7 Picturesque Towns in Vermont for a Weekend Retreat in 2024
Vermont, complete with tree-covered hills and snow-capped mountains, is undoubtedly beautiful. But there is more to The Green Mountain State than just sheer beauty. In addition to scenic landscapes, Vermont is also known for quality skiing, impressive maple syrup production, and idyllic small towns that make perfect weekend getaways. Travelers looking to take a peaceful but fun-filled trip to the mountains will find all they’re looking for and more in these seven picturesque towns in Vermont.
Montpelier
With a population hovering around 8,000 people, Montpelier, Vermont, is the smallest capital city in the U.S. But whatever they may lack in size, the town makes up for in small-town charm. Travelers enjoying a weekend in Montpelier will notice the absence of stores such as Walmart, Mcdonald's, and Starbucks. Instead, the town strongly focuses on local businesses, stating on its tourism website that “local is a way of life.” Those looking to spend a few days in Montpelier will want to book accommodations at The Inn. The small boutique hotel is riddled with New England charm and has been in business since 1988. Once settled in, visitors want to check out outdoor attractions such as the North Branch Nature Center and Hubbard Park. Here, people of all ages can enjoy hiking, admiring historic towers, and learning about the local flora and fauna. In the winter, Montpelier makes an ideal home base for travelers looking to hit the slopes at the nearby Mad River Glen ski resort. Other notable attractions in town include the Lost Nation Theatre, the Vermont State House, and the Vermont Historical Society Museum. Before leaving Montpelier, don’t forget to stop by Morse Farm Maple Sugarworks for some of that classic Vermont syrup.
Burlington
Tucked along the shores of Lake Champlain lies the charming, family-friendly town of Burlington, Vermont. The town offers many lake-based activities, beautiful local parks, and unique tourist attractions. For comfortable accommodations and beautiful lake views, consider checking in at the Hilton-branded Hotel Champlain. After checking in, travelers who want to spend time by the water can explore the ECHO Leahy Center for Lake Champlain. Here, kids and adults alike can enjoy various science-based activities ranging from watching 3D films to interacting with the lake’s ecosystem. Those looking for a more laid-back day by the water can swim, kayak, and picnic at North Beach or Oakledge Park. Next, head to the southwest edge of town to admire the World’s Largest Filing Cabinet, a fantastic work of art meant to symbolize bureaucratic delays related to the construction of Burlington Road. Finally, those looking for dinner and a show can hop aboard the Champlain Valley Dinner Train for a relaxing 3-hour round trip through the beautiful Vermont countryside.
Stowe
Stowe, Vermont, located at the base of Mount Mansfield, is a year-round hot spot for outdoor enthusiasts. Spa visits, gondola rides, skiing, and dining are just a few activities visitors can indulge in at the beloved Stowe Mountain Resort. Hiking is also a popular activity in town, and hiking enthusiasts will have a good selection of trails. Try the Route 108 to Bingham Falls trail for a short hike with a scenic payoff. The quarter-mile path is easy to access and leads to a sparkling 40-foot waterfall. The Stowe Recreation Path is another great option for an easy hike and leads visitors past several in-town attractions. For more intense hikes along with activities like bouldering, ice climbing, and cave exploration, head to Smugglers Notch State Park. The Park also offers campsites for those looking to spend a few nights in town. Finally, before going home, don’t forget to stop by the Vermont Ski and Snowboard Museum to learn more about the area and pick up a souvenir or two.
Woodstock
Roughly 75 miles from Stowe, travelers will stumble upon the quaint, historic town of Woodstock, Vermont. Visitors can spend a day here exploring charming covered bridges, wandering through 400-year-old hemlocks, and admiring rambling stone walls at the Marsh-Billings-Rockefeller National Historical Park. Not far from the park is the Billings Farm & Museum, an outdoor museum that combines education with fun for the whole family. Those arriving in the fall will also want to see the Sugarbush Farm. Visitors will find hiking trails, farm animals, photo opportunities, free cheese samples, and a small shop filled with Vermont maple syrup. Animal lovers who didn’t get their fill at Sugarbush Farm can go to the Falconry at Woodstock to learn more about the popular bird of prey. Travelers looking for Woodstock accommodations will find plenty of New England charm at places like The Woodstocker B&B or The Shire Woodstock.
Chester
Chester, Vermont, is home to many antique shops, art galleries, and delicious places to eat, making it the ideal destination for a day trip with friends. As noted on the town’s website, Chester is also close to several popular skiing areas, including Okemo, Stratton, and Killington. Visitors hoping to find unique treasures while in town will want to check out places like the Stonehouse Antique Center and Bargain Corner. Local art galleries like Fischer Arts and Crow Hill Gallery are also great places to find something special. Those hoping to satisfy their sweet tooth can do so at The Southern Pie Company where freshly baked pies and tasty options for breakfast or lunch are always on offer. To stay close to Chester’s best amenities, consider booking accommodations at the beautiful Inn Victoria: Bed and Breakfast. The Inn, depending on the time of year offers a range of unique stays that involve everything from murder mystery parties to quilting and crafting retreats.
Grafton
Rolling hills dotted with trees, romantic covered bridges, and historic buildings are just a few of the things that make Grafton, Vermont a great place to visit. Boasted on visitgraftonvt.com as one of New England’s prettiest villages, visitors can’t help but feel a sense of peace when exploring the town. Outdoor lovers will want to wander the Grafton Trails & Outdoor Center. Visitors will find hiking trails and places to swim here in the summer. In the winter, activities like skiing, snowshoeing, fat biking, and sleigh rides are all available. For easy access to the outdoor center, book a stay at the Grafton Inn. Guests at the Inn will receive access to trail passes and equipment rentals. The Nature Museum is another great local spot for outdoor enthusiasts and features wildlife exhibits, fairy houses, gardens, and other educational activities. Plummer’s Sugar House and the Grafton Historical Society are also worth exploring in town.
Waterbury
Waterbury, Vermont, is a cute, walkable village perfect for anyone exploring the outdoors and enjoying some delicious food along the way. Start a visit to Waterbury off on a sweet note with a visit to Ben & Jerry’s Waterbury Factory Ice Cream Shop. Here, visitors can enjoy fresh ice cream from the factory line, wander through the famous “flavor graveyard,” pose for countless photo opportunities, and learn about the popular ice cream chain that was founded in Vermont. For outdoor activities such as swimming, hiking, and camping, head to either Littler River State Park or Waterbury Center State Park.
From downhill skiing to eating Ben & Jerry’s ice cream fresh off the production line, Vermont truly does have something for everyone. These seven small towns are each filled with outdoor recreation opportunities, unique shops, and chances to interact with wildlife. Of course, with the surrounding mountains and bountiful foliage, it’s enough to walk through these towns and enjoy the natural beauty, simply.
