6 Vermont Towns to Visit This Fall
Vermont in the fall is a postcard come to life. The Green Mountain State transforms into a sea of fiery reds, oranges, and golds, with crisp air that makes it the perfect season for a visit. Vermont’s charm shines through its historic architecture, local festivals, and stunning natural beauty. Here are six must-visit Vermont towns to experience this fall, each offering a unique slice of autumnal magic.
1. Stowe
Nestled in the heart of the Green Mountains, Stowe is a quintessential Vermont destination that feels like it was made for fall. The town’s rolling hills and dense forests explode with color, earning it the nickname “Fall’s Color Capital of Vermont.” Hike the trails of Smugglers’ Notch or take a scenic drive along the Stowe Recreation Path for amazing foliage views. After a day outdoors, warm up with a craft beer at von Trapp Brewery or browse the artisanal shops along Main Street. Don’t miss the Stowe Foliage Arts Festival in early October, where local crafts, music, and seasonal treats celebrate the season in true Vermont style.
2. Woodstock
Often called one of America’s prettiest small towns, Woodstock delivers fall charm in spades. Its picturesque village green, surrounded by historic Georgian and Federal-style buildings, is framed by vibrant maples and oaks. Visit Billings Farm & Museum for a dose of rural Vermont life, complete with apple cider pressing and wagon rides. For outdoor enthusiasts, Quechee Gorge—Vermont’s “Little Grand Canyon”—offers breathtaking hikes with panoramic foliage views. Grab a pumpkin spice latte at Mon Vert Café and stroll the town’s covered bridges for a perfect autumn day.
3. Manchester
Tucked between the Green and Taconic Mountains, Manchester blends upscale sophistication with small-town warmth. Fall is the ideal time to explore the town’s designer outlets for cozy sweaters or to hike the trails of Equinox Preserve, where the foliage creates a kaleidoscope of colors. History buffs will love the Hildene, the Lincoln family estate, where guided tours showcase its elegant grounds draped in autumn hues. Stop by Northshire Bookstore, a local gem. Manchester’s blend of culture and nature makes it a fall must-visit.
4. Waitsfield
For a laid-back fall escape, Waitsfield in the Mad River Valley is hard to beat. This artsy town is surrounded by sugar maples that light up the landscape, making it a haven for leaf peepers. Visit the iconic Waitsfield Covered Bridge or take a scenic drive along Route 100, often cited as one of New England’s best foliage routes. The town’s farmers’ market, held through mid-October, brims with seasonal goodies like fresh cider, maple syrup, and artisanal cheeses. For adventure, paddle the Mad River or sip a seasonal brew at Lawson’s Finest Liquids. Waitsfield’s relaxed vibe is perfect for soaking up fall’s simple pleasures.
5. Grafton
Grafton is a hidden gem that feels like stepping into a Norman Rockwell painting. This tiny village, with its white-steepled church and historic brick buildings, is surrounded by rolling hills ablaze with fall colors. Visit the Grafton Village Cheese Company to sample award-winning cheddar, or explore the trails at Grafton Ponds Outdoor Center for a foliage-filled hike. The town’s annual Fall Foliage Festival, typically held in late September, features craft fairs, live music, and farm-fresh food. With its quiet charm and scenic beauty, Grafton is a perfect spot for a peaceful autumn retreat.
6. Ludlow
At the base of Okemo Mountain, Ludlow is a vibrant yet cozy town that comes alive in fall with stunning foliage and outdoor adventures. The surrounding Black River Valley bursts with color, making it a prime spot for leaf-peeping hikes or scenic drives along Route 100. Head to Okemo Mountain Resort for early fall chairlift rides offering panoramic views of the Green Mountains draped in autumn hues. In town, explore charming shops and savor hearty seasonal fare at local spots like The Downtown Grocery, known for its farm-to-table dishes. Don’t miss the annual Okemo Valley Fall Foliage Festival, featuring live music, craft vendors, and pumpkin displays, perfect for soaking up Ludlow’s small-town autumn spirit.
Why Visit Vermont This Fall?
Vermont’s small towns are more than just pretty places—they’re gateways to the season’s best experiences. From hiking and biking through vibrant forests to savoring local maple syrup and craft brews, these towns capture the essence of fall. Each offers a unique mix of history, culture, and natural beauty, making them ideal destinations for a weekend getaway or a longer leaf-peeping adventure. Bundle up, grab a hot cider, and let Vermont’s autumn magic sweep you away.
