7 Charming Vermont Towns For The Perfect Getaway

Although it is the only New England state without an ocean coastline, Vermont is covered in a rolling, heart-gripping scenery that more than makes up for the lack of an ocean coastline. Its rolling green hills, where peaceful villages huddle next to each other, give it a touch of beauty that is at once both pristine and pure. Don’t make the mistake of coming in the fall. The scintillating beauty can make your heart skip a beat. Looking for a wonderful vacation destination? The Green Mountain State has some excellent options. Starting with Stowe, discover the seven charming Vermont towns for the perfect getaway.

Stowe

Considering its charm and beauty, it is not difficult to figure out why Stowe receives a constant stream of visitors. With its beautiful setting atop the majestic Mt. Mansfield, Vermont’s highest peak, Stowe presents an appearance that any painter would love to put down on canvas. A creative way to start your adventure is to grab some delicious apple strudel (or rolled raspberry danish) at Von Trapp Kaffeehaus, a long-cherished name also known for its light and crisp lagers.

The von Trapp Family Lodge & Resort, designed as a classic European mountain chalet, knows everything about luxury and comfort. No wonder Snow Country Magazine once named it the "Finest Cross-Country Ski Resort in the United States.” If you enjoy getting out and exploring the landscape, the scenic Stowe Recreation Path should be on your itinerary. Of course, the same holds for Mount Mansfield.

Waterbury

Waterbury is a quaint, picture-perfect town that provides convenient access to world-class ski resorts, especially considering it is just 10 miles from Stowe, the self-proclaimed “Ski Capital of the East." With the Winooski River flowing along the western rim of the town, you will find an environment that is rustic and deeply steeped in nature’s aroma. Waterbury is not New Orleans or Bangkok, but its food scene is among the most eclectic and inviting on the entire Eastern Board. Big names here include Cold Hollow Cider Mill, the go-to venue for fresh-pressed apple cider; the Cabot Creamery Store, whose cheddar has frequently been ranked the best in the world; and Ben & Jerry’s, the only Ben & Jerry's factory open to the public. Stay at the Best Western Plus Waterbury, a pristine 14-acre property that bagged the 2024 M.K. Guertin Award.

Woodstock

Several things about Woodstock make it the quintessential New England small town: the Middle Covered Bridge, a beautiful 1969 replica of a 19th-century wooden bridge, and the Village Green, where community events and farmers markets unfold. You will immediately appreciate why Woodstock is often named among the prettiest small towns in the United States. To top it off, the beautiful Ottauquechee River flows through the town and imbues it with an ambiance that is rustic and relaxing in almost equal measure.

If you want to stay in a central place that is close to almost everything, Woodstock Inn & Resort springs to mind. With accommodation out of the way, you will want to hike up Mount Tom or take a refreshing plunge in nearby Silver Lake State Park. And that is not even half the story.

Montpelier

Montpelier is unique because of an interesting attribute: It is the smallest capital in the nation. However, far from being a downside, visitors get blown away by the glitz of a capital and the intimacy of a small town. Backdropped by beautiful green mountains, a getaway here comes with top-notch outdoor action. Think of hiking, biking, and cross-country skiing, the last of which is best enjoyed at Hubbard Park or the 193-acre North Branch River Park. Looking for where to stay? Check out the Inn at Montpelier, a Main Street property that serves convenience and comfort with a big heart. Otherwise, rent a two-wheeler from Onion River Outdoors so you can easily swing by attractions such as the State House or the Vermont History Museum.

Manchester

A getaway in Manchester makes sense because it is close to three incredible ski mountains, including the highly acclaimed Stratton Mountain Resort, widely regarded as the birthplace of snowboarding. Stratton Mountain is one of the tallest peaks in New England, so you can imagine the austere grandeur of the surrounding landscape.

If your idea of an ideal getaway involves getting lost in the pages of a gripping book, you will find Northshire Bookstore to be quite a gem. And don’t think you will endure a moment of starvation. This iconic bookstore has a cafe that serves delicious treats, including a mouthwatering range of beverages. Still, a stroll along Main Street will see you discovering some inviting restaurants, such as The Crooked Ram, one of the best dining experiences in the area. Stay at the Kimpton Taconic Hotel, a dog-friendly establishment that treats patrons like royalty.

Westmore

Any well-traveled Vermonter will tell you that Lake Willoughby is among the state’s most spellbinding attractions. Backdropped by the towering cliffs of Mount Pisgah and Mount Hor, Lake Willoughby’s dramatic scenery is one for the books. You will also enjoy its crystal-clear waters and an immediate environment that is as tranquil as it is therapeutic. Well, the best way to sample this blue-space wonder is to set base at Westmore, a small, slow-paced town with a rustic ambiance and rural feel. Lake Willoughby North Beach is nice and right next to the road, while Sentinel Rock and Bald Mountain — two outdoor gems in the area — offer fantastic hiking thrills. A unique way to experience the area’s scenery is to spend the night at Will-O-wood Campground, a quiet, lovely space that overlooks Lake Willoughby.

Newport

Rounding off the list of seven charming Vermont towns for a getaway is Newport, a cute little town close to the Canadian border. It may strike one as remote and hard to get to, but Newport is easily accessible via Interstate 91, the longest Interstate in New England that is wholly within the region. On a well-planned getaway, a first-time visitor will enjoy stunning views of Lake Memphremagog and soothing panoramas that stretch well into Canada. Keep in mind that the air here is fresh and playful, making it perfect for those who want to kick off and wind down. The East Side Restaurant & Pub, with its large outdoor deck, is a nice place to enjoy fresh seafood. Bonus point? The lake views are divine. You can also float down the Black River or enjoy the breeze at Prouty Beach, a peaceful space with paved walking paths and nautical charm. The other good thing about Prouty Beach is that it has a clean campground for spending the night.

The Takeaway

Nature and nostalgia come together in Vermont to curate an experience that will linger in the memory for several years. It may lack Florida’s beaches or California’s palm trees. Still, the Green Mountain State has a landscape that can be mistaken for a Norman Rockwell painting: a delicious blend of sentimentality and simplicity, but with a rolling, jaw-dropping scenery. You will discover small, charming towns with beautiful waterfronts, amazing access to fantastic trails, and neat main streets steeped in history.