These 6 Towns in Vermont Have Bustling Main Streets

Vermont, part of the New England region, is a beautiful, historically significant, and ultimately attractive destination. Known as the Green Mountain State, Vermont is home to magnificent towns, including well-known towns like Montpelier and Burlington, that provide excellent opportunities to see the state's natural beauty, small villages, and a glimpse of the past. In these towns, dine at well-regarded restaurants, take in the local architecture, dive into the art and culture scene, and explore neighborhood stores. Whether strolling the lively main streets or unwinding on quaint village greens, Vermont's most picturesque downtown districts demonstrate why so many people love to visit the Green Mountain State.

Montpelier

Montpelier, the country's smallest capital city, boasts one of the best downtown districts in the state. You will find many shops, ranging from the award-winning Artisans Hand Craft Gallery to Bear Pond Books, which has been selling new and used books in Montpelier since 1973. On the first Friday of select months, the Montpelier Art Walk features talented local artists showcasing their work. The area is also home to great eateries and bars. Dine at Mad Taco for Mexican and Latin cuisine, order Italian dishes at Sarducci's Restaurant, or swing by Three Penny Taproom for the best craft beers in Vermont. The historic Vermont State House is on the west edge of the downtown area and is open for self-guided and guided tours. Explore the many hiking, biking, and skiing trails near downtown Montpelier.

Stowe

Stowe is a charming town with a walkable downtown area surrounding Mount Mansfield, Vermont's tallest mountain. Visit boutique shops, local eateries, and art galleries housed within well-preserved buildings from the 19th century. Stowe, known as the "Ski Capital of the East," has many attractions and popular destinations that reflect its nickname. Stay at the world-class Stowe Mountain Resort or Trapp Family Lodge, a welcoming European-style lodge with breathtaking mountain views. Take a scenic stroll along the Stowe Recreation Path or visit the Vermont Ski and Snowboard Museum. Local events like the Stowe Winter Carnival, Stowe Farmer's Market, and Stowe Jazz Festival add to the town's lively atmosphere.

Burlington

Situated along Lake Champlain, Burlington offers many local experiences and a vibrant downtown area. Travel from downtown Burlington to Vergennes on a three-hour scenic train ride with a gourmet dinner included. The Church Street Marketplace is also a great way to explore the area. Locals and tourists visit the pedestrian-only marketplace to shop for clothing, jewelry, antiques, art, books, and unique gifts and seek food and drink options like Top of the Block Sandwich Shoppe and Church Street Tavern. A beautifully lit Christmas tree adorns the area during the holidays, making it a great place to get into the holiday spirit.

Woodstock

Woodstock, a beautiful town known for its New England charm, has many historic buildings along its main streets, including the Dana House, F.H. Gillingham & Sons general store, and First Congregational Church, all built in the early 19th century. The downtown area is also home to The Green, the site of Woodstock's weekly farmers market event. You will also find some of the most intriguing homes in the town there. At the Village of Woodstock, shop at boutique shops, dine at restaurants, or find lodging, including the charming Woodstock Inn & Resort. Within the area, enjoy outdoor recreation and abundant adventure in the surrounding Green Mountains. Visiting during winter is ideal, with Christmas caroling, carriage rides, and holiday parades in the heart of downtown Woodstock.

Bristol

In central Vermont, Bristol is a picturesque mountain town surrounded by the scenic Green Mountain National Forest. In the heart of Bristol's walkable downtown area is the Vermont Marketplace, a one-stop shop for locally-made products like coffee, tea, maple syrup, jam, and chocolate, as well as clothing, jewelry, books, art, toys, and home accessories. After exploring the general store, stroll through Art on Main, an art gallery displaying work from local artists and special exhibits. Local spots for dining include the Bobcat Cafe and Brewery and Minifactory. Bristol's Main Street provides easy access to the New Haven River, where you can fish, kayak, and swim at Eagle Park.

Manchester

Manchester, the North Shire town of Bennington County, lies between the Taconic and Green Mountain ranges. In its vibrant downtown area, along Main Street, you will have many great places to stay, such as The Equinox, offering luxury rooms with a New England charm and incredible dining options like Marsh Tavern and Chop House, a golf course, and a full-service spa. Manchester's downtown area provides shopping opportunities, from the Manchester Designer Outlets to small businesses selling clothing, accessories, jewelry, antiques, books, art, and fine wine. The downtown area is also home to Pastime Pinball, a popular place for pinball and other games. Just a few minutes from downtown is Hildene, the Lincoln Family Home, where visitors can tour the famous 412-acre Lincoln estate. Drive to Emerald Lake State Park from downtown to explore its campground, beach, and swimming area.

Experience Vermont’s Most Charming Main Streets

Vermont and its charming towns offer bustling main streets with fascinating historic sites, incredible dining destinations, distinctive art scenes, and breathtaking views backed by world-class recreation for anyone traveling through the northeastern United States. Whether you’re drawn to the vibrant arts in Montpelier, the scenic beauty of Stowe, or the historic charm of Woodstock, these towns provide a perfect blend of culture, history, and natural splendor. Exploring Vermont's picturesque downtowns is an experience that beautifully captures the essence of New England's small-town appeal.