17 Best Places to Visit in Vermont in Fall

Think vibrant shades of yellow, red and gold colors, charming small towns, Cool crisp air, the maple syrups, apple orchards, cozy cabins and covered bridges..! This is Vermont for you in Autumn🍁. Here I am sharing the Best Places to visit in Vermont in Fall, as honestly comes to Fall, there’s no place quite like Vermont. The Fall Foliage here is UNREAL!!

This Green Mountain State is beautiful in every season, but fall in Vermont isn’t just about the leaf peeping! It’s packed with so many scenic routes, charming towns, hiking trails, fun fall activities and quiet cafes, makes the best fall destination of the USA.

So, keep reading about the colorful best places to visit in Vermont in Fall. In this guide to Fall in Vermont covers not only where to go, but when to see the changing leaves, and where to stay along the way with scenic drives and travel tips.

The Fall foliage season is pretty close to my heart. Living in East Coast USA is truly a blessing. I have visited few of the Best USA Fall Foliage Destinations and I’m so much grateful for that.

From Smoky Mountains, Blue Ridge Parkway, to White Mountains in New Hampshire, Fall in East Coast USA is so so beautiful. But I can say, nothing can compare to fall foliage in New England. 

Here is everything you need to know about Vermont in Fall travel! This Guide is what you need to plan your perfect Vermont Fall Roadtrip. Whether you’ve only got a few days, or a full week, I’ve included the best opportunities for leaf peeping and the cutest towns you can stop during your fall foliage road trip.

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Vermont Fall Foliage Trip Planning Resources

✈️ How to get to Vermont

Vermont is located in the northeast of the USA in the New England region. It shares borders with New York, Massachusetts, New Hampshire, and Canada.

Burlington International Airport (BTV) is the major Airport in VT, located in the city of Burlington. It’s regional airport and well-connected to other cities in the USA. Though its an International airport, you can expect few flights from International carriers!

But Besides Burlington International, there are numerous state airports dotted around the area like Montpelier,VT or Albany, NY.

The Closest major International Airport — Boston Logan International Airport (BOS) is located in the city of Boston, Massachusetts. As a larger airport, you are more likely to find direct and cost-effective connections from European and other worldwide destinations to Boston. You can spend Spend one day exploring Boston before heading to Vermont!

🍁 Best time to visit Vermont for fall colors

Peak fall color in Vermont is weather dependent and varies from year to year. The fall season in Vermont runs from early September until mid-October. But Late September to Early October brings the best colors in the Northern Parts of Vermont while First Week of Oct to Mid-October generally works out better in the south. You can always check past years Peak foliage dates to decide your travel dates!

Generally speaking, the first two weeks of October are your safest bet, however, this can change every year depending on the weather throughout the year! Excessive rainfall and heat can affect the vibrancy of fall colors for that particular year.

📝 Note: My best advice is to be as flexible as you can be, follow the weather forecast, and check out this interactive map to see where fall colors are developing in the different parts of the state. If you’re flexible, then you can visit the places which are developing colors rather than seeing NO Colors at all!

Since most folks plan trips months in advance, it’s hard to know exactly when to visit for fall foliage in Vermont. But I personally suggest planning your trip for the first week of October. At worst, you might show up too early, but too early is better than too late because you’ll still see the fall colors, even if it’s between green leaves. But that also means more shades of beautiful colors!

Travel Tips for your Vermont Fall Foliage Trip

• Be Prepared for the Rain : We had absolutely full day of rain on our first day. So, pack your rain Jackets, rain boots and and warm layers when planning your fall foliage trip. It’s always about better clothing rather than better weather!
• Be Prepared for the Crowd: Vermont is most popular fall destination and experiencing fall in the Green Mountains is a once-in-a-lifetime experience for all, it draws millions of international visitors annually. So, be prepared mentally for the crowd and traffic! Take it slow and have some buffer days if you miss some sightseeing in between!
• Go Offbeat: Don’t just visit the Popular destinations and visit few hidden gems when visiting Vermont. This way you can have more real experiences without the crowd.
• Be Flexible: I know we all have limited time off, but you can’t exactly predict the Peak fall foliage dates in advance. Also, the fall foliage in Vermont peaks at different times throughout the state. The Northern VT peaks first, then the Southern region. Also, the higher elevation peaks earlier than the lower elevation. So, you can move around the dates according to the peak colors if having some flexibility in your schedule! This way you will not the peak fall foliage in Vermont.

🍁 Looking for the Best areas to Stay in Vermont in the Fall? Check out my guide for the best towns to stay in Vermont in fall here.

Best Places to Visit in Vermont in Fall

1. Woodstock

Located in Central Vermont, Woodstock is arguably one of the most famous and Prettiest town in Vermont during autumn, and for good reason. The color is breathtaking and there’s always something fun to do.

Woodstock’s main street is marked by The Green which is flanked by adorable cafes, beautiful and interesting stores adorned with the American flags.

You can spend a couple of hours walking around the Main street. When visiting Vermont in the fall, you can expect to find seasonal delights such as pumpkin-spiced lattes and pumpkin pies all over the menus.

Must see Sights and things to do in Woodstock

• Check out the local souvenirs shops, the Yankee Bookshop, The Norman Williams Public Library for more things to do in Woodstock, VT.
• Sitting on the banks of the Ottauquechee River, the Woodstock Middle Covered Bridge is one of the best tourist attractions to see.
• History buffs can check out the Woodstock History Center.
• You can gran local Vermont-made cheese from Woodstock Farmers Market.
• Stroll along Elm Street, Pleasant Street or River Road for beautiful houses adorned with American flags with backdrop of colorful fall foliage.
• Visit the Beautiful Woodstock Inn and surroundings. Located on main street, this beautiful Inn is perfect for Photo with colorful fall displays.
• Visit Billings Farm and Museum — working farm with an outdoor history exhibition about agriculture. You can explore the animal barns, pastures, tractor collection, kitchens, and 1890s farm manager’s lodge.

Check out my detailed guide about the best Things to do in Woodstock in Fall.

2. Jenne Road Farm

You’ll find Vermont’s fall magic in small rural towns with farmlands. And one such place is Jenne Road Farm — a picturesque agricultural estate consisting of red hued outhouses and barns. It’s so photogenic with backdrop of Vermont fall colors and you’ll find it all over social media.

You can’t visit the farm from inside but you can always stop for a quick photo. Jenne Road Farm is located 15 minutes south of Woodstock, off State Route 106.

3. Sugarbush Farm

Located 15 minute drive from Woodstock, Sugarbush Farm is a 500-acre family-owned farm which is known for its its fine production of cheeses and pure maple syrup.

After getting to the farm, you can follow the short nature trail in the woods where you can see how maple trees are tapped and learn more about how they collects the sap. There is also a cute little farm chapel tucked away behind the fall leaves.

You’ll also have the opportunity to see how maple syrup is made in the sugarhouse as well as visit the workroom in which the cheese is wrapped and waxed by hand. You can also go for maple and cheese testings!

The farm is open to the public and there is No charge to visit and wander around the wood trails. However, it’s encouraged that you make a purchase from the farm shop to support the business. This is according to me, one of the best places to visit in Vermont in fall for fun fall activity!

4. Quechee Gorge

Quechee Gorge, known as Vermont’s “Little Grand Canyon” – is a beautiful gorge, a short drive away from Woodstock, VT. 

Formed during the last Ice Age, the glacier-carved gorge is 165 feet deep. You’ll get the best views of the Gorge from the bridge over the gorge and the Ottauquechee River. This viewpoint provides incredible views of fall foliage in Vermont.

If you’re up for the hike, there is a short trail that leads you down the bottom of the gorge along the river. If you have more time then you may also want to check out the hiking trails in the Quechee State Park.

5. Quechee Covered Bridge

Vermont is famous for its historic covered bridges. Built in 19th and 20th centuries, they are located all over the New England states including Vermont. Their original purpose was to avert flooding caused by heavy snowfall conditions, provide safe shelter, and make local farmers’ lives easier. 

Nowadays, these covered bridges are icons to Vermont and biggest tourist attractions, making it some of the best places to visit in Vermont in fall.

One such beautiful bridge with waterfall is Quechee Covered Bridge , located just off Interstate Route 4 and marks the entrance to Quechee village. Though its constructed in 1970, its famous for its scenery with backdrop of fall foliage displays.

There is a waterfall besides the Bridge, a viewpoint, and a designated walkway for pedestrians which makes it one of the best places to visit in Vermont in fall.

While you’re here, don’t forget to visit the Simon Pearce Blown Glass Factory, located right next to the bridge on High Street. They also have a restaurant on site offering breakfast,Lunch and dinner. The grounds are absolutely beautiful.

6. Stowe : Must Visit to see Fall in Vermont

Nestled in the northern part of Vermont, Stowe has is Popular leaf peeping destination since 1835! But whatever time of year you visit Stowe, you’ll love this quaint town.

The surrounding hills become more alive in fall and you’ll feel like you stepped into the sound of music in Stowe. Stowe’s Main Street is characterized by heritage buildings, cafes, and boutiques where you can sip a warm Pumpkin latte with crisp air! The town is as charming as you can imagine!

Best Things to do in Stowe

• Walk the main street, visit the souvenir shops, grab a coffee, and head up to Tangerine & Olive gift shop to get a view of the town and the Stowe Community Church.
• Walk the Stowe Recreation Path , a perfect walking trail for all. This 5.3-mile walkway is paved and takes you from the town center right up to the Top Notch Resort on Mountain Road. You’ll encounter some of the best fall foliage in Vermont!
• Ride the Gondola from Stowe Mountain Resort to Mount Mansfield – the highest peak in Vermont and home of Camel’s Hump. You’ll enjoy stunning views from the top!
• Visit the Historic Gold Brook Covered Bridge
• Visit the Snowboard Museum to know more about the history of Skiing in Vermont. There are exhibits of Ski and Snowboards equipments, clothing and artwork.

There are so many wonderful things to do in Stowe that you are recommended to spend 2-3 days in this adorable town.

7. Smuggler’s Notch State Park: Scenic drive in Vermont in Fall

Smugglers’ Notch State Park is located at the foot of the Stowe Mountain Resort. It offers various hiking trails, perfect for the fall foliage colors !

And the access to Smugglers’ Notch from Stowe requires you driving along a scenic road with epic views along the way in fall season. Driving through Smuggler’s Notch is one of the best thing to do during autumn in Vermont.

This curvy road once used by Smuggler’s, offers best colors along with opportunity to hike the beautiful trails. You can choose the trails according to your fitness level from easy to moderate. OR simply drive the winding roads and gawk at the fall color on either side.

Note that the notch gets busy during peak fall foliage in Vermont, so you’ll want to arrive early in the morning to avoid crowds. You can say, this is one of the most scenic places to visit in Vermont in fall.

🍂 Planning your New England Fall Trip? Read my One Week Boston To Maine Fall Road Trip Itinerary.

8. Moss Glen Falls

Located, 10 minutes drive from Stowe, Moss Glen Falls is truly spectacular especially during fall. With a drop of 85 feet (25 meters), Moss Glen Falls is the tallest waterfall in the whole of Vermont.

The trails is very east and short, and well-signposted from the parking lot. Just note that, towards the end of the walk, you will meet a fork in the path. At this point, you can either go left up a steep section to the right to follow the outer edge of the river to the base of the falls. The latter is not advisable during periods of heavy rainfall.  

You can walk to the waterfall in as little as 20 minutes from the car park. This is one of the best hikes to experience when visiting Vermont in the fall.

9. Cold Hollow Cider Mill

Vermont Fall roadtrip is incomplete without testing some fresh Cider, right?? So, friends visit this Super Popular Cold Hollow Cider Mill in Waterbury, VT (short 15 minutes drive from Stowe). And honestly, after visiting this place, I get why it’s worth the hype!

Don’t forget to have fresh apple cider donuts, a creamy or hot cup of cider, whatever you like! It’s best best apple donuts I had till date! You can also go for hard cider flights! You can take the tour of the production facility for free. The fresh cider testing is right there!

If you’re staying near Stowe, you can come for the breakfast at the cafe early in the morning.

I must say visiting the Cold Hollow Cider Mill is a worthwhile stop during your road trip to see fall foliage in Vermont.

10. Original Ben & Jerry’s Ice Cream

Who loves Ben & Jerry’s Ice Cream?? I guess all of us right! So, if you’re leaf peeping in Vermont in fall, stop by Original Ben & Jerry’s factory.

Ben & Jerry’s was founded in Vermont and visitors are welcome to tour around the facility. But Make sure to book the tour well in advance, it often sold out quickly.

Come hungry here because you’ll find an endless array of flavors at the place where it started!

Make sure to swing by the Flavor Graveyard to pay your respects to the flavors that were put to rest. You might even come across one of your old favorites! How cool is this right?

Ben & Jerry is super close to Cold Hollow Cider hill, makes it perfect stop when visiting Stowe or Woodstock, Vermont in fall.

11. Burlington

Burlington is a largest city in Vermont and the most liveliest! It is located on the shore of Lake Champlain in Northwest Vermont. You might end up fly into Burlington International Airport. So, its worth taking some time to explore one of the exciting Places to visit in Vermont in fall.

Best Things to do in Burlington in Fall:

• Head to the Waterfront Park for beautiful views across the lake Champlain. You can also hop on a scenic cruise to see the beautiful fall foliage.
• Stroll through Church Street in the heart of Downtown Burlington. It is a pedestrian-street lined with restaurants, and shops.
• Burlington is legendary for its craft beer so make sure you factor in time to sample a brew or two while you’re in the city.

• One of the strangest tourist attractions in Burlington surely must be the World’s Tallest Filing Cabinet. It was built by local artist Bren Alvarez in 2002. Each of the 38 drawers represents the number of years of paperwork that Alvarez accumulated while working on a specific assignment. It’s really fun attractions to visit in Vermont in fall.
• Have Bagels at Myer’s Bagels in Burlington in Morning. They are cooked in wood fired oven! So delicious!!

12. Montpelier

Montpelier is the capital city of Vermont. The city is small and charming, with tree lined trees that come alive with fall colors during autumn in Vermont. There are beautiful grand buildings, green parks, and cultural places of interest. If you want to brush up on the history of Vermont, Montpellier is the best place to do so.

• One of the major landmarks is the Vermont State House, distinguished by its gold-domed Greek Revival architecture, backed by colorful leaves every autumn.
• For high level up views, visit Hubbard Park and climb the observation tower to see the Panoramic Views of Vermont Fall foliage colors.

• It requires a short drive out of town but the Bragg Farm Sugar House, another must for anyone with a fondness for maple syrup. You’ll get a demo of how the world-famous Vermont syrup is made. Try a maple creamy and indulge in maple candies or buy maple syrup-themed sweets from the gift shop. 
• Make a stop at Burtt’s Apple Orchard. Located on the hillside, you can pick apples and drink fresh apple cider. The location is so stunning!

13. Lake Willoughby

Unarguably, one of the most beautiful places to visit in Vermont in Fall.It’s located in the northeastern part of the state, about a 1-hour drive from Stowe. The lake is known for its dramatic cliffs and fjords, often called the “Lucerne of America”!

The lake is surrounded by two mountains, Mt Hor and Mt Pisgah (collectively known as “Willoughby Gap), and it provides best fall views from the top!

There are so many popular trails in but the most popular trail is the Mount Pisgah North Trail which leads up to the top of the mountain and offers a scenic panorama. You can also explore the marina and lakeshore or go for a swim, if you can brave the cold!

But the Lake is most popular for its stunning fall colors. The route that encircles Lake Willoughby is renowned for being one of the best places to see fall foliage in Vermont.

There are a few different spots around the lake where you can park up and take a short walk to get some great photos. Alternatively, you can drive all the way around the perimeter road for more Photo opportunities.

14. Manchester, Vermont

One of the best destinations to include in your list of Places to visit in Vermont in Fall is Manchester, another shire town. Located in Green Mountain National forest, Manchester is one of the most charming towns to visit in Vermont in Fall.

From Main street to the back roads, everything is surrounded by mountains, giving you full advantage for leaf peeping! The town has two popular Ski resorts nearby and they offers beautiful foliage views from the top.

Main Street features low-slung buildings and a white steeple church. You can explore the town center on foot, dipping into independent stores, designer boutiques, and coffee shops.

Things to do in Manchester, VT

• Walk through the charming main street of the town for fall foliage.
• Visit the Vermont Country Store: It has so many interesting items on display — from real Vermont maple syrup to a delightful bakery, cheese, quality clothing section for all age, and an abundance of interesting souvenirs. It’s the best spot to buy souvenirs in Vermont plus the store itself is so adorable with foliage backdrop and decorations in fall season. Also, don’t leave without trying the Maple Creamy (a soft-serve maple syrup ice cream) before leaving.
• Explore Hildene, Lincoln’s Summer Home: Tour this beautiful estate that is filled with so much history. But don’t forget to snap a photo of the estate with gorgeous mountain backdrop with fall colors!
• Scenic Mount Equinox Skyline Drive to view the summit of Equinox Mountain(the highest peak in the Taconic Range)! The mountains and colors are absolutely magical. This seasonal road closes at the end of October.
• Visit the Southern Vermont Arts Center, an open-air sculpture gallery that looks even more stunning during the fall season.
• Visit the most popular Northshire Bookstore.
• Take a scenic drive through Stone Valley Scenic Byway and visit the adorable town of Dorset, VT.
• Ride up a chairlift and enjoy the views from Bromley Mountain Ski Resort’s Observation Deck or ride the Gondola at Stratton mountain Resort. Choice is yours but both offers gorgeous mountain views during fall foliage.
• The Red Gate Trail to Equinox pond is very popular Fall foliage hike to get the landscape views of Mount Equinox and Equinox Pond. Reflections are stunning here!
• Make time to stop on your route at the Dutton Farm Stand – it’s lovely and perfect for Pumpkins!

15. Bennington

Located in the southwest of the state, Bennington is known as Part of “The Shires” (county seats) in Vermont. It’s a beautiful town to spend a day or two in while exploring southwest Vermont. 

• The Downtown Bennington Historic District is rich with heritage buildings including Old First Church, galleries, Bennington museum.
• Visit the Bennington Potters(largest working craft potteries in USA). There are many small shops and it’s a beautiful spot for the fall.
• A Short walk out of the center takes you to Bennington Battle Monument. Within the obelisk, ride an elevator to the top of the monument for 360-degree views of Vermont in the fall. You can also see the states of New York and Massachusetts. 
• If you love hiking check out the hiking trails in the nearby Lake Shaftsbury and Woodford state park.

16. Waitsfield, Vermont

This picture perfect town lies in the Mad River Valley which sits between the Green Mountain Range and the Northfield mountains. Route 100 (most scenic drive of VT) is the main road through this cute town.

Visit the Waitsfield Farmers Market or grab some coffee and sandwiches before you start your leaf peeoping adventure! Stop for Photo at Waitsfield Village Covered Bridge with beautiful foliage.

Waistfield is a quintessential Vermont town and should definitely be on your list for your Vermont fall road trip.

17. Drive the Scenic Vermont Byways in Fall

Vermont is very rural state but it offers so many beautiful fall foliage driving routes. Just rent a car and go on any scenic byways of Vermont to enjoy the foliage. From winding roads through charming downtowns, to views along mountain ranges, find your next excursion along a byway route in Vermont.

You can always take the scenic roads when leaves are putting on a show! Here are some of Most popular Scenic Fall foliage drives to take in Vermont in Fall:

• Scenic Byway RT 100: One of the most scenic driving route in Vermont. It runs from Central Vermont to South Vermont for 146 miles (5 hours without stops). Though you can drive part of it route from Killington- Waitsfield – Stowe for a beautiful fall foliage show! You can imagine why this is the most popular foliage drive in Vermont.
• Middlebury Gap: Route 125 is a stunning road full of foliage in the middle of the State!
• Mad River Byway: This 36.5 miles byway provides scenic walk along Mad River in Green Mountain National Forest. It winds its way through Middlesex, Waitsfield, Warren, Buels Gore and Granville. It’s known for archeological, cultural, historic, natural recreational activities. Read more about Mad River Valley here.
• NorthEast Kingdom Byway (RT 30): Drive the 51-mile scenic byway, exploring the Saint Johnsbury, East and West Burke to Newport. You can enjoy miles of stunning views with plenty of stops including famous Peacham, Barnet and Burke Dog Mountain.
• Route 7: This route follows along the western side of the state and dips into Massachusetts and Connecticut (which I recommend doing if you have more time!) Stop in Bennington, Manchester, Middlebury, and Burlington.

There’s so much to see, so pick your own route and go for the drive from North or south!

🍁 Best Things to Do in Vermont in Fall

The best part about road tripping Vermont in the Fall is that you can’t go wrong! Just drive anywhere, get lost the track of time and just explore this beautiful state in fall season. There is so much to do in Vermont in fall foliage season, but here are my favorite recommendations for you:

• Apple Picking – Burtt’s Apple Orchard near Montpelier
• Maple Syrup Testings – Sugarbush Farm, Queeche or Bragg Sugar House, Montpelier
• Getting lost in a Corn Maze – Percy Corn Maze
• Going to a Pumpkin Patch – The Dutton Farm Stand is incredible! Near Manchester,VT
• Eat HOT and fresh apple cider donuts – Cold Hollow Cider Mill near Stowe
• Picking Souvenirs – Cabot Cheese Store or The Vermont Country Store, Weston

Vermont features an abundance of mountain views and winding roads that are perfect for a picture. And, there are plenty of wonderful fall festivals in Vermont. Check it out here!

🏩 Best places to stay in Vermont in Fall 

If you are planning a road trip around Vermont in fall, then you will have the opportunity to stay in several towns and villages as you drive across the state….from North to South there are plenty of options from charming bed and breakfasts, cozy cabins and luxury resorts to choose from. Even if you aren’t on a short trip, I would recommend having at least two bases during your trip. 

You can also choose to stay in the larger towns if you follow this Vermont in Fall Guide. You can opt to stay in Burlington or Montpelier as well as smaller places, like Stowe and Woodstock. These towns place you within close proximity to the most visited tourist attractions of Vermont.

Personally, I would recommend choosing Woodstock and Vermont as bases for your Vermont trip.

🏨 Best places to stay in Stowe, Vermont

• Luxury: Trapp Family Lodge
• Mid-range: Green Mountain Inn
• Budget: Northern Lights Lodge

🏨 Best places to stay in Woodstock, Vermont

• Luxury: Woodstock Inn & Resort
• Mid-range: The Shire Woodstock
• Budget: Sleep Woodstock Motel

🏨 Best Places to Stay in Burlington, Vermont

• Mid Range: Holiday Inn Express South Burlington
• Budget: Starlight Inn

🏨 Other Areas around South Vermont

• Bennington: South Shire
• Manchester: The Inn at Manchester
• Waitsfield: 1824 House
• Montpelier: The Inn at Montpelier

🚘 How to get around Vermont in the fall

Practically, the only way to get around the whole of Vermont is to rent a car. Unfortunately, public transportation in this part of the country is almost nonexistent which means you won’t be able to visit all the best places to visit in Vermont in the fall.

Most of the best places to visit in Vermont in Fall are actually the smaller roads and tucked-away towns you can stumble upon accidentally!

The roads are in good condition and there are plenty of parking spots so it’s a piece of cake driving a car in Vermont. So, I highly recommend to rent a car for your Vermont fall foliage trip.

🚖 Check Rental Cars in Vermont.

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