Where To Stay

Last-Minute Labor Day Weekend Getaways in Vermont

By Adam LouisAug. 30, 2023

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.

Basin Harbor Club Cottage

Basin Harbor Resort: The Ultimate Lake Retreat

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 Inn Exterior Porch

Grafton Inn: Small-Town Charm with Big-Time Amenities

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! ”

The Wobbly Cabin: A Killington Hideaway

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.

Lake Morey Resort - Summer Building and Dock with Canoes

Lake Morey Resort: Vermont Vibes

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!”

Wilburton Arial Foliage Valley View

Wilburton Inn: A Slice of Historic Luxury 

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.”

The Essex - Summer Exterior

The Essex Resort and Spa: The Culinary Retreat

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 Mountain Resort Summer Gondola Arial

Stratton Mountain Resort: Where Alpine Aesthetics Meet Adventure

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!”

Chic Modern Lake Champlain VRBO

Chic Modern Lake Getaway on Lake Champlain

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.

Adorable Cottage in the Heart of Dorset Village

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.”

Smugglers Notch Resort Kestrels 5 View

Smugglers Notch Resort: Family Fun Central 

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.”

Brand New Luxury Retreat with Hot Tub and amazing views Master Bedroom

Brand New Luxury Retreat in Warren

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.

Equinox Resort and Spa Exterior Main Street Flowers and Church Steeple

Equinox Resort: The Pinnacle of Elegance

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. ”

VRBO Schoolhouse Stay

Historic Schoolhouse in Braintree

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.

Spruce Peak Living Room Fireplace

Spruce Peak Lodge Luxury Mountain Cabin in Stowe

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.

By Adam LouisAug. 30, 2023
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By Linda WarnerAug. 4, 2016
Northshire Bookstore at 4869 Main Street, Manchester, Vermont, is not your average bookstore.  Independent and family-owned, Northshire Bookstore encourages browsing and discovery.  So, wander and enjoy.  Check out the large children’s area (a third of the store is dedicated to children).  Getting children to read is not only a goal, but a passion for the […]
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