Best Places to Stay in Vermont in the fall: 10 towns & Hotels

Looking for the Best Places to Stay in Vermont in the Fall? I have got you covered!

With so many charming towns, beautiful fall foliage with mountain views, and scenic drives to choose from, it’s not easy when you have to decide Where to Stay in Vermont in the Fall!

Fall is the most popular time to visit Vermont, and for good reason. The foliage is unreal, the air is crisp, and everywhere you go feels straight out of a postcard. And there are so many different towns dotted throughout the state to explore! So, picking up the right base can make the difference in your Fall trip!

From charming inns, and cozy bed & breakfasts, to luxurious resorts with breathtaking fall foliage views, this post will provide you with a useful guide for the best places to stay in Vermont.

Whether you’re looking for a romantic getaway, an outdoor adventure, or a cozy weekend filled with cider donuts and covered bridges, this Post will help you to pick your own charming town to visit and best places to stay for your Vermont fall foliage getaway.

I’ll also share my favorite hotels in each town, from luxury inns to more affordable finds, so you can book the perfect spot for your autumn escape.

To help you narrow it down, I’ve picked 10 of the best places to stay in Vermont in the fall. Each one offers something a little different, whether you’re after classic foliage views, covered bridges, small-town charm, or easy access to hiking trails and scenic byways.

For each town, I’ll also include the best things to do, nearby attractions, and great places to stay, from cozy inns to stylish boutique hotels. So, let’s deep dive into it.

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Best Places to Stay in Vermont in the Fall

Vermont is very small State but there’s lots to do and see here and there are so many different towns to visit and explore. The towns are so charming and offers something unique of their own!

Let’s explore some of these top towns to visit and stay in with best hotels you can stay in & nearby.

1. Stowe, Vermont : Best Town for Classic Fall Foliage

Probably you’ve seen Photos of Vermont in the Fall, you may probably see the classical church with fall foliage views! And this famous Photo location is Stowe, Vermont. It is one of the most popular town of Vermont for visiting during fall season.

Fall in Stowe, Vermont is pure magic. This charming town is filled with colorful and vibrant foliage, cute Main Street, cute cafes, scenic fall drives, and that iconic white church with the backdrop of colorful Green Mountains. It’s No wonder Stowe is a top places to see fall foliage and one of the best places to stay in Vermont in the Fall.

There’s no shortage of things to do in Stowe in fall, whether you’re into hiking, leaf-peeping, or just relaxing with a cider donut in hand.

Fall is peak season in Stowe, so hotels fill up quickly, especially on weekends in late September and early October. Booking early if you want your pick of cozy inns and boutique lodges!

Best Things to do in and Near Stowe, Vermont

• Drive through Smugglers’ Notch(Route 108) for Stunning Fall Foliage views.
• Ride the gondola up Mount Mansfield for colorful mountain views from the top.
• Walk or bike the 5.3-mile Stowe Recreation Path amidst picturesque trail.
• Check out Underhill State Park for a great hike.
• Explore Stowe main street and browse local boutiques and antique shops.
• Visit the Von Trapp Family Lodge owned by the family made famous by The Sound of Music. It offers stunning views of the surrounding mountains! Enjoy the sunset drinks at their beerhall.
• Visit Cold Hollow Cider Mill for cider donuts and fresh-pressed apple cider.

Where to Stay in Stowe, Vermont

• The Lodge At Spruce Creek — Located in the Green Mountains, this luxurious resort offers beautiful and spacious rooms with stunning mountain views. Its best suited for families! It offers world-class amenities like its spa, and multiple dining options. It’s located close to Stowe’s best outdoor activities, and considered one of the best places to stay in Stowe, VT.
• Green Mountain Inn — Located in the heart of Stowe town, this cozy Inn offers classic New England feel. It has unique rustic rooms, an inviting lobby with a fireplace, and a tavern on site. You’ll be surrounded by classic fall foliage vibes, and easy access to the shops and restaurants. It’s the perfect central location to experience the best of fall in Stowe!
• Brass Lantern Inn — This charming B&B offers beautiful mountain views, cozy rooms, and homemade breakfasts. Also, the amenities include a hot tub, outdoor fireplace, and games room.

2. Woodstock, Vermont

If you’re seeking the quintessential storybook New England town to soak in the fall magic, Woodstock, VT is an absolute must-visit. With its maple lined streets, perfect hallmark movie type architecture, historic covered bridges, and charming downtown full of boutiques and cafés, it feels like stepping into a New England charm.

Honestly, I’d say it is prettiest places to visit in Vermont during fall. The foliage here is stunning, and there are so many places to visit nearby from scenic hikes, covered bridges and maple sugar works visit. Woodstock, VT is a great base for New England fall foliage road trip.

From scenic drives to local farmers’ markets, there are endless things to do in Woodstock that make it a favorite stop from my fall trip.

Things to do in or near Woodstock, VT

• Explore the shops and cafés around the Village Green
• Browse local crafts and antiques at F.H. Gillingham & Sons
• Visit Billings Farm & Museum to learn about Vermont’s farming history and getting a taste of Vermont’s seasonal activities.
• Hike Mount Tom– an easy hike offers stunning views of the town and surrounding mountains.
• Enjoy the vibrant fall foliage at Marsh-Billings-Rockefeller National Historical Park.
• Take a scenic drive along Route 4 to witness breathtaking landscapes and iconic covered bridges.
• Stop by Sugarbush Farm for incredible maple syrup & cheese testings.
• Take a short hike at Quechee Gorge for riverside foliage views.

Since Woodstock is the most popular places to visit in fall among travelers, and considered as one of the best places to stay in Vermont, hotels book out quickly. The charming inns and boutique hotels here are in high demand, so booking early is a must during Peak foliage season.

Best Places to Stay in Woodstock, Vermont

• Woodstock Inn & Resort — This iconic Inn is located on the Village Green. With stylish rooms, luxurious linens, a spa, and garden that burst with colors in October, this resort is perfect for romantic fall weekend getaway.
• On The River Inn — Located by the serene Ottauquechee River, this boutique Inn offers spacious suites, cozy fireplaces, heated pool, and beautiful river views. This is great place to stay for families or couples. This spot is an experience that captures the essence of fall in Vermont.
• The Shire Woodstock — A lovely B&B within walking distance of downtown, known for its traditional New England style spacious rooms, with a prime location of the property.
• Sleep Woodstock Motel — A budget-friendly option just outside of town with clean, comfortable rooms, perfect place to sleep for a night or two!

3. Burlington, Vermont

If you’re planning a fall Roadtrip in Vermont, likely you may fly into Burlington. It’s the state’s largest city, set right on the shores of Lake Champlain, and offers a unique blend of nature, culture and lovely downtown area.

Burlington is more livelier, and offers a totally different vibe from Vermont’s small mountain towns, but it’s still one of the best places to stay in Vermont in the fall. While it doesn’t have the classic small-town feel of Stowe or Woodstock, but this classic town offers the buzzing food scene, craft breweries, lake views, and stunning fall foliage views.

Fall in Burlington means crisp walks along the waterfront, cozy coffee shops downtown, and weekend farmers markets packed with local produce and hot cider. Also, the city offers more budget friendly options for the stay in downtown and around area. It is also great base to explore the small towns nearby.

Best Things to do in oR near burlington, Vermont

• Explore the Church Street Marketplace, a pedestrian-only street lined with shops, restaurants, and cafes. It’s a great place to grab a bite to eat, do some shopping, or even to people watching.
• Walk or bike along the Burlington Greenway (The Island Line Trail).
• Catch sunset at Waterfront Park or take a lake cruise on Lake Champlain.
• Stop by Shelburne Farms, that offers tours, farm-to-table dining, and hiking trails. It’s a great place to experience Vermont’s rural charm.
• Grab a local beer at Burlington Beer Company or Foam Brewers.

Where to stay in Burlington, Vermont

• Hotel Vermont — Located in downtown Burlington, this modern hotel offers contemporary design, bright rooms, a rooftop terrace with stunning views and farm to table dining experience. Its central location makes it easy to walk to restaurants and the waterfront, makes ideal location for every type of travelers.
• Blind Tiger Burlington – Located just 20 minutes walk from Church Street Market Place, this hotel looks like Mansion with very unique and stylish interiors, and spacious comfortable rooms. Each room includes a patio, bath, fireplace, and garden or mountain views.
• Green Mountain Suites Hotel — This boutique hotel offers spacious suites, perfect for big families at affordable rates. The suites comes with fully equipped kitchen, living area and spacious beds. The location is central and guests enjoy their fireside breakfast, perfect for fall gateway!
• Starlight Inn – A movie-themed motel with fun décor and clean, comfortable rooms. It’s an affordable option just outside of downtown, with easy access to the downtown and surrounding area.

4. Killington & Rutland : Budget Friendly Stay Option

If you’re looking for best budget places to stay in Vermont, Killington and Rutland are great alternatives to more pricier towns like Stowe and Woodstock.

Both are located in central Vermont, making them a convenient base for exploring the Green Mountains and surrounding areas.

Best Things to do in Killington and Around

• Killington is best known for its ski resort, but in fall, it’s all about colorful foliage. Take the scenic gondola ride to the top of Killington Peak for Panoramic views of the area.
• Visit Thunder Brook Falls. Its very easy trail and perfect for fall foliage adventure.
• If you want some outdoor experience, Visit Kent Pond and Gifford Wood State Park. The fall colors are gorgeous here.
• Nearby Rutland offers more charming town vibes with plenty of restaurants, shops, and budget-friendly accommodations. It’s also home to the Vermont State Fairgrounds, which host seasonal events in October.

Where to Stay in Killington & Rutland

• Greenbrier Inn Killington — A cozy, family-run inn just minutes from Killington Resort with a gorgeous outdoor pool and a huge gift shop on site.
• Mountain Meadows Lodge — A modern European style lodge with that offers comfortable rooms with Green Mountain views, a sauna, and sun terrace. The location is right on the Appalachian Trail means you can go for scenic fall foliage trails without needing to drive!
• Hampton Inn Rutland – An affordable choice in Rutland with modern rooms and free breakfast.
• Best Western Inn & Suites Rutland-Killington – A practical option with spacious suites, great for families or travelers on a budget.

5. Manchester, Vermont

One of the best places to stay in Vermont with small town charm and amazing mountain scenery, Manchester is a great pick.

It’s nestled at the base of the Green Mountains and offers a bit of everything – historic architecture, tree lined streets, cute boutiques, good restaurants, cozy cafes, and easy access to scenic outdoor activities. It’s one of the best towns to stay in Vermont in the fall who wants to enjoy fall foliage without crazy crowds!

Fall colors usually peak here in early to mid-October, and there are some beautiful scenic drives just outside of town. You’ll find a few historic spots like Hildene, the Lincoln family estate and other outdoor activities for perfect fall foliage experience.

The drive up to Mount Equinox offers sweeping views over the valley, and the backroads toward Dorset and Arlington are filled with classic autumn color.

Best Things to Do Do in Manchester, VT

• Drive up Mount Equinox Skyline Drive for panoramic colorful foliage views.
• Drive the Scenic Route 7A.
• Tour Hildene Estate, the former summer home of Robert Todd Lincoln, the son of President Abraham Lincoln. You can take a tour of the mansion, the gardens, and even pay a visit to the farm and greenhouse.
• Shop for local crafts, antiques, souvenirs in the downtown.
• Explore the Southern Vermont Arts Center.
• Take a short drive to nearby towns like Dorset or Arlington for more fall foliage.

Best Places to Stay In Manchester, VT

• The Inn at Manchester — This historic Bed & Breakfast is bursting with New England Charm.The rooms are incredibly comfortable with lots of options to choose from! Their suits are perfect for families. Guests rave about their breakfast and friendly staff. The Property offers swimming pool, hot tub and fire place in the room.
• Manchester View — Known for its hillside setting with Mt Equinox, this property offers comfortable rooms with private decks to view stunning fall foliage views from everywhere. It’s also perfect for couples and big families!
• Hampton Inn & Suites Manchester — A modern and budget-friendly option just a short walk from downtown.

6. Montpelier, Vermont

Montpelier is the state capital of Vermont, packed with history, beauty, and packed with small town charm of Vermont. If you’re looking for the place to stay between Woodstock and Stowe, Montpelier is the best option.

Being Smallest State Capital in the USA, Montpelier offers relaxing local vibes. The foliage here is unreal. Just wander the streets, boutiques, shops, and cafes, surrounded by the stunning fall colors plus there is an easy access to scenic drives and nearby hiking trails.

Best Things to do in Montpelier, Vermont

• Visit the Vermont State House, a stunning architectural gem. It has the most beautiful golden dome, and it looks most photogenic against a backdrop of autumn colors.
• Stroll through Downtown Montpelier and experience the charm of this small city by wandering along its streets. Browse local boutiques, shops, and art galleries.
• Take a scenic drive along Route 12 or Route 14 for classic fall foliage views.
• Explore Hubbard Park, a 185-acre park that is home to scenic hiking trails, picnic areas, and a tower that offers stunning views of the surrounding mountains.
• Go for Maple syrup testings at Maple sugar works like Bragg Farm Sugar House or Morse Farm Maple Sugar Works. Don’t forget to get Maple Soft serve here!
• Experience Farm to Table dining at locally owned restaurants.

Where to Stay in montpelier, VT

• Capitol Plaza Hotel — Located in the heart of Downtown, this hotel offers comfortable spacious rooms, friendly staff, and offers onsite restaurant.
• Artful Lodging & Retreats — This is the charming Bed & Breakfast with beautiful mountain views, historic character of house, and its located in the heart of Montpelier. You’ll be just steps away from everything you might want to visit.

7. Bennington, Vermont

Bennington is one of the most beautiful town of Vermont that combines history, natural beauty, and classic New England charm. Located in South Vermont, Bennington offers lovely downtown and main street filled with a mix of quaint shops, art galleries, and cozy cafes.

This place is beautiful at all times of the year but looks more special during the fall season! This is one of best places to Stay in Vermont in the fall, especially if you want to skip the touristy spots!

Things to do in or near Bennington, VT

• Visit the Bennington Battle Monument, a 306-foot-tall monument that commemorates a key battle in the American Revolution. Head to the top for some incredible foliage views.
• Explore the Bennington Museum, a museum that tells the story of Vermont’s history.
• Walk around the Main street, and visit the Old First Congregational Church for stunning fall foliage backdrops.
• Visit the Old Silk Road Covered Bridge for classic fall foliage views.
• Go for outdoor hiking trails like Bald Mountain Trail. The hike passes through some of the best fall foliage with river streams and small waterfalls.

Where to Stay in Bennington, VT

• Four Chimneys Inn — This beautiful inn offers a cozy and pleasant ambience, with clean and spacious rooms. It’s location is in quiet area of Bennington and known for friendliness of staff. Guests love the breakfast with the stunning views from the floor-to-ceiling windows in the stunning common room. It’s truly the best places to stay in the Vermont in the Fall for a memorable foliage getaway.
• South Shire Bennington — This is very beautiful Bed & Breakfast, located on main street. The historic building of property adds more character, with beautifully designed rooms and furniture. Guests enjoy a sun terrace, garden, and outdoor fireplace, with spacious rooms. There is an onsite restaurant that serves Thai cuisine in a traditional and romantic ambiance.
• Harwood Hill Motel — This is budget option with clean and comfortable rooms.

8. Waitsfield

Waitsfield, Vermont, a hidden gem nestled in the heart of the Mad River Valley. This charming town combines a small town charm with laid-back atmosphere. Waitsfield has vibrant downtown, where you’ll find a mix of quaint shops, restaurants, and local vibes.

Best Things to do in and Near Waitsfield, Vermont

• Take a Chairlift to Mad River Glen Ski Resort or Sugarbush Resort that offers great fall foliage views from the top. You can also opt for hiking trails here.
• Stop by the Mad River Taste Place, a specialty food store that offers a wide range of local products, including cheese, maple syrup, and craft beer.
• Take a scenic fall drive along the Mad River Byway, a scenic route that follows the Mad River and offers breathtaking views of the fall colors.
• Go for scenic hiking trails at Wu Ledges forest. This easy 2.2 miles trail offers serene fall colors overlooking Dana and Kew Hill.
• Visit the iconic Great Eddy Covered Bridge, which offers the perfect spot to capture for fall foliage views.

Best Places to Stay in Waitsfield, Vermont

• White Horse Lodge — This elegant modern Lodge offers cozy and comfortable rooms with all the amenities. It’s location offers best fall foliage views.
• Madbush Falls Hotel — Tucked away next to waterfall and river, this property offers comfortable and modern rooms, perfect for families and couples. They also have onsite restaurant and bar with outdoor sitting area. This is the best option for budget stay in Vermont in the Fall.

9. Wilmington, VT

One of the hidden gem of Green Mountains in Vermont, Wilmington offers best welcoming atmosphere in fall foliage. With its quaint Main Street, lined with unique shops and cozy cafes, Wilmington is the perfect place for a small town charm with a vibrant arts scene!

Wilmington is technically Part of Vermont’s Route 100, and offers the best of fall foliage in the surrounding areas.

Things to do in or near Wilmington, VT

• Explore the main street and browse through the shops, and admire cozy cafes. You can find a variety of unique shops and boutiques, including antique stores, art galleries, and specialty food shops. The Art of Humor Gallery and Bartleby’s Books are two must-visit spots. Visit the Village Roost for coffee.
• Go for scenic fall foliage trails at Molly Stark State Park. Hike the Mount Olga Trail, which takes you to a fire tower that you cam climb for absolutely amazing fall foliage mountain views.
• Hogback Mountain Overlook & Country Store, which is just 10-minute drive from Wilmington. The country store has an observation deck overlooking the mountains, and it offers the amazing fall foliage views.
• Explore the Harriman Reservoir, a beautiful spot, perfect for kayaking, canoeing, or simply enjoying a picnic by the water.
• Ride the Bluebird chairlift to Mount Snow Resort that offers plenty of outdoor activities like mountain biking, hiking trails, dining during the fall seasons. Click here for info and hours for the chairlift!

Where to stay in Wilmington, VT

• The Wilmington Inn — This historic Inn located on the main street, offers very unique setting with fall foliage, with comfortable spacious rooms. The suit rooms offers private Spa experience. You’ll have an easy access to all the best shops, cafes, and fall foliage views that Wilmington has to offer.
• The White House Inn — This classic New England Inn offers elegant spacious rooms with beautiful architecture. The rooms and Inn offers magical mountain views. They offers mouthwatering breakfast that will make you feel right at home. It’s very centrally located in the town, offers truly fall foliage getaway.

10. Burke (Vermont’s Northeast Kingdom): Hidden gem of Vermont

If you’re planning to visit the North Vermont, popularly known as North East Kingdom, offers the perfect blend of small-town charm and thrilling outdoor activities. Whether you want to explore stunning mountain views or exploring scenic trails, you’ll be surrounded by breathtaking beauty at every turn.

Things to do in or near Burke, VT

• Visit the Burke Mountain Resort, a popular winter destination known for its top-notch skiing and snowboarding. In the fall, the resort offers scenic chairlift rides, mountain biking trails, and great hiking opportunities.Alternatively you can drive the Burke Mountain Toll Road.
• Take the scenic drive through the route 5/5A to Lake Willoughby. It’s one of the most popular places to visit in Vermont in the fall.
• Hike nearby Mount Pisgah, at 2,751-feet summit that offers a 7-mile trail with incredible views from the top of Lake Willoughby and the nearby mountains.
• For more lake views, visit Newark Pond, and Bald Hill Pond.

Where to stay in Burke, VT

• Burke Mountain Hotel & Conference Center — Located at the base of Burke Mountain, you’ll have easy access to Ski trails in winter and breathtaking foliage views during the fall season from most of the rooms. The rooms are spacious and comfortable. It offers hot tub, Pool, and has several on-site restaurants.
• The Village Inn – This charming bed and breakfast, offers a peaceful retreat just moments away from outdoor adventures at Burke Mountain and Darling State Park. With comfortable beds, outdoor fire pits, a hot tub, and a nearby taproom, you’ll have everything you need to relax and unwind after long day of sightseeing!

Final Thoughts: Best Places to Stay in Vermont in the Fall

Vermont is one of the most beautiful places to experience a magical fall season in New England. As you can see there are so many places to visit in Vermont and many unique places to stay in Vermont during the fall. You might be tempted to visit all of them, and picking up one base can be difficult!

From the cozy vibes of Stowe, the Hallmark movie town of Woodstock, to beautiful hidden gems like Bennington and Burke, each town has its own unique vibe.

Finally, I highly recommend using this list to identify the best things to do or activities at the different places that sounds great fir for you. What kinds of things do you want to do while visiting or what interests you most? Plan your Vermont Itinerary accordingly after narrowing down your choices for perfect fall foliage trip.

And Lastly, fall is super popular season, and hotel prices shoot up and book up so fast. You should book your stay first before booking the flights!

🍁 Wish you an epic Fall Foliage adventure in Vermont this season! 🍁