8 Underappreciated Towns to Visit in Vermont

Vermont is a gorgeous green state in the northern USA known for its beautiful lush landscape and green rolling hills, hiking trails, covered bridges, and New England charm. It is bordered by the state of Massachusetts to the south, New Hampshire to the east, New York state on its western side, and Quebec, Canada, to the North. Among the gorgeous natural beauty are under-appreciated towns that are often overlooked. These small towns are full of American charm and character, from Stowe to Shelburne. Whether seeking outdoor adventure or a quiet escape, each of these towns offers something unique for those visiting Vermont for a day trip, road trip, or weekend escape.

Stowe

Although small, Stowe is a popular town for those who love winter sports. It sits at Vermont’s highest peak of the Green Mountain Range, making it a perfect option for ski and snowboard enthusiasts. Stay at the Stowe Mountain Resort for convenient access to the slopes, or explore the many cross-country ski trails in Stowe Nordic. Though winter is the most popular time of year for travelers, the town has a variety of attractions to enjoy year-round. Another winter activity is dog sledding at Eden Ethical Dog Sledding, which offers the chance to trek through the frozen wilderness pulled by a pack of friendly pups. In the fall, the forests and foliage turn to fish rusts and oranges, enhancing the views from hiking trails, horseback riding trails, and mountain biking paths along the Green Mountain Range. In spring and summer, check out scenic waterfalls like Moss Glen Falls or Bingham Falls. There are also even more unique experiences to enjoy, like ziplining and treetop exploration at ArborTrek Canopy Adventures, which is particularly popular with families. For a breathtaking adventure, consider a hot air balloon ride, where you can float above the rolling hills and experience the beauty of Vermont as far as the eye can see.

Weston

Like Stowe, Weston is also located near the Green Mountains and sits within the Green Mountain National Forest. This charming small town is an under-appreciated village that makes for a great getaway. The landscape and vistas bring a sense of peace and tranquility for many visitors, and it is the sheer beauty of the area that is Weston’s strongest appeal. Many visitors will choose to camp among the trees, but Weston is also a great stopping point for those making day trips into the park to enjoy mountain biking, fishing, or hiking. Downtown Weston has a strong sense of old-world America. Step back in time and shop at the Weston Village general store, or visit the old mill with its waterfall views. For cultural and live shows, visit the Weston Playhouse and enjoy open-air entertainment in the Village. Visitors can even step further back in time at the Weston Priory, which is still home to Benedictine monks.

Waitsfield

Waitsfield is a tiny Vermont town of less than 250 people, meaning it is oftentimes overlooked by travelers. But this hidden gem has a lot to offer visitors. It is located in the Mad River Valley, a beautiful, lush landscape of green meadows and valleys. Like Stowe, Waitsfield is best known for its ski resorts, the Sugarbush Resort and Mad River Glen. The River offers a variety of opportunities for water sports like boating and fishing. Aside from the draw to the great outdoors, Waitsfield has a vibrant arts and cultural scene. The Vermont Festival of the Arts takes place in August every year and showcases the creative talents of locals. Stay in one of the many lodges or inns that populate the valley, or if visiting in the warmer seasons, camping is a great way to take in all the region has to offer.

Manchester

Manchester is a beautiful small town with a rich history. One of its most exciting attractions is the Lincoln Family Home, which was home to Robert Todd Lincoln, President Abraham Lincoln’s oldest son. This stately building is a must-see in town. Other exciting attractions in the town include the unique Pastime Pinball Museum Arcade, the American Museum of Fly Fishing, and the Museum of Creative Processes. Those with children will love Bromley Mountain, an all-ages theme park complete with rides, bumper boats, and a concrete luge that is a favorite among visitors. Stay in accommodation with a view at the aptly named Manchester View, and experience classic American colonial architecture at the Barrows House Inn and Restaurant or the Equinox Golf Resort and Spa. In town, art galleries, shops, and boutiques show the region's artistic side. Come in the summer to experience the warmth and welcome of the Manchester Summer Festival, which celebrates the local culture.

Grafton

Grafton is part of southern Vermont and is considered one of the state’s prettiest towns. The streets are filled with historic buildings and picturesque architecture. The locals take pride in preserving the look and feel of the town, so in many ways it has not changed much in looks since its founding. Residents of the area still value the importance of community and connectedness, so Grafton also has a strong identity and a warm, welcoming feel. Visit The Nature Museum at Grafton, Grafton Historical Society, and Plummer’s Sugar House, which makes Vermont’s staple food maple syrup, or try another favorite at the Grafton Village Cheese Company. Nature lovers can stroll the Grafton Community Garden or explore some 2,000 acres of wild lands at The Grafton Trails & Outdoor Center.

Woodstock

This lovely small town is on the Ottauquechee River, positioned right at the Crossroad of the Vermont Scenic Byway. It is a rural town with a peaceful beauty about it. Surrounding farmlands mix with the natural landscape for a gorgeous tapestry of fields and forests. In town, craftspeople and artists are celebrated, and boutiques and galleries dot the main streets. Woodstock is a great option for those looking to explore the Marsh-Billings-Rockefeller National Historical Park, bike, horseback ride, or walk the many trails that offer scenic views of the region. Only about 15 minutes outside of town is the Quechee State Park, another great option for outdoor adventure lovers. Top accommodations include the Woodstock Inn and Resort, Jackson House Inn, the Village Inn of Woodstock, and the Woodstock B&B.

Chester

Chester is another town in New England with a quaint vibe. Like Stowe, it also has close proximity to skiing opportunities, including Okemo Mountain Resort, Stratton Mountain Resort, and Killington ski areas, which offer some of the best skiing opportunities in the country. Enjoy excellent comfort food at Country Girl Diner or a more upscale meal at Fullerton Inn or Inn Victoria, which double as excellent places to stay. History buffs will love the Stone Village Historic District and the main street of town, which boasts various buildings on the National Register of Historic Places. Chester also has a vibrant antique scene, including the Stone House Antique Center. For outdoor lovers, you can enjoy the proximity of hiking trails, mountain biking opportunities, and beautiful outdoor spaces. Magic Mountain, Mount Snow, Okemo Mountain Resort, Killington, Stratton, and Bromley are all close by and are a great way to explore the town’s surrounding areas.

Shelburne

Shelburne is in western Vermont, near Lake Champlain. It is a perfect day trip or weekend vacation option since it is only 7 miles from the larger city of Burlington and less than an hour’s drive from Montpelier. Enjoy scenic lakeside views or explore the gorgeous Lake Champlain for waterspouts and adventure. You can even venture to the lake’s main island and stop in at the village of South Hero. Shelburne is in a particularly fertile part of Vermont, and its history is rooted in farming. One of the main tourist attractions in the area is the Shelburne Farms which is both a working farm and a place for visitors to come and learn about the ins and outs of commercial farming. Another place to take in some of the region’s history is at the Shelburne Museum, and the Vermont Teddy Bear Factory is a must on the unique things-to-do list. The area comes alive in the summer, and visitors can enjoy various summer festivals, farmers markets, open-air concerts, and one-off events.

Discover the Charm of Vermont’s Small Towns

The lush beauty of Vermont makes it a popular place for vacationers from many of the nearby states, from New York and Maine to Washington D.C. and Connecticut. But instead of hitting the major cities, these often overlooked smaller towns offer an alternative experience full of charm, history, culture, and peaceful natural beauty. Each town and village has something different to offer, from the ski slopes of Stowe to the state parks of Woodstock. There is so much to do and see in these small towns of Vermont.