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Updated 9/14/2023
There’s no question, a visit to Vermont during Fall Foliage is downright magical. The crisp, fresh mountain air, resplendent bursts of color on every tree, delicious cider donuts, plus that glorious crunch of fallen leaves underfoot. No matter if the weather is moody and dramatic, or shining bright and radiant - everything is just…a vibe.
If you’re looking to escape to the trailside mountains of the Northeast Kingdom or take in a sunset overlooking Lake Champlain, there are options aplenty. You can luxuriate with world-class spas or immerse yourself in rugged nature, and everything in between. Wherever you choose to stay, when you come to Vermont during foliage, you’re in for a treat.
That being said, there are a few places that go above and beyond in terms of amenities, or service, or location that will help make your trip even more memorable. Each of the properties below have something entirely special in store for you. Without further ado, here are thirteen of the best places to stay in Vermont during Fall Foliage.
Stratton, VT
Southern Vermont’s highest peak is the perfect vantage point for dramatic Fall foliage vistas. With concerts and harvest festivals happening nearly every weekend at Stratton during Foliage, your Autumn itinerary here will be jam-packed with peepin’.
On a clear day, a hike out to the fire tower will be rewarded with views clear across the state and the Gondola ride up or down can make it a breeze (that view!). Be sure to make it up for Brewfest when local breweries from around the Green Mountains come to pour their latest pints.
Also, don’t forget to hit up some of the best lift-serve mountain biking in the state with terrain for all skill levels. If shopping is more your speed, strolling the village shops is a must - and the country-chic town of Manchester is just a few minutes down the road.
The lodging options up here are just as varied and epic as the activities, with trailside townhouses, luxury suites, and mountain lodges all acting as the perfect home base for your VT experience. From top to bottom, Stratton is your one-stop destination for all that is Foliage.
What guests are saying: “This place is incredible - it is an entire town wrapped around a ski mountain. Ate an amazing dinner at mulligans, followed by a relaxing stay at the Black Bear Lodge, which included pool and free breakfast. The mountain was top notch and was lucky to see maybe half of it during a full 8-hour day, that's how much terrain they have. Overall, amazing place to make memories with friends and family.”
Vergennes, VT
Set on 700 acres on the shores of Lake Champlain, it is hard to imagine a more stunning getaway than Basin Harbor. Open from early Summer through late Fall for more than 130 years, Basin Harbor is the lakefront, luxury Summer Camp of your dreams. And trust us, it’s even more drop-dead gorgeous in Fall.
Get in a round or two on their lakefront 18-hole championship golf course in the morning, and follow it up with waterskiing, paddle boarding, and boat rentals in the afternoon. Don’t forget the tennis courts, biking trails, and sailing!
With lush lakefront cabins, you’ll have front-row seats for romantic sunsets, and be able to fall asleep to the gentle lapping of the waves each night. **Swoon**
What guests are saying: “Super great place. Bring the kids, the boat, and the golf clubs. Stay a weekend or a week. The staff is awesome and the amenities are amazing. Pool is warm. The Red Mill is a great place to catch up with friends. There is a grass runway if you prefer to fly. Come check it out even it's only a day. You won't regret it.”
Grafton, VT
2+ Guests | $189/night
Everything about the Grafton Inn is downright delightful. From the bucolic village thoroughfare to the front porch with rocking chairs, you will instantly feel at peace and at home.
The forty-two individually decorated rooms, suites, and guest houses are spread out across the inn’s property and help provide a quaint sense of community and belonging. Be sure to stop in for a drink and dinner at the hand-hewn 200-year-old wooden barn-turned-pub, and also explore the hamlet of Grafton itself.
Nearby you’ll find Grafton Village Cheese (some of the best cheese in the state!) and also don’t miss the Grafton Trail Network to fully immerse yourself in the fall beauty. With plenty of hiking and biking trails to explore, you’ll be able to find your next adventure in no time.
What guests are saying: “We love the Grafton Inn! And it's never looked more beautiful with its lovely property and wonderful dining venues from the Phelps Barn to the Garden Room to the formal dining room. Every room is different with charming antiques and super comfy bedding. The town is adorable and a wonderful get away destination for refreshment and the beautiful Vermont location. Plus the staff is exceptional!”
Stowe, VT
Nestled less than a mile from the heart of Stowe, The Summit House promises an unforgettable retreat into Vermont’s picturesque landscapes. This renovated A-frame cabin combines the warmth of a home with the luxury of a 5-star resort, offering guests an experience that goes beyond a typical rental.
The cabin comfortably houses up to six guests with three tastefully decorated bedrooms and a spa-style rainfall shower to unwind in after a day of adventure. The modern amenities like a wood-burning fireplace, 50" TV, and glass-wall bedroom that lets morning light gently filter through the forest set the tone for a cozy and tranquil getaway.
Whether it's sipping your morning coffee with views of the woods or enjoying a movie night by the fireplace, The Summit House ensures a stay that is as relaxing as it is captivating. And with downtown Stowe just a stroll away, you're never too far from vibrant restaurants and recreational opportunities.
What guests are saying: “We had a great time at the Summit House! Just as pictured in the photos. Unique style with cool decorative touches. Waking up with the view of the trees was absolute bliss. The beds and linens couldn’t be more comfortable, awesome shower. Easy location with close proximity to Stowe town for easy access to loads of activities!”
Morristown, VT
Sleeps 10 | $900/night
Like something out of a fairytale, this majestic timber frame barn is jawdropping. Massive fieldstone fireplaces (both inside and out) make for the ideal gathering space for group getaways.
The 4-story attached silo houses a domed bunkroom, two bedrooms, and a bathroom, and is a showstopper. If you’re looking for your own private Foliage estate, the nearly 300 acres of mountain views, country fields, ponds, and treehouses are just what you need.
All of that, but just 15 minutes from the shopping and dining options of downtown Stowe. The ideal location for family get-togethers and holidays, this Vermont classic checks all the boxes.
What guests are saying: “What a dreamy location for a family gathering of the generations. This breathtaking structure comfortably housed 14 of us, with a couple of couches to spare! We enjoyed breakfasts and dinners I. The grand dining area, made fires both inside and out, watching the stars and playing games in the evenings. My grandkids loved the paddle boat on the pond and the magical Forest of the Witches Hat Treehouse. We even got to enjoy a remarkable storm from the great window that we won’t soon forget. Memories were made and will be treasured.”
Lyndonville, VT
2+ Guests | $144/night
The sweeping mountain and valley views from the Wildflower Inn are dramatic and beautiful. Located in the Northeast Kingdom of Vermont, the Wildflower Inn is a favorite of many visitors, but the proximity to Kingdom Trails, makes it an especially beloved establishment for those looking to mountain bike during their Foliage adventure.
Rest assured though, just because you might be getting after it on the single-track doesn’t mean your accommodations need to be similarly rugged. Just the opposite, the suites and cottages at the Wildflower are cushy and welcoming and the on-site restaurant and pub are delicious.
Don’t miss out on hiking nearby Mt. Pisgah as the views over Lake Willoughby below will be something you’ll never forget. Keep in mind, Foliage comes early to this Northernmost part of the state, so be sure to plan your leaf-peeping itinerary accordingly.
What guests are saying: “This place is Vermont turned up to 11. The gardens are perfectly taken care of, the service is wonderful, the views are a postcard, and the attention to detail is outstanding. They address so many little touches that add up to a terrific overall experience. Things like fresh cookies and hot cider in the afternoon (GF available by request!), or a basket of warm blankets to grab when sitting outside, or catering to the terrific mountain biking scene in the area (Kingdom Trails). It's actually more like a mini resort than an inn. The rooms are clean and comfy and have everything you would want. Be aware - no TV in the rooms, on purpose, but WiFi is strong. Good place to bring kids as well with a nice pool, playground, games, and tons of grounds to run around on. Love, love, love it here.”
Eden, VT
Sleeps 2 | $65/night
If peaceful, tranquil, and serene are what you’re after, here it is. This tiny lakefront cottage might only be 240 sq. ft, but the charm factor is huge. Enjoy your morning coffee with unbeatable mountain and lake views on the front deck. Relax with a good book at the counter inside or in the king-sized bed up in the loft.
A full kitchen and bathroom are on hand, along with two tv’s, but the main reason to come up to Lake Eden is to unplug and relax. There’s great hiking all over (Devil’s Gulch is a favorite), and you’re directly in between Stowe and Jay Peak if you’re looking for a little excitement. Our top recommendation? Take a breath of fresh air, unwind from life’s craziness, and enjoy.
What guests are saying: “It is as close to waterfront as possible, it’s amazing! The deck is suspended over the water and that’s where I spent most of the time: eating my meals, reading, doing yoga. The inside space is clean and more than sufficient for 1-2 people. I loved being able to go for a swim so easily. The sun sets directly across from the cottage and the lake is so peaceful. There’s very light boat traffic. I truly hope to return again and again to get away and recharge. I’m definitely planning to rent the main house with my family too!”
Stowe, VT
Sleeps 12 | $3150/night
Similarly tranquil, but significantly more luxe, the Stowe Glass House is an architectural masterpiece. With walls of glass windows facing Mt. Mansfield, your foliage view from every direction is nothing short of spectacular.
Five bedrooms, including a spa-like master suite, allow for group and family getaways, and the 13-foot vaulted ceilings and stunning fieldstone fireplace of the living room are the perfect setting for one heck of a game night. There’s a large game room with pool table and tv, as well as an unreal cedar sauna (with wine rack!).
For us, however, the pièce de résistance is the private heated swimming pool. Just turn down the lights and gaze up at the clear Autumn night sky full of stars and take a dip. Now that’s living.
What guests are saying: “We had a great time both with family and with friends. The house is well-appointed and we had everything we needed! The view is breathtaking and it was a joy to get up early and have the house to myself for a little while! There were many good suggestions for hikes in the owner's guide - and we chose to do one each morning, all followed by the afternoons in the pool! Well-needed break for us all!!!!”
Manchester, VT
2+ Guests | $311/night
One of Vermont’s great estates, The Wilburton was built in 1902 as a Gatsby-esque mansion and it is just as dazzling today. Perched high on a hill The Wilburton has some of the best foliage views in Southern Vermont, with long sightlines into the valley below.
The 15-room main estate is joined by numerous cottages, bungalows, and mansions offering accommodation for every size of gathering. The grounds are filled with beautiful, thoughtful artwork and a stroll through the property’s acreage is downright unforgettable.
Located in historic Manchester, there is no shortage of shopping and dining to choose from, but one of our favorite Fall gatherings happens every Sunday at The Wilburton’s sister property Earth Sky Time’s concert series. Everything Wilburton is magical and top-notch, and this exquisite family-run establishment is high atop our must-visit list.
What guests are saying: “What a spectacular place to get away. Something out of a great novel. Gilded age mansion - but complete with all the modern conveniences. The property is just gorgeous - green mountains surrounding the beautiful lawn and refreshing evening breezes at night. My room was lavishly appointed and enormous. And what a view to wake up to - mists over the hills. Had me thinking of the musical Brigadoon. Made great use of the pool and tennis court. My hosts were gracious accommodating and generous. I'm definitely coming back.”
Woodstock, VT
2+ Guests | $289/night
Bucolic Woodstock is often called the most beautiful town in America, and at the heart of it sits the Woodstock Inn & Resort. New England charm and elegant accommodations set the stage for this 142-room resort, where you’ll find multiple on-site dining options, a LEED-certified world-class Spa, and luxurious golf, tennis, biking, and fishing facilities.
To give a taste of the next-level-’ness’ of the Woodstock Inn, you’ll even find a Falconry Center on-premise where you can learn and have hands-on encounters with the Sport of Kings. Mic drop.
For Fall fun, it doesn’t get much more quintessential than a stroll through the downtown, finding historic architecture, shops that have been open for more than 130 years, and excellent restaurants. Woodstock is pure Fall perfection.
What guests are saying: “This resort is the most elegant inn my wife and I have ever been to! It is incredible and the grounds are manicured to perfection…the staff is wonderful with a sense of pride in where they work. Our Tavern room was impressive with all the amenities you could ask for…if you want to be treated like royalty, then The Woodstock Inn has to be your only stop!”
Warren, VT
Sleeps 10 | $1257/night
This brand-new, mid-century inspired vacation rental is set to impress. An open-concept cathedral-ceilinged great room and professional-grade chef’s kitchen are just a few of the amenities that make this home special.
With four bedrooms, including a bunk room, you and nine friends are able to live it up in style. Located just a few minutes from Lincoln Peak and Mt. Ellen, this Mad River Valley house is ideally suited for prime leaf peeping.
Gorgeous mountain views from every room will get you excited to get out into the mountains for the day. When you come back home in the evening, you’ll be able to relax by the fire and then jump in the 8-person saltwater hot tub. An oasis in the mountains.
What guests are saying: “This home is simply immaculate, artfully and intelligibly designed, and a pure pleasure to stay in. My brother and I both grew up cooking and baking, the kitchen is what sold us initially; it certainly did not disappoint. From the well-stocked pantry, amazing cutlery, china, cooking supplies, utensils, and appliances, it felt like cooking at home. The home is modern and welcoming, the owner supplied an obscene amount of complimentary local products, including beverages, snacks, and bath/body care products. Beyond that, he was quick to respond to every question and was more than helpful in fulfilling any and every request. I cannot say a single bad thing about this property, beyond a doubt one of the best vacation experiences I have ever had. Cannot wait to stay here during ski season.”
Windham, VT
Sleeps 3 | $281/night
Just because you’ll be sleeping amongst the trees, doesn’t necessarily mean you’ll be roughing it. Case in point, this luxury tiny house. Set in a beautiful pine, birch, and maple grove you’ll wake up in the perfect spot to experience all that a Vermont Autumn has to offer.
Minutes away you’ll find national forests with ideal Fall foliage hiking, as well as quaint country stores, local farmer’s markets, and mouthwatering restaurants. Back at the cabin your stay is cozy, luxe, and soon to be the envy of all your Instagram friends.
With a full kitchen, drop-down movie projector, queen-sized loft, and one of the most tranquil soaking tubs we’ve ever seen, you’ll be fully immersed in nature, and completely pampered. Take a deep dive into Fall this year and experience big living in tiny luxury.
Stowe, VT
2+ Guests | $169/night
A stay at the Green Mountain Inn is as Vermont as it gets. Historic charm and character supported by quality modern comfort and a seemingly endless variety of amenities.
A gorgeous year-round outdoor pool, fire pits, fitness center, and one of our favorite ski-town taverns, the Whip Bar & Grill. Ideally located right in the heart of downtown Stowe, you’ll find country stores, shopping boutiques, art galleries, and museums all within one block of your room.
Stowe itself seems something from a postcard with white steeple churches, towering mountains with bright foliage, covered bridges, and hiking trails and biking paths everywhere you turn. Stowe knows how to do Fall foliage right, and your time at the Green Mountain Inn is bound to be just as spectacular.
What guests are saying: “I can’t say enough good things about The Green Mountain Inn! We had the most romantic little weekend getaway here. Location was perfect- we were able to walk pretty much everywhere. The room was absolutely perfect (fireplace, jacuzzi tub, nice shower, comfortable bed) and the amenities were spectacular (bar/restaurant, pool/hot tub, fire pit.) Everyone was so incredibly nice and accommodating from check-in to check out, we really didn’t want to leave. This place is straight out of a Hallmark movie and we already can’t wait to come back!”
