The Perfect Visit to Stowe, Vermont in the Fall
Fall in New England is nothing short of magical. Picture hiking in crisp mountain air, vibrant foliage, and warm apple cider in your hand. All this and so much more can be found in Stowe, Vermont, in the fall, where this quaint New England town transforms into an autumnal paradise.
Stowe may be best known as a winter wonderland, but it is also your perfect escape from the everyday hustle to a place where simplicity meets adventure.
With this itinerary filled with things to do in Stowe Vermont in the fall, you’ll find plenty of reasons to enjoy a trip to this idyllic town.
So, pack your cozy sweaters and get ready for back roads lined with maple trees, leaf-peeping, and an overall wholesome autumn experience.
Getting to Stowe
Burlington International Airport is the closest airport to Stowe. From there, it’s just under an hour’s drive.
If you’re coming from Boston to Stowe, a lovely road trip awaits.
The drive from Boston is definitely part of the adventure and a reasonably short drive, with just 200 miles between the two towns.
As a bonus, if you visit Stowe in the fall, you will witness the vibrant colors of the Vermont fall foliage as you drive through the beautiful landscape and scenic countryside.
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The Best Time to Visit Stowe Vermont in the Fall
Visiting Stowe in September or October means cooler weather and the opportunity to see the peak foliage as you participate in the many outdoor experiences available in this quaint town.
Did you know that Vermont, or as the French call it, “Vert Mont,” translates to “Green Mountain?”
This lovely state, famous for its picturesque covered bridges, breathtaking landscapes, and delicious maple syrup, is quite impressive.
And wait until you experience fall here. The typically green mountains come alive in a riot of red and orange hues. Truly, autumn in Vermont is an unforgettable sight!
Best Places to Stay in Stowe Vermont in the Fall
There are many different types of lodging in Stowe. From the ski resorts to the quaint inns and everything in between, you can find a place that fits your tastes and needs.
Here are some suggestions for every price range:
Stoweflake Mountain Resort
The Stoweflake Mountain Resort & Spa is a charming, family-friendly resort like most similar hotels in the Northeast.
It’s excellent for families and pet owners looking for comfort among family. It’s perfect for large events or even just to stay in and relax by your fireplace.
Green Mountain Inn
In short, the Green Mountain Inn is a place where history and modern comfort combine.
The Green Mountain Inn is a historic Inn in an ideal location on Main Street with 104 rooms in 8 different buildings, an onsite restaurant called Whip Bar & Grill with locally sourced products, and a cozy and charming atmosphere.
They operate year-round with a heated outdoor pool and ample parking for guest convenience.
Trapp Family Lodge
The Trapp Family Lodge is a family-friendly Austrian-inspired resort located in Stowe, Vermont. It offers 96 rooms and suites, as well as luxurious villas and guest house chalets.
The 2,600-acre property boasts stunning mountain views of the surrounding area with multiple hiking trails.
You can enjoy guided tours of the property, which include the history of the von Trapp family, who lived in Austria before coming to America and establishing their musical legacy.
Other activities include tennis, yoga classes, rock climbing walls, horse-drawn carriage rides, and more.
Where to Eat in Stowe Vermont in the Fall
Breakfast in Stowe, Vermont
Grab your morning coffee at Black Cap Coffee
Start your day by picking up your morning coffee and a pastry at Black Cap Coffee & Bakery of Vermont.
In addition to coffee, Black Cap also sells craft beer and wine.
The Butler’s Pantry
Begin your day with the most magnificent breakfast in Stowe at The Butler’s Pantry.
The restaurant is located in a historic building across from the white church along Main St. and is only open for breakfast.
The breakfast is delicious, and the pure maple syrup is amazing! You are in Vermont, so I guess it should be!
The Butler’s Pantry – 128 Main Street, Stowe, VT
Lunch and Dinner in Stowe
Idletyme Brewing Company
Don’t let the name fool you. The Idletyme Brewing Company is so much more than a brewing company. It is a restaurant, brewery, and beer garden serving fabulous food and drinks.
Try a flight of craft beer and fried pickle spears when you visit.
Idletyme Brewing Company – 1859 Mountain Road, Stowe, VT
Pizza at Piecasso
Piecasso is such a cute place. Check out their daily slice special for an affordable lunch when you visit. You also won’t want to miss the garlic knots and desserts.
Make sure to ask about the gluten-free options.
During fall, the restaurant closes on certain weekdays, so check with the restaurant before you go.
Piecasso – 1899 Mountain Road, Stowe, VT 05672
Wine, Cheese, and Chocolate
Dedalus
Dedalus is a fantastic wine and cheese shop, bakery, and market. The shop is bright and welcoming. The staff is friendly and knowledgeable. They educated us about the region and recommended some local wines. Check out their seasonal menu and cheese boards.
Dedalus – 1031 Mountain Road, Stowe, VT
Cork Restaurant & Natural Wine Shop
Cork is another restaurant that made it on our list of places to try. Its location is right off Main Street.
This sister-owned wine shop is one of Vermont’s only natural wine shops. The fall menu is not extensive, but it is delicious. Ask about a “dirty potato.”
Cork Restaurant & Natural Wine Shop -35 School Street, Stowe, Vermont
Laughing Moon Chocolates
The Laughing Moon Chocolate shop is located on Main Street. This boutique chocolate shop has a colorful “Welcome to Stowe” mural painted on the side of their building.
Before you head inside, make sure to stop and take a picture.
The chocolates are handmade on-site and are mouthwatering.
Laughing Moon – 78 S Main Street, Stowe, Vermont
Trip Tip: Taste the dark chocolate sea salt caramels. They were so good! The cute Stowe, VT labeled sweets also make good souvenir treats.
Best Things to Do in Stowe Vermont in the Fall
It is easy to love Stowe, Vermont, in the fall as it gushes with charm.
Stroll along the streets with flower-filled pots hanging from the lampposts under American flags flying just above.
Step into the small general stores like Stowe Mercantile, shop at the adorable boutiques, and visit Stowe Community Church, the beautiful white church in the middle of town. The scene could be an instant postcard.
Besides shopping and eating, there are so many things to do in Stowe, Vermont, in the fall.
Go on a Walk on the Stowe Recreation Path
Stowe has an award-winning recreational path from the town center just behind the church to Top Notch Resort.
It is a paved path over five miles long that weaves through the town connecting businesses, restaurants, swimming holes, and accommodations. There are numerous access points along the way.
Take advantage of the gorgeous weather, few bugs, and limited crowds in the fall to enjoy this path and numerous other trails ranging from easy to more challenging levels.
Click here for a complete list of the trails in and near Stowe.
Hike to a Waterfall
Nestled in the heart of Stowe, Vermont, you’ll find the lovely Moss Glen Falls, the tallest waterfall in Vermont.
It’s just a short distance from Stowe’s Historic Village, making it a perfect choice for a relaxed fall outing.
As you walk through a beautiful forest with trees showing off their vibrant autumn colors, the soothing sound of rushing water grows louder, signaling your arrival at the falls.
Moss Glen Falls is a peaceful spot with cascading water and lush greenery, offering a serene escape in the midst of Vermont’s fall beauty.
It’s an ideal destination for a quick and refreshing adventure.
Trapp Family Lodge – 700 Trapp Hill Road, Stowe, Vermont
While in Stowe during the fall season, stop at the Trapp Family Lodge. If the name sounds familiar, it’s because it is the property of the von Trapp family from the Sound of Music.
This place is enormous, and the grounds are beautifully kept.
The rooms are a bit pricey, but they offer several accommodations, including hotel rooms, villas, and chalets.
Mountain biking, hiking, golf, and tennis are available outdoor activities.
There is also a brewery, a wine cellar, and a coffee house.
Take a Scenic Drive to Stowe Mountain Resort
The Stowe Mountain Resort is nine miles outside of town. During the summer and fall, visitors have many available activities in the area.
The historic Auto Toll Road is a 4.5-mile drive that takes you up Mount Mansfield, Vermont’s highest mountain at 4,395 feet above sea level. Be prepared for amazing views.
In addition to a magnificent drive, hiking and walking trails surround the area.
During the peak foliage season, the hikes are quite beautiful.
If hiking is not your thing, you can still enjoy the mountains.
Take a scenic ride up the mountain on the Gondola SkyRide.
Tickets are $35 for adults.
While you are in the area, visit the Vermont State Park called Smugglers’ Notch State Park. It is open to visitors through the middle of October.
You will find more scenic hikes, campgrounds, and a wetlands boardwalk here.
Visit a Haunted Covered Bridge
When visiting Stowe, Vermont in the fall, don’t miss Gold Brook Covered Bridge, a local treasure affectionately known as Emily’s Covered Bridge.
This charming bridge has an eerie secret. It’s said to be haunted by a jilted young woman. As you venture onto the bridge, make sure to read the signs recounting the chilling, captivating story behind its haunting.
This ghostly tale adds another layer of intrigue to your visit. Who knows, you might even feel an ethereal presence alongside you. It’s all part of the unique Stowe experience!
Tour the Ben & Jerry Ice Cream Factory
The Ben and Jerry’s Ice Cream Factory is in Waterbury, a short distance from Stowe.
The factory offers tours, serves ice cream, and sells souvenirs. The line for ice cream is popular, so prepare for a wait when you visit.
Souvenirs sold include t-shirts, stickers, Ben & Jerry’s ice cream scoops, and Christmas ornaments.
Trip Tip: Don’t miss the Flavor Graveyard. It is located at the top of the second parking lot up the hill. It is a whimsical graveyard with colorful, cute, and sassy headstones with epitaphs written for each of the flavors that have been retired. If you are a Saturday Night Live fan, you will get the “Schweddy Balls.”
Visit an Apple Cider Mill
An adorable cider mill called the Cold Hollow Cider Mill is located just as you leave Stowe.
Unfortunately, there are no apple trees on site, so you can’t go apple picking, but inside, you can watch the cider process, taste the cider, and visit the vast gift shop.
I have three words for you, though – Apple Cider Donuts!
Have you ever tasted these gems? Being from the south, I had never heard of apple cider donuts before visiting Vermont.
Trust me when I tell you that you will want a dozen of these.
Cold Hollow Cider Mill – 3600 Waterbury-Stowe Road, Waterbury Center, VT 05677
In conclusion, a visit to Stowe, Vermont, in the fall is an experience that promises memories to cherish forever.
This charming New England town comes alive with breathtaking autumn colors, picturesque landscapes, and cozy, welcoming vibes.
Whether exploring Stowe’s Historic Village, taking scenic hikes to discover hidden waterfalls like Moss Glen Falls, or simply savoring the warmth of local hospitality, this destination offers something special for everyone.
So, if you haven’t already, now is the perfect time to start planning your trip to Stowe this fall. You will love this quintessential Vermont town. It’s an adventure waiting to unfold.
