Top Mountain Towns in Vermont for Outdoor Enthusiasts

The towns of Vermont are the most beloved among tourists for their New England charm, Countryside Ambiance, Winter outdoor activities especially cities like Stowe. Stowe in Vermont is most treasured for its delicious culinary cuisine. In addition Stowe offers many activities for outdoor lovers like a gondola ride, swimming, etc. Similarly Woodstock, Vermont is recommended for people who love stories & historic architecture. Again Manchester City in Vermont is another popular place for fly fishing and Shopping. Also Manchester has awesome Autumn foliage that you must see. For more details on the top mountain towns in Vermont, continue the Journey with us.

Best Small Mountain Towns in Vermont

Stowe

Vermont Stowe is also recognised as the “Ski Capital of the East”. Additionally, it offers a diversity of winter activities and beautiful autumn colours. Stowe is situated at the base of Vermont state’s highest peak i.e Mount Mansfield in the northern Region. Moreover this town is quite costly due to the absence of competitors locally and due to top-tier facilities. Also Stowe is just 15 mins away from Morrisville-Stowe State Airport & 40 mins away from Burlington International Airport.

Famous Sights & Experiences in Stowe

• Check out downtown Stowe especially Stowe Merchantile and Bear Pond Bookstore.
• Swimming & trekking in the Trek Moss Glen Falls and Bingham Falls. 
• Walk inside the Percy Farm Corn Maze.
• Gondola ride to the peak of Mount Mansfield.
• Trail in the Stowe Recreation Path.
• Make friends with a llama at Smuggler’s Notch.
• Skiing in Stowe Mountain Resort.

Must-Try Dish in Stowe

• Butler’s Pantry for pancakes.
• Black Cap Coffee and Beer for desserts and sandwiches.
• Doc Ponds for Vermont cheeses, Craft beers and locally sourced burgers.
• Piecasso Family Pizzeria for New York-style pies and apres-ski vibe.
• Cider Hollow Orchard for apple cider juice and cider doughnuts.
• Must visit The Cliff House restaurant on top of Mount Mansfield.

Stowe Vermont Hotels

For a luxury feel, The Lodge at Spruce Peak and Trapp Family Lodge are for you. But if you are looking for budget-friendly options, Innsbruck Inn at Stowe, The Stowe Village Inn and Stoweflake Mountain Resort & Spa are recommended.

TIP: If you are thinking of going on a Gondola ride to the peak of Mansfield Mountain, pre-book your ride in advance on Stowe Gondola SkyRide online.

Woodstock

This town gives out storybook vibes. Woodstock in Vermont USA sits at the bottom of the Green Mountains close to the Ottauquechee River. Downtown Vermont is called “The Green” because it offers 1800s-style architecture. Woodstock blends New England charm with city amenities for a better standard of living. Additionally the only national park of Vermont is in this town. While the Boston Logan International Airport is almost 2 – 3 hrs away from here, Lebanon Municipal Airport is just 30 min drive to Woodstock.

What to See and Do in Woodstock

• Explore the Marsh-Billings-Rockefeller National Historical Park.
• Look out for the Billings Farm and Museums to learn about Vermont rural culture.
• Stroll downtown Vermont to visit the Yankee Bookshop (the oldest bookstore in the state).
• Walk on the Taftsville covered bridge (the oldest covered bridge in the state).
• Shop around the Quechee Gorge in Vermont(the little Grand Canyon of Vermont).
• Ski at the Saskadena Six(one of the oldest ski spots in Vermont).
• Bike in the Green Mountains.

Local Favourites in Woodstock

• Mountain Creamery for farm-fresh brunch.
• Maple creemee desserts in The Red Rooster.
• Vermont Cheddar Cheese Fondue at Richardson’s Tavern.
• Worthy kitchen for comfort food and local beers.
• White Cottage Snack Bar for burgers and fried beside the river.
• Don’t forget Vermont’s official state dessert i.e the apple pie.

Where To Stay in Woodstock

The Shire Woodstock, The Jackson & Deer Brook Inn are best if you do not want to spend much on accommodation. But if you want to focus on experience, we suggest Woodstock Inn & Resort and the Twin Farms. Also Woodstock Inn in Vermont is a highly rated resort to stay here.

Manchester

This town in southern Vermont features both as a mountain and a resort town. To be exact it sits between the Taconic range and the Green Mountains. Manchester City in Vermont is most beloved for its photogenic streets, high-end shopping, outdoor retreat options and fly fishing. Also Manchester is 1.5 Hrs away from the Albany International Airport but just 45 mins from Rutland Southern Vermont Regional Airport.

Explore Popular Highlights & Adventures in Manchester

• Check out the 3840 ft Mount Equinox in the Taconic Range.
• skiing at Bromley and Stratton Mountains. 
• Shop at Manchester Designer Outlets.
• Go fly fishing in the American Museums of Fly Fishing.
• Tour the estate of the Lincoln family home, Hildene in Vermont.
• Hike the Lye Brook Falls Trail.
• Read at the local favourite Northshire Bookstore.

Food You Must Try in Manchester

• The Copper Grouse for wood-fired meals and cosy vibes.
• Caribbean cuisines in The Silver Fork.
• Lemon Lulu Cake in Mother Myrick’s Confectionery & ice creams.
• Black River Meat burgers in Union Underground.
• Cream cheese and boiled & baked bagels in The Works Cafe.

Manchester Hotels in Vermont

The Inn at Manchester, The Equinox Golf Resort & Spa and The Reluctant Panther Inn offer lavish stays and dining options. While Four Winds Country Motel and Brittany Motel provide accommodations within budget.

Brattleboro

Welcome to Brattleboro. This is the best mountain town in Vermont. It is widely celebrated as a city of arts. Brattleboro got its popularity after being mentioned in the book “The 100 Best Small Art Towns in America.”This artistic haven is situated between 2 rivers- the West River and the Connecticut River. Additionally Brattleboro in Vermont is also beloved to locals for its cultural events all year round, downtown street shops and fresh locally harvested meals. Additionally to reaching Brattleboro you have to drive 1.5 hours from both Bradley International Airport & Albany International Airport.

Discover Prime Sights & Activities in Brattleboro.

• Visit Brattleboro Downtown.
• Go for a show at the Ancient Latchis Theatre.
• Go for kayaking, canoeing or paddling in the West River.
• Check out the local farm produce in Green Mountain Orchards.
• Go inside the Brattleboro Museum and Art Centre.

Prime Dining Spots in Brattleboro

• Yalla for delicious piping hot falafel and pita.
• Superfresh for vegan-friendly, gluten-free and soy-free meals.
• Vermont Country Deli for Baked mac and cheese & cookies.
• Tavernier Chocolate for Maple sugar log, sea-salt dark chocolate & white chocolate with dried berries.
• Mocha Joe’s for their oat milk iced chocolate.
• Duchess Coffee for oat milk iced duchess grey latte(you can also read books here).

Brattleboro Hotels in Vermont

The Covered Bridge Inn and Travelodge by Wyndham Brattleboro are reliable for affordable accommodations. While The Inn on Putney Road and Latchis Hotel are more luxury options. 

Middlebury

Middlebury in Vermont resides in Addison County within the Champlain Valley and Lake Champlain. This is a mountain town but along with that it is also referred to as a college town. The town of Middlebury Oregon is for those people who possess a deep interest in arts and literature. Also Patric Leahy Burlington International Airport is the nearest Airport you will find almost 1 hr away from Middlebury.

Must-Visit Places and Things in Middlebury

• See the 20-foot waterfall from the main bridge in central Middlebury.
• Check out the UVM Morgan Horse Farm meant for preserving and breeding the Morgan horses in Vermont.
• Visit the Town Hall Theatre if you love music shows and artistic communities.
• Pluck out grapes and enjoy wine at Lincoln Peak Vineyard.
• Stroll around the campus of Middlebury College.
• Drive a few mins outside the town for skiing in Middlebury Snow Bowl & Rikert Nordic Centre.
• Additionally go to Lake Dunmore for swimming and boating. For context Lake Dunmore is in the Branbury State Park south of Middlebury.

Best Locations to Eat in Middlebury

• Slow-roasted prime rib in Fire & Ice Restaurant.
• wood -fired pizza and earthen oven pies in American Flatbread.
• Desserts like Sugary buns with maple-smoked bacon at Haymaker Bun Company.
• For a proper breakfast meal, Rosie’s Restaurant is recommended.
• For more flexible options, Two Brothers Tavern is suggested.

Middlebury Inns in Vermont

The Rooms at The Stone Mill and Swift House Inn are the best top-tier hotels in Middlebury. For a more budget friendly say, we would recommend The Middlebury Inn and Courtyard Middlebury. 

Killington

Killington is renowned for its best ski spots. During winter seasons this town transforms into an adventure hub for locals and tourists. Additionally the Killington Ski Area is the largest in New Zealand. The peaks of Killington mountains are the second-highest in Vermont towering up to 4241 feet. Another thing is that Killington Mountain Resort & Ski Area is the best Killington Ski Resort in Vermont. Also the Rutland- Southern Vermont Regional Airport is just 30 mins away from Killington. 

Things To Do in Killington

• Encounter serene views and wildlife on the Appalachian Trail.
• Go for a scenic trail in an ATV for the off-road thrill experience.
• Look out for Killington Mountain at Deer Leap.
• Gifford Woods State Park is a great spot for photography during autumn.
• Play Golf in Green Mountain National Golf Course.
• For a lively night go to Pickle Barrel Nightclub.
• Take a gondola ride to the Peak of Killington.
• Skiing in Killington Peak.

Eateries to Try Out in Killington

• The Lookout Tavern has the best fried chicken in Vermont.
• Wobbly Barn Steakhouse is known for sizzling steaks and seafood.
• For garlic appetisers and Italian pasta The Garlic is the best stop.
• Back Country Cafe serves American breakfast like eggs & pancakes. 
• Charity Tavern is locally loved for its smashed burgers and onion soup.
• Lastly for drinks & cocktails Liquid Art is your call. 

Recommended Hotels in Killington Vermont for your Stay

For Budget stays, North Star Lodge and Resort, The Snowed Inn and The Vermont Inn are for you. While Killington Grand Hotel and Mountain Inn are premium options. 

Bennington 

Bennington in Vermont has over 15000 residents making this town the most populous one in southern Vermont. Additionally this town serves as a turning point in the American Revolution with the Bennington Battle fought in 1777. The highest mountain peak you will find in Bennington Vermont is Mount Anthony. Another thing is that Bennington is just 3 miles away from William H. Morse State Airport. But if you do not reside nearby, then Albany International Airport is for you.

Must Check Out List in Bennington

• Visit the Bennington Battle Monument in Vermont soaring up to 300 ft in the sky.
• Tour the Bennington Museum for its extensive art collection & antique pieces.
• Tour the Glastenbury Wilderness for spooky ghost activities. Moreover you might see the legendary Bigfoot.
• Shop at Midnight in Bennington Bookshop, Gamers Grotto or Knapps in Downtown.
• Swimming, fishing and kayaking at Lake Paran in summer and ice skating in winter.
• Pay a visit to the cemetery of the famous poet, Robert Lee Forst.

Restaurants  in Bennington Vermont

• Sunny Side Diner for classic local breakfast.
• The Market Wagon for Deli Sandwiches, baked desserts and soup.
• Bennington Community Market for Vietnamese banh mi along with Korean cheesesteaks.
• Apple Barn for apple cider doughnut whoopie pies and maple affogatos.
• Lil’ Britain Fish ‘n’ Chips for meat pies, their iconic fish n chips.

Hotel in Bennington Vermont

The Four Chimney Inn, South Shire and Hotel Vervana are top hotels for accommodations in Bennington. But Kotty Pine Motel, The Autumn Inn offers the best in value with simple accommodations.

Waitsfield

Waitsfield in Vermont USA is a mountain town situated near the Mad River and surrounded by Green and Northfield Mountains. This town is best known for its 1833 ancient covered bridge and popular attractions like the Mad River Valley and the Sugarbush ski resort. The first-ever Green Mountain Coffee Roasters originated from Waitsfield. Also Waitsfield is just 30 mins away from the Edward F. Knapp State Airport.

Waitsfield Top Things and Attractions

• Drive across the Great Eddy Bridge i.e one of Vermont’s covered bridges.
• Swimming at Mad River & skiing in Mad River Glen.
• Purchase fresh produce from Waitsfield Farmer’s Market.
• Watch a solo film in the big picture theatre and cafe.
• Check out popular local shops like Mad River Glass Gallery in Downtown.
• Historic Gallery on Bridge Street features over 150 Vermont Creators.

Waitsfield Restaurants You Need to Try Out

• The Mad Taco for smoked meat, tacos and burritos.
• Canteen Creemee Company for Creemees i.e soft-serve of Vermont. Additionally check out their fried chicken and ramen combo.
• Toast & Eggs for scratch-made breakfasts like buttermilk pancakes etc.
• Lawson’s Finest Liquids for a top-tier craft brewery like Sip of Sunshine.
• American Flatbread for Earthen wood-baked pizza.

Inn & Lodges in Waitsfield

You will find the most affordable but value-for-money hotels in the Mad River Valley. It includes hotels like White Horse Lodge, Mad River Lodge and Mad River Inn. For high-end suites & experience, The Featherbed Inn & Nordic Spa & The Inn at Round Barn Farm is the best choice.

Comparison of the Best Mountain Cities in Vermont

Travel Tips

It does not matter when you go for a vacation to Vermont, but you must pack some important things like a reusable waterbottle, Bug Spray, sun cream, UV glasses and rain coats which are non-negotiable. Additionally pack outfits for all seasons because Vermont Weather cannot be predicted through the forecast. Like full sleeve tops & long bottoms for shopping. Also a comfy sweater or wool jacket, muffler, gloves, head scarf & winter coat in case of sudden low temperature. Must take non-slip snow boots for snow walking and slippers for town touring. Some other Important Tips are:

• Download offline maps for navigation.
• Check the roads and climate conditions before visiting. 
• Keep cash in hand for local purchases.
• Pre-book in advance if you’re planning to do any activity in Vermont.

Ending Note

Now the blog has ended. There are many other top places to visit in Vermont for a perfect retreat with your family. Additionally you can find many covered bridges in Vermont. We really hope that this blog helps you with your planning for a comfortable and hassle-free vacation to the best mountain towns in Vermont.  We have provided many places and hotel recommendations along with tips for your advantage. Book a charter Bus In Vermont to make the trip easy and comfortable for your family.