Top 9 Vermont Towns To Visit In 2025
Vermont is the only state in New England that does not have a coastline on the Atlantic Ocean. Although it does not share the oceanic scenery that its neighbors have become famous for, it makes up for it with its vast mountainous and forest-covered interior landscapes.
Vermont is also not known for its big cities, with Burlington being its biggest in terms of population, hosting a population of just around 45,000 permanent residents. Again, Vermont makes up for this shortfall with its charming small towns, many of which make this list of must-visit destinations in 2025.
From cozy accommodations to outdoor adventure in some of the country's best parks, let's take a deeper look at these nine wonderful Vermont communities.
Woodstock
Woodstock, often regarded as one of Vermont’s quintessential small towns, is a destination that is both full of history and natural beauty. Its downtown area features a number of landmarks dating back to the 1800s, anchored by the iconic Middle Covered Bridge. If you happen to be a fan of covered bridges, the Taftsville Covered Bridge is well worth a short drive just east of town as well.
Here, you can also explore the Billings Farm & Museum, which showcases Vermont’s rich agricultural heritage, or take a short walk to the Marsh-Billings-Rockefeller National Historical Park, the only national park in the state.
With the area's amazing scenery, be sure to hike nearby Mount Tom or visit the Quechee Gorge, known as “Vermont’s Little Grand Canyon.”
Stowe
Dominated by the backdrop of Mount Mansfield, Vermont’s highest peak, Stowe serves as a choice hub for outdoor recreation in 2025. In winter, Stowe Mountain Resort, one of the most popular ski resorts in the country, attracts skiers and snowboarders, while warmer months bring opportunities for hiking, biking, and exploring the Stowe Recreation Path, an idyllic 5.3-mile trail connecting scenic landscapes with local amenities.
The Vermont Ski and Snowboard Museum provides insight into the area’s rich alpine history, while the Trapp Family Lodge, founded by the von Trapp family of The Sound of Music fame, offers Austrian-inspired hospitality.
If you want to learn a little more about this community's storied past, Stowe’s historic village features white-steepled churches, independently owned boutiques, and art galleries, offering a snapshot of classic New England life. Here, comfortable accommodations like the Stowe Village Inn and the Green Mountain Inn can be found too.
Manchester
Nestled in the Green Mountains on the far western border of the state, Manchester is a surprisingly busy small town with a huge abundance of scenic beauty and outdoor activities.
It is considered to be a gateway to outdoor adventures for residents and visitors alike, with access to the nearby Lye Brook Falls Trail and Bromley Mountain for hiking and skiing. Fly-fishing enthusiasts flock to the Battenkill River, renowned for its trout population, while book lovers frequent the iconic Northshire Bookstore, an independent literary haven in the heart of town.
The town itself is well-known to locals for its designer outlets, but its appeal extends far beyond shopping. History buffs can visit Hildene, the stately home of Robert Todd Lincoln, son of President Abraham Lincoln, set amidst stunning gardens and vistas overlooking the town's rural setting.
Middlebury
Middlebury is a college town with a blend of historic charm and cultural vitality. Home to Middlebury College, the town boasts a lively arts scene, including performances at the Mahaney Arts Center and exhibits at the college's Museum of Art. Moreover, downtown Middlebury features a mix of locally owned shops, cafes, and restaurants, many of which overlook the picturesque Otter Creek and its prominent waterfall.
History is central to Middlebury’s appeal to visitors in 2025. The Henry Sheldon Museum of Vermont History offers insights into the region’s past, while the nearby UVM Morgan Horse Farm showcases the state’s equestrian heritage.
On the other hand, for nature enthusiasts, the Trail Around Middlebury (TAM) provides nearly 19 miles of scenic hiking paths through forests and farmlands. This town is also centered around Middlebury Falls, a very easily accessible natural landmark that is popular among landscape photographers.
Bennington
Bennington stands out as the home to the Bennington Battle Monument, a 306-foot obelisk commemorating a pivotal Revolutionary War victory. This eye-catching monument is one of the most iconic landmarks in the state, but other locales, like the Old First Church, are also worth a visit for architecture enthusiasts. It should also be noted that the Old First Chruch is Vermont’s oldest Protestant church, with poet Robert Frost buried in its cemetery.
Art lovers can explore the Bennington Museum, which houses a vast collection of regional art, including works by Grandma Moses, or visit the Vermont Arts Exchange for contemporary exhibits. The town’s downtown area features an array of locally owned shops and galleries, like Fiddlehead at Four Corners, creating a creative atmosphere for all.
Be sure to enjoy the scenic hiking trails of the Green Mountain National Forest while here, or take a drive along Route 9, known as the Molly Stark Byway, for more breathtaking views of Vermont's remote wildlands. This route is particularly beautiful in the fall when the dense forests begin to change color.
Brattleboro
Brattleboro sits in southern Vermont along the New Hampshire border and is seen as a cultural and economic hub for the area, along with, like many towns in this list, containing much in the way of natural beauty.
The town’s downtown core features a nice selection of shops, independent bookstores, and an array of farm-to-table dining options, like the aptly named The Farm Table, a highly rated local favorite. While in town, learn more about the region's creative side at the Brattleboro Museum & Art Center, which highlights contemporary art and regional history.
Brattleboro is also home to the historic Estey Organ Museum, showcasing the craftsmanship of the renowned organ company that called the town home for over a century.
Set along the Connecticut River, Brattleboro also offers numerous outdoor activities, such as kayaking, fishing, and hiking at nearby spots like Wantastiquet Mountain. For a panoramic view of the area, you can climb the trails to the summit.
Montpelier
As the nation’s smallest state capital, Montpelier is a must-visit in 2025 for anyone looking to explore Vermont's unique history. The Vermont State House, a striking gold-domed structure, is the centerpiece of the town and offers guided tours highlighting its architectural and political past.
Cultural attractions abound here, with the Lost Nation Theater hosting performances and the T.W. Wood Gallery showcasing Vermont's best artists. Just down the street is the Vermont Historical Society Museum another great spot to learn about Vermont's capital city.
Nature in and around Montpelier is equally accessible, with Hubbard Park offering trails and an observation tower providing panoramic views of the town and surrounding hills. Camel's Hump State Park is also located about a 30-minute drive west of town and contains trails that will take you to the famous "camel's hump," a bald peak that is a fantastic lookout point.
Barre
Known as the “Granite Center of the World,” Barre has a unique industrial heritage alongside a thriving arts and cultural scene. The town is home to the Rock of Ages Quarry, one of the largest granite quarries in the world, where you can take a guided tour. The nearby Vermont Granite Museum further delves into the history of this industry and its influence on the region.
Barre’s downtown area is highlighted by public art, including granite sculptures and murals. Furthermore, the historic Barre Opera House hosts a variety of performances, from local theater to national acts, a perfect place to see an evening show during your stay in town.
Get outside and explore the nearby Millstone Trails, which contains hiking and biking paths through reclaimed quarry landscapes. Groton State Forest also rests nearby, a vast forestland that is among the best destinations to visit in the fall, as the dense foliage changes color and the cooler temperatures make for favorable hiking conditions.
Randolph
Randolph has an artistically inclined downtown core that is centered around the Chandler Center for the Arts, which hosts concerts, theater productions, and visual art exhibits year-round. Quaint arts spaces, like the People’s Gallery, further add to this small town's creative vibe.
Randolph’s historical significance is evident in landmarks like the Kimball Public Library, a striking example of early 20th-century architecture, and the town’s well-preserved railroad depot, which serves as a reminder of its past as a vital transportation hub.
Make sure to also check out nearby trails in the Braintree Mountain Forest, offering a mix of easy walks and challenging hikes with rewarding views. A short drive north will bring you to Roxbury State Forest, a great spot to hike the area's remote woodlands.
Make the Green Mountain State Your Vacation Destination in 2025
These Vermont towns offer an amazing selection of travel destinations for 2025. From the artistic energy of Brattleboro to the historic charm of Woodstock and the outdoor adventures surrounding Stowe, each town here exemplifies why the Green Mountain State is so special. Whether exploring museums, hiking scenic trails, or simply strolling through a lively downtown, you will surely find countless opportunities to connect with the best Vermont has to offer.
