Is it just me or does everything get better in the fall? The leaves change color, the air gets crisp and cool, and everything just feels a bit more magical.
And while there are so many places around the world that are great to visit during this time of year, there’s just something special about Vermont.
It’s true. Vermont is one of the most popular states to visit during the fall thanks to its stunning foliage.
Every year, people from all over come to Vermont to see the leaves change color. Keep reading to learn about the best places to visit in Vermont during the fall!
10. Mount Mansfield
Wear your hiking clothes as you’ll definitely feel like Superman when you hike to the summit of Mount Mansfield, Vermont’s tallest mountain.
Make sure to bring enough water to drink as at 4,393 feet tall, you would definitely have to stay hydrated so you have the energy to see the views from the top that are incredible. Especially during the fall season, you can only imagine how beautiful the view is up there!
Each year, visitors flock to Mount Mansfield for the chance to see some of the best fall foliage in Vermont. Can’t say we blame them! There’s no better place to see the leaves changing color than from up high.
Make sure you bring your camera to capture your “I’m the king of the world!” moment.
9. Smuggler’s Notch
Hold up – Google it. Yep, looks straight out of a postcard, doesn’t it? That’s because Smuggler’s Notch is one of the most popular places to visit in Vermont during the fall.
This three-mile-long notch (or pass) is located in the Green Mountains and is full of beautiful scenery, hiking trails, and waterfalls. If you love being outdoors and surrounded by nature, you’ll feel right at home here.
Smuggler’s Notch is a beautiful and historic landmark located in the Green Mountains of Vermont. The name comes from its use as a hiding spot for smugglers back in the day.
Nowadays, it’s a popular spot for visitors who come to drive through, hike and admire the views.
8. Shelburne Museum
The Shelburne Museum is a must-visit during the prime leaf-peeping season for anyone who loves art and history.
This museum is home to over 150,000 pieces including paintings, textiles, sculptures, and more. Plus, the 45-acre grounds are absolutely beautiful – especially during this time of the year.
The gorgeous green grounds are blanketed with fall foliage, making it the perfect place to take a stroll by the rolling hills and snap a few photos.
And if you have kids, they’ll love the chance to explore and learn about all the different exhibits. Honestly, with so much to do, you could easily spend an entire day here!
7. Ben & Jerry’s Ice Cream Factory
Bet you didn’t know that Vermont is home to the Ben & Jerry’s Factory, did you? If you love ice cream (and who doesn’t?), then this is definitely a place you need to add to your list.
During your factory tour, you’ll learn all about how Ben & Jerry’s ice cream is made and even get to try some free samples! And of course, what would a trip to Ben & Jerry’s be without picking up a pint (or two) of your favorite flavor to take home with you?
This place is fun for both kids and adults, making it the perfect stop for a family outing. Just make sure you save room for dessert!
6. Sleepy Hollow Farm
If there’s one place in this list that’s sure to make your Instagram followers jealous, it’s Sleepy Hollow Farm. From any angle, this place looks like it’s pulled out of an autumn-themed storybook!
The fall season in Vermont is definitely the best time to visit Sleepy Hollow Farm where in you can see the leaves sparkling gold and orange! But even if you can’t make it during that time, the farm is still worth a visit. After all, how often do you get to say you’ve been to a real-life fairytale farm?
By the way, Sleepy Hollow Farm is often packed with visitors during the fall season dying to pose in front of this one-in-a-million background.
If you want to avoid crowds, we recommend visiting during the week instead of on the weekends.
5. Moss Glen Falls
A place so beautiful that you won’t even know where to look first – that’s what this location is like. From the moment you arrive, you’ll be surrounded by natural beauty at every turn.
This spot is perfect for anyone who wants to enjoy a peaceful day outdoors. Take a stroll along the easy hiking trails and admire the views of the cascading waterfalls.
Or if you’re feeling adventurous, you can even go for a swim in the refreshing pool at the base of the falls.
Moss Glen Falls is one of those places that’s simply breathtaking. No matter how many times you visit, you’ll never get tired of admiring the sheer beauty of this spot. Imagine how much more beautiful it must be during the fall season!
4. Stowe
Stowe is a famous ski town located in the Green Mountains of Vermont. But even if you don’t ski or snowboard, there’s still plenty to do here during the fall season.
One of the best things to do in Stowe is to take a scenic drive along Mountain Road. This road winds its way through the mountains, offering stunning views of the fall foliage. It’s an experience you won’t soon forget!
And if you’re looking for a place to stay, we recommend the Green Mountain Inn. This historic hotel is located right in the heart of Stowe and features its on-site spa – perfect for unwinding after a long day of exploring.
Also, there are plenty of great restaurants and shops to check out around the area.
3. Church Street Marketplace
If you’re looking for a place to do some fall shopping, look no further than the bustling Church Street Marketplace. This pedestrian-only street is lined with all sorts of shops, from souvenir stores to local boutiques.
There’s also a wide variety of restaurants here, so you can easily grab a bite to eat in between shopping sessions. And when you’re ready to take a break from all the walking, Church Street Marketplace also has plenty of benches and public art to admire.
During the fall season, Church Street Marketplace is also the perfect place to people-watch. You’ll see all sorts of people strolling about, enjoying the crisp autumn air.
2. The ECHO Lake Aquarium and Science Center
We don’t know if this one’s for the kids or the kids at heart, but either way – the ECHO Lake Aquarium and Science Center is a fun-filled day out.
This educational attraction is perfect for a rainy day activity. Learn all about the local ecosystem as you walk through the different exhibits. Or if you’re feeling playful, head on over to the splash pad (just make sure to bring a change of clothes!).
This place has everything, from hands-on science exhibits to a live ray petting pool. And of course, you can’t forget about the aquarium itself which is home to all sorts of sea creatures.
We ranked the top aquariums in America and even though ECHO Lake didn’t make it on the list, it’s still a worth qauarium to visit if you are nearby!
If you want to learn more about the animals at the aquarium, make sure to attend one of the daily animal feedings.
These take place at various times throughout the day, so be sure to check their schedule before you arrive.
1. Von Trapp Lodge
Are you freaking out yet? Because we are! It’s almost as if the hills are alive with the sound of music at the Von Trapp Lodge.
This picturesque lodge is located in Stowe, Vermont, and overlooks some of the most beautiful scenery in New England.
Not only is the lodge itself stunning, but it also offers a variety of activities for guests to enjoy.
Take a dip in the outdoor pool, go for a hike on one of the many trails, or simply relax in your cozy room and take in the views. And in case you’re wondering – there are even horse-drawn carriage rides available!
And yes, *that* Von Trapp family actually owned this lodge at one point. So you know it’s got to be good. Unfortunately, the original lodge was destroyed by a fire in 1980. But the new lodge is just as beautiful as the original.
Time to Pack Up
Traveling during this time of year has its perks. The weather is (usually) mild, the crowds are gone, and best of all – the foliage is breathtaking.
In Vermont, the fall season is one of the most popular times to visit. And we can see why!
From history, art, or simply good old-fashioned fun – Vermont has something for everyone.
If you don’t know what to do in Vermont in October or even mid-September, we can’t imagine a better place to spend a few days (or even weeks!) exploring.
Have you packed your bags yet? We hope so because it’s time to start exploring all that Vermont has to offer! These are just a few of the best places to visit in Vermont during the fall season. But trust us, there are plenty more where that came from.
Visit our homepage for more tips and tricks on planning your next trip. Safe travels!
