders and explore paths through this strange world of rock, twisted trees, and caves. These caves gave the notch its name, for smugglers hid in them as they carried on illegal trade with Canada; sign boards tell the fascinating story.

The caves and gigantic boulders were formed by the glacier during the last ice age, as it smashed and scraped the ledges, dropping chunks of them into the notch. There, the glaciers continued to jostle and move them, grinding them into the jumble of boulders you see today.

Before the notch, stop at the Green Mountain Club building to walk on the Barnes Camp Loop , a newly created 1.5-mile trail following a former portion of the Long Trail , which crosses Route 108 in Smugglers' Notch. The trail features a boardwalk and is ADA-accessible .

Just past the picnic area is a small pull-out on the left, where you can get a dramatic view of the deep cut of the notch and the cliffs overhanging each side – the source of the boulders that are strewn in the woods and beside the road ahead.

Smugglers' Notch State Park , below the notch itself, has well-spaced wooded tent sites.

The distinctive profile of Mt. Mansfield rises like a backdrop to Stowe, it's ridgeline of several peaks said to resemble a man's face. As you look at the mountain from the valley, you'll recognize the brow, nose, and chin.

Covered in winter snow, green trees in the summer, or ablaze with red and yellow foliage in the fall, Mt. Mansfield is a magnet for tourists.

While the Gondola SkyRide was built to take skiers to the trails, it is a summer and fall attraction for sightseeing as well, carrying visitors to views of Lake Champlain, New Hampshire's White Mountains, and the Adirondack Mountains in New York.

It's also a way to reach the upper hiking trails of Mt. Mansfield without the long, hard climb. The gondola takes you to just below the Long Trail, so you can hike just the summit part for the best views. A restaurant and a snack-bar are at the summit gondola station.

Address: 7416 Mountain Road, Stowe, Vermont

Alternatively, you can drive the Auto Toll Road to an altitude of 3,850 feet, within 500 feet of the summit. Opened in 1870 for carriages to reach the hotel at the summit (long gone), the current road was opened to automobiles in 1932.

In the winter, the historic 4.5-mile road doubles as a ski trail.

The drive takes about 20 minutes, in a series of switchbacks that reveal ever-better views through breaks in the trees. At the top, you can access trails to the summit ridgeline, or take a picnic and just enjoy the views from the clearing above the parking lot.

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

Address: 78 Toll Road, Stowe, Vermont

While an arduous climb isn't for everyone, hiking along Mt. Mansfield's two-mile open ridge line with views of three states is the best hike in Vermont . This hike above the tree line climbs all four peaks, known as the Adam's Apple, Chin (the highest point in Vermont, at 4,393 feet), Nose, and Forehead.

The sweeping views in every direction are not the only draw of this lofty mountaintop. Mt. Mansfield supports 200 acres of rare tundra plants that normally inhabit only high Alpine or Arctic regions. This is all that's left of the fragile ecosystem that was lost as the glacier receded and the climate warmed. If you hike here, stay on the trail so as not to destroy these rare plants.

You can choose from several trails to reach the summit, including the Long Trail , which crosses Mountain Rd. (Route 108) at the base of Smugglers' Notch. The trail climbs about 2.3 miles to reach the ridgeline.

Address: Route 108, Stowe, Vermont

The nation's first commercial cross-country ski facility, the Trapp Family Lodge Outdoor Center is still one of the country's best, with 100 kilometers of cross-country trails, plus snowshoe and backcountry ski trails on over 2,500 acres.

More than 60 kilometers are groomed and machine-tracked for both classic and skate skiing. Trails wind through the woods and across high meadows with views of the Green Mountains.

This complete outdoor center includes rental ski equipment and snowshoes, a shop that carries outdoor clothing and equipment, and a full program of Nordic and snowshoe instruction.

Families love the Mountain Kids Club , where children learn to cross-country ski and enjoy indoor activities and movies while parents spend more time on the trails.

As one of the top cross-country ski centers in Vermont , the Trapp Family Lodge hosts the NCAA Ski Championships and other national Nordic ski competitions.

Address: 700 Trapp Hill Road, Stowe, Vermont

Official site: www.trappfamily.com

One of the most romantic things to do in Stowe is to glide over the moonlit snow in a cherry-red horse-drawn sleigh. At Gentle Giants , on Mountain Road, you can ride through the woods and through a covered bridge at night, as lights twinkle in the trees. Daytime rides bring magnificent views of Mt. Mansfield.

On a summer day or evening you can choose between a Victorian or a Surrey carriage for two, or join another couple in a Vis-A-Vis carriage for four. Small groups or families can take a wagon ride in a bright red open wagon pulled by horses.

Address: 3985 Mountain Road, Stowe, Vermont

The compact center of Stowe clusters around the welcoming presence of the beautifully restored Green Mountain Inn , a Stowe fixture since 1833. Around it, shops feature everything from fashionable sportswear to maple candy, and galleries spotlight the talents of local craftspeople and Vermont artists.

For a stunning collection of fine crafts, you'll find Remarkable Things at Stowe Craft a few steps down Mountain Road, by the bridge. Exquisite handcrafted jewelry, blown glassware, clothing and accessories in dreamy hand-dyed and woven fabrics, fine art, and more fill every corner of this gallery.

Continue along Mountain Road, where Robert Paul Galleries are devoted entirely to fine art. Farther on, look for the West Branch Gallery & Sculpture Park , with its outdoor sculpture garden.

At Stowe Mercantile , next to the Green Mountain Inn, you'll find a variety that ranges from kitchenware and Vermont-made jams and preserves to woodsman-plaid flannel pajamas.

The 1844 covered bridge over Gold Brook is best known for its legend, which accounts for its local name of "Emily's Bridge." The story goes that Emily and a young man were supposed to meet at the bridge and when he didn't show up, she hanged herself from the rafters of the bridge.

There soon arose tales of her haunting the bridge, of howling noises emanating from its interior, and scratches on cars passing through the 50-foot span. The dark interior of the single-lane bridge probably enhanced the ghostly legends. Sign boards beside the road elaborate on the story.

Address: Covered Bridge Road, Stowe, Vermont

The dramatic gorge with a series of waterfalls and cascades is hidden deep in the forest above Stowe. Because of its steep and unstable sides, getting close for photographs is almost impossible and dangerous, so a circular interpretive trail has been built around the outer perimeter.

Through the trees, you can enjoy vignettes of water breaking into white foam against the rocks as it tumbles over three falls and six cascades, each separated by a pool. The gorge is deep and precipitous, another proof of the power and persistence of water attacking schist, so respect the barriers that are put there for your safety. Signboards give information on the history and geology of the gorge.

Address: Sterling Gorge Road, Stowe, Vermont

In a former church at the center of the village, the Vermont Ski and Snowboard Museum is a fascinating place to spend an hour or more.

Gondola cars and chairlift seats fly overhead, and examples from each stage in the sport's history, from hickory boards to modern parabolic skis line the walls. Displays are devoted to Vermont's role in Olympic competition and there's a section on the founding and history of the famous World War II 10 th Mountain Division.

Changing special exhibits highlight related subjects, such as the artistry of ski and snowboard graphics and their creators. The monthly Red Bench Speaker's Series from September through April features speakers or ski-related films, and the museum honors important ski figures in its annual Hall of Fame awards.

Address: 1 South Main Street, Stowe, Vermont

Official site: https://www.vtssm.org

The relatively level terrain of this Stowe Land Trust property makes it perfect for family hikes and quiet walks to enjoy nature. Well-marked trails explore three habitats, including a vernal pool that's the spring home to frogs and salamanders, and a mixed forest of century-old conifers and hardwoods.

A meadow with views of Mt. Mansfield has old stone walls from the property's past as a farm.

Pick up a map at the trailhead, which is across a small wildflower meadow from Edson Hill Road. The parking area is almost hidden to the left just before the road branches into two private drives. Trails may be wet in the spring or after rainy weather, so waterproof shoes are a good idea.

The Wiessner Woods property was donated to the Stowe Land Trust in memory of mountaineer and conservationist Fritz Wiessner.

Address: Edson Hill Road, Stowe, Vermont

Official site: https://www.stowelandtrust.org

Two venues offer performing arts in Stowe: one in a modern facility at the base of the mountain and the other downtown in the historic Town Hall. The beautiful 1903 Town Hall Theater is on the second floor of the Akeley Soldiers Memorial Building and features a historic stage with a painted proscenium.

The Stowe Theater Guild presents four shows here per season (June through October) including musicals and straight stage plays. Recent shows include Our Town, Tru , and A Little Night Music .

The Spruce Peak Performing Arts Center is a modern 420-seat multi-use theater and concert hall with a year-round program that may include chamber orchestras, comedy shows, jazz musicians, gospel choirs, magicians, and other performers.

Stowe Theater Guild

• Address: 67 Vermont Rte. 100, Stowe, Vermont
• https://stowetheatre.com/

Spruce Peak Performing Arts Center

• Address: 122 Hourglass Drive, Stowe, Vermont
• https://www.sprucepeakarts.org/

The 1863 Helen Day Memorial Library, formerly the Helen Day Art Center, is now the home of The Current, a contemporary arts and education organization. Art exhibits fill the galleries year-round, and classes for youth and adults include subjects such as graphic novel illustration, puppet making, digital photography, watercolor painting, stained glass, and block printing.

The Art Lounge is a public space for research and relaxation, with a coffee bar, work stations, free Wi-Fi, a gift shop, and an art library. In the summer and fall, you can see the annual exhibition of outdoor sculpture on the library grounds and displayed throughout the downtown streets.

Address: 90 Pond Street, Stowe, Vermont

Official site: https://www.thecurrentnow.org

Approaching Stowe from I-89 along Route 100, you're sure to spot the signs for Ben & Jerry's. A stop at this Vermont icon is hard to resist in any season (Vermonters eat ice cream all yearlong), but especially in the summer, when you can enjoy the latest flavors under a bright parasol on the terrace.

You can watch ice cream being made and packaged on a factory tour when it's operating, and see a movie when it isn't; a free ice-cream cone is part of the tour. Or you can just enjoy the grounds, smile at the B&J bus painted with happy black and white cows, and pay your respects to departed favorites in the Flavor Graveyard.

"Headstones" for more than 30 discontinued flavors include epitaphs with the life history of each. Occasionally one gets resurrected, but you can expect to find long-forgotten names like Wavy Gravy™ and Vermonty Python™.

Address: 1281 3600 Waterbury-Stowe Rd. (Route 100), Waterbury Center, Vermont

Official site: https://www.benjerry.com/waterbury

While you're heading north on Route 100, your next stop should be for a refreshing glass of fresh-pressed apple cider, accompanied by a traditional cider doughnut cooked as you watch.

After shopping for all things made in Vermont in the shop that fills the former barn, watch barrels of apples bring pressed into the sweet taste of autumn. You can watch the process, which uses a traditional 1920s rack-and-cloth press, and buy jugs of sweet cider all year-round. In the winter, warm your hands around a cup of hot spiced cider, a New England holiday favorite.

3600 Waterbury-Stowe Road (Route 100), Waterbury Center, Vermont

Official site: https://coldhollow.com/pages/visit

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Stowe is the top place I recommend to those looking for Vermont vacation ideas . Stowe is the first place I visited when I traveled to Vermont, and it has remained among my all time favorite destinations. Gorgeous scenery, quaint, historic charm. Without a doubt, there are so many fantastic things to do in Stowe, Vermont , in every season.  I have visited Stowe countless times, and today I’m going to share my favorite recommendations for how to make your own Stowe adventure as wonderful as possible. By the end of thus post, you’ll have discovered 20 or more of the best things to do in Stowe VT, plus general Vermont trip planning advice, Stowe hotel recommendations, and more.

You’ve probably heard of Stowe. Home to one of the world’s oldest ski resorts, Stowe is world renowned as a winter playground, but it’s also beloved for its striking fall foliage, excellent hiking, and classic New England essence. 

Stowe frequently tops lists for the greatest places to visit in New England ) and is absolutely an essential stop on any New England driving tour .

Ready to plan your adventure to Stowe? Keep reading!

Table of Contents

Where is Stowe VT?

Stowe, Vermont is located in north-central Vermont, at the foot of Mount Mansfield, Vermont’s tallest peak.

It takes approximately 45 minutes to drive from Burlington VT to Stowe VT

When is the Best Time to Visit Stowe VT?

Wondering when to visit this charming Northern Vermont town?

If you’re trying to decide the best time to go to Stowe, it depends largely on what you want to do during your vacation! Stowe is a great all seasons vacation destination because there’s fun to be found year round there, but there are two seasons in particular that are especially iconic: fall and winter.

Fall is gorgeous, with that fiery Vermont fall foliage everywhere you look, and winter is an absolute must for anyone who loves skiing, snowboarding, or just playing in the snow!

But bear in mind that those seasons are also hugely popular with travelers, so the Stowe area will be busier and more crowded at those times.

You might also want to consider exploring Stowe in summer, especially if you’re coming to Stowe for its awesome hiking trails.

The lush Green Mountains never look so good as in June, July, and August, and there are tons of wonderful activities on the local calendar.

And what about spring? Though spring is typically mud season in Vermont, visitors to Stowe will find that the hotel rates are reduced, the crowds are nonexistent, and Stowe still retains that special charm and beauty it is known for.

Anytime of year, Stowe is worth a visit.

Read Next: The Best Time to Visit Vermont

What is the best time to see fall foliage in Stowe Vermont?

Should you opt to visit Vermont in the fall , Stowe is an outstanding destination for your trip. But when to come?

While it can be difficult to predict the exact dates of peak fall foliage in Vermont, predictions each year are very close, and even if you miss the official “peak” of fall color, you’re still going to see some glorious hues. 

Go Stowe , the town’s official tourism organization, shares that early September through mid-October is the ideal time to plan your trip to Stowe. I agree with this and would add that the best colors tend to be in late September and early October. But as always, this is weather dependent. 

How many days do you need in Stowe?

You could spend months in Stowe and the surrounding area and still have more to explore. But for most visitors, 3 days is probably ample time to experience the best of the region.

If you’re staying in Burlington, VT , you can also make a great day trip to Stowe. It’s approximately a 45 minute drive from Burlington to Stowe and you can absolutely condense the attractions into a day trip.

How to Get to Stowe Vermont

Stowe, Vermont is best reached by car, either coming via road trip or in a rental car from the nearest airport. 

Psst: Find the best deal on rental cars here.

The closest airport will be in Burlington, approximately 36 miles from Stowe (a 45-minute drive). Several airlines service this small airport, and rental cars are available here as well. 

You could also opt to fly into the Manchester, New Hampshire airport and Boston Logan. These are 149 miles (2 hours 20 min) and 200 miles (3 hours 7 minutes), respectively.

Getting Around Stowe

While you can find transportation from Burlington to Stowe without much trouble using a taxi or shuttle service , you will need a car to get around Stowe easily. Uber/Lyft and other taxi services are limited here (though they do exist). The town is also quite walkable and bike-able in many places. Overall, I do recommend having a car during your visit to Stowe.

Where to Stay in Stowe Vermont

I’ve got a whole detailed list of where to stay in Stowe that you will want to check out, but for a quick overview, here are four excellent places to stay in Stowe. 

Top Recommendations for the Best Hotels in Stowe 🍁Classic Stowe VT Hotel: Trapp Family Lodge 🍁Best Family-Friendly & Pet-Friendly Option: Stoweflake Mountain Resort 🍁Best for a Spa Getaway: Topnotch Resort 🍁Great Downtown Location: Field Guide Lodge

20 Best Things to Do in Stowe Vermont

Finally, let’s dive into the meat of this travel guide. These 20 fun things to do in Stowe VT must be on your itinerary !

Stroll Through Stowe Village

You can’t visit Stowe and not spend some time in the downtown village.

Downtown Stowe VT is postcard-perfect. The tiny Main Street is exceedingly charming, with the white-steepled church as its focal point.

Stowe was first chartered as a town way back in 1763, though settling didn’t really begin until the 1790s. Many of Stowe’s oldest homes (early 1800s) can be found in this downtown area, as well as several historic buildings. 

The Vermont Ski & Snowboard Museum (an interesting attraction in its own right) is houses in the old Stowe Town Meeting House. Built in 1818, this is the oldest active public building in Stowe and was originally located where the Stowe Community Church Stands today.

As you step back into history, there are also several downtown Stowe shops & restaurants you need to browse, such as Shaw’s General Store , Stowe Mercantile , Laughing Moon Chocolates , and Black Cap Coffee & Bakery . 

Read Next:  13 Best Restaurants in Stowe Vermont + Nearby

Bike or walk the Stowe Recreation Path

Just off of Main Street, behind the Stowe Community Church, you will find the Stowe Recreation Path , a 5.3 mile greenway that stretches throughout the town.

Main Street isn’t the only spot to access the paved path; there are several points to do so along its route, which winds from Stowe Village up to Topnotch Resort on the Mountain Road. 

This scenic greenway is an ideal spot for doing some biking in Stowe, (rent bikes from Ranch Camp just up the road) or even just going for a pleasant walk.  Leashed dogs are allowed on the rec path, and the path is even maintained in winter, so it can be enjoyed in all four seasons.

Seek out Emily’s Bridge

Among the many interesting covered bridges in Vermont is Emily’s Bridge, also known as Gold Brook Covered Bridge, or Stowe Hollow Bridge.

This bridge in 1844 is otherwise unremarkable, but for the haunting legend that surrounds it.

According to tales, jilted lover Emily took her life at this bridge after her paramour failed to show. Today, it is believed her spirit may haunt the bridge. 

Reports of supernatural activity have been reported with anecdotes circulating that include lights flashing, claw marks appearing along the sides of cars passing over the bridge, and more.

It’s worth checking out for yourself to see if you feel any spooky vibes!

Ride in a Hot Air Balloon

The best places to fly in a hot air balloon are scenic spots like the Stowe region. As you soar over the Green Mountains, you’ll have a magical experience.

While this might not be an essential Stowe activity for some, this is a lovely option for those on a honeymoon or romantic getaway. The small baskets of hot air balloons are ideal for two people (plus the pilot) and offer a true once-in-a-lifetime experience gliding over scenic Stowe, Vermont.

The Stoweflake Resort hosts the exciting Stowe Balloon Festival every July and this is a perfect opportunity for a balloon ride. If you don’t wish to go up in the air, you can also opt for a short tethered ride, or simply gather to watch the colorful balloons as they take off. It really is a unique sight!

Contact Above Reality Hot Air Balloon Rides for ride options at other times of the year.

Hike to a Cascading Waterfall

Mountainous Stowe is an excellent destination for those who enjoy hiking. There are a range of trails that will suit various levels of experience. (Also check out our list of the best hikes in Vermont ).

The Long Trail, which traverses Vermont from north to south, runs across Mount Mansfield in Stowe. You can climb to the top of Mount Mansfield via a few different trailheads, two of which are in Smuggler’s Notch.

Want awesome views? Stowe Pinnacle might be a good choice, taking approximately 90 minutes to reach the top.

Sterling Pond is another great hike, bringing you to an elevated trout pond. In the autumn, it is fringed with yellows and reds, making this one of the best things to do in Stowe VT in fall. You can continue on the same trail to the summit of Spruce Peak.

But a short and romantic hike option is one with a waterfall at the end, like these: Bingham Falls and Moss Glen Falls, both impressive and scenic, also are accessible via fairly short hikes. Enjoy the views or go for a dip during a hot Stowe VT summer!

For more detailed information, check out the Green Mountain Club –a great resource for information on hiking in Stowe.

Indulge in a Spa Day

After one of those epic Stowe Vermont hikes, unwind with a massage or other spa treatment. Better yet, book an entire spa day or afternoon for two.

The Stoweflake Mountain Resort has an insanely awesome spa, with some 35,000 square feet of space and dozens of treatments available.

You can easily spend blissful hours here, enjoying the steam rooms, sauna, jacuzzi, mineral baths, and quiet spaces.

The highlight of the Stoweflake Spa is their Aqua Solarium, complete with a waterfall pool, which is modeled after the real Bingham Falls in the region.

This rock-lined, warm-water pool allows you to sit underneath a 12-foot cascading waterfall which serves as a therapeutic massage for a tired neck and shoulders. Total serenity.

If you’re looking for what to do in Stowe Vermont in winter, add this to the list!

At the Stoweflake, you can book specific couples’ treatments. A side-by-side massage is a romantic choice, or meet in the Aqua Solarium following your individual treatments. Consider an Apres Ski Massage to soothe your tired muscles is or, if you’re after one of the signature treatments, select the luxuriant Vermont Maple Sugar Body Polish.

Check here for up-to-date pricing and access info for Stoweflake guests and visitors.

Hop On for a Horse & Carriage Ride (Or Sleigh Ride)

Many people travel to Vermont in search of a nostalgia for the past, for simpler times. Well, put away the electronics and enjoy nature on a horse-drawn carriage ride. What could be more nostalgic than that?

In the winter in Stowe, wheeled horse-drawn carriages become sleighs, ferrying you across a snowy wonderland.

Gentle Giants carriage and sleigh rides are located right on Mountain Road, and are open seven days a week throughout the year.

Take a tour (and take in the views) at the Trapp Family Lodge

The von Trapp family (whose story was told–and expanded upon–in the film The Sound of Music ) settled in Stowe, Vermont in the 1940s. When they emigrated from Austria, they chose to live in Vermont because it so reminded them of their beloved Austria.

They opened a guest house to welcome visitors, and the Trapp Family Lodge was born.

Today, this is an Austrian-inspired property that has gorgeous views overlooking Stowe and offers plenty more for visitors.

It’s worth a visit just to take in the mountain views from the parking lot in front of the hotel, but if you can, you should spend more time at the Trapp Family Lodge, or better yet, book a stay here!

Guests of the resort can join a number of interesting on-site tours for free, including von Trapp History Tours, Maple Sugaring Tours, guided hikes, and more. These are also open to the public for a fee.

If you’re traveling with kids (or if you just really love animals), hop on their Meet the Cows or Meet the Sheep tour to get a closer look at some of their farm animals. 

Their highland cows are positively adorable, and they look especially stunning with the Green Mountains of Vermont behind them! 

Looking to do some outdoor activities? The Trapp Lodge is a perfect place for this, with options available in all seasons.

This is a popular spot for mountain biking, cross-country skiing, disc golf, and more.

Truly, the Trapp Family Lodge is a phenomenal place to base yourself for a stay in Stowe. Full review of my own stay at the Trapp Lodge coming soon!

Sample beer at the von Trapp Brewery & Bierhall

Whether you’re a guest at the Trapp Family Lodge or not, visiting their Brewery & Bierhall needs to be on your list of things to do in Stowe.

You’ll get a taste of Europe at this family-friendly bierhall, or, as the sign reads when you arrive at the Trapp Family Lodge, you’ll get “a little of Austria, a lot of Vermont!”

What could be a more perfect union for Austria and Vermont than beer?

Come grab a fresh lager here and chat with your fellow Vermont visitors. The welcoming space is cozy and inviting, and not only are there numerous beers on tap, there’s lots of delicious food items to enjoy as well. 

Don’t miss the soft pretzels, chicken schnitzel, and tasty spaetzle.

Drive through Smuggler’s Notch along Route 108

Stowe Mountain Resort isn’t the only place for top “notch” skiing near Stowe. There’s also Smuggler’s Notch Resort (also known as Smuggs) in nearby Jeffersonville.

An important word of warning, though. The direct route between Stowe and Smuggs, Route 108 through the Notch is closed in the winter. So skiers who wish to enjoy both resorts will need to drive all the way around the mountain to do so.

But if it’s summer or fall and you’re not focused on skiing, driving Route 108 through Smuggler’s Notch is interesting and scenic. 

Driving this road requires a great deal of caution and patience. In the very heart of the Notch, you’ll soon understand why this road is closed in the winter (and why it is closed to vehicles over 40′ in length). 

The narrow road is a windy, often one-track lane that wends and weaves around intensely tight corners. It’s a wonder small cars can even navigate this road. 

Still, if you take it slowly and carefully, this road is a unique drive worth doing.

It’s also home to the trailheads of several great hikes. 

One more time: if you’re in a large vehicle, 40′ or longer, or a combination vehicle (vehicle with a trailer) 45′ or longer, it is prohibited to drive this road. Don’t become one of the stuck trucks the VT Agency of Transportation has to deal with every year!

Go Ice Skating in the winter time

When Vermont turns cold, the activities are still hot! There’s so much to do in Stowe Vermont in the winter months; known as one of the best ski resorts in the States, Stowe is awesome for those who like to hit the slopes.

But that isn’t the limit of winter activities in Stowe. Visitors can also have fun going ice skating. There’s an indoor rink right in Stowe Village, or, for a classic Vermont experience, go ice skating outdoors surrounded by an alpine-style village at Spruce Peak Village Center.

Tour the Ben & Jerry’s Factory

Oh my goodness, there are some fantastic things to eat in Vermont. One of these is the ice cream known worldwide: Ben & Jerry’s.

The home factory for Ben & Jerry’s is located in Waterbury, Vermont, just a short drive from Stowe.

One Route 100 heading north towards Stowe, you’ll come across the Ben & Jerry’s Ice Cream Factory, a colorful, cow-bedecked facility that beckons you from the roadway.

Head inside for a factory tour (breathe in deeply, the whole place smells like heaven), and snag some samples. Stop at the gift shop on your way out to grab some uniquely Vermont-y souvenirs.

Ben & Jerry’s is such a Vermont staple, you really shouldn’t miss it.

Sample more Vermont delights along Route 100

Ben & Jerry’s isn’t the only delicious spot on Route 100. There are plenty, so take time during your drive through the area. Here you can let your inner foodie go wild.

Next up is the Cabot Farmer’s Store where you’ll find the best cheese ever.

Cabot Cheese is known for their phenomenal cheddar.

In the store, you can sample this, plus about 20 other flavors.

As if that wasn’t enough, the store is stocked with all kinds of Vermont products: wine, beer, cider, jams, jellies, crackers, syrup, and more. Go ahead and buy your fill.

When you’re all cheesed out, go next door for some spirit tasting at the Smuggler’s Notch Distillery  and chocolate samples at Lake Champlain Chocolates .

Finally, drive a little further and stop for an awesome beverage at the European-style coffee bar located at the Vermont Artisan Coffee & Tea Company . A maple latte is always a delicious choice. 

You can’t miss this vibrant bright red building.

In Stowe itself, head to the breweries and the cidery for more tasting! You’ll find The Alchemist (home of the famous Heady Topper) here, plus Idletyme Brewing  and  Stowe Cider . 

Eat apple cider donuts at the Cold Hollow Cider Mill

Just a few minutes further down Route 100 is the Cold Hollow Cider Mill , an amazing spot that I’ve enjoyed visiting for years.

This is THE destination for apple lovers and one of the best ways to experience Vermont. Cold Hollow makes the best fresh apple cider and even more amazing apple cider donuts .

In recent years, they’ve expanded. Cold Hollow now offers hard cider (you can sample it right on the property) plus a tasty cafe called The Apple Core. It’s perfect for lunch.

Sail Away on a Fall Foliage Boat Ride

If you’re coming to Vermont for its striking fall foliage , prepare for some slightly crowded roads.

VT welcomes many “leaf peepers” each season, and traffic often moves quite slowly as a result.

Well, I have a better way for you to enjoy the vibrant leaves–with a fall foliage boat ride. Local fishing guides and suppliers The Fly Rod Shop offer an innovative fall activity.

Hidden away in the region is a stunning man-made lake known as Waterbury Reservoir. Here is where you’ll experience the foliage at its best. Away from the chaos of the roadways, your scenic boat tour brings you through a peaceful and quiet lake.

In the fall, there are very few people on the reservoir, lending the experience an intimate touch. It feels as though you’re exploring your own private lake.

If you’re looking for romantic things to do in Stowe, VT, this definitely qualifies. (Our guide told us that a few couples have even gotten engaged on the tour!) Plus, it’s just a cool way to experience fall in Stowe Vermont!

Your guide takes you out on the water in a small boat (maximum capacity of 2 guests) and brings you on a journey around the lake. It’s a surprisingly large body of water. When fall is at its most brilliant, the views will be remarkable. And with the reflection of the trees off of the calm waters, you’re going to capture amazing photos, too.

For more details on the fall foliage tour, or guided fishing trips with The Fly Rod Shop:  Fall Foliage Scenic Boat Charters .

Ride to the Top of Mount Mansfield on the Stowe Gondola SkyRide

You don’t have to hike to catch supreme views. Mount Mansfield (Vermont’s highest peak and home to Stowe Mountain Resort) takes visitors to the top via a Stowe gondola ride. In just a few minutes, you can be at a height of 4,393′ and look out over the valley.

The views are remarkable here from the pinnacle of Vermont’s highest mountain. On a clear day, you can see Lake Champlain, the distant Adirondack Mountains, New Hampshire’s White Mountains, and even up to Canada

The iconic bright red cars of the Stowe Gondola SkyRide stand out against the slopes, which are green in summer, multicolored in the fall, and white in winter.

If you’re not skiing down one of Mansfield’s many trails, you can ride the gondola back to the bottom.

As of 2023, the gondola costs $37 per person for adults and $25 for children 5-12. These are the prices if you book online (and you should, to guarantee your space on this popular Stowe attraction).

Looking for another way to get to the top of Mount Mansfield? Consider driving up the auto toll road. 

The zig-zagging toll road takes you 4.5 miles up the mountain, where you can stop and take in the incredible views. 

The toll road is open during the summer months and into October. Check the website for up-to-date schedules, pricing, and vehicle limitations. If you’re in Stowe in August and fancy yourself a worthy competitor, consider joining in the annual Race to the Top of Vermont, where hikers, bikers, and runners ascend Mount Mansfield as quickly as possible. 

Enjoy an incredible Vermont breakfast

There are many awesome places to grab breakfast in Stowe, Vermont . You’ll need a filling breakfast to ready you for the day’s adventures ahead.

This is definitely an essential thing to do in Stowe, in my opinion, and of course, you must pair your meal with authentic, real, fresh Vermont maple syrup.

Bon appetit!

Check Out the Stowe Arts and Culture

Stowe doesn’t just offer outstanding outdoor recreation; there is  an abundance of art and culture here, as well.

If you’re looking for a Stowe museum to check out, you’ve got it! There is plenty of arts and culture to take in, including theatre, live music, art galleries, and more, both in downtown Stowe and the surrounding area.

Check out the Stowe events calendar to see what’s happening around Stowe during your visit and what Stowe Vermont tourist attractions are hosting neat events; you just never know in Stowe!

Take a Snowshoe or Snowmobile Tour

Winter in Stowe is quiet, still, and renewing. Grab the whole family and head out on a snowshoeing or snowmobiling tour.

Adventuring in the wilderness together is a great way to strengthen your bond (followed by some fireside relaxation). 

Check out Snowmobile Vermon t which offers tours for both beginners and advanced riders.

And for snowshoeing, you can rent gear from several spots in town, or head back up to the Trapp Family Lodge for a group tour with their Outdoor Center.

Go skiing at Stowe Mountain Resort

Of course last but not least, one of the top things to do in Stowe is SKI! Ski enthusiasts love Stowe for a very specific reason: excellent powder!

Whether you ski or snowboard, Stowe Mountain Resort offers some top slopes. It’s been called one of America’s best ski towns with good reason. And if you’ve never tried winter sports before, it could also be a great place to take a lesson or two. Why not?

Non-skiers can choose plenty of other winter activities, or even head out for a bit of sledding.

Got kids? They’ll love Stowe, as it’s an ideal place for a family vacation in New England .

No kids? No problem! Recapture your own childhood with some old-fashioned fun. Local tip: there’s an excellent sledding hill behind the elementary school in the village. Grab a sled at a downtown shop and head over for the fun.

Stowe is clearly one of the best places to visit in Vermont, and these are just a few of the best things to do in Stowe Vermont! Beautiful in all seasons, Stowe is one of those towns I’ll keep returning to again and again, and I hope you’ll visit, too. Whether you’re looking for Stowe family vacations or a romantic getaway, I’m pretty sure you’ll fall in love.

Have you been to Stowe? Tell us what you think of this charming Vermont town !

More resources for your Vermont adventure:

• 10 Top Spots for Cross Country Skiing in Vermont
• Where to go River Tubing in Vermont
• Top 5 Places to go Dog Sledding in Vermont
• Where to Go Horseback Riding in Vermont: Guided Trail Rides & More!
• 7 Perfect Spots for a Vermont Weekend Getaway
• 15 Best Restaurants in Vermont: Where to Eat in VT
• 8 Charming Castles in Vermont

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22 Best Things to Do in Stowe, VT in the Fall—Ultimate Bucket List

Sep 8, 2022

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I'm a travel creator and influencer coach based out of Arizona. This blog is where I share the best itineraries for US & beyond, 63 US National Parks , and influencer tips . Read More About Me ⟶

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Maple trees, red and yellow foliage, warm pumpkin spice everything, scarves galore, leaves crunching like rice crispies under your feet. Itchy turtle necks that someone’s grandma sewed you—fall lovers like us obsess over this stuff. And guess what? There’s a city where you can enjoy all the things that make fall, fall, and more. 

That town, my friend, is Stowe, Vermont.

So that’s why we’ll cover the best things to do in Stowe, VT in the fall.

After taking a New England fall road trip three years in a row, I’ve come to love Stowe and its unique things. And we have 20+ of those unique things to talk about here!

So based on my experience, I wrote up this guide you can use while planning your visit to Stowe, especially if you’re a first-timer. Without further ado, let’s get right into it.

P.S. You should also read: Complete Guide to Stowe, Vermont in the Fall !

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But first, Is Stowe, Vermont Worth Visiting?

Yes! Stowe, Vermont, is worth visiting, especially in the fall.

In Stowe, you’ll find a unique blend of accessible culture and outdoor activities that are extra special in autumn.

Everyone should visit this Green Mountain town at least once in their lifetime.

Where to Stay in Stowe, VT

This is a bucket list type town, and there are some beautiful resorts!

Check them out:

• Timberholm Inn  ($$) —The Timberholm Inn is tucked away in the Stowe mountains. This is the perfect place to get your cabin fix in a cozy environment that’ll put you in the middle of prime fall foliage! 
• The Stowehof Hotel  ($$) —Staying at The Stowehof will make you feel like you’re in a European country. The views here are spectacular, but the interior is extra special. The beautiful fireplaces and library you can enjoy will be the perfect places to rest after a long day of exploring! Fab location too.
• Green Mountain Inn  ($$) —Located in Stowe’s Historic Center is this magical inn with an ornate lobby, romantic rooms, and a heated pool you’ll love! Being in the center of town will put you in the middle of all the action.

Click here to book your stay in Stowe, VT!

#1 Get Your Fill of Apples at Cold Hollow Cider Mill

If you’re a warm apple cider and apple donut kind of folk, you MUST make a stop at the Cold Hollow Cider Mill .

First, this place is SO cute, and second, the cider is the apple of my eye. 

They have everything from hard apple cider to cold apple cider to warm apple cider that you can sprinkle some cinnamon on top of. 

And, you already know, they have devilishly delicious apple cider donuts waiting for you.

If you get hungry, they have a little restaurant as well. 

You can book a tour at Cold Hollow Cider Mill or walk in and walk around/ enjoy the property. 

Read Next: Fall Weekend in Vermont

#2 Have a Fall Picnic with a View

If you don’t mind a short hike, you can go up to  Sunset Rock in Stowe, VT !

The trail to Sunset Rock is off the historic Stowe village and is about 1.6 miles round trip. 

Once at the trailhead, you’ll hike through some of the most beautiful fall foliage-filled forests you’ve ever seen. 

Eventually, you’ll be brought up to an overlook where you can see the Stowe Community Church and a birdseye view of Stowe’s Main Street . 

When you reach the top of Sunset Rock, you can rest and have yourself a fall picnic. Sunset Rock Trail is easy with a 100ft elevation gain. It should take less than an hour to complete.

#3 Enjoy Fall Foliage on Mount Mansfield

If you’d like a better view of some fall foliage and Mount Mansfield (the highest peak in Vermont), continue on the Sunset Rock Trail to Upper Overlook !

To get to Upper Overlook, you will hike a quarter mile past Sunset Rock. Now, If you don’t like hiking but still want the view, you can park on Taber Hill Road and walk a quarter mile along the Access Road to get to the Upper Overlook.

It’s worth adding it to your list of things to do in Stowe, VT for the views alone!

Read Next: Ultimate Guide to Stowe, VT in the Fall

#4 Take a Fall Horseback Ride

Another great way to explore fall colors in Stowe, VT, is by horseback! 

Via the Topnotch Resort in Stowe, Vermont , you can book a horseback riding tour. Topnotch Stables offers trail rides through some of Stowe’s most beautiful fall foliage. 

If you have family members, this is a great place to take them since everyone can enjoy the experience!

While this doesn’t apply to the fall season, the stable also offers carriage rides visitors can enjoy in the winter. 

Regardless of when you go, your best bet for booking a ride is to contact the stable at (802) 798-9769. 

#5 Drive to the Summit Ridge of Mt Mansfield

While Sunset Rock and the Overlook will give you a view of Mount Mansfield, you can actually drive to the top of that bad boy! 

Drive the Auto Toll Road to get to the Summit Ridge of Mount Mansfield. When you get to the top, you’ll be able to take in views of the Adirondack Mountains and Lake Champlain—ooo la la. 

This is said to be one of the best views in Stowe!

To access Toll Road, you will need to pay a fee of around $29 (which does not include taxes).

There are also the following vehicle restrictions:

• No trailers, R.V.s, campers, or vans converted to R.V.s
• No dually trucks
• No mopeds or scooters
• No motorcycles
• No bicycles

Toll Road is open daily (weather permitting) from 9:30am to 4:30pm from May 28 to October 17. The entrance is about 4.5 miles from Stowe.

When you reach the gate to begin your drive, an employee may greet you and give instructions for driving the road appropriately, so you don’t burn through your breaks (since the road is so steep). 

The road is narrow, so be careful when driving!

After you park your car, you can take a 3-mile round trip hike to the tippy top of the mountain and see more fall colors. 

#6 Take a Gondola to the Top of Mount Mansfield

Okay, so maybe driving a dirt road isn’t your jam. Well…

You could always take a gondola ride up Mount Manfield! 

This is a much more relaxing way to enjoy the fall foliage views. 

To experience the ride, you’ll head to the Gondola Skyride at Stowe Mountain Resort . 

It is open daily until October 17 from 10am to 4:15pm. Prices for rides are as follows:

• Adult (ages 13+): $35
• Child (ages 5-12): $24

You can purchase your Gondola Skyride tickets online , which I recommend to make things easier on yourself! 

As you ride the gondola, you’ll experience a birdseye view of the beautiful fall foliage, making this one of the best things to do in Stowe, VT in the fall. 

#7 Enjoy a Fall Lunch at the Top of Mount Mansfield

Want to hear something cool? When you reach the top of the gondola ride, you can sit down for a nice meal at Cliff House Restaurant, which is the most PERFECT spot to take in the Mt Mansfield views!

However, you must book your Cliff House reservation online to dine at Cliff House .

The menu has “American cuisine with a rustic Vermont flair,” complimented with local craft beer, wine, and cocktails. 

The Cliff House menu changes with the season and typically features lite bites like salads, wraps, or sometimes a special BBQ. 

Top Tip: This would be the perfect little date if you happen to be celebrating a fall anniversary!

#8 Stroll Stowe’s Main Street (A Must Thing to do in the Fall)

Main Street is where all of the Stowe, VT action is, and it is one of my favorite things to do in Stowe!

This is where you’ll find little boutiques, coffee shops, places to eat, and historic buildings.

I recommend starting your Main Street journey by Laughing Moon Chocolate and then making your way down to Black Cap Coffee. 

You can check out the Stowe Community Church or Vermont Ski and Snowboard Museum.

#9 Eat Your Fall Heart Out

If you’re a foodie like me, you’ll appreciate all the great places to eat in Stowe, VT. Here are some recommendations:

• Plate —A California-inspired restaurant serving locally sourced dishes and creative craft cocktails. Try the banana pudding, crab cakes, or a seared Faroe Island salmon.
• Harrison’s Restaurant —A Stowe favorite with a rustic interior. Here is where you can enjoy American cuisine with creative twists. Book reservations here .
• Butler’s Pantry —A MUST for breakfast. Enjoy pancakes and a plate of biscuits and gravy.

#10 Check Out the Ben & Jerry’s Factory

Love you some ice cream? Stowe, VT is where you’ll find the original Ben & Jerry’s factory!

Open Tuesday through Sunday, 11am to 6pm. 

This is where you can take the Factory Experience —a factory tour and see where all the Ben & Jerry’s magic happens.

When you’re done, stop at the gift shop, and duh, the ice cream stand to grab yourself a scoop of your B&J’s faves. Cherry Garcia, anyone?

During my visit, I loved checking out the Flavor Graveyard with flavors that didn’t make the cut—wa wa waaaaaa.

#11 Visit the Trapp Family Lodge

The Trapp Family Lodge is an Austrian-inspired lodge in Stowe, VT. You’ll probably recognize the name if you’re a fan of The Sound of Music.

The Trapps were fictionalized in the musical.

The lodge used to be the home of Baron and Maria Trapp after they escaped nazi Germany.

After Baron’s death, the family expanded the home and made it into a lodge visitors could enjoy. 

You can visit this beautiful property or book a room there ! Visitors can enjoy the resorts gorgeous outdoor area and food spots.

I recommend grabbing a lager at the von Trapp Brewery!

#12 Have a Spa Day

Stowe, Vermont, is home to some beautiful hotels and resorts offering amazing fall foliage views.

But do you know what else they have? Spas that’ll make you never want to leave.

Check out the Spa at Topnotch Resort.

Guests have access to a beautiful indoor swimming pool, jacuzzi, and an outdoor pool with jaw-dropping views of the Green Mountains.

It’s the perfect place to admire foliage after a massage!

#13 Take a Fall Foliage Bike Ride

Stowe, VT is surprisingly bike-friendly!

On a beautiful fall day, you can grab a bike from A.J.’s Ski & Sports , then head to the paved path waiting for you behind the Stowe Community Church. 

Stowe Recreation Path runs 5.3 miles and crosses over the Little River.

It’s a beautiful biking trail that carves through the woods, so you’ll be surrounded by trees and golden leaves in autumn.

Mountain biking more your style? Click here to book a Stowe mountain biking tour!

#14 Visit Smuggler’s Notch State Park

Most folks come here to explore Smuggler’s Notch Pass.

Smuggler’s Notch Pass goes through Vermont and has some fantastic New England views!

It’s well-known for its extremely windy road that bobs and weaves through endless fall colors in Vermont’s Green Mountains—don’t skip the drive!

If you want to hike around, check out Hellbrook Trail, Sterling Pond Trail, or Long Trail.

Additionally, you can spend a chill day in nature enjoying one of the Smuggler’s picnic areas.

To learn more about the park, visit VTStateParks.com .

#15 Hop on the Longest Zipline in the Country

In Stowe, you can enjoy one of the longest ziplines in the country: Arbortrek Canopy Adventures .

It’s one of the best things to do in Stowe, VT because you’ll literally be cruising through fall colors in a thrilling, once-in-a-lifetime experience.

You can learn more about tickets here.

#16 Get Lost in a Corn Maze

If you’re into spoooooooky fall vibes, a corn maze is probably the thing for you.

At Percy Farm Corn Maze , you can spend 30 to 40-minutes exploring an epically giant corn maze in the Green Mountains!

#17 Learn How to Make Maple Syrup

Ever wonder how this magical sugary concoction that dresses all our pancakes and waffles is created?

You can visit the Nebraska Knoll Sugar Farm and get alllll the deets.

And DUH, you’ll get to taste some of the maple syrup too!

The Sugar Farm is near the Green Mountains, so the drive there alone will be incredible!

#18 Chase Stowe’s Fall Waterfalls

You can absorb all the negative ions and fall foliage when you visit one of Stowe’s waterfalls.

Moss Glen Falls is one of Vermont’s largest waterfalls at 85 feet high.

To get to the falls,  drive to the trailhead  and walk a quarter mile—waa la, you’re there.

#19 Take a Scenic Fall Drive Through Mountain Road

Under and over and through the woods to the fall foliage you go! Take a seven-mile drive through the incredibly scenic Stowe Mountain Road.

You’ll get great vantage points for photos along the way, so make sure you stop to take some pics!

#20 Boat Through the Waterbury Reservoir

Head to Umiak’s Waterbury Reservoir at rent a few boats to take out on the water.

At peak fall foliage, you can enjoy an excellent New England fall experience and canoe through this incredibly scenic area while colors of red and gold dance along the shore.

It’s so scenic you’ll never want to leave!

#21 Exchange Ghost Stories with a Lantern Tour

Take a candlelight lantern through Stowe as you explore the city’s history and hear oh-so spooooooooky ghost stories.

The Stowe at Night Lantern Tours run in the fall and are a unique way to learn more about Stowe’s beginnings and the afterlife that run the city at night—BOO.

If you’re looking for spooky things to do in Stowe, this is for you!

#22 Walk Through Gold Brook Covered Bridge

Speaking of ghost stories, if you like haunted sites, you’ll definitely love Stowe’s Gold Brook Covered bridge.

Also known as Emily’s Bridge and Stowe Hollow Bridge, legend has it that Emily haunts the bridge to this day after a tragic story there. 

Regardless of whether you believe the legend, this wooden-covered bridge is in a gorgeous forest area, surrounded by incredible foliage and a little creek.

Top Things to do in Stowe, Vermont in the Fall + Map

• Get Your Fill of Apples at Cold Hollow Cider Mill
• Have a Fall Picnic with a View
• Enjoy Fall Foliage on Mount Mansfield
• Take a Fall Horseback Ride
• Drive to the Summit Ridge of Mt Mansfield
• Take a Gondola to the top of Mount Mansfield
• Enjoy a Fall Lunch at the Top of Mount Mansfield
• Stroll Stowe’s Main Street (A Must Thing to do in the Fall)
• Eat Your Fall Heart Out
• Check Out the Ben & Jerry’s Factory
• Visit the Trapp Family Lodge
• Have a Spa Day
• Take a Fall Foliage Bike Ride
• Visit Smuggler’s Notch State Park
• Hop on the Longest Zipline in the Country
• Get Lost in a Corn Maze
• Learn How to Make Maple Syrup
• Chase Stowe’s Fall Waterfalls
• Take a Scenic Fall Drive Through Mountain Road
• Boat Through the Waterbury Reservoir
• Exchange Ghost Stories with a Lantern Tour
• Walk Through Gold Brook Covered Bridge

Wanna see it all? Click here to book an epic Stowe, VT day tour!

If you need a map of things to do, I’ve created one for you below.

Click here for a live version of the map!

Tips for Enjoying Fall Things to do in Stowe, Vermont

Now that you know the best things to do in Stowe, VT, in the fall and beyond, let’s quickly go over some tips for your visit.

Get There Early

Stowe, VT, is a trendy and highly desirable tourist spot.

It’s surrounded by mountains and is the picture-perfect location to enjoy fall. That said, it gets jam-packed in the afternoon!

To enjoy the most out of your trip to Stowe, try to get there in the morning.

Then, aim to spend the entire day exploring.

Split Your Time

I recommend spending one to two full days in Stowe, VT, so you can enjoy everything this unique town offers.

Not to mention, the resorts are beautiful and worth the splurge!

Try to do one more “intensive” activity like a hike, zipline, or horseback ride.

Then, spend the rest of your time driving the mountain roads and checking out Main Street—that’ll give you the overall best experience.

Make a Trip Out of It

When you’re done exploring Stowe, continue on a New England fall road trip !

The New England area is AMAZING for fall, so don’t stop here! I recommend you visit a couple more epic fall locations like:

• Adirondack Mountains fall foliage in NY
• White Mountains in New Hampshire

Read Next: New England Fall Road Trip Itinerary

Head Over to Woodstock, VT

If you think Stowe is exceptional, you’ll also love Woodstock, Vermont .

Woodstock is where you can find more incredible fall foliage and the famous Sleepy Hollow Farm.

Woodstock is about a one-hour drive from Stowe.

Together, a trip to both cities will leave you lusting over Vermont’s fall colors after you go!

Overall, I love Stowe, VT, and it captured my heart every time I explored New England in the fall. I know you’ll love it too.

If you like this list of the best things to do in Stowe in the fall, please share this blog on Pinterest ! Thank you for reading, and I appreciate your support!

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I'm a burrito loving explorer who got fired from corporate America and turned that into my dream career as a photographer and blogger. Now I'm here to help you explore life's magic. Thanks for stopping by!

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STOWE, Vermont

A walkable downtown with well-preserved historic buildings wraps around the base of Vermont’s tallest mountain. From there, Mountain Road is six miles of boutique shopping, local dining, and family-friendly attractions , which can also be accessed from the five-mile paved recreation path. S ki and ride down Stowe Mountain Resort ’s rugged profil e . T he stunning , dramatic S mugglers Notch fram e s the town and the road winds over the notch from Stowe to Cambridge .

Stowe is stacked with plenty to do for the whole family. From rock-climbing, hiking, or sightseeing at Smugglers Notch State Park to exploring contemporary visual art at the Current, there’s always something new going on downtown. Whether you choose to explore the town on the Stowe Recreation Path , find flow at Cady Hill Forest, or take in the views at Moss Glen Falls, Stowe is home to incredible four-season recreation.  

Stowe Mountain Resort

116 ski trails served by 12 lifts beckon skiers and riders to this Epic resort. Scenic gondola rides, a restaurant at the top of Mt. Mansfield, and an adventure add to the skiing experience at the top of Vermont’s highest peak.

Moss Glen Falls

A short walk on boardwalks and maintained trails leads to a stunning waterfall to view from above or the ground. 

Stowe Performing Arts

Stowe Performing Arts brings live music to the meadow and to the downtown in the spring.

Smugglers Notch State Park

A narrow, winding road, open spring, summer, and fall for scenic drives, cuts through the Green Mountains. Lined with thousand-foot cliffs, Smugglers Notch makes for dramatic hiking, climbing, and camping with a wheelchair-accessible boardwalk.

Vermont Ski and Snowboard Museum

Explore Vermont’s ski and snowboard history, including the nation’s oldest organized ski patrol in Stowe and a look back at ski culture and art.

Percy Farm Corn Maze

This family-friendly corn maze is accessible from the Stowe Recreation Path and opens in late summer and early fall. 

Stowe Recreation Path 

At just over 5 miles, the Stowe Recreation Path makes it easy and convenient to explore Stowe on two feet or wheels, stopping to shop or dine.

Cady Hill Forest

Stowe’s flagship mountain biking network features 11 miles of trails, the iconic Green Chair Overlook, dreamy downhill and a flowy descent on Florence. Riders can also connect to other trail networks through Cady Hill Forest.

Trapp Family Lodge 

The first Nordic ski center in the U.S., Trapp Family Lodge has 40 miles of groomed trails and an additional network of backcountry terrain. The Lodge also offers mountain biking, hiking, and a bierhall.

Stowe Land Trust Conserved Properties

Stowe Land Trust’s conserved properties span the town, offering quiet places to walk, bike, and explore. 

Mansfield Auto Toll Road

4.5 miles of awe-inspiring natural beauty by car up Mt. Mansfield, Vermont’s tallest peak.  

The Current

Contemporary art from around the world exhibited both inside the gallery and seasonally outdoors in town.

Stowe Theatre Guild

Local performers stage seasonal adaptations of classic and modern shows in the historic Town Hall Theatre.

Spruce Peak Performing Arts Center

This contemporary theatre space attracts live music, lectures, and performances from around the world. 

Explore Downtown

Stowe is home to breathtaking scenic views, world-class recreation, unique cultural experiences, and local signature flavors at the foot of Mount Mansfield, Vermont’s highest peak. Hike to waterfalls and mountain views, bike through lush forests or a paved downtown path, and forge memories that bring you closer together.

Attraction Spotlight

Smugglers Notch

Smugglers Notch is known for its breathtaking natural beauty . The road is a scenic drive between Stowe and Cambridge, with the road nestled tightly between rugged, high cliffs . Nearby, recreation opportunities abound , from cross-country skiing to hiking to rock climbing to camping and picnickin g . An accessible boardwalk allows everyone to experience a segment of Vermont’s 272-mile Long Trail, which includes Smugglers Notch. The notch road is closed to traffic in the winter months, but opens as a recreation destination for skiing, ice climbing, and snowshoeing.

Event Spotlight

Stowe Winter Carnival

Annually in January  

Celebrate the winter season in historic downtown Stowe. As darkness sets in early, get cozy with hot cocoa and see the beauty of the season; during the day, enjoy snow sports, watch the work of master ice carvers, and get to know winter in its original state.  

Itinerary Spotlight

A Long Weekend in Stowe

Join outdoor adventurer Tyrhee Moore for a long weekend in Stowe, where he paddles at the Waterbury Reservoir, discovers Vermont’s world-class craft beer scene, and learns how to mountain bike at Trapp Family Lodge.  

Further Reading

Guided Adventures with Umiak Outdoor Outfitters

Whether you’re craving backcountry thrills or a more relaxed and scenic outing, Umiak Outdoor Outfitters offers guided adventures to suit a variety of tastes and levels.

Family Ski Trip to Stowe

From alpine skiing at Stowe Mountain Resort to a relaxed walk on the town’s recreation path, Stowe is the ideal winter destination for families.

Stowe’s Ranch Camp

Ranch Camp, a destination for Stowe’s mountain bikers, provides a gear shop and restaurant for fueling up.

Eat, Shop, and Stay in Stowe

Transportation Options

Morrisville-Stowe State Airport 2305 Laporte Rd, Rt 100, VT 05661

Local Transportation

• Taxi Service and/or Rideshare:    Blazer Cab, Stowe Taxi, Peg’s Pick-up, Patriot Transport, and Uber
• Bus services:   Green Mountain Transit Mountain Road Shuttle    

Discover More

Trip planning resources with Stowe’s local downtown organization. 

THE 15 BEST Things to Do in Stowe

Things to do in stowe, tours in and around stowe.

Day Tour through Stowe, Vermont

Burlington Signature Guided Brewery Tour

Smartphone-Guided Walking Tour of Burlington

3-Hour Private Sightseeing Outdoor Escape Game in Littleton, NH

Murder Mystery Detective Experience Burlington, VT

Burlington Blitz (VT) Scavenger Hunt

Magical Montpelier Scavenger Hunt

2-Hour Barre Bash Scavenger Hunt

2 Hour Private Outdoor Therapy Experience in Barton

Plattsburgh Prowl Scavenger Hunt

Top attractions in stowe.

Other Top Attractions around Stowe

What travellers are saying

• Moss Glen Falls
• Stowe Recreation Path
• Mount Mansfield
• The Alchemist Brewery
• Smugglers Notch State Park
• Trapp Family Lodge Outdoor Center

17 Amazing Things to Do in Stowe, Vermont (2024 Guide)

Searching for the best things to do in Stowe Vermont? Then you’ve come to the right place! This post is here to inspire you with attractions, hikes, and places to see in this gorgeous destination.

Stowe is a charming historic town in the northeast United States known for its glorious fall foliage, its covered bridges, and its remarkable hiking trails. Whether you’re seeking a romantic hideaway or an adventurous pitstop on a New England road trip , the attractions in Stowe will more than deliver.

Keep on reading to find out what are the best places to visit in Stowe Vermont and how to plan your trip.

* Disclosure: This post contains a few affiliate links, which means I may receive a small commission, at no cost to you, if you make a purchase through my link. *

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Table of Contents

Best Things to Do in Stowe Vermont

1. mooch around main street.

Stowe feels more akin to a village than a town and there’s no place better to soak up the vibe than Stowe Main Street.

Stowe Main Street marks the center of the town and is brimming with adorable cafés, boutiques, and historic buildings and churches. Get yourself acquainted with the atmosphere by going for a stroll, taking photographs, and picking up maps from the visitor center.

Ski enthusiasts might also want to swing by the Vermont Ski and Snowboard Museum .

2. Follow the Stowe Recreation Path

The Stowe Recreation Path is a 5.3 mile (8.5 km) paved walkway suitable for walkers and cyclists. It begins in the heart of historic Stowe and concludes at the Topnotch Resort on Mountain Road. 

As motorized vehicles are not permitted, the walk is peaceful and safe for families, runners, and dogs. The route features idyllic rural scenes and swimming spots that you can enjoy during the warmer months. 

The Stowe Recreation Path is one of the classic attractions in Stowe that is suitable for all levels of ability.

3. Spend a day at Smugglers’ Notch State Park

Access to the Smugglers’ Notch State Park is via a scenic alpine drive shrouded with trees. Once you reach the park limits, there are dozens of hiking trails of varying difficulty that you can choose between.

It is also possible to camp at Smugglers’ Notch State Park if you’re seeking adventurous things to do in Stowe Vermont.

The trails are broken down into walks of 1-2 hours ranging from easy to moderate exercise expectations, “wikes” of up to 3 hours, and hikes of 4-6 hours with challenging conditions. 

The road to the state park is only open during the summer months. Hiking trails and the campsite are accessible from late May/early June when the mud has dried out.

Even if you’re not big on hiking, it’s still worth driving through Smugglers’ Notch from Stowe to Jeffersonville and back. The whole route is insanely beautiful, especially when the fall colors are at their peak!

4. Experience history at the Grist Mill Covered Bridge 

The Grist Mill Covered Bridge is one of the numerous covered bridges in Vermont . The structures were constructed during the 19th and 20th centuries in the US.  Due to the state’s high number of rivers and heavy rainfall, they became a staple of the Vermont landscape. 

Sloping roofs meant that rain and snowfall would simply slide into the rivers without causing too much damage. They also provided shelter to walkers and helped with the transportation of livestock over the bridges.

Nowadays these bridges are one of the most unique attractions in Stowe Vermont.

The Grist Mill Covered Bridge is one of the more mysterious bridges. The engineer is unknown and it also is referred to as the Scott Covered Bridge, the Bryant Covered Bridge, and the Canyon Covered Bridge.

It’s buried among the foliage and you can walk down to the brook as well – it’s beautifully scenic. Bonus point is that it’s actually super close to the end of the Smuggler’s Notch drive in Jeffersonville so you can tick off both attractions in one day.

5. Catch golden hour at Sunset Rock 

Sunset Rock is a small public park atop a wooded hill in central Stowe. It only takes around 15-20 minutes to hike up the overlook which rewards you with a view of the town and Mount Mansfield.

As you walk up to the summit, pay attention to the paintings of local wildlife who call the area home. They were created by local schoolchildren and are really sweet!

You can visit Sunset Rock at any time of day. But, as the name suggests, this is one of the things to do in Stowe to coincide with golden hour. 

6. Tour a brewery

Local breweries are one of the top Stowe attractions for beer drinkers. There are several options dotted around Stowe where you can unwind after a day of hiking and exploring.

Visit the Von Trapp Brewery & Bierhall for Austrian-style brews and food that you can enjoy with a 360-degree view of the scenery. Meanwhile, the Alchemist Brewery tempts with seasonal creations and a summertime beer garden.

If you prefer cider to beer, make a beeline for Stowe Cider . They create blends mixed with different varieties of fruit and the venue often hosts live music acts.

7. Hike to the scenic Sterling Gorge Falls

Sterling Gorge Falls is one of the most incredible natural things to see in Stowe Vermont. It’s located in the Green Mountains and comprises a series of cascading waterfalls and pools. 

Access to the gorge is via a pleasant walk through the woodland from the Sterling Gorge parking lot. This is an easy hike that takes around 45 minutes each way.

8. Eat at a cute café

Stowe features an array of cute cafés and restaurants where you can indulge in a leisurely brunch, grab lunch, or unwind with a coffee. Stowe has all the charms of a classic small American town and it’s worth spending some time experiencing this in between ticking off Stowe attractions.

One place to check out is the Green Goddess Café on the banks of Little River. They specialize in breakfast sandwiches, pancakes, and scrambled eggs. The café features a homely dining room or you can grab a bite to go if you prefer.

Right in town, Café on Main is a prime spot to observe local life over a morning bagel. 

Meanwhile, Black Cap Coffee & Beer is a jack of all trades, specializing in coffee, craft beer, light lunches, and home-baked goods. 

Another great place for a delicious breakfast is Woodland Baking and Coffee where you can fuel up with locally made pastries and yummy sandwiches.

9. Hike to the summit of Mount Mansfield 

With a summit of 4,395 feet (1,340 meters), Mount Mansfield is the tallest peak in Vermont. It’s located a short drive northwest of Stowe and you can’t miss it while you’re in the town.

Hiking to the summit of Mount Mansfield is one of the most adrenaline-pumping things to do in Stowe Vermont. This is the best way to appreciate the soaring views of the state from up high. 

The loop trail is 7.3 miles (11.7 km) and takes around 5-6 hours to complete. With an elevation gain of 2,880 feet (878 meters), it’s a challenging hike that takes up most of a full day. Parts of the trail are steep and require scrambling and leaping over chasms so it’s only suitable for experienced hikers with a high fitness level. 

The hike starts at the parking lot on Underhill State Park off of Mountain Road. Alternatively, if you’re not up for a hike, you can take advantage of the Gondola SkyRide which takes you up to the top of the mountain without having to break a sweat.

10. Drive the Stowe Scenic Auto Road

The Stowe Scenic Auto Road is a tourist-friendly toll road that weaves its way up to near the summit of Mount Mansfield. From the top, you can enjoy views of the Adirondack Mountains and the Lake Champlain Valley.

You can drive up and then tackle one of the hiking trails at the end of the toll road. Otherwise, it makes for a great drive – even if you’re not planning to hike. 

Note that the Stowe Scenic Auto Road is only open between July and December. 

11. Explore Stowe Mountain Resort

Stowe Mountain Resort is the number one attraction for skiers and snowboarders. If you visit Stowe during the ski season (late November through late April) then you can hit up the slopes for a day or two.

Even if you aren’t a skier, it’s worth visiting the resort purely for the views of Vermont covered in snow. During the summer months, Stowe Mountain Resort is transformed into an outdoor paradise of hiking, cycling, and music concerts at the performing arts center. 

There is also an excellent spa that is open year-round – ideal for wellness seekers after relaxing things to do in Stowe. Also, if you would like to stay in this paradise, you actually can – just book a room at The Lodge at Spruce Peak !

12. Sunset Ridge Trail

The Sunset Ridge Trail is an alternative hike for exploring the area around Mount Mansfield. At a length of 5.1 miles (8.2 km) it is a little shorter and a fraction easier although it is still a moderate hike. In fact, parts of the Mount Mansfield Loop overlap with the Sunset Ridge Trail.

Much of the Sunset Ridge Trail is above the tree line so you benefit from exceptional scenery throughout the hike. The route doesn’t lead you directly to the summit of the mountain but if you follow the turn-off for Long Trail then you can tap on a visit to the highest part of the mountain. 

As with the loop trail, there are parts that require scrambling and navigating steep drop-offs. Neither of these hikes should be tackled during inclement weather or by novice hikers.

13. Visit the “haunted” Gold Brook Covered Bridge

The Gold Brook Covered Bridge is another of the fetching covered bridges that stud the state. This one is more commonly known as “Emily’s Bridge”.

Apparently, a young woman named Emily fell in love with a wealthier peer during the 1850s. The man’s family disapproved of the match due to Emily’s lowly status.

After a failed attempt to elope, Emily leaped into the Gold Brook from this location. Her ghost is said to haunt the covered bridge to this day.

The Gold Brook Covered Bridge is one of the most Instagrammable things to see in Stowe Vermont.

14. Eat the original Ben & Jerry’s Ice Cream

Ben & Jerry’s is one of the most famous exports from the United States. And the beloved ice cream was conceived right here in Stowe! You can visit the original factory in Waterbury Village – a short ride south of Stowe. 

Besides touring the factory and sampling the latest flavors, you can also pay your respects to the past flavors. The “Flavor Graveyard” is a testament to previous creations that are no longer available but provide an essential part of the brand’s legacy.

15. Walk to the Giles W. Dewey Memorial Bridge 

The Giles W. Dewey Memorial Bridge is yet another covered bridge that you can’t miss in Stowe. This one is dedicated to Giles W. Dewey, a local farmer, politician, and philanthropist who died in 2000.

This bridge is located in the town center so it’s one of the attractions in Stowe Vermont that you can visit without needing a car. The structure actually only covers the pedestrian part of the road.

16. Venture your way to Stowe Pinnacle

The Stowe Pinnacle is a 3.7 mile (6 km) out and back trail southeast of the town. 

The route is moderately challenging and is not recommended during the winter months. Snowfall is heavy and you would need specialized equipment. But during the summer months, it’s a popular trail with hikers and rewards you with fresh air and gorgeous scenery. 

The view from the top includes Mount Mansfield and the surrounding valleys.

17. Dip your toes in the Moss Glen Falls

Moss Glen Falls is a spectacular waterfall located in the woodlands northwest of Stowe. In fact, at a lofty height of 85 feet (25 meters), it’s the tallest waterfall in Vermont!

You can walk to the waterfall in as little as 20 minutes or opt to take a longer route of 2-3 hours. 

The short trail is easy and fairly well-signposted from the parking lot. Towards the end, you will meet a fork where you can either go left up a steep section to the right to follow the outer edge of the river to the base of the falls. 

Map of the Best Attractions in Stowe VT

Below you can find a customized map that includes all the locations mentioned in this guide about the best things to do in Stowe, Vermont. This way you can ensure you’re not missing out on anything!

How to use this map: This map is fully interactive, so you can move around, zoom in/zoom out, and click on the icons. If you want to see a larger map, click on the bracket in the upper right corner. To see more details and the different layers, click on the tab in the upper left corner. If you want to save it for later, click on the star icon next to the name of the map. Then simply open Google Maps either on your desktop or phone, go to ‘Saved’/’Maps’, and open the map whenever you need it.

Useful Info for Visiting Stowe VT

Where to stay in stowe.

Stowe is well-equipped with hotels, guest houses, and motels to cater to all travel styles and tastes.  Staying in the town itself is more convenient for shops, amenities, and restaurants.

If you’re in a hurry, below you can find my top picks for different budgets.

• Luxury: Trapp Family Lodge
• Mid-range: Tälta Lodge
• Budget: Green Mountain Inn

How to get to Stowe

Stowe is located in northern Vermont in the northeast of the United States. Burlington International Airport (BTV) is located 23.3 miles (37.5 km) away and it takes 45 minutes to transfer to Stowe by car.

Slightly further afield, Boston Logan International Airport (BOS) is 200 miles (322 km) away and requires a 3-hour drive. From downtown New York you are looking at a 5.5-hour drive to complete the 333 miles (536 km). These two airports offer more connections from European and worldwide destinations. 

If you are flying in from overseas or from the West Coast, you can make a decision over transferring to the local airport or turning the journey into a road trip.

Best time to visit Stowe

Stower is a year-round resort that offers something special for each of its four seasons. There are so many places to visit in Stowe Vermont that you’ll definitely want to visit more than once!

Stowe and the wider state of Vermont are known for their forested landscape which turns all shades of gold, amber, and honey during the fall season. Fall is definitely the best time to visit Stowe if you want to experience the beautiful fall foliage.

So if you’re planning to visit Vermont in the fall , don’t miss including Stowe in your itinerary!

If you are planning on hiking then the summer months provide the best conditions for exploring the local trails. July is the hottest month but temperatures rarely exceed 66°F (19°C).

Stowe is one of the best skiing and snowboarding resorts in the northeast. If you’re planning a winter break in the mountains, skiing is one of the most popular things to do in Stowe. However, be mindful that temperatures plummet well below 32°F (0°C) during December and January.

How to get around Stowe

The town of Stowe itself is very small, you can get around on foot or with a rental bicycle. You can walk to most of the things to see in Stowe center.

However, most of the landmarks on this guide are located outside the town. The best way to get around Stowe is by your own car or a rental vehicle. There is a limited bus service although taxis are available in the town.

During the winter season (late November through early April) there is a free shuttle bus service through Green Mountain Transit (GMT). This provides access to the local ski resorts. 

If you intend on getting around without a private vehicle then it’s worth downloading the Green Mountain Transit App .  

Planning a trip to New England?

Then you might want to take a look at all our other travel guides about New England. I promise, they are just as awesome as this article was!

• The Perfect New England Fall Road Trip for 2 Weeks
• Vermont in the Fall: Travel Tips & Best Places to Visit
• 16 Incredible Things to Do in Woodstock VT
• 17 Amazing Things to Do in Stowe, Vermont
• 17 Incredible Covered Bridges in Vermont You Need to Visit
• 81 Amazing Vermont Quotes & Captions for Instagram

New Hampshire:

• Kancamagus Highway Fall Foliage Drive: 9 Best Attractions & Tips for Visiting

Massachusetts:

• How to Spend One Day in Boston: Itinerary & Best Things to Do
• 13 Best Day Trips from Boston You Can’t Miss
• Where to Stay in Boston: 8 Best Areas & Hotels
• 133 Best Boston Captions for Instagram (Quotes, Puns & More)
• 19 Spooky Things to Do in Salem MA in October
• How to Spend One Day in Acadia National Park
• The Perfect 2 Days in Acadia National Park Itinerary
• Acadia National Park in the Fall: Practical Info & Tips for Visiting
• How to Spend One Day in Portland, Maine
• 5 Prettiest Lighthouses in Portland Maine You Can’t Miss

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25 Epic Things to Do In Stowe, VT (2024 Guide)

Packed for Life contains affiliate links. If you make a purchase using one of these links, we may receive compensation at no extra cost to you. As an Amazon Associate, I earn from qualifying purchases. See my Disclosure policy for more info.

Fun attractions in Stowe, Vermont for year round adventures await.

Nestled in between the Green and Worchester Mountain ranges, along the Little River lies the picturesque New England town of Stowe. Visitors will enjoy the many things to do in Stowe, VT from its magnificent colours in fall, and snow activities such as downhill skiing and cross country skiing in winter. To the leisurely or strenuous mountain hiking trails in spring or summer.

Opportunities for year round family, friend, couple and solo adventures abound, especially for outdoor and winter sport enthusiasts.

I was dreaming of a road trip with my family and Stowe Village and area hits all the things we look for, mountains, fishing, hiking, fun attractions, in a charming village with good eats, quaint shops, and comfortable places to sleep.

Read on to learn more about the best attractions in Stowe, Vermon t that also happen to be family friendly, where to stay and travel ideas by season.

Table of Contents

WHAT TO DO IN STOWE VERMONT YEAR ROUND

Lodging in stowe, vermont.

Looking for some well loved places to stay while in Stowe? Check out these highly recommended hotels and accommodations:

• FAMILY FRIENDLY: Top Notch Resort offers family rooms, suites and 2 bedroom homes which are a hit with familes, due to their laundry facilities, and plenty of space for everyone. The indoor & outdoor pools, and jacuzzi are a great way to relax after a busy day.
• SKI IN – SKI OUT: The Lodge at Spruce Peak (formerly Stowe Mountain Lodge) is located at the base of Mount Mansfield, and offers a variety of onsite activities for both kids and adults. Heated pool, kids night out activities, mountain access  to the gondola and lifts are just right out the door. Also open year round!
• MORE BUDGET FRIENDLY: Green Mountain Inn , is everything travelers generally hope for in a cozy inn when they imagine a trip to Vermont. Decorated with Vermont hand crafted furnishings, you can enjoy their heated, outdoor pool, a health club, a game room and a fire pit. Whip Bar & Grill features local farm produce and New England microbrews & their famous country breakfast.

1. Explore Stowe Recreation Path

The Stowe Recreation Path is a four season greenway running from Stowe Village to Top Notch Resort on Mountain Road.

Its flat, 5.3 mile (8.5km) paved trail is shared by bikers, runners and pedestrians in warm weather .

In the cold weather, join snowshoers and cross country skiiers for a little winter wonderland excursion.

You’ll pass covered bridges, farms, swimming holes, or take a short detour to one of the many shops and resturants that can be easily accessed from the path.

A great way to explore Stowe with your family is to take a relaxed bike ride along the recreation path. No motorized vehicles are allowed, so the littles (and their parents) have less to worry about.

Stop for a swim, and a picnic along the way. Not to worry if you didn’t bring bikes, there are a few shops in town where you can rent one, or five.

The Stowe Reacreation Path is one of the top attractions in Stowe, VT, so be sure not to miss a stroll, snowshoe, or bike long this scenic route.

2. Take a Local Brewery Tour (For Adults Only)

Love a good brew?

Tour the most iconic breweries and distilleries of Stowe on this fun half-day brewery tour .

Learn Vermont’s boozy history while being shuttled around to the areas 5 most popular breweries and distilleries.

Best part, you’re picked up & dropped off at your hotel, so you don’t have to worry about a thing.

3. Fly In A Hot Air Balloon

If you plan on visiting Stowe, VT in summer, you won’t want to miss their three-day Stoweflake Hot Air Balloon Festival. Each July, the town’s skyline blooms with rainbow coloured hot air ballons.

Don’t mind heights, join the multitude of hot air balloons dotting the sky, with mountains as your backdrop. Finding the perfect Instagram shot, just got easier.

Back on earth, delight in family friendly local entertainment, games, and kids activities like face-painting. Or sit back and relax at the beer and wine garden, while sipping your favourite beverage.

⭐️ Grab more New England ideas with our Rhode Island in Fall ideas

4. Play Mini-Golf at Stowe Golf Park

Mini-Golf, but with a twist.

Kids and discerning adults will love a chance to check out the Stowe Golf Park located in front of the Sun & Ski Inn.

This course is a real golf course, but in miniature. Expect 18 holes of landscaped rolling greens, and natural obstacles that would regularly occur on a full-sized course.

With gorgeous mountains in the background, who needs windmills? Be sure to watch out for hazards, sand traps, rough grass and trees.

Hours: Open from April until October, 10am – 9:30pm daily

Cost: $12 per round & 5 and under free

5. See A Show At The Stowe Theatre Guild

Stowe Theatre Guild puts on delightful performances for all ages mid-June to October each year.

Performing in the historic Town Hall Theatre, they usually produce four shows (both musicals and straight plays) each season.

Local theatre at its finest.

6. Visit The Vermont Ski & Snowboarding Museum

Housed in a converted church, the Vermont Ski & Snowboarding Museum celebrates Vermont’s ski and snowboarding history from the late 19 th  century to present day.

Inside you can watch a documentary on the history of skiing in the US, and enjoy their exhibits which range from ski fashion and historical equipment, to the 10th Mountain Division, an infantry unit in the US Armed Forces.

Be sure to also check out the gift shop, and their hall of fame, dedicated to honoring the athletes and pioneers of Vermont skiing history.

Hours: Open Thursday to Sunday 12 PM-5 PM

Cost: Suggested donation is $5/adult

7. Indulge in Lake Champlain Chocolates

View this post on Instagram A post shared by Lake Champlain Chocolates (@lcchocolates)

After a long day on the slopes, or an afternoon traipsing the mountain side, something sweet is next on the list.

Lake Champlain Chocolates, formerly Laughing Moon is a gourmet chocolatier located in downtown Stowe that cooks in-house their own truffles, caramel, buttercream, marshmallow, fudge and buttercrunch.

They are currently renovating (expected to reopen Fall 2023) with an expanded cafe menu and ice cream. So stay tuned.

Or visit their Waterbury store on route 100.

FALL & LEAF PEEPING IN STOWE

Fall in New England is enchanting, and one of the best times to take in the natural beauty of Stowe, Vermont. Prime time for leaf peeping runs from mid September to mid October. Check out Vermont’s Foliage Report for the current conditions.

8. Hike The Stowe Pinnacle Trail

Stowe Pinnacle Trail is known for its spectacular leap-peeping in Fall, and summit views year round.

From the summit you will have an unobstructed view of the Green Mountains, and Stowe village below.

This steep 3.7 mile (6km) hike has a few rocky sections, and takes about 90 minutes. It is considered a moderate to difficult trail, so not suitable for people with mobility issues, or very young children.

In winter, the route is snowed-in but can be accessed by snowshoe.

👉 Grab more Fall Family fun ideas with our Rhode Island in Fall ideas

9. Enjoy A Fall Foliage Boat Tour

Now if you are looking for Fall adventures on the water, the Fly Rod Shop offers seasonal foliage boat tours on the Waterbury Reservoir. Here you can experience the explosion of colours, in between two mountain ranges from the comfort of your chartered boat.

The tours typically run mid September to mid October and last about an hour.

Keep an eye out, you might even be lucky enough to spot whitetail deer, bald eagles, or an osprey.

The Fly Rod Shop also offers a program called Family Gone Fishing in warmer months:

• This 3 hour guided tour takes you and your family to a “secret fishin’ hole”. They include instruction and all gear. How fun is that. My ten year old would love fishing from a secret spot. Not just for fall!

Check out our 3 Day Stowe, Vermont itinerary for more ideas.

10. Percy Corn Maze

What is more fall than taking a tour through a corn maze.

Percy Corn Maze is a super fun activity for families that takes about 30-40 minutes. You can also feed their cute calves!

Plus it’s easily reachable by the Stowe Recreation Path, so make a day of it and bike up there.

Cost: $8 adults, $4 students & seniors, Under 7 free

Hours: 10am to 5pm (weather permitting)

More New England Corn Mazes in Rhode Island to visit .

11. Stowe Foliage Arts Festival

Every year in early October, the Stowe Foliage Arts Festival celebrates the most colorful season. With fine art and craftwork from 175 juried artisans, these artists exhibit and sell their crafs, as well as original art, photography, sculpture and seasonal food products.

The festival is a great place to get a head start on your Christmas shopping.

In addition to shopping, there is live music, fantastic food and craft beers. A feast for all the senses.

Many of the hikes, trails and activities we list below are also amazing for fall foliage views .

CAMPING, BIKING & HIKING IN STOWE, VT

Stowe, known for it’s natural beauty, offers world class trails ranging from easy to expert. Hiking is a popular summer activity around Stowe, and with over 40 trails to choose from it’s easy to see why. For some of the best hikes in Stowe, VT try:

• For short, gentle trails try the Wiessner Woods or Kirchner Woods trails.
• For a leisurely sunset walk, take the Sunset Rock Trail
• For spectacular views and a more challenging hike, climb the Stowe Pinnacle Trail (see leaf peeping above)
• For waterfalls explore Bingham Falls , Moss Glen Falls Trail or Sterling Gorge Falls

To do justice to all the trails would require multiple posts, but I will highlight a couple below.

12. Walk Wiessner Woods

Wiessner Woods is a 79-acre conservation area, maintained by the Stowe Land Trust. The family of Muriel Wiessner gifted the land in memory of her late husband Fritz.

The forested land has a network of well maintained trails that wind their way through the woods. This is a great place to enjoy an easy stroll with family .

Along the way you will experience brooks, foot bridges and many species of trees including maples, white pine, birch and hemlock.

Wiessner Woods is used for hiking, dogwalking, cross country skiing and snowshoeing. However bikes and snowmobiles are not allowed.

You won’t want to miss out on these special places:

• Meadow Overlook – for majestic views of Mt. Mansfield & old stone walls dating back to the 1800’s
• Vernal Pool – home to woodland salamanders & frogs.
• Spruce-Pine-Hardwood Forest – for 100 year old trees. Look for snowshoe hare tracks in the winter.
• Gnome Home – this one’s for the kids. Watch out for the Gnome of Weissner Woods on the way to the Sugarhouse Loop.

13. Sunset Rock Trail

Sunset Rock Trail is located in the heart of Stowe’s historic village. It is a fairly easy but steep 200 yard / 0.2km climb to the actual Sunset Rock. This lookout provides stunning views of Stowe, particularly at sunset.

Bring a picnic and let your family enjoy the sun as it descends behind Green Mountain.

If you are eager for more, the trail continues for another 0.25mi / 0.6km to the Upper Overlook for fabulous views of Mount Mansfield.

LOCAL TIP: The best way to access the trail is by foot (no parking) from Sunset Street via the Sunset Rock Trail. Follow the wildlife themed trail markers painted by Stowe Elementary School students. You can also access this trail at the parking lot on top of Taber Hill Road.

14. Hike To Bingham Falls

In summer, taking the short, fairly easy trail to the swimming hole at the bottom of Bingham Falls, should be at the top of your must do list.

Bingham Falls Trail is located in Mount Mansfield State Park , just outside of Stowe.

The 0.5 mi / 0.8 km out and back hike, can be accessed by either two paved pull offs via Route 108 / Mountain Road or through the Stowe Land Trust owned Mill Trail.

Its 72 acre property is popular with both visitors and locals for hiking, picnicking, swimming, cross-country skiing, and snowshoeiing. Which does mean it can be busy during peak times.

The waterfall is a series of cascades ending in a 40 feet drop into the emerald pool below. One caution, the last part of the climb down to the falls is steep and can be slippery. Make sure to watch your young’uns.

15. Camp in Smugglers’ Notch State Park

About 6 miles (9.7km) from town, Smugglers’ Notch State Park is open mid-May to mid-October.

Here you will find campgrounds with twenty campsites and fourteen lean-to shelters, as well as access to numerous trails, including the 273 mile (439km) Long Trail that runs the length of Vermont.

Not into camping? Still lots to do from the Day Use area:

• For an easy hike, take the wetlands boardwalk near the Barnes Camp Vistor Centre, or the popular Sterling Pond Trail .
• For a more challenging hike, the Hellbrook Trail is fun
• Picknicking
• Ice climbing
• Cave exploring

Smuggler’s Notch itself, is a narrow pass through the Green Mountains, surrounded on either side by 1,000 foot cliffs. The winding road is only accessible in winter by snowmobile or skis / snowshoes.

In the past, the “Notch” was a hot bed for illegal activities.

Following the US trade embargo with Britain & Canada, cattle and goods were brought through the pass from Canada in the 19th century. During prohibition illegal booze was smuggled from Canada to the US.

16. Mountain Bike Cady Hill Forest

Cady Hill Forest is abandoned farmland from the 1700’s, that has regrown into a white pine and hardwood woodland area. The forest extends 258 acres, 23 of which are designated as wetlands. 

The eleven miles of trails are popular with mountain bikers for the steep grade of the hill, and it’s switchbacks. Check out the trails here . In warm weather it’s also a popular place for hikers and dog walkers.

In winter grab your cross country skiis or snowshoes, and make some tracks. Although please note that some parts of the park are closed off in winter for the safety of overwintering deer overwintering.

17. Four Points Mountain Bike Tours

On the topic of mountain bikes, Four Points offers mountain bike lessons and guided mountain bike tours around Stowe. From beginners to advanced riders, they have lessons and private tours for all levels.  

Private Group Clinics and Rides are still available right now.

For a fun way to see the breweries in Stowe, VT, and a more adult centred activity, try the Four Points microbrewery tours. These involve three hours of mountain biking in the morning, lunch, and then a brewery tour to 5 breweries in the afternoon.

Or for a more artisanal flare, try one of their Specialty Tours. You will be transported to a local glass blower, a metal worker, cheese maker and a variety of artisans in the area. They can even tailor your tour if you give them advance notice.

Note: You must make advance reservations for your tours. You can book online.

MORE FUN THINGS TO DO NEAR STOWE

18. visit gold brook covered bridge “emily’s bridge”.

If you are looking for a ghostly encounter, the Gold Brook Covered Bridge , more commonly known as Emily’s Bridge should be on your list of things to do in Stowe, Vermont.

Legend has it that the bridge is haunted by a girl named Emily, who died there. Stories vary as to how she died, and there is no evidence she was actually a real person. However many people claim to hear strange noises, such as footsteps, and a girl screaming.

This small, covered wooden bridge was built in 1844 over the Gold Brook and is listed on the National Register of Historic Places.

19. Drive The Stowe Mountain Auto Toll Road

If you are keen to reach the top of Mt. Mansfield, the highest peak in Vermont but don’t want to break a sweat, the Stowe Mountain Auto Toll Road has got you covered.

The Auto Toll Road is open daily to cars (no bikes motorcycles, or scooters) from May to October most years.

The Toll Road is over 150 years old, and winds it’s way 4.5 miles (7km) to the summit.

From the top, enjoy views of the Adirondacks, the White and Green Mountains and the Lake Champlain Valley below. On a clear day, you may even be able to catch a glimpse of Mont Royal in Quebec.

The upper road also provides access to three trails, the Cliff Trail, Long Trail and Canyon Trail. All are about 1.5 miles long and climb about 550 feet. 

This is one of the most popular things to do near Stowe, VT.

Hours: 9:30am to 4:30pm daily (weather permitting), typically from mid May to mid October

Cost: $32/car and $12/passenger

20. Ride a Gondola To The Top Of Mt. Mansfield

If you are heading to Stowe in the summer or fall, another easy way to enjoy Vermonts highest peak is to take a gondola ride at Stowe Mountain Resort.

What, you don’t have to hike to the top, you say? Not if you don’t want to (though hiking up is an option).

Visitors can ride in style at Stowe Mountain Resort. The gondola is your sweat free ticket to soaring heights, that is unless you are afraid of heights. If so we suggest taking the Auto Toll Road instead.

Wanting more of an adrenaline rush? Try their zipline back down the mountain. The Nosedive Zip is 4,462 feet long and 180 feet high. There are also shorter options.

They have two side-by-side lines on each zip span, so you can experience the thrill with a friend or family member. Kids must be 10 years or older to zip. The Zip Tour Adventures are available with reservations Wednesday to Sunday.

Hours: Open daily from 10am – 4:15pm weather permitting, until the end of fall foliage.

Cost: Adult: $32, Child: $22, Family Pack (2 adults, 2 children): $93, Children 4 and under free

Can’t get enough of New England?

• Try Acadia National Park in Maine 4 Day Itinerary
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• Rhode Island: Fun Apple Picking Orchards to visit in Rhode Island
• Snow in Maine? Winter activities, weather and tips

21. Try Outdoor Sports At Stowe Mountain Resort

Writing about things to do in Stowe would not be complete without mentioning outdoor and snow sports.

This quaint town always makes the list of top ski towns and resorts in America, and is home to the most popular resort on the east coast, the Stowe Mountain Resort .

In winter, this resort offers spectacular skiing and snowboarding on Mount Mansfield and Spruce Peak. Head out on one of their 116 trails or try your hand (or is it foot) at nordic skiing on their 26 miles (42km) of groomed cross country trails.

With abundant snowfall, diverse terrain, natural beauty and a wide variety of winter activities, it is easy to see why it has been called one of the top ski resorts in the US.

Stowe Mountain Resort is also a fantastic year round destination. In warmer months it offers

• Mountain hikes
• Rock climbing

22. Tour the Historic Von Trapp Family Lodge

The Hills are alive……… Ok, I couldn’t resist. The historic Von Trapp Family Lodge was indeed owned by the very same family immortalized by Julie Andrew’s and the Sound of Music.

In the 1940’s the von Trapp Family moved to Vermont, and opened their rustic lodge in 1950. Family members still run the lodge today.

Here you will find amazing views of Stowe, an Austrian-inspired alpine lodge rebuilt after a fire in 1980, a brewery and brew hall, austrian inspired meals, and a 90 minute historical tour.

In summer they offer wagon rides, mountain biking trails and hiking trails throughout their property.

In winter enjoy sleigh rides on Wednesdays, Saturdays, and Sundays. Reservations are required.

You can also learn to cross country ski here, at the first nordic ski centre in the country. The Trapp Family Lodge is home to 37 miles of groomed trails.

Plus many more activities in and around the lodge.

23. Have A Spa Day

Treat yourselves or your loved ones to a spa day around Stowe.

Whether you’re staying at the Lodge at Spruce Peak or not, their onsite spa provides a sanctuary of calm and relaxation. Make a day of it and experience their swimming pools, healing lodges, and more after your massage or treatments.

Or book a massage and sauna session with the Calm Company.

24. Grab a Snack & Coffee

The heart of Stowe is home to some fabulous cafes serving up freshly brewed coffee and tasty snacks (& meals).

The Stowe Bee Bakery is the local’s choice. Grab a buttery, sunrise sandwich on home made biscuit, or a Cubano panini and a Trail cookie for dessert.

Grab a famous Maple Latte from Black Cap Coffee , or a local Vermont beer, cider or hard kombucha.

Visit Woodland Baking & Coffee for tasty Vegan Lunch Burrito, and a house made lavender lemonade. Run by a long-time Stowe resident, you can often find his family popping by for a coffee or breakfast before school.

25. Take A Day Trip from Stowe to Waterbury

Once you have exhausted all the fun things to do in Stowe, a day trip is in order. Travel the 14 miles from Stowe to Waterbury, along the Green Mountain Byway.

Driving in between the mountain ridges of the Green Mountains and the Worcester Range you will be blessed with stunning views of farmland, forests, open meadows, and three state parks. All set against the backdrop of majestic peaks.

Kid Pick: In Waterbury, don’t miss out on the Ben & Jerry Factory Tour , or one of the legendary apple cider donuts made by a Donut Robot at Cold Hollow Cider Mill . They also offer cider and hard cider tastings.

Alright, now that you have a starting list of all the best things to do in Stowe, Vermont , I hope this will inspire ideas for your next family vacation.

STOWE THINGS TO DO BY SEASON

Stowe, vermont fall activities.

Leaf peeping in Stowe:

• Hiking the Pinnacle Trail
• Take a Fall Foliage Tour by Boat
• Visit the Stowe Foliage Arts Festival (early October)
• Wander through a haunted bridge “Emily’s Bridge,”
• Bike the Stowe Recreation Path
• Hike in Missner’s Woods

Winter in Stowe, Vermont

All your favourite winter sports and Stowe activities:

• Cross country skiing and snowshoeing on the Stowe Recreation Path
• Enjoy the snow covered view of Mount Mansfield, Vermont’s highest peak from the Gondola Skyride
• Visit the Vermont Ski & Snowboarding Museum
• Spend the day on the slopes at the Stowe Mountain Resort
• Tour the Von Trapp Family Resort & take a winter sleigh ride, followed by a nordic ski

Spring and Summer things to do in Stowe, VT

From hiking & dipping in the river, to mini golf, and flying high in a hot air balloon, spring & summer in Stowe, Vermont is an amazing place to be:

• Stoweflake Hot Air Balloon Festival in July
• Take a half-day brewery tour to the most iconic breweries and distilleries of Stowe
• Taste some of Vermont’s top artisan beer, spirits, and food producers with a half-day tour
• Drive through Smugglers Notch
• Mini Golf at Stowe Golf Park
• Hiking one of the many trails; Wiessner Woods, Sunset Rock Trail, Moss Glen Falls, Bingham Falls & more
• Wander downtown Stowe and fest on some delicious food at places like pizza, burgers & wings at Piecasso, or sweet and svoury crepes at the Skinny Pancake
• Watch the sun set over Stowe, from Sunset Rock
• Bike the Stowe Recreation Path or Cady Hill Forest
• Drive to the top of Mount Mansfield on the Stowe Mountain Auto Toll Road
• Hit the road to Waterbury & take a Ben & Jerry’s Factory tour. Don’t forget to try the ice cream!

Final Thoughts: Not To Miss Activities in Stowe, Vermont

New England is such an amazing place to visit. And there’s so many fun Stowe Vermont activities for kids and adults year round.

Whether you’re looking for a ski adventure or to do a little hiking in warm weather, there’s plenty of outdoor activities to try.

Related Travel Articles:

• Easy Money Saving Tips for a Frugal Road Trip
• 50+ Fun & Unique Gifts for Travel Lovers
• Best places to visit in winter, in the USA

Donna Garrison is the founder of Packed for Life, an ever curious traveler with a passion for making memories with her family. With a unique perspective on travelling on a budget gathered over 30 years, 20 countries and 5 continents she gives families the tools & resources they need to experience the joys of travelling more for less through practical solutions. She helps over 20,000 families a month plan & take the family travel, camping and road trip adventures of their dreams in Canada, the USA and around the world. Contact her at: Donna [at] packedforlife.com

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21 Comments

• Pingback: Bucket List Ideas: 100+Fun Family Activities | Packed for Life

Sounds like a lovely place to visit.

Oh wow. Looks so amazing. Always knew about fall foliage in Vermont, but had no idea it’s so beautiful. Are these recent pictures ?

I’d love to visit Vermont! It looks beautiful.

I have not been to Vermont yet. I would enjoy visiting to see the trees change colors.

The last time we were in Vermont was 12 years ago and we visited the Von Trapp Family Lodge. It was so cool to see in person! I may have belted out a few lines from “The Sound of Music” also! 😉

We lived in Vermont for five years and Route 100 and Stowe/Waterbury were favorite places to visit ourselves as well as take visitors. We are way overdue for a visit and I’m sure so much has changed since we lived there. Love your list of top things to do!

It really does look like a fantastic place to visit (or live). It is always interesting to revist a place you lived to see what changes have happened. I grew up in Victoria, BC and we visit family there yearly. It always amazes me how much has changed in the past 20 years. Not all of it good.

What an extensive list! It’s hard to pick just one!

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33 Things to Do in the Stowe Vermont, Bucket List Experiences

Top things to do in the stowe vermont.

If you are planning a trip to Stowe Vermont and looking for the best things to do, see and eat while visiting, you are in the right place.  Stowe is a historic village full of adventure activities, waterfalls, hiking, swimming holes, cider donuts, and covered bridges. Browse the list of must-see attractions, off-the-beaten-path experiences, outdoor activities, and museums to create your personal Stowe Vermont bucket list. Then, plan the itinerary for your Stowe trip with these top things to do, see, and eat. Enjoy your time out of the office!

READ 10 Day Road Trip Through Maine, New Hampshire, and Vermont

Things to Do in and Around Stowe Vermont

Ride the gondola up Mount Mansfield

Have lunch with a view at Cliff House Restaurant

Walk the recreational path through the village

Zipline, rock climb, and do the aerial ropes at Stowe Mountain Resort

Kayak at Waterbury Center State Park

Canoe the Lamoille or Winooski River

Shop for souvenirs on Main Street

Go mountain biking in Four Points or Cady Hill Forest

Eat apple cider donuts in the Stowe Cider tasting room

Visit the Ski and Snowboard Museum

Go for a hike on the Pinnacle Trail

Take a tour of the Ben and Jerry’s Factory

Take a Sound of Music history tour of Trapp Family Lodge

Swim in Foster’s Natural Swimming Hole

Go for a swim at Bingham Falls

Sample cheese at Cabot Cheese Factory

Enjoy tea at Fledermaus Teahouse

Hike to Moss Glen Falls

Play a round of golf at Stowe Golf Park

Take a walk through Wiessner Woods

Watch a chocolate dipping demonstration at Laughing Moon Chocolates

Drive the Stowe Toll Road and take in the views

Hike to Sterling Falls Gorge

Photograph the Gold Brook Covered Bridge

Play giant outdoor games and eat gourmet snow cones at Jackwax

Take a brewery tour

Go fly fishing with the Fly Rod Shop

Hike the Sunset Rock Trail for sunset views

Go on a Llama Trek at Smuggler’s Notch

Participate in a vodka tasting at Smuggler’s Notch Distillery

Hike the maple walking trail and buy souvenirs at Bragg Farm Sugar House

Check out the West Branch Gallery and Sculpture Garden

Be sure to check the Stowe Vermont Tourism Board website for upcoming festivals, special events, and what’s happening during your stay.

Bookmark and Pin Things to Do in Stowe Vermont

Plan Your Stowe Vermont Trip

Vermont travel guide.

Pick up a Vermont Travel Guide from Amazon.com to browse on the plane.

Book Your Accommodation in Stowe Vermont Now

Spending the night? Search Booking.com and VRBO in one place to find the perfect property!

Vermont Attractions and Day Tours

The best attractions sell out! Don’t chance it, get your tickets now and relax when you arrive.

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Have a great vacation!

I wonder how the apple cider donuts taste. Have never come across one. Are they a huge specialty here? Loved the place in general – it looks very refreshing,

They are popular locally and they were really good!

What a beautiful place. So many things to do. So when we come to US next time, we will pay a visit to Stowe village for sure.

It is so beautiful in Vermont. I cannot wait to visit

Not going to lie. I was super jealous when I read this post. I’ve always wanted to do a maple tour and try maple syrup right from the source. I’ve also always wanted to see the covered bridges of Vermont (or anywhere, really). Sounds like you got to do both! And quite a few other things as well?!

This would be an amazing itinerary in the Fall!

Such a lot of interesting stuff to do in Stowe Vermont. I would love to Walk the recreational path through the village and shop for souvenirs there.

It’s a really pretty town

I’d love to try those apple cider donuts and hike the gorge. Anytime you say sunset walk that gets me too. Looks like I need to spend more time in Vermont.

The donuts were sooo good! And inexpensive

Vermont is absolutely beautiful! I love the wooded areas, it is photogenic around every corner! xo – Kam

Vermont is such a beautiful place to explore! I love all of the trees and rivers/bridges. xo – Kam

I was obsessed with the covered bridges!

I’ve taken the Ben and Jerrys tour with my kids when they were young. It was awesome and probably my younger child’s first taste of ice cream. I do like all the old covered bridges in Vermont.

Great place to have ice cream for the first time!

There seems to be quite a lot in the small village of Stowe. My husband loves fly fishing and this seems to be quite the place for it. I always wanted to visit Vermont and photograph one of those covered bridges. There is something so mysterious about them, isn’t it?

There are quite a few, it was fun to track them down!

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• The Northern United States' 7 Most Underrated Towns To Visit In 2024

Often overshadowed by the constant sunshine experienced in the southern portion of America, the Northern United States has long been hiding some of the most incredible towns offering hidden histories, outdoor adventures, and some small-town hospitality.

The Northern United States contains some of America’s largest metropolitan areas, such as New York City , Chicago , and Detroit , which have long served as popular tourist destinations for visitors from around the globe. However, the lesser-known side of things hides between these major tourist destinations. Whether you discover these towns by taking the wrong off-ramp or planning out weeks in advance, these seven underrated towns should sit atop your list of places to visit in 2024.

Lake Placid, New York

This scenic New York town hides amongst the towering Adirondack range and is home to some of the best outdoor adventures offered within America, regardless of the season.

With that being said, Lake Placid is particularly known for its world-class skiing and snowboarding opportunities. The town hosted the Winter Olympics twice, in 1932 and 1980. Visitors can explore the history of the Olympics by touring the many Olympic sites located throughout the town. Stop by the Lake Placid Olympic Center to witness where history was made or stand tall at the former Olympic Jumping Complex. Visitors can even shred some powder down the same runs that Olympians once sped down at Whiteface Mountain, one of the region's tallest mountains.

As the snow melts, the newly forested mountains provide perfect opportunities for visitors to get out and explore the Adirondacks. Begin your summit of nearby Mt. Van Hoevenberg to obtain one of the best panoramic views of Lake Placid. For the more casual hiker, Cobble Hill trails provide the same scenic beauty without the steep summits, which makes it the perfect place for a family outing.

New Buffalo, Michigan

Now, there are no hard feelings towards those who don’t necessarily associate pristine sandy beaches and crystal-clear water with the state of Michigan , but New Buffalo often surprises those who stumble upon this lakeside oasis.

Start your visit by setting up shop on the sandy dunes of New Buffalo City Beach. The beach is the perfect place to spend a hot summer day on the shores of Lake Michigan . If sitting on the sandy beaches of New Buffalo isn’t close enough to the water, then get out on the water itself by booking a sailing excursion with New Buffalo Sailing Excursions, which will take you out into the rolling waves of the lake.

There are also numerous must-see attractions within the town itself. Head over to the New Buffalo Art Gallery, which features works from local artists that help capture the town’s lakeside charm. Situated on the former grounds of the largest railroad in Michigan, The New Buffalo Railroad Museum showcases the railroad’s importance to the town and the region itself.

Big Fork, Montana

Whether you’re visiting during the snowfalls of winter, the blossoming of spring, or the falling leaves during autumn, Big Fork has more than enough to keep you busy regardless of the season.

There is no shortage of outdoor adventure in this scenic Montana town. Adventures range from shredding through the freshly fallen snow as a team of huskies pulls you after booking a dogsledding trip with Base Camp Bigfork dogsledding guides. Or, when the temperatures climb amid summer, take a scenic paddle on the open waters of Flathead Lake or experience a laidback trip down the Swan River.

If you prefer the relative comfort of air conditioning and heating, stay indoors and tour the many fine art galleries in the town. Explore the creative pieces at Art Fusion Gallery or a more traditional approach at Eric Thorsen’s Fine Art Gallery. If you truly want to experience local culture, put on your finest cowboy boots and head over to Bigfork Art & Cultural Center and schedule a weekly line dancing class.

Devil’s Lake, North Dakota

Don’t let the town’s name scare you off. Devil’s Lake is as welcoming as any other town and offers a unique getaway that can’t be matched anywhere. Whether you are searching for a place to land the fish of a lifetime or explore the pioneer history of the great plains, Devil’s Lake has you covered.

It doesn’t matter if you’re an avid angler or a first-timer, Devil’s Lake has been named one of the top five fishing lakes in the US, meaning that your chances of reeling one in are pretty good. Schedule a fishing excursion with A and H Guide Service to show you the hotspots. If you prefer the stability of land, plan an outing at Grahams Island State Park, which features campsites, beaches, and hiking trails along Devil’s Lake’s shores.

The town also holds some fascinating historical attractions. Tour through a former outpost that once protected vital supplies across the Great Plains. The Fort Totten State Historic Site remains as it was in the late 1800s, and visitors can walk the grounds and immerse themselves in the past.

Cheboygan, Michigan

Resting along the banks of Lake Huron , Cheboygan is only 120 km from the neighbors of the north in Canada . One of Cheboygan's biggest draws is undoubtedly the natural beauty, and those who visit capitalize on the town’s “under the radar” status. Days are best spent in Cheboygan by getting outdoors, so spend your days hiking through the forests as great outdoors as nearby state parks, such as Cheboygan State Park or Aloha State Park, which offer well-maintained trails and scenic views of Lake Huron.

Visitors can also entrench themselves in the fascinating history of not just Lake Huron but all the great lakes by visiting the Inland Waterway Historical Society Museum. Visitors can explore early relics of the brave sailors who voyaged across the Great Lakes and even better understand how vital shipping routes through the lakes remain today. Visit the town’s beacon of hope. The Cheboygan River Front Range Lighthouse has been guiding weary sailors to the safety of shore since its creation in 1880.

Stowe, Vermont

Despite being recognized as one of the premier destinations for skiers and snowboarders, Stowe has plenty of other attractions often overshadowed by the pristine ski havens nearby. Luckily, those who visit can experience unique attractions without the hustle and bustle of large crowds.

It’s worth noting that the town’s ability to provide high-quality winter experiences should not be understated. Prominent ski resorts such as Stowe Mountain Resort and Smugglers' Notch Resort offer plenty of trails suited for beginners and experts alike.

The town comes to life as the snow melts and dense forests become alive with vibrant green foliage. Trade in the ski boots for hiking boots, take to the trails and hike to the top of nearby Mount Mansfield, Vermont's highest peak. For those who want to stand atop Vermont’s highest peak but don’t want to break a sweat doing it, take a ride along the Gondola SkyRide, which will drop you off amidst the mountain tops of Vermont.

Bar Harbor, Maine

You’ll want to bring your appetite to this coastal town as it is home to some of the freshest seafood in the world. Bar Harbor was founded in 1796 and has long been a place of salvation for weary seamen from the Atlantic Ocean .

Unsurprisingly, the town has over 220 years of maritime heritage that await your exploration. Head over to the George B. Dorr Museum of Natural History to explore the town’s hidden histories and the natural wonders of Maine . If a museum experience isn’t your forte, get outdoors and venture into Acadia National Park , which features everything from woodlands to rocky beaches and even the towering Cadillac Mountain, one of the highest points within 25 miles of the eastern coastline.

After a long day of adventure, sit at the Bar Harbor town pier and enjoy a beverage and a plate of fresh seafood at the Eagle’s Nest as the sun sets on your day in Maine’s coastal retreat.

So, now that the new year is officially underway, and you have a refreshed number of vacation days, consider taking a chance on the smaller towns with big excitement that hide throughout America’s Northern states. Whether you’re considering taking a weekend vacation or planning a cross-country road trip, add these seven underrated towns to the top of your travel destination lists.

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9 Best Things to Do in Stowe May 2024

Columbus weather in may 2024 and best places to visit, 9 best things to do in telluride may 2024.

Are you planning a trip to Columbus, Ohio in May 2024? If so, you’re in for a treat! May is a beautiful time to visit Columbus, with warm temperatures and plenty of sunshine. The average high temperature in May is 75 degrees Fahrenheit (24 degrees Celsius), and the average low temperature is 55 degrees Fahrenheit (13 degrees Celsius). There is a slight chance of rain in May, but it is typically light and brief.

In addition to the great weather, May is also a great time to visit Columbus because there are many events and activities happening throughout the city. One of the most popular events in May is the Columbus Arts Festival, which features the work of over 200 artists from around the country. Other popular events in May include the Doo Dah Parade, the Greek Festival, and the German Village Haus und Garten Tour.

If you’re looking for things to do in Columbus in May, there are plenty of options to choose from. You can visit the Franklin Park Conservatory and Botanical Gardens, explore the Short North Arts District, or take a walk or bike ride along the Scioto Mile. You can also visit the Ohio Statehouse, the Columbus Museum of Art, or the COSI science museum.

No matter what you choose to do, you’re sure to have a great time in Columbus in May. The weather is perfect, there are plenty of events and activities to choose from, and the city is full of friendly people and great food.

Columbus Weather in May 2024

As mentioned above, the weather in Columbus in May is typically warm and sunny. The average high temperature is 75 degrees Fahrenheit (24 degrees Celsius), and the average low temperature is 55 degrees Fahrenheit (13 degrees Celsius). There is a slight chance of rain in May, but it is typically light and brief.

Here is a more detailed look at the weather in Columbus in May 2024:

• Average high temperature: 75 degrees Fahrenheit (24 degrees Celsius)
• Average low temperature: 55 degrees Fahrenheit (13 degrees Celsius)
• Average precipitation: 3.5 inches
• Average number of rainy days: 10

Best Places to Visit in Columbus in May

There are many great places to visit in Columbus in May. Here are a few of our favorites:

• Franklin Park Conservatory and Botanical Gardens: This is a beautiful botanical garden with over 100 acres of gardens, greenhouses, and exhibits. It’s a great place to visit any time of year, but it’s especially beautiful in May when the flowers are in bloom.
• Short North Arts District: This is a vibrant arts district with over 100 art galleries, boutiques, and restaurants. It’s a great place to browse for unique gifts, see local art, and enjoy a meal or drink.
• Scioto Mile: This is a beautiful riverfront park with walking and biking trails, playgrounds, and public art. It’s a great place to get some exercise, enjoy the outdoors, and take in the views of the city.
• Ohio Statehouse: This is the state capitol building of Ohio. It’s a beautiful building with a rich history. You can take a guided tour of the Statehouse or simply admire it from the outside.
• Columbus Museum of Art: This is one of the largest art museums in the Midwest. It has a collection of over 50,000 works of art from around the world. It’s a great place to see a variety of art, from ancient Egyptian artifacts to contemporary paintings.
• COSI science museum: This is a hands-on science museum with over 300 exhibits. It’s a great place to learn about science and technology in a fun and interactive way.

Columbus is a diverse city with a rich culture. The city is home to a variety of ethnic groups, and this diversity is reflected in the city’s food, music, and art. Columbus is also home to a number of cultural institutions, such as the Columbus Symphony Orchestra, the Columbus Museum of Art, and the Wexner Center for the Arts.

Best Months to Visit

Columbus is a great city to visit any time of year, but May is a particularly good time to visit due to the warm weather and the many events and activities that happen during the month. Other good months to visit Columbus include September and October, when the weather is still mild and the leaves are changing color.

Nearby Transportation

Columbus is easily accessible by car, plane, or train. The city is served by the John Glenn Columbus International Airport (CMH), which is located about 10 miles from downtown Columbus. Columbus is also a major railroad hub, and the city is served by Amtrak trains. There is also a public transportation system in Columbus, which includes buses and a light rail system.

Columbus is a great city for foodies. The city is home to a variety of restaurants, serving everything from American cuisine to international fare. Some of the most popular local dishes include buckeyes (peanut butter balls dipped in chocolate), chili, and goetta (a sausage made from pork, beef, and oats). Columbus is also home to a number of craft breweries, and the city has a thriving craft beer scene.

Best Hotels

There are a number of great hotels in Columbus. Here are a few of our favorites:

• The Hilton Columbus Downtown: This is a luxury hotel located in the heart of downtown Columbus. It offers stunning views of the city, and it has a variety of amenities, including a rooftop pool, a fitness center, and a spa.
• The Le Meridien Columbus, The Joseph: This is a stylish hotel located in the Short North Arts District. It has a rooftop bar with stunning views of the city, and it offers a variety of amenities, including a fitness center and a spa.
• The Graduate Columbus: This is a quirky hotel located near the Ohio State University campus. It has a rooftop bar with stunning views of the city, and it offers a variety of amenities, including a fitness center and a pool.

Columbus is a great city to visit any time of year, but May is a particularly good time to visit due to the warm weather and the many events and activities that happen during the month. Whether you’re interested in art, history, science, or food, you’re sure to find something to love in Columbus. So what are you waiting for? Start planning your trip today!

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Four Ways to Unwind in Stowe

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With its endless scenic beauty and timeless charm, Vermont exudes a serene tranquility that captivates the soul. While known for its rich and abundant outdoor recreation offerings, Stowe is also a dream destination for wellness and relaxation travelers alike. Embrace a pace of life that is unhurried and harmonious with nature with these ways to unwind during your stay.

Treat Yourself at the Spa

Vacation is the perfect time to rest and recover from your everyday obligations and there is no better place to rejuvenate then at one of our world-class spas or wellness centers . Choose from a variety of services: soak in a hot tub, use the sauna or unwind with a massage.

Find Your Center

Stowe is a popular destination for spiritual and wellness retreats. Yoga is the perfect vacation activity for those looking to relax while simultaneously connecting with their mind and body. Daily classes are available at the Trapp Family Lodge .

Follow Your Inner Compass

The Stowe Recreation Path is a 5.3-mile paved public path that is open to the public all year round. It starts in the historic Stowe Village, winds its way all through town and ends at a beautiful covered bridge. There are many scenic spots to pull off, sit back and enjoy your surroundings.

Exist Among Nature

Whether paddling on the water or curling up outside with a book , there are plenty of ways to relish in the peace and quiet. Find your solace at the top of a mountain, along the water or amongst the trees. Browse accommodations in Stowe to find your perfect hideaway.

There are plenty more ways to relax and unwind during your stay. Learn more about all of the activities and seasonal offerings in Stowe. Find your perfect fit and start planning your next getaway to the Stowe area now.

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