As a native New Englander, I take pride in the small towns around the region. To me, there's nothing better than a getaway in a small town, however, I am quite partial to Stowe, Vermont. I have been here a few times throughout my life and still can't get over its historic charm, the panoramic views, and the mountains. If you've been here before, or even live here, you know it's a special place. Nestled in the Green Mountains, it's not hard to see why it's a top resort destination in the U.S. Aside from the ski resorts and historic sites, there are quite a few things to do in Stowe, Vermont. So, join me on a small-town adventure to one of my favorite small towns, and use this Stowe travel guide when you make plans to visit!

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History Of Stowe

Stowe's history dates back to the 18th century. It was established as a town in 1763, but it wasn't until 1791 that Vermont actually became a state and settlers arrived a time later in 1793. With its verdant land and rich soil, the town was perfect for farming, thus its agricultural industry began. Logging was another industry established here, and eventually, agriculture farming gave way to dairy farming.

By the mid-19th century, Stowe gained recognition as a resort town. It was a place to escape the heat in the summer and to enjoy its natural beauty. Mount Mansfield Hotel, established in 1864, was the town's first hotel. When the Mt. Mansfield Electric Railroad (1897-1932) was established along a 12-mile track between Waterbury and Stowe, it gave a big boost to tourism.

In 1940, Stowe's first chair lift was built, and, with that, the ski industry truly blossomed. To this day, this small Vermont town is considered a premier ski destination in New England, with Stowe Mountain Resort leading the way.

Is Stowe Worth Visiting?

Yes, Stowe, VT is absolutely worth visiting! As someone who has taken a few getaways here, I always look forward to when I can make it back. I remember the first time I came here —several years ago, my dad and I were thinking of partaking in an inn-to-inn ski tour where you cross-country ski between inns in Vermont. The tours all happened to be booked so we opted for spending a couple of nights in Stowe and trying cross-country skiing here. I am so glad we did! We stayed at the Trapp Family Lodge which offered all the amenities we could hope for along with skiing, a brewery, on-site restaurants, and more. I fell in love with the beauty here and, if you've never been before, you will, too!

How To Get To Stowe

To get to Stowe, you can take a bus, a train, or a car. If you opt for a train or a bus, you will get off in the neighboring town of Waterbury, a mere 15 minutes from Stowe. During the winter, Green Mountain Transit offers a complimentary shuttle to Stowe from Waterbury. Otherwise, you can take the GMT 100 Connector to the Stowe Town Hall stop. Pretty easy!

If you're coming from the Boston area, the trip by car will take just over 3 hours by driving I-93 N to I-89 N. For those of you flying in, the closest airport to Stowe is Burlington. From there, you can take a taxi or bus to town. For alerts on the best rates on flights to Burlington from anywhere in the country, I suggest signing up for Dollar Flight Club.

Getting Around Stowe

The obvious choice to get around Stowe is by car. However, there are other options. Downtown Stowe is very walkable so, to explore, I suggest parking your vehicle in Stowe Village and taking a walk! Walking around a town is certainly the best way to explore.

Another great option to get around town is Green Mountain Transit's Mountain Road Shuttle which is free of charge in the winter months between late November and mid-March. There are also taxis and ride-share options in town as well.

Best Time To Visit Stowe

While any time of the year is lovely to visit Stowe as each season brings a different look, feel, and activity options, there's perhaps no better time of year to visit town than the fall. So, if you were wondering what is Stowe known for, it's the peak foliage season, one of the most beautiful times of the year. In fact, it's been rated as one of the best fall foliage destinations by websites and publications like TripAdvisor, USA Today, and Travel + Leisure. Stowe has also been dubbed "Fall's Color Capital," so it's worth seeing the kaleidoscope of autumnal hues here.

Stowe is also a popular ski town, so if you're into skiing (downhill or cross-country), snowboarding, snowshoeing, or just want to go sledding, coming here is a must. And you also have options as far as ski resorts go. There's the Trapp Family Lodge, Spruce Peak, and Stowe Mountain Resort, all offering miles of trails, lessons, and rentals. Covered in a blanket of white, Stowe is magical this time of year!

Where To Stay In Stowe

Hotel Pick: Trapp Family Lodge

Each time I visit Stowe, I stay at the Trapp Family Lodge. It's a taste of The Sounds of Music right here in New England. In the 1940s, the famous von Trapp family who had escaped Austria during WWII, came to the U.S. and settled here on mountainous farmland in Stowe. They started out with a 27-room lodge with their first guests arriving in 1950. By 1980, a fire destroyed the original lodge, and a larger, more impressive 96-room European alpine-style lodge was built in its place.

With 2,600 acres and sweeping mountain views, I find a sense of peace and calm whenever I stay here. The rooms are comfortable yet with a slightly rustic look that I find so appealing. The lodge offers tours, fitness classes, wagon and carriage rides, guided hikes, wine tastings, and so much more. There's also an on-site fitness center, its Bierhall, a cafe, and other dining options. You certainly don't have to leave the property if you don't want to. Everything is here for you!

Airbnb Pick: The Rabbit Hole - Luxury Cabin in Heart of Stowe

If you feel like staying close to downtown Stowe, you may want to explore vacation rental options. With its charm, curbside appeal, luxurious amenities, and the fact that it's close to downtown, I feel like The Rabbit Hole is a great option! While just 1.5 miles from shops, restaurants, and a brewery, it still has a secluded feel you will only find in the mountains. The home boasts 5 bedrooms, 2 bathrooms, and the ability to accommodate up to 13 guests. I see a group getaway in your future!

While surrounded by lavish furnishings and decor, you'll want for nothing during your stay here. Head outdoors, and you'll have use of a fire pit and a private hot tub as well. What could be better during your small-town getaway in Vermont?

Stowe Sights & Landmarks

Stowe Historical Society

Located within two historic schoolhouses on the aptly-named School Street in the town's village, the Stowe Historical Society is where you can go to learn about the town's past. While here, you can view its collection of books, letters, journals, and other historical documents along with artifacts from the Civil War as well as textiles, farm tools, and more. Take a peak into Stowe's past by spending time here!

Vermont Ski and Snowboard Museum

Whether you ski or snowboard or just have an interest in winter sports, a visit to the Vermont Ski and Snowboard Museum is a must. There's no doubt that winter sports have long been a huge part of life here in Vermont; it's part of its history, after all, and you'll be taken through that history as you view the museum's exhibits. Speaking of history, the museum is housed in the Old Town Meeting House which was built in 1818. Pretty cool, right?

Auto Toll Road

Ready for a stunning scenic drive to the summit of Mount Mansfield from where you can gaze at Lake Champlain below and the Adirondack Mountains in the distance? The historic Auto Toll Road first opened in 1923 and winds its way up to 3,850 feet over the course of 4.5 miles. When you get to the top, park the car, get out, and take in the jaw-dropping scenery!

Stowe Community Church

There's no other building in town quite as iconic as the Stowe Community Church. Founded in 1863, this is one of the oldest non-denominational churches in the country, and it holds its Sunday mass every week at 9:30 a.m. It's certainly worth visiting when you're in town, if not for mass, for the photos, and to take a peek inside if it's open.

Stowe Activities & Attractions

Gondola Skyride

One of the top Stowe attractions has to be the Gondola Skyride at Stowe Mountain Resort which sits atop Vermont's highest peak, Mt. Mansfield. Take the gondola that will drop you close to the top where you can take a hiking trail or stop for a bite and refreshments at Cliff House Restaurant. The Gondola Skyride operates seasonally between mid-June and mid-October, so plan your trip accordingly if you're looking into what to do in Stowe and this appeals to you.

Tours at Trapp Family Lodge

As I mentioned when talking about my love for the Trapp Family Lodge, they offer tours! Among the tours offered are farm animal tours, a guided hike to the chapel, a hike to the Bierhall, a hike with goats, maple sugaring tours, von Trapp Brewing tours, von Trapp history tours, etc. Take a look at the tour offerings on the Trapp Family Lodge website. If you're staying at the Trapp Family Lodge, public tours are included in your resort fee. However, you don't have to be a guest to take a tour. You can join any of them for a fee.

Shops & Boutiques In Stowe

Lake Champlain Chocolates

If you have a sweet tooth, it's essential to stop at Lake Champlain Chocolates and grab some treats. With a location in the heart of the village, there's no excuse to not stop by. Known best for its handcrafted chocolates, especially the sea salt caramels (so good!), you'll satisfy that sweet tooth of yours in no time.

Stowe Mercantile

Located in the Old Depot building, Stowe Mercantile is a unique shopping experience where you'll find a wide variety of goods. You can shop for housewares, Vermont maple syrup, gifts, gourmet foods, handmade fudge, and more. And if you can't make it here in person, you can go shopping on the Stowe Mercantile website.

Restaurants In Stowe

Black Cap Coffee and Bakery of Vermont - Stowe

Start your morning off right with a cup of coffee and a pastry from Stowe's Black Cap Coffee and Bakery. With a wide variety of lattes as well as smoothies, breakfast dishes, and pastries, it's one of my favorite spots to come in the morning. However, if you're trying to find a place for a quick lunch, Black Cap has several sandwiches on its menu, and all are served with a side of chips.

The Round Hearth Cafe and Market Place

Cozy doesn't even begin to describe the ambiance of The Round Hearth Cafe and Market in Stowe. Come here for a variety of pastries, sandwiches, coffees, and more for breakfast or lunch, sit around the hearth which is the centerpiece of the cafe, and then go shopping for antiques and consignments. This place is one of a kind!

For a sublime dining experience in a gorgeous space, there's perhaps no better place in town than Alpine Hall. With an elevated menu featuring homemade farm-to-table cuisine, this is a memorable place to dine. It's open for breakfast, lunch, and dinner, and you'll find it at the Spruce Peak Lodge.

Harrison's Restaurant and Bar

If you're in the mood for an elevated comfort-style meal, make a reservation at Harrison's Restaurant and Bar. Located on Main Street, Harrison's offers a cozy yet upscale vibe and menu offerings that range from scallops, venison, and lamb to artichoke mac & cheese, calamari, and charcuterie. You can't go wrong with anything you order here!

Nature In And Around Stowe

Stowe Recreation Path

Spanning a length of 5.3 miles, the Stowe Recreation Path runs between Stowe Village and Top Notch Resort. This scenic multi-use trail meanders through some of the most beautiful parts of town and passes over the West Branch of Little River. You can either take a long hike or a bike ride on the Stowe Recreation Path. Keep in mind that the round-trip is 10.6 miles, which will take over 3 hours if you hike or around an hour if you bike. This is among the best outdoor activities in Stowe.

ArborTrek Canopy Adventures

Located in nearby Jeffersonville, ArborTrek Canopy Adventures offers a zip-line canopy tour, an obstacle course, and a climbing adventure, each with a number of challenges throughout. You can book each option separately or book them all for an all-day outdoor adventure. Which will you choose?

If you've visited before, what are some of your favorite things to do in Stowe? If you have yet to spend time here, what are you waiting for? To me, Stowe is the quintessential New England small town with all the charm and beauty you could ever hope for and a population of 5,300 residents. I urge you to put it on your bucket list for a small-town getaway in Vermont immediately. A day trip to Stowe is also a great idea!