Manchester's Fall Harvest Day returns to Factory Point Green on October 18 for three hours of live music, pumpkin decorating, face painting, and free activities for all ages. The completely free event anchors a packed October calendar that includes cider tastings, mountain brewery festivals, and Halloween celebrations across town.
Between now and the end of the month, Manchester delivers fall programming beyond just foliage drives. You'll find craft beer tastings at Stratton, corn mazes at Equinox Valley Nursery, carved pumpkin displays downtown, and a grand finale Halloween celebration at SVAC. Here's your guide to Manchester's harvest season, starting with the main event on October 18.
When: Saturday, October 18, 2:00-5:00 PM
Where: Factory Point Green, downtown Manchester
Cost: Free
Heritage Family Credit Union and the Manchester Business Association know how to throw a harvest party. The October 18 event at Factory Point Green delivers the essential fall festival experience without the admission price. Three hours of live music, hands-on activities, and community connection make this the gathering that helps define Manchester's autumn.
Local nonprofits drive the activity lineup. The Northshire Day School, Manchester Community Library, Maple Street School, and MEMS PTO host stations throughout the green - pumpkin decorating, cornhole tournaments, face painting.
The Kimpton Taconic Hotel provides free popcorn all afternoon. When you're ready for something sweeter, Wilcox Ice Cream and Bubbles Bakes sell treats that taste even better when the temperature drops.
The afternoon culminates with the annual Pumpkin Carving Contest display. Submitted carved pumpkins line up for judging, showcasing everything from traditional jack-o'-lanterns to intricate artistic designs. If you're entering the contest, you'll want to register by October 16 - entries span multiple age groups with categories for Spookiest and Most Creative, and local businesses contribute fantastic prizes.
Before Fall Harvest Day arrives, two major events kick off the mid-October festivities.
When: October 11-12, 11:00 AM - 6:00 PM
Where: Local Maverick and Split Spirits, 96 Depot Street
Local Maverick and Split Spirits launches its inaugural CiderFest with two days of Vermont cider tastings, exclusive Apple Brandy releases, and 20-plus Vermont brands. This isn't a massive fairground operation - it's a curated experience at 96 Depot Street that puts craft cider front and center.
Registered guests receive 10% off in-store purchases, and non-alcoholic cider options keep the event family-friendly. Proceeds support NOFA-VT's Farm Share program, connecting tastings directly to Vermont's agricultural community.
When: October 10-13
Where: Stratton Mountain Resort
Twenty minutes from downtown Manchester, Stratton Mountain packs four days with three distinct events. Saturday's Brewfest brings Vermont craft beer, live music from The Mallet Brothers and Saints & Liars, a mac and cheese cook-off, and kids' adventure camp. Sunday shifts to Oktoberfest mode - The Amish Outlaws perform, stein hoisting competitions test your stamina, and beer brats disappear fast.
Monday's Race to the Summit challenges participants to run, jog, or hike to Stratton's 3,875-foot peak. The prize? An Ikon Base Pass. Even if you're not competing, the gondola ride operates through mid-October, delivering panoramic views of peak foliage across the Green and Taconic ranges.
Several Manchester autumn traditions run throughout the month, letting you build your own harvest itinerary.
When: October 7-19 (voting period)
Where: Participating businesses throughout Manchester
Downtown storefronts compete for the title of Fall Harvest Decorating Champion through October 19. Pumpkins, gourds, hay bales, and mums transform shop windows across town. Online voting determines the winner, and businesses genuinely commit to their displays - this isn't a few pumpkins on a doorstep situation.
Walk the downtown corridor, snap photos of your favorites, and share them with #ManchesterVT.
When: Saturdays October 11, 18, 25
Where: Sun Lodge & Trailhead Restaurant
Sun Lodge runs three Saturday afternoon pumpkin carving parties designed specifically for families. The $30 per child package includes a pre-hollowed pumpkin, stencils, kid-friendly tools, warm apple cider, toasted pumpkin seeds, and a kids' meal from Trailhead Restaurant's menu.
Spooky fall story time rounds out each session. Pre-hollowed pumpkins mean kids focus on design instead of struggling with the messy extraction process - a detail that matters when you're working with younger carvers.
When: Now through October (weather permitting, closed Tuesdays)
Where: Equinox Valley Nursery
Equinox Valley Nursery transforms its North Field into fall festival central. Tractor-drawn wagon rides deliver Green and Taconic Mountain views, the corn maze tests navigation skills, and the pumpkin patch stocks every shape and size you need for decorating or carving.
The on-site shop carries Halloween decorations, pumpkin carving kits, local maple syrup, and seasonal décor. Scarecrows stationed throughout the property add charm without veering into over-done territory. Plan for a couple hours - the combination of activities and shopping keeps families engaged longer than expected.
When: Saturday, October 25, 2:00-5:00 PM
Where: Southern Vermont Arts Center
SVAC closes October with Halloween on the Hill, a free afternoon (registration required) that combines magical illusions by Tom Joyce, spooky musical stories from the Trillium Quartet, face painting, fortune telling, and an art scavenger hunt across the campus.
The costume parade remains the event's centerpiece, with separate competitions for kids and pets. School band performances, trick-or-treating stations, and arts and crafts round out the programming. SVAC's hilltop location adds atmosphere - the property's 407 acres provide natural Halloween ambiance without artificial haunted house dramatics.
Come for Fall Harvest Day on October 18 and you'll catch the Decorating Contest voting period, plus the mid-point of pumpkin carving season at Sun Lodge. Start your weekend with CiderFest tastings, head to Stratton for Brewfest, then return to Manchester for Sunday farmers market shopping.
The beauty of Manchester's harvest calendar lies in its concentration. Everything happens within a 20-minute radius, businesses coordinate rather than compete, and the town's compact downtown means you can walk between events. Factory Point Green sits at the center of it all, making Fall Harvest Day your natural anchor point for exploring Manchester's autumn offerings.
Bring layers - October afternoons start warm but cool quickly once the sun drops behind the Taconics. Parking fills up near Factory Point Green on event days, but the municipal lots on Center Hill Road and Seminary Avenue stay accessible. Register in advance for events requiring it - the Pumpkin Carving Contest closes registration October 16, and Halloween on the Hill fills its capacity early.
Our camera sweeps over the quiet pastures of Hildene's dene on this August afternoon, capturing the sprawling farm that stretches below Robert Lincoln's hilltop mansion. The greenhouse gleams in the sunlight, vegetable gardens overflow with late-summer abundance, and a few alpacas lounge in the shade - one sprawled so dramatically that visitors regularly call the welcome center to inquire as to it’s well-being (Spoiler: they're just expert sunbathers.)
If this place looks magical now, just wait until September 26th when these stunning 412 acres transform into the setting for one of Vermont's most authentic harvest celebrations. Hildene’s Autumn Harvest Festival isn't just another fall event - it's what happens when 200 neighbors gather at golden hour for the kind of dinner party that could only happen in the Green Mountains.
"We want people to experience the real Hildene," explains Christine Furman as she walks us through the festival setup. This isn't the mansion tour that many visitors know. Down here in the dene - the Old English word for "valley with stream" that partially gives Hildene its name - the Lincoln legacy lives on through working agriculture, conservation efforts, and genuine community connection.
The Lincoln connection to Manchester runs deep - Robert Todd Lincoln, Abraham's only surviving son, first visited this area as a young man and was so taken with Vermont's beauty that he eventually purchased 412 acres to build what he envisioned as his family's ancestral home. Today, that same spirit of gathering and renewal infuses every aspect of Hildene’s Autumn Harvest Festival.
Following Christine's practiced route from the stone wall entrance to the greenhouse, you can almost see the September evening unfolding. Guests will park inside the historic stone wall - the same boundary Robert Lincoln established - then walk or take the farm tram over to check in at the schoolhouse, where they'll receive their drink tickets and get their bearings.
The festival entrance flows naturally through the greenhouse, where welcome banners will guide visitors into the heart of the celebration. The festival previously ran as a donor appreciation event, but this marks its debut as a ticketed community celebration, capped at 200 people to maintain that dinner party intimacy.
The timing couldn't be more perfect: 4 PM to 7 PM, with dusk settling around 6:40 PM - creating an evening where late-afternoon sunshine gives way to golden hour magic as you dine surrounded by some of Vermont's most stunning mountain valley views.
Step through the greenhouse and you'll discover a harvest extravaganza. Ann, one of Hildene's talented master gardeners, creates massive displays of vegetables pulled fresh from these very plants - including curiosities like cucumber melons that taste exactly as their name suggests, with a hint of lemon sweetness that stops first-time tasters in their tracks. A must try!
Don’t sleep on the Apple Pie Contest! Eight local bakers have already signed up, with local judge John Burnham from the Manchester Business Association among the lucky panel. Each baker brings two pies - one for judging, one for serving - and Pangea's Grill (who handles all the delectable catering) will slice and serve the samples once the competition concludes.
Twisted Horn Brewery (connected with Glebe Mountain nursery) is providing the beer, so be sure to be ready for a frosty pint or two!
What elevates this beyond typical harvest celebration is Hildene's serious conservation work. The Randall Cattle grazing these nearby pastures represent an endangered breed with fewer than 1,000 individuals worldwide. Their sole purpose here? Increasing herd numbers to preserve genetic diversity. Plans are underway to add up to 20 more cattle, making Hildene a significant player in saving this historic New England breed.
It's the kind of behind-the-scenes mission that gives weight to every aspect of your visit. You're not just attending a festival - you're supporting conservation, education, and the preservation of Robert Lincoln's vision for this land.
As afternoon gives way to evening, lively bluegrass music will set up along the fence line, creating the perfect soundtrack for flower picking, cornhole games, and those inevitable photo ops with farm animals who've learned that festivals mean extra attention.
The silent auction runs throughout the evening and continues from September 19th through October 5th, featuring experiences you can't book anywhere else: private tours, garden consultations with Hildene's own experts, sensational photo sessions on the property to capture memories you simply can't create elsewhere, and much more!
Tickets sell online only through September 12th - no last-minute purchases at the gate. Adult tickets include food, activities, and one drink ticket, with additional drinks available for purchase. The festival runs rain or shine.
The 200-person cap means intimate rather than overwhelming, community-focused rather than glitz and glam. You're more likely to chat with the gardener who grew your dinner vegetables than stand in line behind strangers.
In our drone footage, Hildene's farm appears as a green oasis between mountain ridges, a working landscape that's remained largely unchanged since Robert Lincoln's time. By September 26th, those same fields will host harvest bounty at peak season, autumn light that photographers dream about, and the kind of genuine community gathering that makes you remember why you love Vermont.
The best dinner parties happen when great ingredients, good people, and perfect timing converge. Mark September 26th on your calendars - Hildene is about to prove that Vermont does harvest season better than anywhere else.
Hildene's Autumn Harvest Festival
Friday, September 26, 2025, 4-7 PM
Tickets available online through September 12th
1005 Hildene Road, Manchester, Vermont
Learn more and purchase tickets at hildene.org
This lodging guide is brought to you in partnership with the Manchester Business Association, connecting you with the businesses and experiences that make Manchester, Vermont, a premier adventure destination.
Picture your perfect summer getaway: friends gathered around a fire pit after a day of tennis, families lounging by a heated saltwater pool while kids explore acres of manicured grounds, and groups spreading out across historic cottages that feel like your own private estate. This isn't a fantasy - it's exactly what happens when guests discover the Inns of Dorset, where "Vermont's own small resort" delivers that magical grown-up summer camp experience to the entire family.
Just six miles from Manchester's bustling outlets and restaurants, Dorset offers something distinctly different: an authentic Vermont village where marble sidewalks lead to white clapboard buildings, and hospitality feels genuinely personal. "People come here and say, I feel like I've just stepped into something special," says Renee Wymer, who helps manage the collection of distinctive properties. Here, multiple properties for every type of guest and group, create the perfect base camp for your Southern Vermont adventure.
The beauty of the Inns of Dorset lies in their ability to accommodate any group configuration imaginable. Whether you're planning a multigenerational family reunion, a girls' getaway, or a romantic escape, the staff excels at matching guests with their ideal accommodations across four distinct property types.
For the Classic Vermont Experience: The Dorset Inn stands as Vermont's longest continuously operating inn, offering elegantly appointed guest rooms in a building that has welcomed travelers since 1796. The rooms feature period charm with modern amenities, and the inn's prime position directly across from both the Dorset Union Store and the charming Dorset Library (complete with resident pugs) puts you at the absolute heart of village life. Step out your front door and you're instantly immersed in Dorset's walkable charm.
For the Resort Experience: Barrows House sprawls across six acres as a true small resort with a delightful story to tell. Originally built in 1804 as the pastor's house of the nearby Stone Church on the Green, today it houses 27 guest rooms and suites scattered across eight enchanting buildings. The main inn holds eight upstairs rooms, while the remaining accommodations occupy wonderfully converted outbuildings that spark the imagination - stay in the former blacksmith's cottage where iron was once forged, the elegant stables that now house luxury suites with soaring ceilings, or the whimsical former chicken coop transformed into a cozy retreat. Each space tells its own story while providing authentic historic character seamlessly balanced with modern amenities like air conditioning, fireplaces, and spa-quality bathrooms.
For Group Getaways: The 1880 House offers whole-house rental accommodations perfect for larger groups, sleeping up to 14 guests in a stunningly restored historic farmhouse setting with multiple bedrooms and common areas for gathering.
For Varied Group Needs: The Guest Houses collection offer an impressive range of options located throughout the village. Church Street Cottage features three bedrooms including a King Master Suite, plus a screened porch and fully equipped kitchen for those wanting a home-away-from-home feel. For truly spectacular gatherings, Seven Springs House sits on 70 private acres with five bedrooms, multiple living areas, floor-to-ceiling windows showcasing mountain views, and an optional barn that can accommodate four additional guests - making it ideal for family reunions or special celebrations.
Here's where the Inns of Dorset truly shine: their room configurations work for real groups, not just the standard hotel setup.
Planning a girls' getaway weekend? The lower level of Bluejay cottage at Barrows House offers three king rooms, each with its own ensuite bath, plus a common living room where you can gather for morning coffee, afternoon wine, and late-night conversations. The wood-burning fireplace (complete with kindling and firewood service) creates the perfect backdrop for reconnecting with friends.
Traveling with family? Properties like Cardinal Retreat include separate spaces with fold-out sofas - perfect for kids while giving parents their own retreat. Multiple cottages offer exactly what multigenerational families need: private rooms for everyone with shared common areas that feel like your own vacation house.
For couples traveling together, several buildings provide the ideal setup: individual suites with shared outdoor spaces, pool access, and tennis courts just steps away - creating the perfect setting for a romantic weekend away where you can enjoy both privacy and resort-style amenities.
What transforms these accommodations into something special is how they create that grown-up summer camp atmosphere. At Barrows House, the heated saltwater pool becomes the social hub, surrounded by tennis and pickleball courts where guests challenge each other to friendly matches, then cool off with poolside snacks. A convenient cabana features classic summer fare like ice cream sandwiches and cold drinks, plus you can order lunch from the amazing Dorset Bakery menu and they'll pick it up for you.
The pool house offers the perfect spot to grab refreshments between activities, while the courts provide endless entertainment. Tennis and pickleball equipment is provided for all Inns of Dorset guests, making it easy to start an impromptu game.
Common spaces throughout the properties invite gathering - lending libraries stocked with books and games, cozy living rooms with fireplaces for evening conversations, and outdoor terraces perfect for morning coffee or sunset cocktails.
All properties share a remarkable breakfast experience - full sit-down service where you order off the menu rather than face a typical hotel buffet. It's served each morning at either The Dorset Inn or Dorset Bakery, bringing together guests from across the collection to start their day properly fueled.
From any of the properties, you're perfectly positioned to explore some of Southern Vermont's best hiking. The Gettysburg Quarry Hike offers a nearly half-mile trek with 800 feet of elevation change, perfect for intermediate hikers seeking spectacular quarry views. For something easier, the Lower Prince Quarry takes just 30 minutes along mostly flat terrain to reach a peaceful viewpoint. Adventure seekers should tackle Gilbert Lookout - 1.6 miles with over 1,200 feet of elevation gain leading to views of the Adirondack Mountains.
For gentler pursuits, the 35-acre Pinnacle Forest provides perfect family-friendly walking, while Cutler Memorial Forest features quaint walking trails and a charming bridge crossing the Mettawee River - you can explore the entire property in about 45 minutes.
The village itself rewards exploration. H.N. Williams General Store might look like a simple gas station but plan at least an hour (or more!) to wander through the rambling space where you can buy everything from maple syrup and cozy sweaters to tractor parts and horse feed - plus they make some out-of-this-world lunches! The Dorset Union Store also offers excellent sandwiches and local products, while the village green provides the perfect spot for picnics or simply soaking in that quintessential Vermont atmosphere.
You'll immediately recognize how walkable and welcoming Dorset truly is. From your inn, you can stroll marble sidewalks to the village green, pop into the library or art gallery, catch a show at the renowned Dorset Theatre Festival (read more about that here), or simply wander the streets admiring the white clapboard architecture that defines authentic Vermont.
This accessibility means you can truly relax - park your car upon arrival and explore everything on foot. The village rewards this slower pace with unexpected discoveries: hidden gardens, historic markers, and those perfect photo opportunities that capture why people fall in love with Vermont.
Each property offers something different, but all deliver that elevated summer camp feeling that makes Dorset special. Whether you're drawn to The Dorset Inn's historic charm, Barrows House's resort amenities, the 1880 House's group-friendly setup, or the intimacy of the guest houses, you're choosing more than accommodation - you're choosing a temporary membership in one of Vermont's most authentic communities.
Reserve ahead for late summer and early fall - this is prime time in Vermont, when weather is perfect for outdoor activities and fall foliage begins to really show off. Call directly to discuss your group's needs; the personal service starts with that first conversation about finding your perfect match.
Ready to experience Vermont's own small resort? Visit Inns of Dorset to explore all four properties and find your perfect Dorset escape.
This lodging guide is brought to you in partnership with the Manchester Business Association, connecting you with the businesses and experiences that make Manchester, Vermont, a premier adventure destination.
The check-in process at Holiday Inn Club Vacations Mount Ascutney Resort feels different from the start - you're not getting a cramped hotel room, you're getting keys to a spacious villa that serves as your Vermont headquarters. Tucked into Brownsville's quiet mountainside, this isn't just another place to sleep between Vermont adventures. It's your strategic headquarters for exploring the Connecticut River Valley's hidden gems, with enough space to spread out adventure gear and enough comfort to truly unwind after days spent discovering what makes this corner of Vermont special.
Mount Ascutney Resort sits in that sweet spot every traveler dreams about - close enough to everything, far enough from the crowds. From your villa's front door, you're 15 minutes from Simon Pearce's glassblowing workshop, 20 minutes from Woodstock's village green, and practically next door to Mount Ascutney State Park's hiking trails. But here's what really sets this location apart: when you return from a day of gorge-gazing at Quechee or brewery-hopping at Harpoon, you're not cramming into a standard hotel room. You're coming home to 970-1,600 square feet of villa space with a full kitchen, separate bedrooms, and a living room where everyone can actually spread out.
The resort's position in the Connecticut River Valley creates natural day-trip loops. Head south to explore the covered bridges and artisan shops, swing west to tackle mountain adventures, or venture north for brewery tours and scenic drives. Each evening, you return to the same comfortable base - no packing, no check-outs, no wondering where you'll rest your head next.
Mount Ascutney State Park delivers on Vermont's outdoor promises without requiring a long drive. The 3,144-foot summit trail rewards hikers with views stretching across three states, while the lower trails offer gentler family-friendly options. What makes having the resort as your base so valuable? You can tackle the challenging summit hike knowing you'll return to your villa's full kitchen to refuel properly, not survive on vending machine snacks.
The resort's proximity to the Connecticut River opens up water adventures most mountain lodging can't offer. Kayaking, fishing, and seasonal whitewater rafting become easy additions to your itinerary when you're not spending hours driving between activities and accommodations.
Twenty minutes from Mount Ascutney Resort, you'll find that Quechee Gorge earns its "Vermont's Grand Canyon" nickname with a 165-foot drop that stops conversations mid-sentence. The bridge viewpoint captures the classic photo, but the trail to the bottom - and yes, back up - provides the real adventure. After working up an appetite on the gorge trails, Simon Pearce restaurant and glassblowing workshop in nearby Quechee village combine Vermont dining with artisan craft demonstrations.
Woodstock, the postcard-perfect Vermont village, sits close enough for easy afternoon explorations. The village green surrounded by historic homes, covered bridge photo opportunities, and Billings Farm & Museum's hands-on agricultural experiences, will fill an entire day. But returning to Mount Ascutney Resort means your kids can process the day's adventures in their own space while adults enjoy wine on the villa's deck, planning tomorrow's discoveries.
The resort's connection to Vermont's food and beverage scene runs deeper than just location. The Maple Kitchen restaurant sources ingredients from local growers and partners with regional distillers, serving dishes like maple candied bacon and cider glazed Maplewood smoked ribs. Open Thursday through Monday from 5-9pm, it provides the perfect wind-down dinner after vigorous adventure-filled days.
What really distinguishes Mount Ascutney Resort as an adventure basecamp becomes clear in the evenings. While other accommodations offer a standard bed and bathroom, you return to villa amenities that enhance rather than detract from your Vermont experience. The full kitchen lets you prep trail snacks and store local cheese purchases properly. The separate living areas mean different family members can decompress in their preferred ways - teens in the game room, adults around the fire pit, younger kids at the 7pm movie showing with free popcorn.
The resort's unique amenities create their own mini-adventures. The cinema-style movie theater with daily showings becomes the perfect rainy-day backup plan or evening wind-down activity. The outdoor fire pit area, surrounded by Adirondack chairs with Mount Ascutney views, provides the quintessential Vermont evening experience without leaving the property. Also, don't miss out on the game room with billiards, darts, and foosball tables to further amp up the family competitions.
The villa setup also solves practical adventure challenges that standard hotels can't address. Hiking boots dry properly in the mudroom areas. Adventure gear spreads out in living rooms without creating chaos. The washer and dryer in each building means you can refresh clothing mid-trip rather than over-packing. Full kitchens allow for proper pre-hike breakfasts and post-adventure refueling.
Mount Ascutney Resort delivers on Vermont vacation promises that other accommodations struggle to match. You get authentic local connections through The Maple Kitchen's regional sourcing and proximity to working farms and artisan workshops. You experience genuine outdoor adventures with Mount Ascutney State Park and Connecticut River activities literally at your doorstep. And you enjoy comfortable, spacious accommodations that enhance rather than limit your vacation experience.
The Connecticut River Valley location puts you in Vermont's heart without tourist-trap crowds. Brownsville maintains authentic small-town character while providing easy access to the region's marquee attractions.
Ready to establish your Connecticut River Valley basecamp? Mount Ascutney Resort offers summer promotions including 20% savings and daily resort credits for Thursday-Sunday arrivals. Your Vermont getways are waiting - and they all start with those villa keys that unlock both comfort and adventure.
For reservations and current availability at Holiday Inn Club Vacations Mount Ascutney Resort, visit their website or call directly to discuss villa options and local adventure planning.
The transformational journey at The Sparkle Barn started with damaged paint. When Stacy Harshman peeled off a Christmas decal in her Wallingford barn and took the wall paint with it, she faced a choice: repaint or get creative. She chose mosaics. Then added glitter. Then opened up an entire upstairs space. What began as covering paint damage evolved into The Bloom Room - an immersive retail art installation within The Sparkle Barn that's drawing visitors from hundreds of miles away to this unique Vermont destination.
Stacy moved to Vermont from flat Illinois cornfields with a mission that sounds almost impossible: create "unrelenting beauty everywhere." When she emails herself project goals, that's literally what she writes - unrelenting beauty everywhere. It's the kind of artistic manifesto that could mistakenly sound pretentious, except when you experience what she's built, you understand she means it authentically and completely.
After selling her paintings on Facebook gained traction in 2016, she found this 1800s barn through a simple Google search and opened The Sparkle Barn six months later. The retail space came first - a curated collection that reflects her unique artistic eye. "I want it to be fun, colorful, surprising, humorous," she explains about her merchandising philosophy. "Everything has to tickle my funny bone or make me happy."
But the real transformation happened when that Christmas decal damaged her upstairs wall.
Step through stained glass windows from an 1880 French bakery and you're immediately inside a retail space that would be impressive on its own merits. This converted 1800s barn creates an atmosphere of cozy exploration - exposed beams overhead, thoughtfully lit displays, and that indefinable sense of discovery that only comes from spaces with genuine history and character.
The barn's natural architecture provides the perfect canvas for Stacy's vision. Themed rooms flow organically - a "crow room" installation filled with crystals and mystical treasures, woodland creature sections, aquatic displays, and carefully curated collections that feel more like gallery exhibitions than traditional retail. Even without what's upstairs, this would rank among Vermont's most engaging shops.
But then, you notice the stairs to your left.
Climb those stairs and prepare for sensory transformation. The Bloom Room hits you like stepping into a living dream - visitors regularly pause at the top of the stairs, mouths slightly open, absorbing what their eyes can't quite process. Multiple groups emerge with the same reaction: "Whoa. This is something special."
This is immersive in ways photographs can't capture. Breathing flower sculptures pulse with hidden motors. Massive crepe paper chandeliers - installed using engine jacks and pulley systems - frame intimate seating areas draped in fabric that creates an all-encompassing embrace. The space simultaneously overwhelms and calms, like forest bathing but with a side of retail therapy.
What makes Stacy's vision so extraordinary is how she balances sensory abundance with deep tranquility. "I want to make it as beautiful as possible to wow myself," she explains, "because I want to have fun." This isn't art for art's sake - it's designed specifically to transform how you feel. One guest book entry captured it perfectly: "I'm a 93-year-old child who finally found her wonderland."
The space and concept draw inspiration from Meow Wolf's immersive installations, but Stacy has created something uniquely Vermont - intimate, handcrafted, and focused on joy rather than spectacle. Every detail serves the mission of transformation, from the 35 historical stained glass windows, each representing a different artist's vision, to the carefully positioned seating that invites lingering.
Here's what sets this apart from any other attraction: you don't observe the art, you inhabit it.
The downstairs barn space showcases why Stacy's artistic sensibility transforms everything she touches. This isn't your standard gift shop filled with generic tourist items - it's a carefully orchestrated shopping experience that would be destination-worthy even without the upstairs installation.
The historic barn's natural charm provides the foundation: original exposed beams, generous spaces that invite browsing, and that sense of stepping into Vermont's authentic past. But Stacy's curation elevates it into something unprecedented. Every piece gets selected through her artistic filter - everything must be "fun, colorful, surprising, humorous, and beautiful."
Dig deeper and you'll find fair trade companies in Colombia employing women with disabilities, Thai artisans representing 20 master metalsmiths and two villages, and hand-illustrated cards from England that showcase craftsmanship you can't find anywhere else.
Amy, Stacy's partner in retail magic, handles merchandising with an artist's touch, creating what feels like "an art installation of its own," as Stacy puts it.
The Sparkle Barn has evolved into something unprecedented - a retail space that's also a community hub. Their monthly "Singo" musical bingo events sell out immediately, packing 40 to 45 people upstairs for sing-along bingo. Their recent 8th anniversary party drew 500 to 600 attendees, complete with cake and celebrations that spilled throughout the property.
Events range from sound baths with crystal bowls to comedy shows, from short plays to educational "Sparkle Shorts" on topics like biomimicry. The space hosted everything from improv to bands before COVID, and they're ramping back up with carefully curated experiences that match the magical atmosphere.
Before venturing inside, explore the front property's Magical Garden - an outdoor wonderland featuring the star attractions that helped start this whole journey. When families began showing up after COVID with their children dressed in their "sparkliest outfits," Stacy realized she wanted to offer more than just retail. "I want to give them more than just a store," she decided.
The garden features life-sized dragons and unicorns that create Instagram moments and spark pure childhood joy. But there's substance behind the whimsy - a thoughtfully designed space where "what brings happiness to kids" guided every decision. Dragons, unicorns, mermaids - Stacy tapped into timeless sources of wonder and made them tangible.
The Dragon Story Walk winds through this magical landscape, featuring a collaborative tale written by four people (including a Dungeons & Dragons master). Follow the path with blow-up dragons marking each chapter, reading along or listening to the audio tour. The journey culminates in a discovery box and honorary membership cards for the "Land of Sparkle Dragons" - interactive storytelling that extends the indoor magic into Vermont's natural beauty.
The Sparkle Barn operates year-round except Tuesdays, with each season bringing fresh energy and new discoveries. Summer has been particularly buzzing since Yankee Magazine featured the Bloom Room as editor's choice for top 10 things to do in Vermont this summer with a full-page spread.
Pro tip: children often arrive in their "sparkliest outfits," so encourage kids to dress the part. The space welcomes families but appeals equally to adults seeking beauty and wonder. "We have a lot of people say it's calming," Stacy notes. "We have a lot of people who come up here, they don't buy anything and I'm fine with that. For it to be people's happy place to get away from this mad world - it makes me feel good."
Stacy's not stopping with the barn. She's 70% complete on converting a 26-foot moving van into a "bloom room party truck" featuring custom restaurant booths and, naturally, unrelenting beauty everywhere. The bright pink wrapped truck will serve as a mobile version of the experience, potentially for weddings, events, or simply spreading joy throughout Vermont.
Even bigger dreams include expanding bloom rooms to children's hospitals and creating festival spaces on their 17-acre property. When asked about her ultimate goal, Stacy lights up: "I really want to figure out a way to take bloom rooms to children's hospitals or places where people need uplifting." We have absolutely no doubt that she will succeed in this pursuit - the vision extends beyond retail into community healing and joy creation.
Location: 1509 US Route 7 South Wallingford, VT (~20 minutes north of Manchester)
Hours: Year-round except Tuesdays - call for exact hours.
What to bring: Sense of wonder, camera for magical photos, patience for browsing unique treasures
Best for: Families, art lovers, couples, individuals, anyone seeking Instagram-worthy experiences, rainy day activities.
The Sparkle Barn proves that the most magical experiences often begin accidentally - with damaged paint, creative solutions, and an artist's willingness to follow inspiration wherever it leads. In a world of corporate retail and manufactured experiences, this feels authentically transformative.
Reserve time for both levels, bring your sense of play, and prepare to see retail reimagined as art installation. Just don't blame us when you start planning your return visit before you've even left.
Visit The Sparkle Barn and discover why visitors travel hours for this one-of-a-kind experience.
This wellness guide is brought to you in partnership with the Manchester Business Association, connecting you with the businesses and experiences that make Manchester, Vermont, a premier destination.
The jewelry catches your eye first. Sharon Herman's handcrafted silver pieces glint under the warm lighting at Aunt Bonnie's, drawing both locals and tourists deeper into what might be Manchester's most unexpectedly essential stop. What starts as casual browsing for an artisan bracelet often turns into something entirely different - a conversation about sleep, stress, or that anxious dog waiting back at the hotel or rental.
Located in the heart of Main Street, Aunt Bonnie's has quietly become the place where Manchester visitors and locals find solutions to wellness concerns that might have slipped past their own radar, all without the potential intimidation factor of a traditional dispensary. This isn't about getting high at all - it's about getting help.
"People might just be coming in to browse the shops," explains owner Vallis Goodermote, "and then they see CBD, and they're curious about it. They can get educated in a warm, welcoming environment versus feeling like they're doing something wrong."
The difference is immediately apparent. Rather than the clinical feel of a pharmacy or the uncertainty of a dispensary, Aunt Bonnie's feels like what it is: a health and beauty boutique where wellness can happen to include cannabinoids. The shelves blend skincare, aromatherapy, and jewelry with CBD products, creating an environment where curiosity trumps hesitation.
Goodermote's journey to natural wellness began with a personal wake-up call. "Years ago I had a reaction to a fragranced laundry product - and ever since, synthetic scents and chemical-laden skincare have continued to cause issues," she explains. That moment sparked a deep dive into everyday household items - laundry detergent, dryer sheets, plug-in air fresheners, candles. "It was an eye-opening discovery finding that many products contain synthetic chemicals that can be irritating, hormone-disrupting, or harmful to our long-term health."
This personal experience, combined with becoming more ingredient-conscious during pregnancy, shaped the store's philosophy: prioritizing natural ingredients that are mostly plant-based and scented with pure essential oils, while avoiding phthalates, parabens, and synthetic fragrances.
For travelers, particularly, this matters. Many visitors might never venture into a dispensary, but they'll absolutely wander into a boutique that feels more like a thoughtful gift shop than a medical facility.
The 2 AM Wake-Up Call Here's what Aunt Bonnie's customers know: CBD isn't just about falling asleep - it's about staying asleep. "People will take a CBD gummy to help them stay asleep at nighttime," Goodermote notes. "There are people who wake up 2 a.m., 4 a.m. They wake up two, three times a night."
For travelers dealing with new beds, different time zones, or just the general disruption of being away from home, this becomes invaluable. The store's sleep-focused CBD gummies have become a go-to for visitors who want to actually rest during their Manchester getaway.
The Vacation Dog Dilemma Then there's the challenge every pet owner faces: keeping dogs calm during travel. Aunt Bonnie's pet CBD chews address the specific anxiety triggers that come with vacation - car rides, new environments, being left in hotel rooms or Airbnbs. "The calming CBD helps keep your dog calm while they're on vacation," Goodermote explains. "It helps them be calm and relaxed without sedating them."
This isn't about knocking out an anxious pet; it's about taking the edge off so both dog and owner can actually enjoy the trip.
Post-Adventure Recovery Manchester's hiking trails are irresistible, but they're also demanding. Visitors regularly come into Aunt Bonnie's after tackling Lye Brook Falls or attempting Mount Equinox with aching backs and sore muscles. The CBD pain stick offers a natural alternative to traditional pain relief, helping active travelers recover so they can make the most of their remaining vacation days.
What sets Aunt Bonnie's apart is the emphasis on education over sales. Goodermote, who discovered CBD during the pandemic as a stressed mom of two teenage boys, understands the confusion surrounding the product. "When we started, it was like, 'Oh, I don't want to get high,'" she recalls. "Now people are learning about milligrams and cannabinoids, but there is still some confusion."
The store provides guidance on dosing based on weight and individual needs, explains the difference between CBD and marijuana, and offers completely THC-free options. It's the kind of personalized education that online shopping can't provide.
One thing not to sleep on is the jewelry selection. The jewelry isn't just decoration - it's part of the story. Sharon Herrmann, who's been crafting jewelry for 40 years, represents the local artisan tradition, while the Ed Levin Studios pieces connect to 70 years of Vermont jewelry-making history, starting in Bennington's Hawkins House.
This blend of established craft and modern wellness creates something unique on Main Street. Visitors can leave with a handcrafted bracelet and a natural sleep aid, supporting both traditional Vermont artisans and innovative wellness solutions.
What to Try:
Price Range: Jewelry starts at $18 and goes up to over $1000, CBD products typically around $50, skincare from $20-$80
The Approach: Come in curious, leave educated. The staff prioritizes helping customers understand what they're buying rather than pushing products.
Local Integration: The store features regional makers and small, often female-owned companies, maintaining that Vermont connection to natural, handcrafted quality.
Aunt Bonnie's works best when you have time to browse and ask questions. The staff can explain dosing, discuss specific needs, and help you understand what you're buying. The store also ships for $4.99, so if you discover something that works during your visit, you can easily reorder from home.
What makes Aunt Bonnie's special isn't just the products - it's the approach. In a world where wellness can feel complicated or intimidating, they've created a space where curiosity is welcomed, questions are answered, and solutions are found. For Manchester visitors, it's become the unexpected stop that solves problems they didn't even know they had.
Ready to explore natural wellness solutions? Visit Aunt Bonnie's at 4943 on Main Street, Manchester. For more information and to shop online, visit AuntBonnies.com
This wellness guide is brought to you in partnership with the Manchester Business Association, connecting you with the businesses and experiences that make Manchester, Vermont, a premier destination.
This dining adventure is brought to you in partnership with the Manchester Business Association, connecting you with the businesses and experiences that make Manchester, Vermont, a premier adventure destination.
The first thing you notice walking into The Copper Grouse isn't just the warm lighting or the elegant botanical wallpaper - it's how the recently renovated interior strikes that perfect balance between classic sophistication and contemporary comfort. Rich leather banquettes, exposed wooden beams, and thoughtfully curated artwork create a space that feels both timeless and completely current. But step outside onto their expansive patio, and you'll discover where this Manchester restaurant truly comes alive during Vermont's precious summer months.
Nestled within the Kimpton Taconic Hotel, The Copper Grouse has mastered the art of showcasing Vermont's seasonal bounty through both creative cuisine and genuine community partnerships. Their summer menu reads like a love letter to local farms, while their outdoor space provides the perfect stage for enjoying it all.
The current summer menu at Copper Grouse demonstrates what happens when creative culinary vision meets Vermont's peak growing season. Take their Summer Cucumber chilled soup - a refreshing composition of avocado, green apple, and diced cucumber brightened with cucumber vinegar and basil micro greens. It's the kind of dish that captures summer in a bowl, showcasing how local ingredients can be transformed into something unexpectedly elegant.
Their Heirloom Beet Salad combines red beet coulis with arugula, candied walnuts, and grated feta for a plate that's as visually stunning as it is flavorful, while the Tomato Gazpacho elevates the classic with marinated heirloom cherry tomatoes and fresh basil. These aren't just pretty dishes - they represent a thoughtful approach to highlighting Vermont's agricultural diversity.
The creativity extends to unexpected touches like their Chickpea Fries served with sriracha aioli, and the Sourdough Tartine topped with arugula oil, asparagus, and perfectly poached eggs. The Garganelli pasta showcases roasted garlic with basil and parsley coulis, asparagus, and English peas - a dish that feels both refined and comfortingly familiar.
For mains, the Grilled Salmon demonstrates the kitchen's attention to both flavor and presentation, served alongside arugula, asparagus, glazed baby carrots, and finished with saffron butter. Every plate arrives as a small work of art, with vibrant colors and careful plating that reflects the quality of ingredients underneath.
What sets Copper Grouse apart isn't just their commitment to local sourcing - it's how deeply they've woven themselves into Manchester's community fabric. Their bar features exclusively Vermont beers, including Longtail IPA, because as manager Susann Crunden puts it, "Vermont has a really sensational beer culture."
The most intriguing partnership story involves Bhakta Spirits. Since 2022, Copper Grouse has collaborated with Raj Bhakta to create their own Copper Grouse Armagnac line. This isn't just another local product on the shelf - it's featured in a signature specialty cocktail that you can't get anywhere else. "It's something signature, unique to the property that we're really proud of," Crunden notes.
Their local connections extend to partnerships with Clear Brook Farm, Earth Sky Time, and Woodlawn Farmstead, whose seasonal produce drives those creative menu changes throughout the summer. They also work with Village Garage Distillery, creating a spirits program that reads like a Vermont craft beverage tour.
The outdoor space at Copper Grouse feels purpose-built for those perfect Vermont summer evenings. Beyond the dining tables, guests can settle into rocking chairs to gather around the firepit, challenge friends to lawn games, or simply enjoy a cocktail on the expansive lawn. The cheerful yellow lemonade stand tucked among the Adirondack chairs adds a whimsical touch, serving refreshing strawberry-lavender lemonades and blueberry limeades crafted with berries from local Vermont farms.
"We wanted something to activate that space more," explains Nicholas Squire General Manager from the Taconic team. "We have the rocking chairs there to sit and enjoy the view, we have the Adirondack chairs on the lawn, we have the lawn games - so we wanted something to take advantage of the guests that are on property and hanging around."
Here's where Copper Grouse really distinguishes itself: they see their role as promoting all of Manchester, not just their own tables. Staff actively hand out recommendation sheets featuring their favorite coffee shops, bagel spots, hiking trails, and running routes around town.
"We try to promote the town as a whole," Squire explains. This philosophy extends to active partnerships with local attractions - bring your Dorset Theatre playbill for 10% off your meal, or show your Pastime Pinball receipt for special offers.
Their Monday Music Nights solve a uniquely Vermont problem: Mondays can be a bit of a ghost town. "There's not a lot to do on Monday night," Crunden laughs, "but we have live music." Throughout the Summer, these events bring together both locals and visitors, creating the kind of authentic community gathering that makes Manchester special.
The challenge many Manchester restaurants face is serving both visitors seeking a Vermont experience and locals who just want a fantastic meal. Copper Grouse addresses this thoughtfully through their programming. During shoulder seasons, they offer pre-fixed menus (two courses for $35-37, three courses for $45) specifically designed for local diners. Sunday brings half-off wine bottles that pack the brunch crowd.
"You want to showcase Vermont products on the menu, but it's trying to get them at a price point that's attractive..." Squire reflects. It's a balance that requires constant attention, but one they've clearly thought through.
The Copper Grouse operates year-round at 3835 Main Street, Manchester, VT 05254, within the Kimpton Taconic Hotel, but summer is when both the outdoor space and seasonal menu truly shine. Lunch and dinner service take full advantage of the patio, weather permitting (this is Vermont, after all).
While the team dreams of eventually serving grouse on a copper plate - a perfect marriage of their name and local hunting traditions - the current focus remains on creative presentations of fresh, local ingredients that change with Vermont's seasons.
The Copper Grouse proves that the best restaurant experiences happen when creative cuisine meets genuine community connection. Whether you're a first-time Manchester visitor or a local looking for Monday night plans, this is a spot that understands how to make every guest feel like they're part of the Vermont story.
For reservations and current hours, visit coppergrouse.com or call ahead. The restaurant is located within the Kimpton Taconic Hotel at 3835 Main Street, Manchester, VT 05254.
This dining adventure is brought to you in partnership with the Manchester Business Association, connecting you with the businesses and experiences that make Manchester, Vermont, a premier adventure destination.
This culinary adventure is brought to you in partnership with the Manchester Business Association, connecting you with the businesses and experiences that make Manchester, Vermont, a premier adventure destination.
The twice-baked potatoes are perfectly golden, stuffed with Vermont cheddar and scallions. The maple mustard salmon glistens on its bed of sautéed spinach. And the famous Howling Wolf - that aromatic curry creation that's been a customer favorite since her restaurant days - sits ready to reheat in containers sized for busy families who want something extraordinary for dinner tonight.
You might remember Amy Chamberlain from her appearances on Food Network or her award-winning Perfect Wife restaurant that drew crowds to Manchester for over two decades. What you might not know is that she's traded the 90-seat dining room for something more personal: bringing restaurant-quality food directly to Manchester families, event hosts, and anyone who believes dinner should be delicious without the fuss.
After winning Vermont Chef of the Year in 2010 and building The Perfect Wife into a Manchester institution, Amy made a choice that surprised many in the industry. She stepped away from the packed restaurant life to focus on what she loves most - cooking - while giving herself the flexibility to actually enjoy Vermont's summers, catch a music festival, or spend time with her teenage son.
"I can still plan a vacation or go see music," Amy explains. "And the trade-off is that I get to work directly with people on exactly what they want."
That personal approach has created something unique in Manchester: access to professional culinary expertise without the typical barriers. No reservations, no formal dining rooms, no inflated prices that come with restaurant overhead.
Amy's weekly email menu reads like a greatest hits collection from her restaurant days. The schnitzel that customers drove from Albany to try. The beloved maple mustard salmon. The Howling Wolf curry that uses the same sauce she served with those legendary eggplant fries at her food truck.
The system is beautifully simple: Amy sends out a weekly email featuring what she's prepared that week. Customers order online and pick up from her Manchester Valley Road kitchen. Everything comes portioned for one to two people and ready to reheat at home. No meal planning, no grocery runs, no cleanup - just restaurant-quality food when you want it.
The weekly offerings might include her signature three-cheese lasagna, PEI mussels in tomato and garlic broth, or Vermont turkey schnitzel with lemon-sage sauce. Prices reflect the quality of ingredients and expertise without restaurant markup - that twice-baked potato costs $5, the maple mustard salmon is $36 for two generous portions.
Amy's timing couldn't be better for Manchester's evolving demographic. The families moving up from the cities who aren't used to, or wanting to, cook for themselves every night. The retirees who want quality food without the effort. The busy professionals who value good eating but not grocery shopping.
"I really want [...] the families, you know, the people who moved from New York," Amy says. "They're looking for an alternative to spending hundreds on a private chef, but they want quality."
Her partnership with In Motion gym showcases this perfectly. Every Thursday at 10 AM, Amy drops off healthy, nutritionist-approved options in the gym's refrigerators. Recent offerings included salmon burgers with sweet potatoes, chickpea falafel, and her popular chicken salad - all designed for people who take their fitness as seriously as their food quality.
Here's where Amy's restaurant background really shines: her catering operation. While she's stepped back from managing large events (no more 200-person weddings), she's found her sweet spot in intimate gatherings of 8 to 40 people.
"That's my wheelhouse," she says. "Dinners where I can create multi-course plated meals or just make beautiful trays of chicken piccata and beef bourguignon for pickup."
The flexibility is everything. Want Amy to handle the full event with staff for setup, serving, and cleanup? She can do that. Prefer to just pick up professionally prepared food and handle hosting yourself? Perfect. Need something in between? She'll work with you.
Recent clients rave about the stress-free experience. Julia of Pawlet hired Amy for a five-course meal for 30 people and said: "The service felt like dining in a fine restaurant. Amy and her team exceeded our expectations and left our kitchen spotless. I'm already looking for an excuse to hire her again."
For Alicia in Dorset, Amy handled both a black-tie wedding and a garden cocktail party: "Amy is a genius. She delivered incredible food on budget, handled everything with grace and good humor, and made both events absolutely seamless."
Walk into Amy's current kitchen and you'll find the same attention to local sourcing and seasonal ingredients that made The Perfect Wife special. The same commitment to handcrafted food that earned her five Food Network appearances. The same willingness to customize for dietary restrictions or personal preferences that kept customers loyal for decades.
What's different is the intimacy. Instead of managing a 90-seat restaurant, Amy works directly with each client. The couple with strict dietary restrictions gets personalized weekly meal prep billed by the hour. The family hosting an anniversary dinner gets menu planning that considers their guests' preferences and budget.
"I love being creative in the kitchen and making delicious and healthy food with local, seasonal and sustainable ingredients," Amy explains. And now, without the restaurant overhead and staffing challenges, she can focus entirely on that craft.
Ready to try restaurant-quality food without the restaurant hassle? Start by signing up for Amy's weekly email menu at Amy’s On The Road new website or browse her current takeaway offerings. You'll get early access to each week's offerings - and trust us, the popular items do sell out.
Planning an event? Contact Amy at (802) 558-1977 or [email protected] at least 72 hours in advance, or explore her catering and party options. She'll work with you to create a menu that fits your style, guest count, and service preferences.
For private chef services, Amy offers two options: meals prepared in her kitchen for pickup (groceries plus $75/hour) or cooking fresh in your home ($150/hour). Learn more about her private chef services. Either way, you get fully customized meals designed around your tastes and dietary needs.
Whether you remember Amy from her Perfect Wife days or you're just discovering what she brings to Manchester's food scene, one thing is clear: she's made quality cooking more accessible than ever. And in a town where good food matters, that's something worth celebrating.
Amy's on the Road
53B Manchester Valley Road, Manchester Center, Vermont 05255
Weekly prepared meals, catering, and private chef services
(802) 558-1977
This culinary adventure is brought to you in partnership with the Manchester Business Association, connecting you with the businesses and experiences that make Manchester, Vermont, a premier adventure destination.
This pinball adventure is brought to you in partnership with the Manchester Business Association, connecting you with the businesses and experiences that make Manchester, Vermont, a premier adventure destination.
Walk into Pastime Pinball on Main Street and you're immediately face-to-face with something magical: a place where grandparents rediscover their youth, parents become kids again, and children experience something revolutionary: entertainment you can't scroll through.
The journey begins in 1947 with Humpty Dumpty, the pinball machine that changed everything. This wasn't just another game - it was the first to feature fully automatic flippers, transforming pinball from a game of chance (considered gambling and therefore illegal) into a game of skill. That pivotal moment marks the literal birth of modern pinball, and it's where Beth and Marty Friedman launch their chronological adventure through eight decades of American culture.
Pastime Pinball calls itself a museum first, but this isn't your typical rope-off-and-look experience. The 66 machines downstairs aren't just artifacts - they're fully playable time capsules arranged chronologically around the perimeter, creating an interactive timeline where you can literally play through American entertainment history. Detailed signage provides the backstory: production runs, years, technological innovations, and the evolution of art styles that mirror comic book aesthetics of their eras.
"We can follow not just the art and technology, but the representation of women and ethnic groups," Beth explains. "It's very stereotypical in the early years, but you can see how society evolved through the games."
The genius lies in the combination: serious historical curation meets pure, unadulterated fun. You're learning about technological advancement while trying to beat your grandson's high score on Medieval Madness. You're studying artistic evolution while getting completely absorbed in a 1960s space-themed machine.
This historical depth resonates perfectly with Manchester's appreciation for preservation. Just as Hildene showcases Lincoln family history and local historical sites celebrate Vermont's past, Pastime Pinball preserves a uniquely American cultural artifact - one you can actually play.
What Beth and Marty discovered early on transforms their space into something special: true multi-generational engagement where fun trumps everything else. "We get so many three generations," Beth says, "and what's really funny is the grandparents come in and they're nostalgic for the 1950s games. Then their adult children come up and they just turn into zombies playing Pac-Man and all the games they played when they were younger, while the youngest kids are tugging on their shoulders."
For older generations, it's pure nostalgia wrapped in competitive fun. For younger visitors, it's something revolutionary: hands-on entertainment where you can't be on your phone while playing. The physics, angles, and timing required tap into STEM principles - making each game a lesson in applied science disguised as pure entertainment.
In an age when families struggle to disconnect from devices, Pastime Pinball offers something increasingly rare: an environment where digital distraction simply doesn't work, and nobody minds. You need both hands, complete attention, and split-second timing to master these mechanical marvels - and the payoff is immediate, visceral fun.
"The younger generation doesn't even know what they're missing," Beth notes. "High school kids don't know pinball unless they grew up with it." But once they start playing, something clicks. The tactile feedback, the mechanical sounds, the immediate cause-and-effect of flippers and ball create an immersive experience no screen can replicate - and pure joy that spans generations.
The educational component enhances rather than overshadows the entertainment. Each machine represents technological advancement, artistic evolution, and cultural history, but you're discovering these layers while completely absorbed in trying to achieve multiball or unlock the next bonus round. A cocktail table pinball machine sits among the collection - not because it succeeded, but because it represents an "epic failure" that demonstrates how innovation sometimes misses the mark. These teaching moments weave throughout the chronological journey, but the fun always comes first.
Beth and Marty's approach reflects Vermont values: quality over quantity, education over flashiness, community over profit. Every Friday, 25% of snack bar sales supports Manchester's community food cupboard. They provide rack cards to local inns and Airbnbs, helping visitors discover authentic Manchester experiences.
The technical dedication required is staggering. A skilled technician from Dorset works on-site virtually every day the arcade isn't open to the public, maintaining machines that demand engineering and mechanical expertise. "You have to have the skills of an engineer, a mechanical engineer," Beth explains. "They are few and far between."
Finding that technician was so crucial that Beth and Marty collected 45 machines in their New Jersey house before signing their Vermont lease.
Pastime Pinball has perfectly adapted to Manchester's resort town rhythm. Open primarily weekends and holidays when visitors and second homeowners arrive, they've fine-tuned their operation around when families actually want to play together.
The real magic happens in everyday moments: when competitive players practice for hours on single machines, when three generations discover they can share joy across eight decades of games, when families realize they've spent hours together without anyone checking their phone. The combination of historical significance and pure entertainment creates something uniquely Manchester - sophisticated enough for adults, educational enough for curious minds, but fundamentally designed around the simple pleasure of play.
Pastime Pinball proves that the best Manchester experiences often hide behind unassuming exteriors. What might look like a simple arcade reveals itself as a carefully curated journey through American culture, a multi-generational gathering place, and proof that sometimes the most meaningful entertainment requires no wifi connection.
Whether you're seeking a rainy day refuge, a history lesson disguised as fun, or simply a place where your family can rediscover the joy of playing together, this Main Street treasure delivers experiences you can't download.
Reserve time for your chronological journey - these 80 years of pinball history aren't going anywhere, but your afternoon will disappear faster than a silver ball down the drain.
Pastime Pinball
4802 Main Street, Manchester Center, Vermont 05255
Open weekends and holidays (check website for seasonal hours)
Private events and parties available
pastimepinball.com
This pinball adventure is brought to you in partnership with the Manchester Business Association, connecting you with the businesses and experiences that make Manchester, Vermont, a premier adventure destination.
This art and shopping guide is brought to you in partnership with the Manchester Business Association, connecting you with the businesses and experiences that make Manchester, Vermont, a premier adventure destination.
The dark iron ore exterior of Squirrel catches your eye before you even know what you're looking at. The building sits just off Manchester's main drag, its dark facade standing out against the trees like a lighthouse for art lovers. But here's what makes you stop: this isn't another predictable gift shop filled with mass-produced trinkets. Owner Catharine Sullivan has one ironclad rule - if she can find it on Amazon, it doesn't make the cut.
"I honestly search on Amazon now when I find things," Sullivan admits, straightening a piece of original artwork that caught the morning breeze. "If it's there, I don't want it. It's amazing how much ends up there."
The Amazon test wasn't born from marketing strategy - it grew from Sullivan's deep respect for things with genuine provenance. Her background in historic preservation, studying nights at the Boston Architectural College while working downtown, taught her to recognize when something has earned its place in the world.
The building itself proves the point. This late 1800s firehouse was physically moved to its current location, complete with a hose-drying tower that once hung cotton hoses to dry after fires. The tower's cap blew off in a hurricane years ago, leaving it chopped short, but Sullivan dreams of hosting a "capping party" with a crane to restore it to its original glory.
"I'm a bit of a serial renovator," she explains, running her hand along the original wood ceiling of the second floor that she left completely untouched. "I was fascinated by how new buildings talk to old buildings in Boston. When I saw this little firehouse, I knew it needed to go dark and have a different presence."
The Sherwin-Williams Iron Ore paint choice wasn't arbitrary. People ask about that color constantly, drawn to how it stands out while still feeling natural against the trees. Inside, industrial lighting and brick floors honor the building's working past while creating gallery-quality illumination for the art.
Sullivan's curation philosophy goes beyond avoiding Amazon. She sources through buyer shows, artisan fairs, and endless antiquing expeditions, always hunting for pieces that catch her eye in unexpected ways. At one show, she wandered into a tiny showroom that seemed completely outside her usual aesthetic - until she discovered hand-stitched leather pieces with whipstitching and unique detailing that somehow felt perfect for her clientele.
"My belief is there's something awesome in every store, no matter what it is," she says. "I have my own personal filter of things that I like and how I feel things go together."
More than half her featured artists are Vermont or New England based. Kate Longmaidfrom Shelburne captures still life florals with a gentle palette. Ken Russack from Burlington has been painting area locations for years, creating mood and feeling rather than just documentation. George Van Hook, just over the border in Cambridge, New York, with his country roads and fishing scenes embodying quintessential Vermont in ways that feel both timeless and immediate.
Even artists from elsewhere paint Vermont. Eva Cincotta from Massachusetts spends time in Dorset, creating pieces named for specific Vermont locations. Chris Firger making his first foray into a Vermont gallery, brought exclusively Vermont scenes to life with his stunning works.
The "littles" wall upstairs showcases Sullivan's commitment to accessibility. Every piece measures under 12 by 12 inches, creating an entry point for people who lack space or budget for major works. The wall mixes established artists with vintage finds and antique discoveries, all priced to let someone walk out with original art.
"If you don't have room for a 36 by 48 piece, or you can't afford it, you don't want it, you don't need it, you can come in here and leave with something," Sullivan explains. "Good art always finds a home."
An upcoming dog commission service builds on this philosophy. After testing the waters with a painting of Hazel - the gallery's tail-wagging greeter who's never met a visitor she didn't like - Sullivan plans to offer custom pet portraits, because everyone deserves a visual reminder of why their dog is the best.
Sullivan's retail instincts recognize that Manchester serves different audiences throughout the year. Winter brings Stratton skiers looking for mountain art and interior design pieces for their second homes. Summer residents return from Florida seeking hostess gifts and smaller works that travel well.
"I try to think about what each of those different audiences might want," she says, describing how she rotates skiing art for winter guests, then switches to lighter pieces and gift items for summer entertaining.
The approach extends beyond artwork. Hand-assembled journals and book boxes by a local artisan (who prefers to keep his craft as a hobby) provide unique gift options. Textile taxidermy deer heads covered in Pendleton fabrics offer a modern take on Vermont lodge aesthetics. Even the candle selection rotates constantly, ensuring regular customers always discover something new.
Sullivan originally envisioned a pure gallery but evolved into what she calls having "feet on two lily pads." The merchandise responds to customer demand while maintaining the same curation standards as the art.
"It's a small town," she explains. "You serve your clientele with what people want, and I love both, so it works out."
The result feels authentically Manchester - sophisticated enough for serious collectors, accessible enough for curious browsers, and personal enough that word-of-mouth drives much of the business. People come to "smell some pretty," as Sullivan and her friends put it, and discover pieces they didn't know they needed.
Squirrel sits at 345 Center Hill Road, tucked just behind the main commercial strip, but highly worth seeking out. The building's location means you might miss it from the corner, but that's part of its charm - like a hidden treasure waiting to be discovered.
Summer brings planned "Sip and Shop" events, and weather permitting, occasional pop-up tent sales during busy weekends. Follow their Instagram for surprise events and new arrival announcements.
The real draw isn't any single piece - it's Sullivan's eye for combining contemporary and traditional work in ways that feel both curated and effortless. Whether you're starting an art collection or adding to an established one, whether you need a thoughtful gift or want to treat yourself, Squirrel offers something you genuinely can't find anywhere else.
And that's exactly the point.
Squirrel Gallery
345 Center Hill Road Manchester, VT
Website: squirrelmanchester.com
This art and shopping guide is brought to you in partnership with the Manchester Business Association, connecting you with the businesses and experiences that make Manchester, Vermont, a premier adventure destination.
The eight-year-old stares down from the 30-foot climbing wall at FunZone 2.0, her sneakers gripping the colorful holds as her dad cheers from below. "I can't do it!" she calls down. Then something clicks. Maybe it's the encouraging shouts from other families, or the fact that three other kids just conquered the same wall, but she pushes up one more hold, then another. At the top, she rings the bell with a grin that could power the entire resort.
This is the moment Smugglers' Notch Resort banks on. Literally.
As the only resort in North America bold enough to guarantee family fun or refund your money, Smugglers' Notch Resort doesn't just promise memorable Vermont vacations - they stake their reputation on delivering them. After spending time exploring what they call "America's Family Resort," it becomes clear why they're confident enough to put their money where their marketing is.
Walk into any family resort and you'll find pools and playgrounds. What makes Smugglers' Notch different isn't just what they have - it's how thoughtfully they've designed every experience around the reality of family dynamics. Take their signature Family Fun Adventure Package, which doesn't just bundle activities together but creates a progression of experiences that build confidence and connection.
The resort's $4 million investment in FunZone 2.0 tells the story perfectly. This isn't your typical hotel game room with a few dusty arcade machines. We're talking about a 26,000-square-foot indoor entertainment complex where families can spend entire afternoons regardless of Vermont weather. The giant inflatable slide draws squeals from the Ozone level, while the 3,500-square-foot laser tag arena below delivers strategic battles that level the playing field between kids and adults.
The 30-plus arcade games keep everyone entertained, but it's really the Go Zone that demonstrates their commitment to meaningful family experiences. The climbing wall, Smuggs Warrior obstacle courses, and the Leap of Faith platform jump create genuine challenge and achievement moments - the kind that become family legends.
Here's what really captures the Vermont spirit: Smugglers' Notch delivers outdoor adventure without the intimidation factor that keeps some families from embracing mountain life. Their ArborTrek Canopy Tours let kids fly free with paying adults, introducing families to Vermont's forest canopy in a way that builds rather than tests courage. The brand-new 9-hole disc golf course provides another entry point into Vermont's outdoor culture, complete with free rental discs.
The three heated pools and Mountainside Water Playground opened May 23rd, turning the Green Mountains into a summer playground where families can swim with mountain views. It's Vermont leisure at its most approachable - scenic beauty paired with genuine fun rather than forced adventure.
What surprised us most were the evening activities that actually bring families together rather than splitting them apart. When Jammin' Sam hosts the Vermont Country Fair on the Village Green or Rockin' Ron the Friendly Pirate runs family bingo, three generations find themselves genuinely engaged in the same activity. That's harder to orchestrate than it sounds.
The Family Fun Adventure Package starts around $200 per night for a family of four in condo-style accommodations, including access to most activities and 30% off their award-winning children's programs. When you factor in the space of full condos (kitchens, multiple bedrooms, living areas), plus the breadth of included activities, it competes favorably with cramped hotel rooms and à la carte pricing elsewhere.
The guarantee itself reflects something important about Vermont's tourism evolution. While other destinations ask families to take expensive vacation gambles, Smugglers' Notch has built their operation around measurable family satisfaction. They track participation in their programs and know with confidence that families who engage for at least two days consistently report positive experiences.
For Vermont vacation planning, this represents a shift toward accountability that benefits everyone. Families get transparent expectations and genuine recourse if experiences don't deliver. Vermont gets a flagship family destination that elevates standards across the region.
The summer season runs through early September, with prime family weeks booking up by March. Smart timing means reserving directly with their vacation planners who can optimize packages around your family's specific interests - whether that's maximizing water activities, diving deep into children's programming, or balancing active adventures with relaxation time.
Smugglers' Notch has figured out something that eludes many family destinations: confidence comes from delivering consistently rather than promising extravagantly. When you're willing to guarantee the experience, you build operations that actually work for families. That eight-year-old ringing the bell at the top of the climbing wall? She's not just conquering her fear - she's proving that some vacation promises are worth making.
Ready to create your own family memories with Vermont's only guaranteed fun experience? Book your Family Fun Adventure Package directly with Smugglers' Notch and discover why they're confident enough to put their reputation on the line for your family's good time.
This theatrical adventure guide is brought to you in partnership with the Manchester Business Association, connecting you with the businesses and experiences that make Manchester, Vermont, a premier destination.
Step into the Dorset Playhouse on any summer evening and you might find yourself watching a Tony winner perform in a world premiere that could be on a Broadway stage next season. Home to the Dorset Theatre Festival and built from two pre-revolutionary barns in the heart of one of Vermont's most picturesque villages, this 298-seat theater has quietly become one of American theater's most influential launching pads.
"We serve two audiences," explains Will Rucker, the festival's Executive Artistic Director now in his 10th year. "Our local and regional audience supporting Manchester and the surrounding economy, and our artistic audience developing the next generation of American theater." What makes this balance work is something you can't manufacture: the kind of authentic creative environment that draws talent back year after year.
Here's what sets Dorset apart from typical summer stock: plays that debut here don't just entertain - they reshape the national conversation. In 2015, a young playwright named Martyna Majok held a reading of her new work "The Cost of Living" as part of Dorset's development series. Two years later, that same play opened at New York City Center. By 2018, it had won the Pulitzer Prize for Drama.
This isn't an isolated success story. Theresa Rebeck, Dorset's resident playwright since the early 2000s, has seen multiple works transfer from this idyllic Vermont location to Off-Broadway stages. Her 2017 world premiere "Downstairs," starring Tim and Tyne Daly, opened at Primary Stages in New York the following fall. The festival was also among the first to present "Cry It Out" by Molly Smith Metzler, which became one of America's most-produced plays.
"There's an inherent risk in balancing new, sometimes serious plays with the expectations of a summer theater audience," notes Ryan Koss, Managing Creative Director in his 9th year. "But we've found that creating a supportive environment for developing new work makes artists want to return."
That ecosystem approach pays dividends in unexpected ways. Take Dan Butler, best known as Bulldog from "Frasier," who came to perform in a show directed by Jackson Gay. Now Butler regularly sends Rucker plays he's interested in developing. It's this kind of long-term relationship building that keeps the artistic community connected to this remote Vermont location.
The magic isn't just in the work - it's in the experience. "One of my favorite sights in summer is seeing the little parade of theater goers walking from the Dorset Inn when it's getting close to curtain," Rucker says. "It's just a beautiful sight through the village of Dorset."
Many patrons have turned this into a 20-year ritual: dinner in Manchester or Dorset, then the short walk or drive to the theater. The result is an audience that spans from Albany newcomers who stumbled upon the theater to devoted patrons who plan their summers around Dorset's four-show season.
Elizabeth Thornton, in her third year with the festival, sees both sides regularly. "You get people who are like, 'I had no idea what this place was, it just looks cool.' But you also get people who've had their tradition for 20 years of coming from Weston, getting dinner at a place in Manchester they love, then coming here."
Behind the artistic success lies a financial reality that many don't see. The festival operates on what Rucker honestly describes as "a huge operating deficit every year," requiring about 60% of revenue to come from donations. Operating costs have increased by approximately $400,000 annually, with artist housing alone now costing around $250,000 per season.
"The housing landscape changed so drastically from 2020 to 2023," Rucker notes. Where the festival once relied on large second homes that weren't being used, they now depend on expensive vacation rentals. "We're at the mercy of Airbnb and regular vacation rentals, which is obviously not sustainable long-term."
The ironic upside? Artists are generally pleased with their upgraded accommodations, which contributes to the positive culture that keeps talent returning. Still, the festival's continuation remains "very year-to-year," making each season feel both precious and urgent.
The festival's most important fundraising event perfectly captures the spirit that keeps everything going: the Dance Party Ball. "It's a very fun time, and even for someone who doesn't have any connection to the theater, it is what it promises to be - it's a dance party ball," Rucker says with genuine enthusiasm.
This year's August 2nd event features Grammy and Emmy-winning Broadway star Adrianna Hicks, who recently starred as "Sugar" in the Tony-nominated "Some Like It Hot" and originated "Catherine of Aragon" in "SIX." But the real magic happens when theater lovers, Manchester visitors, and Dorset locals come together under a disco ball to support something they believe in.
Previous years have drawn an impressive mix of Broadway talent and theater enthusiasts - everyone from composer Adam Guettel to actors Judd Hirsch and Tea Leoni. With an open bar, live auction, and dance floor that stays packed thanks to DJ Say Hey KP, it's the kind of night that reminds you why community-supported arts matter.
The current season exemplifies Dorset's willingness and skill as taking creative risks. "Salvage," the season opener by Lena Kaminsky, literally features dumpsters on stage - it's set at a transfer station and explores friendship found among other people's discarded treasures. The production team spent weeks collecting bottles and recyclables to create an authentic garbage dump setting.
"We often talk about the first show wanting to be like a Friday night, drive-in sort of thing," Rucker explains. Previous openers like Stephen King's "Misery" and "Wait Until Dark" have fulfilled that promise. But Dorset's programming philosophy goes deeper than just crowd-pleasers - it's about creating a "collection" where each piece serves the whole.
Coming up this season: "The Book Club Play" by Karen Zacarías (July 11-26), directed by Jackson Gay who's become a festival favorite; "Satellites," an intimate new love story by Erin Breznitsky (August 6-16); and closing with Jon Robin Baitz's "Other Desert Cities," a family drama that promises to deliver the kind of big finish Dorset has become known for.
Getting There: The Dorset Playhouse sits at 104 Cheney Road, about 15 minutes north of Manchester via Routes 7A and 30. Free parking is available.
Timing: The lobby opens around 6:30 PM, with most guests arriving by 6:45 PM. The house opens at 7:00 PM for a 7:30 PM curtain. Shows run about 90 minutes with one intermission.
The Experience: Arrive early to enjoy the outdoor space under the awning, where tables are set up for pre-show drinks and snacks. The theater's café offers refreshments, and this year marks their first venture into merchandise sales.
Making It a Night: Follow the local tradition - book dinner at a Manchester restaurant, then make the scenic drive to Dorset. The intimate barn setting means there truly isn't a bad seat in the house.
This Season: "Salvage" runs through July 5, followed by "The Book Club Play" (July 11-26), "Satellites" (August 6-16), and "Other Desert Cities" (dates TBA). The theater is dark Mondays and Tuesdays, with shows Wednesday through Sunday. PURCHASE TICKETS HERE>>
Whether you're drawn by the chance to see tomorrow's Pulitzer winner or simply want to experience world-class theater in an impossibly charming setting, Dorset proves that some of America's most important cultural conversations are happening in the most unexpected places. Just don't be surprised if you find yourself planning your own 20-year tradition.
This theatrical adventure guide is brought to you in partnership with the Manchester Business Association, connecting you with the businesses and experiences that make Manchester, Vermont, a premier destination.
This musical adventure guide is brought to you in partnership with the Manchester Business Association, connecting you with the businesses and experiences that make Manchester, Vermont, a premier destination.
You'll know you're witnessing something special when the violinist catches the cellist's eye mid-phrase, a silent conversation happening in real time. At Taconic Music's summer festival, chamber music reveals its most intimate secret: it's a collaboration so close you can see the musicians breathing together, leaning into shared musical moments, responding to each other's subtle cues.
Four Saturday evenings (from June 21 through July 12 at Riley Center for the Arts) create Manchester's most accessible window into this collaborative art form. Add two Young Artists concerts featuring emerging conservatory talents, plus a special anniversary celebration at a wildlife sanctuary in nearby Shushan, New York, and you have a month-long soundtrack that helps define summer in Manchester.
"Like going to a really good restaurant, you don't need to understand how your meal is cooked," explains Joana Genova, Taconic Music's co-founder. "You will enjoy it because it touches the heart and the soul and emotions in us as human beings."
This philosophy drives everything Taconic Music does. Since establishing the organization in 2016, artistic directors Genova and Ariel Rudiakov have built a festival that welcomes newcomers while challenging seasoned classical music lovers. Their summer programming mixes established repertoire - think Brahms and Mendelssohn - with contemporary works by living composers.
"We seek out modern voices, living composers who deserve to be heard because their points of view are different based on how and when they live," Rudiakov explains. Over the years, they've commissioned over 20 new works, continuing that tradition with current commissions from composers like Sato Matsui.
The Saturday evening concerts at 7:30 PM showcase faculty and guest musicians in Riley Center's intimate setting. Unlike symphony concerts where musicians follow a conductor, chamber music reveals constant communication between players. The first violinist might serve as the informal leader, but roles shift constantly - when the cellist takes the melody, everyone else steps back to support.
"Your ears and your antennas have to be open for the balance within the group," Rudiakov notes. "The music weaves in and out and the roles weave in and out and everybody has to breathe together."
This summer's guest artists include a Celtic harpist, adding new colors to the traditional chamber music palette. Each concert begins with a pre-reception featuring wine and cheese, giving audiences time to mingle before settling in for the evening's performance.
Adults pay $30 for general admission, while students and children attend free - part of Taconic's commitment to accessibility. "We keep our performances low-cost or at no cost," Genova emphasizes, "so we reach different ages and people who can afford to go to concerts and people who cannot."
Monday evenings June 30 and July 14 at 7 PM showcase the festival's Chamber Music Intensive students - nine musicians selected from over 30 applications nationwide. These concerts offer a different energy: emerging artists presenting both classical and contemporary works, with the enthusiasm that comes from spending a month immersed in Vermont's musical and natural landscape.
The Young Artists concerts operate on a free-will offering basis, with a suggested donation of $15 for adults (students and children still free). The format accommodates families perfectly - if bedtime calls or breaks are needed, you're encouraged to slip out whenever necessary.
"What really sets this apart is the supportive, non-competitive environment," Rudiakov explains. The intensive students live together in Burr & Burton dorms, cooking meals together and exploring Vermont between their rigorous daily coaching sessions. Sometimes faculty literally lock them out of practice rooms on beautiful days, insisting they experience kayaking or hiking instead.
"Our motto is where music meets life," Genova says. "You have to experience life to become a good musician."
This summer includes something unique: a benefit concert celebrating the 30th anniversary of Dionondehowa Wildlife Sanctuary and School on Sunday, June 29 at 4 PM in Shushan, New York. Tickets are $15 with proceeds benefiting both organizations - a perfect example of Taconic's community partnerships extending beyond Manchester's borders.
The Riley Center location puts you at the heart of Manchester's cultural district. Stroll through Northshire Bookstore before the concert, grab dinner at Curate afterward, or combine your evening with a day exploring Hildene's grounds - where some of the intensive students perform during their residency.
"The first thing that comes out of our mouth is Northshire Bookstore," Genova says when recommending Manchester experiences. "Then all of the art galleries - Ellenbogen, the Southern Vermont Art Center, Hildene."
Taconic has built strong partnerships throughout Manchester, from business supporters like Manchester Designer Outlet and Mother Myrick's to performance venues and cultural institutions. "We support them, we tell people from the stage about their businesses," Rudiakov notes. "We keep it as local as we possibly can because we all really need each other."
For chamber music newcomers, Taconic removes every barrier they can. No dress code, no rigid concert etiquette, no obligation to stay for the full performance. The intimate setting means you can see the musicians' expressions and feel included in their musical conversation.
All concerts are also livestreamed on Taconic's YouTube channel, allowing remote audiences to connect with the performances - a practice that began during the pandemic and continues because it reaches people who might not otherwise access live classical music.
"Just come, don't be afraid, you will love it," Genova encourages. "Most people are afraid of not understanding it, but they have to feel it. All our faculty concerts and young artist concerts, we select works that we personally love and believe in, and we play our hearts out. That translates to the audience."
What gives this festival its authentic character is the deep investment its founders have made in Manchester. The Rudiakov family has been part of the local music scene since the 1980s, when Ariel's parents purchased a home near the current Riley Center. Joana and Ariel bought their own Manchester home in 2002-2003, renovating and expanding it while building Taconic Music into a year-round cultural anchor.
"We have had so many comments from people who come to us and say, part of the reason why we moved to this town is because our kids can take lessons, or we can come to concerts," Genova shares. "One person even said, you raised the value of my real estate, because you help provide culture and music."
That year-round commitment creates the foundation for a summer festival that feels like a natural extension of Manchester's cultural life rather than an imported event. Whether you're hearing chamber music for the first time or you're a longtime devotee, Taconic's summer festival offers four weeks of evenings where world-class musicians create intimate musical conversations you're invited to overhear.
Taconic Music's Summer Festival runs June 16-July 14, 2025. Chamber Music Saturdays are June 21, 28, July 5 & 12 at 7:30 PM. Young Artists Concerts are June 30 & July 14 at 7 PM. All concerts at Riley Center for the Arts, 143 Seminary Avenue. Tickets and information: taconicmusic.org
This musical adventure guide is brought to you in partnership with the Manchester Business Association, connecting you with the businesses and experiences that make Manchester, Vermont, a premier destination.
This lodging guide is brought to you in partnership with the Manchester Business Association, connecting you with the businesses and experiences that make Manchester, Vermont, a premier adventure destination.
You wouldn't expect a chain hotel to feel like a local secret, but step into the Hampton Inn & Suites Manchester and you'll understand why guests keep writing things like "the support was what you might expect from a family member, not the hotel you happened to be staying in." Under the leadership of Director of Operations Fuad Naser, this 97-room property has cracked the code on something most hotels struggle with: delivering chain-level consistency while maintaining the kind of authentic Vermont hospitality that makes visitors feel genuinely welcomed.
The secret? They've figured out that Vermont charm isn't something you manufacture - it's something you cultivate through the people who deliver it.
That cultivation shows in concrete recognition. The Hampton Inn & Suites Manchester recently earned the prestigious 2024 Connie Award from Hilton, ranking #1 in North America - an achievement that reflects the collective effort of every single employee across all departments. Named after Hilton founder Conrad Hilton, the Connie Award recognizes properties based on exceptional customer loyalty scores, service excellence, and overall quality performance.
Fuad mentions that what makes this recognition particularly meaningful is how it reflects the pride every employee takes in their work here. From housekeeping to front desk, from maintenance to breakfast service, the award represents a unified commitment to hospitality that guests notice immediately and remember long after checkout. It's the kind of consistency that only happens when an entire team genuinely cares about the experience they're creating together.
The first thing that sets this Hampton Inn apart is what you see before you even walk through the door. Designed to resemble a historic New England farmhouse, this uniquely designed hotel embodies tradition with modern sensibilities. Outdoor seating areas with a fire pit and lush landscaping welcome you and make you feel right at home - details that signal this isn't your typical corporate property.
Located on Main Street in downtown Manchester, guests are within walking distance to local shops, retail outlets, farm-to-table restaurants and cafés, seasonal attractions, and historic landmarks. The architectural choice isn't just aesthetic - it's strategic. When your building looks like it belongs in Vermont rather than looking like it could be anywhere, guests immediately understand they're somewhere special and welcoming.
But what really makes the difference is how the team uses that foundation to create experiences that feel distinctly local while maintaining the reliability Hampton Inn guests expect.
Guest reviews consistently highlight staff members by name, with Fuad and team members making such positive impacts that couples are frequently recommending the hotel to their wedding guests. This level of personal attention shows up in the details that matter most to travelers. Front desk staff provide restaurant recs upon check-in, with team members offering local tips and insider knowledge about the area.
These aren’t recommendations by rote or something being pushed uniformly through a memo. The staff who works here lives in the area and are able to provide their genuine tips and inside information that comes from years of calling a place home. The team understands that Vermont hospitality isn't about being overly familiar - it's about being genuinely helpful and paying attention to what guests actually need.
Every Hampton Inn offers complimentary breakfast, but not every Hampton Inn turns breakfast into a daily celebration of their location. Staff members take time to give instructions on making the perfect waffles at the complimentary breakfast - the kind of small gesture that transforms a standard amenity into a memorable moment.
The property also offers Hampton On the Run Breakfast Bags as take-away Monday through Friday, perfect for guests heading out early to explore the many hiking trails nearby, or spend the day at the outlets. It's this kind of thoughtful adaptation to how people actually travel that separates good hospitality from great hospitality.
The hotel offers both traditional guest rooms with microwaves, refrigerators, and coffee makers, as well as spacious suites including a wetbar and comfortable sleeper sofa - accommodations that work whether you're a couple on a romantic getaway or a family exploring the Green Mountains.
The property also features a heated indoor swimming pool, whirlpool, and fitness center, amenities that serve Manchester's year-round appeal. After a day of hiking or shopping, guests gravitate toward those fire pit areas where conversations naturally happen between travelers sharing their Manchester discoveries..
What truly distinguishes this Hampton Inn is how the team connects guests to Manchester's authentic experiences. Close by to Bromley, Stratton, and Magic mountains, and Hildene, the Lincoln Family Home, the staff doesn't just point guests toward the obvious attractions - they share the kind of local knowledge that helps visitors discover what makes Manchester special.
This expertise becomes especially valuable during Manchester's busy summer season, when knowing which restaurant takes reservations, which trails offer the best morning light, or which shops are worth the walk can make the difference between a good trip and an unforgettable one.
Here's what really shows the property's commitment to Manchester's growth: the team isn't just maintaining their current level of excellence - they're preparing for what's next. With Lost Marble Brewing Company opening right next door in Fall 2025, the Hampton Inn is positioned to be part of Manchester's evolving hospitality landscape while staying true to what makes them special now.
The brewery development, led by the same hospitality group that owns the Hampton Inn, signals that this isn't just about adding amenities - it's about creating a hospitality ecosystem that enhances the entire Manchester experience.
Ready to experience Vermont hospitality done right? The Hampton Inn & Suites Manchester sits at 4519 Main Street, perfectly positioned for everything Manchester offers. During peak summer season, advance reservations ensure you won't miss out on staying at a property where the award-winning staff knows the difference between good service and genuine hospitality.
This lodging guide is brought to you in partnership with the Manchester Business Association, connecting you with the businesses and experiences that make Manchester, Vermont, a premier adventure destination.
This adventure guide is brought to you in partnership with the Manchester Business Association, connecting you with the businesses and experiences that make Manchester, Vermont, a premier adventure destination.
You know that feeling when you discover a place that gets it exactly right? That's Southern Vermont Arts Center perched on its 100-acre hilltop in Manchester. While some people might think "art center" means a gallery or exhibit walk-through, SVAC has steadfastly become something more ambitious: a full cultural destination where you can spend an entire afternoon moving between contemporary exhibitions, outdoor sculptures, camps & classes, and summer concerts lineups.
This summer, they're proving that point with a triple-threat lineup that goes way beyond any standard gallery programming.
The centerpiece exhibition, "Into the Abstract," pairs two contemporary artists whose work fits together and complements each other perfectly. Paul Gruhler and Neha Vedpathak both work in contemporary abstraction, and their approaches create a stunning visual conversation across the clean white walls of the Wilson Museum.
What continues to set this show apart are three additional works from the Art Bridges Foundation - national loans that bring museum-quality pieces to Manchester's mountains. You can preview all the works online before visiting, but seeing them in person reveals the scale and texture that digital just can't capture.
"We're bringing in a brand new curator this year," explains Sean Osborne, who's been Marketing Director since January. "Danny Volk comes to us from the Westmoreland Museum in Pennsylvania with a strong background in American regionalist work." That expertise shows in how the exhibition flows between the spaces.
Here's where SVAC goes the extra distance: six free concerts are planned throughout the summer under their new "Sounds Good" festival. We're talking everything from alternative to jazz, culminating with Saints and Liars in late August.
The performances happen on the lawn near the Arkell Pavilion, weather permitting - and if you've been to Manchester in summer, you know those mountain evenings are pretty ideal for outdoor music. The Manchester Music Festival will join for several shows, but this is SVAC's own programming, designed to draw people up the hill for something completely different and unexpected.
Free concerts at an art center? It makes perfect sense once you're there. The 100-acre campus practically demands you stay longer than a a quick visit.
Between exhibitions and concerts, SVAC's outdoor sculpture park connects to local trails, creating natural excuses to wander. The park serves as both art destination and community resource - locals use it for walking and hanging out, while visitors get that bonus layer of discovery that makes a place memorable. Be sure to check out the trails that connect all the way to the Equinox Pond loop for a fantastic hike through the woods.
SVAC's education programming has also become a regional draw. Education Manager Erin Kaufman developed summer camps to fill gaps in the community - theater camps, bookmaking workshops, art-in-nature explorations led by working artists and educators.
"We served over 4,000 students last year through partnerships with BRSU and other schools," Osborne notes. "But we're also trying to position ourselves as a destination for people who want to make learning part of their Vermont experience."
The adult programming shines in this pursuit: single-day workshops running 10 to 2, multi-week courses, and this fall they're launching a week-long foliage artist retreat designed to attract destination learners, not just locals or day-trippers.
Understanding SVAC means knowing how they use their two main buildings. The Wilson Museum handles larger exhibitions, national loans, and juried member shows - it's where "Into the Abstract" lives, along with the museum shop. While Yester House (named for the 1917 estate it once was) focuses on member-based solo shows and group exhibitions.
Right now, Yester House features solo shows where each artist gets their own gallery space throughout the building. It's more intimate, more personal - the kind of setup where you might discover your new favorite regional artist.
This dual approach lets them serve both their 300+ artist members and bring in significant traveling exhibitions. It's an artist community and cultural destination rolled into one.
We’d recommend to allocate two to three hours minimum when heading for a visit. Start with the exhibitions in both buildings, grab lunch (onsite restaurant CurATE is phenomenal), walk the sculpture park trails, and if you're visiting during one of the "Sounds Good" concerts, stay for the music.
The real magic happens when you realize this isn't just about checking "gallery visit" off your Manchester to-do list. It's about discovering a place where contemporary art, outdoor spaces, and live music create something that feels distinctly Vermont - ambitious but unpretentious, rooted but forward-thinking. Truly something special.
Getting There: Southern Vermont Arts Center, 930 SVAC Drive, Manchester. Check their website for current exhibition details and soon to be released concert schedules.
Insider Tip: The fall foliage artist retreat launches this year - if you're planning an October Vermont trip, this could be the perfect way to combine leaf-peeping with hands-on creativity.
This adventure guide is brought to you in partnership with the Manchester Business Association, connecting you with the businesses and experiences that make Manchester, Vermont, a premier adventure destination.
This adventure guide is brought to you in partnership with the Manchester Business Association, connecting you with the businesses and experiences that make Manchester, Vermont, a premier adventure destination.
The barn door swings open and suddenly your three-year-old is face-to-face with Peaches the pig, who's clearly hoping someone brought snacks. Welcome to Sunday mornings at Hildene, where "If You Give a Pig a Pancake" isn't just your child's favorite story - it's the morning's agenda.
Starting June 15th, families can discover what might be Vermont's most enchanting children's program, where classic picture books meet real farm animals in an experience that turns reading into adventure. Every Sunday from 11 AM to noon through July 27th, kids become part of the story as professional farmers bring tales to life with the animals who inspired them.
Here's what will make Storytime on the Farm special: after reading stories like "If You Give a Pig a Pancake," your kids will actually get to feed (something other than pancakes!) to Peaches, Hildene's charming pig who's known for her sassy flair. When the story features sheep, everyone will head over to meet the flock. Reading about cows? Time to visit the rare Randall cattle, a breed so uncommon that there are currently fewer than 1,000.
The program takes place in Hildene's "Dene," the working farm portion of the estate that many visitors never discover. Kim Pinsonneault, who manages the farm animals, transformed a gorgeous area of the farm into the magical setting where each session begins. "We wanted something that felt like stepping into a storybook itself," she explains, gesturing toward the hay bale seating and arched entryway.
What really sets this apart is the flexibility. Rain doesn't cancel anything - the team simply moves under covered areas or into the greenhouse. "We're pretty flexible," Kim notes. "If it's not out here, we'll do something where we're under [the barn] awnings, or we just open [the greenhouse]."
Getting to story time becomes part of the adventure. Families check in at Hildene's Welcome Center, then choose their own journeyway: walk the scenic Maple Trail (it's all downhill to the farm) or catch the tram that winds through pastures and past the restored 1800s schoolhouse. Kids consistently rank the tram ride as a highlight - there's something magical about riding through working farmland and sugar maple forests to reach your destination.
The timing will work perfectly for families. After the hour-long program, picnic tables behind the greenhouse will invite you to extend the morning with lunch you've brought from home. Parents can pack sandwiches and let kids decompress (ie, run around and have a great time) from all the excitement while taking in views that stretch across the property.
Between stories, children discover how a real farm operates. They might watch chickens and ducks who've been trained to parade into their solar-powered coops as evening approaches, or meet the four new donkeys who serve as emotional support animals for the other livestock. There are goats, and alpacas, and guinea hens whose loud calls seem to alert everyone to the story hour start.
The educational component runs deeper than just entertainment. Kids learn about rotational grazing, see composting systems that turn event food scraps into garden nutrients, and discover how everything on the farm serves multiple purposes. Even the newest arrivals - baby goats born this spring - become teaching moments about animal care and farm cycles.
Story time is free with regular Hildene admission ($25 for adults, youth 6-16 $8, children under 6 free) and completely free for members. No reservations required, but arrive at the Welcome Center at least 30 minutes early to get your stickers and ensure you reach the farm on time - whether by tram or on foot.
The program welcomes all ages, though it's designed with young children in mind. "We don't want to exclude anybody," Kim says. "Who doesn't want to bebop through here?"
This isn't just about one morning's entertainment. Hildene's farm operates year-round with seasonal programming that gives families reasons to return. Summer brings "Meet the Kids" days featuring baby goats, while fall offers harvest festivals with pumpkin picking and apple pie contests. Winter visitors can explore the greenhouse filled with fresh greens and herbs growing despite Vermont's snow.
The farm experience extends well beyond story time. Hildene produces its own honey (sold in the museum store), taps maple trees for syrup, and grows vegetables that feed both farm animals and local community programs. The rare Randall cattle represent a conservation success story - the breed originated on a farm just miles from Hildene and nearly disappeared before dedicated breeders brought it back from the brink.
For families seeking authentic Vermont experiences that don't feel manufactured, Hildene delivers something increasingly rare: a place where children can touch, smell, and interact with the real thing while learning stories that stick. It's education disguised as pure fun, which might be the best kind of learning there is.
Story time at Hildene runs Sundays, 11 AM-12 PM, June 15 through July 27. Rain or shine. For questions, contact Stephanie at (802) 367-7960. Plan to arrive at the Welcome Center by 10:30 AM to ensure you don't miss the magic.
This adventure guide is brought to you in partnership with the Manchester Business Association, connecting you with the businesses and experiences that make Manchester, Vermont, a premier adventure destination.
This lodging guide is brought to you in partnership with the Manchester Business Association, connecting you with the businesses and experiences that make Manchester, Vermont, a premier destination.
The first thing you can’t help to notice are the mountain views - Southern Vermont's rolling peaks stretched across the dining room windows like a living postcard that changes with every shift of light. Then comes the warmth beneath your bare feet as you pad across radiant-heated floors toward your morning coffee. This is life at the Vermontvacation-rentals.com Sanctuary Houses, where the line between vacation and living well gets delightfully blurred.
View Matterport Tours of each property here: Sanctuary I and Sanctuary II.
Andy Tarantino has created something special in Manchester Center with his two Sanctuary properties. These aren't just places to crash between activities; they're homes designed for the way people actually want to live, with thoughtful details that make daily life a pleasure, and with views that never stop impressing you.
The moment you step through the mudroom, you sense something different. This is functional luxury - spaces designed by someone who understands how families and friends actually use a home. The kitchen features wide angles and accessible design that doesn't sacrifice style, with the microwave positioned low and controls placed where everyone can reach them.
"I designed these houses using Chief Architect software," Andy explains, his pride evident as he points out the custom lighting boxes built into the SIP panel ceilings and the microlam beam wrapped in Douglas fir for visual appeal. "I believe in self-taught skills and practical experience. These homes need to work beautifully for everyone."
That philosophy shows everywhere you look. The master bath features a zero-threshold tile shower and roll-under sink - accessibility done so elegantly, you can’t help but notice the thoughtful engineering. Wide doorways and carefully planned sight lines make the four-bedroom, four-and-a-half-bath homes feel spacious and connected.
What really sets these properties apart are the mountain views that serve as your daily backdrop. From the dining room windows, you can watch sunrise illuminate the ridgelines. The deck access from the master bedroom means your first coffee of the day comes with a panoramic view of Southern Vermont's rolling peaks.
"The views are what people remember," Andy notes. "You can see the mountain ranges from multiple rooms, and each time of day brings something different. Sunset from the deck, sunrise from the dining room - it never gets old."
The homes themselves were built in 2015 using insulated concrete forms and SIP panels, creating structures that stay comfortable year-round. Radiant heat in the cement floors keeps everything warm underfoot, while the tight construction includes an air exchange system that maintains perfect humidity and air quality.
What you won't find here is the corporate vacation rental experience. Andy personally manages both properties and takes genuine pride in creating memorable stays for his guests. His approach is refreshingly personal - he knows the area inside and out and genuinely enjoys helping visitors discover Manchester beyond the obvious attractions.
This personal touch extends to every detail. Andy's meticulous housekeeper ensures each arrival feels like you're the first person to stay, while his local knowledge opens doors to experiences you might not find on your own.
The Sanctuary Houses work especially well for longer visits and larger groups. With four bedrooms each featuring king-size beds and en-suite bathrooms, these properties excel at hosting multi-generational families and multi-couple groups who want privacy without sacrifice. The thoughtful layout means grandparents have their accessible master suite while adult children enjoy equally luxurious accommodations throughout the house.
Both properties include full kitchens designed for real cooking, and spaces where groups can spread out comfortably. The lower level "kids room" features its own bathroom with a tub, while gas fireplaces and outdoor wood-burning options create cozy gathering spots for the whole group.
Andy books directly through his website at vermontvacation-rentals.com, maintaining personal relationships with guests rather than relying on third-party platforms. The properties accommodate various stay lengths, with weekly options that let you truly settle into the Vermont lifestyle.
Both Sanctuary Houses sit in prime Manchester Center locations, just a two-minute drive to downtown attractions with plenty of parking for multiple families' cars, positioned perfectly to maximize those mountain views. The combination of luxury amenities, thoughtful design, and Andy's personal attention creates something rare: vacation rentals that actually feel like an upgrade from home.
When you're sipping that morning coffee, watching the light change across the mountain ranges, you'll understand why guests return year after year. This isn't just accommodation - it's a better way to experience Vermont, one sunrise at a time.
View Matterport Tours of each property here: Sanctuary I and Sanctuary II.
This lodging guide is brought to you in partnership with the Manchester Business Association, connecting you with the businesses and experiences that make Manchester, Vermont, a premier destination.
The gondola operators at Stratton Mountain Resort have seen it all - three generations of the same family riding to the summit together, marriage proposals at the fire tower, and countless parents teaching their kids to read the mountain weather from 3,936 feet up. But this Father's Day weekend, something special is happening in the valley below: it's an itinerary packed to the brim with events and happenings sure to pique Dad's interest, as well as the rest of the crew.
This is Father's Day weekend at Stratton Mountain Resort, where three days of perfectly curated events turn a simple mountain getaway into the kind of weekend that becomes a family tradition. Whether your dad's the type who wants to tackle the uphill mountain bike race or prefers savoring local brews at the pig roast, Stratton's June 13-15 lineup delivers something for every kind of father - and every kind of family.
Here's how to make the most of every moment, from sunrise yoga on the summit to the final set of Saturday's concert under the stars.
Skip the usual traffic-induced arrival stress and head straight for the gondola when it opens at 10 AM. The Scenic Lift Ride to Stratton's 3,936-foot summit isn't just transportation - it's your weekend's opening statement. Take the short hike to the historic fire tower for those legendary four-state views, snap the obligatory photo with the summit bear, and let the mountain work its magic.
Tee Time Strategy
Here's what locals know: Friday afternoon golf at Stratton Golf Course hits differently. The 27-hole championship layout offers rotating 18 and 9-hole combinations, and with daily tee times from 8 AM to 6 PM, you can easily fit in a round before dinner. The Mountain, Lake, and Forest courses each offer distinct challenges - ask the pro shop which combination suits your dad's game.
Evening Logistics
Benedicts opens at 9 AM Friday for breakfast, but the Green Apron at the golf course runs until 6 PM if you want to extend that post-round conversation. Pro tip: Use Friday evening to scope out Saturday's farmers market location in the Stratton Courtyard - you'll want to know exactly where to find those local crafts and artisanal foods.
Morning: Choose Your Adventure
Saturday morning splits into two perfect paths. Adrenaline seekers should register for the Berm and Burn Uphill Mountain Bike Race by 8:30 AM - six hours to rack up as many laps as possible on Stratton's challenging terrain. This isn't your typical father-son bike ride; competitors push hard, and the mountain pushes back.
For a more zen approach, the 11 AM Mountain Top Yoga session takes place on Stratton's unique wooden yoga deck at the summit. The 90-minute class combines expert instruction with views that stretch across the mountain ranges. Take the gondola up, center yourself at the summit, then float back down renewed.
Afternoon: Village Life
The Stratton Courtyard transforms Saturday afternoon into Vermont summer magic. The Farmers Market runs 3-6 PM, featuring local crafts, art, and foods that capture the region's artisanal spirit. You know what we love? The timing works perfectly - browse the market, then transition seamlessly into the pig roast at 4 PM.
The Pig Roast Experience
Here's the thing about Stratton's luau-themed pig roast: it's not trying to be Hawaii, and that's exactly why it works. The mountain setting, the local crowd mixing with visitors, the smell of slow-roasted pork filling the courtyard - it's distinctly Vermont with just enough tropical flair to keep things playful. Runs 4-7 PM, setting up perfectly for the evening's main attraction.
Tower of Power: The Headliner
Since 1970, Tower of Power has been creating music that defies easy categorization - soul, funk, jazz, and rock blended into something entirely their own. The outdoor stage fires up at 6 PM (doors at 5:30), and here's what veteran concertgoers know: arrive early to claim your spot, because when Tower of Power hits their groove, the entire courtyard becomes one massive dance floor. Get tickets here.
Father's Day Proper
Sunday scales back the intensity but maintains the magic. The climbing wall returns (10 AM-4:30 PM), Mountain Top Yoga offers another session (11 AM-12:30 PM), and the village shops extend their Father's Day specials through the weekend.
Shopping Strategy
The retail deals deserve attention: The Dashing Bear offers 30-60% off select merchandise, plus new Goldbergh Luxury Sports pieces. Stratton Sports goes up to 50% off, while the bike shop hits 40-60% off select gear. New arrivals from Kuhl, Howler Brothers, and Prana mean you're not just shopping sale items - you're discovering what's next.
The Long Weekend Package
Stratton's offering something smart: book Friday and Saturday nights, get Thursday or Sunday free. This transforms a Father's Day weekend into a proper mountain retreat without breaking the budget.
Dining Rhythms
Benedicts handles breakfast duty (earlier hours on weekends), while the Green Apron covers lunch and dinner. Both locations understand mountain timing - hearty portions, efficient service, and menus designed for active days.
What really sets this apart is Stratton's position in the larger Manchester Vermont summer experience. You're 20 minutes from Manchester's designer outlets, historic inns, and restaurant scene. This weekend works as a mountain retreat or as the active component of a broader southern Vermont exploration.
Father's Day weekend at Stratton isn't just about the events - though Tower of Power alone makes it worth the trip. It's about that specific combination of mountain adventure and family time that only happens when everything aligns perfectly. The gondola rides, the yoga sessions, the pig roast conversations, the concert under the stars - these moments stack up into something larger than their individual parts.
Reserve your spot now, because some weekends are too good to leave to chance.
This shopping adventure guide is brought to you in partnership with the Manchester Business Association, connecting you with the businesses and experiences that make Manchester, Vermont, a premier destination.
Walk into Coco Goose on Depot Street and you'll immediately understand why locals have been spreading the word about this place for years. Natural light pours through dramatic arched windows, illuminating cream-toned walls and polished cement floors that give the space an effortless sophistication. But here's what really sets this apart: the famous denim wall that stretches floor to ceiling, perfectly organized by cut and style, with stylists standing by who can tell at a glance whether you're a mid-rise or high-waist person.
This isn't just another boutique that happened to land in Manchester Vermont. Coco Goose opened here because customers from the area advocated for it, helping owner Mary Lou Baraw find the perfect space and make the right connections. What started as "Green Envy" over 15 years ago has grown into a four-location operation, with the Manchester store serving as their largest and most comprehensive location. Here's what you need to know about the full-service fashion destination that locals know Manchester was missing.
You know what we love most about Coco Goose? They understand that great style starts with the perfect foundation - and that foundation is usually a pair of jeans that fits like it was made for you. Their denim selection spans an entire wall, featuring the best cuts from Citizens of Humanity, Mother, L'Agence, Closed, Agolde, Frame, and AMO.
The L'Agence Scottie jean has become such a Manchester customer favorite that stylists keep it fully stocked year-round. "We believe denim is a foundation to the modern wardrobe and we offer one of the best selections of brands and cuts anywhere," explains Liz Atkins, a virtual stylist now but has been a stylist with the company for 14 years. The Nili Lotan Shon pant is another consistent bestseller - not technically denim, but the kind of elevated essential that forms the backbone of a versatile wardrobe.
What really makes the difference here is the styling expertise. Whether you're a college student looking for your first pair of premium jeans or someone who's been searching for the perfect replacement for a beloved pair that finally wore out, the team takes genuine pride in walking you through the process of finding exactly what works for your body and lifestyle.
The magic extends far beyond the denim wall. Coco Goose carries 150 carefully curated brands, from closet staples like Frank & Eileen's classic button-ups to statement pieces from Ulla Johnson and Veronica Beard. The curation focuses on elevated essentials that work for Manchester's active, accomplished lifestyle - pieces you'll reach for whether you're heading to a work meeting, a summer wedding, or just want to look pulled-together for dinner at The Copper Grouse.
For summer 2025, the team is excited about breezy trousers, wear-anywhere dresses, and those perfect tees that somehow look casual yet ultra-chic. Veronica Beard's dickey jackets remain a go-to for versatile layering, while Ulla Johnson's bohemian dresses with gorgeous prints capture that effortless summer vibe. The younger crowd gravitates toward Aviator Nation sweatsets, while Tom Ford sunglasses provide that finishing touch of luxury for any occasion.
"We like to keep it simple," says Jaki, regional manager of Coco Goose. "Think a great-fitting pair of jeans, a good tee, exceptional accessories, and pieces that take you from day to night without overthinking it."
Here's the thing about Coco Goose: they've created an entirely full-service shopping experience that caters to everyone from hip college students to stylish grandmothers. The spacious dressing rooms with warm lighting actually make you look good (revolutionary concept, right?), and the complimentary personal styling means you never have to guess whether something works.
Long-time Coco Goose stylists bring expertise that goes beyond just picking out clothes - they help you build a wardrobe that actually works for your real life. Both virtual and in-person styling sessions are available, making it easy to get professional guidance whether you're shopping in the store or from home.
The community aspect is genuine here. During horse show season, familiar faces return each summer, creating an atmosphere that feels more like shopping with a well-connected friend than a typical retail transaction. "It's been quite special to be a part of the Manchester community," the team notes. "We've heard again and again how Manchester needed more good shops for women."
Manchester's summer calendar shapes the Coco Goose experience in the best way. The horse show brings an influx of style-conscious visitors who know quality when they see it, while the 4th of July and Labor Day sales have become anticipated events for both locals and seasonal residents.
The MDO sidewalk sale in early August offers a chance to score elevated pieces at better prices - the kind of insider knowledge that makes you feel like you're in on something special. But even beyond the sales, summer is when the store really shines, with that natural light showcasing the carefully curated collection and the relaxed pace allowing for proper styling consultations.
Best times to visit: Weekday mornings for the most personalized attention, or during special events for the social energy and best selection of seasonal pieces.
What to ask for: The L'Agence Scottie jean if you want to understand the denim obsession, or book a virtual styling session with Liz ([email protected]) or Jo-Anne ([email protected]) for a complete wardrobe consultation. For in-person styling in Manchester, Jennifer Leyton is a gem!
Insider tip: Bring family - seriously. The multi-generational shopping experience here is unmatched. Mothers, daughters, sisters, and friends regularly shop together, each finding pieces that work for their individual style and age.
Located at 103 Depot Street, Coco Goose is open Monday through Saturday 10 AM to 6 PM, and Sundays 10 AM to 5 PM. Free shipping on orders over $150 for any online orders, and that complimentary styling consultation is always available, whether you're shopping in person or online.
The best part? You can easily connect your Coco Goose visit with other Manchester experiences - grab lunch nearby, explore the local bookstore, or plan it around one of the town's seasonal events. Because in Manchester, Vermont, good style and good living tend to go hand in hand.
This shopping adventure guide is brought to you in partnership with the Manchester Business Association, connecting you with the businesses and experiences that make Manchester, Vermont, a premier destination.
This culinary adventure guide is brought to you in partnership with the Manchester Business Association, connecting you with the businesses and experiences that make Manchester, Vermont a premier destination.
Let’s start with the bottom line: Manchester serves up picture-perfect dishes that taste as good as they look, from art gallery dining to wood-fired bread that's basically edible poetry.
When you're scrolling through your feed later, you want meals that make people stop and say "Wait, where is that?" Manchester delivers exactly that - restaurants where the lighting hits just right, the plating makes you pause, and every bite lives up to the hype. Here's where the magic happens.
Located at the Southern Vermont Arts Center, CurATE offers artfully curated small plates, salads, artisanal sandwiches, flatbreads, and dinner options within SVAC's beautiful galleries and grounds. The periwinkle dining room with massive windows overlooking the Green Mountains creates that effortless elegance you can't fake. Pure Instagram gold.
Pro tip: The outdoor patio offers mountain views, perfect for those golden hour shots with your perfectly plated meal. Also, don’t sleep on the cocktails - they’re superb.
This beloved Manchester institution brings you back to neighborhood markets of days gone by, with cases filled with authentic, made-from-scratch Italian delicacies. The Al Ducci's visual feast starts before you even order - the legendary house-made mozz, fresh pasta specials, and house-made sweet and hot sausages accompanied by colorful roasted peppers.
The meat lasagna has been a cornerstone of the menu for 31 years, and when you see those layers photographed against the rustic deli backdrop, you'll understand why.
What really sets this apart: The magic of this place is that they haven't really changed a thing, creating that authentic Italian market aesthetic that's impossible to replicate.
Chef Ed St.Onge's Raven's Den Steakhouse features Black Angus Western aged choice beef, fresh seafood, and everything made from scratch, with a stone fireplace creating the perfect "Den" atmosphere. The patio offers great views of the Green Mountains, but the real Instagram moment happens inside.
Raven's Nachos come loaded with jack cheese, jalapeños, chicken, seasoned black beans, and roasted corn - they make their own chips.
Here's the thing: The steaks here are next-level prime. Make sure to bring your appetite.
A Southern Kitchen in the Green Mountains featuring Southern Home Cooking, House Smoked Barbecue, artisan cocktails, and craft brews. Pearl's Place and Pantry's cozy indoor dining and al fresco dining with firepit sets the scene, but the food steals the show. Indulge in classics like fried chicken and waffles, shrimp and grits, and collard greens, each bursting with authentic Southern taste.
You know what we love? Weekday specials include Monday Fried Chicken Platters, Tuesday Southern Comfort Food, and Wednesday Bourbon & Barbecue Pairings. Each night offers its own photogenic possibilities.
After 23 years running The Perfect Wife Restaurant, Chef Amy Chamberlain transformed her culinary expertise into something completely different - Amy's on the Road: prepared meals that bring restaurant-quality presentation straight to your table. Her kitchen at 53B Manchester Valley Road creates Instagram-worthy dishes you can pick up and serve at home.
Picture this: Lobster Macaroni and Cheese made with campanelle pasta, Cabot cheddar, and Maine lobster that photographs like a magazine cover. The Pan Roasted Hanger Steak arrives with garlic balsamic glaze and butternut squash with leeks - plated perfection that just needs reheating. Her Creole Jambalaya with real Cajun sausage, shrimp, and blackened chicken creates those vibrant, colorful shots that scream "I know good food."
For your next celebration: If you're planning a dinner or party that's not only delicious but show-stopping and beautiful, Amy's is your answer. Her prepared meals let you host like a chef without the stress, creating those "How did you make this?" moments that make the best content.
TripAdvisor crowned The Silver Fork the best spot in the country for date night, and one look at their location inside the old Mark Skinner Library tells you why. The stunning and intimate atmosphere inside the Mark Skinner Library creates lighting that makes everything look magical.
Chef Mark French creates an International menu called "a Menu in Movement" that changes according to his inspiration and what's great that season.
What makes this special: It's romantic at night when it's all lit up and the candles are on the table. Every dish arrives looking like it belongs in a food magazine.
Counter service, quick, chefy eats in a hip corner nook right in the center of downtown Manchester. Roadrunner features fried chicken, sandwiches, salads, hand cut fries and more, this spot nails that effortless cool factor. The burger with runny egg on top along with their handcut fries creates that perfect messy-but-gorgeous shot.
These donuts are hand-made daily in the kitchen. They serve donuts, bagels, pastries, and breakfast sandwiches in a space that feels authentically Vermont. Not to mention the plethora of donut choices is the absolute best.
Come to Willoughby's and see the Southern Vermont mural and stay for the donuts and good people. Those old-fashioned donuts create the kind of cozy, sweet content that never fails to charm.
A certified organic three generation family farmstead and wood fired bakery, Earth Sky Time delivers farm-to-table aesthetics that feel completely authentic. Fresh produce, breads and pastries, and wholesome bulk goods create those abundant, earthy shots that showcase Vermont's agricultural heart.
But the real magic happens: During their Farm Nights at the Wilburton Inn every Wednesday night during summers, where the combination of organic produce and picturesque farm setting creates content gold.
Timing matters: CurATE is located within SVAC's beautiful galleries, so plan to explore the art before or after your meal for varied backdrop options.
Ask about specials: Many of these spots change their offerings seasonally or daily, giving you fresh content opportunities with each visit.
Combine experiences: Earth Sky Time supplies bread to many local restaurants including The Silver Fork and Amy's on the Road, creating connections between your food photos and the local farm community.
Manchester's dining scene delivers that perfect blend of authentic Vermont character and seriously photogenic presentation. These aren't just pretty plates - they're experiences that taste as extraordinary as they look, giving you content that captures the real spirit of this mountain town.
This culinary adventure guide is brought to you in partnership with the Manchester Business Association, connecting you with the businesses and experiences that make Manchester, Vermont a premier destination.
This lodging guide is brought to you in partnership with the Manchester Business Association, connecting you with the businesses and experiences that make Manchester, Vermont a premier destination.
Here's the thing about choosing where to stay in Manchester: it's all about finding the experience that feels right for you. Some travelers are drawn to that perfect intersection of history and hospitality. Others want every modern convenience wrapped in mountain views. And then there are those who just want to feel completely at home, like they're staying at their most stylish friend's place.
The beauty of Manchester is that it gets all of you. Whether you're the type who appreciates historic stories embedded in century-old walls or you're all about sleek efficiency with a Vermont twist, there's a lodging style here that speaks your language. We've matched Manchester's best stays to the personalities they serve best - because the right room can make your whole trip all the more perfect.
You know who you are: You read historical markers. You choose restaurants in buildings with backstories. You believe that staying somewhere with genuine heritage makes everything more meaningful.
Your Manchester match: The Dorset Inn, where, since 1796 travelers have tethered their horses at the front door before passing an evening by the fireplace - or in more recent times parked their horsepower. This isn't just historic charm for show - the Green Mountain Boys planned their exploits against the British right on the Dorset Green in 1775, and guests still gather in rooms where travelers have been welcomed for over 225 years.
The Equinox Golf Resort & Spa brings a different scale of history - welcoming guests since 1769 and hosting four U.S. presidents including Theodore Roosevelt, Ulysses S. Grant, William Howard Taft, and Benjamin Harrison. With over two centuries of stories embedded in its walls, The Equinox has served as everything from Marsh Tavern to various inns before becoming the grand resort that has helped shaped Manchester's identity.
What really sets this apart: At The Dorset Inn, you feel history in the marble steps quarried from nearby Dorset, the wide pine board floors, and the restored tavern where for the first 100 years, chefs relied on the inn's backyard chickens, cows, and vegetable garden for every meal. Inn proprietor Amy Ann Lapham's 1918 expansion - raising the roof over the ballroom to add guest rooms - still houses visitors today. The Equinox reveals secrets like hidden passageways discovered during renovations, connecting rooms across different parts of the building.
You are: The traveler who wants Vermont charm without sacrificing the conveniences that make a stay seamless. You appreciate thoughtful design, sophisticated finishes, and that perfect balance between local character and contemporary comfort.
Your Manchester match: Kimpton Taconic Hotel brings boutique sophistication to Manchester Village with a "free-spirited take on a New England escape that's both classic and highly curated". Inspired by Vermont's grand inns but executed with modern hospitality precision, The Taconic greets guests with luxurious Frette linens, plush bathrobes, and curated local artwork - plus thoughtful touches like complimentary bike rentals for exploring the surrounding areas.
Hampton Inn & Suites Manchester delivers reliable modern comfort with Vermont farmhouse aesthetics - designed to resemble a historic New England farmhouse but with contemporary sensibilities and all the amenities business and leisure travelers expect. Located right on Main Street in downtown Manchester, you're within easy walking distance of local shops and farm-to-table restaurants.
What makes the difference: These properties understand that "charming" doesn't have to mean "inconvenient." The Taconic's Copper Grouse restaurant exemplifies this - regional New England cuisine executed with precision, local craft spirits, but also the kind of service that anticipates your needs. Hampton Inn & Suites offers that perfect blend of traditional architecture with modern functionality - spacious rooms, outdoor seating areas with fire pits, and a complimentary hot breakfast to fuel your Manchester adventures.
This is you: You want more than a room - you want a base camp. Whether you're traveling with family, friends, or planning an extended stay, you need space to cook, gather, and live like locals do.
Your perfect fit: VermontVacation-Rentals.com offers meticulously curated luxury homes with fully equipped kitchens, spacious living areas, and private outdoor spaces. These aren't just rental properties - they're homes designed exclusively for vacation rentals, with uncluttered spaces and everything from ice cream scoops to high-speed internet.
What sets this experience apart: Picture this - your whole group under one roof instead of throughout multiple rooms. Multi-generational families can give grandparents the master suite while kids claim the bunk room. Girls' weekends become more intimate with shared morning coffee in pajamas and late-night conversations around the kitchen island. Multi-couple trips mean everyone gets their privacy but you can all cook dinner together, play games in the living room, and actually spend time together instead of just meeting up for meals.
You're the traveler who: Wants to stay somewhere that could only exist in Manchester. You're drawn to family-run places with personality, where the owners aren't just hoteliers but locals who genuinely love sharing their corner of Vermont.
Your people are at: The Barnstead Inn, where the owners have created a unique boutique experience for "outgoing and social travelers". This isn't just accommodation - it's 23 beautiful rooms and suites tucked into restored 1830s New England buildings, plus three new patios with fire pits where guests naturally gravitate for evening conversations.
The Inn at Manchester delivers that quintessential Vermont bed & breakfast experience on immaculately maintained acreage, where pleasures are genuinely simple - rocking chairs on the classic front porch, fireplaces perfect for book reading, and a secluded pool for afternoon swims.
For the traveler who wants: Everything in one place. You're here for mountain activities, resort amenities, and that feeling of being completely immersed in Vermont's outdoor culture.
Your basecamp: Stratton Mountain Resort sits at 3,875 feet offering breathtaking Green Mountain views and a full slate of summer adventures. From Stratton's 10+ mile downhill Bike Park to scenic gondola rides ascending to the summit, this is mountain living at its finest. Take a UTV Mountain Tour through rugged terrain, strike a pose during Mountain Top Yoga at the summit deck, or serve it up on the tennis and pickleball courts.
What makes this different: Stratton transforms into a summer playground with events that capture Vermont's spirit. Kick off Memorial Day Weekend with the Stratton Doggie and Me 5K (yes, you can run with your pup), celebrate Fourth of July with "Mountain Friends and Freedom" featuring family-friendly activities, live music, and fireworks over the mountains. The summer music series brings tribute bands like Badfish (honoring Sublime) and Red Not Chili Peppers to outdoor stages with mountain backdrops.
The resort's dining scene keeps pace with the energy - from Fire Tower Restaurant & Tavern with its rustic Vermont comfort fare to Village Pie's authentic Italian pizzas made with fresh local ingredients. Green Door Pub offers that authentic après-adventure atmosphere with pool tables, foosball, and locally-made craft beer selections.
The Manchester advantage: Every lodging style here puts you within walking distance of local shops, farm-to-table restaurants, and seasonal attractions, while keeping you close to outdoor adventures at Bromley, Stratton, and Magic mountains, plus historic landmarks like Hildene, the Lincoln Family Home.
What you'll discover is that your lodging choice shapes your entire Manchester experience. Stay at a historic inn, and you'll find yourself lingering over breakfast, swapping stories with other guests, taking evening walks to appreciate architecture. Choose a vacation rental, and you'll start shopping at local farmers markets, cooking with Vermont ingredients, living like a temporary local. Pick a boutique hotel, and you'll discover that perfectly curated cocktail hour where fellow travelers become instant friends.
The right stay doesn't just give you a place to sleep - it gives you the Manchester experience that matches exactly who you are as a traveler.
This lodging guide is brought to you in partnership with the Manchester Business Association, connecting you with the businesses and experiences that make Manchester Vermont's premier destination.
This outdoor adventure guide is brought to you in partnership with the Manchester Business Association, connecting you with the businesses and experiences that make Manchester, Vermont a premier outdoor destination.
Picture this: You're standing at the base of Mount Equinox at 6 AM, morning mist rolling through the valleys while you lace up your hiking boots. The Green Mountains stretch endlessly before you, and you've got an entire day of adventure ahead. This is Manchester, Vermont - where the mountains aren't just a backdrop, they're your playground.
Manchester has quietly become the ultimate base camp for outdoor enthusiasts, and it's not hard to see why. Nestled between the Green Mountains and the Taconic Range, this charming Vermont town has mastered the art of balancing accessibility with authentic mountain adventure. Manchester gets outdoor adventure right, combining serious mountain terrain with the kind of thoughtful amenities that keep you coming back for years.
Below you’ll find our curated collection of summer outdoor adventures - from dawn-patrol hikes to adrenaline-pumping mountain bike descents, world-class fly fishing to unique mountain experiences you won't find anywhere else. We'll guide you through the best trails, the most thrilling adventure parks, championship golf courses, and the summer festivals that make Manchester Vermont a premier summer outdoor destination.
The Big Mountain Experiences
Mount Equinox towers over Manchester like a gentle giant, and the Blue Summit Trail delivers exactly what you'd hope for - sweeping 360-degree views that make the climb worth every step. The Equinox Preserve spreads across 11 miles of well-maintained trails, from the easy pond loop that's perfect for morning coffee walks to challenging summit climbs that'll test your legs. What really sets this apart is how the trails connect to the Southern Vermont Arts Center, where you can literally walk from mountain views to world-class sculpture gardens and galleries.
The Lye Brook Falls trail might just be Vermont's best-kept hiking secret. At 125 feet, it's one of the state's highest waterfalls, and the approach through the Lye Brook Wilderness feels wonderfully remote despite being only minutes from downtown Manchester. You'll follow old logging roads through dense forest - bring a headlamp if you're chasing those sunset views.
Don't miss Hildene Lincoln Family Home, where 12 miles of trails wind through the historic grounds of Robert Todd Lincoln's summer estate. The combination of history and hiking here is unmatched - you'll walk the same paths where presidential conversations once took place.
For serious hikers, the Appalachian Trail/Long Trail section to Bromley Mountain offers that classic Vermont ridge experience. The steady climb through dense forest opens up to exposed ridge walks where you can see for miles across the Green Mountain spine - it's the kind of hike that reminds you why Vermont's Long Trail is legendary among serious backpackers.
Adrenaline on Two Wheels
Come summer, Stratton Mountain Bike Park transforms from ski mountain into a full-suspension playground. The downhill trails range from flowy beginner runs to technical challenges that'll have you questioning your life choices (in the best way). What we love about Stratton is how they've designed trails that actually flow - you're not just surviving the descent, you're dancing down it.
The Northshire Area Trail System offers a completely different vibe with the Raptor Lane Trails providing technical singletrack through dense forest. For something more relaxed, the Manchester Rail Trail and Marble Rail Trail follow historic routes with gentle grades and scenic water crossings.
The Equinox Preserve welcomes mountain bikers on most of its 11-mile trail network - just avoid the single-track sections marked for hikers only. The pond loop makes for a perfect warm-up ride with your coffee.
Water Ways and Summer Escapes
Here's what puts Manchester on the map for water enthusiasts: the Battenkill River. This isn't just any fishing spot - it's where Orvis cut its teeth, where fly fishing legends were born. The river offers world-class trout fishing, but it's equally magical for kayaking and canoeing. The gentle current and crystal-clear water make it perfect for beginners, while experienced paddlers appreciate the technical sections downstream.
Vermont River Runners can set you up with everything from guided trips to solo adventures, and they know every swimming hole and secret eddy along the way.
When you need to cool off, Emerald Lake lives up to its name with that distinctive emerald tint that photographs beautifully but feels even better when you're floating in it. The Dorset Marble Quarry offers a completely different swimming experience - deep, cold mountain water surrounded by dramatic marble walls.
Adventure Parks and Unique Experiences
Bromley Mountain Adventure Park proves that ski mountains really know how to have fun year-round. The triple-track Alpine Slide is legendary and a can’t-miss. The Giant Swing launches you four stories high over the valley, while the waterslide provides instant relief from summer heat. The treetop adventure course challenges your balance and nerve while keeping you suspended in the forest canopy. These folks have it all!
The Land Rover Experience at Equinox offers something you won't find anywhere else in Vermont. Professional instructors teach you expedition-style driving through terrain that would make a mountain goat nervous. You'll master steep ascents, side-tilts, and rock crawls while exploring parts of the Green Mountains most people never see.
Dana Thompson Memorial Park might just be the most stunning rec center we’ve ever seen. The six-lane swimming pool and diving board anchor a facility that includes walking paths, skateboard park, pickleball courts, basketball, soccer fields, and playgrounds. It's where locals gather and visitors quickly feel at home. And those views are just unreal.
Swing Into Paradise
Equinox Golf Resort & Spa features the Walter Travis course redesigned by Rees Jones, where every hole offers mountain vistas that'll try to distract you from your swing. The course design takes full advantage of the natural terrain, creating challenges that feel integrated with the landscape rather than imposed upon it.
Stratton Mountain Golf Course spreads across 27 holes of championship terrain. The elevation changes and mountain views make this more than just golf - it's an alpine experience that happens to involve clubs and balls, in the best possible way.
The 18-hole disc golf course at Hunter Park winds through 25 acres of Green Mountain terrain. Whether you're a seasoned disc golfer or curious beginner, the course design offers something for every skill level while showcasing Manchester's natural beauty.
Summer Festival Season
The Manchester Music Festival (July 10-August 7, 2025) celebrates its 51st season at the Southern Vermont Arts Center, where classical music performances unfold against a backdrop of mountain vistas and sculpture gardens. There's something magical about Beethoven with a Green Mountain sunset.
The Vermont Summer Festival runs June through August, transforming the area into an equestrian wonderland with USEF-rated competition that draws riders from across the country.
For a completely different musical experience, the Dead of Summer Music Festival (July 11-13, 2025) takes over Hunter Park with three days of live music, camping, and that Vermont festival vibe that keeps people coming back year after year. The Green Mountain Bluegrass & Roots Festival brings together multiple generations of musicians and music lovers in an authentic mountain setting.
Gear Up for Adventure
The Mountain Goat stocks everything serious outdoor enthusiasts need, from Patagonia and Smartwool to Salomon and Chaco. The staff actually uses the gear they sell, so their recommendations come from experience, not sales quotas.
Orvis isn't just a store - it's where American fly fishing was born. Whether you're a complete beginner or looking to refine your technique, their instructors offer lessons that'll have you reading water like a local. The flagship store experience feels part museum, part outfitter, all Vermont.
Battenkill Bicycles keeps the local cycling community rolling with rentals, repairs, and route recommendations that locals actually use. They know which trails are running best each week and can point you toward hidden gems.
How to Make the Most of Your Mountain Life
Start early - really early. Manchester's best outdoor experiences happen when the morning mist is still rising and you've got trails to yourself. Pack layers even in summer; mountain weather changes fast, and you'll appreciate that extra fleece when you reach the summit.
Connect your activities. Hike Mount Equinox in the morning, cool off at Emerald Lake in the afternoon, then catch evening music at the Southern Vermont Arts Center. Manchester's compact size makes it easy to fit multiple adventures into a single day.
Ask locals for beta. Manchester's outdoor community is genuinely welcoming, and locals love sharing their favorite spots with people who appreciate them. Strike up conversations at The Mountain Goat or Battenkill Bicycles - you'll leave with intel you won't find in any guidebook.
The Bottom Line
Manchester works as an outdoor base camp because it offers serious mountain experiences without the pretense. You can challenge yourself on technical mountain bike trails in the morning, learn fly fishing techniques perfected over generations in the afternoon, and end your day with world-class music in a sculpture garden overlooking the mountains you just explored.
This is mountain life done right - where adventure and culture intersect, where every trail has history, and where the mountains aren't just something to look at, they're something to live.
This outdoor adventure guide is brought to you in partnership with the Manchester Business Association, connecting you with the businesses and experiences that make Manchester Vermont's premier outdoor destination.
Nestled along the pristine shores of Lake Saint Catherine in Poultney, Vermont, this charming lakefront cottage offers the quintessential Vermont lake experience. Just steps from your door, the crystal-clear waters of one of Vermont's most beloved lakes are waiting for you - with mountain views creating a picture-perfect backdrop. This serene location strikes the perfect balance - peaceful enough to hear the morning calls of loons echoing across the water, yet conveniently located near the amenities of Western Vermont and the New York border.
This thoughtfully designed lake cottage comfortably accommodates up to six guests, making it ideal for families or small groups seeking a waterfront getaway. The primary bedroom features a king-sized bed with large nightstands and double closets, perfect for longer stays. The second bedroom offers two built-in twin beds and a built-in desk - the ideal setup to maximize space and functionality. For additional sleeping space, a built-in hallway bunk adds that nostalgic summer camp feel that kids (and the young at heart) will love. With two freshly renovated bathrooms, morning routines remain stress-free even when the cottage is at full capacity.
The cathedral ceiling in the main living area immediately draws your eye upward before the stunning lake views capture your full attention through the abundant windows. This light-filled space creates an instant connection to the outdoors with wood floors that add warmth and character. But what truly distinguishes this lakefront gem is its private dock extending into Lake Saint Catherine - your personal gateway to swimming, fishing, and boating adventures.
The thoughtful indoor-outdoor flow makes summer living effortless, with two separate decks furnished with comfortable lounge chairs perfect for afternoon naps or morning coffee. The lakeside patio features a fire pit and outdoor dining setup, creating the ideal spot for evening s'mores and stargazing. As previous guests have enthusiastically noted in their numerous 5-star reviews, the sunset views over the water are absolutely breathtaking.
This lake house comes fully equipped with all the conveniences that make vacation life easy. The kitchen has everything needed to prepare fresh summer meals, whether you're cooking the day's catch or creating a lakeside feast. When you need a break from the sun, entertainment options abound with a 55-inch HDTV, cable, Apple TV, and a solid collection of board games, puzzles, and books.
For those who need to mix some work with their lake play, a dedicated workspace with reliable WiFi ensures you can stay connected. Though there's air conditioning available through a split ductless system, most guests prefer to throw open the windows and let the natural lake breezes flow through. The hosts have thought of everything - even stocking extra throw blankets for curling up with a good book in the rocking chair during cooler evenings.
The outdoor spaces truly shine at this lakefront property. The direct lake access via your private dock is the centerpiece of the experience - perfect for morning fishing, afternoon swimming sessions, or just sitting with your feet dangling in the cool water as the sun sets. The two kayaks provided by the hosts invite exploration of Lake Saint Catherine's scenic shoreline and quiet coves.
For the playfully competitive, the yard is equipped with cornhole, lawn dice, spike ball, and tiki toss games. The adventurous can swim out to the big yellow raft anchored offshore for sunbathing with panoramic views. If bird-watching is your jam, this cottage delivers with resident eagles soaring overhead and loons calling across the water throughout the day. As evening falls, the fire pit beckons for gatherings under the stars.
While you might be tempted to never leave the lakefront property, the surrounding area offers abundant activities for all interests. Golf enthusiasts will appreciate the 18-hole course just around the corner. Hikers can explore nearby trails that wind through Vermont's lush summer landscape, including sections of the beloved Long Trail just a few minutes away.
Lake Saint Catherine State Park, a short drive away, offers additional swimming beaches, picnic areas, and boat rentals. For a change of scenery, head to nearby Lake Bomoseen for paddleboarding or visit the historic marble quarries in Proctor. On rainy days, the shops and restaurants of Rutland are less than 30 minutes away.
For a truly unique Vermont experience that you won't find elsewhere, check out the summer rodeos at Pond Hill Ranch. Every Saturday night from July through Labor Day weekend, this authentic Western-style rodeo brings bull riding, barrel racing, and bronc riding to the Green Mountains—a surprising and thrilling contrast to Vermont's usual pastoral scenes. Kids especially love the calf scramble and meeting the cowboys after the show.
Summer visitors can time their stay to coincide with local farmers' markets where you can stock up on fresh Vermont produce, artisanal cheeses, and homemade baked goods for lakeside picnics.
The Cluckin Cafe at Cones Point Country Store is a true Lake Saint Catherine gem, serving breakfast, lunch, and dinner just minutes from your cottage. After your meal, challenge the family to a round of miniature golf or treat everyone to their delicious homemade ice cream while browsing local gifts.
Toads Burger Bar in Poultney delivers comfort food perfection with their signature smash burgers, hand-cut fries, and indulgent milkshakes. Their kid-friendly space and TVs showing live sports make it an easy win for the whole family after a day on the lake.
Lake House Pub & Grille offers spectacular views alongside their menu of fresh seafood and Vermont specialties. Try their famous tacos and listen to live music while watching boats cruise across Lake Bomoseen—a perfect evening outing when you're ready to explore beyond Lake Saint Catherine.
Wine enthusiasts shouldn't miss Whaleback Vineyard, where you can sample distinctive cold-climate wines with scenic views of the surrounding countryside. Their outdoor tasting area is the perfect spot to unwind and discover Vermont's emerging wine scene.
The cottage is approximately 4 hours from New York City, 3.5 hours from Boston, and 2 hours from Albany. The scenic drive takes you through picturesque New England towns and rolling countryside that sets the tone perfectly for your Vermont lake vacation.
For those seeking a more scenic approach, historic Route 30 follows the western edge of Vermont through charming villages with mountain views at every turn.
Summer rates for this highly-rated lakefront cottage (4.88/5 stars from 42 reviews!) start from $275/night, with weekly rates available for extended stays. Peak summer months (July-August) and holiday weekends typically require a minimum 3-night stay.
Book directly through Vermont.com to secure your lake escape. With its perfect waterfront location and consistent 5-star reviews, summer weekends book quickly, so early reservations are strongly recommended.
Set your alarm for at least one sunrise during your stay. The early morning light on Lake Saint Catherine is magical, and watching the mist rise off the water while listening to the loons call is an authentic Vermont experience you won't soon forget.
Perched on a scenic hillside in Dover, Vermont, this stunning mountain home offers breathtaking panoramic views of the Green Mountains that transform into lush, vibrant landscapes during summer months. Nestled in a well-established community just across from Mount Snow, this retreat puts you in the heart of Vermont's summer playground. The property's elevated location provides those jaw-dropping mountain vistas that make summer in Vermont so magical, with rolling green hills stretching as far as the eye can see.
Though our current photos showcase this newly built luxury retreat in its winter splendor, trust us when we say the summer transformation is even more breathtaking, with the surrounding mountains draped in lush greenery and wildflowers replacing snowdrifts on those same stunning panoramic views.
This spacious mountain haven is designed with summer family reunions and multi-family getaways in mind. With six bedrooms and six full bathrooms, everyone gets their own space without sacrificing togetherness. The sleeping arrangements include a primary bedroom with a king-sized bed, another bedroom with two queen beds for families wanting to stay together, and additional bedrooms with single beds - perfect for kids or solo travelers. With ample bathrooms, there's no waiting in line after a day of hiking or swimming, making it ideal for large summer gatherings.
The architectural charm of this newly built mountain home truly shines during summer months. The great room serves as the heart of the home with soaring ceilings and expansive windows that frame the verdant mountain views and let in that perfect Vermont summer breeze. The crown jewel of summer living here is undoubtedly the screened-in porch with its own fireplace - an enchanted space where you can enjoy starry nights and morning coffee without worrying about bugs, or gather for evening conversations even during summer showers.
The home's thoughtful layout creates natural zones for different activities and age groups. Adults can sip local craft beers on the porch while kids hang out in the basement entertainment area. The double-island kitchen is a summer entertaining dream, with plenty of counter space for preparing farm-fresh meals from local Vermont produce or setting up an epic summer barbecue spread.
This mountain retreat comes fully equipped with all the modern conveniences that make summer vacations seamless. High-speed WiFi keeps everyone connected, while smart TVs offer entertainment options for those occasional rainy summer days. The full-sized washer and dryer make extended summer stays hassle-free, especially after muddy hikes or days at the swimming hole.
Air conditioning ensures comfort during those peak summer days, while ceiling fans create perfect circulation for breezy evenings. The spacious kitchen features high-end appliances ideal for preparing summer feasts with local produce from nearby farmers' markets. A dedicated workspace means you can extend your summer stay and mix business with pleasure if needed.
The summer months truly showcase this property's exceptional outdoor offerings. The community center features an indoor swimming pool perfect for cooling off, plus tennis and pickleball courts that come alive during the warmer months. Morning yoga on the deck with mountain views becomes a daily ritual you won't want to end.
From the property's elevated position, you'll witness Vermont summer in all its glory – vibrant wildflowers, lush forests, and dramatic sunsets that paint the mountains in golden hues. The thoughtfully designed outdoor spaces create perfect spots for morning coffee, afternoon reading, or evening stargazing during those perfect summer nights when the Vermont sky fills with stars rarely seen near cities.
Summer transforms Mount Snow and the surrounding area into an outdoor enthusiast's paradise. The mountain's lift-serviced bike park features over 20 trails for every skill level, from gentle cruisers to heart-pounding downhill runs. Nearby Somerset Reservoir offers peaceful kayaking and canoeing opportunities with mountain backdrops that will fill your Instagram feed.
Hiking options abound, from family-friendly nature walks at Hogback Mountain to challenging segments of the Appalachian/Long Trail. The nearby Harriman Reservoir features sandy beaches perfect for swimming and sunbathing, plus excellent fishing for bass and trout.
Adventure seekers can book zipline tours at Mount Snow's Adventure Park or try the exhilarating mountain coaster. Golfers will appreciate the 18-hole Mount Snow Golf Club with its stunning mountain views and challenging layout designed by Geoffrey Cornish.
For dinner, Two Tannery Road offers farm-to-table summer specialties showcasing the region's abundant produce. Their garden patio dining is magical on summer evenings, with string lights illuminating plates of fresh Vermont cheeses and locally raised meats.
Beer enthusiasts shouldn't miss Beer Naked Brewery on Route 9, where handcrafted summer ales and wheat beers come with stunning panoramic views from their mountaintop location. Their outdoor beer garden is the perfect spot to watch the sunset after a day of outdoor adventures.
Cool off with a stop at Sticky Fingers Bakery in Wilmington for homemade ice cream and summer berry tarts that capture the essence of Vermont's short but spectacular growing season.
The retreat is approximately 3.5 hours from New York City, 2.5 hours from Boston, and just under 2 hours from Hartford, making it an accessible weekend escape from major Northeast cities. Summer driving conditions are excellent, with scenic routes like the Molly Stark Byway (Route 9) offering picturesque views of Vermont's countryside.
The drive itself becomes part of your vacation experience as you leave the city behind and watch the landscape transform into Vermont's signature rolling hills and charming small towns. Consider taking the slightly longer but incredibly scenic Route 100 for part of your journey – often called Vermont's most beautiful road.
Summer rates for this premium mountain retreat start from $650/night, with slight increases during peak times like July 4th weekend and August. Weekend stays typically require a 2-night minimum, while holiday periods may require 3 nights.
Book directly through Vermont.com to secure your summer escape at this exceptional property. Summer weekends book quickly, especially in July and August, so early reservations are recommended to secure your preferred dates.
Pack a good pair of binoculars! The property's elevation and unobstructed views make it perfect for wildlife spotting and stargazing during clear summer nights. The Perseid meteor shower in mid-August is particularly spectacular from this mountaintop vantage point.
This Mother’s Day, trade flowers and chocolates for something far more fabulous - a glammed-up whodunnit weekend at a grand Vermont mansion with movie star flair. From May 9th to 11th, 2025, The Wilburton invites you to step back into 1955 and join the Hollywood elite for a murder mystery to die for.
Cue the dramatic music, roll the camera, and pour the mimosas - this isn’t your average Mother's Day getaway.
Perched high on a hill and straight out of an Agatha Christie novel (or a 1950s movie set), The Wilburton Mansion sets the perfect stage for its annual Murder Mystery Weekend. This year’s theme, The Million Dollar Movie, brings RKO Studios’ golden era back to life - think Fred & Ginger, Citizen Kane, and the drama of one last secret board meeting gone wildly off-script.
Will the stars align? Will someone not make it to the final act? And who, exactly, invited the giant gorilla?
It’s 1955, and RKO Pictures has convened its most glamorous stars and scheming execs for one last production pitch - right at The Wilburton. As egos clash and cocktails flow, ambition turns deadly. You’ll join the story as a guest or suspect, gathering clues and dancing through the mansion's grand salon, library, and billiard room as the mystery unfolds.
This isn’t just dinner - it’s a full-blown immersive experience, complete with a musical twist, themed cocktails, and characters worthy of the silver screen.
Hollywood loves a costume moment, and so does The Wilburton. Whether you arrive as a debonair studio boss, a dazzling starlet, or your favorite RKO movie character, this weekend is your chance to sparkle - literally.
Festive cocktail attire is encouraged, screen tests and top hats are optional, and prizes await the most stylish sleuths. Don’t worry - a professional photographer will be on hand to capture your red-carpet-worthy look.
The festivities begin Friday evening with a wine & cheese reception and a cabaret performance that sets the stage for the drama to come. Saturday kicks off with a Vermont country breakfast, followed by a doggie stroll through Manchester Village and a visit to the on-site Museum of the Creative Process.
At night, it’s showtime - the musical murder mystery dinner party takes center stage. And on Sunday morning? Toast to mom with a Mom-osa mimosa and breakfast in the sunny solarium or out on the terrace with sweeping mountain views.
The Wilburton’s mystery weekends date back to the 1990s homage to Broadway’s The Sisters Rosensweig, and each year, the inn’s own Tajlei Levis (a musical playwright herself) weaves a new story inspired by the inn’s rich history and wild imagination.
From screwball comedy to theatrical suspense, these events have been featured in Broadway World, AARP, and The Boston Globe. And trust us - this isn’t just dinner theater. It’s an experience that guests talk about all year long.
So, what’ll it be this Mother’s Day? Another brunch reservation and a greeting card? Or a weekend of laughter, mystery, and vintage glamour at Vermont’s most dramatic mansion?
Whether you’re bringing your mom, your besties, your partner, or your pup (yes, it's dog-friendly!) - the 2025 Mother’s Day Murder Mystery Weekend is your chance to escape the ordinary and step into the spotlight.
Just don’t forget to pack your sequins… and your sleuthing skills.
Want to treat mom (or yourself) even more?
💐 Rates start at $235/night + $150 per person for the event package.
📞 Call 802-362-2500 or Book Online
Welcome to the kind of Vermont property you don’t just stumble upon — you seek it out. 860 True North Way is more than an address; it’s a portal into your wildest dreams of freedom, self-reliance, and deep-woods peace. Spread across 1,405 contiguous acres of pristine wilderness in Jay, Vermont, this rare retreat is equal parts adventure basecamp, conservation haven, and off-grid sanctuary. Whether you're craving complete solitude, looking to build a legacy property, or chasing the back-to-the-land lifestyle (with a few modern luxuries), this one brings the heat — and then some.
Let’s start with the heart of it all: a beautifully renovated off-grid chalet, set on 976 acres of land protected by a land trust easement. This isn’t your average rustic camp. The chalet comes fully loaded with solar power, battery backup, and an auto-fired generator — all the gear you need to live comfortably without ever flipping on a power company switch.
Inside, things are warm, open, and welcoming. The main floor features a bedroom and bathroom, plus an open-concept kitchen, living, and dining space under cathedral ceilings. Oversized windows and a classic Vermont woodstove deliver the perfect mix of rugged charm and cozy comfort, with mountain views that absolutely steal the show. French doors lead to a wide, sun-soaked deck — ideal for that first mug of coffee, a sunset IPA, or a front-row seat to the Northern Kingdom’s nightly sky show.
There’s also a loft upstairs and a full walk-out basement below, unfinished but brimming with potential — gear room, bunkhouse, creative studio, second living space? You decide.
We’re not exaggerating when we say this property is massive. The land stretches from ridgeline to riverbank and includes two additional tracts to the west — 274 and 155 acres — that bring even more value (and adventure). The western parcels aren’t just wild; they’re working, too. A leased sugaring operation with 7,000+ taps brings in $25K/year. And that’s not the only revenue stream — the entire property is enrolled in the Cold Hollow Carbon Credit Program and Vermont’s Current Use program, keeping your taxes light and income flowing.
The terrain? It’s a dream for anyone who’s ever owned a pair of snowshoes, strapped on a backpack, or waxed a pair of skis. Miles of private trails weave through hardwood forests and rolling meadows. There’s a spring-fed trout pond for quiet mornings with a fly rod. Wildlife abounds. And best of all, the property borders thousands of acres of conserved land, giving you a direct line to even more skiing, hiking, hunting, and off-road exploring. It’s like having your own state park — but better.
Though you’ll feel a world away, you’re just down the road from Jay Peak Resort, where winter warriors and summer seekers alike come to ski, ride, golf, and splash. You’re also minutes from the Canadian border — this property includes more than two miles of frontage along the international line — making it a true north-country gem with easy access to Quebec’s charm.
And while you’re off-grid, you’re not off-map. Nearby villages like Montgomery and Troy offer low-key community vibes, while the resort scene at Jay keeps things lively when you want a little après action.
What’s special about 860 True North Way is that it’s not just one thing. It could be your full-time home, a family compound, a retreat center, a conservation-minded investment, or the off-grid outpost you’ve always dreamed about. It already has the infrastructure, the income, and the epic setting. All it needs is someone ready to write the next chapter.
So whether you’re drawn by the call of the wild, the promise of privacy, or the idea of creating a multi-generational legacy in the heart of Vermont — this is your moment.
HEED THE CALL.
Contact Nicholas Maclure of Century 21 Farm & Forest to schedule a private showing: (802) 673-8876 and be sure to mention Vermont.com.
December 12, 13, 14, and 15, 2024 in Warren, Newport, Grafton, and Manchester, Vermont
Burlington, VT – December 2, 2024 – The Vermont Symphony Orchestra presents its beloved Brass Quintet concerts in collaboration with Counterpoint, a Montpelier-based choral chamber music ensemble. The family-friendly program will combine festive brass and vocal music for all ages to enjoy and celebrate the holiday season.
“The Brass Quintet and Counterpoint concerts are one of VSO’s favorite holiday traditions,” said Elise Brunelle, Executive Director of the Vermont Symphony Orchestra. “We look forward to bringing this year’s program to communities across Vermont to spread holiday cheer and enjoy festive music together.”
Nathaniel J. Lew will conduct the concerts, which will feature VSO musicians Shelagh Abate, horn; Mark Emery, trumpet; Ryan Noe, trumpet; Matthew Wright, trombone; and Zachary Grass, tuba.
The program features a mix of sacred and secular holiday tunes—carols such as Hark the Herald Angels Sing, The Twelve Days of Christmas, and O Holy Night; and an international flavor with Greek, Catalan, and Mexican music. The VSO Brass Quintet will also perform the world premiere of a piece entitled “The Great Ice Field” by Music-COMP student Harrison Brown, a Stowe High School senior.
VSO’s premieres of works by Music-COMP students stretches back more than ten years, and fulfills a mission to showcase the variety and depth of music created by young Vermonters. “My inspiration for composing ‘The Great Ice Field’ was a sub-genre of heavy metal music as well as a frozen lake scene in Elden Ring, one of my favorite video games,” said Harrison Brown. “As a Music-COMP student, I have always wanted to write a piece for the VSO and I am so happy I finally got the opportunity.”
Performance Details:
The December 12 performance in Warren is dedicated to the memory of Virginia Roth, a passionate music lover and supporter of the holiday concerts in Warren, Vermont, for many years.
Information and tickets for these concerts can be found at vso.org.
About the Vermont Symphony Orchestra:
Celebrating its 90th anniversary with the 2024/25 season, the Vermont Symphony Orchestra is a cultural cornerstone in the region, enriching communities and the lives of Vermonters statewide. With a commitment to artistic excellence, innovative programming, and community engagement, the VSO has established itself as one of the country’s premier state orchestras. For more information about the Vermont Symphony Orchestra and to purchase tickets for this concert series, please visit VSO.org.
Stratton Mountain Resort is turning it up this season - $20 million up, to be exact. With fresh snowmaking upgrades, cutting-edge equipment, lift modernizations, and even enhanced employee housing, Stratton is rolling into winter with a serious glow-up. Whether you’re here for the powder or just to snag a waffle from the cabin that’s finally back (yes, that Waffle Cabin), this winter is shaping up to be one for the books.
You know those perfectly groomed trails that make your runs feel like a dream? Stratton just raised the bar. They’ve added 160 new HKD KLIK hydrants to popular trails like Frank’s Fall Line, Mike’s Way, and Old Log Road. Plus, 25 state-of-the-art snow guns are taking up residence on Mike’s Way, ensuring top-tier conditions all season long.
If snowmaking’s a science, Stratton’s got a PhD this year. Add in a Prinoth Bison X snowcat for precision grooming, and it’s clear this mountain isn’t messing around.
Beyond the snowmaking upgrades, Stratton’s investments touch every corner of the resort:
Stratton knows how to bring the fun. From New Year’s Eve fireworks to the HOMESICK snowboard fest and the legendary Annual Pond Skim, this mountain knows how to party.
Don’t miss these family-friendly classics:
Nothing caps a day on the slopes like good food and great vibes, and Stratton’s got both in spades:
Stratton may not want to give away all its secrets, but here’s a taste:
Stratton’s reputation as a family-oriented mountain is well-earned, with activities and vibes that welcome everyone from tiny shredders to seasoned pros. And they’re doing their part to keep Vermont green:
With its vibrant base village full of shops, dining, and year-round activities, Stratton is more than a mountain - it’s a destination. From the thrill of the slopes to the community's charm, this is winter in Vermont at its finest.
Whether you’re here for the runs, the waffles, or the après, Stratton Mountain Resort has everything you need to make this winter unforgettable. See you out on the mountain!
Alright, winter warriors, it’s that time of year again! Whether you’re a seasoned shredder or just starting out, Vermont’s mountains are gearing up for another epic season. We’ve got the inside scoop on when your favorite resorts are opening, along with all the passes, deals, and perks you need to make the most of this winter. From family-friendly slopes to beastly runs for the adrenaline junkies, there's something here for everyone. So, grab a hot chocolate, bundle up, and let’s dive into the projected opening dates and passes for the 2024/25 ski season in Vermont. First up: the iconic Stratton Mountain Resort and family-favorite Smugglers' Notch Resort!
Why we love it: Stratton just keeps getting better, especially for families and beginners. They’ve expanded their Learning Zone with three new state-of-the-art covered surface lifts. The beginner areas have been regraded, helping those learning to advance quicker. If you're looking to take a ski or snowboard lesson this winter, Stratton is the place to do it!
Why we love it: Smuggs is known as "America's Family Resort," and trust us, they’ve earned that title! From their legendary Family Fun Guarantee to the Fun Zone 2.0 (a one-of-a-kind indoor playground for kids and adults, featuring everything from a bouncy house to laser tag, climbing walls, and an arcade - whew!) this is where memories are made!
Why we love it: They don’t call it “The Beast of the East” for nothing! Killington is the king of the long season, sometimes staying open until May! If you’re ready for endless powder days, this is your spot.
Why we love it: Known for some of the best grooming and snow-making in Vermont, as well as a top-tier ski and ride program, Okemo is consistently a family favorite. Perfect corduroy and family fun? Check!
Why we love it: Known as the “Ski Capital of the East,” Stowe doesn’t just deliver on skiing—it’s also home to one of the best ski towns in America. Shopping, dining, entertainment—Stowe has it all. Perfect for when you want to hit the slopes and then unwind in style.
Why we love it: Bolton Valley is a hidden gem and the only Vermont resort with night skiing! So if you’re not ready to call it quits when the sun goes down, this is the place for you.
Why we love it: As Vermont’s "Sun Mountain," Bromley gets sunlight all day long. You’ll be toasty warm even on the coldest days, making this a great choice for families.
Why we love it: The “Jay Cloud” isn’t just a myth—it’s a snow-making machine! This mountain gets dumped on more than any other resort in Vermont. Also, don’t miss their epic indoor waterpark, a perfect après-ski adventure for the whole family.
Why we love it: Mount Snow is home to Carinthia, the East Coast’s largest terrain park. If you’re into tricks, rails, and jumps, this is your playground.
Why we love it: Sugarbush has everything—challenging terrain, stunning views, and an authentically Vermont experience. While many come for the snow, the Mad River Valley community is a treasure trove of local farms, artisan cheese, and craft breweries like Lawson’s Finest Liquids. Come for the skiing, stay for the culture.
Why we love it: Burke Mountain is beloved for its laid-back vibe and is home to the world-renowned Burke Mountain Academy, which has produced many Olympic ski racers. Venture up to the Northeast Kingdom to experience the excellence!
Why we love it: Famous for its motto "Ski it if you can," Mad River Glen is one of the last ski resorts in the U.S. to ban snowboarding, but we recognize it more for its epic terrain, jaw-dropping vistas, and of course, the legendary single chair!
Why we love it: Pico is smaller than its neighboring Killington but offers a more relaxed, less crowded atmosphere that locals and families love. Don’t sleep on this Green Mountain gem!
Why we love it: Offering a throwback to the early days of skiing with its small-town charm and history, Saskadena Six is everything we love about Vermont skiing. Be sure to visit nearby Woodstock for picture-perfect dining and lodging to go with your powder turns!
Why we love it: Magic Mountain is known for its old-school vibe and has some of the best tree skiing in the state. For a rocking good time, make sure to hit up The Black Line Tavern for some quintessential après ski enjoyment.
Ikon Pass: Love to explore? The Ikon Pass gives you access to over 50 destinations around the globe, including Stratton and Sugarbush in Vermont. With no blackout dates, this pass is ideal for those who like to mix things up. The Ikon Base Pass offers the same perks with a few blackout dates, making it a bit more affordable.
Epic Pass: For those loyal to Vermont’s iconic resorts like Okemo, Stowe, and Mount Snow, the Epic Pass is your golden ticket. It grants unlimited access with no restrictions, plus discounts on rentals, lessons, and lodging. If you’re skiing across multiple mountains or want the flexibility of hopping between resorts, Epic is your go-to. The Epic Day Pass offers even more flexibility for shorter trips!
Welcome to 132 Landgrove Road, a rare and historic treasure nestled in the heart of Vermont’s majestic Green Mountains offered by Brian Gehlich and David Citron of Re/max Four Seasons. This quintessential, full-service country inn spans 9,730 square feet and sits on 23.7 acres of beautifully landscaped property, offering endless possibilities for its next owner. Whether you’re ready to step into the Vermont innkeeper’s dream or reimagine this space as a private estate compound, the Landgrove Inn is your blank canvas for a life well-lived.
Built in 1810, this classic property has been lovingly maintained and updated by its current owner for over 21 years. The Landgrove Inn includes 16 charming rooms and suites, along with private owner’s quarters consisting of three additional rooms. Whether hosting guests or loved ones, every corner of this property speaks to comfort and timeless charm.
The property’s revenue streams are bolstered by the InView Center for the Arts, a purpose-built facility constructed in 2009. With over 1,800 square feet, this building hosts more than 35 groups per year, each staying for up to five nights and enjoying three meals daily. From art retreats to corporate workshops, the Arts Center is a cornerstone of the inn’s success - and a launchpad for even greater potential.
Other key updates include a new generator installed in 2023 and a recently replaced roof on half the inn in 2022. These investments ensure that the inn is ready to welcome its next chapter of guests or serve as the foundation for a private, multi-purpose estate.
Beyond the buildings, the Landgrove Inn’s property is a dream. A sparkling pond, inviting in-ground pool, and newly added pickleball court provide recreational opportunities for guests or family members. The lush grounds are framed by stunning mountain views that shift with the seasons, offering a backdrop of fall foliage, winter snowscapes, and lush summer greenery.
When the outdoors calls, you’re just minutes from some of Vermont’s best ski destinations. Stratton Mountain, Bromley Mountain, and Magic Mountain are all within easy reach, offering world-class skiing, snowboarding, and year-round activities. In summer, nearby lakes and trails provide opportunities for kayaking, hiking, and enjoying the serene Vermont landscape.
While Landgrove itself is a peaceful retreat, nearby towns offer world-class culinary and cultural experiences. Peru is home to the iconic JJ Hapgood General Store, where you can sip a warm coffee, savor delicious local fare, or gather provisions for your next adventure. In Weston, you’ll find The Vermont Country Store, a beloved landmark brimming with all kinds of Vermont goods and nostalgia, and the Weston Playhouse, where Broadway-quality productions take the stage.
A short drive to Manchester opens up even more possibilities, from fine dining and boutique shopping to cultural events and outdoor activities. Whether you’re exploring art galleries or indulging in farm-to-table cuisine, Manchester complements the quiet charm of Landgrove with vibrant energy.
The Landgrove Inn is more than just a property - it’s a lifestyle and an opportunity. Whether you choose to continue its legacy as a beloved country inn or transform it into a private estate, this property offers the space, amenities, and location to bring your vision to life. The solid base business from the InView Center for the Arts and the loyal guest base ensure a seamless transition for aspiring innkeepers, while the sprawling acreage and versatile facilities invite creative reimaginings for private use.
This is your chance to own a piece of Vermont history and make it your own. With a blend of historic charm, modern updates, and unparalleled natural beauty, 132 Landgrove Road is the ultimate escape. Contact Brian Gehlich or David Citron of RE/MAX Four Seasons at 917-538-5913 to schedule your private showing. Whether you’re drawn to the Vermont innkeeper lifestyle or dream of crafting your private retreat, this property is ready to welcome you home to the Green Mountains.
Nestled on the shores of Lake Willoughby, The Grandview cottage offers a unique blend of historic lakefront charm and modern amenities, all for under $360,000. This beautifully upgraded home listed by Nicholas Maclure at Century 21 Farm & Forest presents an exceptional opportunity for those dreaming of serene Vermont lake life without breaking the bank.
Breathtaking Lake Views Imagine waking up to panoramic views of Lake Willoughby from your open kitchen, living, and dining area. The new deck provides the perfect spot for morning coffee or evening relaxation, offering an uninterrupted view of the lake’s pristine waters. With expansive views and the lake just a stone’s throw away, The Grandview promises endless opportunities for fishing, swimming, boating, hiking, and more.
Historic Hints with Modern Comforts Showcasing many of the original details and stylings, The Grandview features exposed wood walls and ceilings that exude a rustic yet cozy vibe. The two-bedroom, one-bathroom cottage has undergone significant upgrades, including new windows, a roof, wiring, kitchen appliances, and a modern bathroom. These enhancements ensure you enjoy the comforts of modern life while preserving the home's authentic character.
Outdoor Enthusiast’s Paradise The Grandview’s prime location in the Northeast Kingdom offers easy access to the North Beach of Lake Willoughby, which features town-maintained parking, and local amenities like basketball courts and direct access to the VAST network of trails. Whether you're into hiking, mountain biking, snowmobiling, or simply exploring the great outdoors, this property places you in the heart of Vermont's natural beauty.
Investment Potential With just under an acre of land, the expansive front yard and wooded backyard provide ample space for future amenities or additions. With its desirable location and modern upgrades, The Grandview is not just a home but an excellent investment opportunity in the Green Mountains.
Experience Vermont Living For those seeking a tranquil retreat with the charm of a bygone era and the conveniences of today, The Grandview is your perfect match. Don’t miss this rare opportunity to own a piece of lakefront paradise for under $360,000.
Ready to make The Grandview your own? Contact Nicholas Maclure at Century 21 Farm & Forest today for a private tour and see firsthand why this property is the epitome of affordable lake life in Vermont.
Catamount Arts and KCP Presents announce British vocal ensemble VOCES8, at St. Johnsbury Academy’s Fuller Hall, on March 4th, at 7pm. Dubbed “the slickest of the lot,” by BBC Radio 3, VOCES8 performs a capella arrangements ranging from the Renaissance era to modern cinema, captivating audiences around the world.
Versatility, crystalline harmonies, and the shared joy of singing are hallmarks of VOCES8’s renowned performances. A celebration of diverse musical expression is central to the ensemble’s transformative entertainment and education ethos. VOCES8 performs music from film, pop, classical, and Celtic traditions, transporting audiences through a vast musical landscape of the British Isles and beyond.
Since their inception in 2005, VOCES8 has performed at prestigious venues including Wigmore Hall, Elhphilharmonie Hamburg, Cite de la Musique in Paris, Vienna Kozerthaus, Tokyo Opera City, NCPA Beijing, Sydney Opera House, Victoria Concert Hall Singapore, Palacio de Bellas Artes in Mexico City, and countless others. New projects with Eric Whitacre, Paul Simon, and Taylor Scott Davis are currently in the works.
VOCES8’s current U.S. tour is the subject of a new documentary series titled, “Backstage Pass.” Filmed in New York, Philadelphia, Washington and New Jersey, “Backstage Pass” captures the heart of VOCES8 and their mission to change the world through music. The pilot episode is currently available on YouTube.
VOCES8 is dedicated not only to performance but to music education. The VOCES8 Foundation, a registered charity praised by UNESCO and responsible for investing over $1M in music education in the UK alone, offers educational programs, choral scholarships, summer school, and a music education center in London. One of the only vocal ensembles in the world to run its own center for music outreach and education, VOCES8 runs workshops, master classes, concerts, and recording sessions in London’s VOCES8 Centre.
Vermont’s Northeast Kingdom is home to hundreds of choral music students, both children and adults alike, including St. Johnsbury Academy’s Hill-Tones, the Halcyon Chorale, Newark’s beloved Balkan Chorus, as well as bands and ensembles such as Kingdom All Stars and EPIC Music. VOCES8’s St. Johnsbury performance promises a rare and inspiring opportunity for aspiring singers to see one the world’s most renowned chorale groups, creators and practitioners of the VOCES8 Method, up close and personal. Those who can’t wait are encouraged to visit VOCES8’s YouTube page to watch clips of the ensemble performing selections ranging from Lord of the Rings to Metallica to Handel.
“The singing of VOCES8,” raves Gramophone, “is impeccable in its quality of tone and balance. They bring a new dimension to the word ‘ensemble’ with meticulous timing and tuning.”
For tickets to see VOCES8, at St. Johnsbury Academy’s Fuller Hall, March 4th, at 7pm, or to learn more about upcoming KCP Presents shows, visit www.kcppresents.org or www.catamountarts.org. Alternatively, call 802-748-2600 or visit the Catamount Arts pop-up box office in the Caplan’s Building on Railroad Street, in St. Johnsbury.
The KCP Presents Series is produced by Catamount Arts working in association with Kingdom County Productions and supported by generous local sponsors including Passumpsic Bank, St. Johnsbury Academy, Vermont Broadcast Associates, Vermont Public, Seven Days, The Point, The Autosaver Group, and with grant funding from the National Endowment for the Arts, Vermont Arts Council, and the New England Foundation for the Arts.
The thrill of skiing in Vermont becomes even more exhilarating when you have the right equipment under your feet. Thankfully, that's where Equipe Sport steps in, a haven for outdoor enthusiasts since 1989. Nestled in the heart of southern Vermont, Equipe Sport is not just a store; it's your gateway to the ultimate outdoor adventure. Whether you're skiing, snowboarding, snowshoeing, or setting out on a cross-country skiing adventure, their mission is simple: to set you up with the best gear and knowledge for an unforgettable experience.
From its humble beginnings at the junction of Route 30 and Route 100 (just minutes from Stratton, Bromley, and Magic ski mountains) Equipe Sport has grown into a cherished institution among the Southern Vermont outdoor community. With four strategic locations, including their flagship store (Rawsonville), Stratton Village, Mtn. Riders (also Rawsonville), and Mount Snow, they've cemented their reputation as southern Vermont's premier outdoor gear provider. Each store, staffed by passionate outdoor enthusiasts, offers a personalized service that's as unique as your outdoor adventures.
Equipe Sport's ski rental process and services are designed with you in mind. Offering a wide range of equipment for adults and youths, including skis, snowboards, cross-country gear, and snowshoes - there's something for every skill level and preference. Whether you’re an advanced/experienced rider or a complete novice excited for your first time on the hill - Equipe Sport has the right equipment to make your outing a success.
Plus, their convenient online booking system ensures your gear is ready when you are, allowing for a hassle-free start to your adventure.
Thinking of turning those demos into a permanent addition to your ski quiver? Great! Equipe’s Demo as Rental program is just what you’re looking for, offering skiers a chance to test the latest models from top brands like Volkl, Blizzard, Kastle and more. With a straightforward rate and the ability to apply two days of rental towards a purchase, it's an unbeatable opportunity to find your perfect match on the slopes.
Each of the four Equipe Sport locations (plus Mountain Riders) offers a unique blend of services and expertise, ensuring no matter where you are in southern Vermont, high-quality rental and demo experiences are within reach. The convenience of their locations underscores their commitment to making the most out of your skiing and riding adventures. After all the quicker you get the right gear, the faster you can be out ripping turns!
What truly sets Equipe Sport apart is their team of outdoor experts. With nearly 35 years of experience, their staff excels in matching clients with the right equipment, thanks to their deep knowledge of the latest technology and a genuine passion for outdoor sports. From advanced boot-fitting processes to in-depth equipment guidance, they ensure your gear enhances your performance and enjoyment on the slopes.
Booking your rentals or demo gear is easy and straightforward, with options to reserve online and pick up your equipment at the most convenient location. Their flexible system, including early pickup and drop-off, exemplifies their customer-first approach, ensuring your skiing adventure starts on the right foot.
Blending top-notch equipment, unparalleled expertise, and a commitment to customer satisfaction, the folks at Equipe have your best interests in mind. Whether you're hitting the slopes for the first time or seeking to bring your skiing adventure to the next level, Equipe Sport is your one-stop shop, ensuring every turn is a winner.
Ready to Elevate Your Ski Experience? Head over to Equipe Sport's website now to book your ski rentals or demo equipment. Whether you're carving down the slopes of Stratton or exploring the trails of Mount Snow, the perfect gear awaits you. Reserve today and discover why Equipe Sport is Southern Vermont's premier destination for skiers and riders seeking the best in equipment, expertise, and service.
How do I choose the right ski equipment rental package?
Your choice should be based on your skill level, terrain preferences, and personal comfort. Equipe Sport's expert staff can guide you through selecting the perfect package for your needs.
Can I book my ski rentals and demo programs online?
Yes, Equipe Sport offers an easy online booking system for all their rental and demo services, ensuring your gear is ready for pickup at your convenience.
What makes Equipe Sport different from other ski rental providers?
Their nearly 35 years of experience, personalized customer service, and commitment to quality set them apart. Their knowledgeable staff and state-of-the-art equipment ensure a superior skiing experience.
Are there options for skiers at all levels in the demo programs?
Absolutely. Equipe Sport's demo programs cater to skiers of all skill levels, offering a wide range of high-quality equipment to test on the slopes.
How can I make the most out of my ski trip with Equipe Sport's services?
Take advantage of their expert advice, consider demoing equipment before buying, and don't hesitate to ask for adjustments or recommendations during your trip to enhance your skiing experience.
What are the benefits of trying equipment through a demo program before purchasing?
Demoing allows you to test various models under real conditions, ensuring your investment in equipment truly suits your style and preferences, which ultimately enhances your time out on the slopes.
Catamount Arts and First Night North 2024 invite revelers near and far to come to St. Johnsbury for the 31st year of Vermont’s favorite and longest-running New Year’s Eve performance festival. Featuring about 175 performers in nearly 70 shows in venues throughout St. Johnsbury, First Night North guarantees a full nine hours of fun for the whole family. The eagerly anticipated festivities, presented by Catamount Arts in partnership with the First Night North committee and countless community supporters, will take place Sunday, December 31st, from 3pm to midnight.
The fun begins an hour earlier than usual with early bird entertainment for all ages, especially those whose bedtime falls well before midnight. Celebrants with enough stamina for the full nine hours of live entertainment will have 70 shows to choose from, including storytellers, dance, magic, circus, comedy, juggling, and music, culminating in a community countdown, the raising of the First Night North Ball of Lights, and a midnight dance party to welcome the New Year.
Musical acts include a wide range of soloists, duets, choirs, and bands offering nearly every imaginable genre: bluegrass, folk, jazz, Celtic, blues, R&B, contemporary and classic rock, polyphonic, country, Latin, and swing, not to mention riveting performances on harp, organ, didgeridoo, and more.
Tried and true favorites will include Fairbanks Planetarium shows, Bob and Sarah Amos, Tritium Well, Marko the Magician and Hypnotist, and the Family Fun Fair. Two dozen new attractions are slated this year, including karaoke, hosted by Open Stage, and performances by Cirque Us, Halcyon Chorale, and Alyx the Magician.
There will be plenty to eat throughout the festival, both indoors and out, as food trucks, community centers, and venues up and down Main Street prepare a variety of tasty vittles ranging from full dinners to desserts and snacks as well as First Night’s traditional and beloved pancake supper.
Patrons are encouraged as always to sample a variety of entertainment, and shuttle service will include RCT electric buses running continuous 15-minute loops among performance venues. Buses can be flagged down anywhere along the route.
Since 1993, First Night North (formerly First Night St. Johnsbury) has been a family-friendly, substance-free festival aiming to redefine New Year’s Eve as a community-wide holiday, gathering friends, families, neighbors, visitors, long-time First Night revelers and first-timers alike to celebrate the New Year in a season typically characterized by short days, cold temps, and long, dark nights. First Night North unites community through shared cultural celebration, deepens appreciation and access to visual and performing arts, and encourages people of all ages to come out, despite the dark and cold, and share a magical evening of joy and spectacle with loved ones and new friends.
For many, both in and outside the Northeast Kingdom, First Night North is a cherished family tradition, drawing generations together year after year. Indeed, for many local families, an entire generation has been raised coming to First Night, and are now bringing their own children to the event. First Night North families know the special magic that comes with spending the first moments of every New Year among community.
First Night North is very much a community function, relying not only on regional performers, businesses, organizations, and vendors, but on a large and dedicated team of volunteers. Volunteers get free First Night admission in exchange for one two-hour shift.
For more information about First Night North 2024, including the complete schedule of performers and how to purchase admission or become a volunteer, visit www.firstnightnorth.org, call 802-748-2600, or visit Catamount Arts at their pop-up box office in the Caplan’s Building on Railroad Street. Buy admission buttons before Christmas to take advantage of early bird pricing.
Please be reminded that Catamount Arts’ Eastern Avenue building will remain closed through First Night, but buttons will be on sale that day at the info booth on Main and Eastern, St. Johnsbury School, and Catamount’s pop-up box office in the Caplan’s Building on Railroad Street.
Have you ever dreamt of playing detective in a stunning vintage mansion, surrounded by the beautiful mountains and valleys of Vermont? Put on your detective cap (and maybe even a flapper dress or pirate outfit!) because The Wilburton Destination Resort has an unmissable treat in store for you!
From November 10th to 12th, 2023, step into the spellbinding world of The Case of the Bridesmaid’s Revenge, the 10th annual Murder Mystery Weekend at the Wilburton. If you've got a penchant for intrigue and a thirst for adventure, this is a Vermont getaway that you simply cannot pass up.
Nestled atop a rolling hill with far-sweeping views of the valley beyond, The Wilburton Mansion isn't just your average lodging spot. With its rich history and architecture reminiscent of a 1902 Clue board, this luxe manor is straight out of an Agatha Christie novel. Whether you're soaking in the ambiance of its romantic guest rooms or sharing laughs with friends in the spacious, dog-friendly vacation homes, every corner whispers tales from the past, while enjoying all the modern conveniences and amenities befitting such a gorgeous locale.
Kick off your weekend by rubbing elbows with the "suspects" at a wine and cheese reception. Will the wine help loosen some secretive lips? Or perhaps the morning’s country inn breakfast, featuring divine pancakes and, of course, authentic VT maple syrup, will energize your detective senses.
If the mansion's allure doesn’t make you want to explore every hidden nook and cranny, then the guided sculpture tour at The Museum of the Creative Process certainly will. And as the sun sets, get ready for the main event – The Case of the Bridesmaid’s Revenge dinner party. While indulging in a sumptuous feast, piece together clues, navigate through interpersonal intricacies, and see if you can crack the case wide open!
The narrative is inspired by the real-life escapades of daring debutante, Louise Gilbert. Louise, tired of the monotony, yearns for a life less ordinary. But with a looming wedding, a groom gone AWOL, and possible bootleggers or pirates (yes, pirates!) in the mix, there's much more to the story than meets the eye. Will you uncover the truth?
Now, this isn’t just about playing detective. It’s also about doing it with style! Whether you're channeling your inner Hercule Poirot, dapper flapper, swashbuckling pirate, or wedding guest, make sure you're dressed to kill (pun intended). A professional photographer will be on the scene, capturing your most sleuth-y moments. And if you really nail your look, you might just snag a prize for best-dressed guest or group!
For a unique Vermont experience that combines the thrill of a mystery with the charm of a boutique getaway, [CLICK HERE TO RESERVE]. Questions? The Levis family are the most welcoming and hospitable innkeepers we’ve ever met - just a phone call away at (802) 362-2500.
This November, make memories, solve a murder, and immerse yourself in the luxurious Vermont vibe at The Wilburton's Murder Mystery Weekend. After all, some secrets are just waiting to be discovered!
Ah, Vermont during Foliage. Think picturesque landscapes, trees dripping with colors of burnt orange, golden yellow, and ruby red. Now, imagine soaring over these landscapes, feeling the rush of the cool autumn air on your face, and experiencing Vermont's famous Fall Foliage in the most thrilling way possible. Welcome to Bromley Resort's Mountain Adventure Park - where your leaf-peeping endeavors get the adrenaline injection they didn’t know they needed.
Ride the Slide:
Ever heard of an Alpine Slide? Bromley is not just any Alpine Slide; it’s North America's first triple-tracked one and still remains among the world's longest. That's a whopping 2/3 mile of exhilarating downhill adventure. Hold on tight, feel the rush, and let the colors of fall blur by.
Soar & Explore with the Scenic Chairlift Ride:
When people think chairlifts, snow-covered mountains and ski trails often come to mind. But during Foliage at Bromley Resort, the chairlift offers an entirely unique autumn experience. Open daily until October 9th, the Scenic Chairlift Ride transforms your leaf-peeping adventures into something straight out of a dream.
Why it’s a Must-Do:
So, if you're looking to experience Vermont's Fall Foliage in its full, glorious spectrum, Bromley Resort's Scenic Chairlift Ride is an adventure not to be missed. It's more than just a ride; it's a journey through the very heart of autumn.
But wait, there's more!
Get Swingin’:
Why admire the trees from the ground, when you can swing through them at nearly 40 mph? The Giant Swing stands as tall as a four-story building and offers views that’ll make you gasp in awe (or maybe that's just the 3G's of gravitational force).
The Mini Golf Glow-Up:
Recently revamped and better than ever, challenge your crew to a round of Mini Golf amidst the backdrop of Vermont's finest autumnal display.
Climb & Bounce:
For those who like their feet off the ground, Bromley's Climbing Wall and Trampoline Thing promise thrills of varying heights. Whether you're scaling new heights on the wall or bouncing your heart out, you're in for a treat.
Pedal into Space & Slide Down in Style:
With Space Bikes and the Spider Climb, defy gravity in ways you never imagined. Pedal upside down or scale a 30-foot inflatable slide - it's all in a day's adventure.
Zip through Autumn on the Sun Mountain Flyer:
New England's longest ZipRider, the Sun Mountain Flyer, is not just another zipline. It's an experience. Zip side-by-side with a friend, feel the rush of 50 MPH, and let Vermont's autumn splendor unfold beneath you.
Stay in Style at Bromley Village:
After a day of non-stop action, retreat to Bromley Village. Slopeside lodging, tastefully decorated condos, and a bunch of amenities await. Plus, if you're booking this season, there's a 15% discount with code BVSUMMER23. And guess what? Four FREE Scenic Lift Tickets are on the house!
Ready for the Ultimate Fall Foliage Adventure?
Look no further than Bromley Resort in Southern Vermont. Grab your tickets, pack that adventurous spirit, and let's turn leaf-peeping into an epic adventure.
Pro tip: Before heading out, call 802-824-5522 to check the schedule of the Scenic Chairlift and other attractions.
Ah, autumn in Vermont. A symphony of colors where every leaf plays its part, warm apple cider teases your taste buds, and the crisp mountain air whisks away your everyday worries. Now, imagine experiencing all of this not just anywhere, but at the epicenter of fall festivities: Stratton Mountain Resort. Whether you're an adventurer keen to ride the biking trails, a nature lover seeking the perfect foliage-viewing spot, or simply someone needing a break from the hustle, Stratton's HarvestFest is where you ought to be this season.
Ready to deep dive into this autumnal wonderland? Keep scrolling and let us entice you further. Because Stratton’s fall isn’t just a season; it’s an experience you'll cherish forever.
Date & Time:
Oct. 5, 2023 — Oct. 9, 2022
Mark those dates, folks. That’s five days, or 120 hours, or 7,200 minutes – however you wanna slice it, that's a hefty dose of fall fun. Clear your schedule, set your OOO (out of office, for those less acronym-savvy), and let’s get festive!
Brewfest 2023 is where you can sample Vermont's finest craft brews including ales, lagers, porters, sours, ciders, and more. As you savor every sip, let the live music at the outdoor stage from Dave Dominick, The Commonheart, and the Amish Outlaws serenade your ears, all while being surrounded by the mesmerizing peak fall foliage. Saturday's Brewfest promises a full day of enjoyment, starting from 11:30 AM and winding down by 6:00 PM. Be sure to leave room to dive into a bowl of chili at the annual Chili Cookoff and vote for the champion of your taste buds.
Dive deep into the nostalgia of the 80s with Start Making Sense, a masterful tribute to the iconic Talking Heads! Set against the scenic backdrop of Stratton's HarvestFest, groove to the rhythms of your favorite classics and as the evening sun bathes the mountain, let frontman Jon Braun transport you to the golden era of new-wave with his uncanny David Byrne performance.
Whether you're indulging in the melodies from Grizzly's exclusive Michelob Ultra Lounge (be sure to select this VIP Add-On at checkout) or soaking in the vibes at the main stage, this is the evening to "burn down the house" with fellow Talking Heads fans.
📍 Stratton Mountain Resort - Main Base Area
📅 October 8, 2023, 5:30 PM - 9:30 PM
🎟️ Grab your tickets and set the tempo right!
Here's the thing: a weekend like Stratton's HarvestFest is just too jam-packed with awesomeness to rush. You've got the Brewfest, soul-stirring live music, and let's not forget those Instagram-worthy Vermont fall foliage shots you've been dreaming of capturing. So take a break and make a weekend getaway of it with this lodging special.
Just for the HarvestFest Long Weekend, Stay two nights and get the third night 50% off! That right, snap up Sunday night for a song. Three total nights to revel in the fall festivities, right at the heart of the action. You're looking at a weekend filled with buddies and brews, melodies and memories, framed by a backdrop of the most stunning foliage you've ever seen. So, why wait?
Look, if you've never seen Vermont's fall foliage from the summit of its highest peak, you're missing out. Board the Gondola and be prepared to get your breath taken away, quite literally. The panoramic views stretch across four states – the White Mountains, Adirondacks, Berkshires, and Green Mountain ranges are all at your fingertips.
And if you're feeling particularly adventurous? Lace up those hiking boots and take to the trails, or maybe just lounge with a picnic lunch. Just remember, catch the last Gondola down by 4:45pm unless you fancy a full mountain descent - which honestly, is a pretty great time, too!
Close out the biking season with a bang! With over 10 miles of sinuous trails carved right into Vermont’s lush landscape, Stratton's Bike Park promises thrills with every turn. Whether you're a newbie or a seasoned pro, these trails, curated by the master trail builders at Sinuosity, beckon with the promise of adrenaline and adventure. And if you've been here before, come on back, because Stratton has been busy adding miles of new routes. Ready, set, ride!
Ever wished for a magic carpet? Well, UTVs are the next best thing! Dive into Stratton’s latest Foliage sensation – UTV Tours. Kick-off at the Sun Bowl, and then let the mountain paths guide you to the summit. Here's your moment for that jaw-dropping group selfie; just make sure you get first dibs on posting!
What is it like to golf at Stratton? How about twenty-seven holes of championship golf that's hosted LPGA tournaments? Three distinct 9-hole sections, be it Forest, Lake, or Mountain, offers a unique blend of challenge and charm. As Golf Magazine aptly puts it: “The golf is superb at this all-inclusive resort, which boasts a scenic and challenging championship 27-hole course that played host to six LPGA tournaments.”
Last but not least, if you really want to get up close and personal with Vermont’s fall colors, hit the trails at Stratton's HarvestFest. There’s something for every nature enthusiast, from laid-back strolls to challenging treks. Just pick a path, and let Vermont's autumnal beauty work its magic.
Look, there's a reason we can't stop raving about fall in Vermont, especially at Stratton's HarvestFest. It's not just about the brilliant hues of gold, crimson, and amber that paint our landscapes. Nor is it merely the rush of mountain biking, the thrills of ATV tours, or the serene moments on the golf course. It's about the entire experience – the blend of adventure, relaxation, and pure, unadulterated nature.
But here’s the clinker: reading about it is one thing, living it is another. And trust us, you don't want to be the person hearing about it from friends; you want to be the one sharing those incredible stories!
So dive deep into Vermont's fall magic and seize a weekend of memories waiting to be made. Click below, book your stay at Stratton, and transform your fall fantasies into vibrant, colorful realities.
See you on the mountain!
🍁Ready to Elevate Your Ski Experience? ok Your Stratton Getaway Now🍁: Book a stay for Friday and Saturday night, and add on Sunday night to your stay for 50% off of the nightly rate in select condos. Book Your Long Weekend at Stratton.
Fall Foliage in Vermont is more than just a season; it's a full-on experience. A mesmerizing display of vivid oranges, fiery reds, and sunlit yellows stretch as far as the eye can see, painting the canvas of the Green Mountain state. But where does one start to explore this autumnal wonderland? Enter Basin Harbor Resort, your ideal fall foliage basecamp.
Nestled amongst the serene shores of Lake Champlain, it's not just a luxurious lakefront haven but also your gateway to thrilling hikes, mouthwatering culinary delights, and that rejuvenating crisp, autumn air. Dive in to discover a Vermont adventure that promises memories and stories as vibrant as the foliage.
| Day | Highlights |
|---|---|
| Day 1 | Basin Harbor | Button Bay Trail | Snake Mountain |
| Day 2 | Mt. Philo | Shelburne Bay | Burlington OR Camel's Hump |
| Day 3 | Adirondack State Park |
Morning: After a relaxing night’s sleep at your lakefront cottage hideaway, you’ll be rested and ready for an early (yet leisurely) morning hike along the Button Bay trail. Following past the golf course, this 2+ mile excursion will bring you through vibrant forest trails to Button Bay Point where dramatic views of Lake Champlain and the foliage across the lake await. There are many opportunities to extend your morning hike with loops and trails leading throughout Basin Harbor’s stunning 700-acre property.
Once you make your way back to the cottage, it’s time to fuel up for breakfast/brunch at the unbelievable Ardelia’s breakfast buffet. Like everything at Basin Harbor, this buffet is comprised of quality ingredients and perfect presentation. We were particularly partial to the whipped ricotta crepes (with caramelized bananas!) and the chef-carved sea salt & maple candied bacon station. What a way to start the day!
Afternoon: After breakfast, it’s time for the second hike of the day (we have to burn off those crepe calories somehow). Twenty minutes down the road (we suggest taking Jersey Street to really capitalize on those Autumn views) in nearby Addison, VT, you’ll find Snake Mountain. Pay no attention to the name, we’ve yet to spot a snake while hiking here, instead, you’ll find peaceful wooded trails and sweeping summit views. There are several routes to choose from, but we suggest the West Trail to Hotel Overlook.
A four-mile out-and-back hike (~2.5 hours round trip), the trail up is moderately rated with one or two steeper areas, but primarily consisting of gradual and consistent elevation gains. As the name suggests, there was a stunning hotel at the top of the mountain at one point, but a fire in the mid-1920s left just the large foundation behind. This foundation is the perfect spot for a picnic or water break as there are many nooks and crannies to lean against and rest up for the hike back down. The views here are stunning and endless, as you look out onto Lake Champlain, local farmlands, and the Adirondacks below.
Post hike, it's time to hit the charming streets of Vergennes. Head back north (this time taking VT22-A) and you’ll find quaint village shops and delicious eateries around the central town green. Take a breather and dig into the culinary wonders at Vergennes Laundry. Part bakery/part café, with a dash of Montreal flair and French gourmet tradition. We usually like to give a specific recommendation on what to order, but quite honestly everything here is next-level delicious. Just a few doors up, be sure to visit some excellent boutiques, like The Joy Shop and Malabar, where take-home treasures abound.
Evening: When you’re planning on six hikes in three days, it’s important to take your downtime seriously. Luckily Basin Harbor has all your basecamp needs covered. Dinner reservations are waiting for you at Basin Harbor’s Red Mill, a renovated sawmill serving up local comfort foods, cold beers, and excellent cocktails. After dinner, you’ll find movie nights, bonfires, or calming lakefront strolls before hitting the hay for a great night's sleep.
Morning: A leisurely morning awaits, as you either grab a hot coffee and breakfast sandwich from Basin Habror’s Breezeway Cafe or hit up the breakfast buffet for round two (with all the options they have to choose from, there’s no way to have tried them all in just one go!).
After squaring away breakfast, head up Rt. 7 until you get to Mt. Philo State Park in Charlotte, VT. The perfect hike to start your day, Mt. Philo has several routes to the top, but we’ve always been fond of the Summit Trail from the lower parking lot. While steep in spots, the trail is well maintained and there are many great places to stop, rest, and enjoy being out in nature.
Massive boulders, winding trails, and secret turnoffs are all part of what you’ll find on the lower section of this trail, followed by a quick ascent up steep, yet fun, routes to the summit. Expect this 1.7 mile out and back trail to take roughly an hour and fifteen minutes round trip, but we absolutely suggest budgeting additional time to spend at the top. Long views of Lake Champlain, from beyond Basin Harbor to the south and past Burlington to the north, are always worth the extra time to appreciate.
Afternoon: After taking in Mt. Philo, you’ll continue heading north on Mt. Philo Road, which is particularly stunning this time of year. Winding country roads, with excellent views of Vermont Farmland and fall foliage can be found everywhere you look as you make your way to Philo Ridge Farm for an early lunch.
This 400-acre sustainable farm, cafe, and restaurant is one of our absolute favorite stops in the entire state, as their attention to detail and quality is top-notch. Farm-fresh, seasonal ingredients make the sandwiches, salads, and soups absolutely mouth-watering, and with the fall bounty recently harvested, you can rest assured that your lunch will be phenomenal.
Following lunch, drive north along Lake Champlain to the Shelburne Bay Loop at Shelburne Bay Park. Following the shores and rising above in dramatic fashion, you’ll find cliff faces looking towards both Burlington and back to the east, small bridges crossing babbling brooks, and gentle woodland paths. This 2.5-mile loop will take approximately an hour to complete, but if you want to continue the adventure, Shelburne Farms is just two minutes away where miles of additional trails can be found.
After hiking along the lake, it’s time to make your way to Burlington where you’ll find the many eclectic shops of Pine Street. We love stopping into The Soda Plant, a small business market collection featuring more than 40 studios, galleries, shops & services. You’ll also want to make a pit stop for a chocolate tasting at Lake Champlain Chocolates - who can resist?
Evening: As the sun sets, you’ll make your way to either Church Street Marketplace (a pedestrian-only street lined with restaurants, shops, galleries, and more) or to Waterfront Park (a Lake Champlain boardwalk with stunning views), for an evening stroll. After getting some air and seeing the sights, it’s time for dinner, and while there are many excellent options to choose from, we love the timeless classic American Flatbread.
Wood-fired pizzas served around multiple hearths, this warm and welcoming atmosphere is just what the end of day two’s adventure called for. All the pies here are excellent but we always seem to gravitate towards Punctuated Equilibrium (kalamata olives, roasted red peppers, fresh rosemary, red onions, Vermont creamery chevre, mozzarella, grana padano, fresh herbs) and Power to the People (chicken, buffalo sauce, red onions, carrots, blue cheese dressing, mozzarella, grana padano, fresh herbs).
Day 2 Alternative: Hinesburg
Now if you’re in the mood to kick things up a notch and really test your hiking mettle, this slightly more aggressive option is up to the challenge.
Morning-Afternoon: Breakfast this morning is at Three Squares Cafe in downtown Vergennes. As the power you need to conquer the peaks, it's best to eat up. Also, grab one of their sandwiches or burritos to-go as a summit meal refuel.
Afterward, you’ll be heading east to Huntington, VT to find the third-highest mountain in the state, Camel’s Hump. Appropriately named as you'll see, Camel’s Hump is a challenging hike and a ton of fun, so bring extra water. A six-mile out-and-back hike, Camel’s Hump will make your legs burn and your heart pound, but the steep path up is packed with scenic lookouts and unique natural features that bring you above the treeline.
The summit scenery is certainly the payoff as on a clear day, the foliage views that await are nothing short of breathtaking. With 360º panoramas, the mountains and the trees below are filled with vibrant reds, oranges, greens, and yellows that would make any painter proud.
Evening: After your four-and-a-half-hour adventure, you’ve earned some well-deserved R&R back at Basin Harbor. Take in the sunset at your cottage and catch up on some reading, make the most out of their hot tubs and pool, or enjoy a pre-dinner cocktail at the Champlain Lounge.
No matter which route you take, be sure to find your way to Ardelia’s for dinner as Chef Chris Bonniver has prepared an unbelievable Fall Dinner Menu. From 24hr Slow Roasted Bone-In Short Rib (charred sweet onion soubise, porcini mushroom, olive oil marcona almond, hakurei turnip, coca nib, and sorrel) to Kabocha Squash Ravioli (brown butter, crispy sage, confit cranberry, caramelized walnuts, salsify, mascarpone cheese, and fig), and Scuttleship Farm Lamb Shank (white beans, garlic sausage, escarole, roasted peppers, preserved lemon, arugula chimichurri, and Lucques olive vinaigrette) - your dinner will be just as sensational as the views from your hike.
Now we know that this is a Vermont-centric guide, but one of the amazing things about having Basin Harbor as your foliage home-base is their proximity to Adirondack State Park.
Morning: After a quick breakfast sammie from Breezeway Cafe, it’s time to head out on a guided tour of the largest park in the United States, which just so happens to be across the lake. A short, scenic boat ride on Basin Harbor's EScape brings you to a cliffside cove where you’ll head out into the park for a hike amongst the pristine landscape. A moderately difficult hike, you can expect winding trails through deep forest paths, and gorgeous fall scenery on this hour-and-a-half day-hike. As you head back across the lake, take in the views of Basin Harbor from this vantage point, as it has welcomed visitors from near and far to enjoy foliage in Vermont for five generations.
Afternoon: It’s time to check out and reflect on the simultaneously relaxing and adventurous time you’ve spent amongst the Green Mountain foliage. From fine dining to mountain-top picnics, casual waterfront strolls to thrilling, heart-pounding expeditions, boutique shopping to hot-tub decompressing - this has been a trip to remember and be proud of.
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Fall into Foliage: To book your own Autumn Adventure and enjoy discounted room rates of up to 35% off during most weekdays, make Basin Harbor your Fall Foliage basecamp and find your cottage now.
All listings featured on Vermont.com are independently selected by our editors. If you book or purchase something through our links, we may earn an affiliate commission - which in turn helps support our work - so, thank you!
Hey there, leaf peepers and cozy cabin lovers! When the calendar flips to fall, there's nothing quite like a Vermont Fall Getaway to sweep you off your feet and fill your Instagram feed with envy-inducing snapshots. It’s not an exaggeration when we say that the whole state turns into a jaw-dropping canvas of reds, oranges, and golds that screams 'road trip' louder than a car packed with excited weekend warriors.
But where to stay during this foliage getaway? The stunning selection of cabins and cottages below are sprinkled throughout Vermont's picturesque locales and set in charming little havens nestled among trees that are practically on fire with autumn hues, (not to mention featuring amenities that make you feel right at home amidst the great outdoors)!
Stick with us as we dig into the most Insta-worthy cabins and cottages that you've got to check into this fall. We're diving deep into what makes each spot unique, from sipping morning coffee with panoramic views to snuggling up in the coziest corners that Vermont has to offer. So grab a hot cup of cider, and let’s get this leaf-peeping party started!
Where do we even start? Vermont is like stepping into a live-action painting once fall rolls around. Trees practically competing to show off their best reds and oranges, while the mountains play backdrop to your personal autumn movie. And those crystal-clear lakes reflecting the fiery foliage? It’s nothing short of amazing. So, if you're looking to bask in Mother Nature's best show, you'd better believe the Green Mountain State has got front-row tickets with your name on it.
But it’s not all about sitting back and enjoying the view – though, we wouldn’t blame you if that's your jam - Vermont has this incredible knack for serving up a smorgasbord of adventures, from hiking trails that lead to jaw-dropping vistas, to mountain biking and cycling routes that offer the freshest of air and the cleanest of lines. And when the sun dips low, how about unwinding at a cabin with a hot tub waiting to soak your worries away? Whether you’re an adrenaline junkie or a chill-seeker, Vermont’s fall season is your playground.
Okay, here’s the cherry on top: these drop-dead gorgeous spots are just a hop, skip, and a jump away from major cities. We're talking easy-breezy drives from New York City or Boston. Imagine swapping the concrete jungle for a foliage-rich paradise in just a few hours, making it the ultimate weekend retreat. Plus, with scenic drives that have you reaching for your camera at every turn, getting there is half the fun! So, rev up those engines and hit the road because Vermont is ready to welcome you with open arms and vibrant views!
Without further ado, here's our handpicked list of the top Cabin and Cottage Getaways for a magical Vermont Fall Foliage experience.
Location: Nestled in the heart of Stowe, Vermont, The Summit House promises an unforgettable retreat just a mile away from the bustling downtown. Whether you're here to gaze at the phenomenal fall foliage or to catch the morning light filtering through the forest right from your bedroom, this prime location got you covered. Seriously, a 5-star rating from 95% of recent guests can't be wrong!
Amenities: Step inside and prepare to be wowed. This isn't just a cabin, it's a haven of modern comfort blended with rustic charm. Picture yourself unwinding by the modern wood-burning fireplace, a cool drink in hand, and your favorite shows playing on a massive 50" TV. And that spa-style rainfall shower? Pure bliss after a day exploring the mountains. With the convenience of self-check-in and an array of top-notch amenities including a fully equipped kitchen and WiFi, you're all set for a cushy stay. And let's not forget the private patio, where you can kick back and soak in the gorgeous views.
Activities: When you're not lounging around enjoying the chic interiors, the vibrant town of Stowe offers a treasure trove of experiences. Get ready to explore the charming downtown brimming with quaint shops and cafes or venture out on a myriad of heart-pumping hikes to take in the awe-inspiring fall foliage that the region is renowned for.
Rates: Planning to hole up in this slice of paradise? It's going to set you back about $533 per night. But trust us, for a getaway that promises not just a stay but an exceptional experience, it's totally worth it. Plus, with rave reviews and a near-perfect rating, you know you're in for a treat!
Location: Get ready for a distinctive lakeside escape that screams personality at every turn. Situated on the picturesque banks of Lake Champlain, Basin Harbor is a sprawling paradise that offers not one, not two, but a whopping 74 unique cottage choices for your very own slice of lakeside bliss during your Vermont Fall Getaway.
Amenities: Bid goodbye to the cookie-cutter vacation experience and say hello to a place that embraces individuality and charm. Each cottage at Basin Harbor is a testament to creativity and personal taste, boasting distinctive layouts, decor, and features that echo the golden days when families would send in their own specs and designs for a personalized lakeside oasis. But don't fret, modernity has graced Basin Harbor too, with a slew of renovations that bring in contemporary comfort without compromising the unique charm of each cottage.
Activities: Ready to embrace the outdoors? Basin Harbor is your playground! Spread across 700 acres of pristine tranquility, this is where adventure meets relaxation. Tee off at the golf club, dip into the heated outdoor pool, or indulge in a spirited game of pickleball or croquet on the perfectly manicured courts and lush lawns. Oh, and your furry best friend? They're going to have the time of their life at Fanny's Beach, a dedicated doggy swim area.
Rates: For the specifics on rates, check out Basin Harbor’s online reservation platform, or better yet, give their friendly front-desk a call to help set up a personalized pick that suits your style and budget. Trust us, diving into the details is part of the fun here!
Location: We know what you're here for - those lush multi-colored mountains and that crisp Vermont air! Nestled in the rustic embrace of Granville, this snug loft offers the perfect vantage point to soak in all of that majestic beauty and more. Picture yourself amidst the natural wonders, just a stone's throw away from exhilarating hiking, biking, and kayaking adventures.
Amenities: When it comes to comfort, this great loft doesn't hold back. Though compact, the space radiates an enormous charm and coziness, thanks to the mini-fireplace/stove that warms up your space after a thrilling day outdoors. And can we talk about those copper countertops and handrails?
Activities: Your schedule here could be a whirlwind of outdoor adventures or a tranquil retreat amidst nature - the choice is yours! Either way, you've got hiking and biking options galore mere minutes from your front door. And once back, why not enjoy a warm soak in the hot tub while drinking in the expansive views from the patio or the upper deck? Remember, the breathtaking vistas are a part of the package!
Rates: Ready to whisk your significant other for a memory-making escape? The price is just as cozy as the loft itself, at an average of $206 per night. Trust us, this little haven is big on exceptional experiences without breaking the bank.
Location: Welcome to your secluded retreat in the woods of Southern Vermont! Just imagine, being fully immersed in nature with 17 vertical feet of floor-to-ceiling windows, offering you an uninterrupted view of the forest canopy. And don’t worry about missing out on nearby attractions, with Bromley Mountain’s Adventure Park just a 15-minute drive away and vibrant Manchester within a 25-minute drive, boasting fine dining and delightful spas.
Amenities: "Tiny" doesn't mean compromising on luxury! This tiny home has everything you need for a cozy and indulgent stay. Cook up a storm in the full kitchen, enjoy movie nights with the in-home theater, and let your worries melt away in the expansive 71-inch soaking tub.
Activities: Whether you're hiking peaks and valleys at nearby state parks or exploring apple orchards and mountain biking parks within a 20-minute radius, there's no end to the adventures that await. And after a day of exploring, return to your private sanctuary nestled amidst the trees, providing the perfect blend of relaxation and rejuvenation.
Rates: Ready for a luxury retreat without the luxury price tag? This unique getaway is all yours for an average of $275 per night. Considering the one-of-a-kind experience you’re set to have, it’s an absolute steal!
Location: Just 20 minutes away from the Sugarbush Resort, this gem is tucked away in the serene embrace of Roxbury, VT. With 330 acres of woods surrounding you, lovebirds seeking a cozy nest during their Vermont Fall Getaway have hit the jackpot. Picture yourselves waking up to the gentle rays of the morning sun, exploring the walking trails, and maybe even engaging in a bit of impromptu birdwatching.
Amenities: Leave the chaos of the city behind and step into a world where modern comforts and rustic charm meet. From the cuddly leather loveseat to a fully equipped kitchen where you can whip up some breakfast with the complimentary local eggs and homemade preserves, this cabin is a slice of heaven. And the cherry on top?
Activities: Whether it's a BBQ session on your sunny deck, cozying up by your very own fire pit, or venturing out to nearby attractions like the Warren Covered Bridge or hiking trails, adventure is just around the corner. And with the Mad River Valley offering an array of activities, your getaway can be as laid-back or action-packed as you want!
Rates: Planning a romantic escapade has never been this rewarding. For an average price of $185 per night, you can unlock the doors to this paradise, where every moment is a memory in the making. Go ahead, treat yourselves to a vacation that’s a perfect blend of luxury and nature.
Location: Ready for a fall vacation that's all about vibrant foliage, private beaches, and sunset campfires? Say hello to your dream getaway nestled in Vergennes, right on the magnificent shores of Lake Champlain. Picture yourself having a laid-back morning with views of the Adirondack mountains, or perhaps, embarking on a historic journey with a short drive to Chimney Point State Historic Site. And hey, if you're into birdwatching or game walks, the surrounding area is your playground.
Amenities: Welcome to your "large" tiny house that's packed with all the comforts of a home and then some. Let's talk about those bedroom lofts, each boasting a comfy queen bed promising restful slumbers amidst the serene surroundings. Plenty of room for everyone!
Activities: The cabin itself is an adventure waiting to happen. Venture down simple paths leading to spectacular overlooks of the lake, relax in the hammock or get your adrenaline rushing with some kayaking - the choice is yours. Not to forget, the private shale beach beckoning you for some sun-soaking sessions if the weather is cooperative. Working remotely? The fiber-optic WiFi has your back, allowing you to stay connected amidst nature.
Rates: Gear up for a stay that won't break the bank, with prices averaging at $345 per night. Considering the private beach access, well-appointed interiors, and the pristine location, we'd say it's a steal. And remember, the vibrant colors of Vermont in autumn are priceless!
Location: Picture this: You're perched on a hill just a smidge away from the vibrant heart of downtown Stowe, enveloped in the sounds of Vermont trees and nature. Sound surreal? Welcome to The Canopy House, your gateway to the very best of Vermont's breathtaking fall foliage, a mere hop, skip, and a jump from the bustling Main Street of Stowe and only 9 miles away from Stowe Mountain Resort. But hey, it's not just about the spectacular views; you've got the von Trapp's lively brewery scene just 5 miles away and hiking trail options galore for all those autumn escapades.
Amenities: Step into an oasis that marries modern luxury with rustic elegance. The Canopy House is where your comfort meets style, boasting amenities that cater to both relaxation seekers and tech-savvy travelers. Lounging in a living room adorned with OM Home Furniture while enjoying the warmth of a crackling fire? Yes, please! And we haven't even gotten started on the six-person hot tub under the starry Vermont sky!
Rates: Fancy a stay at this enchanting retreat? It's yours for a stellar rate of $464 per night. With a 4.93 rating from a whopping 279 reviews, it's clear that guests find value in every dime spent here.
Location: The Trout Cabin is your tranquil log cabin set amidst the lush greenery of Londonderry, VT, with Magic Mountain practically at your doorstep and the shimmering trout pond just a stone's throw away. Whether you're a hiking enthusiast eager to hit the trails or someone looking for a quiet refuge, this cabin, minutes from Magic Mountain Resort (and the famous Black Line Tavern) and a 4-minute drive from the Lowell Lake State Park, has got all bases covered.
Amenities: We're talking rustic vibes with all the comfort of home. The cabin comes equipped with a cozy kitchen area housing a stovetop, microwave, and coffee maker - all ready for you to whip up some homely meals. And don't forget about the BBQ set up outside for some grilling fun. For those chilly nights, the fireplace indoors promises warm and snug evenings. And get this, if you’re up for the adventure, you can enjoy a refreshing outdoor shower with a stunning view of the Green Mountains to boot!
Activities: Now, this is where the fun begins. Get ready to dive into a world of adventure with hiking trails and mountain biking just a walk away. And for the angling aficionados, your very own trout pond is waiting for a session of fly fishing. Fancy a quiet day instead? The porch facing the pond promises serene moments amidst nature. Trust us, with an almost perfect score of 4.9 out of 5, you're gearing up for an exceptional stay.
Rates: Ready to nab that September special with a cool 15% off on mid-week bookings? It's all about seizing the moment here. The prices are a steal, especially when you consider the wealth of experiences awaiting you.
Location: Ah, Eden, Vermont, the place where dreams come true, especially at this teeny tiny cottage nestled right on the water's edge of Lake Eden. Imagine waking up to serene beachfront views, just a stone's throw from the sparkling lake that beckons you for a morning swim. And when it's time to venture out, you're just minutes away from attractions like the Green River Reservoir State Park and a hop, skip, and jump from downtown Stowe. Your scenic adventure in the Northeast Kingdom awaits!
Amenities: This one-room cozy paradise packs a punch when it comes to amenities. Offering everything you need to make your stay comfortable and memorable - a fully-furnished kitchen, a snazzy corner shower, and even an incinerating toilet. Settle down in the living area, with a foldable table set for four and enjoy your meals with a panoramic view. Did we mention the loft that houses a king-size bed and a TV equipped with a VCR for a nostalgic movie night? You're all set!
Activities: Whether you're here for the summer splash or winter wonder, this cottage has got you covered. Dive into a plethora of water activities with kayaks, paddle boats, and canoes available for rent. Picture yourself gliding through the lake, basking in the sun, and taking in the scenic vistas.
Rates: Here comes the sweet part - not only does this little retreat offer a tranquil getaway, but it also doesn't break the bank. Head on over to the booking platform, and make sure to glance through the hospitality welcome guide section "essentials" to get all the deets on what you need to bring along. Your perfect vacation is just a click away!
Location: Cradled amidst the scenic beauty of the “Golden Triangle” of Southern Vermont, Seesaw's Lodge is your ticket to a breathtaking retreat that brilliantly blends the old Vermont world charm with modern luxuries. Imagine gazing at the spectacular mountain views and soaking up the warm southern exposure right from your snug cabin or the expansive seven-bedroom lodge. Yes, this is real, and it's all set to welcome you for an unforgettable Vermont Fall Getaway.
Amenities: Step into any of the recently rebuilt cabins, and you'll be greeted with spaces that exude warmth and comfort. Think living rooms flaunting exposed beams, mud rooms with floors radiating heat, and kitchens brimming with modern amenities for a seamless stay. Relaxing by the gas fireplace or taking in the cool Vermont air from your private deck balcony. And guess what? Each unit promises high-speed wifi, air-conditioning, and large smart TVs to keep you entertained throughout.
Activities: Whether you're meandering through the scenic paths at Mad Tom Orchard, or catching the panoramic vistas from Stratton Resort’s gondola, the local experiences here are nothing short of magical. Kids and adults alike will love the vibrant corn mazes and pumpkin patches at Equinox Valley Nursery - don't forget to snag a fresh apple cider donut while you're there! And when it comes to dining, Johnny Seesaw's Restaurant on site is a meal to remember, dishing out comfort food with a fresh Vermont twist. Trust us, it's a culinary journey you don't want to miss.
Rates: The rates here vary depending on the season and the type of accommodation you choose. But rest assured, the unique blend of vintage charm and modern comfort at Seesaw's Lodge offers bang for your buck. For the most accurate pricing, check out their official website or give them a ring.
Location: Nestled in the serene setting of Castleton, VT, this lakefront retreat known as "Blues Views" stands as your private gateway to the alluring waters and majestic nature vistas of Vermont.
Amenities: Imagine stepping into a home that blends the charm of the 1920s with the modern comforts of today. This dog-friendly sanctuary boasts a full suite of amenities, including a cozy sunroom perfect for late-afternoon chit-chats, a well-equipped kitchen to whip up your culinary delights, and central AC to keep you cool when the leaf-peeping adventure heats up. And don't forget about that high-speed WiFi, keeping you connected for all your streaming and social media needs.
Activities: It's all about lakeside bliss at the Blues Views. From boating to fishing, biking to hiking, an array of activities awaits you just a few miles from your home base. And with picturesque lake views gracing almost every room, you'll have the perfect backdrop for all your vacation selfies and group photos. Trust us, your Instagram feed has never looked this good!
Rates: The rate details are as dynamic as your vacation plans, so just hop on over to the site, plug in your preferred dates, and hit 'Book Now' to get an accurate quote. Oh, and if you're bringing along your furry friend, rest easy knowing the nightly pet fee is included in your quote.
Location: Calling Montpelier home, this delightful Vermont Cottage is nothing short of a fairy tale waiting to unfold for couples. Nestled snugly amidst Vermont's lush foliage, you are just a short drive away from cultural gems like the Vermont Historical Society Museum and the illustrious golden-domed Vermont State House. Oh, and for those scenic walks you've been dreaming about? Hubbard Park is just 10 minutes away, making those impromptu picnics amidst nature a total breeze!
Amenities: From the second you step in, the cozy allure of this one-bedroom haven wraps you in a warm embrace. This isn't just a stay, it's an escape into a world where modern comfort meets rustic charm. Whether it's the free WiFi keeping you connected or the air conditioning ensuring you're always the perfect temp, this cottage is equipped to pamper. And let's not forget the outdoor space - think morning coffee sessions on the deck, or crisp romantic dinners in the lanai. Sounds dreamy, right?
Activities: When it comes to keeping yourself engaged, the area around Montpelier is a treasure trove of wonders. Dive deep into Vermont's rich history with a visit to the nearby museums or simply grab a pair of comfortable shoes for a romantic stroll in Hubbard Park.
Rates: Looking to score the ultimate romantic getaway? Starting at $225 per night this is a steal! With an exceptional 5/5 rating, this slice of paradise offers you not just a stay, but memories that you'll both adore.
Location: Tucked away in the heart of Londonderry, this modern A-Frame chalet is your gateway to Vermont's vibrant foliage season. Ready to taste some of the best local cheeses and veggies? Taylor Farm is just a breezy 10-minute walk from your doorstep.
Amenities: Once you step inside, it's all about laid-back luxury. The chalet comes kitted out with everything you need for a home-away-from-home experience. Picture yourself waking up in one of the three sumptuous bedrooms, brewing a cup of coffee in the private kitchen, and enjoying breakfast with a view on the deck or patio.
Activities: Beyond the confines of this comfy retreat, Londonderry charms with its natural beauty and vibrant community vibes. Whether it's a tranquil walk along the West River, a bit of weekend shopping at the nearby Manchester Designer Outlets, or a delicious visit to Honey Pie, there's something for everyone.
Rates: Ready to snag this comfy corner for your next getaway? $500 per night seems more than doable for this three-bedroom beauty!
Before you dash off to capture the golden hues of Vermont’s picturesque foliage season, we've got a few tidbits to make your getaway nothing short of perfect. Here’s the low-down on the best times to witness the state's vibrant fall canvas and some packing tips to keep your adventure comfy and fun. Trust us, a well-planned trip is the first step to an unforgettable Vermont vacation!
Let's talk timing. To catch Vermont in its full fall glory, you'd want to mark your calendars for late September to early October. Now of course, this is not an exact science, as depending on weather and temperature each year’s foliage progression may differ, but if you want to make the best bet, these are the times we aim for. You can always stay up to date with our Fall Foliage Report for more in-depth progress.
Alright, onto the packing game. Vermont's autumn has that crisp, cool air that brings out the adventurer in everyone, but when the sun is shining things can get pretty toasty. Here’s what you should toss in that suitcase:
1. Layers, Layers, Layers: Think cozy sweaters or flannels, light jackets, and scarves (we’ve been loving our new foliage-hued flannel from Howler Brothers!) The temperatures can be quite the chameleon, shifting from chilly mornings to warm afternoons.
2. Footwear: Trust us, you'd want to bring your comfiest pair of hiking boots or sturdy sneakers, perfect for those foliage walks or a spontaneous mountain hike.
3. Outdoor Gear: Planning to immerse yourself in the outdoor offerings? Don’t forget to pack binoculars for bird watching, or maybe a portable hammock to really soak in those scenic vistas.
Ready to roll? Your Vermont fall adventure awaits, packing in a world of vibrant colors, leisurely outdoor pursuits, and memories that'll last a lifetime. Let's make it one for the books!
So, gear up, adventure seekers! Vermont is laying out the red (and orange, and yellow) carpet, beckoning you to an autumnal extravaganza that's nothing short of legendary. This isn't just a vacation, it's a recharge, a revitalization, and a chance to nab the best fall selfies to spice up your feed. Let's make those weekend plans a riot of hues and fun. From rustic cabins to lakeside frolics, it's all waiting for you in good ol' Vermont. Go on, seize the season and book your quintessential fall retreat, Vermont style!
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Got your own leaf-peeping adventures or snapped some vibrant vistas? We're all in to hear and see it! Shoot us your stories at [email protected] or share them on your socials with #WeAreVermont. Let's keep the Vermont vibe rolling and the adventure chronicles coming.
Till then, keep the wanderlust alive and the cameras ready. See you amongst the leaves!
Hey there, fellow procrastinators - our time to shine has finally arrived. Forget your buddies who’ve been bragging about their Labor Day plans since the snow melted. Trust us; the best trips are the ones you didn’t overthink. So grab your weekender bag and hit the road because we've got your last-minute guide to make this Labor Day in Vermont an unforgettable one.
Vergennes, VT
Starting at $300/night
Basin Harbor just about screams serenity (but not in a Frank Costanza-kind of way). Nestled along the shoreline of Lake Champlain, this idyllic resort takes “lakeside living” to a whole new level. It offers private cottages, lakefront dining and activities, and an 18-hole golf course. For the perfect mix of R&R and aquatic activities, make Basin Harbor your go-to escape.
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
Starting at $189/night
Stepping into the Grafton Inn is like entering a time capsule, but with WiFi and heavenly modern-day luxuries. Situated in one of the prettiest towns in Vermont, this Inn has been in operation since 1801. What it lacks in hustle and bustle, it makes up for with timeless charm. Don’t miss the cheese-tasting tour at Grafton Village Cheese, which—spoiler alert—is ridiculously delicious. End the day with a nature walk at the nearby Grafton Trails & Outdoor Center.
What guests are saying: “This is the perfect place to go to unwind and get away. We loved everything about this place. The entire staff was amazing. Mercedes, Issy, Lisa, Luna, Joanne, Kirk, Angela, are just a few names I remember. All were helpful, friendly and are a great team together. The grounds are clean with a beautiful surrounding. We stayed in the Wydham Cottage across the street from the main Inn. We were right by the entrance door and didn't hear anyone coming or going during our stay. There is fresh baked pastries in the morning and afternoon in the main office area. The breakfast and dinners were superb! Outstanding food! ”
Killington, VT
Starting at $263/night
Meet "The Wobbly Cabin"—where rustic mountain allure meets modern-day comforts. Nestled in the heart of Killington, Vermont, this 2-bedroom, 1.5-bathroom haven is so close to Killington Resort, you can practically smell the alpine air from your porch. If you're planning a last-minute Labor Day Weekend getaway, this spot has you covered with outdoor grills, scenic mountain views, and room for up to six guests.
Fairlee, VT
Starting at $157/night
If paddleboarding at sunrise and roasting s’mores by a campfire at night sound like your ideal Labor Day, add Lake Morey Resort to your list. Located in serene Fairlee, VT, it captures the essence of the Green Mountain State in one sprawling property. Don’t miss the chance to kayak in the still waters; it’s the kind of tranquility you can’t put a price on.
What guests are saying: “I love Lake Morey!! Women's getaway weekend was AWESOME!! the food is mouth watering OMG good. Been going 16 years and hope to be going 16 more!”
Manchester, VT
Starting at $311/night
With a dash of old-world charm and a sprinkle of Vermont splendor, Wilburton Inn makes for a lovely Labor Day pitstop. It offers stunning views of the Taconic Mountain range and Battenkill Valley. Make sure you check out the sculpture garden—because how many hotels have an art installation on the grounds? For dinner, enjoy farm-to-table dining at the inn’s restaurant, sourcing veggies straight from the Wilburton Farm.
What guests are saying: “What a magical place! We loved staying at the Wilburton, nestled above the crowds of Manchester, but minutes away from it all. Our stay in the Innkeeper’s Cottage was wonderful, with unparalleled mountain views. We loved touring the sculpture gardens and walking the woods with our dog. And the inn owners could not have been lovelier! Our new favorite place to stay.”
Essex, VT
Starting at $181/night
Ah, The Essex Resort and Spa, where you can have your cake and eat it too—literally. This place isn't just a resort; it’s a culinary experience. Take a cooking class at the Cook Academy or savor gourmet dining at Junction. For the non-foodies, the Spa at The Essex offers massages, facials, and treatments that'll have you considering whether you really need to go back to work.
What guests are saying: “My husband and I came for a weekend getaway here and we were not disappointed at all. The accommodations were great, the food was delicious, and our spa treatment was incredibly relaxing. The staff is very friendly and helpful, and the staff at the restaurant always made us feel welcome. The grounds are also very beautiful, I would definitely recommend it to anyone who's looking for a Vermont vacation!”
Stratton, VT
Starting at $145/night
If you’re all about seizing the day—and the mountain—Stratton Mountain Resort is your playground. Sure, it's best known for skiing, but summer turns this mountain escape into a dreamy haven of hiking trails and gondola rides. And let’s talk about the Stratton Mountain Music concert series: imagine a blend of blues, soul, and a dash of folk against a panoramic mountain backdrop. Honestly, could it get any better? For an extra dash of adventure, throw in mountain biking or take an off-road ATV tour. Procrastination never felt so rewarding.
What guests are saying: “Stratton has always been a joy to visit for me. It has its own little village and lots of housing ops, nice condos, older condos, and hotel rooms!”
Colchester, VT
Starting at $1678/night
As Labor Day weekend approaches, you may be yearning for that one last summer escape. Look no further than this luxurious 4-bedroom, 2.5-bathroom sanctuary on the shores of Lake Champlain in Colchester, Vermont. With a capacity to sleep up to 8 people, this modern lake getaway offers everything you need for a memorable Labor Day weekend retreat.
Dorset, VT
Starting at $300/night
If you’ve ever fantasized about living in a Hallmark movie village, this adorable cottage in Dorset is your chance. The décor is dreamy, the amenities are top-notch, and the location? Well, it’s unbeatable. You’re not just in Dorset Village; you’re at the heart of it all. This cottage combines luxury with convenience; you’ll have access to a fireplace, air conditioning, and a kitchen that's ready for cooking up your favorite end-of-summer dishes. Step out, and you're minutes away from everything you could want—from fabulous food to local shops and galleries. It’s the perfect way to cap off your summer, right when the early fall foliage starts to hint at the change of seasons.
What guests are saying: “We thoroughly enjoyed our stay and found the location to be perfect for our needs! The space comfortably fit two couples and had ample parking. We were in town for a wedding and enjoyed the close proximity to the wedding venue, the Dorset farmers market, the Dorset Bakery (right across the street), and a short drive to Manchester. Very clean and comfy - all of the creature comforts you need.”
Jeffersonville, VT
Starting at $399/night
Smugglers Notch is the one-stop shop for families looking to milk every last drop of summer. The FunZone 2.0 Family Fun Complex is perfect for kids and adults who refuse to grow up. With mini golf, obstacle courses, and giant slides, you’ll be begging for bedtime.
What guests are saying: “Smugglers Notch Resort is the perfect getaway for a family. They had plenty of things for my preteen to do as well as my toddler. The rental homes are well equipped with everything you could need during your stay and the Country Store offers all the snacks, wine, beer and essentials that may be needed. The Refuel Cafe was a much needed break from the fun at Funzone and the Green Mountain deli was great for mornings that I didn't want to cook breakfast. My favorite part was the Mountainside pool that offered a fun safe water play area for my little guy. We will definitely make this a yearly trip.”
Warren, VT
Starting at $1300/night
Tired of cramped spaces and cookie-cutter holiday rentals? Look no further than this lavish 4-bedroom, 3-bathroom sanctuary for an unforgettable Labor Day experience. Situated in Warren, Vermont, just minutes from the famed Sugarbush Ski Resort, this Architect-designed, Mid-Century Modern gem accommodates up to 10 guests and offers a slew of high-end amenities that make it the perfect last-minute Labor Day hideaway for large groups or families.
Manchester Center, VT
Starting at $155/night
From fly fishing to falconry, Equinox Resort offers a refined take on Vermont’s outdoor offerings. Experience guided tours of the Equinox Preservation Trust, 914 acres of protected wilderness. Hit the links at the legendary championship golf course, where even the hazards look beautiful. After a day of luxury, sip on some cocktails at Falcon Bar. Now that's how to spend Labor Day in style.
What guests are saying: “What a quaint resort with lots of history. Golf course and a couple of restaurants are within walking distance. We went into town and enjoyed the glass blowing experience. The chop house was delicious. Sitting on the front porch in the rockers and watch life go by was relaxing. ”
Braintree, VT
Starting at $140/night
Look, when you stay at a hotel, you're a guest. When you stay at this Historic Schoolhouse in Braintree, you're a time traveler—with WiFi. Immerse yourself in 19th-century nostalgia as you chalk up your dreams on the original blackboards, but don't fret—your Instagram game will remain strong thanks to the high-speed fiber-optic internet. Ideal for couples or a group of four, this place is a lesson in rural elegance.
Stowe, VT
Starting at $1000/night
We all know that Labor Day is the perfect time to gather your loved ones and escape to the mountains, right? And what better place to do so than in this lavish 4-bedroom, 4.5-bathroom mountain cabin located at The Lodge at Spruce Peak in Stowe, Vermont? Sleeping up to 10 people, this spacious and fully-equipped property is an idyllic last-minute Labor Day getaway destination.
What guests are saying: “The renters were so easy to work with and very responsive at all stages of the rental process. This unit is even better than it looks in the photos. Well equipped kitchen, bathrooms, everything we needed was provided. Would absolutely stay here again! Great for adults or families.”
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So there it is. Last-minute doesn’t have to mean second-best, and with Vermont’s lush landscapes and luxury digs, your Labor Day plans just went from zero to hero. Ready to make that last-minute booking? We thought so.
Happy Labor Day, you savvy spontaneous traveler, you.
If you’re in Southern Vermont this late summer, prepare to be enchanted by the raw power of nature and the timeless beauty of Shakespearean drama, all in one place. Shakespeare in the Woods (SitW), a cutting-edge outdoor theatre company, is thrilled to present its upcoming season of productions with "Hamlet" and "The Tempest" running from August 23rd to September 10th, hosted at the Northshire Civic Center - Riley Rink at Hunter Park in Manchester (and at the New England Youth Theatre campus in Brattleboro).
Founded in 2019, SitW is not your ordinary theatre company. This trailblazing group aims to deliver a professional caliber celebration of classical text through a modern, socially aware lens. SitW productions seamlessly blend the beauty of Vermont’s natural landscape with thought-provoking performances, striving for harmony with nature rather than imposing upon it. This creates an ethereal stage that connects the audience, the actors, and the environment in a way that’s intimate, immersive, and deeply meaningful.
At the core of SitW's mission is inclusivity and social awareness. The productions aim to engage audiences from all walks of life—whether you're a local or a visitor, young or old, an aficionado of the arts or a first-timer. Their goal is to make theatre accessible to all, regardless of socioeconomic or geographical standing. Special attention is also given to educational outreach, engaging younger generations of Vermonters in the performing arts right in their backyard.
The productions will run for three weeks at the Northshire Civic Center - Hunter Park, located at 410 Hunter Park Road, Manchester Center, VT.
All performances start at 7:30 PM unless otherwise noted, and seating is provided. The shows will go on, rain or shine!
SitW offers a sliding scale ticket model to make theatre accessible for everyone. If you find the ticket pricing prohibitive, you're encouraged to contact SitW at [email protected] to discuss other options.
Theatre has the power to provoke thought, stir emotions, and offer an escape from the everyday. SitW’s approach to classical theatre through a modern and socially relevant lens ensures you leave not just entertained, but also enlightened. It’s an experience that promises to be as unique as it is transformative.
So, seize this unique opportunity and lose yourself in the tales of betrayal, revenge, and redemption—all while being surrounded by the stunning natural beauty of Southern Vermont!
The Play's the Thing: Discover the magic of live theatre combined with Vermont’s natural beauty. Shakespeare in the Woods presents "Hamlet" and "The Tempest" from August 23rd to September 10th. Book your tickets now!
Labor Day Weekend is soon upon us, and what better place to spend it than Vermont's very own Stratton Mountain Resort? From Thursday, August 31 through Monday, September 4, we're not just talking about a mere escape; we're talking about an experience that threads the needle between relaxation and a heart-pumping adventure.
Let's break it down day by day.
Your extra-long weekend kicks off with a panoramic ride up the Gondola. Picture this: a fifteen-minute lift ride (where you’ll enjoy stunning vistas of the late-summer/early foliage coverage below) brings you to the summit of southern Vermont's highest peak. Once at the top, you can enjoy a short hike to the Fire Tower, take a breather and a picnic at the Hubert House deck, or just take a minute to appreciate your dramatic surroundings. On your way back down, spot the iconic summit bear and perhaps snap a photo or two for the ‘gram.
Feeling sporty? Dive into the Mountain Bike Park, tailored for all—from the cautious newbie to the daring downhill veteran. With more than 10 miles of downhill single-track trails, there’s something for everyone.
And if two-wheelers aren't your thing, rev up your engines for the ATV Summit Tours. New this year, this 90-minute round-trip tour will take you up winding mountain trails from the Sun Bowl to the summit and is absolutely exhilarating.
Oh, and don't forget to take breaks—perhaps a stroll through the Sidewalk Sales at Stratton Village? With 30-70% off name brands such as Burton, The North Face, Rossignol, Smartwool, GoPro, and more - you’ll find deals that might just make your jaw drop.
Now, if you fancy serenity wrapped in a scenic backdrop, the 27-hole Championship golf course awaits your swing.
Start your weekend right with the Stratton Foundation Golf Tournament. Described as one of the top resort courses in New England, you’ll find three distinct nine-hole layouts; Forest, Lake and Mountain. But, it's not just about the game or that picture-perfect setting, it's about the cause. Each stroke supports the Stratton Foundation, which has been impressively stepping up in response to the recent flooding.
Yoga enthusiasts, prepare to find your Shangrila. Start your day with a Mountain Top Yoga session. As you stretch and meditate, you're above the clouds and miles away from any stress or distraction at home. Serenity paired with a view—what more could one ask for?
As evening approaches, it's showtime! Get ready to sway and groove as the one and only The Wailers (yes, that Wailers!) take center stage. Get in the groove with OG reggae, and dance the night away with those iconic classics!
If you thought Saturday was packed, Sunday's got its own lineup. Fuel up your morning with another session of Mountain Top Yoga. Once you've found your zen, it's time to gear up for an all-day treat. Blues, Brews & BBQ 2023 promises tantalizing flavors, rocking music, and a selection of the finest local brews.
Wind down your adventure-packed weekend with one final Mountain Top Yoga session, or an invigorating swim in the many local swimming holes. Reflect, relax, and be pumped you decided to make the most of your holiday weekend up on Stratton.
Don't let this Labor Day be just another long weekend. Turn it into a story. An adventure. And remember, tickets for specific events fly off the shelves, so best to grab yours early!
Make the most of a long weekend: Book a Friday and Saturday night stay at Stratton Mountain and get a Thursday or Sunday night complimentary for a true Vermont getaway. Book Your Long Weekend at Stratton
Ever dreamt of a grand, lakefront estate that's pure Vermont luxury, wrapped up in a $26.2 million bow? Welcome to Grosse Point Estate, folks - the palatial epitome of Vermont's jaw-dropping beauty and a true slice of heaven for all the billionaire leaf-peepers out there.
An old-school, elegant stone residence sits on a whopping 345 acres of pristine Vermont land. Built in 1906, this historic 10,000-square-foot stone house is your ticket to living the grand Vermont life.
Wake up every morning and take in over 30 miles of Lake Champlain views. With sweeping lake vistas both to the north and south, prepare for an all-you-can-see buffet of tranquil blue water. It's so stunning we wouldn't blame you if you feel the need to pinch yourself each day, just to be sure you aren’t still dreaming.
But Grosse Point offers more than just a magnificent main house. It's a world unto itself, complete with five guesthouses, usable barns, and even a farm manager's house. Picture inviting your friends to your very own New England retreat, where each party can retire to their own charming cottage after a day, out on the water, or finding foliage, or of golf out on your private 9-hole course.
This majestic estate offers 1.5 miles of lake frontage with three large docks, promising endless days of lakeside relaxation and water-based fun. So, whether you want to dip your toes in, go for a morning swim, or launch your yacht, Grosse Point has you covered.
With the majority of the property covered by a Nature Conservancy Conservation easement, you can rest assured that the tranquil beauty of this place is here to stay. Meaning this slice of Vermont heaven is going to stay heavenly.
Grosse Point is on the market for only the second time in a century. So if you've got a spare $26.2 million lying around, here's your chance to own a chunk of Vermont's rich history. Even if you're not ready to cough up the cash, you can still drool over the photos and daydream about living the high life.
Listed by Wade Weathers of LandVest, you can check out the full listing and prepare to be wowed.
The power of community is undeniable, especially in the face of adversity. Vermonters have always exhibited resilience in difficult times, a trait that shines even brighter following the recent extreme weather events. This strength is once again evident as our local businesses rally together to support flood-stricken communities.
Enter Drinks for Dehumidifiers, a state-wide initiative slated for Friday, July 28. Local cafes, bars, tasting rooms, and restaurants across Vermont are pledging a percentage of their drink sales for the day towards buying dehumidifiers and other necessary supplies. These crucial devices will aid flooded communities, drying out homes and businesses, and contribute to recovery efforts.
Spearheaded by the good folks at Adventure Dinner, in collaboration with Senator Kesha Ram and the Queen City Saints, the goal is to raise $15,000 through this initiative. It's an ambitious goal in a short time, but as Vermonters, we know the power of pulling together when the need is immediate and the cause is worthy.
Want to participate? It's as easy as enjoying your favorite drink at a participating venue! Look at all these tasty spots!
Visit their pages, enjoy their delicious offerings, and support the fundraiser!
Not in Vermont or can't make it to a participating business? No worries, you can still contribute to this great cause! Simply use the Venmo below to donate to Queen City Saints, the community group leading this effort. Every dollar will go towards purchasing dehumidifiers and supplies for communities in need.
Even as we enjoy our drinks and camaraderie, let's remember the reasons behind this cause. While we're not focusing on the devastation, we're well aware of its impact. This is a way for us to lend our support, show our love, and help keep Vermont Strong.
So come out on July 28, enjoy great food and excellent craft cocktails, support local businesses, and make a difference in our communities.
For more information, resources, and additional donation opportunities, visit our Disaster Resource page on Vermont.com.
Step into the magic of nature, unplug from the rush of everyday life, and journey inward at Vermont's OM Festival this summer. From Wednesday, July 26th to Sunday, July 30th, 2023, the lush mountain oasis of the West Mountain Inn in Arlington will transform into a haven for yoga enthusiasts, nature lovers, and adventure seekers alike. Whether you're planning a soul-searching solo venture or looking for a unique group getaway, the OM Festival promises a transformative experience against the backdrop of Vermont's stunning Green Mountains.
Specially designed for those seeking more than just a typical festival, the OM Festival unfolds like an epic eco-adventure. Set on over 150 acres of mountainside terrain overlooking the serene Battenkill River, this annual retreat promises outdoor exploration coupled with holistic rejuvenation. The festival is more than just a chance to engage with a mindful community; it's an invitation to embrace the transformative power of nature, adventure, and self-discovery.
At OM Festival, each day starts with a variety of life-affirming activities, creating a blend of experiences that caters to all facets of wellness. Whether you start your morning with a stimulating Hatha, Aerial, Kundalini, or Ashtanga yoga session under the open sky, a brisk swim in the Battenkil, or a mindful hike on the trails - your body will feel free and your mind will follow. Let the afternoon light sway you into a dance class or flow art workshop, energizing and freeing your spirit amidst the refreshing mountain air. As night falls, surrender to the beats of live music, drum circles, and vibrant DJs, dancing under the Vermont stars.
With over 40 sessions in yoga, meditation, dance, and flow arts, your time at OM Festival will pave the path for a deeper exploration of your inner self. Plus, the festival encourages eco-conscious practices like carpooling, recycling, and farm-to-table dining, thus crafting a powerful narrative of unity, mindfulness, and respect for Mother Earth.
For those who love the charm of rustic living, the festival offers camping options along the river. For a more luxurious stay, there are also rooms available at the heart of the event, The West Mountain Inn. Book early to secure your preferred accommodations and ensure a seamless festival experience.
The OM Festival is more than just a retreat; it's an eco-adventure that fuses community, self-exploration, and reverence for nature. Set the date and prepare to immerse yourself in the green Vermont landscape while basking in the glow of personal transformation. From yoga and meditation sessions to outdoor hikes and musical performances, every element of the festival is designed to inspire deep connection and profound personal growth.
This July, it's time to answer the call of the mountains.
Eager to join this transformative journey? The OM Festival offers multiple ticket options:
- 5 Day All Access Festival Pass: $499.00
This pass offers a complete OM Festival experience with 5-day access to all classes, workshops, and nightly entertainment.
- 3 Day Festival Pass: $399.00
This pass offers full festival access for any three chosen days, including all classes, workshops, and nightly entertainment.
- 2 Day Festival Pass: $249.00
This pass provides access to two days of classes, workshops, and nightly entertainment.
- Regular One Day Pass: $149.00 - $169.00
This pass offers a one-day experience, allowing access to classes, workshops, and the day's musical performances.
$249 Yoga 2 Day Festival Pass: Make a weekend of it! Good for two days, two-night pass. Two Day pass includes access to all classes, workshops, and nightly entertainment. Good for any two days. Book Your Stay Now ->
The 4th of July is a time for barbecues, fireworks, and fun with friends and family. Vermont has some of the most unique and memorable 4th of July celebrations in the country. From parades to festivals, Burlington to Brattleboro, these Vermont 4th of July activities will make your holiday unforgettable.
Whether it’s a traditional parade, mountaintop fireworks, or something more unique - Vermont has a plethora of activities for you to choose from. So, if you’re looking for something to do in Vermont this 4th of July, look no further! Here are 15 unforgettable 4th of July celebrations in Vermont that you won’t want to miss.
Get ready, Vermonters, for the Burlington Annual Independence Day Celebration! This year, the evening of July 3rd is about to get lit, and we don't just mean Vermont's largest fireworks display. Celebrating their 175th Anniversary, National Life Group is adding a sprinkle of tech magic to the festivities with an astonishing drone light show.
Kick off the evening at 5 pm at the stunning Waterfront Park in downtown Burlington. Immerse yourself in the rhythmic beats of Sambatucada! as they set the mood on the boardwalk, followed with a performance from The Motts on the Main Stage. Get ready to gaze skyward as the National Life Drone show starts at 9:30 pm, followed promptly by the much-anticipated Northstar Fireworks show. Did we mention there will be local food vendors galore to keep your hunger pangs at bay throughout the night? And, when the fireworks finally die down, don’t rush off. The Motts will be back to play their final set, ensuring the night ends with a bang.
Grab your calendars and highlight all the way through July 4, because you're headed to Vermont for an Independence Day blowout at Stratton Mountain Resort. This isn’t your average 4th of July weekend; Stratton Mountain's all-out extravaganza pulls together a remarkable mashup of live music, fireworks, outdoor fun, and family activities. Dive into the Stratton Bike Park, catch a scenic lift ride, or get your Zen on with a Mountain Top Yoga sesh.
Stay the long weekend, because why wouldn’t you? With nightly rates at the Black Bear Lodge a steal at $99, you can really dig into the fun. As the sun dips, make sure you’re front and center for Stratton's Mountain Friends and Freedom celebration. It's a feast of BBQ delights, live tunes from The Dave Matthews Tribute Band, and a sky alight with fireworks. The celebrations continue with The Machine Pink Floyd Show, and Rumours - A Fleetwood Mac Tribute, coupled with more dazzling firework displays. This is the 4th of July done Vermont style, so gear up and get ready to celebrate like never before.
Unleash your patriotic spirit with the Vermont Symphony Orchestra Concert & Fireworks at the idyllic Grafton Trails and Outdoor Center. Think balmy summer skies, a lush green landscape, and the harmonious melodies of America's favorites resonating through the air—this is one spectacle you don't want to miss. The night's show is made all the better when you're staying at the iconic nearby Grafton Inn. The gates swing open at 5:30 pm, just in time for you to stake out a perfect picnic spot before the concert kicks off at 7:30 pm.
Prepare for a night of foot-tapping joy as guest trumpeter and jazz luminary, Ray Vega, teams up with the Vermont Symphony Orchestra and maestro Michelle di Russo. Their repertoire will have you swinging to Duke Ellington, crooning with Louis Armstrong, getting jazzy with Thelonious Monk, marching with John Philip Sousa, and more. So, load up those picnic baskets, slather on some sunscreen, and don't forget your folding chairs for what's set to be an unforgettable night under the stars. And just when you thought the night couldn't get any more magical, the sky will erupt in a stunning firework display to cap off the performance.
Independence Day has always had a special flair in Montpelier, and this year is no exception. The city is pulling out all the stops for its largest summer event, so prepare to have your star-spangled socks knocked off. The day-long extravaganza commences at 3 pm with a delightful mash-up of mouth-watering cuisines at the Food Truck Festival, coupled with FamilyFest on the State House Lawn.
The streets come alive with the sounds of laughter, music, and celebration during the Community Parade at 6:15 pm, followed by Chad Hollister taking the Main Stage from 7 pm to 9:20 pm. As the night sky blankets the city, the spotlight shifts to Julia Fortin, who will stir your patriotic spirit with the National Anthem. As her last note fades away, brace yourself for a firework spectacle that's sure to outshine any in your memory. In Montpelier, they don't just celebrate Independence Day - they make it a day to remember.
For those seeking an authentic, charmingly old-school celebration, look no further than the Stowe Old-Fashioned Fourth of July Celebration. In an irresistible collaboration between the Town of Stowe and Stowe Vibrancy, the event brings a parade worth talking about to the charming Stowe Village’s Main Street. Plan your day around a tantalizing lineup of food vendors, live music performances, and entertainment for the whole family, right on the scenic Village green.
From the World’s Shortest Marathon starting at 11 a.m. (dedicated to USMC Lt. Ryan Casey), to the captivating procession of floats led by the Grand Marshal, it's an all-day affair of fun and festivity. But the day isn't over yet! As night descends, make your way to nearby Mayo Fields. This is where you'll witness one of Vermont's most magnificent firework displays painting the night sky with patriotic hues.
Get ready for an all-American day of celebration at the 4th on the Farm event at Billings Farm in Woodstock. Embrace your competitive side with historic lawn games or take a break from modern life with horse-drawn wagon rides. Don't miss the chance to test your mettle with youth and adult spelling bees - all with a delightful 19th-century twist! Baseball enthusiasts can channel their inner Babe Ruth and participate in a historic “base ball” game. But, hey, if sports aren’t your jam, you can still get in on the fun, cheering for your favorites from the bleachers.
Musical duo Shady Rill will be there to delight you with live performances by Tom McKenzie and Patti Casey, an award-winning songwriter. Treat your taste buds with sweet maple cotton candy and Vermont-made ice cream or go on a culinary adventure with the Mediterranean offerings from the Fork in the Road Food Truck. Whichever way you lean, Billings Farm ensures a 4th of July that's bursting with fun and flavor.
Spend your Fourth of July at the Lake Morey Resort, a jewel nestled in the Vermont hills. Not just another barbecue, this event is packing a punch with a town parade, lawn games, and live music to keep you entertained throughout the day. When hunger strikes, treat yourself to lunch under the sunny lake-front Vermont sky. As the day mellows into night, you'll have front-row seats to a dazzling lakeside fireworks display, with the lake's still surface acting as a mirror, doubling the spectacle.
Arrive on Sunday or Monday to snag the 'Midweek Stay 3 & the 4th is Free' package, because who wouldn't want a free day in this haven? So whether you're a thrill-seeker or a chill-seeker, prepare for an unforgettable Fourth of July at Lake Morey Resort.
Brace yourself for the Jeffersonville July 4th Celebration at Smugglers' Notch, where the festivities are just as epic as the fireworks. This Independence Day, Jeffersonville transforms into a celebratory 4th of July hub with a parade, country fair, live entertainment, and what promises to be a fireworks display that could outshine the stars themselves.
Centered around the festivities at Smugglers’ Notch Resort, begin your day in Jeffersonville at 10 am, participating in the Independence Day Parade. An Independence Day carnival of sorts, you’ll find artists, live music, delicious food, wine, beer, and games from 11 am to 4 pm.
Back at Smugglers' Notch Resort, the party kicks up a notch with Jammin' Sam spinning tunes that cater to all ages from 6 pm. Then, from 7 pm, enjoy the harmonious melodies of the Freedom and Unity Choir. Iron Sights rocks the stage from 8-9:30 pm, and as dusk settles, prepare for the grand finale—a spectacular fireworks display that lights up the Green Mountain backdrop. Clear your day, because this Independence Day bash is a full-day affair.
Gear up for a two-day celebration in Manchester, starting on July 2nd at Earth Sky Time. You won't want to miss their Concerts on the Farm event, where you can groove to the beats of the Garifuna Collective while indulging in mouthwatering pizza, beer, wine, and desserts. Once you've gotten your music and food fix, save some of that celebratory spirit for the main event on July 4th at the Dana Thompson Memorial Park. As the day fades into dusk, the park will be illuminated with the town's Annual Fireworks Display. Pack your favorite picnic or support local vendors offering delectable goodies. It's a back-to-back bash that perfectly sets the stage for an unforgettable Fourth of July.
Get ready to paint the town red, white, and blue at Brandon's Independence Day Celebration. Billed as "Brandon's Favorite Day of the Year," this bash isn't just a one-event wonder - it's an all-day fête that will have you feeling more patriotic than Uncle Sam himself. Starting from the crack of dawn till the last firework illuminates the summer sky, there's a whole range of activities planned, ensuring fun for every family member.
Kick off your day with a quaint train ride up Park Street courtesy of the Heritage train, but make sure to keep your eyes peeled for those auction sites. Who knows, you might just stumble upon a hidden gem! As the sun rides high, brace yourself for the adrenaline rush that is the world-renowned Little Debbie Swiss Cake Roll Eating Contest. Mic Drop. Enjoy some evening street dancing and finish up your day under the spectacular firework show that you can catch from almost anywhere in town. As if that weren't enough, the celebration sprawls across the town's new and improved streetscape, pocket parks, quaint shops, and eateries, making Brandon the place to be this July 1st.
Throw on your dancing shoes and let your patriotic spirit soar at Greensboro's Funky Fourth Celebration. The good times roll on July 1st, starting at 5:30 pm on the Patio & Lawn, with free admission for all (but hey, donations are more than welcome). Kick back to the country-rock rhythms of The Mallett Brothers Band. From alt-country and Americana to roots rock, their music is as diverse as America itself - just right for a Fourth of July shindig.
But don't let your dancing feet cool down, because once the sun goes down, it's time for the Glorious DJ to take the stage, spinning a mix of hits, hidden gems, and future classics guaranteed to keep you moving until late into the night.
And what's a party without a feast? The HCA Café has you covered with mouth-watering picnic dinners ready to grab and go. Their homemade mac & cheese will have you coming back for seconds, while the Highland Chicken Salad offers a fresh, flavorful twist. And don’t forget to end the meal on a sweet note with their divine Strawberry Shortcake. Remember, seating is first-come, first-served, so bring your lawn blankets and chairs for a perfect picnic under the stars. This is one Funky Fourth Celebration you won’t want to miss!
We're all guilty of getting wrapped up in the daily grind. But when the red, white, and blue banners flutter high and the scent of barbecues fill the air, it's time to break the monotony and soak in the sheer magic of the 4th of July. From groovy concerts and sky-painting fireworks to quirky food fests and iconic parades, Vermont brings you an Independence Day bash that is pretty spectacular.
Whether it's at a resort, on a mountain, or right in the heart of the city, Vermont's Independence Day events promise to be unforgettable. Now, just one question remains: where will you be when the fireworks light up the Vermont sky?
FOURTH OF JULY $99 NIGHTS: Book a room at the Black Bear Lodge on Monday July 3, Tuesday July 4, or both for just $99 a night. Enjoy the long weekend getaway, catch live music from The Machine and Rumours, hit the Bike Park, take a Scenic Lift Ride and explore so much more over the holiday weekend. Book Your Long Weekend at Stratton
So, imagine this: You're nestled in the green heart of Vermont, a cool drink in hand, and the tranquil Lake Champlain as your view. You're at the Basin Harbor Resort, a chill-out paradise that's getting ready to host the best summer getaway of your life. Here's the inside scoop on some killer summer packages designed for every kind of vacationer out there.
First off, we've got a little something for those of us who can't stand the thought of leaving our fur babies behind. Yep, it's the PAWSH Pet Package. Think 3 nights in a super cute cottage, breakfast in bed (well, probably at a table, but no judgment here), and your furry bestie at your side. But wait, there's more - your pet gets the A-lister treatment with a Basin Harbor collar and leash, travel pet dish, and a special welcome gift on arrival. Trust me, your Instagram followers won't know what hit 'em.
Alright, now for the lovebirds out there. Get ready to turn up the heat with the Love in Vermont package. This romantic escape includes a two-night stay, mouth-watering breakfasts, and a gourmet Charcuterie Board (fancy, right?). Throw in a bottle of Shacksbury Champlain Sparkling Cider for those cozy evening toasts and a scenic cruise aboard the EScape. Who needs Paris when you've got Vermont, am I right?
But if you're the party-loving kind, the Red Mill 50th Anniversary package is just the ticket. The legendary Red Mill Restaurant at Basin Harbor is hitting the big 5-0, and they're throwing a bash for the books. The package comes with some cool Red Mill-themed gear and a $50 dining credit. Great vibes, awesome food, and memories that'll last a lifetime.
For all the water enthusiasts, the Float Your Boat package is your passport to aquatic adventure. Daily kayak rentals, a lake tour aboard the EScape, and your pick of paddleboard or motorboat rentals. Just picture yourself cruising on Lake Champlain, wind in your hair, worries forgotten. Summer just doesn't get better than this.
Calling all Vermont locals! Basin Harbor is ready to give you some home-team love with the Vermonters Only Package. Explore your backyard and enjoy exclusive discounts for local residents. Trust me, staycations have never looked this good.
Now, let's talk about the Vacation Ace package. Perfect for tennis pros and newbies alike, this package serves up daily breakfast, a private lesson with a Basin Harbor Tennis Pro, and some time on the resort's top-notch clay courts. It's game, set, and match for a fantastic vacation.
And if you're a foodie, brace yourself. The Live Like a Local package is a full-blown culinary tour of Vermont, all within the resort. You'll be savoring hard cider, local chocolates, maple syrup, Vermont cheese, and crackers. Who needs a passport when you've got this gastronomic journey?
Feeling sporty? Give pickleball a shot with their Pickle Package. You get a pickleball clinic, equipment rentals, and yeah, you guessed it - local pickles. It's the fastest-growing sport in America, and also the tastiest, apparently.
Lastly, for all the golfers out there, the Classic Golf package lets you swing amid the stunning natural beauty of Vermont. Beautiful greens, breathtaking views, and the chance to bag a birdie (or at least try) - it's a golfer's dream come true.
So there you have it, folks. Each of these special summer packages at Basin Harbor is your ticket to an unforgettable summer. Don't just daydream about it, make it a reality. Start your Basin Harbor tradition, book your summer package, and get ready to make some epic summer memories.
Ready to start your tradition with Basin Harbor? Click through to book your perfect summer package now. Basin Harbor awaits you, and trust me, summer there is like nowhere else!
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Up in the Northeast Kingdom, in gorgeous Jay, VT we’ve found the perfect Vermont summer getaway, where epic relaxation and adventure vibes collide. Picture yourself surrounded by the lush greenery of a forest mountain creek and kicking back and soaking in the serenity of your own private backyard waterfall. With spacious bedrooms, a fun, open layout, and breathtaking views, this is the ultimate Green Mountain retreat for an unforgettable vacation.
This cabin is the perfect fusion of comfort and style, designed to make you feel at home and ready to unwind. With three bedrooms (including a beautiful master suite) and two full bathrooms, there's plenty of space for everyone to kick back and enjoy their downtime.
The open-concept living area is a chill spot where you and your group can hang out and relax - natural light floods in through the large windows, creating a bright and inviting atmosphere.
The living area leads seamlessly to the game room with foosball and wet bar, so entertaining is a breeze. Whether you're binge-watching your favorite shows or engaging in lively conversations, this is the spot to unwind and create lasting memories.
Now, let's talk about the backyard—the true gem of this property. Brace yourself for the peaceful sounds of your own private waterfall cascading into a tranquil swimming hole. Take a seat in the comfortable Adirondack chairs, close your eyes, and let the soothing sounds of nature wash over you.
If you’re looking for a more vigorous afternoon, it's time to put on your hiking boots and conquer the nearby Jay Peak summit. A part of the Long Trail, this moderate hike will lead you through lush forests, over babbling streams, and ultimately up to an awe-inspiring viewpoint. The hike takes close to three hours (it’s an out-and-back), but the views from the top looking into Canada are absolutely worth it.
When hunger strikes, head over to The Belfry—a hidden local gem in nearby Montgomery Center that's all about good vibes and mouthwatering flavors. A long-time staple, the staff at the Belfry have an unbelievable way of making you feel completely at home like you’ve been coming there for years. Our recs: any of the burgers are sensational, but the Jay Peak Burger with garlic and VT cheddar is *chef’s kiss*.
So you’ve hiked the long trail, cooled off in the backyard and now you’re ready to really make a splash? Less than 15 minutes away, look no further than the Jay Peak Pump House - Vermont’s only indoor water park. Get your adrenaline pumping as you hit up their water slides, relax on the lazy river, or take on the water obstacle course. Between all of this and the attached snack bar, you’re going to have a heck of a lot of fun.
Once back at the house, settle back for the evening in the living room (maybe a little wood-burning stove action if it’s one of those perfect cool mountain nights), or serve up a match or two of foosball. Or if you’re really feeling the outdoor vibes (who can blame you?) head out to the creeks-side firepit and dig into some ‘smores. No matter how you wrap up your day at this summer hideaway, you’ll have a solid night’s sleep knowing what a perfect day it’s been.
This Jay Cabin can sleep up to six guests and is currently listed at $324 per night.
All listings featured on Vermont.com are independently selected by our editors. If you book or purchase something through our links, we may earn an affiliate commission - which in turn helps support our work - so, thank you!
Are you looking to get out and explore Vermont this summer? Vermont’s state parks are exactly what you’re looking for. With more than 50 unique parks to explore, get ready to be mesmerized by breathtaking landscapes, serene lakes, and exhilarating trails. From the tranquil shores of Burton Island to the rugged beauty of Smugglers' Notch, Vermont’s state parks are the perfect launching pad for a Green Mountain adventure.
Whether you're a first-time VT visitor or a seasoned Green Mountain explorer, these parks offer a slice of paradise. From kayaking on serene lakes to hiking through lush forests, each park has its own unique allure. And it's not just about the parks themselves - nearby attractions, charming lodging options, and farm-to-table dining experiences will add an extra touch of magic to your expedition. So pack your sense of adventure and get ready to uncover the beauty, excitement, and hidden treasures that await you in Vermont's stunning state parks.
Located in Lake Champlain, Burton Island State Park is a true gem for outdoor enthusiasts. A short ferry ride over will bring you to Burton Island’s stunning shorelines and panoramic views - which are perfect for swimming, boating, and kayaking. The island also offers hiking trails that lead to hidden coves and picnic spots. For those who love camping, Burton Island State Park provides amazing island camping experiences in their lakefront lean-tos and tent sites.
Nearby attractions include the picturesque bike trails along Lake Champlain and the historic village of St. Albans. When it comes to lodging, we happen to love the charming Back Inn Time Bed & Breakfast, or if you don’t mind a bit farther of a drive, Hotel Vermont in nearby Burlington is a chic boutique winner. For dining, don't miss the great eats at Twiggs Gastropub or the craft beers at 14th Star Brewing Company.
Nestled along the shores of Lake Bomoseen, this state park is a hidden paradise. Take a dip in the crystal-clear waters, try your hand at fishing, or rent a boat to explore the lake's serene beauty. Hiking enthusiasts will enjoy the trails that wind through dense forests and offer breathtaking views.
Within 10 miles, you can check out the Pond Hill Ranch Rodeo (one of the only rodeos in the state), or you can have a night at the track at Devil’s Bowl Speedway. For a unique lodging experience, check out the cozy Lake Bomoseen Lodge and Taproom, or we like this great VRBO cottage. Satisfy your taste buds with farm-to-table delights at The Taproom or eat dockside at Lake House Pub and Grille.
Prepare to be mesmerized by the majestic Camel's Hump, Vermont's iconic mountain peak. Camel's Hump State Park offers a network of hiking trails that take you through lush forests, alpine meadows, and breathtaking vistas. As you ascend the mountain, you'll be rewarded with panoramic views of the surrounding valleys and lakes.
Within a short distance, explore attractions like the scenic Stowe Mountain Resort or the charming village of Waterbury, home to the renowned Ben & Jerry's ice cream factory. For a unique stay, consider the cozy Green Mountain Inn, perfectly located in the middle of downtown Stowe. Treat yourself to a farm-to-table dining experience at Hen of the Wood or sip craft beers at The Alchemist Brewery.
Nestled around the picturesque Elmore Lake, Elmore State Park is a tranquil haven for outdoor enthusiasts. Swim in the clear waters, relax on the sandy beach, or embark on a scenic hike up Elmore Mountain for breathtaking views of the surrounding countryside. Don't forget to bring your picnic basket to enjoy a leisurely lunch by the lake.
For a unique lodging experience, this rustic cottage farmhouse on Airbnb is as tranquil as it gets. Just down the road in Morrisville, be sure to visit Lost Nation Brewing, for great food and amazing local craft beers.
Emerald Lake State Park, with its sparkling lake and lush forests, offers a perfect retreat for nature lovers. Swim, fish, or paddle in the crystal-clear waters, surrounded by the scenic beauty of the Green Mountains. The park's hiking trails lead you through serene woodlands and provide glimpses of wildlife along the way.
Nearby in Manchester, explore attractions such as the legendary Northshire Bookstore or the breathtaking drive up the longest private-owned toll road in America at Equinox Mountain. Stay at the charming Banrstead Inn or indulge in a fabulous stay at the iconic Equinox Resort. For dining, savor farm-to-table delights at the Silver Fork or the Crooked Ram for truly excellent meals.
Tucked away in the heart of Vermont's wilderness, Green River Reservoir State Park offers a secluded retreat for outdoor enthusiasts. Paddle through the calm waters of the reservoir, surrounded by lush forests and untouched beauty. Hiking trails allow you to explore the park's diverse ecosystems, where birdwatching is a must for nature lovers.
Camping is the way to go at Green River, or make a day trip of it and enjoy a stay at the always-welcoming Smugglers' Notch Resort. Also, heading back to Lost Nation for pints and food is always advisable.
Jamaica State Park, nestled along the scenic West River, is a paradise for outdoor enthusiasts. Swim in the river's refreshing waters, explore the park's hiking trails, or simply relax and enjoy a picnic by the water. Don't miss the opportunity to visit the park's captivating Hamilton Falls, a spectacular waterfall hidden within the lush forest.
This amazing tiny house is the perfect home base for your Jamaica adventures, and there are also a ton of nearby camping areas, including the park itself. We always like to stop by Honey Pie for burgers and shakes, and you can never go wrong with a trip up to Stratton’s Village shops and restaurants.
With its picturesque lake and surrounding mountains, Lake St. Catherine State Park offers a serene and scenic retreat. Swim in the pristine waters, rent a kayak or paddleboard, or just take it easy on the sandy beach. The park also features hiking trails that provide panoramic views of the lake and the surrounding landscape.
Stay at this quaint cottage for lakefront living or enjoy the luxury of The Wilburton just a short drive away in beautiful Manchester. Satisfy your taste buds with farm-to-table delights at the rustic local favorite, Barn Restaurant.
For breathtaking views and scenic beauty, Mount Philo State Park is a must-visit destination. A short hike to Philo’s summit where you'll be rewarded with panoramic vistas of Lake Champlain and the Adirondack Mountains. The picnic tables and grills are ideal for a sunset outing.
Within the area, explore attractions like the Shelburne Museum or the charming town of Vergennes. Stay at the cozy Basin Harbor or head a bit farther north to the Hotel Vermont in Burlington. Starry Night Café has been serving up delicious dishes for years and is always the perfect treat. Similarly, you could head North on Rt. 7 to Fiddlehead Brewing Company where you can enjoy a wood-fired pizza from Folino’s and a pint or two from the eponymous brewery on site.
Tucked away in the picturesque Northeast Kingdom, New Discovery State Park offers a serene and secluded retreat. Don't miss the chance to spot wildlife, including moose and deer, during your explorations. They call the Northeast Kingdom God’s Country, and this gorgeous state park is certainly adding to the allure.
No summer trip to the NEK is complete without time spent on Kingdom Trails, so be sure to get in your mountain biking fix on the hundreds of single-track trails found here. For the best of it all, you’d be wise to stay at the Wildflower Inn, where many of the trails begin and riders and hikers alike gather for end-of-day drinks.
Vermont State Park Tips:
- Pack essentials such as sunscreen, insect repellent, hiking shoes, and plenty of water.
- Book accommodations in advance, especially during peak summer months.
- Respect the environment by practicing Leave No Trace principles and following park regulations.
For detailed information on all 55 of Vermont's state parks, be sure to visit the official State Parks website. It's your go-to resource for everything you need to know about these incredible natural destinations, including park amenities, activities, and directions.
Are you stoked for summer? Of course you are. It’s been a long, snowy winter, which don’t get us wrong - we love it, but by the time April rolls around, we’re ready for a little fun in the sun! If, like us, you're looking for a place to kick off this beautiful season, Stratton Mountain Resort is where it's at. Trust us, you're in for a Memorial Day Weekend like no other, packed full of exciting activities, jaw-dropping events, and terrific deals all season long. Think of it as your perfect opportunity for a Vermont getaway. So, buckle up and let's dive into what awaits you at Stratton Mountain this Memorial Day Weekend - and beyond!
Alright, let's start with something everyone loves - a live concert. Stratton Mountain is set to host its annual Memorial Day Weekend Concert. This year, they’ve got performances from FREEBIRD and Changes in Latitudes taking the stage on Saturday, May 27 starting at 5pm. We're talking about a night filled with good tunes, great company, and the stunning backdrop of Stratton Mountain. So go ahead and secure your tickets now because it's going to be an absolute blast!
Looking to ease into your Memorial Day festivities? I get it! How about taking a relaxing stroll at the Stratton Mountainside Farmer's Market on Saturday? Set in the scenic Stratton Courtyard from 2-5PM (plenty of time to hit up the concert afterwards), it’s the perfect place to enjoy the local Vermont community vibe. From Appalachian Gap Distillery, Taylor Farm Hemp Co, Gem Moon Jars to Ken Ahlering Painting, there's a plethora of vendors ready to showcase their crafts. And did we mention there will be live music from Heavy Nettles? Quite the ambiance, right?
Okay, now let's get the adrenaline pumping. Are you ready to take in Vermont’s breathtaking beauty from new heights? Stratton’s Scenic Gondola Rides offer the perfect opportunity to marvel at Vermont’s awe-inspiring beauty from a whole new perspective. Offered all summer long, taking the gondola to the top of the mountain is the perfect starting point for a leisurely hike out to the Firetower trails, or if you’re feeling particularly adventurous, there are plenty of options for longer routes back to the base.
And if that's not enough, the newly opened for the season Stratton Bike Park is ready to add a dash of adrenaline to your holiday. With an ever-expanding trail network, the lift-serve mountain biking at Stratton is on a whole other level. The trail-building virtuosos at Sinuosity have meticulously crafted the perfect mix of flow and speed, with trail riding for all ability levels. Didn’t bring up your bike? No problemo - swing by First Run in the village to gear up from top to bottom.
Are you more of a "chill out and unwind" kind of person? If so, we've got just the thing for you. The Stratton Golf Course offers the perfect balance between relaxation and luxury. Nestled amidst the vibrant greenery of Vermont, it's not just a golfer's paradise, but a true sanctuary for everyone seeking a bit of serenity. A championship 27-hole course in three parts, Mountain, Lake and Forest, a round on the links at Stratton is a golfer’s shangri-la.
Speaking of tranquility, nothing beats Stratton's Mountaintop Yoga classes. Take a complimentary gondola ride to the summit where a relaxing morning flow class awaits. Imagine welcoming the day amidst the beautiful Vermont scenery, channeling your inner peace. It's an experience that you simply can't miss. And that view!
We totally get it if you're already wishing to extend your stay. Good news - Stratton is running a special 'Make it a Long Weekend' package all summer long that has got you covered. Book for Friday and Saturday night and score an extra night for free. This means more time for another round of golf, another day at the bike park, or just a peaceful rest day after a long hike.
While this Memorial Day Weekend is going to be epic, it's just a glimpse of what summer at Stratton looks like. From the soothing weather, the friendly local community, to the endless fun activities, Stratton Mountain Resort has everything to make your summer unforgettable. So, what are you waiting for? It's time to pack your bags, and let the summer adventures at Stratton begin!
Edited on 7/24/23: This contest has concluded. Be sure to check out the Fall Foliage Giveaway at Basin Harbor going on now!
Adventure, luxury, tradition – find it all at Basin Harbor Resort. This weekend, in collaboration with Shacksbury Cider, you have a chance to win a week-long stay at this serene lakefront sanctuary.
Are you an adventurer at heart who relishes luxurious living and cherishes tradition? If your answer is yes, then ready your suitcases and tag your loved ones. Your dream vacation might just be a click away.
Tucked back at the end of a winding Vermont country road, you can find Basin Harbor Resort, a 700-acre, fifth-generation Shangrila. And with this sweepstakes, you have the chance to create a summer's worth of cherished memories in just one week.
This weekend only, Basin Harbor Resort is holding a giveaway sweepstakes that offers a week-long free stay from July 29th to August 5th at their serene lakefront resort. But that's not all. They’re sweetening the deal with an additional treasure trove of goodies from the good folks at Shacksbury Cider.
Participating is as easy as sipping a chilled glass of Shacksbury cider on a warm summer afternoon. Simply go to Instagram and follow @basinharbor and @shacksbury. Next, tag up to three friends who you'd love to bring on this unforgettable trip. Lastly, 'like' the official contest image, and you're in the running for that dreamy week-long stay at Basin Harbor Resort.
For extra chances to win, fill out the contest form online or share the original contest post to your stories. Remember, the sweepstakes is only running this weekend, so don't let this opportunity drift away.
Located on the shores of Lake Champlain, Basin Harbor's 700-acre property is an oasis of adventure and relaxation. Each of their 74 unique cottages, revamped by renowned interior designer Joanne Palmisano, blends vintage charm with modern comfort.
At Basin Harbor, days can be filled with exciting activities like pickleball, tennis, wakesurfing, or disc golf. In the evenings, unwind in the comfort of your personal lakeside cottage.
This weekend, seize the opportunity to make Basin Harbor Resort your dream vacation destination. Don't miss the chance to start your own tradition at Basin Harbor, where it's more than a vacation – it's a lifestyle.
All listings featured on Vermont.com are independently selected by our editors. If you book or purchase something through our links, we may earn an affiliate commission - which in turn helps support our work - so, thank you!
Sure, Vermont is an absolute winter wonderland with world-class skiing and riding galore. But if you think that's all the Green Mountain state has to offer, buckle up, because we’re about to take you on a summer tour of a Vermont property that will knock your woolen socks off.
Tucked away in the rolling landscape of Sugarbush Ski Resort, is a stunning mid-century modern retreat that has been meticulously renovated to indulge your every whim and fancy. This isn't just any summer home; it's a professionally decorated, architect-designed masterpiece.
When you walk into the cathedral-ceilinged great room, prepare to be awestruck by panoramic mountain views framed by expansive windows. Grab a book, sink into a cozy window seat and let your city stress melt away faster than a maple creemee in July.
At the heart of the home, the fully outfitted chef's kitchen sings with professional-grade Italian appliances and a custom walnut island. You can whip up a farmer’s market feast or sizzle some locally caught trout while your companions regale you with tales of their day.
The bedrooms are nothing short of dreamy. Two king bedrooms, a queen bedroom, and a custom bunk room offer sumptuous linens and stunning views. The primary suite offers a work area for those who can't totally escape the grind, an oversized soaking tub, and a rain shower that will make you feel like you're bathing under a Vermont summer drizzle.
Downstairs, the second king room conveniently opens to an outdoor sitting area—hello, morning coffee—and the hot tub, perfect for soaking under the stars after a day of hiking.
The large entry and mudroom are the perfect staging area for summer adventures with ample storage for hiking gear or bikes. And for those rainy days, the spacious TV and game room is the perfect setting for family movie marathons or board game championships. A bar and direct access to an outdoor courtyard and an 8-person saltwater hot tub are just the cherry on top of this vacation sundae.
Don't let the tranquil setting fool you; the property is just 3 minutes away from the vibrant life of Lincoln Peak and Mount Ellen. An 18-hole golf course, lift-serve mountain biking, disc golf, and summer camps galore await you and your family at this Summer hideaway.
Also nearby you’ll find Lawson's Finest Liquids. A staple in the local community and well beyond, this brewery is renowned for their exceptional, high-quality craft beers. The beirhall itself is welcoming, with a beautiful taproom where you can enjoy the charm of Vermont while sipping on their latest creations. Don't miss their flagship beer, the Sip of Sunshine IPA, which truly lives up to its name. The beer menu is extensive, ensuring there's something for everyone, from the craft beer novice to the seasoned connoisseur.
Of course, great beer should be paired with great food and luckily, American Flatbread is just down the road. This local-favorite restaurant goes beyond the regular dining experience serving up artisanal pizzas baked in a primitive wood-fired oven. The restaurant's ethos revolves around farm-to-table dining, with ingredients sourced from local farmers and producers. Their menu celebrates Vermont's agricultural bounty, boasting fresh, seasonal toppings that make each bite unique and delicious. Pair one of their flatbreads with a cool Lawson's beer for a match made in heaven.
Surrounded by gorgeous natural beauty and activities galore this property truly sets a new standard for summer vacation rentals. It can comfortably sleep 10 guests and promises to make your Vermont summer vacation unforgettable. The house is currently listed at $1517 a night.
Imagine a place where the smell of fresh mountain air and the sounds of nature are your morning wake-up call. Where days are filled with splashing in the sun, hiking in the trees, and new experiences at every turn. This is what you'll find at the ideal Vermont family vacation destination, Smugglers' Notch Resort. Set amidst the breathtaking Green Mountains, Smugglers' Notch, affectionately known as Smuggs’, is well renowned as "America's Family Resort" - and for good reason! From accommodations tailored to families to an array of engaging activities for all members of your crew, Smuggs is the perfect home-away-from-home. Here's your guide to an unforgettable long weekend at Smugglers' Notch Resort.
Welcome to Smuggs!
Kick off your shoes, relax, and let the adventure begin. Smuggs is just a day's drive from the Tri-State area, making it a convenient (and scenic) getaway all without the stresses of air travel. As you drive up, you'll be greeted by the stunning vista of lush, green landscapes and the stunning beauty of Vermont's tallest peaks. Remember to stop for a family photo with these majestic mountains as you drive through the Notch Road!
From condos that feel like your second home to cozy lodges nestled in the woods, Smuggs' range of accommodations cater to every family's needs and sizes. The resort's welcoming staff will guide you through a seamless check-in process, ensuring you settle in comfortably and get your vacation started on the right note.
After dropping off the bags and taking a few minutes to take it easy, head out to the Morse Mountain Grille for your first family meal of the trip. This casual dining spot offers a wide variety of options to suit even the pickiest of eaters. Savor locally-sourced dishes as you enjoy the resort's laid-back atmosphere and Vermont's scenic charm. The Grille's kid-friendly menu and warm service are sure to make your family's dining experience a delightful one.
End your first day with a round of smiles at the resort's evening entertainment. Smuggs' hosts daily family-friendly events, such as magic shows, musical performances, movies, bonfires complete with marshmallow roasting, and even dive-in-movie nights! This is your first night at Smuggs; kick back, unwind and relax.
Start your second day at Smuggs in the FunZone 2.0, the resort's 26,000-square-foot family fun complex. Here, you can challenge each other to a game of ping-pong or mini-golf, scale the climbing walls, or navigate the Leap of Faith. The FunZone 2.0 is perfect for family bonding and is sure to get your adrenaline pumping. It's not just a play area - it's a play haven!
Post-lunch, it's time to venture into the natural beauty surrounding Smuggs. Choose from a seemingly never-ending list of family-friendly outdoor activities - perhaps a hike up Madonna Mountain, or a peaceful kayak ride on the resort's mountain reservoir, Bootleger’s Basin. For the more adventurous, Smuggs offers a thrilling zip-line canopy tour that is downright exhilarating!
For dinner, you’re going to love what’s in store for you at Hearth & Candle, Smuggs' elegant (yet family-friendly) on-site restaurant. Offering a variety of exquisite dishes crafted from local Vermont produce, Hearth & Candle is not your typical resort eatery. And a tasty kids' menu ensures the little ones aren't left out of this culinary treat.
On your third day at Smuggs, cool off at the Mountainside Water Playground. With eight heated pools, four waterslides, and a stunning mountain vista, this is a place where you can relax and have fun at the same time. You might find it hard to leave the comfort of your poolside lounge chair though!
While the kids participate in Smuggs' award-winning children's programs, adults can enjoy a little R&R at the resort's spa. Offering a range of treatments designed to rejuvenate and refresh, it's the perfect opportunity to indulge in some well-deserved self-care.
Dinner at Martell's At the Red Fox is just what the family is looking for. This Jeffersonville gem skillfully fuses a family-friendly atmosphere with an enticing menu. Whether it's the hearty flavors of their famous prime rib or the delectably fresh seafood options, to food is delicious and the warm, inviting Vermont-style decor is just right! The children's menu ensures even the youngest guests are catered to and satisfied.
After two days of excitement and exploration, your family will now be veterans of Smugglers' Notch Resort. Get your day started with a hearty breakfast at Morse Mountain Grille. Enjoy the relaxed atmosphere and savor favorites like fluffy pancakes or a loaded omelette while planning out the day.
Remember, this is your vacation! If you're all about action, the mountain biking trails and the Smuggs' Skate Park are waiting for you. For something a little more laid back, take a peaceful kayak or SUP ride on one of the resort’s reservoirs or organize a family mini-golf tournament at the resort's Woodland mini-golf course. Make the most of your last day - there's no wrong choice!
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A summer adventure at Smugglers' Notch Resort isn't your ordinary family getaway. It's an exciting mix of invigorating activities, delectable cuisine, and awe-inspiring views – all in the heart of Vermont's idyllic, relaxing landscape. From mountaintop picnics to thrilling treetop obstacle courses, and ending the day with a spectacular sunset, each moment at the resort is packed with potential. So why wait? Start plotting your family's Smugglers' Notch escape now. With endless options for fun and exploration, it's the ultimate setting for an unforgettable summer story. Who knows? It might just become your family's favorite new tradition.
Smuggs' is all About Families: SAVE 15% off your Summer SimplySmuggs Vacation Package when you vacation with 3 or more additional families! View all Smuggs' Special Offers
We’re big advocates of using your hard-earned vacation as a time to fully relax, unwind, and unplug. It’s one of the best parts of getting away; leaving all that work, hustle, and social scrolling behind. Conversely, when you’re in a place as gorgeous and picturesque as Vermont, it can be difficult not to embrace that influencer state of mind, and just snap up some shots for the ‘gram. You know, meadows of green grass and sunflower fields, moody foliage-covered back roads, sweeping snow-capped mountain vistas - trust us, we get it.
As far as photogenic accommodations, the properties below are among the most reel-worthy digs we’ve encountered. From rustic-chic mountain lodges to grand resort getaways, stunning bed and breakfasts to designer farm stays, if you want to make your followers green with envy, it’s time for a trip into the Green Mountains.
Grafton, VT
Starting at $189/night
Grafton itself is a photogenic Shangrila, in no small part due to the presence of The Grafton Inn. A white-washed brick and column wrap-around porch (complete with hanging flowers and rocking chairs) greets you as you first arrive, and the picturesque charm doesn’t ease up throughout your entire visit. The rooms are elegant and inviting, harkening back to the inn’s storied past as a turn-of-the-century destination establishment, yet thoughtfully updated with all modern conveniences and amenities.
What guests are saying: “This Inn is the total package if you are looking to unplug and unwind! Beautiful buildings (yes more than 1!!!) make up the Grafton Inn, each with its own charm and personality. Guest rooms are spacious, well stocked with coffee and toiletries. Fun game room space, delicious home made cookies daily, and an amazing pub restaurant with live music!! This was a girls weekend and we had a blast!”
Sunderland, VT
Starting at $209/night
Hill Farm by Sagra is a contemporary take on a historic bed and breakfast. Located on a 70-acre homestead in Southern Vermont, Sagra is surrounded by rolling green hills and dramatic mountain views. Offering stays in their newly renovated main inn rooms, as well as private cottages - the design and style is simultaneously understated, minimalist, and artisan, and provides an instantaneous feeling of calm. The on-premise restaurant The Grange is helmed by former Blue Hill at Stone Barns chef Austin Poulin and is an absolute must-visit for any farm-to-table food lover.
What guests are saying: “Stayed for the weekend at one of the houses / cottages. The place was BEAUTIFUL and the food was amazing. The breakfast which is included had 3 options every morning and was different both days. The tasting menu for dinner was out of this world - Austin the chef is wonderful. Amazing hikes in the Green Mountains and the town of Manchester is cute and fun to walk around. Also highly recommend the Farm Tour. 100% would go back!”
Stowe, VT
Starting at $148/night
A quick perusal through Talta’s social feeds and you’ll know you’ve picked the right place for your boutique basecamp. Clean Scandinavian design influences can be found from the moment you walk into the lobby and continue into each of the rooms and suites. Built with the adventure-seeking visitor in mind, the custom gear storage and organization units are equal parts functional and artistry, and, as with the entire experience at Talta, we are thoroughly impressed.
What guests are saying: “The modern Scandinavian design makes your stay here wonderful, with clean relaxing rooms and beautiful lounge areas.” “Talta is nestled among the beautiful trees of Stowe and has a river running along the back of the property. Perfect fall "backyard" full of colorful leaves. Games, cozy fire pit, seating along the river, and sprawling outdoor area compliment the entertaining and social indoor spaces.”
Manchester Center, VT
Starting at $224/night
As a Kimpton property, it will come as no surprise whatsoever that the Taconic is both grand and luxurious. What’s so impressive is that they also seamlessly achieve a welcoming sense of coziness and intimacy. With a wonderfully inclusive dog policy, your pup pal can make an appearance in all of your photoshoots, and trust us, there will be ample opportunity. From the spectacular grounds and lobby, to the massive covered porch and firepit. At night, be sure to join in on the complimentary wine and cheese hour, followed by an amazing dinner in the scenic downstairs restaurant, the Copper Grouse.
What guests are saying: “To put it simply, the Taconic is a wonderful hotel. The Taconic is small enough to offer extraordinary service but large enough to offer great amenities” “Simply stated... Stunning! This hotel is simply beautiful. All the decor details were well thought out. Everything about this hotel is beautiful from wallpaper, drapes, bathrooms, etc.”
Barnard VT
Starting at $2550/night
That’s no typo on the nightly rate, but when you consider the sheer decadence and luxury that is in store for you during your stay at Twin Farms, it becomes far more intriguing. Twin Farms is one of the few all-inclusive resorts in New England, and we can guarantee that the culinary experience is beyond perfection. Inspired by the Vermont seasons and the estate-grown herbs and vegetables, the rate at Twin “includes all meals, wine pairings, and spirits enjoyed in our public dining areas, indoors and out, or in your own cottage or suite.” In fact, everything is included during your stay; the Japanese Bath House, the fresh-pasta-making class, even the fly fishing, or art tours. The list of activities and events at this 300-acre estate is seemingly endless.
What guests are saying: “I am incapable of describing in words all that is Twin Farms. We stayed there in early May 2022 and the experience absolutely blew us away. Frankly, it has ruined other vacations for us going forward but that's the price we had to pay, I guess! I really want to gush about all the details that made our stay incredible but I feel like that would be sharing their top secrets.”
Burlington VT
Starting at $192/night
If you’re looking for rustic-chic, Hotel Vermont has your answer. With their fabulously dazzling lobby welcoming you to a perfect Burlington getaway, and their modern, sophisticated rooms prepared to make your downtime as lavish as possible, Hotel Vermont is one of our favorite ways to experience the Queen City. Located on the first floor, Juniper has been serving up delicious food and creative cocktails since day one. Be sure to enjoy the fire pit patio with views of the lake and surrounding city, all just a few blocks away.
What guests are saying: “Absolutely loved the location & atmosphere of the rooms! The local goods included in the room (soap, bath robes, toiletries, books) were a charming added touch! Staff were friendly & they even have little brochures of recommendations in all parts of the city. Would absolutely stay again if I’m lucky to be in Burlington again!”
Stowe VT
Starting at $350/night
If you can’t get a jaw-dropping photo during your stay at Topnotch, the only explanation is you forgot your phone or camera. With Instagram-able opportunities around every corner, this mountain retreat is stunning in all four seasons. From the sublime pool and patio to the 35,000-square-foot award-winning spa, the excellent farm-to-table dining to the elegant accommodations - everything you’ll find at this Green Mountain haven is understandably Topnotch.
What guests are saying: “Had a fantastic time here and would definitely say it is worth the visit for a relaxing luxurious stay. The attention to detail was amazing and the staff were very friendly. Rooms were clean and the grounds were perfect. We came in an electric car (a Tesla) and they had complementary charging... that was a huge plus for us.”
Killington, VT
Starting at $251/night
Modern, luxurious comfort set in a 180-year-old historic cow barn and farmhouse on the banks of a 100-acre pond - if you’re imagining Vermont perfection, this is it. And just in case all those snapshots of rough-hewn timber beams, stone fireplaces, and red Vermont barns aren’t enough to fill up an entire album, adrenaline junkies can get their fix at Killington and Pico ski mountains, mere minutes down the road.
What guests are saying: “Beautiful boutique hotel with incredible scenery. The lake was ideal for kayaking and swimming. Hiking and biking trails. Felt like summer camp with all the extra frills. Beautiful rooms, wonderful drinks, sauna, and evening campfire.”
Peru, VT
Starting at $286/night
Seesaw’s was already a legendary local gathering spot, but the recently implemented updates, additions, and renovations have secured its impressive status throughout the next generation! These adorable and lavish cabins and suites are insanely photo-worthy, and the Warming Hut tiny house bar is downright magical. Be sure to enjoy at least one night’s dinner in Johnny Seesaw’s Restaurant complete with the original circular fireplace.
What guests are saying: “My husband and I just spent the most relaxing weekend at Seesaw's Lodge! The Lodge is absolutely stunning. All the rooms are gorgeously decorated with a woodsy yet modern style (perfect for photos). The kitchen and living room areas are spacious, cozy, and have the dreamiest window light.”
Manchester Center, VT
Starting at $280/night
The Barnstead Inn can be found in idyllic Manchester Center. The attention to detail and labor of love the owners have poured into this luxury farmhouse lodging is readily apparent wherever you point your lens. The suites are positively dazzling with amenities like copper soaking tubs, stone fireplaces, and custom-built beds. With marble-lined downtown Manchester just a short walk away, your activities and dining options are limited only by the length of your stay.
What guests are saying: “We stayed at the Barnstead Inn for a girls weekend in August 2021. It was incredible, probably my best Bed & Breakfast experience ever. Our room (the Dorset Room) was immaculately clean, the decor and bathroom were gorgeous. There was always coffee available and morning breakfast was amazing. Pop up food vendor on some evenings was great. Also loved the tavern and being able to get a drink by the fire in the evening.”
Woodstock VT
Starting at $289/night
Woodstock is a perennial favorite to top “prettiest small town in America” or “most quintessential New England village”, and many would argue that the crown jewel of this town is the iconic Woodstock Inn & Resort. Simply stunning from the moment you drive onto the property, the wide steps of the front portico, the 10,000 square foot LEED-certified spa facility, the timber-framed Red Barns - everywhere you turn is another chance for a breathtaking photo and experience.
What guests are saying: “Beautiful New England charm and elegance in a first class hotel. Location is fantastic in the heart of a quintessential town, Woodstock village. Second to none in every category a can't miss property with all the amenities. Restaurants and bars are excellent! Enjoy.”
Manchester Center VT
Starting at $311/night
Embrace your inner Gatsby at this Green Mountain mansion retreat. With wide sweeping views of the Mt. Equinox valley from virtually every room, suite, and cottage, this 30-acre estate is simply a stunner. With an annual Murder Mystery, one-of-a-kind sculptures (including a set of 20-foot golden Egyptian statues!), delicious food and drink, and the most welcoming hosts you could possibly imagine - The Wilburton is high atop our list of favorite destinations to relax and recharge in the state.
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.”
We’re no strangers to roughing it in nature. Whether we’re slogging through a 4-day section on the Long Trail, getting some dawn patrol freshies on our AT setups, or just driving home from the office during mud season - we love to get down and dirty out in the Green Mountains. That being said, if we can mix in a little luxe with our great outdoors - all the better. That’s why this high-end, yet rugged tiny house in Windham, VT has so resolutely piqued our interest.
Set back deep in a pine grove a good 100 yards or so from the closest parking spot, the Edison bulb-lit walkway to the front door is magical and transformative. Leave all your stress and complications back in the car - you’re about to set out on some serious forest bathing.
Inside, the tiny house you’ll find yourself wowed by the 17-foot ceilings and the wall of windows looking out on the trees below. In fact, every window greets you with a sea of brilliant green pine boughs and moody forest scapes. The small, yet amply equipped concrete-countered kitchen has a four-burner stove with copper backsplash, deep stainless steel sink, microwave, coffee maker, and fridge with freezer. More than enough to cook either an extravagant gourmet dinner, or to casually whip up a quick breakfast sammie for the mountain.
The sleeping loft is full height with a wonderfully comfortable queen-sized bed, end tables with charging outlets, and individual lights perfect for catching up on some much-needed reading.
If you truly can’t manage to tear yourself away from work while you’re here, there is also a workspace with an inspirational view out into nature and a blazing-fast internet connection for any emergency Zoom meetings or Slack sessions that may arise.
Downstairs you’ll find a cozy leather sofa to curl up on, as well as a chic wood and wrought iron coffee table. In the mood for a movie night? You’re in luck - the drop-down home theater projector plugs easily into your smartphone or laptop and you’ll feel like you’re in your own personal treehouse drive-in in the woods.
While everything about this tiny getaway may be breathtaking, the true pièce de résistance can be found with the 71” soaking tub in the bathroom. With more than enough room for two (and a convenient shelf for a bottle of wine and glasses), you’ll be able to feel any tension or pressure melting away as soon as you dip in.
While you wouldn’t be blamed for never leaving this peaceful abode, there is a ton to do in the surrounding area. Windham is smack dab in the middle of ski country and there are three ski resorts within a 20-minute drive, including Stratton Mountain. In the Summer, there are world-class golf courses with sweeping mountain views, as well as more hiking trails and swimming holes than you can imagine (Pikes Falls is a local favorite).
In nearby Manchester, you’ll find fine dining (be sure to check out the Crooked Ram and Silver Fork) as well as outlet shopping and The Orvis Flagship store. Closer to the cabin just a few minutes away, you’re definitely going to want to do lunch at Honey Pie, or if you’re looking to get a little fancy, enjoy dinner at their sister-restaurant SoLo Farm & Table.
The tiny house can fit up to three guests, and it is currently listed at $288 per night.
What guests are saying: “The best getaway we could dream of. Surrounded by beautiful and evolving nature, we found this cabin very charming and beautifully decorated. That bathtub is the cherry on the cake.”
All listings featured on Vermont.com are independently selected by our editors. If you book or purchase something through our links, we may earn an affiliate commission - which in turn helps support our work - so, thank you!
Is it really even a getaway if you can’t bring your pooch? We are unabashedly dog people here at the Vermont.com HQ, so we’re always on the lookout for great pet-friendly holiday choices.
Vermont as a whole is pretty dang dog friendly. It’s not unusual to encounter dogs at local breweries or farmers markets, and many of the area’s best restaurants have outdoor seating options so you can keep your pal close by. Then there are the hiking, biking, and swimming options that will keep tails wagging a mile a minute. So, while there are certainly no shortage of activities to keep your pup loving his Green Mountain adventure, what about where to stay?
Thankfully more and more lodging options keep popping up around the state that will allow you to bring a dog, but the establishments below go above and beyond to make sure your entire crew (four-legged or two) feels welcomed and special. Check out some of our favorite pet-friendly places to stay on your next Vermont getaway.
Vergennes, VT
2+ Guests | $300/night
When we tell you that Basin Harbor knows how to treat their four-legged guests, we’re not yanking your chain. With upscale amenities, including a private Lake Champlain dog beach, special K-9 welcome packages, dog walking/sitting services, and a plentiful supply of locally-made dog treats at the front desk - your pup might never want to leave. They even go so far as to throw an annual Festival of Fidos with vendors, food stands, and activities, to help celebrate their love for pups. All of this spread across 700 acres of gorgeous lake-front grounds helps make Basin Harbor an ideal and luxurious getaway for the entire family. Furry and otherwise.
What guests are saying: “Basin Harbor is one of the real gems on Lake Champlain. Amazing lake and Mountain Views and an awesome swim area. There are a lot of activities to keep everyone busy. The cabins are well kept and the marina is nearly new. The food and service were excellent!! Highly recommend BH!!”
Manchester, VT
2+ Guests | $311/night
The Wilburton’s pet motto is “More than pet-friendly, we’re pet celebrating!” and judging by the lengths they go to ensure your pup is having an unbelievable visit, we believe it! They’ve even brought on a full-time Canine Concierge, Jetson, the King Charles Spaniel. Jetson is the perfect gentleman welcome party, making sure that your dog feels warmly welcomed and at home. With 30 acres filled with stunning valley vistas, and suites, cabins, bungalows, and mansions to explore, there are plenty of places to curl up and truly relax.
What guests are saying: “Fabulous stay at this comfortable and quite unique inn. Innkeeper Melissa, doggy concierge Jetson and all the staff were delightful, welcoming and couldn't do enough to make us feel at home. Breakfasts were delicious and substantial, and the villa rooms are just perfect if you bring your dogs as the outside is only steps away. In fact, this has to be the most pet friendly place that we have ever stayed at. The Wilburton is a treasure, and we will certainly return!”
Eden, VT
Sleeps 8 | $225/night
It’s tough to say who is going to enjoy this lakefront cabin escape more, you or your pup. Found at the tip of a private peninsula on Lake Eden, there are tons of hiking, biking, and skiing trails just minutes away, and in the warmer months the boat dock is the ideal place to relax after a swim or canoe. Inside you’ll find a great kitchen space to make a delicious dinner, as well as a field-stone fireplace to lounge out in front of and play games. Again, we don’t know if these are bigger selling points for you or Fido, but either way, this home has got you covered.
What guests are saying: “Just back from another great stay at this perfectly placed lake house on a small peninsula on Lake Eden. The sights and sounds are quintessential Vermont Fall. We barely left the property during our 9-day stay. I suggest getting the kayaks and bringing your camera. Our 5-year-old loved exploring the shoreline, and the dogs were at home as well. See ya next year!”
Grafton, VT
2+ Guests | $189/night
The Grafton Inn has always been a favorite spot of ours to spend a weekend holiday, and with their inclusive pet policy, we’ve loved being able to get away for a visit, together with our dogs. Some places are pet-friendly up to a certain size dog, but here, our extra-large golden retrievers are greeted with smiles and head rubs. The nearby hiking at Grafton Trails is the perfect spot to spend an afternoon, and every shop we visited seemed to have dog treats and water bowls aplenty.
What guests are saying: “This Inn is the total package if you are looking to unplug and unwind! Beautiful buildings (yes more than 1!!!) make up the Grafton Inn, each with its own charm and personality. Guest rooms are spacious, well stocked with coffee and toiletries. Fun game room space, delicious home made cookies daily, and an amazing pub restaurant with live music!! This was a girls weekend and we had a blast!”
Stowe, VT
2+ Guests | $245/night
Pups are greeted at The Trapp Family Lodge with tasty treats, fluffy dog beds, and a cozy blanket. Once you check-in, you’ll also be given a map of the dog-friendly areas on the property, and with 2600 acres of land and trails, there are a lot to choose from! Be sure to check out the von Trapp Brewery during your stay, where you’ll always find a ton of doggy-playdate partners chilling out at the picnic tables and Biergarten.
What guests are saying: “This is a beautiful property. The location and views are epic. It is a quiet and relaxing experience overall. The trails (visited in summer) are well maintained and marked, and suitable for walking, hiking, and biking. You will feel taken away from all of your troubles and stress here.”
Manchester, VT
2+ Guests | $224/night
When booking a room at the picturesque Kimpton Taconic, keep an eye out for the Pampered Pooch package. A personalized welcome treat awaits your pup, as does an Orvis dog bed and bowls (the flagship store is right down the street), a Timberwolf braided collar, and an evening Doggie Dessert. If this is how they roll out the red carpet for canine guests, you can imagine the treatment you’ll be receiving. As they say at the Taconic, “Fido won’t be ruffing it.”
What guests are saying: “Had a great stay here! I love Kimpton hotels because I bring my well-behaved dog everywhere I go and most other hotels charge unnecessary and non-refundable fees for pets. From the moment I arrived, the staff was so friendly and efficient, from the person working the door to the front desk. My pup was greeted too and she loved it!”
Montgomery, VT
2+ Guests | $157/night
When it comes to making your dog feel welcomed, Phineas Swann is the leader of the pack. In fact, CNN has gone as far as to recognize this quaint B&B as one of the World’s 12 Most Dog-Friendly Hotels. Yeah, the world! With several stay packages geared toward making sure both you and your pup have the best getaway possible - we’re talking complimentary dog walking, treats, plush dog beds, and more - if you’re headed to Jay with your pupper, this is the place for you.
What guests are saying: “We adore this little gem and so do our dogs. The hospitality is unlike anything we’ve received anywhere else. The breakfast is delicious, the beer and wine selection is impressive, the rooms clean and they walked our dogs TWICE while we spent the day skiing. We can’t imagine staying anywhere else when we visit Jay.”
Peru, VT
2+ Guests | $286/night
With several pet-friendly cabins spread out across this rustic-chic property, your dog will fit right in and love every second of it. Located in the middle of “The Golden Triangle” there are three ski areas, tons of hiking trails, fishing and swimming galore, and just about every other outdoor activity you could ask for, practically right outside your front door. When you get back to the Seesaw’s home base at night, first grab a drink at the dog-friendly Warming Hut, followed by a decadent dinner around the stunning original hearth at Johnny Seesaw’s Restaurant. Life is good.
What guests are saying: “Seesaw's was the perfect, cozy lodge to spend a romantic ski weekend away! We stayed in the lodge itself, where the pillows and beds were super comfortable, and having a full kitchen at our disposal was very convenient. The cedar hot tub was amazing at the end of a long day on the slopes or touring around town and the onsite restaurant was a lively hub of nighttime fun. We will definitely book Seesaw's again!”
Jeffersonville, VT
2+ Guests | $197/night
With a variety of cabins to choose from, the lodgings at Sterling Ridge Resort will be the perfect getaway for all members of your pack. On the property itself, you’ll find miles of trails and hikes to explore, plus easy nearby access to some of the best hiking and biking in the area. Check out the Sterling Pond trail during the warmer months for an excellent trek your dog will love.
What guests are saying: “My family and I have been glamping for quite a few years and I’ve always brought my two dogs. This is the most dog-friendly place I’ve been to. There were lovely dog boxes waiting for them in the cabin. The pond house was perfect for us for a luxury camping experience. There were plenty of things to do and the staff was very friendly. Thank you for a wonderful experience.”
Essex, VT
2+ Guests | $181/night
The Essex Resort and Spa is renowned for their culinary excellence. The Junction Interactive Restaurant is one of our favorite places to enjoy a mind-blowing dining experience and when coupled with the hospitality and luxury of the accommodations, we look forward to our stay each and every time. And just because you’ll be staying in some sweet digs doesn’t mean you have to ditch the dog. The Essex welcomes visiting pups with their own dog toy, comfy dog beds, and of course loads of treats.
What guests are saying: “Amazing culinary hotel with great restaurant options and local scenery. We've been here a few times and we love it! Will be coming back year after year. And pet friendly too!”
Wardsboro, VT
Sleeps 4 | $176/night
Instantly feel warm and cozy in this intimate home in Wardsboro. A great yard with plenty of space for your dog to get out and run, as well as an easy-to-use electric fireplace to sit in front of at night. Wardsboro is in between both Stratton Mountain Resort and Mt. Snow, so you’ll have plenty of outdoor recreation to dive into. Or, just bring a book/dog bone and take it easy.
What guests are saying: “It was perfect for my wife and I and our dog, Rocky. The cabin was very comfortable and it was a relaxing weekend. The nearby market had everything I needed to cook a nice dinner Friday night. The cabin was very private and quiet. When I took Rocky for a walk on Saturday, one of the locals pulled up next to us and asked if he could give Rocky a dog biscuit. True Vermont hospitality! Would definitely come back.”
All listings featured on Vermont.com are independently selected by our editors. If you book or purchase something through our links, we may earn an affiliate commission - which in turn helps support our work - so, thank you!
Pure Maple Syrup. Nature’s and Vermont’s flawless addition to the culinary landscape. It’s tough to improve on the sweet perfection of some Grade A VT’s finest, and yet, each of these products below somehow have found a way to do just that.
Whether we’re talking about infusions that will leave you lovestruck, candies that always hit the sweet spot, or maple/hot sauce hybrids that will leave your mouth on fire and asking for more - it’s amazing how adaptable and complimentary Vermont maple syrup can be to a myriad of recipes.
So when the sap is flowing and the boilers are bubbling, we’re of course eagerly awaiting the first batch of syrup, but we’re also just as hyped about what Vermont Makers will create next. Here are 11 of our favorite Vermont maple products that we know you’re also going to go crazy for.
Cambridge, VT
Runamok hands down makes some of our all-time favorite maple products. Even with two massive sugarbushes of over 100,000 taps, Runamok’s products are still in such high demand that they source additional supply from trusted partners throughout the state. A quick taste of their coffee-infused syrup and you’ll be just as hooked as us. We love it drizzled over a bowl of vanilla ice cream or as a mixer for the best espresso martini ever - and it’s also perfect as a sugar substitute with your morning cup of joe.
The reviews are in: “Perfect on your waffles or pancakes, or over ice cream, or favorite dessert, or even as a sweetener to your coffee. I really enjoy the taste and quality of this organic syrup. They have many other flavors as well, but this is my favorite. I highly recommend it.”
Rutland, VT
As Vermonters, we proudly acknowledge that it doesn’t get much better than maple syrup. However, when we encounter as delicious a combination as maple syrup plus sriracha, well, that is something truly special. Sugar Bob hit upon this perfect culinary marriage years ago and we’ve been buying it by the busload ever since. We’re of the opinion that every dish is better with a little spice and heat, but we’ve been especially impressed when using Sugar Bob’s while cooking up some maple sriracha chicken wings.
The reviews are in: “Received a bottle of Vermont Maple Sriracha in a charity gift basket. It's the best! I've used it in many different recipes and it is a perfect balance between hot and just a bit of earthy sweetness. Love, love love it!”
Franklin, VT
A sprinkle or two of the Pure Vermont Maple Sugar and things are looking sweet indeed! These tiny granulated explosions of pure maple deliciousness are perfect for a myriad of baking and cooking recipes as an ideal substitute for sugar. We also find it excellent on top of a bowl of popcorn, or as part of a deep-flavored, sweet dry rub for meats.
The reviews are in: “It smells heavenly and is the perfect maple sugar to use in recipes! I put some in with apples when making apple crisp, add it to my King Arthur recipe for Vermont Honey Whole Wheat bread, add it to chocolate chip cookie recipes. It's a lovely deep caramel color and is absolutely the best maple sugar out there!”
Nestled near the base of Vermont’s tallest mountain, Mount Mansfield Maple Products has over 1000 acres of sugarbush in their care. For generations this family operation has been stewards of the land and producing some of the finest quality maple syrup in the state. One of their time-perfected products is their maple candies. While some maple candy can become brittle and dry, these candies are always just right and melt in your mouth every time.
The reviews are in: “This is wonderful! So delicious and no additives to ruin the pure maple taste. It came promptly, was fresh and I am sooooo tempted to put this on subscription so I never run out. When you simply have to have something sweet but want to avoid cane sugar, this will satisfy your craving. Yum Yum Yum!!!”
Franklin, VT
If you’ve never experienced maple cream, you’re missing out on one of the best ways out there to enjoy maple. Made fresh and without preservatives, Maple Cream is as fresh as you can get straight from the tree. Smooth and spreadable, Maple Cream is perfect for a schmear on toast, a drizzle in coffee, or just about anywhere the sweet taste of pure maple is needed. While you can find many variations of maple cream, in our opinion, one of the best is from Green Mountain Goodness.
The reviews are in: “This may be the most delicious food on the planet. It's certainly in my top 5! I have always been a fan of all things maple (as long as it was real maple) but this particular maple cream is absolutely the best I've ever had. I eat it on buttered English muffins in the morning and it is to die for! (Truth be told, sometimes I just have a spoonful all by itself.) If you are on the fence, just buy it. You won't regret it.”
Underhill, VT
Definitely one of the most unique and creative maple products out there, the Maple Seltzer Water from Sap! is a must-try. With the sole ingredient being 100% pure maple sap, the health benefits are surprising and numerous. Filled with naturally occurring electrolytes, vitamins, minerals, antioxidants, and nutrients, this tiny drink can leave you feeling refreshed and ready to tackle any Vermont adventure.
The reviews are in: “SAP Maple Seltzer is super drinkable, light, soothing on the throat with the perfect amount of carbonation, and with a subtle hint of maple sweetness. It's way healthier than ordinary sodas, and way more interesting than ordinary flavored sparkling waters. At $2.50/can it is fairly expensive, but no other soda, seltzer, or sparkling water comes even close to the drinkability and taste. I'm definitely reordering.”
Cambridge, VT
This stuff ain’t cheap, but whoowee, is it good! Made from the best of the best batches of the sugaring season, the Sugarmaker’s Cut is set aside as the perfect tasting 1% of all their syrup that year. One-hundred percent organic, and 1000% delicious, the only downside with this syrup is once you’ve tried it, good luck going back to anything else.
The reviews are in: “I've tried a lot of maple syrups, and this is absolutely the best one (they make excellent infused syrups as well). It's somehow light but also intensely maple flavored. It's pricey but so, so worth the money.”
Rutland, VT
We’ve said we love when maple syrup brings the heat, and this Sampler’s Pack from Sugar Bob’s is the real deal. Six maple-based hot sauces, including Jalapeño Maple, Smoked Maple Sriracha, and Habanero Maple, will handily add that extra kick of flavor whenever you need it. Perfect for those Hot Ones-obsessed friends and family members.
The reviews are in: “I bought this sampler pack as a birthday present for someone and it was a big hit! The smoked maple syrup was my favorite, the bbq sauce was really good too. Normally I'm not fan of hot sauce but this was sweet, spicy and smoky, perfect in marinades.”
Cambridge, VT
Speaking of gift sets, this Runamok Barrel Aged Selection is the perfect choice for the maple connoisseur in your crew. Having perfected the barrel-aged syrup infusion technique, Runamok’s trio is the ideal topper for any special breakfast, and equally suited in your next cocktail creation. Bottom line, these three barrel-aged flavors (Apple-Brandy, Bourbon, and Rum) will knock your socks off and leave you reaching for more.
The reviews are in: “Gave these as Christmas presents and ended up with playful family squabbles from those that did not receive this beautiful gift..... and it is beautiful! The packaging is elegant, presentation refined and the tastes follow suit and do not disappoint. If you are tired of the same old syrups or need an out of the box gift for that person that has everything.... you can't miss with this gourmet collection of perfection. And yes, this is now our new favorite "go to" gift for weddings, birthdays and I already know it will be on several family member's Christmas list next year! I love this product!!!”
Rutland, VT
This subtle blend of smoked maple and spices makes for an ideal snack. Perfect for on-the-go or when you just need a little afternoon pick-me-up but aren’t looking to pack on the calories or sugar. We’ve also been known to crumble these guys up and use them as a topper for fudge brownies. So, you know, the opposite of not packing on the calories or sugar. Vinyl verdict? Delicious no matter how you set out to enjoy them.
The reviews are in: “These Sugar Bob’s Finest Kind - Maple Spiced Pecans are fantastic! The pecans are wholesome and fresh and have the perfect blend of flavor and spices to make for a delicious snack. The pecans are coated with a smoked maple syrup and sprinkled with cinnamon, nutmeg, and other spices to give it a nice sweetness that isn't overpowering and a hint of spice for a well rounded flavor profile.”
Morrisville, VT
Did anyone else think the invention of squeezable ketchup bottles was downright life-changing? If so, prepare to have your worldview once again shaken. No more jiggling and fiddling with finding the one spoon that will fit into the syrup container while holding the bottle upside down for what seems like hours. No, just us? Well, in any case, this organic maple syrup from Butternut Mountain Farm is ideal to pack on camping trips, barbecues, through hikes, picnics, or anywhere else where you’d enjoy some syrup but don’t want to risk the bottle shattering.
The reviews are in: “The BEST combination of product and container! Sweet, amber ribbons drizzled on fruit or griddle cakes makes any day special!”
All listings featured on Vermont.com are independently selected by our editors. If you book or purchase something through our links, we may earn an affiliate commission - which in turn helps support our work - so, thank you!
We’re not ashamed to say it, we’re snow obsessed. As soon as the first flakes begin to fly, you’ll find us tuning the skis, double-checking the gear pack, and heading to the mountains. There is nothing quite like the excitement of a ski vacation. The anticipation, the preparation, and of course the time spent out on the hill with friends and family. The old adage is true; any day spent skiing or riding is a better day than one in the office.
With that in mind, we’re always on the lookout for the best basecamps for a VT Winter getaway, so we put together a list of some of our favorite spots to dry out the boots and call home. Whether it’s first tracks on a powder day, hot chocolate by the fire, aprés ski shenanigans with your crew - no matter how you envision the perfect ski vacation, when Winter hits, it’s time to head to the mountains. So grab your board, load up your skis, and come check out 11 of the best ski chalets, townhouses, lodges, and cabins for your next Vermont adventure.
Stratton, VT
2+ Guests | $600/night
If you want to be close to the action and not skimp on square footage, Stratton’s Village Square condos are what you’re looking for. Prime trail-front location means more skiing by day, and the village out your front door means restaurants, bars, and shops at night. If you’re looking for the ultimate in ski and aprés ski, this is it.
What guests are saying: “Quintessential Vermont skiing. Great terrain and layout. Perfect for families plenty of beginner and intermediate terrain” “Unique mountain village with cobblestone walkways and many shops and restaurants to choose from! The view from the lodge towards the mountain is absolutely incredible! It is an experience you will never forget!”
Warren, VT
Sleeps 10 | $473/night
Long Mad River Valley views abound at this modern log cabin masterpiece. A stunning commercial-grade chef’s kitchen, multiple cozy dens and hangouts, a drop-dead gorgeous master suite, and of course, easy access to all of the skiing and riding the MRV has to offer.
What guests are saying: “This house was perfect for a 5-day trip to one of our favorite places to ski. Three generations of our family occupied the house--plenty of space, great ski vibe, and great location.”
Jeffersonville, VT
2+ Guests | $399/night
Hands down the most family-friendly resort you’ll ever visit - Smugglers’ Notch is a paradise. Lodging accommodations for all group sizes, our go-to is the Kestrel 3-bedroom. An open-concept living, dining, and kitchen centerpiece is perfect for all occasions, and the vast four-bed “bunk” room is every kid’s sleepover dream. An additional queen bedroom is ideal for guest flexibility, and the master bedroom suite is a luxurious escape. Plus, walk out the door and you're on the slopes - not bad at all.
What guests are saying: “5 stars all the way. We go every year with our kiddos. It's a great family mountain with an even better ski school. We love its mom-and-pop feel. A total gem!”
Stowe, VT
2+ Guests | $148/night
On the other side of the Notch, Talta Lodge is perfectly situated for all your Stowe skiing and riding adventures. A Scandinavian modern flair can be found throughout the property and everything from the welcome lobby to the in-room gear storage lets you know you’ve chosen the right place as your base camp.
What guests are saying: “I can’t say enough great things about Tälta. This was definitely a memorable experience for our family vacation in Stowe, VT. I love everything about Tälta from the awesome location so close to Stowe mountains to the perfect amenities! We had an amazing experience with the most wonderful and caring staff!”
Killington, VT
Sleeps 8 | $649/night
This newly renovated 70s chalet is what Killington ski dreams are all about. A great bunk room, bubbling hot tub, a roaring fireplace, and it’s setting just off the access road lets you experience all the Beast in the East has to offer. We’re talking restaurants, nightlife, shopping, and of course, legendary skiing and riding.
What guests are saying: “If you’re looking for something special, seriously out of a magazine, with convenience to the slopes and Killington restaurants-unload here. The Cub House ticks every box. A fun, comfortable mountain vibe combined with huge windows that make the most of snowy evenings. Christine was a pleasure to work with and a great time was had by all. We’ll be back soon!”
Jeffersonville, VT
2+ Guests | $800/night
The cabins at Sterling Ridge are all unique and ideal for a Winter getaway, but it’s their new A-frame on the Ridge that has our jaws on the floor. This stunning mountain escape with two master suites, a luxurious cathedral ceiling great room, a sleeping loft, and a deck with endless views gives us a hankering for a powder day on the hill. Speaking of, you’re only a nine-minute drive to the Smuggs’ base lodge.
What guests are saying: “Everything was just perfect at Sterling Ridge. Beautiful cabin – super cozy, clean, comfortable. Beautiful surroundings - nice loop to walk or cross-country ski around the pond. Staff was great-thought of all the little details for a nice stay. We’ll definitely be back!”
Manchester Center, VT
2+ Guests | $280/night
If you’re looking for rustic, romantic decadence, the Barnstead Inn is the place to be. We can’t stop raving about the Hildene Suite, with its custom King-sized bed, copper soaking tub, modern slate fireplace, and that bathroom! If you can manage to tear yourself away from this luxe living, you’ll find three ski resorts within an easy 25-minute drive, including Stratton Mountain.
What guests are saying: “The Barnstead Inn is absolutely fabulous! My sister and I just wrapped our very first visit to Vermont and staying at the Barnstead Inn made the trip one to remember! The staff is just amazing and so intentional. The Arlington Room was perfect, and the outdoor fireplaces paired with a Vermont Flannel Co. blanket was oh so cozy in the evening.”
Stowe, VT
2+ Guests | $169/night
Overlooking the bustling Main St. of downtown Stowe, the Green Mountain Inn is a classic Vermont experience. Feel the charm, history, and luxuriousness even more strongly with a stay in one of their Classic Suites. If there’s snow in the forecast, it just doesn’t get more relaxing than watching it through the windows of your separate private sitting area. In the morning, you’re less than 7 miles from the gondola. Life is good.
What guests are saying: “This Inn is absolutely beautiful and amazing! I stayed here with my husband and our two girls. We just left today from being there since Friday. The staff was so friendly and helpful, and we so enjoyed the indoor and outdoor Jacuzzis they have and the outdoor heated pool! It's rare to say while being in a heated pool, we had a mini snowball fight, That was a great experience ? Being able to leave the Inn and walk into town was a highlight to our adventure, and so wonderful!”
South Londonderry, VT
Sleeps 9 | $550/night
The rustic tranquility of this home will leave you simultaneously relaxed and thoroughly speechless. The 20’ cathedral ceiling great room with floor-to-ceiling windows and a massive fieldstone fireplace might be enough, however, the entirety of the property does nothing but impress. Magic Mountain is practically right next door, and Stratton and Bromley are just 15 minutes away.
What guests are saying: “The home, with its picturesque views, peaceful surroundings, and warm rustic charm does not disappoint! We walked into the home and were immediately excited for our stay. The floor-to-ceiling stone fireplace, surrounded by the wall of windows, created a perfect backdrop to our Christmas celebration.”
Warren, VT
Sleeps 8 | $283/night
This classic Sugarbush chalet is ski-in ski-out and has stunning views to match! A full remodel in 2021 breathes new life into the accommodations, but thankfully they’ve managed to leave all of that definitive mid-century ski-house charm.
What guests are saying: “Our family of six had a fantastic time at this classically furnished and beautifully appointed cabin. It has all the amenities you would need for a fun skiing holiday. The panorama is breathtaking and the house comfortable. Randy proved a great host. We had good snow and it was possible to ski out with only one road to cross on foot, and ski back in as well, with a bit of a workout, to cap the day’s exercise. Highly recommended!”
Peru, VT
2+ Guests | $286/night
With a wild and glorious history, Seesaw’s Lodge has been reinvented and the results are remarkable! The luxurious cabins and suites are all designed to the highest of standards, yet still, emerge as supremely warm and welcoming. With three cabins and seven lodge suites, a ski vacation at Seesaw’s can fit the entire family, company retreat, or any other combination of crew you can conjure. Bromley is a mere ½ mile down the road and Magic and Stratton are all within a less than 20-minute drive.
What guests are saying: “Seesaw's was the perfect, cozy lodge to spend a romantic ski weekend away! We stayed in the lodge itself, where the pillows and beds were super comfortable, and having a full kitchen at our disposal was very convenient. The cedar hot tub was amazing at the end of a long day on the slopes or touring around town and the onsite restaurant was a lively hub of nighttime fun. We will definitely book Seesaw's again!”
Don’t forget to check out our in-depth Skiing and Riding Guide for all the latest deals, details, and information. Bring on the snow!
All listings featured on Vermont.com are independently selected by our editors. If you book or purchase something through our links, we may earn an affiliate commission - which in turn helps support our work - so, thank you!
Sugaring season is a special time of year in Vermont and as the country’s largest and best producer of maple syrup, we look forward to showing off our production process every year at the annual Maple Open House. It’s not meant to celebrate making some of that sweet syrup, but also a way to let loose at the end of a long Winter and get together as a community for some maple-based festivities.
Taking place across two weekends (this year is March 25 & 26 and April 1 & 2), you can get a tour of an active sugar shack to see the process involved in going from tap, to sap, to syrup, chow down on some Maple classics (looking at you sugar on snow with a pickle), and of course, taste the freshest and most mouthwatering maple syrup imaginable. Straight from the tree!
We’ve made a list of our favorite places to stay that are close to some of the best sugar shacks and maple festivals in the state, as well as some that offer their own Maple celebration packages. Bottom line, if you’re looking for Vermont Maple, these are the places to stay. Sweet!
Grafton, VT
2.9mi. to Plummer’s Sugar House
The Grafton Inn is the ideal home base for your Vermont Maple getaway. The rustic luxury of the rooms, suites, and cabins will welcome you to the Green Mountains and the incredibly gracious staff will make you feel perfectly at home during your stay. Be sure to take in a meal at the attached Phelps Barn for some amazing gourmet pub fare.
Just a five-minute drive from the gorgeous front porch of the Grafton Inn, you’ll find Plummer’s Sugar House. As equally quaint and picturesque as where you’ll be staying, Plummer’s has been making syrup for more than 60 years, and you can feel and taste their expertise.
What guests are saying: “The location is exactly what one would expect from a rural Vermont inn, I recommend taking the extra 5 minutes to take the slow road rather than the highway, it will set the scene perfectly, complete with opportunities to buy as much maple syrup as you want (from local independent producers, of course).”
Stowe, VT
3.9mil. to Nebraska Knoll Sugar Farm
The von Trapp family brought a taste of Austria to Vermont in the early 1940s and have been welcoming guests for over half a century since. The lodge is one of the most stunning we’ve ever stayed at and is only possibly outdone by the views of the valley below. In addition to touring the nearby sugar shacks, von Trapp Brewery should be high on your list.
Another Stowe family adding their taste to Vermont, the Coty family has been boiling and making syrup since 1980 at Nebraska Knoll Sugar Farm. Conveniently located just a few minutes from downtown Stowe as well as the Trapp Family Lodge, be sure to visit for tours, tastes, and family fun! Their maple doughnuts are to die for, so grab a few and enjoy them by the bonfire.
What guests are saying: “We visited for their maple sugaring tour and rode a bicycle. The tour was really informative and I have a whole new regard for maple sugar! The guide was kind enough to add me last minute. Beautiful property!”
Woodstock, VT
4.2mi. to Bourdon Maple Farm
Just because you’re going out exploring the woods and learning about boiling syrup doesn’t mean that you need to be roughing it when you head back at the end of the day. In fact, the award-winning suites and spa at the Woodstock Inn & Resort will help make sure that any roughing it is quickly and luxuriously forgotten. Your stay in Woodstock is bound to be something you never forget.
An organic maple farm with over 10,000 taps in their sugarbush, Bourdon Maple Farm goes all out for Maple Open House. We’re talking maple waffles and ice cream, syrup tastings, a fire pit, games and activities, and of course sugar shack tours. If you’re looking to celebrate the maple season, there’s no better place.
What guests are saying: “My wife and I spent five wonderful days here. Our room was amazing (a suite in the Tavern wing), the staff were incredibly friendly and helpful, and the atmosphere was both relaxing and luxurious.”
Manchester, VT
3.3mi. to Dutton Berry Farm
When you visit Equinox Resort you can’t help but be impressed by the history and presentation. An elegant vacation destination for past Presidents (be sure to visit Hildene - Abraham Lincoln’s son's estate-turned-museum nearby), the grand columns of the Equinox are regal and pristine. Inside, you’ll find just as stunning accommodations and a staff that will gladly guide you to the best of Manchester, and ensure your stay is nothing short of superb.
Just a few miles away from the Equinox, Dutton Berry Farm is also a local treasure. With year-round farmstore selling their berries, veggies, and baked goods, a stop into Dutton’s is always delicious. Each Spring, Dutton’s makes syrup in their sugar shack and has been for decades. Offering tours, tastings, music and activities, as well as a farm petting experience, you’ll be able to get into the full Maple celebration when you visit.
What guests are saying: “We had an excellent experience at the Equinox. The resort is well kept, authentic, surrounded by mountains, and maintains a lovely ambiance. Our room was large yet cozy, and the public spaces were beautifully decorated. The pool and hot tub are gorgeous.”
East Montpelier, VT
1.1mi. to Bragg Farm Sugarhouse
A stay in our State’s capital city of Montpelier is looking extra golden when you find yourself at this cozy cottage. Beautifully renovated yet staying true to it’s rustic charm, you’ll have everything needed for an enchanting Vermont Maple adventure at your fingertips. Just outside of downtown Montpelier, yet close enough to explore the restaurants, coffee shops, and storefronts that make this town so special. Not to mention, you’re less than 5 minutes away from a maple heavy-hitter, Bragg Farm.
Bragg Farm Sugarhouse is one of our favorite maple producers around. This is in no small part due to the fact that they make the best maple creemee we’ve ever had. But even if we don’t factor the creemee into the equation, the old-school way that Bragg Farm continues to make and produce all of their maple products leaves us as big fans. Check out their Maple Open House with tastings, tours, gift store, and of course, maple creemees.
What guests are saying: “This cottage is absolutely perfect - comfortable, charming, convenient - with the added bonus of a beautiful garden and lovely outdoor spaces. The owners were friendly and helpful. I would heartily recommend this property.”
Lyndonviller, VT
9.6mi. to Pure Gold Sugaring
The Wildflower Inn is set on the ridgeline of Darling Hill Road. With sweeping views of the stunning mountains and valley below, you’ll find yourself continually drawn to all the outdoor activities that the Northeast Kingdom offers. Sugaring season can seemingly be over in a snap up in the NEK, but when you’re enjoying your stay at the Wildflower, you’ll be sure to come back each and every year.
Pure Gold Sugaring is a 7000 tap, 4th generation sugaring operation. What was once a garage has been transformed into a modern sugarhouse, but still maintains it’s Northeast Kingdom roots. A visit during Maple Open House will find you enjoying a tour of the facilities, free maple tastings, and maple doughnuts. We’re in.
What guests are saying: “I almost don’t want to comment on how wonderful this place is, in fear of it becoming too popular…”
Dorset, VT
5.1mi. to Merck Forest & Farmland Center
The Dorset Inn is a classic Vermont beauty. The white clapboards and green shutters that help make downtown Dorset so iconic are there to greet you as you pull up to the front door. Inside, you’ll find the warm cozy interior that has been welcoming visitors for generations. The fireplaces and wide plank flooring are the perfect backdrop for a Vermont adventure. The Dorset Inn smartly goes above and beyond and offers a Maple Package with lodging and dining included, and of course, a maple goodie basket to welcome you.
Less than 10 minutes away from the Inn you’ll find Merck Forest and Farmland Center. If you have children and have not yet been to Merck Forest, do so immediately. Over 3000 acres (not a typo!) of forest, hills, trails, and meadows, Merck Forest is downright magical. With a thriving sugarbush helping to support the Merck Forest mission of sustainability, the Maple Open House is ideal for all the little maple-lovers in your family.
What guests are saying: “This is our happy place! They just know how to make people feel special and comfortable. The entire staff always go the extra mile ! The inn is beautiful, the food in their lovely restaurant and lively tavern is fantastic! Working wood burning fireplaces in both that are lit and make your dining experience even more special”
Killington, VT
18.8mi. to Baird Farm
Now it might be a bit more of a trek to Baird Farm from the door of your chalet than from some of the properties on this list, but trust us, both the house and the syrup are worth it! Perfect for large groups, this adorable ski house has a cathedral-ceilinged bunk room and two master suites making it the ideal spot for multiple families. Private, yet just a stone's throw from all that Killington has in store, you’re gonna dig it here.
Baird Farm can be found in North Chittenden, and the drive over from Killington is a beaut. Once there, you’ll find yourself in the middle of Vermont Farmland with fields, meadows, and pastures on all sides. For Maple Open House, Baird rolls out the maple red carpet offering up free rosemary maple waffles, sugar shack tours, maple-themed beer by Mount Holly Beer Co., and maple giveaways. As we said before, these folks are definitely worth the drive.
What guests are saying: “If you’re looking for something special, seriously out of a magazine, with convenience to the slopes and Killington restaurants - unload here. The Cub House ticks every box. A fun, comfortable mountain vibe combined with huge windows that make the most of snowy evenings.”
Burlington, VT
While not offering the close proximity to a sugarhouse that all the other lodging options possess, Hotel Vermont certainly makes up for it with their Spring Maple Madness Package. Starting things off with a maple cocktail upon arrival at the always delicious Juniper restaurant, followed by a jar of Sweet Abby’s Organic Maple Syrup waiting in your room. Next, you’ll enjoy breakfast for two back at Juniper (with the recommendation of the blueberry pancakes with Templeton Farms Syrup), and concluding with a Vermont Maple Sugaring Itinerary of Palmer’s Sugarhouse in Shelburne, VT. Considering that Hotel Vermont is one of our favorite boutique destinations in the State, you won’t have to twist our arm in the slightest to book a stay.
What guests are saying: “Highly recommend this hotel to experience a uniquely excellent stay in Burlington. Warm, modern, rustic vibes greet you at every turn in this thoughtfully appointed property — from the loaner bikes and local suggestion cards, to coffee and tea bar on every floor and the in-room amenities, to Sunday morning cider and cider doughnuts — someone though of every detail that might make ours stay more pleasant and it was pretty awesome. Well done!”
All listings featured on Vermont.com are independently selected by our editors. If you book or purchase something through our links, we may earn an affiliate commission - which in turn helps support our work - so, thank you!
If you’re looking for a cozy Winter getaway, the stunning fireplaces in these Green Mountain rentals are positively lit. When the snow is falling and the wind is howling, there's nothing like cuddling up in front of a roaring fire to help keep yourself toasty warm and relaxed. But whether you’re living it up solo with a book and a podcast, hosting a girl's weekend extravaganza, or throwing a decidedly epic family game night, there’s no question that a crackling fire will turn the cozy dial up to eleven.
With mammoth three-story field-stone stunners, contemporary concrete stylish masterpieces, and rustic log cabin classics, we’ve hunted down some of the most impressive fireplaces in Vermont to spend the evening in front of.
Londonderry, VT
Sleeps 9 | $550/night
The dramatic 20’ cathedral ceiling great room is only made more visually stunning by the massive stone fireplace. Surrounded by floor to ceiling windows, if you’re lucky enough to be staying here on a powder day, you’re in for a treat. With three bedrooms and three full baths, you’ll have plenty of room for friends and family. Surrounded by ski mountains, including just five minutes away from local-favorite Magic Mountain, there are plenty of activities to keep you busy and happy. Be sure to visit nearby Honey Pie for some of the best burgers and sandwiches in Southern Vermont.
What guests are saying: “The home, with its picturesque views, peaceful surroundings, and warm rustic charm does not disappoint! We walked into the home and were immediately excited for our stay. The floor-to-ceiling stone fireplace, surrounded by the wall of windows, created a perfect backdrop to our Christmas celebration.”
Peru, VT
Sleeps 23 | $2283/night
It’s not easy to make a moose look tiny, but this massive fireplace does the job. An incredible luxe-meets-rustic log cabin on 60 acres is an ideal spot for a group getaway. Situated less than half an hour from four ski resorts (the closest being five minutes down the road), this stunning home is the perfect home base for your ski holiday. The 9 bedrooms (including bunkrooms) can accommodate up to 26 people, and the heated pool, hot tub, fire pit, and game room will provide enough space to keep everyone occupied. But I mean, come on…that fireplace!
What guests are saying: “This was our third stay at this property and we had another fantastic time! It is an ideal getaway for our multi-generational family. We skied (Stratton, Okemo and Bromley), walked the trails and warmed up by the fire and in the hot tub. The cabin-like atmosphere and décor really let you know that you are away and relaxing.”
Morristown, VT
Sleeps 10 | $871/night
This home has not one, but two drop-dead gorgeous fireplaces, one inside and the other out. The living room showstopper, accented by custom timber framing and plush leather couches, is the epitome of coziness. And the rest of the property is no slouch either. A secluded 265-acre private estate, there is more than enough room to explore and spread out, and the one-of-a-kind silo housing 3 bedrooms and two bathrooms will leave you the envy of all your vacation-taking friends.
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! The grand dining area, made fires both inside and out, watching the stars and playing games in the evenings. My grandkids loved the peddle 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.”
Eden, VT
Sleeps 8 | $118/night
This lakefront gem in Eden, VT is the escape you’ve been needing. The living room fireplace is the perfect place to warm up after a long day spent walking around the lake or skiing in the nearby mountains. As an added bonus, this classic cabin is dog-friendly, so your pup can enjoy curling up and dozing fireside as well. A quick drive away be sure to visit the world-famous Hill Farmstead Brewery in nearby Greensboro, VT.
What guests are saying: “Two things you need to know…. Fireplace at night and lake in the morning! Loved the stay.”
Warren, VT
Sleeps 10 | $425/night
The fireplace in this architect-designed ski lodge might only be eclipsed by the views from the windows that surround it. From the mountainside eight-acre perch, you’ll get the feeling of being in a treetop mansion with valley and forest views from all angles. Wonderfully secluded, yet close to all the skiing the Mad River Valley offers, this five bedroom, four-bathroom lodge is ideal for multiple families and groups. A trip (or five) to The Warren Store is an absolute must during your stay - the deli is next-level.
What guests are saying: “This is a uniquely custom home that is both quirky and whimsical while also being cozy and warm. Wood abounds with many different lighting options and seating and sleeping for ten but bathrooms for less. Only one en suite bathroom (with a steam shower and big Jacuzzi tub in the master bedroom.) Lovely views nestled in the woods with a very short trip to Sugarbush. Great visit!”
Stowe, VT
Sleeps 12 | $3150/night
If you like to mix your skiing with an extra side of luxury, this is the spot for you. The Stowe Glass House is undeniably luxurious in every possible way, while still feeling downright homey and comfortable. The gorgeous, centrally-located fireplace ties together the kitchen, living, and dining rooms seamlessly, so no matter what room you’re in, you’ll always feel part of the party. Five bedrooms, a game room, sauna, heated pool, hot tub, and wine room - the amenities are too many to list, but suffice it to say, you’ll be living well when you visit.
What guests are saying: “The Stowe Glass House was lovely! The kitchen was well stocked, the instructions were very clear and the stay was great! We loved gathering by the wood fireplace after a day of skiing. The beds were very comfortable. Thanks for a great stay!”
Warren, VT
Sleeps 10 | $1200/night
This mid-century modern masterpiece has been recently renovated with complete attention to detail. Enjoy the ease of starting the gorgeous gas fireplace then kick back and relax while taking in the views from the lofted fireplace and decks. A true chef’s kitchen and four bedrooms (check out that bunkroom!) make this an ideal spot for a family trip, and with Sugarbush Resort just down the road, you’ll be coming back every year.
What guests are saying: “This property hits it out of the park. The owner is fantastic and easy to deal with, the house is ideally located for skiing and the house itself is the perfect modern ski house. All details from the boot-drying rack and spacious mud room, hot tub, overall layout (easy for adults and kids to share), kitchen design and appliances (Breville and equivalent throughout), beautiful bathrooms (even the kids mentioned how nice the towels were), huge gas fireplace, sensational views, welcome basket filled with local treats, and stocked drink fridges (not a typo - two drinks fridges) are perfectly executed. By far and away the best rental we've had at Sugarbush. Thank you!!”
Updated 5/2/23
Are you engaged (or planning on getting engaged soon) and planning a wedding in the next year? Facebook data indicates that 30% of engagements happen in November and December. Additionally, they note that the average engagement time is 14 months. That means a lot of wedding planning is going on right now!
One of the first questions the engaged couple needs to answer is “Where will the wedding take place?” Destination weddings have become very popular in recent years. One of the greatest benefits to a destination wedding is that the location is neutral – not his or her hometown, not where either set of parents now live, not even where school friends now reside. In addition, most destination weddings extend the celebration with family and friends from the usual one day or evening to multiple days. (Many couples agree that the wedding reception was over too quickly, and they wish they’d had more time to spend with their guests.)
If a destination wedding is your choice, Vermont and the Kimpton Taconic Hotel in Manchester Village are excellent choices. (Located a reasonable driving distance from anywhere in the Northeast, southern Vermont sees thousands of visitors every year.)
Let’s imagine how the perfect Taconic wedding might look. Taconic was completed in 2015 and, while offering all the modern amenities of the 21st century, it harkens back to Vermont’s grand inns of the late 19th century. With its inviting front porch and beautifully landscaped grounds, Taconic offers a backdrop for your wedding that has a fairy tale quality. The fairy tale continues in the magnificent Trillium ballroom which leads to an outdoor terrace and the expansive event lawn…and all of this in a setting that shows off the natural beauty of Vermont, from majestic mountains to crystal clear skies.
Taconic’s event planning professionals make your wedding decisions easy, starting with the room reservations. Choose your accommodation in a private cottage away from the Main House for a truly enchanted setting. As a relatively small hotel of 86 rooms, your wedding party could take over the entire hotel for a very exclusive event. Additional rooms are also available within steps of Kimpton Taconic, at The Reluctant Panther and Inn at Manchester, if needed.
Trust your reception to the hotel’s catering staff. Not only do they bring all the experience you could demand, you will discover true Vermont farm-to-table cuisine , unique and apart from typical “banquet” food. Plan your rehearsal dinner at The Copper Grouse, the hotel’s restaurant, and meet by the outdoor fire-pit for drinks after dinner. Join your guests for coffee or tea on the expansive front porch prior to a next day brunch. The hotel also has an arrangement with The Reluctant Panther, a nearby restaurant, for optional dining events.
Destination weddings are not only the kickoff for your honeymoon, but are generally a mini-vacation for your guests. Manchester, Vermont offers something special at every season. Choose your backdrop from the magnificent Autumn foliage to the snow-covered mountains to verdant Spring fields and Summer flowers. The beauty of Vermont is world renowned. Each season brings a wonderful list of activities for you and your guests. Choose winter skiing or a sleigh ride. Summer offers mountaintop picnics and fly fishing on the nearby Battenkill River. In the Fall, take a scenic drive to view world-famous foliage or spend an afternoon shopping local boutiques and designer outlets in Manchester.
Planning for your big day can be exciting and sometimes stressful. If a destination wedding in Vermont is an option you’re considering, you owe it to yourself to contact the event planning staff at the Taconic. Right now (and until April 1, 2017), the Taconic is offering a special promotion to help make your wedding even more personal. Based upon food and beverage minimums, the hotel will give you additional “perks” to make your day perfect. These special touches include options such as an upgrade to a suite for your wedding night, a 15% discount on a brunch or rehearsal dinner, or hand-passed custom cocktails or champagne. In all, there are 14 options to choose from. Reserve your date now and the hotel also invites you to visit with one free night to meet with wedding planners and discuss all the details for your magical wedding.
All listings featured on Vermont.com are independently selected by our editors. If you purchase something through our links, we may earn an affiliate commission - which in turn helps support our work - so, thank you!
It’s not a secret that the beer scene in Vermont is positively booming. With more breweries per capita than any other state, folks come to the Green Mountains from far and wide to sample the latest IPAs, find the hottest new releases, and bring home a few pints of the next best thing in brewing. It’s no wonder that a Vermont beer-cation is seen by many aficionados and casual enthusiasts alike as a veritable mecca.
Now of course, popping open a crisp lager on a hot day is hard to beat, but don’t feel that you need to wait for the dog days of Summer or Vermont Foliage to embark on your brewery odyssey. If you haven’t done aprés ski at a brewery or bierhall, it begs the question - have you really done aprés ski at all?
Whether you’re grabbing a pint after a deep day of pow, sitting by the lodge fire with a hearty porter, or tipping back a cool DIPA after a bluebird day on the hill, there’s no question that a great beer just makes it that much sweeter. Without further ado, here are a few of our favorite Vermont breweries after a day of skiing and riding.
Stowe, VT
The von Trapp family is legendary in Vermont and for far more than just their musical and theatrical fame - they brew one heck of a beer. With the desire to brew an American version of the lagers they enjoyed in Austria, the von Trapp family has created one of the best and most beautiful beirhalls in the state. Located just down the road from Stowe Mountain Resort, pop in after a day on the slopes and you’ll start to appreciate the effort and attention to detail that this brewing family puts forth.
Beer of choice: BOHEMIAN PILSNER | 5.4% ABV 42 IBU | “Our award-winning interpretation of a Bohemian Style Pilsner. Spicy, citrus peel botanicals combine with a dry, peppery finish to create a truly thirst-quenching lager. A beer that demands you take more than one sip.”
Waitsfield, VT
With soaring ceilings, impressive timber framing, and relaxing fireplaces the taproom at Lawson’s Finest Liquid is a veritable oasis. We love to post up at one of the community-style tables, put in an order of pretzels and chili, and bring on the beer flights. After hitting up nearby Mad River or Sugarbush, there’s a palpable buzz in the air at the taproom, and it just feels like you belong.
Beer of choice: Double Sunshine Ruby Red Grapefruit Double IPA | 8% ABV | “This special edition of our American Double IPA is made with ruby red grapefruit, adding an extra layer of mouth-watering, juicy, lush fruit character along with dank tropical aromas.”
Bridgewater, VT
Killington is called the Beast of the East, and after a particularly gnarly session of ripping bump runs on Outer Limits, there’s nothing like heading to Long Trail Brewing for a little R&R. The riverside taproom was modeled after the Hofbräu House in Munich, Germany, and is an absolute stunner. Of course, Long Trail is a Vermont classic, but what we love is that they keep pushing the envelope and moving forward with great new beers all the time and keeping us on our toes and on the lookout for new releases.
Beer of choice: Hibernator | 6% ABV | “A Vermont classic, built to take the bite from a cold winter night with the rich malt base highlighted by warming notes of caramel and toffee.”
Greensboro Bend, VT
Now it’s a bit of a stretch since Hill Farmstead is a solid 45-minute drive from it’s closest skiing neighbor Burke Mountain. But let’s be honest, many people have driven significantly farther distances to try the beer from Hill Farmstead (ourselves included). Hill Farmstead has won more beer-cult-connoisseur love and accolades than seemingly any other beer in the state, and with their consistent production of mind-blowingly excellent beers, we echo those sentiments. Make the pilgrimage and come up to the Farmstead.
Beer of choice: Edward | 5.2% ABV | “Edward (1917-2002) is our grandfather; Hill Farmstead Brewery rests upon the land that was once home to him and his five children. In his honor, this American Pale Ale is dutifully crafted from American malted barley, a plethora of American hops, our ale yeast and water from Edward’s well. It is unfiltered and dry hopped.”
Proctorsville, VT
Outer Limits Brewing is housed in a brightly renovated brick farmhouse and in addition to a great pint of beer, they also sling a mean pizza pie. Perfect for stopping in for a spell on the way home from riding at Okemo, Outer Limits often has great live music and is just a great all-around hang.
Beer of choice: Atmosbeer (Dark Mild) | 3.6% ABV | “The OG of session beers, our dark mild will leave you wanting more. This style lies between brown ale and porter. We have brewed our dark mild using maple sugar.”
Morrisville, VT
While some of the other brewery bierhalls can feel like stunning architectural feats, the taproom at Lost Nation feels more like a clubhouse, and we love it. Set towards the back of their brewing facility, you’ll find a simple long wooden bar and four or five low-top tables, and some damn fine beers. Serving up a great pub menu of tons of favorites, Lost Nation is the perfect spot to grab some brews and a meal after a day crushing the runs at Smugglers’ Notch.
Beer of choice: Lost Nation Mosaic IPA | 5.5% ABV |“Our single hop IPA is brewed and dry hopped with Mosaic hops. Clean and crisp with an incredible balance between juicy fruit flavors and hop bitterness.”
Waterbury, VT
What do you get when you cross one of the area's best restaurants with some of the best local beers? Prohibition Pig, of course! Conveniently located just a few miles down the road from a similar local’s favorite, Bolton Valley, Prohibition Pig’s brewery is found behind the restaurant itself and is deliciously chill and relaxed. Excellent food, outstanding beers, and a great vibe? Count us in.
Beer of choice: Winter IPA | 6.7% ABV | “West Coast Style IPA w/Cascade, Centennial & Chinook Hop”
Stowe, VT
So close to Stowe Resort, it’s practically slopeside, The Alchemist Brewery is similarly legendary. Practically revolutionizing the double IPA that is now so ubiquitous, The Alchemist has repeatedly demonstrated why they’re one of the best in the game. Their taproom is just as excellent an experience as drinking their creations, with a fun open space, epic artwork, and of course, ice-cold brews. Word on the street it’s getting even better this Summer with the addition of additional seating and event space options. We’re pumped.
Beer of choice: Heady Topper | 8% ABV | “Heady Topper is an American double IPA. This beer is not intended to be the biggest or most bitter. It is meant to give you wave after wave of hoppy goodness on your palate. Tremendous amounts of American hops will creep up on you, and leave you with a dense hoppy finish in your mouth. So drinkable, it's scary. Sometimes I wish I could crawl right into the can.”
Middlebury, VT
We’ve been massive fans of Drop-In Brewing ever since Brewmaster & Founder Steve Parkes opened in 2012. With their taproom in the perfect location to grab a growler on our way back from the Middlebury Snowbowl, we’re happy to have another excuse to stop in and chat. The beers here are fresh and classy and are the perfect bookend for a great day of skiing and riding.
Beer of choice: Red Dwarf | American Amber Ale | 5.2% ABV | “Red Dwarf has a well-balanced caramel malt flavor and complex hop profile, lending a citrusy, floral flavor and aroma. The finish is clean and dry. This beer is a perfect companion to virtually every meal.”
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With ski season in full swing, there’s no better time to book your Green Mountain getaway and imbibe with a growler or two. Be sure to check out of full Skiing and Riding Guide for a deeper dive into the season. And as always, stay up to date on the latest Deals and Packages for your next Vermont adventure.
All listings featured on Vermont.com are independently selected by our editors. If you book or purchase something through our links, we may earn an affiliate commission - which in turn helps support our work - so, thank you!
Hitting the slopes in the Winter months in Vermont isn’t everybody’s cup of tea. If you're someone who doesn't plan on doing any skiing or riding any time soon, don’t let that stop you from still planning an epic Vermont Winter getaway. There are always a ton of options to get outside and enjoy the great outdoors this Winter - with the added bonus of never having to worry about lugging skis to the mountain or finding parking. Whether you’re dog sledding in Warren, tubing on Stratton, Ice skating in Manchester, or hot-tubbing in the Kingdom, just because skis and boards aren’t on your feet doesn’t mean you can’t have a blast. Check out some of our favorite “ski-free” outdoor Winter activities and get out there and have some fun!
Picture gliding across snowy fields and country lanes, with the crisp night air filled with snowflakes. Jingle bells ringing and a cup of warm hot chocolate in your hands. A quick stop at a warming cabin and back again into the moonlit night. Equal parts romantic and exhilarating, but also a perfect outing for a group or family. Many inns and farms offer traditional horse-drawn sleigh rides, but two of our favorites are at Taylor Farm in Londonderry, and Gentle Giants in Stowe.
If you've never tried it, snowmobiling is easy, comfortable, and absolutely addictive. The Vermont Association of Snow Travelers (VAST) maintain over 5,000 miles of well-marked trails. Some winter resorts offer guided rides to get you started, including Stratton Mountain Resort in Southern Vermont and Sterling Ridge Resort in the North.
The sight (and sound) of 16-dog teams racing over a frozen lake or through the woods is hard to match. If you’re looking for an epic adventure of the canine variety, look no further than a dog sled tour. Umiak Outdoor Outfitters runs several great routes, including ones in Warren and Waterbury, but our favorite way to hit the dog trail is at the Stowe Evening sled rides.
If you’re looking for a killer workout that is also a ton of fun, you’re in luck. Vermont's cross-country skiing centers offer a wide range of peaceful escapes from groomed trails over open meadows to sheltered tracks through whispering pines. Or if you prefer, you can leave it all behind on a pair of lightweight snowshoes and head out into the backcountry. And while these activities might sound downright transcendental (they are), you’re also burning a boatload of calories! That’s a win-win in our book. Three classic spots are Viking Nordic Center in Londonderry, Woodstock Nordic Center, and the trails at the Trapp Family Lodge in Stowe.
“You mean, sledding?” Well sure, sledding is great and there are a ton of famous sledding hills throughout the state, but we’re talking about Snow Tubing and it's not just for kids anymore. Snow Tubing is sledding’s big brother, but it’s the perfect activity for families and friends of all ages. Flying down a hill on a snow tube with the wind whipping through your hair, racing your friends down, then taking a lift back to the top to do it all over again. For a great setup, be sure to look into what they're doing at Stratton Mountain Resort. At the base of the Sun Bowl, with four massive lanes, you're going to have an absolute blast. We also love how the folks at Smugglers’ Notch do tubing with two separate courses, as well as Glow Tubing where at night they set up a ton of brightly colored LEDs to really get the tubing party started!
It’s a classic for a reason, ice skating is still a blast! Whether you’re hockey-stopping, setting new speed records, or dialing in the triple axle - time seems to fade away when you’re out on the ice. Be sure to check out the complimentary ice skating setup at Stowe at the base of the Spruce Peak Village.
If you’re looking for a next-level thrill, or to really drop some jaws on your next Instagram reel, Ice Climbing is the way to go. While it may look hardcore and extreme, ice climbing can actually be a great sport to get into as a beginner, especially when you take a clinic or tour with a great instructor. We love setting a route to the ice in Smugglers’ Notch and Lake Willoughby, and the folks at Green Mountain Rock Climbing Center are some of the best folks imaginable to show you the ropes.
Ice fishing in Vermont can be rugged, or meditative, or even downright luxurious. And often times it can be all three. So whether your setup is a bucket and a hole, or a shanty with a flatscreen and WiFi - your day out on the ice is bound to be a catch. If you want to increase your odds of bringing home a trophy-sized keeper, join up with the ice fishing tours with our friends at 3rd Alarm Charters.
One of our favorite outdoor activities each Winter is to hit the trails on a fat bike. Fat biking refers to the larger width of the tire than that of a standard bike, which helps you float on some snow, as well as power through other snowpacks. Pretty much all the places that we love to trail ride or mountain bike in the warmer months also have fat biking, so there’s a ton of great variety and terrain to choose from. Be sure to check out Cady Hill in Stowe, as well as Stratton Mountain Resort for some great options.
After a day or two of checking off all of the activities listed above, you’ve definitely earned a little rest and relaxation. What better way to lean into it than an afternoon at an outdoor hot tub? Perhaps a pint of local IPA or glass of bubbly at your side, and the stress and efforts of the day just seem to melt right away. Some of our favorite hot tub locales are at The Top Notch in Stowe, as well as the Pump House at Jay Peak. Ahhhh…we could get used to this.
As always, be sure to stay up to date on all the latest events and activities here in the Green Mountains, and check out our Calendar of Events.
All listings featured on Vermont.com are independently selected by our editors. If you book or purchase something through our links, we may earn an affiliate commission - which in turn helps support our work - so, thank you!
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!”
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Stratton in the Summer is a complete stunner. The tallest peak in Southern Vermont is mutiple captivating shades of brilliant green, and any heat or humidity you may have been feeling at home is quickly forgotten about amongst the cool mountain breezes. Outdoor adventures and rugged mountain experiences by day - refined dining and lush accommodations by night. This is what a Vermont-weekend getaway is supposed to be.
If you're looking to make the most of your time in the hills of Southern Vermont, our guide below is absolutely packed with heart-pumping adventures and tucked-away gems. Ready to elevate your getaway game? Stratton will absolutely show you how epic a weekend in Vermont can be. Let's dive in!
After a long work week, the scenic drive up into the Green Mountains is relaxing and almost meditative, but that doesn’t necessarily mean you’re ready to party hearty upon arrival. We prefer taking things nice and easy and having a low-key first night. First up, checking in.
With nearly a dozen varieties available (from inns to hotels, townhouses to villas), there’s a lodging option for every size group or family. One of our faves is found in the rugged luxuriousness of the Hearthstone Lodge. Centrally located for all Stratton-based activities, the Hearthstone is a towering stone and timber beauty reminiscent of grand Western lodges. With two and three-bedroom units (all fully outfitted with cozy fireplaces, kitchens, and picturesque balconies) there is plenty of room to spread out over the weekend and deeply relax. More on this later.
After dropping off your bags, you’re going to want to make your way across the street to the Fire Tower Restaurant and Tavern. A Stratton Village staple for years, the Fire Tower is one of our favorite spots for a great cocktail and meal. There are several gas firepits on the front patio, and starting off with a pre-dinner drink is always recommended. Fire Tower does cocktails right with fun and creative offerings that change with the season, but we’ve always been partial to their Bacon Old Fashioned (House Infused Bacon Bourbon, Maple Syrup, Muddled Cherry & Orange, Bitters). You’ll want to move inside for dinner - both the tavern and main dining room are warm, welcoming, and comfortable - where you again can’t go wrong with any of the selections. Offering a continually evolving menu, punctuated with eclectic specials and equally delicious favorites, this is the exact welcome meal you needed.
Making your way back to the lodge, you’ll continue to relax and unwind as you find yourself out on Hearthstone’s heated patio enjoying their year-round heated outdoor pool, hot tub, and sauna. The summer stars and warm waters sure go a long way in melting away any remaining city stress. Life is good.
Following a great night’s sleep filled with that fresh mountain air, our suggestion is to again head out into the Stratton Village and grab breakfast at the Stratton Mountain Deli. Located about halfway down the pedestrian-only shopping and dining thoroughfare on your right-hand side, the Mountain Deli serves up the perfect breakfast to fuel your upcoming adventures. We’re fans of the Sloppy Jose breakfast bowl (chorizo, avocado smash, pepper, onion, and cheddar), but there are a host of veggie, vegan, and sandwich options to choose from as well.
Following a leisurely breakfast and coffee out on the deli’s patio, you can stroll through the village and over to the Gondola. Running all Summer long, the Gondola affords unbelievably stunning views of the entire surrounding mountains and valleys below, but for now, we’re suggesting a ride as a means to attend a high-altitude yoga class!
That’s right, your next Stratton activity is Mountain Top Yoga, a 90-minute relaxing yoga class where you can recharge with a sun salutation atop Southern Vermont’s highest peak. This mid-morning yoga class is held every Saturday and Sunday on a massive wooden deck where cool mountain breezes and sweeping Green Mountain vistas help bring you to a place of Zen. Namaste indeed.
For the afternoon, we suggest one of three different paths to choose from, starting with a round of golf on the 27-hole championship course. Featuring three distinctive 9-hole settings, Mountain, Lake, and Forest, the Stratton Golf Course has played host to six LPGA tournaments, and takes you on a tour of undoubtedly one of the most picturesque courses imaginable. Golf almost always has dramatic views and scenery, but Stratton takes it to the next level.
And speaking of taking it to the next level, you could also find yourself ripping berms and boosting kickers at Stratton’s Bike Park. First opened in 2019 and expanded each year, Stratton now offers up over 10 miles of lift-service downhill mountain biking excellence. Crafted by the premier trail makers at Sinuosity, there are trails and options for every level rider and age group. We’re talking big hits, flowy singletrack, and technical rock gardens. There’s nothing quite like the excitement of tearing down the mountain, through the trees and meadows, and just having a blast!
Alternatively, if you’re feeling like a little retail therapy might better suit your needs, Stratton has you covered there as well. The Village Shops are an excellent way to spend a few hours, perusing shops like Burton and The North Face, and one of our favorites; First Run. You’ll have no problem finding a mountain memento or two to bring home.
No matter which option you choose to pursue, you should 100% plan on wrapping up the afternoon with a massage at the Sports Center. With a traditional Swedish massage option, as well as Deep Tissue or Sports massage varieties, any knots or bumps from the day's activities will be skillfully eased away. Be sure to call in advance to reserve your session.
Saturday Night:
There’s no better way to finish a great day than with a high-end culinary experience and for this, we recommend a reservation at Verde. Whether you’re inside at a table or booth, or out under the stars on the fire-lit patio, Verde impresses. An extensive wine selection pairs perfectly with their seasonal offerings, and the ambiance is spot-on. Go on, have another glass of wine with dessert, you’re on vacation.
Sunday Morning:
Sunday mornings are meant for Brunch and subsequently, we advise finding a table at Benedict's. A menu filled with breakfast and brunch classics and twists on classics, we like to dive into one of their Skillet plates, the Three Piggies (kielbasa, North Country Smokehouse bacon, ham, and VT cheddar, served with a three-egg scramble with house potatoes). Alternatively, the Cali Benedict (sautéed spinach, tomato, avocado, hollandaise sauce, and local microgreens) or Brioche French Toast are similarly delicious. No matter what you decide, you’re going to leave satisfied - and full!
Which leads us to our next calorie-burning adventure, the Fire Tower hike. Now depending on how vigorous you’re feeling (or how many benedicts you ate), you can either hike up from the base lodge (see trail maps for route options), or you can take the gondola up to the summit and begin your hike from there. From the summit, follow the trail signs for the Fire Tower where a 1.5mi. out-and-back trail through the woods awaits. A beginner and family-friendly pathway, you’ll encounter a tight tree-lined forest path, with log platforms, impressive rock formations, and excellent views. However, the true payoff of this hike is the Fire Tower at the end. Climb the tower on a clear day and you’ll be able to see a stunning 360-degree view.
Sunday Afternoon:
You’ll most likely be looking to cool down after your summit hike and we’ve got just the right spot. Get changed into your swim trunks again and just a short drive past the Sun Bowl you’ll find a cascading 20-foot waterfall and a local’s swimming hole called Pike’s Falls. The walk down is through a path in the woods with large boulders and tree roots making for a striking natural staircase. Once down to the river below, enjoy swimming in the brisk mountain water, gliding down the natural rock water slide, or jumping off the varying heights of the falls itself - no matter which way you get in, you’re going to emerge feeling cooled down and completely refreshed.
It’s about time to check out and head back home, but we have one more bonus recommendation for your trip back. Located in Rawsonville in the foothills of the mountain, you’ll come across a remodeled gas station-turned-eatery called Honeypie. Hang a right, grab a spot, and fuel up your body for the trip home. Honeypie is something special. The Vermont As Funk Burger (double burger with sautéed mushrooms, caramelized onions, fried egg with melted Woodcock Farm Timberdoodle) is mind-blowing (as is most of the menu), and the Salted Caramel milkshake is a lesson in decadent perfection. Also, no matter how full you might feel, grab a slice of the eponymous honeypie…unreal.
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Now that’s one heck of a way to spend a weekend, but one of the things we love most about our time at Stratton is that there’s always something new happening and somewhere exciting to explore, and that leaves us always pumped for our next adventure.
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One of the best ways to appreciate autumn in Vermont is to fully immerse yourself in nature-- or, in other words, take a hike! As the fall foliage season approaches, we’ve decided to compile a list of ten of the best hikes in southern Vermont so that you and your family can make the most of your trip together.
1. Equinox Mountain, Manchester, VT -- All levels of difficulty
Equinox Mountain (or Mount Equinox) is the second highest mountain in southern Vermont, and is the highest peak of the Taconic Range at 3,840+ ft. in elevation. Manchester sits in the valley on the east side, and there are plentiful hikes to do both around the base of the mountain as well as up it. Trips to and around Equinox Pond at the base of the mountain are excellent for beginners and hikers of all levels, and offer stunning views of the mountain from its base. Further up are Robin’s Lookout, an intermediate hike that goes part way up the mountain, as well as a more difficult hike up to the mountain’s summit-- about 5.4 miles round trip. Both offer gorgeous views of Manchester and the valley below.
2. Lye Brook Falls, Manchester, VT -- Beginner
This easy hike of about 4.6 miles round trip ends at a cascading 125 ft. waterfall-- one of the highest in Vermont. The trail is built upon old logging roads and railroad grades, and follows a steady incline. One may have to cross the occasional stream on the way up, so the appropriate footwear is highly recommended.
3. Prospect Rock, Manchester, VT -- Intermediate
Although steep at points, this 3.6 mile round trip hike is definitely worth the view. At the top, where the “Prospect Rock” is located, one can look out onto the town of Manchester in the valley as well as Equinox Mountain to the west, making this a beautiful spot for a sunset hike. One can also drive up to the top (4 wheel drive recommended!) In the winter, this hike is a popular spot for snowmobiling as well.
4. Bromley Mountain, Peru, VT-- Intermediate
In the summer and fall, when it is not an active ski resort, this 5.2 mile round trip hike offers gorgeous views of the surrounding mountains in all directions. To the north, one can see Killington and Okemo; to the south, Stratton; to the east, Magic and on a clear day, even New Hampshire; and to the west, Equinox and Mount Aeolus.
5. Stratton Mountain, Bondville, VT -- Intermediate
Like Bromley Mountain to the north, Stratton Mountain doubles as a ski resort in the winter. Parts of the hike are steep, although worth it to see the views from the summit and the firetower. The hike itself is 7.6 miles round trip, although one can also stop by Stratton Pond on the way back down for a bit of added mileage.
6. Baker Peak, Mt. Tabor, VT -- Beginner/Intermediate
This 5.6 mile round trip hike follows a gentle incline to its peak. At the summit, one can see Dorset Peak in close proximity to the southwest. A word of caution: if raining, be careful at the peak, for the rock becomes rather slippery. For a bit of extra scenery and mileage, Griffith Lake is also accessible from the trail.
7. Little Rock Pond, Mt. Tabor, VT -- Beginner
An easy hike, being only about 4.0 miles round trip, this trail leads to a small pond with beautiful views. One of the most hiked trails in southern Vermont, this trail is perfect for a walk with the family
8. Haystack Mountain, Pawlet, VT -- Intermediate
Although steep towards the top, the view at the summit of Haystack Mountain is completely worth the extra bit of effort. Most of the trail follows a steady incline upwards through the forest to stunning views of picturesque Pawlet and the Taconic Range. Only about 3.0 miles roundtrip, this hike is perfect for families who want a bit more of a challenge.
9. Merck Forest and Antone Mountain, Rupert, VT -- Beginner and Intermediate
Merck Forest is the perfect place to take a walk with little kids! This lovely spot is home to a little farm in the hills of Rupert as well as plentiful trails for walking, snowshoeing, and cross country skiing. For a more scenic look at the Adirondacks, as well as a longer hike of about 5.0 miles round trip, head up to Mount Antone. Access to this hike from the farm is easy, as it follows old roads out across the preserve. Maps and more trail information are available at the nature center at the front gate.
10. Bald Mountain “White Rocks”, Bennington and Woodford, VT -- Intermediate
This hike is accessible from two sides-- one from Bennington and the other from Woodford. From the Bennington side, this hike is about 8.0 miles round trip, which is longer than the Woodford counterpart of about 4.0 miles round trip. Just before the top are the “white rocks” the mountain earns its nickname from, at at the top are sweeping views of the town of Bennington, Mount Anthony, and New York.
Whatever path you choose for your next Vermont adventure, we wish you luck and hope you enjoy the fall foliage while it lasts!
Take a hike recently? We'd love to see! Send your photos to [email protected], tag us on Instagram @wearevermont, or message us on Facebook. Be sure to include your name and the photographer's, the date, and the location!
Ok, we may be a bit biased, but we think the best place to be during the winter months, is Vermont! Soon we’ll be covered in a blanket of white stuff and visitors from all over the world will come to enjoy our winter wonderland. One of the best things about a winter vacation in the Green Mountain State, is the variety of places to stay – from slopeside condominiums and lodges, to luxurious hotels, economic motels, intimate bed and breakfasts, and delightful old Vermont inns. In an effort to help you experience one of the most popular seasons in Vermont, here is a list of some of our favorite places to stay during winter. Enjoy this year’s ski season in Vermont!
Stratton Mountain Resort – Bondville, VT – 800.STRATTON – Website – Facebook
Located in beautiful southern Vermont, Stratton Mountain Resort is a four-season destination known for its first-class skiing and snowboarding. It’s a great winter vacation destination for all ages and offers a wide selection of lodging choices throughout the resort. Enjoy home-away-from-home style accommodations with their many Stratton hotels and condo rentals, hide away in a private and secluded location, or live it up right in the heart of the village. Choose from a variety of floor plans and Stratton lodging options suitable for a romantic weekend, family vacation, or a getaway to Stratton Mountain with friends. With so many options available, we’re sure your winter vacation in Vermont will be one to remember!
Smugglers’ Notch Resort – Jeffersonville, VT – 866.628.1770 – Website – Facebook
Smugglers’ Notch Resort, also known as America’s Family Resort, has been redefining the family vacation for over 50 years! Located in northern Vermont, you can choose from condominium options within an easy walk or on-demand Resort Shuttle ride to all Village amenities. Stay in one of their convenient, cozy, family-style, condominium homes, each with fully equipped kitchen facilities and more. From their award-winning children’s programs for ages 6 weeks to 17 years, to entertainment designed for families and just for adults, Smugglers’ Notch Resort is a destination your entire family will enjoy!
Northeast Kingdom – East Burke, VT – 800.884.8001 – Website – Facebook
Located in the northeastern region of Vermont, the Northeast Kingdom offers breath-taking scenery, outstanding lodging and dining, ecotourism and agritourism, Vermont-made products, and recreational opportunities that have gained the area national and international recognition. Whether you’re dreaming of a cabin in the woods, a cottage on the lake, a cozy room at the inn, a resort stay, or a room on the farm, you can find it in Vermont’s Northeast Kingdom. With so much to do in the area, the key to a great stay is often choosing the perfect host, and in the Northeast Kingdom, you’re not just a “tourist,” you’re a guest.
Lake Morey Resort – Fairlee, VT – 800.423.1211 – Website – Facebook
Located off exit 15 on I-95, Lake Morey Resort is a great Vermont family fun destination, providing the perfect family getaway any time of the year. Lake Morey Resort offers 130 guest rooms and suites, with over half featuring stunning views of the lake. Their large rooms and multi-room suites are ideal for families, or you can stay next to the Resort in their fully-furnished Lakehouse and Cottage. Offering packages for family vacations, groups, conferences, weddings and family reunions, and with activities to keep everyone entertained, Lake Morey Resort is a destination your entire group will enjoy.
Stoweflake Mountain Resort & Spa – Stowe, VT – 800.253.2232 – Website – Facebook
Stoweflake resort is a full-service, year-round luxury property featuring a 50,000 square foot world-class Ayurvedic spa, an award-winning restaurant, and a state-of-the-art Conference Center. As a bonus, Stoweflake is dog-friendly! Your dog will have a great time on the extensive dog trails, located on their 60 acres of wide-open space. The resort offers 120 luxury guest rooms and suites, and their townhouses offer an exceptional alternative to traditional hotel accommodations – ideal for families, a group of friends, or guests who just want a little extra privacy and/or space. Whether you are looking for outdoor adventure or a romantic, relaxing escape, Stoweflake promises to exceed your expectations.
Not a skier? No problem! There are plenty of winter fun activities in Vermont for the non-skier. Find out the latest snow conditions with our Ski & Snow Report. Where are your favorite places to stay in Vermont during the winter?
Featured Photo Credit // Eric Fitzgerald Photography
Visitors agree. Vermont in the fall is a “must see.” The mountains have turned from summer green to fall’s magnificent red, orange, and gold. The air is fresh and cool and fall festivals entice from all over the state. For true Vermont hospitality and warm, country charm, the Barnstead Inn is the perfect lodging choice to experience Vermont in the fall. Located just two blocks from Manchester Center, the Barnstead Inn offers a quiet retreat from the bustle of the village. Feel a part of Vermont history in the 1830s carriage house which comprises the inn. The remaining rugged beams are a clear reminder of the past. However, nothing else about the inn is old-fashioned. Rooms each have private bath, air conditioning, cable, thermostat, courtesy coffee, wireless Internet access and cozy beds to welcome you back at the end of each busy day.
And days in Manchester can be as busy as you like. Take a hike along well-marked, local trails and enjoy the spender of fall foliage. Shop in Manchester’s Designer Outlets or the many other uniquely Vermont shops. The area also offers exceptional dining options to suit all tastes and pocketbooks. Not quite sure where to start? Inn staff is ready to help you with your plans.
During the fall, you have even more activities to choose from with local festivals such as the Bennington Quiltfest, Peru Fair, Manchester Fall Art & Craft Festival, Mt. Snow Oktoberfest, and so much more. For a full list of fall festivals, check Vermont.com’s Fall Festivals page or go to the Calendar of Events.
Need your own vacation now that the kids are back in school?
The Tyler Place Family Resortlocated in Highgate Springs, VT is hosting their very first Late Summer “Food, Wine & Brews Retreat for adults. The Tyler Place is inviting visitors to enjoy food, farms and fun in their “Tyler Place Taste of Vermont Celebration”
What a perfect getaway for just the two of you. The retreat runs from September 5-12th and you can choose from their all-inclusive packages of 3 days, 4 days or weekly specials. You can enjoy local farm and vineyards tours, excursions to Quebec wineries and cafe and art studios during your stay. Enjoy some Vermont cider or beer and snack on some Vermont Cheese and artisian flatbread cooked in a wood fired, outdoor oven.
In addition to all of the special features the package also includes cottage or inn accommodations with housekeeping, three daily meals, fitness classes, waterfront and pool activities, sports, artistic and culinary sessions, nightly entertainment and your very own one speed bike to ride around the resort.
This event is goes above and beyond the resort’s usual summer programming to showcase the local bounty of food and drink, featuring some of Vermont’s finest cheese, beer, wine and cider.
The Tyler Place has been ranked among the Top 10 Best All-Inclusive Family Resorts in the US by Family Vacation Critic. Call 802-868-4000 or visit The Tyler Place Family Resort for more information.
So what are you waiting for? Book your romantic get away now.
Maple Syrup. Farm to table dining. Apple orchards. Craft Beer. All world-class products easily associated and warmly linked to Vermont. But wine and vineyards? You better believe it. With over 15 vineyards currently calling the Green Mountains home – and more joining them each year – Vermont is quickly becoming a destination for oenophiles from around the globe. We spoke with Shelburne Vineyard’s Director of Marketing and Events, Gail Albert about the coming harvest, the challenges of marketing a Vermont wine, and the camaraderie between the Vermont vintners.
Vermont.com // Vermont is known for many wonderful things, but a long growing season isn’t particularly one of them. What kind of grape can survive a Vermont winter?
Gail Albert // The first grapes we had planted were New York State hybrids, and they were grapes that did well in this region, but if it got to be 15 degrees below zero, they would lose their buds and we wouldn’t be able to have a crop. Then, in 2008, some new varieties were developed in the mid-West that were hearty down to 30 degrees below zero. When those grapes began to be available we knew that we could make some amazing wines in this region. With these types of grapes we’re even able to make a mid-winter ice harvest and produce a whole new variety of wine.
VTC // How is the relationship between the vineyards? Are techniques and processes treated as closely guarded secrets?
GA // It’s very interesting because Ken [Gail’s husband and founder of Shelburne Vineyard] had worked all his life in Corporate America, where it was very secretive and the sort of world where if you leave, you lose the keys that same day. But the wonderful change for us has been that we’re all learning together. Years ago, when we first started growing grapes in Vermont, even before there were a great number of vineyards, those of us who were doing this were like pioneers, always getting together and tasting each others wines or talking about different varieties of grapes.
Because everyone’s land is different; the terroir of the grapes affects the way the grapes taste, the winemaker affects the way the grape tastes, the weather and micro-climates of each vineyard – everything changes so we don’t really need to be secretive because we’re each making a different product even if we’re making the same type of wine. It’s been an extremely nice camaraderie and very helpful and instrumental in each vineyards growth.
VTC // What are people’s reactions to Vermont made wines?
GA // Well, I think that we would like to put ourselves in the position to be as successful in the world picture as Vermont brewers have been. Vermont beers are really on the map and Vermont wines haven’t fully gotten there yet. We’re working towards that by having better and better wines each year, but I think that there is something about beer that people are more willing to try the craft varieties. People just don’t think of Vermont as a place for wine yet. There are pockets that people think of as wine regions; Europe, Australia, California, and maybe parts of Virginia and Ontario – and we’re trying to expand upon that mindset.
The challenge for us here in Vermont is that we can’t grow the grapes that people are familiar with for the most part. We grow a little bit of Riesling, which is a pure European variety of grape, that people are very familiar with. But that’s probably the only pure European variety that can thrive here. We make some amazing varieties that people would compare to their current favorites, but we hesitate to say “This is like a Pinot Noir” or “This is like a Chardonnay” because we want people to appreciate it for what it is. On the other hand, people come here and they’re looking for what they’re familiar with. One of the reasons that we decided that we really needed to open a tasting room is because if people have the chance to taste them, they can really fall in love with new wonderful varieties and broaden their horizons.
The Fall harvest has just recently begun at Shelburne Vineyards – definitely get in touch to learn more about the process and even to join in. From what we understand the Winter Ice Harvest is a beautiful event as well, not to be missed – just slightly colder. Make sure to stay tuned to blog.vermont.com as we have several articles coming up that will follow the winemaking process throughout the year at Shelburne Vineyard.
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Shelburne Vineyard is located at 6308 Shelburne Rd. (Rt. 7) in Shelburne, Vermont. They are open seven days a week from 11AM-6PM and offer tours every hour from 1PM-4PM. It’s always great to see folks who are this passionate and knowledgeable about their craft. Stop in and say hi, you’ll be glad you did.
It’s a dangerous thing to wake up feeling ambitious. Starting off innocently enough, with memories of the night before (a Friday) reminding me that we had made vague plans to go hiking, I chose to actually get out of bed when I woke up, instead of pretending to sleep till noon. The dog had a pretty rough week after all (travel schedules and foul weather had played an active role in keeping him indoors) and he certainly deserved some time to let loose and romp through the canine frustrations surrounding his sedentary week. A hike would surely do wonders on my end as well, aiding in those newly minted plans to start getting in a shape other than rotund for ski season. With my girlfriend starting her first ever teaching position at UVM on Monday, I knew the bright sun and quickly vanishing opportunities for hiking freedom would make her an easy sell. All of this plus, the house was a mess and despite the hypothetical schedules proposed in homes across the nation, nobody actually wants to clean on the weekend.
We decided to recruit an additional member to our hiking party, a good friend of ours, a programmer. I mention his occupation for two reasons; 1. He is responsible for much of the new look and feel to Vermont.com, which warrants significant recognition, and 2. As a programmer, there is almost no chance that he went to bed before 4 in the morning, and an early wake up call to go hiking would be much appreciated, I’m sure. With surprisingly little (dare I say, frustratingly little) resistance, he was on board. We picked him up 10 minutes later.
Our destination for the afternoon was the hiking trails of Smugglers’ Notch. We had frequently enjoyed the hike to Sterling Pond (in fact it was one of the first places we had taken our dog as a puppy) and really can’t recommend it highly enough. Offering great views of the Notch Road, Mt. Mansfield, and the surrounding valleys, it is a relatively mellow, yet adventurous hike. Sterling Pond acts as a great motivator to get to the top and is an ideal spot to picnic before you begin your descent. Clocking in at approximately two hours roundtrip, it’s a great hike for the whole family. We had however, just recently done the Sterling Pond route with visiting family members and wanted to try something new.
With our history in the area being solely at Sterling Pond, we hadn’t really packed much besides a camera and a bottle of water filled to the halfway point and had no reason to think we would want anything more. This is called foreshadowing.
Hell Brook Trail is absolutely beautiful, let me state that first, foremost, and most emphatically. Whether you are lucky enough to be able to enjoy the Vermont landscape frequently, or if you are a newcomer to our state – Hell Brook Trail is stunning. It is 1.3 miles affectionately labeled “Straight Up” or “Straight Down” depending on the leg of your journey. The sign at the beginning suggests that it will take roughly 3-hours round trip. Perfect.
Once on the trail you are immediately immersed in quintessential Vermont forest. A log bridge over a babbling brook, huge, beautiful maples, birches, and pines, boulders and caves – essentially the backyard that each of us dreamt of as a child. A short distance into the hike is a 20-foot waterfall. At this point, we were all still fresh-legged and enthusiastic and spent a good 15-20 minutes climbing around, exploring, and seeing if our bushwhacked route would meet back up with the path (it did not). Happily making the detour back to the trail, we began to hike.
On first assessment, at only 1.3 miles, it barely seemed appropriate to call it a hike – more of a jaunt really – however, once past the waterfall and only several hundred yards in, we could see that calling this a climb might be a bit more apropos. It was straight up. More common to be on all fours than upright, this was one tough ‘mudder. In those rare sections when you could walk, the loose rock, moss, mud, water and roots all made valiant and persistent efforts to bring you back down. The areas where you saw a clear and solid foothold were juuuuuust a little too far apart, turning them into a vertical lunge rather than a set of stairs. Pouring sweat and feeling as though my quads might spontaneously combust, we pushed on. And on.
Through the agony however, was an amazing experience. It was a perfect day, not a cloud in the sky and mid-70’s, with a nice breeze to keep you cool. There were huge rock outcroppings to stand beneath and the brook from Hell Hell Brook bouncing effortlessly nearby. Many times there were openings in the canopy and the views were unbelievable; sheer cliff faces and towering peaks of Spruce and Maddona across the notch. With hawks circling lazily overhead and the sun shining warmly down, it was truly ideal.
We continued. With the three-hour roundtrip time estimate in mind, we had decided to start a timer at the trailhead to better gauge where we were. We figured on an hour and half to the summit, so as the time crept past 90 minutes, we expected to be emerging victoriously from the woods at any time. However, each hiker we met on their way back down suggested that we were “Almost halfway there”, or “Just another 45minutes”. With each passing conqueror our morale decidedly plummeted, until finally the cruelest reply of all: “Are we almost to the top?” we asked with the naïve hopefulness of a child asking for a second helping of dessert – “Not even close.” she cruelly snickered.
Broken.
However, we rallied. Finally coming to a clearing at the trail, we could see The Chin looming in front of us. We were going to crush it. At this point fueled by ego more than energy, we made (relatively) quick work of The Chin. Although not a technically challenging ascent, with the high exposure you definitely want to make sure of your footing and hand-holds. Not for the faint of heart, or balance-ly challenged, the route up The Chin knows how to get your heart pumping. Luckily our dog is part mountain goat and there were only one or two spots where we had to convince him that this really was the path. We managed to convince ourselves as well.
The entire hike up, I had a nagging thought in the back of my mind that this trip better be worth the views at the top. I imagined a fog front rolling in just as we made the summit blocking off any inspirational views that we had heard so much about. Or perhaps we would encounter a particularly over-zealous forest ranger who would inform us that the spot of the highest elevation in the state was unfortunately ‘closed’.
I need not have worried, as the view that awaited us was far more than had been anticipated. With still not a cloud in the sky, the view down of Stowe Lodge seemingly in miniature, Sterling Pond across the notch, Lake Champlain, the far shores of New York, and mountains upon mountains upon mountains, dominated the landscape and was reason enough to endure any physical test of will.
After a seemingly endless hike, we split what little water we had and gazed jealously at the far more knowledgeable hikers unpacking picnics and chugging sports drinks. With thoughts of grabbing the surrounding food and drink and making a break for it tempting the dark recesses of my mind, I can only encourage you to hike this trail far more prepared than we did. We lounged and enjoyed for a solid half an hour before coming to the conclusion that we needed to get back to the real world of 1.3 miles straight down.
I wish I could tell you that down was easier or somehow faster than up. I really wish I could tell you that. However, each vertical lunge had magically transformed into a vertebrae crushing, cartilage compounding jolt. When we had finally managed to make it back down to the start of the trail, I rushed (well, hobbled) over to the information map, with my ego hoping that I had somehow misread the three-hour roundtrip approximation. I had not.
By final tally, it had taken us a shade over six and a half hours to complete our journey. Six and a half hours of bone crunching, thirst inducing, hubris demolishing hiking to get to the top of our beautiful state’s tallest peak.
Hell Brook Trail might have taken us down a peg or two, made us question our weekend resolve, and left us muddied, bruised and battered – however, it also gave us a reason to get to the top, to keep going and enjoy the view.
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To tackle Hell Brook Trail for yourself, check out the Vermont State Parks for more info. Located on Rt. 108 (The Notch Road) in between Smugglers’ Notch and Stowe Resorts – Hell Brook Trail is an amazing way to see a different view of Vermont. Just make sure you bring snacks and water – or stop at Arvad’s Grill and Pub like we did. Nothing better than a cold drink and some of Maryanne’s amazing in house desserts to finish off the hike. Cheers!
We know that your time is precious. Between work, kids, and all around life, it can be hard to fit everything into a tight schedule. But Fall Foliage in Vermont is something that needs to be experienced now and not pushed back to ‘next time’. Keeping in mind that you have less time than an average Vermont grow season [it’s very short] – we’re always on the lookout for activities, events, and places that pack as much into your experience as possible. Enter Green Mountain Orchards.
As perhaps the most all-encompassing Fall Foliage experience that we’ve encountered, Green Mountain Orchards has it all. Outdoor, family experience? Check. Amazing views and vistas? Check? Pumpkins, Apples and Cider? Check, check and check. With horse rides, a country store, pick-your-own, and more delicious pies, crumbles and buckles than you can imagine, Green Mountain Orchards has got all the bases covered and then some.
After our recent visit, we put together our top 6 reasons why Green Mountain Orchards is your one stop Vermont fall foliage experience.
Conveniently located just a short drive from I-91, Green Mountain Orchards is easy to get to. Once you’re here however, you may never want to leave. With over 800 acres of rolling hills, wide open meadows, and spectacular mountain and valley views, this place is as close to perfection as we may ever find. Breathtaking no matter what time of year, it is particularly stunning during the foliage season. The view of the surrounding valley explodes in vibrant colors and provides the perfect setting to pause and take it all in.
Going on its 100th year of continuous operation, the Darrow family has been stewards of this amazing land for four generations – and we can’t imagine a more perfect family to be at the helm. Incredibly welcoming and generous, the Darrow’s make you feel as though you were picking apples in your own back yard. Even though their primary role at the orchard is to grow apples and blueberries for the wholesale market (you undoubtedly have them to thank for enjoying such amazing fruits in the middle of the winter), they go far and beyond to make sure that your experience is unforgettably warm and special, and can not wait to welcome you back.
While you certainly wont be breaking any track records – although these guys do get moving pretty fast – you will be blown away by the sheer size and power of these gorgeous creatures. Getting a proper tour of the orchard while riding in a horse-drawn hay wagon, is not only a great way to learn more about the history and behind the scenes workings of the business, but also to get a glimpse of just how far the property reaches.
Alright, we realize that Blueberry Buckle may not be as synonymous with fall and an orchard as say, Apple Pie (which is beyond delicious here), but this dessert/breakfast/snack/food-of-the-gods is out of this world amazing. Buttery, sweet, tart, crunchy, flakey, gooey, and all the other words that describe this dish could never do it justice – so just please take our word – it’s worth the trip alone!
With a do-it-yourself press on premise, you just can’t get a fresher fall taste than that of Green Mountain Orchards Cider. Not in the mood for manual labor, but still after the flavor? Freshly made jugs are available in the store and just begging to be taken home and heated up [/added rum to]. And good god, do not forget the donuts. Ridiculous.
And finally Toby! What a great life this happy pup has. Spending all day outdoors and in the fields going from family to family, assisting in apple picking, and receiving his fair share of ‘dropped’ treats for his efforts. Makes us seriously question our choices in life and how we can be more like Toby.
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Green Mountain Orchards is located at 130 West Hill Road in Putney. Open daily from 8AM – 6PM, you can pick your own apples, grab a pumpkin, find a Christmas tree, make some cider, taste a pie, harvest the blueberries, go for a wagon ride…you get the idea, Green Mountain Orchards is pretty darn cool.
Besides a few unfounded grumblings coming from a couple folks in Arizona (Arizona?!), Vermont is well known and unanimously agreed upon as the king of all that is foliage. Our yellows are more vibrant, our reds are deeper, and our oranges are…orangier. Made up words aside, it just a fact of life that fall in Vermont is one of the most beautiful places in the entire world. In an effort to help more people experience this amazing time of year, we’ve put together a list of four of our favorite places to stay during the foliage season. They run the gamut from small-town inns to grand resorts and collectively they are some of the best places to witness incomparable fall foliage. So enjoy and happy peeping!
We can almost guarantee that the Landgrove Inn is what you picture in your mind’s eye when you hear ‘Vermont Getaway’. Rolling hills, babbling streams, endless fields, and country roads all create the idyllic setting for this beautiful 18-Bedroom inn. With amazing mountain and valley views from every inch of the property, your leaf peeping can begin the moment you wake up. With an amazing on-site restaurant keeping you completely satisfied, miles of trails and hiking for your foliage-driven adventures, and one of our favorite fireplace/bar rooms to enjoy a stiff drink or to curl up with that book you keep meaning to read – go ahead and get away.
Click here for more lodging information and rates or call up and say hi to the amazing owners, Tom and Maureen at 800.669.8466.
You haven’t truly experienced fall foliage in Vermont until you’ve seen the reflection of the leaves from your waterfront cottage on Lake Champlain. Luckily, Basin Harbor has the solution to that very specific (and beautiful) situation. With 77 cottages (waterfront and other amazing locations) and over 40 guestrooms – families have been coming to Basin Harbor for generations. And with 700 gorgeous acres and dozens of activities it’s very easy to see why. Daily fall foliage cruises, hayrides, ropes courses, gourmet fireside s’more bar, and daily cider and Maple Shortbread cookies, just to name a few. Our personal favorite however – the October, 19th event, Rocktoberfest. An annual end of the season celebration of Bacon, Beer and Bands. Booths with Dakin Farm Bacon, WhistlePig, Otter Creek, Woodchuck, Magic Hat – combined with multiple bands and bacon inspired treats (bacon-wrapped, gouda-filled, tater tots/ French toast and bacon cupcakes). So, knock off some checkmarks on your fall foliage checklist and swing by Basin Harbor. C’mon, we know the bacon alone had you sold.
Click here for two great fall packages at the Basin Harbor Club – and don’t forget about Rocktoberfest on October 19th.
Stowe is one of those picturesque, quintessential Vermont towns all year round, however in the fall it is particularly stunning. A bustling downtown filled with country stores, art galleries, boutique clothing shops, and exceptional dining options, it is hard to imagine a more ideal autumn setting. Right in the middle of it all is the historic Green Mountain Inn. Built in 1833, and hosting several US Presidents, the Green Mountain Inn has maintained their rich and storied history while keeping pace with the modern amenities and features of the present. A beautiful combination of guestrooms, luxury suites, apartments, and townhouses, the Green Mountain Inn offers everything and then some. The Whip Bar and Grill offers some of the best eats in town, massage and spa services, an amazing year-round outdoor pool, fitness center, diverse shopping selections, horse-drawn foliage carriage rides, and loads more. The hardest part of staying at The Green Mountain Inn – besides leaving – is what to do first.
Click here for a Fall Getaway Internet special and click here for Autumn Brilliance and Ghoulish Getaway Packages – also be sure to mention this article when you book to receive a complimentary Vermont Gift Basket.
For being the largest city in Vermont, Burlington is a decidedly small town. Strangers say hi as you’re walking down the street, there is a noticeable absence of chain stores, and you can’t help but feel perfectly at home and happy whether you live here permanently or are just visiting for the first time.
Burlington’s newest addition to the hospitality scene is the down to earth – yet upscale, Hotel Vermont. With Vermont products and materials built into the very structure of the establishment – Hotel Vermont gives a beautiful presentation of all that this state has to offer. Located directly downtown, Hotel Vermont is just steps away from gorgeous Lake Champlain, Church Street shopping and dining, farmers markets, and year-round music and art performances. All of this and just minutes away from hiking, biking, leaf peeping, and the natural beauty of Vermont outdoors. One of the easiest locations to get to in the state, Hotel Vermont is serviced by Burlington International Airport (check out those crazy JetBlue deals!) and a quick drive from Boston, Montreal, or New York. Be sure to eat at the unique and local in-house restaurant, Juniper, offering amazing farm to table selections. Hotel Vermont is an ideal base to your Vermont vacation.
Click here for Hotel Vermont’s Fall in Love with Vermont Packages. Also, be sure to like this post on Facebook for a chance to win a complimentary breakfast or brunch for two at Juniper.
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Stay up to date with the Vermont.com Fall Foliage Report and don’t forget to submit your best leaf peeping pictures on the Fall Foliage Facebook Page. Where are your favorite Vermont fall foliage destinations?
Featured Photo Credit // Barb Wood
So I’ll let you in on a little secret. A good beer makes everything better. A tough day or a great day. A day on the slopes or a day at the desk. With certain obvious exceptions (before performing surgery perhaps?) there are few things in life that are not more positively enhanced by the perfect pint. We keep a good amount of craft beers in the Vermont.com offices for just those occasions, and our new favorite is brewed by Drop-In Brewing Company of Middlebury.
Helmed by brewmaster and industry leader Steve Parkes, and aided wonderfully by an amazing crew, [props to Chris, a brewer at Drop-In, for making us feel so at home and keeping the samples flowing], there is a certain joy and playfulness in the brewery that comes through in every drop. Doors to the brewery open and you are instantly hit by really good music. There’s no Top 40 Hits of Today playing on some neglected radio in the corner, these guys take their tunes seriously. In the time we were in, Hendrix, The Clash, Green Day, The Doors, and of course The Ramones, were all cycling through, putting you in a mood to buy a growler or two and post up by the P.A.
Posters of the best are proudly up for display, setting the tone and presiding over the operations. The space up front really isn’t that big, but a permanent stage in the corner really just drives home the point that the music is in every batch they brew.
And as well it should be. Steve Parkes was 17 years old in 1977 and grew up in the punk era with a family that exposed him to all the classics and everything in between. “My dad was 17 in 1957 and grew up listening to Elvis and riding down to the record shop in England to buy all the new 78s – I distinctly remember when I was 8 years old and he came home with the new Sergeant Pepper album and I heard that for the first time…I’ve lived through the whole Rock and Roll era, its easy, I’ve experienced it first hand.” The different brewing tanks are all named after different members of The Ramones – and the tank that holds the runoff and waste by-product from the brewing process (basically it holds all the sh*t) is called Trace Adkins. And we love that.
But it’s not all just fun and games. Steve is an industry innovator and leader. Holding a degree in Brewing Science from the prestigious brewing school at Heriot-Watt University in Edinburgh, Scotland, and having essentially created the industry’s internet based education programs, Steve knows this industry inside and out. Originally recruited to brew in the U.S. as brewmaster for the Humboldt Brewing Company, and eventually moving East to work with Wolavers to turn around the then failing Otter Creek, Steve is a also a Great American Beer Festival and World Beer Cup judge. ‘Nuff said, guy knows his beer.
And Jesus, is the beer delicious. Their flagship Sunshine and Hoppiness (Belgian-style Golden Ale brewed with Weyermann’s Malt from Germany, Cascade hops from Oregon and a blend of two Belgian yeast strain) is our new go to draught. It’s complimented by a rotating assortment of options. When we stopped in right before the holidays, there was a Christmas Cake on tap that literally tasted as though you were drinking a refreshing, delicious, alcoholic version of a holiday treat (Dark Brown Ale brewed with Raisins, Sultanas, Currants, Orange Peel, Grapefruit Peel, Brown sugar and a Super-Secret ingredient). For the slightly more traditional beer drinker in you, Red Dwarf is a must have (American Amber Ale, brewed with American 2 Row Malt, English crystal malt, Columbus, Willamette, Mt Hood and Cascade hops, and a West coast American yeast strain), again – amazing.
In closing, let me say this. We make the drive from our Burlington office to our Manchester office quite frequently. We always take Rt. 22A in Vergennes to avoid the Rutland traffic. After visiting Drop-In Brewing Company in Middlebury, we’ve changed our travel itinerary to drive down Rt. 7 and bring a growler or two down to Manchester. Rut-Vegas be damned, it’s well worth it.
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Drop-In Brewing Company is located just south of Middlebury center at 610 Route 7 South,
Middlebury VT 05753. Their tasting room is open Monday-Saturday: 11am-7pm and Sunday: 12pm-5pm. Stop in, say hi to Steve and the crew, listen to some great tunes, and enjoy a taste or two. Cheers!
As you may know, we are big fans of Hotel Vermont (Four Great Places To Stay In Vermont During Fall Foliage). Their rustic, yet modern rooms give the boutique feel of a big city, yet still manages to stay true to it’s Vermont roots. A convenient, central location in downtown Burlington make it not only a step away from any number of activities, but also incredibly easy to get to no matter where you might be coming from. Numerous, well-organized, exciting events such as their yearly Ice Bar, or WhistlePig’s Boss Hog’s Speakeasy seem to be happening every weekend (and practically every week day too it seems). Yet for all of these valid points, perhaps the biggest reason we love Hotel Vermont is Juniper Bar and Restaurant.
Orchestrated by Chef Doug Paine, Juniper is always creative and delicious, consistently utilizing local ingredients in a unique and surprising manner. Because of this confidence in execution they are amongst the finest of the restaurants in the state that are spearheading the local-food movement. With constantly evolving dining options, you can always have something new and special. The most recent iteration of their Winter Menu is in full swing, and here are five of our favorites dishes.
We’re just going to jump straight to the knockout punch here. Yes, that is fire coming from atop this dish, and yes, it is spectacular. Caramelized apples, turnips, kale, wheat berries, and a hazelnut gastrique are some of the elements that make this dish as unique as it is – but it is truly the Juniper sprig that is lit on fire at the table that is the triumphant coup de grâce. Imparting an calming essence and aroma that stays with you throughout your meal, you have to try it yourself to appreciate it fully.
Everybody knows that one of the greatest parts about eating a meal is the social factor. Going out with a group of friends, a great date – it’s all about the interaction and the experience. Juniper plays perfectly into this mindset with a ‘Sharing’ section of their menu. Not just your average appetizer that you scarf down all by yourself (although, with how delicious these are, you may very well be tempted), but a full on smorgasbord of tantalizing options. The Vermont Cheese Fondue (made with a plethora of local cheeses – West River Creamery amongst them) is paired with house-made sausages, Red Hen bread slices, pickled radishes and pickles, and is the perfect ice-breaker or bonding experience for your gastro/social evening.
As you might have heard once or twice on the news or your friend’s Facebook posts, it has been slightly chilly of late (understatement of 2014 perhaps?). This hearty chili made with venison from Hollandeer Farm in Southern Vermont is the perfect answer to those winter chills. Served with warm, buttery corn bread, queso fresco, and micro cilantro, we think that this dish just might have what it takes to start your full body thaw.
Mussels are a staple on many restaurant’s menus – however, there is something special about the way they do it at Juniper. First off, the size of the mussels themselves are particularly impressive, especially considering the landlocked nature of the state of Vermont. Pair their exceptional size with the perfect combination of onion, saffron, and grilled crostini, and you’re starting to understand where we’re coming from. Oh yeah, and did we mention that there is absinthe added to the mix? Like we said, these guys are special and we guarantee you’ll love ’em!
Gnocchi. While there may be some rumblings surrounding the pronunciation (gn-OH-cchi vs. gn-AH-cchi) there is one thing that most can agree upon – they are delicious. Light (when done correctly) but sizable, fluffy and delicate yet supremely substantial, gnocchi seem to be a contradiction at odds with itself in description, but that all disappears the moment they melt in your mouth. With many variations on core ingredients, we are partial to Juniper’s version of goat cheese gnocchi. Mixed with roasted roots, mushroom ragout, black truffle, and mead buerre blanc, these are some of the best that we have ever had.—
Juniper Bar and Restaurant is located inside Hotel Vermont at 41 Cherry Street in Burlington Vermont. Serving dinner seven days a week from 5PM-10PM and breakfast from 6am-10am Monday-Friday and 7am-11am on weekends – Juniper is a premier restaurant in Burlington, the state as a whole, and a must visit attraction for any serious food lover. In addition to their great Dinner and Breakfast menus, the also offer a full bar with an amazingly creative drink list and live music from local and touring musicians. Juniper is truly something special, be sure to check it out for yourself.
September 9, 2021
We're starting to get some early season foliage reports! Keep checking back here as we continue to gather information from our "Leaf Squad" to report foliage conditions throughout Vermont. We will try to update our reports once a week, on Thursdays.
If you can't make it to Vermont during this year's Fall Foliage Season, you can find some gorgeous Vermont Fall scenery in our Autumn Photo Gallery, thanks to local photographers and visitors to Vermont. But truly, you've got to be here to fully enjoy the leaves. And remember, it's never too late to plan a fall vacation in Vermont!
-- Vermont.com
Foliage color generally starts to change in the higher, cooler areas, spreading down into the valleys, and moving from north to south across the state.
'Peak' colors can be found at many different times & places as the season progresses, and the timing varies from year to year, based on the weather.
Beyond leaf peeping, there are plenty of ways to enjoy Vermont’s mountains, meadows and villages during the fall. Discover Vermont Fall Festivals and other fun things to do in Vermont with our Vermont.com Calendar of Events. Don't see your event? Feel free to suggest an event so we can add it to our Calendar.
COVID-19 NOTICE
Due to the Delta variant, things are changing rapidly. We recommend that if you are planning to attend an event in Vermont, please check directly with the event to see if it has been rescheduled.
FOLIAGE REPORTS FROM AROUND THE STATE
The Vermont.com Foliage Reports are provided thanks to the Vermont Department of Tourism, and by volunteer members of our "Leaf Squad" from around the state. You can send us a foliage report , for your area of Vermont, including a photo, description, and the location & date when the photo was taken.
To view past Foliage Reports, visit the Vermont.com Blog.
For more info on current conditions, call Vermont's Seasonal Hotline at (802)828-3239 ... and tell them Vermont.com sent you!
NORTHERN VERMONT:
September 06, 2021 in Stowe, VT
"We have some color-change in small pockets and at higher elevations. The weather is just starting to get cool but not cool enough to have much impact on the foliage. I predict slow progression over the next week as the weather is supposed to be quite nice and not very cool.
Come to the British Invasion this weekend! It's a three-day event that includes 'all things British,' with primary focus on classic British motorcars."
-- Scot Baraw,
Stoweflake Mountain Resort & Spa
CENTRAL VERMONT:
No Current Reports for Central Vermont
SOUTHERN VERMONT:
September 09, 2021 in Londonderry, VT
"This picture was taken in my neighborhood in Londonderry, along Route 11 in Southern Vermont, and as you can see, the yellows are just starting to peek thru. Temperatures have been in the low 70s during the day, with chilly mornings and evenings, making this a very comfortable time to visit Vermont (just remember to wear layers)."
-- Renee-Marie Smith,
Vermont.com
September 08, 2021 in Bondville, VT
"Hello from Stratton! While we are still enjoying the warm breezes of summer, the nighttime is beginning to feel a lot like fall at the mountain. We've seen the first few color changes high up in the canopies of select trees at lower elevations on the mountain. Dark red and oranges seem to be the first colors to show off this year, and we are excited to see more leaves turn in the coming weeks. It's just a few trees at the moment, but it's something to promote excitement for the fall. After a wet summer, the trees have been a very vibrant green, so we're expecting some luscious colors this fall at Stratton."
-- Andrew Kimiecik,
Stratton Mountain Resort
September 06, 2021 in Manchester, VT
"It's just about that time of year for leaf-peeping! Summer warmth still lingers on some days, while others are getting cooler and more comfortable. The local orchards have just opened for pick-your-own apples - we're venturing out to pick Ginger Golds, Zestar and Sansa from Mad Tom Orchard in East Dorset so we have a variety of the crisp fruit for our guests.
While a bit of orange is starting to show on a few trees along Main Street, green is still the color on our trees here at the Manchester View. We display spectacular color with flowers and plantings; our impressive landscape includes many flowering plants including the huge and colorful Dinner Plate Dahlia, several hues of Mums, and Black-Eyed Susans. Soon we'll decorate for fall with hardy seasonal plants and pumpkins.
According to the 'Farmers' Almanac' for 2021, peak foliage is October 5-14, but it's all up to Mother Nature. And she surprises us every year!"
-- Robin Green,
The Manchester View
To view current Foliage Reports, visit the Vermont.com Foliage Reports page.
To view past Foliage Reports, visit the Vermont.com Blog.
It's about time to start getting geared up for what we promise is going to be an amazing winter (we just feel it in our bones!). With that goal in mind, we went out and found one of the top ski boot-fitters in the state. Veteran ski instructor, boot-fitter extraordinaire, and all-around great guy, Doug Stewart is the ideal person to help get you started from the ground up. Here he gives Vermont.com the inside scoop on how to get the ski boot fit of your dreams.
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From December to March, as a boot-fitter and ski instructor, I spend just about every day working with skiers to maximize their skiing fun on the hill. And from the first-time skier, to seasoned professionals, I am always amazed at how many people suffer from ill-fitting ski boots. Nothing ruins the sport of skiing quite like a painful boot! While boots on their own are rarely bad boots, the actual problem is the compatibility between a skier and his/her boots. Connecting a skier with the proper boot is the process of boot fitting, and it is the art of making your skiing experience the best imaginable. A great boot fit is always available, you just need to know what to look for.
‘Please’ in French is s'il vous plaît (often abbreviated S.V.P.) This is the Acronym I use to help people remember the important parts to getting a quality boot fit. S is for size, and is a very important part of the process. During my lessons on the hill, it is amazing how often I find a skier who is in a boot one or two sizes too big. Many skiers who either “self size” or don’t get true expert advice, keep their toes too far away from the front of the boot, as they would size their street shoe. While this may provide a comfortable fit when the boot is brand new, as the boot breaks-in, this room is amplified and a poor fitting boot is the result. Your toes will usually touch the front of a properly sized boot a little when you are standing tall, and will have some room when you are in a flexed, athletic stance. A good boot-fitter will usually start by measuring both feet on a Brannock device, and will also put your foot in the shell, without the liner to assess the proper shell size. Being in the correct shell size is the foundation of a good boot fit.
The V in S.V.P. stands for Volume. Ski boots are commonly grouped by width (also referred to as last), and this is a crucial consideration in the fitting process. Roughly speaking, boots are narrow, medium or wide. Most brands of boots will make models in all three lasts. It’s important to measure the width of your foot, and work with a boot that is the proper width. In addition to the general width of your foot, it’s important to determine where the volume is on your foot and ankle. Perhaps your heel is narrow, but the front of you foot is wide. It is up to a good boot-fitter to know the shapes of the boots they sell, and to match the foot and boot accordingly. Having the correct volume in your boot is going to make your skiing days much more comfortable, and is the standard for a solid boot fit.
The final, and most involved component to a professional boot fit is the P from S.V.P, and that stands for Performance. This is where you really have to understand the mechanics of good modern skiing, in order for the boot to get the job done on the hill. A good boot-fitter will select the proper boot stiffness and stance adjustments to make sure you are in the proper position for your body to make the moves you want to make for the type of skiing you like to do. This is the step that can be covered about 90% of the time in the shop, but may sometimes require some feedback from actually skiing in the boot, to get it 100% right. This is also the step where some boot-fitters can truly shine, and take your skiing to the next level.
So, make this your best season yet by working with a professional to maximize your time and money and make sure your boot fit is right on. All you have to do is say “s'il vous plaît”!
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You can find Doug helping folks get the ski boot fit they desperately need at The Skirack in Burlington. Located at 85 Main St. Burlington, VT - The Skirack is open Monday - Friday from 10AM - 7PM, Saturday from 10AM - 6PM, and Sunday from 11AM - 5PM. Stop in and gear up - your feet will thank you.
Have you ever noticed when you live near a resort/attraction you seldom go? As a child, I lived 30 minutes outside of DC for five years. The only time we went into the city was when out of town guests came to visit or on school field trips. Several decades ago we lived in CT and came to Vermont for two weeks every summer. For four years we visited VT and with each visit, a trip to Bromley's Alpine Slide was mandatory. Having lived in Southern Vermont now for over 20 years now, it is the same. I have been to Bromley probably 4 times.
This summer we had out of town guests. They hadn't been to Vermont in a long time. Their eight year old had never been. So what do they want to do? Go to Bromley, naturally. I have been wanting go go all summer but living in a place and vacationing in a place are two very different things. I needed to work. My guests needed to have fun. Everyone was recovering from "something" that had been going around, so literally at the last minute, I called Michael at Bromley and arranged to have tickets for my kids and company, while I stayed at the office to work.
The group consisted of a teenager, a "tweenager", an eight year old, our "forty something" friend (an adrenaline junky), and her "seventy something" mom.
I worked, they left. It was quiet. The day dragged on.
Since I didn't get to go, I will share with you their notes.
All staff was very pleasant and helpful.
Adrenaline Zip Line - 5 star scenic ride with a bounce ending!
Alpine Slide - very addictive. This first time rider over 70 progressed rapidly to the fast track.
Miniature Golf - played 18 holes with a wonderful young partner (BBK) - Course nicely varied. Enjoyed contour topography, water features, and elevations changes.
Day was too short to experience all the activities!
Must return!
V.I. Great Barrington, MA - (70 something) - AKA "Grandma"
Last week I visited Bromley Mountain. I had so much fun going to all the attractions. I must have gone on the Alpine Slide a dozen times!
The view while zipping down was amazing, and I couldn’t tell if it was the view or how fast I was going that took my breath away…
-E.R.K. - Manchester, VT (14 years old)
Bromley was enjoyable for me and friends to have a great time. I recommend the Alpine Slide. It was exciting when you zoom down the mountain as fast as you can. (Editor's note: there are brakes but what 12 year old boy is going to want to use brakes?) I also enjoyed the food. It was delicious after the alpine slide.
B.B.K. - Manchester, VT (12 years old)
The Alpine Slide was the best! I only rode the slide and did the trampoline, but I kept riding the slide over and over again. It was so fun. I went faster each time.
I had such a good time I am keeping my Bromley wrist band on for as long as possible!
-I.I. - Tampa, FL (8 years old)
“Wow!” is all I can say. Having not been to Bromley in over thirty years, I was pleasantly surprised by all the new summer activities.
Our party consisted of three generations of devout individuals, and everyone had a blast -- not an easy accomplishment.
The youngsters were able to romp and tromp around this super family establishment unsupervised, while Granny found the Alpine Slide and zip line so engaging that she also splintered off to do her own thing. This allowed me to spend time alone with the quiet teen in our group ... on the trampoline, which was wonderful.
The Bromley staff are ubiquitously friendly and helpful. The only drawback for us was the 4 hours we spent there was not sufficient to do everything we wanted to do which means we will be back next year to do the arial climbing course, which I understand takes a couple of hours.
-M. I. - Tampa, FL - (40 something)
That's it. Their words.
TEN THUMBS up for Bromley Mountain this summer. After Labor Day, they will be open weekends thru October 14, 2013...and then... there is winter at Bromley!
Thanks to Michael for arranging tickets for this very appreciative group. We'll ALL be there next summer.
Chad Braidwood is the owner of Saratoga Olive Oil Co. and we’ve never encountered someone quite as zealous and passionate about their business. As Chad states simply, “It’s very, very easy to sell a good product. For me, this is a no brainer – I love doing it.” We were able to pop in and ask Chad about how he’s embraced the community and the science behind creating such a quality product.
Vermont.com // I remember when we spoke before, you mentioned that you had previously been involved in the medical profession – how does one go about transitioning to olive oil?
Saratoga Olive Oil Co // The transition to selling extra virgin olive oil (EVOO) was not as much of a career change as one might think. My brother, sister-in-law and myself were all in clinical research. There are extraordinary health benefits with consuming EVOOs and balsamic vinegars. I was with Johnson and Johnson at the time and we bumped into a clinical trial that was in Berkeley that was for cancer patients. One of the biggest aspects to cancer research is quality of life. In this clinical trial there was a sidearm where you took three tablespoons of EVOO and over time you were asked questions. How do you feel today? How is your outlook on your disease? The patients who were taking the EVOO were far more upbeat and optimistic. This really resonated with the three of us and we started doing more research going back to the Roman times and Mediterranean lifestyles. We encountered the taste before you buy concept and just ran with it.
VTC // It’s easy to see some of the places where your scientific side comes out, even in the labeling of the oils themselves.
SOOC // All of the oils that are sold at Saratoga Olive Oil Co. are laboratory tested for polyphynol counts, oleic acid counts and free fatty acid counts to ensure the consumer is receiving the healthiest and freshest EVOOs anywhere in the world!
VTC // And how are your oils actually made – what is the process?
SOOC // All of our oils are first cold press – we say press, but now everything is actually done by centrifuge, no more pressing typically. But it’s still all cold and that’s what’s really important. Whenever you add heat to the olive oil, you might get a higher yield, but you’re releasing far more free radicals, which are broken down carbon chains. You want the whole carbon chain of the polyphynol – and keep the free radicals (which cause oxidation of the skin or aging) from being released.
From there our infused flavors are created with the essence of the flavor itself. For example, in Tuscan Herb, blend of oregano, basil, garlic, rosemary – we take fresh garlic and fresh basil and squeeze, releasing the oils and fragrances that epitomize the flavor. Always fresh, never dried out or susceptible to any fertilizers or GMOs – when we say it’s an organic product, it’s organic.
VTC // As I look through the store, I can see oils and balsamics from around the world. How do you decide which types to carry and from where?
SOOC // Great question – this my favorite part of the job! After the clinical trial in Berkeley, when we were doing our research on Roman times and the Mediterranean lifestyle, we noticed the connection between olive oils and wines. Where people are making good red wines, you get great oils! The temperatures and minerals in the soils provide different flavor contrasts. So, here you have two different presses of the same type of olive, Chilean Koroneiki and Greek Koroneiki - you try each of these and they’ll be very different. You might get the grassy overtone in each, but because of where each olive came from, you get completely different flavors. We follow the weather, was it sunny that season? Warm? Rainy? You can learn a lot about how it was affected by where it was grown and most importantly, if you follow it, you can predict where it will be best next. You’ve got to follow the crush. I had a 2010 crush Italian Nocellara de Belice – absolutely amazing, loved it! The 2012 came out and ‘eh, it’s alright’. It’s exactly like wines, different years, different weather, huge differences in flavors – follow the crush!
VTC // I know that being a part of the community is huge for you – even in the products that you feature in the shop, lots of local favorites.
SOOC // Yeah, we try to support the local businesses as much as possible. All of our bread that is used for our samples is delivered fresh every day from Red Hen Baking Co. here in Burlington. We have pour-your-own infused maple syrup from Benito’s that we’re very proud of. Grand Isle Pasta – this is what we were going for in New York and what we love about Vermont – the people here are so excited to be able to buy something from up the road. They list all of their ingredients and keep everything organic.
Middlebury Chocolates, they just started up and we love their products. We’re working on a new injected bar with them where we’re bringing in honey from Green Mountain Bee Farm and take the autumn and spring ‘harvests’ and inject them into the Middlebury Chocolate. It’s going to be amazing, and will be ready before July. Tortilla LocoL, started by a few recent graduates from UVM. Two super energetic, great guys, have been making chips for friends and family for a while. Got a logo and made it official and we’ve been carrying their chips since. Even our artwork is from a local artist Anna Ayers, whose work we’ve just fallen in love with.
And we try to get in good with the community. Obviously we have the samples everyday and we encourage people to come in as often as possible and try the new flavors. We do the food demos and teach people how to cook with our products. It turns into a social hour that by the second drink, it’s so noisy and festive in here - everyone is just having a blast!
VTC // Sounds like a great time – count Vermont.com in for the next one! Thanks again for taking the time Chad!
The next Saratoga Olive Oil Co. Food Demo is Friday April 26th– featuring an amazing menu prepared by Chef Ferguson of Halvorson’s Upstreet Café and wine pairings by Brad Kelley of Burlington Wine Shop. We’ll see you there!
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Saratoga Olive Oil Co. is located at 86 Church Street and is open for business Monday-Thursday 11AM - 6PM, Friday and Saturday from 11AM – 7PM and Sunday from Noon – 5PM.
For more info visit Saratoga Olive Oil Co
Over the weekend, Dobra Tea opened its doors and welcomed their first customers to a new type of tea shop. Occupying what used to be Mad Hatters Deli, Dobra Tea has blown through their adjoining wall and created a space that is equal parts retail and relaxation. We were able to speak with Owner Stacy Jolles and learn what the new space will offer and a bit about tea in general.
Vermont.com // Besides perhaps making a glass for my grandmother or my girlfriend if she’s sick, I know next to nothing about tea. What exactly is the difference between a bag of tea from the grocery and what we can get here?
Dobra Tea // The biggest difference – our tea is really fresh. Most of what you would be buying in a grocery store is the leftovers of the processing – called the fannings. Our quality is much higher, we have the whole leaf, very carefully processed, not crumbled or smashed and always handpicked. Tea is just like wine – the terroir affects the way the tea tastes, in combination with how it is processed. There are numerous different tea categories; white, yellow, green, black, oolong – all of these are one plant (just like wine is from the grape), just all different varietals, and the way they are grown and processed. We have over 100 types of teas here – all different and unique.
VTC // What about the way that some bottles of wine have huge price tags? Does that happen with teas as well?
DT // You could go out and get teas that are one-hundred, two-hundred dollars, just like a bottle of wine. But, Dobra is a Czech/Russian word that means good and our mission is to provide as high quality tea as we possibly can, but make it affordable and accessible.
VTC // Tell me about the new space, what are you most excited about?
DT // Before, we had a tea room, bulk loose leaf tea shop, retail tea ware, tea to go, food, music, tea classes, all of this in a tiny little space. Now we can take all of that out of the tea room and leave the peace and quiet and bring our retail over here. The other big gain for us is we get a classroom space. This community really enjoys education and tea is a very complex subject.
VTC // What type of classes will you offer?
DT // Over the weekend we’ll be having our first yoga sessions and we will also will continue our tea classes. Recently we went to Hawaii and visited six or seven tea farms. We brought back quite a bit of tea and had a class tasting all the different types, showing a slide show from the travels, and talking about tea processing.
VTC // I see that you’ve expanded your tea ware selection as well – can you tell us a little about the new offerings?
DT // One of the biggest things for us is that we carry tea from all of the tea drinking lands; China, Japan, Vietnam, Korea, India, etc. and we serve it in the vessel that is appropriate for that country. So when we have a Chinese tea ceremony or a Japanese Tea Ceremony, we have the proper tea ware, served in the process and style that is accustomed. We now offer all of these different types of vessels in our retail area. We also have a lot of local artisan tea ware, from wonderful artists like Laura Baum all on display and for sale.
VTC // And to think, all this time my Grandmother and girlfriend were just being served in a coffee mug. Thank you so much for taking the time – I’m looking forward to coming in for classes and more tea tastings.
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Dobra Tea’s new retail space and classroom is located on the corner of Church and Bank Street and is open for business Sunday – Wednesday from 10AM-10PM and Thursday – Saturday from 10AM-11PM. Stop in, relax, and enjoy - these guys know their tea.
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