vermont places to visit in winter

New England Wanderlust

Vermont , Winter  ·  October 21, 2022

25 Fun Things To Do In Vermont In The Winter (2023-2024 Season)

One of the most magical states to visit in New England in the winter is Vermont . While it’s one of the most popular destinations for fall foliage, I always like to tell people that it’s just as amazing and cozy in the winter. Between covered bridges and gorgeous red barns surrounded by freshly fallen snow, the mountain air, cozy inns, amazing seasonal food and outdoor activities, there are so many incredible things to do in Vermont in the winter. Let’s get started!

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Is Vermont Worth Visiting In The Winter?

100% yes! Vermont is one of my favorite states to experience in the winter season in New England because everything that makes it cozy and charming year-round is amplified this time of the year.

Not only is one one of the top ski destinations in the Northeast, there are so many cute little towns that make you feel as though you’ve stepped inside of a snow globe, in addition to the amazing dining options and fun things to do both indoors and outdoors that perfectly celebrate the season.

Best Things To Do In Vermont In December To Celebrate Christmas

Vermont is such a great state to visit during the holiday season, and almost every town has some form of Christmas event. If you’re looking for a festive Christmas getaway in the Green Mountain State, check out these suggestions on things to do in Vermont in December.

1. Wassail Weekend In Woodstock

One of the most fun Christmas festivals in Vermont is Wassail Weekend in Woodstock. Not only is Woodstock one of the most charming towns in the entire state, it’s even more magical during the holiday season, so it’s a win-win to visit at Christmas.

Wassail Weekend typically takes place the second weekend in December, and includes holiday home tours, the lighting the community yule log, parades, festive decorations all over town, craft fairs, concerts, and tons more (yes, including wassail!).

2. Christmas At Billings Farm In Woodstock

In addition to Wassail Weekend in Woodstock, you can also celebrate the season with Christmas at Billings Farm . Billings Farm is not only one of the best places to visit in Vermont year-round, but it’s also especially fun at Christmas.

As a working dairy farm, and one of the top interactive farm museums in the country, you’ll find beautiful Victorian Christmas decor in the farmhouse parlor, events where you can hand-dip your own candles, vote on the best gingerbread houses made by the team at the farm, and sit by a fire pit with a hot cocoa to admire the stunning grounds. And don’t forget to stock up some of their homemade cheeses for your holiday entertaining!

Christmas at Billings Farms happens every weekend in December through New Year’s, and is definitely worth adding to your winter itinerary!

3. A Traditional Christmas In Stowe

Stowe is also one of the best towns to visit in Vermont year-round, but especially during the winter season. And at Christmas, you won’t want to miss their Traditional Christmas in Stowe event, where the entire town is decked out in festive garlands and twinkle lights, with lots of events happening throughout the entire weekend.

A Traditional Christmas in Stowe typically takes place the first weekend in December, and kicks off with the town tree lighting. You’ll also get to experience a holiday craft market, a lantern parade, live music, cookie and ornament decorating and even a special appearance by Santa, Mrs. Claus and their trusty reindeer.

4. Winter Lights At Shelburne Museum

Just outside of Burlington, you’ll find the adorable little town of Shelburne (one of my personal favorite places in Vermont), and one holiday event you don’t want to miss is Winter Lights at the Shelburne Museum .

Winter Lights typically kicks off the Friday after Thanksgiving, and then runs Thursday through Sunday each weekend through New Year’s Day. During the event, you’ll find yourself stepping into a true holiday wonderland where the grounds of the museum are completely aglow with all kinds of light displays.

During special nights in December, they also host events during the light display, including Lake Champlain Chocolate Night and an evening with ice bars, serving up speciality winter cocktails. Click here for more information!

5. Cut Your Own Christmas Tree

One of the best things to do in Vermont in December to kick off your own holiday celebrations is to cut down your own Christmas tree at one of the local tree farms. Vermont has so many tree farms to choose from, and no matter where you are, you’ll be able to find one nearby. But to get you started, here are some suggestions on really great ones to check out:

• Elysian Hills Tree Farm in Dummerston
• Balsam Acres in Worcester
• Murray Hill Tree Farm in Waterbury Center (just outside Stowe)
• L H Stowell & Son in Brookfield
• Bennetts Tree Farm in Bennington

6. The Vermont Holiday Market In Essex

A relatively newer addition to Vermont’s Christmas celebration is the Vermont Holiday Market in Essex. It’s become so popular in the last couple of years that they’ve expanded it into a 2-day weekend event.

This holiday market takes place the first weekend in December at the Champlain Expo Center, and is packed with vendors selling all kinds of hand-crafted goods. This is a really great place to get started with your Christmas shopping, and also, to support local artisans.

7. Very Merry Middlebury Celebration

The beautiful town of Middlebury has a festive holiday celebration called A Very Merry Middlebury that you don’t want to miss. It pretty much has all the ingredients for the perfect Christmas weekend including live carolers, a hot cocoa cart, a town Christmas tree, wreaths and garlands strung at every turn, special holiday shopping stroll events, photos with Santa, and even a special light display on the town falls.

Best Things To Do In Vermont In The Winter

Once the excitement of December passes, you still have the restorative and rejuvenating winter months ahead to plan your perfect trip to Vermont. Here are all my suggestions on the absolute best things to do in Vermont in the winter.

8. Go Ice Skating

One of my favorite things to do in Vermont this time of year is to skate under the twinkle lights at the ice rink at Lodge at Spruce Peak. Their skating rink is open to the public, so you don’t have to be a hotel guest to enjoy it, and they also have skates available to rent during your visit.

While the ice rink is open during the daytime, too, I especially love it at night because not only will the twinkle lights be on, the grounds at the resort feel extra special and cozy at night with all their lights and winter decorations. If you choose to go during the day, though, you’ll still have amazing views of the mountains while you skate.

Pro Tip: The restaurants at Spruce Peak are also awesome and cozy in the winter, so I suggest making a dinner reservation during your visit to the ice rink, and really enjoy the atmosphere at the resort. In past years, they’ve had igloos and fire pits outside, too.

But there are more wonderful places to go ice skating around Vermont. One of which deserves its own section in this post, so stay tuned on where to find the longest ice skating trail in Vermont!

But moving on … Another magical place to check out is the outdoor ice rink at the Farm Road Estate in West Dover, which is absolutely perfect if you’re looking for winter fun in southern Vermont. This rink is also illuminated by twinkle lights, and usually stays open until 10pm. They also typically have the fire pits going to stay warm outdoors for an even more cozy experience.

9. Hit The Slopes

One of the most popular things to do in Vermont in the winter is to head to the mountains and go skiing, and if you ski, this is really an incredible place to go! Some of the best ski resorts in Vermont are:

• Stowe Mountain

The most popular (and crowded) of the ones on this list is Stowe Mountain, and that’s largely because it’s also such a picturesque town that so many people want to enjoy during their ski trip. Honestly, I think it’s worth it, and for me, Stowe is always worth braving the crowds regardless of the season.

If you’re looking for a quieter ski resort experience, Jay Peak is awesome. There’s less of a town scene there, but it’s still very scenic with some great restaurants, and the slopes are far less crowded than popular places like Killington and Stowe. Okemo is also one that tends to be a little less crowded, and is known as being a great mountain for beginners.

10. Taste The Local Chocolates

While you can, of course, sample all the amazing locally-made chocolates year-round, winter is one of the best seasons to indulge since you won’t have to worry about them melting. Plus, with Valentine’s Day being the perfect occasion for some chocolate tasting, it makes it an even extra special thing to do in Vermont in February.

Vermont is packed with artisanal chocolatiers, and it seems no matter where you go in the state, you’re bound to find a place where you can sample some amazing chocolate made close by.

A few really great places to pick up some delicious, locally-made chocolates in Vermont are:

• Chocolate Barn in Shaftsbury
• Lake Champlain Chocolates in Burlington, Stowe, and Waterbury
• Tavernier Chocolates in Brattleboro
• Farmhouse Chocolates in Bristol
• Daily Chocolate

11. Go Maple Syrup Tasting & Stock Up On Maple Candies

Not only is chocolate one of the best things to nibble on during your visit, you’ll also want to hit up some sugar shacks and taste some of the local maple syrups. Bonus tip: this is also a great time of the year to stock up on freshly made maple candies.

Once there, they have a sugar house set-up for visitors that’s open in the winter, and off syrup tastings, and even their own cheese that you can buy.

Sugar shacks can be found all over the state, and all you really need to do is take a drive, and you’ll run into one. But if you happen to be in the Woodstock area, I highly recommend Sugarbush Farms. It’s located about 5 miles outside the village of Woodstock, and you’ll go down a hilly gravel road that makes just getting there quite an adventure. The grounds are very scenic and surrounded by mountains, too.

And of course, we can’t forget about the maple candies, which are abundant everywhere in Vermont. From lollipops to hard candies to soft, chewy creations, it’s impossible to not find them at any country or Vermont store. And with maple pairing so well with the flavors of the winter season, this is a great time to try them all.

12. Tackle The Longest Ice Skating Trail In The U.S.

The Lake Morley Resort in Fairlee is home to the Lake Morey Skate Trail, and at over 4 miles long, it’s the longest in the entire country!

The trail is free to use if you bring your own skates (and rentals are available if you don’t!), and with the gorgeous Vermont mountain scenery as your backdrop, this is the perfect way to spend a winter day.

For a really unique experience, you can also plan to visit for one of their Glow Skate weekends, where from 5-8pm, the ice is aglow in bright, rainbow colors. Seasonal cocktails are also served at their lounge for the perfect, apres skate treat!

Pro Tip : Be sure to check weather and ice conditions before you arrive to ensure the lake is safe for skating. Click here to check the daily ice conditions on the resort’s website .

13. Experience The Magic Of Maple At Billings Farm

Speaking of maple, one of the most fun experiences in Vermont in the winter season is visit Billings Farm (again!) and experience their Magic of Maple event.

Every day from mid to late February, the farm does an amazing job showcasing what the sugaring process is like from tree tap to bottle, and features events like sleigh rides, sugar on snow demonstrations, maple popcorn recipe demonstrations and so much more.

14. Take A Pottery Class At Farmhouse Pottery

If the outdoor weather is too frightful, head inside and try a new skill. One of the coolest things to do in Vermont in the winter is to take a pottery class at Farmhouse Pottery. If you’re in the Woodstock area, popping into this beautiful shop is something that should be on everyone’s list. The store is beautifully merchandised with their hand-thrown pieces, and you can even watch artisans at the wheel making these heirloom-quality creations.

But did you know you can actually get a pottery wheel lesson right at the studio with one of the master artisans? They call them Clay Dates or Wheel Workshops on their website, and this is such a fun experience. My husband and I did one during a chilly February afternoon, and it was a great way to warm up inside while learning something new. It was a truly wonderful experience that I’ll never forget.

They also offer different options including morning workshops with mimosas, or afternoon sessions with wine and cheese. Click here for more information .

15. Backcountry Adventure Dinner

Okay, so maybe one of the most amazing experiences to have in Vermont in the winter is head out into the backcountry with a fully catered, chef-created dining experience.

Adventure Dinner is a really cool and unique company that curates bespoke dining events in gorgeous locations, and has expanded to offer a winter outdoor dining event. The Love Trek adventure begins with snowshoeing through scenic woods, and includes four fire-cooked courses and drink pairings that are scattered throughout the trail.

The entire experience is self-guided, so you can go at your own pace, and then end by a toasty fire to enjoy your last course. Leashed dogs are even welcome!

16. Hunt For Epic Landscapes Covered By Snow

One of the great things about any state in New England is experiencing famous and scenic landscapes in different seasons, as each season highlights something new about its natural beauty. In winter, you can enjoy some amazing views under a blanket of white snow.

Landscapes that have red barns or red covered bridges are especially beautiful against the white snow this time of the year. So one of the best things to do in Vermont in the winter is to grab your camera and a map, and plan a scenic drive to see some of them in person. Need some tips to get started? Click on the link below to read my itinerary for the best self-guided covered bridge tour in Vermont .

17. Attend The Stowe Winter Carnival

We’re heading back to Stowe to talk about their very fun winter carnival, which has been happening every year since 1921. Regarded as one of the top winter carnivals in the entire country, the Stowe Winter Carnival takes place toward the end of January (often the third weekend) and is packed with all kinds of exciting wintery events.

During the carnival, the entire town is transformed into a winter wonderland (which is crazy, because it’s already a picture-perfect winter town as it is). You’ll see ice sculptures pop up around town with ice sculpting demonstrations, fun winter sporting events and live music with dance parties.

18. Snow Tubing, Snowshoeing and Snowmobiling … Oh My!

There’s no shortage of outdoor winter activities in Vermont, and one of the best things to do this time of the year is to try a new one you haven’t done before.

One of my favorites is snow tubing. As much as I also love downhill skiing, snow tubing is a really fun way to feel like a kid playing in the snow, and there are a few snow tubing parks throughout the state that make for a perfect afternoon outside. Killington, Okemo and Magic Mountain all have great tubing parks you can check out.

Snowshoeing is also a time-honored tradition and peaceful winter outdoor activity in Vermont. You can find groomed trails all over the state, or rent snowshoes and head out on your own for a thrilling adventure.

And finally, snowmobiling. For those looking for more of a thrill, you’ll definitely want to check out renting a snowmobile or taking a tour. A few awesome places to look into are Snowmobile Vermont in Killington, Okemo and Stowe, and Vermont Mountain Adventures near Manchester. But no matter where you are in the state, you’re sure to find a place offering rentals or tours nearby.

19. Taste The Local Spirits & Seasonal Brews

Tasting the local spirits is another one the fun things you can do in Vermont year-round, but since liquor offers that wonderful, warming sensation, this is especially fun in the winter. There are some amazing craft distilleries in Vermont that offer tastings and cocktail bars with fun, winter speciality drinks you can order. Here are some of my favorites to check out:

• Vermont Spirits Distilling Co. in Hartford
• Village Garage Distillery in Bennington
• Smugglers’ Notch Distillery in Burlington
• Green Mountain Distillers in Morristown
• Killington Distillery in Killington

This is just a small sampling of all the wonderful distilleries in Vermont, but these are some of the best to get you started in planning your itinerary.

In addition to spirits, Vermont is an amazing state to explore if you love craft breweries. There’s no shortage of them all over, and one of the best things to do in the winter is sample the seasonal selections they’ve curated that highlight the flavors of the season, in addition to their best-selling standby favorites. Here are a few you can check out during your visit:

• Zero Gravity
• The Alchemist
• Burlington Beer Company
• Switchback Brewing Co.
• Foam Brewers

20. Enjoy A Cozy Gourmet Dinner Inside A Ski Gondola

The Hermitage Inn in Dover offers an amazing and cozy gourmet dining experience, which is served inside your own private ski gondola outdoors! While the gondolas are outside, they are heated, so you get the best of world worlds for a true wintery experience.

The Hermitage Inn is an idyllic property in southern Vermont, and you’ll have to cross a beautiful covered bridge to access the property, so that alone is already a great start! Once you’re seated inside the gondola, you’re treated to a seasonal menu filled with incredible choices (including fondu!), and expert wine pairings. In fact, the inn has won awards in wine excellence, so I highly recommend going for the wine pairing if that appeals to you.

If the gondola experience isn’t quite up your alley, you can also choose to book a table for their private wine cellar dinners, which are also incredible.

21. Take A Memorable Sleigh Ride

One of the best winter activities in Vermont is to head out on a horse-drawn sleigh ride through a scenic wintery forest, and there are lots of places to choose from.

One of my favorites is Taylor Farm in Londonderry, which starts off in a scenic open field, meanders through the woods, and then ends at a cozy warming hut where they serve hot apple cider. It’s truly a magical experience!

Best Things To Do In Burlington, VT In The Winter

With Burlington being such an exciting and fun destination in Vermont, many people choose to base themselves there during their trip (which is an excellent choice). If you plan to visit Burlington during your getaway, here are all the best things to do in Burlington, VT in the winter during your stay.

22. Enjoy The Glow Of Twinkle Lights On Church Street

Church Street Marketplace is a fun pedestrian shopping destination in the heart of downtown Burlington, and in the evenings in the winter, it’s completely aglow with twinkle lights.

Start your evening on Church Street with a stroll through the shops, then grab a cozy Italian meal at Pascolo Ristorante and then end your night at Lake Champlain Chocolate for dessert. This is the perfect way to spend a chilly, wintery evening in Burlington.

23. Grab A Hot Cocoa From Nu Chocolat

Nu Chocolate is an incredible place for a cup of hot cocoa in the winter season, especially because it’s topped with homemade whipped cream. Swing by and grab a cup before you start your day in Burlington.

And while you’re there, you’ll probably be tempted to pick up some of their gorgeous hand-crafted chocolates (I know, I know – more chocolate!). This family-owned business is run by master chocolatiers, and the pieces are absolutely stunning works of art. This is a wonderful place to create a gorgeous box of chocolates for Valentine’s Day, too. But yes, definitely start with the hot cocoa!

24. The Archives

For some fun nightlife in Burlington, VT in the winter, one of the coolest things to do is head to The Archives, which is an arcade game bar that also serves up yummy food. You’ll find awesome vintage arcade games here like Pac Man and Donkey Kong, and also some newer ones. And the food and drinks are actually really good! This is the perfect place to come in from the cold on a winter night and have some fun.

25. Take A Wintery Stroll Along Lake Champlain

A walk along lake Champlain is one of the best things to do in Burlington year-round, including winter. I never tire of the path along the lake, and even on a cold day in the dead of winter, it’s just as beautiful and relaxing. It actually seems more peaceful in the winter to me, and I personally love a winter stroll around a lake.

The path begins at the Waterfront Park in Burlington, and from there, you’ll be able to see the two lighthouses that overlook the lake, and even continue your walk for up to 8 miles on the Greenway, the paved path that follows the shoreline of the lake. In the winter, you may even see people using it to cross-country ski.

Best Towns To Stay In Vermont In The Winter

Some of the best places to stay in Vermont in the winter are:

Stowe, Woodstock and Waitsfield are all amazing places to stay in Vermont in the winter for those looking to strike the perfect balance between cozy towns with lots to do and skiing and/or outdoor activities. All have access to awesome mountains for skiing, and have cute little towns that are perfect for the apres ski scene after sunset. Stowe and Woodstock are among the more picturesque towns in Vermont year-round, too.

Manchester is also beautiful, with access to skiing at Stratton Mountain, and is conveniently located in Southern Vermont for those who don’t want to drive further north.

Killington is centrally located, and is one of the top destinations for skiing in Vermont. The nightlife in Killington is also great with a really cool apres ski scene.

And Burlington is an awesome place to stay if you’re looking to stay in a city. It has everything from great breweries, shops and restaurants, and it’s also easy to get to some of the other towns on this list for day trips.

Best Places To Stay In Vermont In The Winter

Depending on what kind of winter getaway you’re looking to have in Vermont, you’ll find all kinds of amazing places to stay this time of the year. From upscale ski lodges, to cozy inns, to comfortable motels, you’ll find it all – even amazing cabin rentals. Here are a few of my favorite places to check out for a winter stay.

Luxury : The Lodge at Spruce Peak is really the ultimate Vermont resort destination in the winter because of its location in Stowe, and the fact that the entire resort turns into its own winter wonderland . You’ll find twinkle lights strung everywhere, hot cocoa creations being served, the restaurants will feature the perfect comfort food options, and of course, there’s the beautiful ice rink right there on the grounds. You’ll also find a spa here for an afternoon of rest and restoration.

❄︎ Click here to winter check rates & availability at the Lodge at Spruce Peak

Luxury : The Woodstock Inn & Resort is an amazing choice if you want to stay in Woodstock. It’s been named Vermont’s most beautiful address , and is located in the heart of Woodstock’s village, so you can walk everywhere. During the winter, you’ll find cozy rooms, restaurants and an incredible spa on-site. The only downside is that you’ll probably never want to leave the hotel.

❄︎ Click here to check winter rates & availability at the Woodstock Inn & Resort

Moderate : The Green Mountain Inn is a great place for a cozy and romantic winter getaway in Stowe. Located right on Main Street in the heart of the village, it’s also the perfect location. Book a jacuzzi room and unwind after a day of skiing or playing in the snow!

❄︎ Click here to check winter rates & availability at the Green Mountain Inn

Budget : The White Horse Lodge in Waitsfield is very fairly priced for Vermont in the winter, and is super cozy and comfortable . The common room features a gorgeous fireplace that’s perfect for warming up after a day outside in the cold, and it’s only a short drive from the Mad River Glen ski area.

❄︎ Click here to check rates & availability at the White Horse Lodge

Cabin Rental : This cozy cabin/tiny house rental is perfect for two people, and features a mini fireplace, an outdoor fire pit and hot tub, and is also pet-friendly! The location is great because it’s secluded for the ultimate romantic getaway, but is within an hour from Stowe, Burlington and Woodstock to take day trips.

❄︎ Click here to check winter rates & availability at this cozy Vermont cabin for two

What To Pack For Vermont In The Winter

Vermont in the winter, especially up in the northern areas like Stowe, can get pretty chilly, so you’ll want to come prepared. Here are some things I recommend you pack for your Vermont winter getaway.

• Sweaters and turtlenecks to layer.
• Jeans will do just fine for exploring towns and going out to dinner.
• Long underwear or base layers for any outdoor activities.
• Hand warmers for being outside all day.
• Wool socks. I recommend Darn Tough Socks made right in Vermont . Check them out here for men and women . They’re so worth the price, and are great for staying warm and dry.
• A good parka. I really love Eddie Bauer parkas , and they’ve served me very well over the years.
• Warm, waterproof boots. These Sorel Boots are my tried and true for winter.
• Going out boots. These are my favorite for casual dinners or exploring towns, while also staying warm.
• Hats, gloves and scarves. You’ll want a nice warm hat like this one for exploring all day.
• Snow pants for skiing or outdoors activities.

Important info on New England winter weather: The last couple of years, New England has been impacted by Global Warming, and winter has seen the biggest shift in weather patterns. Just in 2023 and 2024 alone during my winter travels, I’ve experienced -20°F wind chills, followed by days in the 50’s (F). Also, huge rain storms with winds over 50mph and flooding that took out buildings along the coast. And of course, just regular old snow.

All this to say, I highly suggest checking weather forecasts a few days prior to your trip , as experts are saying the new trend for winter in this region is extremes. While it’s generally cold and snowy, it’s also warm on some days, rainy on others, and everything in between.

Tips For Visiting Vermont In The Winter

• If you’re flying in and renting a car, I strongly suggest you ask the rental company for a 4WD vehicle or an SUV. Chances are, you’ll be okay without this, but if a blizzard or significant snowfall comes through during your stay, the last thing you want is to get stuck somewhere. Most rental car places in the U.S. don’t offer snow tires, but a larger car with 4WD should be perfect.
• That said, Vermont does a great job plowing roads and keeping them clear to drive, so it’s not something you should stress about. Just have awareness, and then have fun!
• Vermont winter weather can vary, and while generally, it’s cold and snowy, you could have warm-ish sunny days, too. Check the weather forecast before your trip to tailor your packing accordingly. But know that nights will always be chilly, so plan to layer up.
• Get travel insurance. For any winter trip, regardless of how far I’m going (even for a two-hour drive to Vermont!), I always get travel insurance because more things can go wrong in the winter due to weather than any other season. This will help you with delayed and/or cancelled flights, and having to cancel or change hotel reservations last-minute.
• In the popular destinations, expect crowds. Vermont of one of the most popular New England states in the winter (hopefully now you see why!), so it’s good to expect that you’ll experience crowds. Places like Stowe and Woodstock will be especially busy. Making reservations for dinner is a really good idea.
• Have the best time! Vermont is simply magical in the winter, and it’ll be a trip to remember for a lifetime.

More Of My Vermont Travel Guides:

• Vermont In The Fall
• Vermont In The Spring
• All The Best Things To Do In Vermont
• Things To Do In Woodstock, VT
• Things To Do In Stowe, VT
• Best Places To Stay In Vermont In The Fall
• What Is Vermont Known For? I’ll Tell You!
• Vermont Covered Bridge Road Trip Itinerary
• Best Vermont Pumpkin Patches & Farm Stands To Visit In The Fall
• Christmas In Vermont: All The Most Festive Things To Do
• Best Things To Do In Waterbury, VT
• Awesome Corn Mazes In Vermont
• Best Time To Visit Vermont

You may also enjoy:

• Best New England Winter Getaways
• Best Stops To Make Driving From Boston To Stowe, VT
• Best Things To Do in New Hampshire in the Winter
• Best Things To Do In Maine In The Winter
• Best Things To Do In Portland, Maine In The Winter

That’s A Wrap On The Best Things To Do In Vermont In The Winter

And there you have it! Now that you know about the best things to do in Vermont in the winter, hopefully you’re getting ready to plan your own winter getaway to the Green Mountain State. Whether you’re planning a festive Christmas vacation, are hoping for a cozy and romantic winter getaway, or are excited for the apres ski scene, Vermont has everything you could possibly wish for to make it one of your best getaways yet.

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15 Best Things to Do in Vermont in Winter

Written by Lura R. Seavey Updated Jan 20, 2023 We may earn a commission from affiliate links ( )

Author Lura Seavey has enjoyed skiing and playing in Vermont since childhood and visits frequently throughout the year, with her most recent trip in November 2022.

Vermont is one of the loveliest places to visit in the winter, with idyllic villages blanketed in snow, plenty of outdoor fun, and a great variety of things to do indoors for the extra chilly days. The state is home to many excellent ski resorts , where tourists will find skiing, snowboarding, tubing, and many other classic things to do in winter.

Vermont inns and bed and breakfasts are also a destination in their own right, hosting couples for romantic getaways , singles and friends for themed retreats, and families for some old-fashioned quality time together.

Whatever your interests, you will find plenty of options in our list of things to do in Vermont in Winter.

1. Downhill Skiing and Snowboarding

2. treat yourself to a spa getaway, 3. cross-country skiing and snowshoeing, 4. horse-drawn sleigh rides, 5. go on a dogsledding adventure at eden dog sledding, 6. learn to cook with the pros at the essex resort & spa, 7. go on a crafting retreat, 8. storm watching, 9. dine on a mountaintop, 10. sledding and tubing, 11. ski after dark, 12. go shopping at church street marketplace in burlington, 13. mountain bike on the snow with a fat bike, 14. take a winter zipline canopy tour at smugglers' notch, 15. learn about vermont's weather at the fairbanks museum, map of things to do in vermont in winter.

Ludlow's Okemo Mountain Resort is one of the best ski resorts on the East Coast , featuring 121 trails (and counting) with top-rate snowmaking and grooming. RFID ticketing ensures quick access to the high-speed chairlifts, ensuring that skiers and boarders spend their time on the slopes instead of waiting in line. Snowboarders will be impressed by Okemo's nine terrain parks and the longest superpipe in the east.

Stowe Mountain Resort occupies Mt. Mansfield and Spruce Peak in Stowe, and is another one of Vermont's top ski resorts . The mountains boast 19 beginner trails, 116 intermediate trails, and 29 expert runs that are accessed via conventional lifts and gondolas, as well as three terrain parks for snowboarding and a freestyle terrain for kids who are learning.

Both Stowe and Okemo are part of Vail's Epic Pass program, a bonus for visitors who want to try out more than one mountain.

Other excellent mountains for downhill skiing and boarding include Jay Peak, Stratton Mountain, Killington, Smuggler's Notch, Bolton Valley, Mount Snow in West Dover, Bromley Mountain in Peru, Magic Mountain in Londonderry, and two in the town of Warren: Mad River Glen and Sugarbush.

Somehow it's just that much easier to relax when the world around you is blanketed in snow and the world seems to pause in appreciation – and that's when it's the perfect time to indulge in a spa getaway. Although, a spa escape is a popular thing to do in Vermont at any time of year.

Topnotch Resort on Stowe's Mt. Mansfield is an ideal spot to get pampered with a view, offering a full suite of services, including a variety of massage techniques, reiki and energy healing, and several skincare options – all within a gorgeous facility with stunning views.

The Equinox, Golf Resort & Spa hotel in Manchester is home to a full-service spa in a peaceful setting, with the added benefit of great shopping nearby at Manchester Center outlets.

Castle Hill Resort And Spa in Cavendish is another top spa destination in Vermont, specializing in honeymoon and anniversary packages, as well as weddings. Their spa offers a full range of services, including couples' treatments.

Most Vermont ski areas offer cross-country trails , and among those, Stowe Mountain Resort and Smuggler's Notch Resort in Jeffersonville offer some of the most diverse terrain. Those who are going just for the cross-country skiing have many other excellent options, though, all of which avoid the hustle and bustle of a big ski resort in winter.

Tourists interested in trying out snowshoeing should ask their inn or resort, as many have equipment readily available to rent or borrow.

The Trapp Family Lodge in Stowe has operated a Nordic cross-country ski center since 1968, offering rentals, lessons, a kids' club, and almost a hundred miles of trails. You don't have to stay at the lodge to enjoy the ski center, but once you see it, you will wish you had — the beautiful property features ski-in and ski-out chalets, an on-site spa and fitness center, swimming pool, multiple restaurants, and plenty of indoor activities for all ages.

Another excellent choice for cross-country skiing is the non-profit Craftsbury Outdoor Center , located on Big Hosmer Pond and offering over 50 miles of trails, as well as rentals and lessons.

Other top choices include the Hazen's Notch Association in Montgomery, with 40 miles of trails; the Woodstock Nordic Center , located right next door to the Woodstock Inn & Resort ; and the Bolton Nordic Center in Richmond , which specializes in backcountry skiing on its 12,000 acres.

For the most authentic horse-pulled sleigh ride, visit a traditional Vermont farm like the Adams Family Farm in Wilmington . Belgian draft horses pull the sleigh through the maple trees and evergreens to a cozy log cabin stocked with hot cocoa and a warm fire, where guests relax and warm up before the ride back, an hour-and-a-half trip total.

Their sleighs can accommodate up to 15 people, and there are also private couples' rides for an extra special romantic date.

The Trapp Family Lodge also offers horse-drawn sleigh rides on weekends that explore this lovely 2,500-acre resort, which is reminiscent of the Alpine origins of the von Trapp family. The resort is located in Stowe , one of the top places to visit in Vermont and one of its loveliest small towns , home to the Stowe Mountain Resort , the Vermont Ski Museum, and more.

Located in Eden Mills, Eden Ethical Dog Sledding offers tours that are thrilling and scenic while also being educational.

Owned and operated by dogsledding and Skijoring champion Jim Blair, Eden takes pride in their care for the Alaskan huskies who work hard to make every visit special. The huskies are treated like family and are friendly to all, and the facility takes pride in their "chain-free" approach that puts the dogs' health and happiness first.

Guests enjoy the chance to get to know their canine guides before each ride on the custom-designed trails , and packages are available for those who want to tour the facility and learn more about the care and training of the pups.

If you find yourself in the area during the summer, take one of their unique "dogsledding on wheels" tours that includes playtime with the dogs at a pond. No matter what time of year you visit, be sure to reserve your spot early.

Another good dogsledding operator is Atii Sled Dogs Mad River Valley in Moretown, and both of these facilities also offer rental equipment and trail use for skijoring .

Whether you're a couple looking for an interesting getaway, a family looking for something new, or craving a fun girls' weekend up north, a stay at The Essex Resort and Spa offers far more than its excellent amenities and luxe accommodations.

Guests can enroll in the Cook Academy, an on-site cooking school led by some of the top chefs in the business. They offer a range of small-group classes that focus on various techniques, foods, and themes, allowing you to get hands-on in their state-of-the-art learning kitchen.

Culinary Courses: You can take a course on culinary foundations that helps you improve your basic kitchen skills, learn how to cook a Sunday brunch the neighbors will talk about for years, make sushi, bake bread and goodies, up your BBQ game tenfold, or learn about the tools and techniques needed to create show-stopping decorated cakes.

Guests can also take group or private lessons that walk you through a three-course meal from start to finish—which, of course, you get to eat when you're done!

You can also watch the chefs work their magic at the Junction Interactive Restaurant , a unique establishment that features an open kitchen and a quirky dining room, elevating the five-star fine dining experience to new heights.

As more people look to reconnect with hobbies and their creative pursuits, craft-themed retreats are becoming more common, and a cozy Vermont Inn is the perfect setting for some uninterrupted crafting time.

The Strong House Inn in Vergennes specializes in quilting retreats, offering two- to four-day retreats that include the use of their sewing machines and plenty of space to work, as well as lodgings in their beautiful inn. Offering varying themes, some are for those who want to bring their own projects, and others are classes that focus on special projects, including an instructor and all the required materials.

The Mountaineer Inn in Dover offers knitting retreat packages that include lodgings and meals, as well as individual assistance with projects. Sheep to Shawl Knitting Studio in Barton also coordinates knitting retreats, partnering with top-notch Vermont hosts like the Trapp Family Lodge and the Highland Lodge .

It's a rare Vermont winter when there isn't a good snow on a regular basis, and for those lucky enough to be visiting during a snow storm (big or small), having the right place to enjoy it from is key. Ideally, the best place to be is where there is a good view of the landscape, a toasty fireplace or outdoor fire pit, cocoa and snacks, and good company.

The historic Rabbit Hill Inn in St. Johnsbury is a great choice for couples, and adults-only getaways, offering luxury suites with fireplaces, and private balconies with views of the White Mountains . If you get snowed in, there is plenty to keep you occupied on-site, including snowshoeing, spa services, and a well-stocked game room.

Mountaintop dining can be perfect for a special occasion, a unique romantic dining experience, or even as an adventure. Most of these restaurants are open only when the lifts are in operation, although some can be accessed via snowcat or even snowshoe. No matter how you get here, a memorable meal is guaranteed.

Stowe's Cliff House is accessible by gondola for a cozy and scenic ride up Mt. Mansfield . This fine restaurant features a wall of windows that overlook the valley and surrounding mountains, and an exhibition kitchen where guests can watch some of the best chefs in Vermont prepare mouthwatering meals from local ingredients. Although typically open only for lunch, be sure to check for special nighttime meals that reveal the sparkling town below.

The Mid Mountain Lodge at Stratton Mountain Resort is accessed via lift or snowcat, open for lunch only except for a few evenings in the winter; reservations are required for all meals.

At Smugglers' Notch Resort , guests can take the ski lift to Top of the Notch Cabin and, if they choose, make their way back down by snowshoe.

Killington Mountain boasts two mountain dining options, including the Motor Room and the Ledgewood Yurt , a unique restaurant that offers candlelight dinners.

Sugarbush Resort also has two options: the Glen House on Mount Ellen for casual fare or Allyn's Lodge , which offers fireside dining with multi-course meals.

Kids and adults alike can enjoy the thrill of flying down a snowy slope without the unexpected risks of a hidden rock or runaway sled on a professional tubing hill, or go for the full experience on one of the many public sledding hills throughout Vermont.

Tourists will find tubing hills at all the major ski areas in Vermont , and Okemo Mountain Resort also offers the Timber Ripper Mountain Coaster , a unique roller coaster that operates year-round.

Visitors can also find sledding hills maintained by local businesses and towns. In Chittenden, the Mountain Top Inn & Resort offers sledding and tubing, and Ascutney Outdoors Center has a 500-foot tubing hill with a lift. The Wildflower Inn in Lyndonville also offers sledding and other winter activities.

There are also plenty of free sledding and tubing hills for those who don't mind the climb in-between runs. In Woodstock , the Mt. Tom sledding hill is on the grounds of the Rainbow Playschool, within walking distance of the center of town.

The Quechee Club , part of Highland Golf Club, also permits the public to enjoy its groomed sledding hill, which is fenced for safety. In St. Albans , the Hard'ack Recreation Area offers sledding, and even has a limited number of sleds to borrow.

Skiers and snowboarders who want to experience the magic of after-dark skiing won't find it at the big resorts, but at Bolton Valley , it's still offered five nights a week.

Visitors get more slope time for their money with a day ticket valid for the full 13 hours the lifts are in operation, and those who have other plans during the day can swing by for just the evening at a significantly reduced rate for six full hours of night skiing and boarding.

As a bonus, the ski area's slopes face west, giving guests a spectacular view of the sunset as they ascend on the lift.

One of the most idyllic winter scenes is Burlington's Church Street, where the white spire of a church stands watch over a lively pedestrian street. Four blocks long, this picturesque stretch of shops and restaurants housed in historic buildings is paved with multi-colored bricks, and full of shoppers year-round.

You might have to step outside between stores, but even on a blustery day when the wind is coming off the lake at speed, the next shop is just steps away. Start at the southern end by City Hall to get a hot coffee or tea at Muddy Waters , then make your way north to find a variety of shops.

You'll find plenty of clothing stores, from big-name brands to vintage shops full of unique finds, as well as gift shops, jewelers, and plenty of local businesses selling everything from books to specialty foods. You'll find more stores on the cross streets nearby, and a staggering number of restaurants to keep you fueled for the shopping.

Christmas Visits: If you're visiting during the holidays, you're in for a real treat, as the trees sparkle with decorations along the sidewalks, adding Christmas cheer to your shopping excursion. If you're lucky, carolers might just be serenading you as you stroll by.

Read More: Top-Rated Attractions & Things to Do in Burlington

The advent of wider tires has opened up new terrain for cyclists, quite literally, and taking to snow-covered trails is one of the most popular ways to enjoy the outdoors in the winter.

Major Vermont ski areas like Killington and Stratton Mountain either offer rentals on-site or partner with local sports outfitters so you can try it out, so if you're already in Vermont for a skiing or snowboarding getaway, this is a great opportunity to give it a shot.

Stowe's Trails: If you've already got experience or are ready to hit the open trails, Stowe is full of extensive trails that are used regularly for fat biking. These include those at Cady Hill Forest, Edson Hill, and the Stowe Recreation Path, among others.

The Stowe Trails Partnership is an excellent resource to find even more, and the area has several rental shops, including Ranch Camp , AJ's Ski & Sports , and Pinnacle Ski & Sports . Stowe also hosts the Stowe Derby, which includes fat biking in its annual race each February.

Vermont's Northeast Kingdom is home to a 31-mile network of trails groomed for fat bikes that is maintained by Kingdom Trails.

For a different spin on a typical summer thrill excursion, Smugglers' Notch offers winter canopy tours at ArborTrek 's zipline just above the resort's village. Adventure seekers will get the chance to see the forest as few ever do, snow-covered and from above while sliding down 4,500 feet of zipline.

The excursion can take from two to two and a half hours, and it can be especially chilly on windy days while up at that height, so guests should come prepared and dress warm. There are multiple time slots available daily, as well as additional times if reserved in advance.

The Fairbanks Museum in St. Johnsbury is the perfect place to learn about Vermont's weather and natural world, and the museum's planetarium works in conjunction with Vermont Public Radio's "Eye on the Sky" meteorological team to keep the state informed. This includes the " Eye on the Night Sky" programs , which track significant astronomical events, as well as explore the historical and cultural associations with these events.

A great place to visit for all ages, this tourist attraction is also home to a variety of fascinating natural history exhibits , including specimen collections, a wildflower exhibit, the interactive Exploration Station, and a unique display of "bug art" mosaics created by John Hampson using various insects.

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Vermont in Winter: Things to Do & Places to Visit (2024) ❄️

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Winter in the Green Mountain State is the best of Vermont . The season is both beautiful and entertaining, with incredible snowscapes, and plenty of fun things to do in Vermont in winter. There’s skiing, snowboarding, ice skating, dog sledding, cozying up in a cabin on a snowy day, and so much more! 

I’ve been exploring Vermont in the winter for more than 2 decades, and I’ve discovered the best things to do in Vermont in the winter: the must-do activities that have to be on your winter bucket list. 

And PS: you don’t have to be a skier to enjoy all that a Vermont winter has to offer. I’ve included plenty of ideas for non-skiers (like myself!) on this list. 

I’ve also included some of my favorite Vermont winter getaways, plus where to stay and what to do in each town.

I f you’re looking for specifically Vermont Christmas destinations , there are plenty of those too!

Read Next: The Coziest Winter Getaways in New England

Table of Contents

Best Places to Visit in Vermont in Winter

Woodstock Vermont is the quintessential New England town. It’s small and quaint with plenty to do in town and the surrounding area . Conde Nast Traveler even named it one of The Most Beautiful Towns in America. After hearing that, how can you skip this town?

For a perfectly comfortable and cozy place to stay look no further than The Woodstocker B&B . With only 9 rooms you’ll get amazingly personalized service in a relaxing setting. Plus, it’s in a great location, within walking distance to the downtown shops and restaurants. The house itself dates back to 1830 and has the original post and beams in the dining room as well as the original hardwood floors.

Click Here to Check Prices & Book!

Whether you enjoy being outdoors or toasty warm by the fire there is something for everyone to do. A few outdoor favorites include Nordic skiing and snowshoeing at the Woodstock Nordic Center , sledding down the Old Mt Tom Ski Hill, and taking a sleigh ride at Billings Farm & Museum. For all the skiers and snowboarders out there Suicide Six Ski Area is located right in Woodstock, and Killington is just a 30 minute drive.

For the indoor crowd check out the Vermont Institute of Natural Science, Marsh-Billings-Rockefeller National Historical Park, or enjoy a delicious meal at one of the local restaurants in Woodstock VT .

There are also several popular Vermont winter events held in Woodstock for Christmas . Each December the town holds Wassail Weekend where visitors and locals alike enjoy the historic homes decorated for the holiday season, twinkling lights everywhere, and sleigh rides. 

In March make sure to come and enjoy one of Vermont’s most delicious traditions, Maple Sugar Open House Week. This event happens all over Vermont, but in Woodstock, it’s extra special with so many sugar houses in the area. Enjoy pancake breakfasts, maple sugar tasting, and more!

When visitors think of Vermont winter getaways they usually think of Stowe . With lots of great winter skiing and riding, Stowe and the surrounding area are top reasons Vermont is known as America’s Winter Playground.

With plenty of great hotels and vacation rentals in Stowe, there is something in this Vermont destination for everyone. However, if I could stay anywhere in Stowe, I’d pick the Trapp Family Lodge , hands-down, and not just because I love the Sound of Music.

When the Von Trapps fled Austria they eventually settled in Vermont. They began welcoming guests to the lodge in the summer of 1950 and the lodge has been there ever since. The lodge has sweeping mountain views and is set on 2,500 acres. With cross-country skiing, snowshoeing, a beirhall, brewery, fitness center, and spa this place has everything you could ever want for a mountain escape.

Did you know that Vermont has the most breweries per capita than any other state in the US? And the best one is located right in Stowe, The Alchemist . If you come to Vermont and only visit one brewery, make it the Alchemist, their flagship beer Header Topper is the stuff beer dreams are made of and is heavily sought after by beer lovers. In addition, there are 2 other breweries in Stowe, Von Trapp Brewing and Idletyme Brewing. With 4 other breweries within a 30-minute drive from Stowe, any beer connoisseur will love it here!

For a thrilling outdoor winter Vermont experience try fat biking or snowmobiling. Dog sledding is also one of the most unique activities for thrill-seekers and animal lovers alike. 

Sunrise Mountain Guides has half and full-day ice climbing, classes for all ages and abilities. So if climbing up a frozen waterfall sounds like fun, sign up! If you’re into ice, but don’t want to climb it go on an ice fishing trip with the guides at the Fly Rod Shop .

Of course, you’re going to be working up quite the appetite with all these fun Stowe Vermont winter things to do, but Stowe has plenty of great places to eat , including some fantastic breakfast spots !

The Mad River Valley

A great place to go in Vermont in the winter is the Mad River Valley. The people are lovely and there are plenty of fun things to do there.!

For a secluded place to stay, that is still close to the action stay at the Grunberg Haus . Owned by two Vermont transplants living the Vermont life, this inn is filled with vintage vinyl, snow sports gear adorns the walls, and it is perfect for the social adult traveler. And if that isn’t enough to make you want to come and stay, they have two adorable dogs, Neko and June!

Some must-dos in the Mad River Valley include taking a glass-blowing class at Salt and Sand Studios, exploring the trails at the Blueberry Lake Cross-Country Ski Center, going to the Skatium, an outdoor ice skating rink, and of course, hitting the slopes at Sugarbush ! And no trip to Vermont in winter or any time of year would be complete without heading to the Ben & Jerry’s factory in Waterbury for a tour and some of their delicious ice cream!

One of the best things about the Mad River Valley is the Mad Bus . This free shuttle service takes visitors and locals to various places in the area like Mount Ellen, Lincoln Peak, and the Ski areas. It also operates in the evenings so it’s safe and easy to enjoy the area’s nightlife!

Burlington is the only actual city in Vermont, and I use the word city lightly as it’s not that big. However, like every other town in Vermont, it is oozing with charm and is full of quirkiness.

For your stay in Burlington, you’ve got a ton of great options for hotels , vacation rentals , and more, but if you book a room at the Blind Tiger , you’ll get to stay in a charming historic Queen Anne and Colonial-Georgian Revival-style mansion built in 1881. To say this place is gorgeous is an understatement, and each morning you’ll get a delicious complimentary breakfast to help you start off your day.

Winter in Burlington is extra magical because Church Street Marketplace, a pedestrian road lined with unique shops, restaurants, and cafes is adorned with twinkling lights. No matter the time of year there are always street performers (yes even in winter) and events going on. To make sure you don’t miss out on the fun check the Church Street Events Calendar before your trip.

No matter the season Lake Champlain is a big draw.  A stroll along the lake is great on a sunny winter day in Vermont.

If you’re looking for a day trip head south and stop at the Shelburne Museum. This is one of the best museums in the entire state and it’s nestled on 45 acres with spectacular scenic views. It holds one of the world’s largest collections of American folk art, with artifacts telling the story of Vermont and buildings transported to the museum for preservation.

During your trip to Burlington, you’ll have no problem finding great bars and breweries to check out, like  The Archives Bar. The tasty cocktails aren’t the only draw as this bar is also full of vintage arcade games including Mortal Kombat, the Simpsons, and Ms. Pac-Man. If you’re into live music, Higher Ground hosts some pretty amazing bands and events.

There are also plenty of fantastic restaurants , coffee shops , and breakfast spots in Burlington , too.

Manchester Vermont is another gorgeous small town with excellent restaurants and plenty of shopping within driving distance of 3 ski resorts. While I’m a little biased because I used to live in the area, I’d say Manchester is one of the most magical places in Vermont during the winter.

For a great place to stay in Manchester within walking distance of downtown, check out the Inn at Manchester . With 21 beautifully decorated guest rooms, 12 of which are suites, you might have a hard time leaving the inn. The breakfast is to die for, the fireplaces are always lit, and the living room style pub serves up tastes drinks.

If you come to Manchester and don’t eat at the Ye Old Tavern, you’re missing out. It originally opened in 1709, long before Vermont became a colony or state, as the Stagecoach Inn and has been open under one name or another ever since. As for the food, WOW! I’ve never had a meal I didn’t love there. Some favorites include the cranberry fritters with maple butter, the homemade mac and cheese (sometimes they have lobster mac), and the chocolate cake.

As for snow sports in the area; Stratton , Bromley, and Magic Mountain are all within a 45 minutes drive or less from Manchester. If you or a family member is just learning a ski or snowboard go to Bromley. It is the smallest of the 3 mountains in the area and is less intimidating for those new to the sport. 

Some other great activities in Manchester are visiting Hildene, the Lincoln Family Home where you can see one of the three remaining stovepipe hats belonging to President Abraham Lincoln. Make sure to stop downtown at Pastime Pinball which is a fusion museum/arcade with over 60 pinball machines from the 1950s to today. When you’re done playing pinball cross the street and head over to Vermont’s best independent bookstore Northshire Bookstore.

The Lake Morey Area

There are so many areas of Vermont that are underrated, and Lake Morey is one of those areas. Well-secluded and not heavily trafficked, you might feel like you have the snow-dusted Vermont winter all to yourself.

The best place to stay in the area is the family-owned and operated Lake Morey Resort . The big draw to the Lake Morey Resort in winter in their 4.5 mile long ice skating trail. The trail weaves around Lake Morey as Vermont provides a beautiful winter backdrop.  In addition, they have an indoor pool, movie theater, VAST trail access, and cross country ski trails and rentals.

For a little extra relaxation, book a massage, or enjoy the farm-to-table dinner menu at the Lakeside Dining Room. And with annual events like a Winter Carnival and a Pond Hockey Tournament, it’s fun for the whole family!

Outside of the resort, you’ll find activities scattered throughout Fairlee, Vermont, and the surrounding area. Head over to Chapman’s General store for all things Vermont from maple syrup to souvenirs (and their excellent wine selection!). For the kids jump in the car for a short 15 minute ride to the Montshire Museum of Science . By far the best children’s museum in the state, their buildings and trails are full of hands on learning and discovery. Visit with their turtles, discover the science of bubbles, and more.

King Arthur Flour is based out of Norwich, Vermont is just a 20 minute drive from the Lake Morey Resort. They hold baking classes in their test kitchen which is attached to their bakery and retail store. Classes are for beginners, children, and seasoned bakers alike and range from one day to week-long events. Learn how to make the perfect homemade bread or dabble in eclairs. This will be the highlight of the trip for any baking enthusiast, and is certainly a unique Vermont winter activity!

There are so many great places to go to enjoy winter getaways in Vermont, and the beauty of Vermont at winter time is that pretty much everywhere you go will have those picturesque, snowy New England winter views. Book a cozy cabin with a fireplace and just have a relaxing Vermont winter getaway as the snow comes down outside. How does that sound for a fantastic Vermont winter getaway?

Best Things to Do in Vermont in Winter

Go dog sledding.

Have you ever been dog sledding? It’s a unique Vermont winter activity that is fun for all ages. There are several options for where to go dog sledding in Vermont , with one spot being especially popular with dog lovers: Eden Ethical Dog Sledding Experience . At this VT dog sledding place, dogs are free to roam the 140-acre farm, free of chains. Eden Ethical Dog Sledding Experience also offered wheeled dog sledding experiences, so if there’s no snow, it’s no problem!

Play at a Ski Resort

When it comes to things to do in Vermont in winter, ski resorts always reign supreme! Not only will you have a blast hitting the slopes, but ski resorts often offer all kinds of great winter activities like snowshoeing, fat biking, XC skiing, ice skating, and more, plus many have great accommodations. 

For a great ski resort to stay at during your Vermont winter vacation, consider booking a stay at Jay Peak Resort , where there’s plenty at fantastic outdoor VT winter things to do, plus an incredible indoor water park, spa, restaurants, a kids adventure center, and more.  Click Here to Check Prices & Book!

Read Next: The Best Winter Weekend Getaways New England | Must-Visit Ski Resorts in New England

Go Ice Skating

Ice skating is such a classic winter in Vermont thing to do! Not only is there plenty of indoor ice skating across the state, but you’ll also find great outdoor ice skating in Vermont , too. If outdoor ice skating sounds like something you’d like to check out, consider a trip to the Lake Morey Skate Trail, the longest in the US at 4.3 miles. 

Use of the Skate Trail is free, but donations are encouraged. Rentals and supplies are available in the resort, but check the Facebook page for ice conditions before you go: this is the nature of outdoor ice skating in Vermont, you’ll have to follow Mother Nature’s lead! Ice skating is always a very cute Vermont winter date thing to do, too.

Cozy up in a Vermont cabin

One of the best things to do in Vermont in winter is to rent yourself a cozy little cabin. Well, it doesn’t have to be little, but bonus points if you can rent a cabin or a cottage with a fireplace so you can snuggle up in front of a crackling fire with your favorite person during a cold Vermont winter. 

There are several great options for cabins to rent , but if you want to get a full Vermont winter cabin getaway experience, consider this adorable A-frame style cabin in the woods with a fireplace and a hot tub, close to Mt Snow and Stratton for all kinds of fun winter things to do!

Stowe Winter Carnival

Taking place at the end of January, the Stowe Winter Carnival is one of the most popular Vermont winter things to do for those who can appreciate unique art mediums, like ice sculptures! Not only will you find incredible professional and amateur ice sculpture competitions happening, but there are also ice carving classes, music, dancing, stargazing, and a snow volleyball tournament! This is definitely a unique Vermont winter event, and there are plenty of great restaurants and places to stay in Stowe , so you can make this a part of a fantastic VT winter getaway.

Hang at a Coffee Shop or Brewery

There’s no shortage of either in the great state of Vermont! There are cozy coffee shops that are the perfect place to hunker down with a good book and a steaming hot cup of your favorite beverage and VT breweries that are full of interesting brews and people. Bonus points if you incorporate a visit to a cool, local bookstore before you head out. Whether you’re more in the mood for a hot cup of coffee or a cold craft beer, you’ll find there are plenty of options for where to get a good drink in Vermont!

Go Ice Fishing

Have you ever been ice fishing? Ice fishing is a fun way to get outside and enjoy winter in Vermont. Not only can this be a great winter activity with friends and/or family, but this is also a great solo winter activity in Vermont; either way, you’ll have a blast. Lake Champlain is a very popular VT ice fishing spot, and it puts you right next to all kinds of fun Burlington things to see and do!

Go Snow Tubing

For a surefire way to have a blast in the snow in Vermont, go snow tubing. This easily accessible VT winter activity can be enjoyed by most, even those of us who aren’t stellar athletes! There are several great places around the state to go snow tubing , and it’s one of those activities that are family-friendly for most ages, so if you’re looking for great things to do in Vermont in winter with kids, add snow tubing to the list. 

Visit a Nordic Center

Nordic centers offer all kinds of fantastic things to do in Vermont in winter, like cross country skiing, snowshoeing, fat biking, and more. If you’re interested in trying these things out but have never done so before, many offer equipment rentals and lessons. Cross country skiing is an amazing way to get out and enjoy the picturesque Vermont countryside while it’s blanketed in snow!

Tour a Vermont Sugar House

One thing Vermont will always be known for is maple syrup. Sugaring season doesn’t technically start until about mid-March, but you can visit Morse Farm Maple Sugarworks throughout the winter for free sugar house tours and tastings, multimedia demonstrations in a woodshed theater, and a store with oh so many delicious maple syrup goodies!

Go Snowmobiling

Another great Vermont winter activity for all fitness levels is snowmobiling. It’s a super fun way to get out and get some speed whipping through the Vermont wilderness! You can check out Snowmobile Vermont and see which of its four snowmobile locations in Vermont is closest to you. This is another great addition to the list of family things to do in winter in Vermont, too, as kids as young as 4 years old can ride with Snowmobile Vermont!

Visit a VT Christmas Tree Farm

Visiting a Christmas tree farm is one of those classic winter things to do in Vermont that is perfect for a visit at Christmastime. You don’t have to be shopping for a giant Christmas tree to visit a tree farm, either, because many offer beautiful handcrafted ornaments and decor that could serve as the perfect souvenir of your Vermont winter vacation. You’ll often find yummy treats available onsite, too, like hot cocoa!

Take  a Ride in a Horse-Drawn Sleigh

For something that could be both the perfect family fun activity and the perfect Vermont winter date idea, check out sleigh rides in VT ! Not only is this a lovely way to enjoy the great outdoors from a unique vantage point, but it’s one of those winter experiences that you’ll never forget. Several Vermont farms and resorts offer sleigh rides, so there’s sure to be one near you!

Christmas Events

Of course, if your Vermont winter trip falls in December, you’re going to find some great Christmas events happening near you! Vermont is full of Christmas charm, including delightful weekend festivities and traditions galore, so if you’re looking for Christmas things to do in Vermont , you’ll most certainly find them. In fact, there are towns in Vermont that transform during the holidays into something that looks straight out of a Hallmark movie ! Here’s looking at you, Woodstock !

If you’re planning a Vermont winter vacation, rest assured, there’s plenty of fun to be found both indoors and out. Whether you’re looking for a cozy, relaxing winter getaway in Vermont, or you’d rather participate in adrenaline-inducing VT winter activities, you’ll find it!

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A Blanket of Snow

Winter in Vermont

Winter transforms Vermont’s landscape into a cozy haven where mountains wear soft blankets of snow and historic downtowns radiate warmth and charm. As the world outside is hushed by falling snowflakes, crackling fireplaces beckon visitors into snug cafes and historic inns. Quaint boutiques offer unique finds, and the allure of snow-covered streets invites leisurely strolls. Vermont’s winter wonderland becomes a playground for outdoors enthusiasts, from the exhilarating slopes of renowned ski resorts to the tranquil beauty of cross-country skiing in a serene forest. A Vermont winter invites you to wrap yourself in the embrace of small-town charm and find solace in the tranquility of the snow-covered landscapes.

Winter for Every Body

Vermont is the ultimate place to explore the outdoors. Find out how spending a weekend skiing still makes you feel relaxed at the end of the day, and how Vermont Adaptive provides people with a disability access to connect with nature.

Ways to Get Outside

Whether you’re an adrenaline seeker or craving quiet, Vermont’s winter offers diverse terrain for outdoor enthusiasts. Embrace the thrill of skiing down powdery slopes or cross-country ski along groomed trails. Try snowshoeing through serene forests, where the crisp air is invigorating and the snow-laden trees create a picturesque winter backdrop.

Skiing and Snowboarding

Whether you crave the thrill of glades and steeps, prefer the gentle slopes for learning, or enjoy the well-groomed trails, Vermont’s diverse terrain caters to every skier’s or snowboarder’s preferences.

Snowmobiling

With a well-marked trail system linking towns together, readable maps and easy access to amenities, Vermont rolls out the white carpet for those hitting the woods for snowmobiling, with more than 5,000 miles of maintained trails.

Snowshoeing

Snowshoeing into serene winter landscapes, where the soft crunch of snow beneath your snowshoes becomes a rhythmic soundtrack to the sights of great outdoors.

Cross-Country Skiing

Explore Vermont’s beautiful landscapes and escape the crowds for a true outdoor experience with the best that cross-country skiing has to offer!

Winter Events

Nature’s Beauty Sets the Stage

Winter in Vermont is a season of festive delights, with events that celebrate the snow-covered landscapes. Ski resorts come alive with the infectious beats of live music at events including Vermont’s gay ski weekend, where après-ski sessions blend seamlessly with the thrill of the slopes. Historic downtowns host winter carnivals and festivals, transforming snow-laden streets into lively spectacles. From ice sculptures that glisten in the winter sun to the laughter echoing from seasonal markets, Vermont’s winter events embrace the season even at its coldest.

SKI VERMONT

Vermont is home to 20 downhill ski areas and thousands of kilometers of cross-country terrain. Ski Vermont is your hub to find a resort, check conditions, and plan your visit.

Historic Downtown

Vermont downtowns are not just destinations; they are invitations to savor the authentic, diverse, and captivating spirit of the Green Mountain State.

Discover art in unexpected places, from vibrant murals brightening historic downtowns to outdoor sculpture parks in harmony with the picturesque surroundings. Engage with the local arts scene, where creativity flourishes in galleries, studios, and grassroots events.

The flavors of Vermont invite travelers on a journey through the state’s rolling hills, picturesque countryside, and historic downtowns, with some seriously delicious roadside stops along the way.

Scenic Drives

Byways and back roads are some of the best ways to explore the state, meandering through historic downtowns and inviting stops at general stores, farmstands, scenic vantage points, and more.

Official Resources

FREE VACATION GUIDE

Vermont Winter Getaways for an Enchanting Weekend

By Author Tara Schatz

Posted on Published: October 26, 2023

Is there anything as magical as a snowy winter in Vermont?

The days may be short and the roads icy, but if anyplace can embrace winter in all its glory, it’s definitely the Green Mountain State, which becomes a winter wonderland between January and March, with cold and snow stretching far beyond that.

You may think that Vermont weekend getaways are only for skiers. Not true! While the mountains of Vermont have been attracting downhill skiers for decades, there is so much more to winter in Vermont than skiing.

The truth is, no matter where you stay in Vermont, you’re not very far from a world-class ski resort, so this post is going to focus on winter destinations in Vermont that have more to offer than just skiing.

If you’re on the fence about visiting Vermont in the winter, let me help you change your mind. Here are a few of our favorite Vermont winter getaways for the perfect snowy weekend.

Table of Contents

Bennington and Manchester, Vermont

Bennington County in Vermont has two shire towns – Bennington in the southern part of the county and Manchester, about 30 minutes north. Between the two towns, there is no shortage of things to do in the winter, whether you’re into outdoor recreation, shopping, or cultural and historical attractions.

Where to Stay in Bennington, Vermont

We recommend spending a night in Bennington and a night in Manchester so you can explore both towns properly. In Bennington, stay at South Shire, the ‘Little Hotel’ with its beautiful Gilded Age decor on an intimate scale. South Shire houses the new Niramit cuisine of Siam , which features upscale, unadulterated Thai food.

For a more budget-friendly option, check out The Hardwood Hill , which features eclectic local artwork in every room.

The Best Hotels in Manchester, Vermont

Check out these beautiful spots for the second night of your Vermont winter getaway:

• Inn at Ormsby Hill : For incredible luxury and attention to detail, you really can’t beat this gorgeous historic inn. Bedrooms all have luxurious jacuzzi tubs, fireplaces, and high-end linens and decor.
• Toll Road Inn: I’ll call this a retro motor lodge. It’s tastefully designed and decorated and just down the mountain from Bromley Mountain. Oh, and it’s got a year-round hot tub for enjoying star-filled winter nights.
• The Kimpton Taconic: We don’t often recommend chain hotels on these pages, but we always recommend the Kimpton Taconic, which is beautifully decorated, within walking distance to many shops and restaurants, and it’s dog-friendly!

What to do in Bennington and Manchester in the Winter

You’ll want to spend some time wandering around historic Old Bennington, which is just west of downtown Bennington.

Check out the Bennington Monument at the top of Monument Avenue and then stroll past 18th-century homes as you make your way to the Old First Church. You can also visit Robert Frost’s grave, which is located in the cemetery behind the church.

Since you’ll be driving north to Manchester anyway, be sure to embark on a covered bridge tour of Bennington County , which is fun no matter what time of year you visit.

In Manchester, be sure to visit Hildene , the former home of Robert Todd Lincoln (son of President Lincoln). This historic home was built in 1905 as a summer estate. Guided tours are offered throughout the year.

If you can’t imagine visiting Vermont without skiing, head east to Bromley Mountain for a day on the slopes. Bromely is a wonderful family-friendly mountain with trails for all levels of experience.

For a more mellow outdoor experience, rent snowshoes at the Mountain Goat and head to Equinox Preserve for a quiet woodland walk.

If this sounds like the perfect collection of things to do in Vermont in the winter, be sure to check out the complete winter itinerary for exploring Bennington and Manchester.

Woodstock, Vermont

Woodstock is another town that fully embraces winter. While Woodstock is a popular Vermont destination year-round, winter is probably our favorite time to explore the area without the insane crowds that flock here in the summer and fall.

Woodstock was first settled in 1768, and the town has managed to preserve the historic nature of the downtown area. In fact, the entire downtown district is listed on the National Register of Historic Places. Early 19th-century homes and many Federal and Greek Revival buildings line Elm Street.

Where to Stay for your Vermont Winter Weekend in Woodstock

If you don’t mind putting a bit of a dent in your wallet, nothing compares to a weekend at the Woodstock Inn and Resort . Not only is this posh hotel located right downtown, but it also features four unique restaurants, a contemporary spa, and a Nordic Ski Center with 45 km of trails that are great for skiing, snowshoeing, and fat biking.

For a more affordable option, check into The Shire Woodstock , a riverfront motel with beautifully appointed rooms with fireplaces and cozy linens.

What to do in Woodstock, Vermont in the Winter

Did you know that Woodstock is home to Vermont’s only national park? Marsh-Billings-Rockefeller National Historical Park . Part nature preserve, part history museum, the National Park Service calls this unique park, “the only national park to tell the story of conservation history and the evolving nature of land stewardship in America.” 

Winter is a great time to explore the multi-use trails that crisscross the Marsh-Billings-Rockefeller property (free), as well as the groomed cross-country ski trails ($$) that are maintained by Woodstock Inn and Resort.

Meander around the Pogue, and head up to the Woodstock Star on the South Peak of Mount Tom (1,250 feet). This trail map shows the multi-use trail in yellow, which is free to hike or snowshoe on in the winter.

If alpine skiing is more your speed, head to Woodstock’s beloved local ski mountain, Saskadena Six , which is affordable and great for beginners. Nearby Quechee Club offers downhill skiing, groomed cross-country trails, and an ice skating rink, making it the perfect place to spend a snowy afternoon.

Finally, if you crave a little retail therapy, meander into downtown Woodstock and pop into a few of the many boutique shops, art galleries, and clothing stores.

The Vermont Antique Mall in Quechee is Vermont’s largest antique mall and the perfect spot to step out of the cold and back in time.

Please read our complete itinerary for your winter weekend in Woodstock, Vermont !

Burlington, Vermont

For a more urban winter getaway in Vermont, your only choice is the relative metropolis of Burlington.

That’s not to say that you can’t partake in dozens of outdoor activities, but those adventures can be bookended with world-class dining, cultural attractions, and shopping. This small, but vibrant city is located on the shores of Lake Champlain with incredible views of the Adirondacks across the lake in New York.

Where to Stay in Burlington this Winter

When it comes to Burlington hotels, we pretty much always choose to stay right downtown so we can get around on foot.

This allows us to take advantage of the restaurants and shopping without constantly having to get in the car. Here are our top choices for lodging in Burlington.

• Hilton Garden Inn: While I don’t usually recommend large chain hotels, the Hilton Garden Inn in Burlington is impressive in its location, price, and comfort. Even the lobby is beautiful. This Hilton is located on Main Street, just a few blocks from the Church Street Marketplace and the waterfront. It’s also got an indoor pool and fitness center.
• Hotel Vermont: Located very close to downtown and the waterfront, this is a boutique retro hotel with minimalistic furnishings and a fabulous restaurant. It’s well known for its dog-friendliness, customer service, and high price. Worth it? At least once!
• Delt a Hotels by Marriott: If you want to save some money on lodging, you’ll have to sacrifice location, I’m afraid. Delta Hotels has a lot going for it, though – it’s close to the airport, the rooms are comfy, and there’s an indoor pool and fitness center. Pets are not permitted.

The Best Things to Do in Burlington, Vermont in the Winter

True story – during my college days in Burlington, I would often walk downtown to buy coffee at Speeder & Earl’s on Church Street and walk back to my apartment. On more than one occasion, my coffee actually had a layer of ice on it by the time I had walked three blocks. Burlington in the winter is not for the faint of heart.

Fortunately, there are plenty of things to do indoors and out in Burlington to keep you warm, just don’t get your coffee to go. If you have your own Nordic skis, there are a lot of great spots to take advantage of free ski trails in Burlington.

Cross-Country Skiing and Ice Skating in Burlington

The Intervale grooms seven miles of trails for both classic and skate skiing. It’s totally free and dogs are permitted. Another option is to ski on the side of the Burlington Greenway. The middle is often plowed for walkers, but there is usually plenty of room for classic skis on the path’s edge.

If you are new to cross-country skiing, I recommend starting at Catamount Outdoor Center in Williston, where you can rent skis, take a lesson, and enjoy more than 35 km of groomed trails.

Ice skating is another great way to get outside in Burlington. I grew up ice skating at the indoor rink at Leddy Park, but the six outdoor rinks in Burlington are a great free alternative if you have your own skates.

Indoor Activities in Burlington, Vermont

When the winter winds blow across Lake Champlain and freeze the coffee in your mug, you need to find something to do indoors. We get it! Here are a few indoor activities that we’d recommend checking out while you’re in Burlington.

• Visit the Echo Center on Lake Champlain: This science and nature museum features live animals, changing exhibits, and a 3D theater. Learn all about the history, geology, and ecology of the Lake Champlain Basin.
• Take a Burlington Brewery Tour: Most of the craft breweries on the Burlington Beer Trail are within walking distance of each other, but if you don’t want to hoof it, check out the Sip of Burlington Tour , which provides a designated driver and VIP access to local breweries.
• Check out Burlington City Arts Center: Part gallery, part art education center, Burlington City Arts features rotating exhibits, classes, and open studio time.
• Go Climbing at Petra Cliffs: This indoor climbing facility in Burlington appeals to every type of climber, even folks that have never done it before. Great for kids and adults.
• Visit Get Air Trampoline Park : Visiting Burlington with kids? Get Air in Williston is one of the best ways for them to burn off energy indoors. Not only does Get Air have thousands of square feet of trampolines, but they’ve also got foam pits, slack lines, and special events.

Brattleboro, Vermont

A winter weekend in Brattleboro is the perfect escape for city dwellers. It’s just three hours from Boston and four from NYC, plus it’s one of the few towns in Vermont with an Amtrak station, so you can easily plan a car-free adventure.

The historic downtown community in Brattleboro is nestled in the foothills on the western bank of the Connecticut River. While the population of Brattleboro is just over 12,000 people, the town embraces an urban identity with eclectic restaurants, live music, theater, and shopping.

Where to Stay in Brattleboro, Vermont

Whether or not you bring a car to Brattleboro, you should stay downtown if you can. There’s only one downtown hotel, but it’s a good one!

The Latchis Hotel is housed in an 80+-year-old Art Deco building. The hotel has tried to retain the historic charm of the building while adding the modern amenities that travelers need for comfort. This is one of only two Art Deco buildings still functioning in the entire state of Vermont.

The Latchis Theatre operates right downstairs and features both Hollywood and Indie films.

If you need a bit more room to spread out, try this cute bungalow with room for five people. It’s just a few blocks from the downtown area and has off-street parking.

The Best Things to Do in Brattleboro in the Winter

If you look beneath the surface in Brattleboro, you’ll find that it has several unique winter gems that you won’t find anywhere else in Vermont.

The first is Harris Hill Ski Jump , which celebrated its 100th anniversary in 2022. Each year in February, ski jumpers gather from all over the world to compete in the annual Harris Hill Ski Jumping competition. This is a celebrated Brattleboro tradition and absolutely worth traveling to Vermont for.

If you are not visiting during Ski Jump weekend, you can still climb the stairs to the top of the jump and wander more than 10 miles of trails at Retreat Farm. Snowshoes or Microspikes might be required.

Another unique and fun experience is a visit to the all-volunteer-run Brattleboro Ski Hill, which got its start in 1937. A 1300-foot T-bar brings skiers to the top of the hill and lift tickets are only $5 per person. Unfortunately, they do not offer rentals.

Indoor Activities in Brattleboro for Winter Fun

As much as we love getting outside year-round, we’re well aware that a fun winter destination needs more than snowshoe trails and ski hills. Aside from some great independent shops, including several bookstores, record stores, and an awesome outfitter, Brattleboro also has some incredibly unique cultural attractions, including:

• New England Center or Circus Arts: Offering special events and workshops throughout the year, if you’ve ever wanted to learn to juggle, swing on a trapeze, or try wire walking, you may want to check this out. Even if you don’t fancy yourself a circus performer, there are spectator events throughout the year.
• Brattleboro Museum and Art Center: BMAC is a non-collecting contemporary art museum focused on the work of living artists. Exhibits are housed in six galleries and are rotated every three to four months. The galleries are open Wednesday-Sunday, 10-4.
• The Stone Church: If you are fortunate enough to be in Brattleboro when there’s a performance at the Stone Church, be sure to buy tickets. This unique performance space has amazing acoustics, and the musical talent is always impressive.

Need more ideas? Check out our complete itinerary for a winter weekend in Brattleboro, Vermont .

St. Johnsbury and the Northeast Kingdom

If you’ve been looking for snow in all the wrong places, it’s time to head a little farther north into Vermont’s Northeast Kingdom.

St. Johnsbury will be your home base for this Vermont winter getaway. Home to 7,500 residents, St. Johnsbury is the largest town in the Northeast Kingdom of Vermont, and the perfect place to experience winter in Vermont. Like many of the Vermont towns in our list, St. Johnsbury has some unique offerings that you won’t find anywhere else.

Where to Stay in St. Johnsbury, Vermont

If you want to stay right in town, Cherry House Bed & Breakfast on Frost Avenue comes highly recommended by everyone who has ever had the pleasure of staying there. This 1901 Victorian Dutch Revival features beautifully decorated rooms, a full breakfast, and delightful hosts. In addition to standard guest rooms, there are also a few cottages available onsite. Pets are permitted for a small fee.

Another unique option is a stay at this spectacular treehouse listed on Airbnb. It’s tucked away in the woods on top of a mountain and is just .5 miles from the famous Dog Mountain. Pets are permitted too, of course.

Read Next: 6 Amazing Treehouse Rentals in Vermont

The Best Things to Do in the Northeast Kingdom in the Winter

Vermont’s Northeast Kingdom is home to two premier ski resorts. If you’re staying in St. J, the closest ski area is Burke Mountain , just 16 miles north.

The nearby Kingdom Trails feature a beautiful network of trails for winter use, including 31 miles of fat biking singletrack, 7.3 miles of groomed cross-country ski trails, and 38 miles of snowshoeing trails. You must purchase a day pass to use Kingdom Trails and dogs are not permitted.

If you don’t have equipment of your own, or just don’t want to bring it all the way to Vermont, you can rent Nordic skis, fat bikes, or snowshoes at the Village Sports Shop in Lyndonville.

Another great option for getting outside? Ice skating!

St. Johnsbury Recreation Department operates two free outdoor skating rinks in the winter: one at the Four Seasons Park on Main Street and the other at the Buck Park on Portland Street: heating huts and lights at each.

You can’t visit the Northeast Kingdom without paying a visit to Dog Mountain in St. Johnsbury.

Set on top of a mountain with more than 150 acres to explore, Dog Mountain is a place for dogs and their owners to adventure together off-leash. The trails are great for snowshoeing in the winter but don’t forget to stop into the dog chapel to pay tribute to all the pups you have loved and lost.

Indoor Activities in Vermont’s Northeast Kingdom

Planning ahead for foul weather, let’s check out some of the unique indoor offerings in this part of Vermont.

• Fairbanks Museum and Planetarium, St. Johnsbury: A natural history museum and planetarium with more than 30,000 objects, special event offerings, and the weird and wacky collection of “Bug Art,” created with thousands of beetles, moths, and butterflies, meticulously positioned on wood and framed for your viewing pleasure.
• Catamount Arts, St. Johnsbury: The only full-service arts center in northeastern Vermont, Catamount Arts is the perfect place to catch a film, a show, or an exhibit.
• Jay Peak Pump House and Indoor Waterpark, Jay: Jay Peak Resort is another of Vermont’s most adventurous ski mountains, but it also houses Vermont’s only indoor water park, this is the perfect place to come in out of the cold. Jay Peak is located on the Canadian border and is about an hour’s drive from St. Johnsbury.

Stowe and Waterbury

When it comes to amazing winter destinations in Vermont, most people think of Stowe, which is in the very heart of the northern Green Mountains, and the epicenter for downhill skiing and other outdoor pursuits.

For a quintessential Vermont winter getaway, Stowe is hard to beat, but of course, you’ll be sharing your vacation with others who feel the same way, so be sure to book your reservations well in advance.

Where to Stay in Stowe in the Winter

If you’ve never stayed in the mountains of Austria and want a similar experience, transport yourself to the Trapp Family Lodge in Stowe . Located on 2,500 acres in the Green Mountains, you could spend your entire Vermont winter getaway on the property and be perfectly content.

Where else can you explore miles of cross-country ski trails in the morning, embark on a mountainside horse-drawn sleigh ride in the afternoon, and sip locally brewed beers as the sun sets over the mountains?

The Trapp Family Lodge is a pet-friendly establishment with 96 beautifully appointed rooms and suites.

The Best Things to Do in Stowe in the Winter

Stowe Mountain Resort is one of Vermont’s most iconic ski resorts, with 116 trails on the side of Vermont’s highest peak. If you’ve come to Vermont to ski, then a trip to Stowe Mountain Resort is one of the best things to do in Vermont in winter.

The mountain receives more than 300 inches of snow annually, and the 40 miles of trails are spread over 485 acres. The Cross-Country Center adds an additional 45 km of groomed Nordic trails and another 30 km of backcountry trails. Rentals are available for both downhill and XC skis.

While enjoying Stowe Mountain Resort, be sure to visit the outdoor ice skating rink at Spruce Peak Village. It’s free to use and open to the public.

For guided adventures to all the outdoors has to offer in the area, connect with Umiak Outdoor Outfitters , which offers dog sledding tours, snowshoeing, and ski tours throughout the winter.

Indoor Activities in Stowe and Waterbury

Here are a few more things to do in Stowe and nearby Waterbury when you need to come in from the cold.

• Ben & Jerry’s Factory Tour, Waterbury: As of early 2022, the factory tours are on hold at Ben & Jerry’s, but the scoop shop is open from 11 am to 6 pm.
• Spruce Peak Performing Arts Center, Stowe: Spruce Peak Arts is a year-round venue that offers world-renowned entertainment, including live music, art shows, dance, comedy, film, lectures, and emerging artists and performers from around the region, the United States, and the world. Be sure to check their calendar before booking your trip.
• Vermont Ski and Snowboard Museum, Stowe: Located right in downtown Stowe, this small museum has a mission to collect, preserve and celebrate Vermont’s skiing history.
• Take a Brewery Tour, Stowe: The Stowe area is another mecca for craft brewing. Let 4 Points Vermont take you around on a tour and tasting. They’ll even pick you up at your hotel!
• Cold Hollow Cider, Waterbury: Learn how cider is made, snack on cider donuts, visit the gift shop, and do a tasting in the hard cider room!

Visiting Vermont in winter is an amazing experience! Have you ever spent a winter weekend in Vermont? What are your favorite spots for indoor and outdoor fun?

More Things to Do in Vermont

Grab our five-page printable bucket list that includes all the best things to do in Vermont !

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Tara Schatz is a freelance writer and the founder and editor-in-chief of Vermont Explored and Back Road Ramblers , an American road trip blog. She is also the co-author of the 3rd edition of AMC’s Best Day Hikes in Vermont, released in May 2023, and the author of 100+ Wonderful Ways to Experience Vermont.

8 Amazing Things To Do In Vermont In Winter

With fabulous skiing, sleigh rides, and lively festivals, Vermont really is a winter wonderland! It’s time for a rundown of the best things to do in Vermont in winter.  

Visiting Vermont in winter is a real treat – expect snow-capped mountains, glittering frozen lakes, and picture-perfect white meadows. Once winter hits, the mountains and forests of Vermont are transformed into a festive wonderland.

Of course, many visitors flock here to take advantage of the powder on the ski slopes, but there are plenty of other Vermont winter activities on offer too. Explore the backcountry on horseback or snowshoes, grab your ice skates and head for the frozen lakes, try your hand at ice fishing, or simply enjoy cosy coffees and cocktails in one of the region’s friendly towns. You’ll find delicious local produce, craft ales, festive winter events and a warm welcome wherever you go.

If you’re thinking of heading to the United States for a winter break this year, why not consider Vermont? To give you a little inspiration for your travels, this is my pick of the best things to do in Vermont in winter.

What’s the weather like in Vermont in winter?

In winter, temperatures in Vermont plummet and often drop as low as -16 degrees Celsius (3 degrees Fahrenheit). Be prepared to wrap up warm!

These cold temperatures are usually accompanied by plenty of snow, with frequent snowstorms in December and January, which can leave very deep snow packs. My advice? Come prepared for very cold weather, but remember the snow makes the views even more spectacular.

Amazing Things to Do In Vermont In Winter

Go horse riding in vermont.

You might think that horse riding is an activity best enjoyed in summer, but in Vermont you can also head out on horseback in the depths of winter,. In fact, horse riding is one of the most magical Vermont winter activities, and is a great way to explore some of the most scenic snow covered trails in the state.

Expect snowy peaks, gurgling streams, and forests heavy with thick boughs of snow – a truly picturesque sight. Whether you’re an experienced jockey or a complete beginner, Vermont is a great place to try your hand at horse riding.

Hit The Ski Slopes In Vermont

Of all the things to do in Vermont in winter, the most popular activities are downhill and cross-country skiing. With pristine white powder and picturesque scenery, Vermont is a great destination for skiers and snowboarders, and offers slopes for all levels of ability.

The most popular resorts are in Stowe and Sugarbush, but you could also check out some of the quieter resorts that are favoured by locals, such as Okemo Mountain and Jay Peak. 

Try Out Fat Biking

Fat biking is the USA’s latest winter trend – consider it the two-wheeled equivalent of snowshoeing! This fun sport essentially consists of mountain biking on a bike with thick, wide tyres, which don’t sink into the snow.

It’s a great way to experience the snow-blanketed landscapes across wintry Vermont, and provides an awesome workout too. If you’re tired of the slopes, and looking for something a little different, fat biking is one of the most fun things to do in Vermont in winter.

Take A Winter Hike

With such perfect frosty scenery, another top Vermont winter activity is to head out on to a trail for a classic winter hike. There are lots of accessible trails in Vermont – most are better with snowshoes or micro spikes, but some are fine in walking boots if the snowfall isn’t too thick.

With over 55 state parks to pick from, you’ll be spoilt for choice when it comes to trails! I’d highly recommend taking a look at the ascent of Spruce Mountain if you’re looking for a challenge, or the Clarendon Loop, where you can see the amazing ice sculptures in Clarendon Gorge. 

Take A Sleigh Ride

If you’re looking for something more laid back, why not put your feet up and explore the state from the back of a horse drawn sleigh? This is a wonderful way to see the scenery, as well as being one of the most romantic things to do in Vermont in winter.

Many local farms offer sleigh rides in the winter, with customisable routes that take you to the best viewpoints. This is one of the most popular Vermont winter activities for couples and families, and should not be missed!

Go Ice Skating

One of the best things about Vermont’s sub-zero winter temperatures is that many of the lakes and ponds across the region freeze solid. Once this happens, it’s time to get your skates out and head out onto the ice!

One of the most popular destinations for ice skating in Vermont is on Lake Morey, a picturesque body of water surrounded by towering mountains. Start early and you may even catch a glimpse of a bald eagle or see the frozen lake shrouded in the morning mist – definitely one of the most magical things to do in Vermont in winter! 

Hit The Shops In Vermont

Although many of the best things to do in Vermont in winter involve getting out into the great outdoors, Vermont’s towns also offer a lot. In addition to plenty of great bars and restaurants, towns such as Manchester, Stowe and Burlington have excellent shopping. Whether you’re looking for souvenirs, gifts, or simply want an excuse to treat yourself, you’ll find some great items on offer.

Don’t miss the iconic Church Street Marketplace in Burlington with its open-air mall. With fabulous bookshops, plenty of artisan gift shops and delicatessens, antique furniture stores, and trendy fashion outlets, you might end up going home with more than you bargained for!

Visit Stowe Winter Carnival

Stowe Winter Carnival , which usually takes place in January, is a wonderful local celebration of the winter season. Expect an impressive ice carving competition, live music, hot food and drinks, plus a few sporting activities too.

You could join a guided snowshoeing trip, or even participate in a snow golf tournament! This festival is a much loved winter tradition, and a great way to experience the festive side of winter in Vermont.

Where To Stay In Vermont In Winter

Trapp family lodge.

Attention all Sound of Music fans! The beautiful Trapp Family Lodge is the original home of the Von Trapp family who settled here in the 1950 following their flight from Austria.

Even if you’re not a fan of the musical, this beautiful lodge is a great option if you’re visiting the Stowe area, with an old-world charm, stunning mountain views and exceptional service. This institution offers a little taste of Austria in Vermont.

Four Columns Inn

If you’re looking for a little luxury in the Green Mountains in the south of Vermont, look no further than the Four Columns Inn. This rustic inn once hosted Mick Jagger (back in the 1970s) and is in a really pretty location.

Surrounded by woodlands and a picturesque river, the hotel also offers an excellent restaurant specialising in local produce. Plus, a bonus for those cold days, there’s a luxurious spa – an idea place to curl up on a cold winter evening in Vermont.

The Lodge at Spruce Peak

This luxury lodge is the ideal year-round destination in Vermont, nestled in the beautiful Green Mountains. You’ll be close to the mountains and all the best ski resorts, but there are plenty of facilities to keep you occupied in the lodge itself.

With a luxury spa, heated outdoor pool, and a relaxation area with open fires, you’ll leave feeling pampered and totally relaxed. There’s also an exclusive speakeasy, with a cocktail menu to die for!

I hope this guide has given you a little inspiration for things to do in Vermont in winter – it really is a magical winter wonderland! Oh and let me know in the comments if you have other top tips for this stunning part of New England.

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Chloe Gunning

With a passion for food, fun and adventure, Chloe is the content creator behind one of the UK's top travel blogs Wanderlust Chloe. From volcano boarding in Nicaragua, to sailing around Sicily and eating her way around Japan, her travels have taken her to some of the coolest spots on the planet. Named Travel Influencer of the Year in 2022, Chloe regularly works with a number of tourism boards, producing inspirational travel content across multiple platforms. Find out more about Chloe here.

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Vermont Tourism in the Winter: Things to Do and See

Discover the charm of Vermont Tourism in the Winter with activities from skiing to scenic tours

Welcome to Vermont , a winter wonderland that offers a multitude of activities and attractions for tourists like you. Whether you're a skiing enthusiast , a nature lover, or someone seeking a cozy winter getaway, Vermont has something special in store for everyone. There really are plenty of things to do in Vermont during the winter months. Prepare to explore breathtaking landscapes, experience thrilling adventures, indulge in culinary delights, and immerse yourself in the charm of picturesque villages. Although many of the best things in Vermont include ski areas , ice skating, Vermont country stores and shopping on Church Street marketplace in Burlington , you'll want to stay up to date to this top winter destination.

The best things and best places to stay await you, making it one of the best winter destinations ever!

Key Takeaways:

• Experience thrilling winter adventures such as skiing, snowboarding , snowshoeing, and snowmobiling .
• Embrace the beauty of winter landscapes in Vermont, with snow-covered mountains and frozen lakes.
• Discover world-class ski resorts, including Okemo Mountain Resort , Stowe Mountain Resort , and Killington .
• Attend exciting winter festivals and events, such as the Stowe Winter Carnival and Burlington Winter Festival .
• Indulge in Vermont's farm-to-table culinary scene, with delicious dishes featuring maple syrup and local cheeses.
• A winter vacation in Vermont is simply one of the best things you can imagine
• A trip to Trapp Family Lodge in Stowe Vermont in December (or any time of the year) is one of the best places to visit.

Experience a Thrilling Winter Adventure

When it comes to winter adventures, Vermont offers an array of thrilling outdoor activities and fun things that will get your adrenaline pumping. From Vermont winter sports such as skiing and snowboarding to winter adventures in Vermont like snowshoeing, snowmobiling , and ice fishing, there's something for everyone to enjoy in the snow-covered mountains and scenic landscapes. Trails in Vermont are second to none. Prepare for the best ski adventure ever!

If you're a fan of downhill action, hit the slopes and experience the thrill of skiing or snowboarding on some of the best slopes in the country. Vermont boasts numerous ski resorts that cater to both beginners and experienced skiers, with well-groomed trails and breathtaking mountain views.

• Zoom down the slopes at Okemo Mountain Resort , known for its family-friendly atmosphere and diverse terrain.
• Discover the challenging trails and beautiful vistas of Stowe Mountain Resort, a favorite destination for winter sports enthusiasts.
• For a unique winter adventure, head to Jay Peak and experience the legendary “Jay Cloud” – the frequent dump of light, dry powder that the resort is known for.

If you prefer a different kind of winter adventure, Vermont offers plenty of options. Strap on some snowshoes and explore the picturesque trails, or hop on a snowmobile and glide through snowy landscapes at high speed. You can even try your hand at the best Vermont winter activities like ice fishing, where you can catch a variety of fish through a hole in the frozen lake.

After a Day of Adventure

After an exhilarating day of outdoor activities, it's time to unwind and relax. Vermont has a vibrant arts and culture scene, offering music, theater, and dance performances that will captivate you. Attend a live concert or immerse yourself in a local theater production to enhance your winter experience.

If rejuvenation is what you seek, indulge yourself at one of the award-winning spas in Vermont. Treat yourself to a massage, soak in a hot tub, or embrace a healing therapy session to soothe your tired muscles and warm up from the inside out.

So, whether you're seeking an adrenaline rush on the slopes or looking to immerse yourself in the cultural and relaxation offerings, Vermont has it all. Get ready for a winter adventure like no other.

Embrace Winter in Vermont

Vermont's winter landscapes are a sight to behold. With snow-covered mountains, frozen lakes, and charming villages, this picturesque destination offers a perfect winter getaway. Whether you're seeking adventure or a cozy retreat, Vermont has something for everyone.

Stay in Cozy Cabins, Inns or Beautiful Boutique Hotels in Vermont

Immerse yourself in the winter wonderland of Vermont by staying in cozy cabins or charming inns. These accommodations provide a warm and inviting atmosphere, allowing you to relax and enjoy the beauty of the surroundings. Curl up by the fireplace with a cup of hot cocoa and bask in the tranquil ambiance. There is a large variety of places in Vermont to stay from luxury resorts to cozy, intimate cabins in Vermont.

Enjoy Winter Activities

• Hit the slopes: Vermont is renowned for its excellent skiing and snowboarding opportunities. Strap on your gear and experience the thrill of gliding down the mountain slopes. Vermont has some of the best ski resorts in the USA.
• Go snowshoeing: Explore the serene landscapes on a snowshoeing adventure. Traverse through snow-covered trails and witness the untouched beauty of nature. A trip to Vermont and putting on snowshoes offers things to explore that are a unique experience for all ages.
• Try ice fishing: Vermont's frozen lakes provide the perfect setting for ice fishing. Test your angling skills and enjoy the tranquility of the frozen waters. Ice skating in Vermont on frozen lakes and watching anglers is a unique way to find out the best things to do in winter.

Participate in Holiday Celebrations and Events

Vermont truly comes alive during the winter holidays. Take part in festive celebrations and events that showcase the rich culture and holiday spirit of the region. From picturesque Christmas markets to enchanting winter festivals, there's no shortage of joyful experiences to embrace.

In Vermont, winter is a time to immerse yourself in the beauty of nature, indulge in winter activities, and create cherished memories. Plan your winter getaway to Vermont and discover the magic of this winter wonderland.

Ski Resorts in Vermont

Vermont is renowned for its world-class ski resorts, making it a haven for winter sports enthusiasts. Whether you're a seasoned skier or a beginner eager to hit the slopes, Vermont has a resort that caters to your skill level and preferences.

• Okemo Mountain Resort: Located in Ludlow, Okemo Mountain Resort offers a range of ski slopes suitable for all abilities. From gentle beginner trails to challenging expert runs, there's something for everyone. The resort also features excellent terrain parks for snowboarders and freestyle skiers.
• Stowe Mountain Resort: Nestled in the picturesque town of Stowe, Stowe Mountain Resort is a must-visit destination for skiing in Vermont . Its diverse terrain, including iconic trails like “Spruce Peak” and “Mount Mansfield,” attracts skiers of all levels. The resort's state-of-the-art facilities and breathtaking mountain views add to the experience.
• Jay Peak: Located in Northern Vermont, Jay Peak is known for its abundant snowfall and challenging slopes. With a focus on advanced and expert skiers, Jay Peak offers thrilling terrain and impressive glades. The resort also boasts a renowned water park and luxurious accommodations for après-ski relaxation.
• Stratton Mountain: Situated in the Green Mountains of southern Vermont, Stratton Mountain is a popular choice for ski holidays. Its varied terrain, from gentle slopes to steep trails, caters to skiers of all levels. The resort also offers a vibrant village with shops, restaurants, and lively après-ski entertainment.
• Killington: Known as the “Beast of the East,” Killington is one of Vermont's largest ski resorts. With diverse terrain, including wide-open cruisers and challenging double black diamond trails, Killington provides an exhilarating experience for advanced skiers. The resort also boasts a vibrant nightlife scene and a range of accommodation options.
• Sugarbush: Nestled in the Mad River Valley, Sugarbush is a favorite among skiing enthusiasts. The resort features two majestic mountains, Lincoln Peak and Mt. Ellen, offering a variety of trails for skiers of all abilities. Sugarbush is also known for its friendly atmosphere, beautiful scenery, and excellent ski instruction programs.

Each ski resort in Vermont offers unique features and attractions, ensuring an unforgettable ski holiday experience. Whether you're seeking thrilling slopes or a family-friendly atmosphere, Vermont's ski resorts have you covered. Plan your winter getaway and indulge in the exhilaration of skiing in the heart of nature's winter wonderland.

Winter Festivals and Events

Vermont comes alive with excitement during the winter season, hosting a variety of vibrant festivals and events. These celebrations showcase the unique charm and festive spirit of the state. Whether you're a local resident or a visitor, the winter festivals in Vermont offer something for everyone.

Here are some of the popular winter festivals and events that you won't want to miss:

1. Stowe Winter Carnival

The Stowe Winter Carnival is a beloved event that has been entertaining guests for over 40 years. This week-long celebration features a plethora of activities, including ice carving competitions, snow volleyball tournaments, sleigh rides, and fireworks. With live music performances and delicious local food, the carnival creates a lively atmosphere that captures the spirit of winter.

2. Burlington Winter Festival

The Burlington Winter Festival is a delightful event that takes place in the heart of Vermont's largest city. This festival showcases incredible ice sculptures, captivating performances, and exciting winter sports competitions. Visitors can enjoy sledding, ice skating, and even try their hand at broomball. The festival also offers delicious food options and live music to keep the festivities going.

3. Montpelier Winter Fest

Montpelier, the capital of Vermont, hosts its own unique winter festival. Montpelier Winter Fest is a fun-filled celebration that features festive parades, snowshoe races, snow carving contests, and family-friendly activities. Visitors can explore the charming downtown area, shop for local crafts, and warm up with a cup of hot cocoa from the local cafes.

These winter festivals provide a wonderful opportunity to join in the community spirit, admire incredible ice sculptures, indulge in tasty treats, and create lasting memories with family and friends.

So, embrace the winter wonderland of Vermont and immerse yourself in the festive atmosphere of these captivating events. Don't miss out on the excitement and joy that the winter festivals and events in Vermont have to offer.

Enjoy the Culinary Delights of Vermont

Vermont's winter season not only offers breathtaking landscapes but also a wealth of culinary delights to satisfy your appetite and warm your soul. Known for its farm-to-table philosophy, the state provides a delightful array of dishes that highlight the local flavors and ingredients. Vermont is a great place explore diverse cuisines from around the world.

Traditional Vermont Dishes

During your winter visit, indulge in some of Vermont's iconic dishes. Start your day with a stack of fluffy pancakes drizzled with local maple syrup, a true Vermont staple. For cheese lovers, the state produces an impressive variety of artisanal cheeses, each with its distinct aroma and flavor. Pair your cheese with a glass of locally produced wine or cider, completing your sensory experience.

Nothing beats the taste of a warm apple pie on a chilly winter day. Vermont is celebrated for its apple orchards, with apples harvested at their peak ripeness. The result: a piping hot slice of heaven that showcases the state's fruitful bounty.

When it comes to hearty and comforting dishes, look no further than Vermont's stews and chowders. Prepared with locally sourced meats and vegetables, these dishes embody the essence of winter warmth. From savory beef stews to creamy New England clam chowder, there's something to satisfy every palate.

Fine Dining and Craft Breweries

If you're looking for a refined dining experience, Vermont's diverse culinary scene won't disappoint. The state boasts a plethora of fine dining restaurants that excel in both taste and presentation. Indulge in innovative dishes prepared with local produce and paired with expertly crafted cocktails or locally brewed beers .

For beer enthusiasts, Vermont is a haven for craft breweries. From hop-forward IPAs to rich, malty stouts, the state offers a wide selection of handcrafted beers for you to savor. Take a brewery tour to learn about the brewing process and taste the labor of love that goes into each batch. Breweries in Vermont in winter involve the perfect Vermont itinerary for sipping the suds!

Farmers' Markets and Culinary Events

Immerse yourself in Vermont's culinary culture by visiting the farmers' markets that dot the state. These vibrant markets showcase the best of Vermont's produce, meats, cheeses, and artisanal products. Engage with the local vendors, sample their products, and bring home a taste of Vermont.

Throughout the winter season, Vermont hosts a variety of culinary events and festivals that celebrate the state's flavorful offerings. From maple syrup festivals to food and wine tastings, these events provide an opportunity to indulge in the diverse gastronomic landscape of Vermont. Be sure to check the event calendar and plan your visit accordingly.

When visiting Vermont in the winter, prepare to awaken your taste buds and embark on a culinary journey like no other. From traditional dishes to fine dining experiences and local breweries, Vermont's winter cuisine will leave you craving for more.

Explore Scenic Villages and Towns

Vermont is home to many picturesque villages and towns that become even more charming in the winter. Visitors can explore towns such as Woodstock , Manchester , Stowe , and Burlington , and enjoy their historic architecture, quaint shops, and seasonal decorations. These Vermont winter villages and towns offer a unique blend of natural beauty and cultural richness. Spend a winter season in Vermont exploring things to do in Burlington, checking off a bucket list of the best ski areas and making a list of best, favorite places to remember for a lifetime.

• Alexander, William M. (Author)
• English (Publication Language)
• 160 Pages – 06/27/2008 (Publication Date) – The History Press (Publisher)

Woodstock is a quintessential New England village known for its well-preserved historic buildings and charming village green. Take a leisurely walk along the main street and admire the classic New England architecture, browse the boutique shops, and stop by the local art galleries. Things to do in Woodstock include shopping, art galleries and more.

Manchester , located in southern Vermont, offers a mix of outdoor activities and upscale shopping. Explore the designer outlets, visit the Northshire Bookstore, and indulge in a delicious meal at one of the renowned restaurants. If you love shopping, this might be your favorite destination in Vermont. Manchester is also home to the Hildene estate, the former home of Abraham Lincoln's son, which offers guided tours and stunning winter views of the surrounding landscape. 

Nestled in the Green Mountains, Stowe is a popular destination for outdoor enthusiasts. It is one of the top winter destinations. Visitors can hit the slopes at Stowe Mountain Resort, known for its challenging ski trails and breathtaking views. After a day of skiing, explore the town's charming streets lined with boutique shops, art galleries, and cozy cafes. Tips for visiting Vermont in winter include seeking out resources such as the Stowe Visitor Center. Of all the places to visit in Vermont, Stowe would probably top the list.

Burlington, Vermont's largest city, offers a vibrant mix of culture, history, and stunning Lake Champlain views. Explore the bustling Church Street Marketplace, where you can find a variety of shops, restaurants, and lively street performers. Visit the ECHO Leahy Center for Lake Champlain to learn about the region's ecology and history or take a scenic walk along the waterfront.

Visiting these scenic towns in Vermont during the winter is like stepping into a postcard. Each town has its unique atmosphere and attractions, ensuring that visitors will have a memorable experience in the heart of Vermont's winter wonderland. Evenings in the winter are magical and Vermont is the perfect choice for rest and relaxation.

Outdoor Winter Activities

Vermont is a winter wonderland. Aside from skiing and snowboarding, the state of Vermont offers a wide range of outdoor winter activities that allow you to immerse yourself in the beauty of the season. Whether you're seeking thrilling adventures or serene experiences, Vermont has something for everyone. Temperatures in Vermont can vary widely and the right packing for your winter vacation is essential.

1. Snowshoeing

Explore the winter wonderland of Vermont by strapping on a pair of snowshoes. Meander through snow-covered forests, soak in breathtaking mountain views, and discover hidden trails that can only be accessed by foot. Vermont is one of the best places to enjoy tranquility and peace of mind as you trek along on a solo journey.

2. Ice Climbing

If you're an adrenaline junkie, try your hand at ice climbing in Vermont. With frozen waterfalls and challenging ice formations, this thrilling activity will test your strength, agility, and determination.

• Used Book in Good Condition
• D'Agostino, Thomas (Author)
• 160 Pages – 05/28/2011 (Publication Date) – Schiffer Publishing (Publisher)

3. Ice Skating

Enjoy the quintessential winter activity of ice skating on Vermont's frozen lakes and rinks. Glide gracefully or show off your skills while surrounded by picturesque winter landscapes.

4. Snowmobiling

Zoom across snow-covered terrains and explore Vermont's vast wilderness on a snowmobile. Follow groomed trails or venture off the beaten path as you embark on an exhilarating winter adventure.

5. Cross-Country Skiing

Experience the tranquility of cross-country skiing as you glide through Vermont's groomed trails. Enjoy the peacefulness of the winter landscape while getting a great workout.

So, whether you're seeking the thrill of ice climbing or the serenity of snowshoeing, Vermont offers a variety of outdoor winter activities that cater to all interests and skill levels. Brace yourself for unforgettable adventures and create lasting memories amidst Vermont's picturesque winter scenery.

Indoor Winter Activities

When the winter chill sets in, Vermont offers a plethora of indoor activities to keep you entertained and warm. From cultural experiences to pampering spa retreats, there is something for everyone to enjoy. Why not visit Vermont this year and treat yourself? With many ski areas in Vermont to enjoy along with many other activities, it would be difficult to narrow down a list of the 15 best things to do or see on your bucket list!

Museums, Art Galleries, and Historical Sites

Immerse yourself in Vermont's rich history and vibrant arts scene by visiting museums, art galleries, and historical sites. Explore the Shelburne Museum , which houses an extensive collection of American art and artifacts, or visit the iconic Bennington Battle Monument, commemorating the Revolutionary War. Admire contemporary artwork at the stunning Brattleboro Museum and Art Center or delve into Vermont's industrial past at the American Precision Museum.

Live Performances and Concerts

Experience the magic of live performances and concerts in Vermont's cozy indoor venues. Catch a show at the Flynn Center for the Performing Arts in Burlington, showcasing a diverse range of performances including theater, dance, and music. Enjoy world-class musicians and orchestras at the Hopkins Center for the Arts in Hanover, or indulge in a night of laughter at one of Vermont's comedy clubs.

Spa Retreats and Wellness Centers

Relax and rejuvenate at one of Vermont's luxurious spas and wellness centers. Treat yourself to a massage, facial, or body treatment using natural and organic products. Take a dip in a heated pool or unwind in a sauna or hot tub. Vermont's spas offer a tranquil escape from the winter cold, providing a serene environment for total relaxation and self-care.

Shopping, Wine Tastings, and Cooking Classes

Indulge in a shopping spree at Vermont's charming boutiques, antique shops, and artisanal markets. Discover unique crafts, clothing, and locally made products. For wine enthusiasts, Vermont's wineries offer delightful tastings of their award-winning wines, showcasing the region's exceptional terroir. Expand your culinary skills by joining a cooking class and learning how to prepare delectable dishes using Vermont's fresh and seasonal ingredients.

Whether you're seeking cultural enrichment, relaxation, or a culinary adventure, Vermont's indoor winter activities provide a wide range of options to keep you entertained during your winter getaway.

Winter Getaways and Accommodations

When planning your Vermont winter getaway, you'll have a host of options for lodging and accommodations. Vermont offers a diverse range of choices to suit different preferences and budgets. Whether you're seeking a cozy cabin, a charming bed and breakfast, a luxurious resort, or a ski-in/ski-out lodge, you'll find the perfect place to stay in the midst of Vermont's winter wonderland.

Cozy Cabins: Immerse yourself in the beauty of Vermont's winter landscapes by staying in a cozy cabin. These rustic retreats provide an intimate ambiance and a sense of seclusion, allowing you to fully unwind and enjoy the peaceful surroundings. Snuggle up by the fireplace, soak in a private hot tub, or simply admire the breathtaking views from your cabin's windows.

Charming Bed and Breakfasts: Experience the warm hospitality of Vermont by staying in a charming bed and breakfast. These quaint establishments offer comfortable and individually styled rooms, hearty homemade breakfasts, and personalized service. Start your days with a delicious meal before venturing out to explore the winter wonders of Vermont.

Luxury Resorts: Indulge in a luxurious winter getaway at one of Vermont's renowned resorts. These upscale accommodations offer a range of amenities and services to ensure a memorable stay. Enjoy gourmet dining, rejuvenating spa treatments, and access to a variety of recreational activities, all while surrounded by the beauty of Vermont's winter landscapes.

Ski-In/Ski-Out Lodges: For avid skiers and snowboarders, staying at a ski-in/ski-out lodge is the ultimate winter getaway. These lodges provide direct access to the slopes, allowing you to hit the powder right from your doorstep. After an exhilarating day on the mountains, relax in a cozy lounge area, unwind in a hot tub, or indulge in après-ski activities.

Many of these accommodations offer stunning mountain views that will take your breath away. Wake up to a winter wonderland right outside your window, and embrace the tranquility and beauty of Vermont's snowy landscapes.

Choose the perfect winter lodging option that suits your desires, and create unforgettable memories during your Vermont winter getaway.

Experience the best of Vermont's winter wonderland with its breathtaking landscapes, world-class ski resorts, and an array of activities and attractions. Whether you're a ski enthusiast, a nature lover, or someone seeking a cozy winter getaway, Vermont has something for everyone.

In Vermont, you can enjoy thrilling winter sports like skiing, snowboarding, and snowshoeing, or explore scenic villages and towns such as Woodstock and Burlington, with their historic architecture and charming shops. Immerse yourself in the vibrant atmosphere of winter festivals and events, like the Stowe Winter Carnival and the Burlington Winter Festival.

Indulge your taste buds with Vermont's farm-to-table culinary delights, including local cheeses, maple syrup, and hearty stews. And after a day of adventure, relax in cozy accommodations such as cabins, bed and breakfasts, or luxury resorts, complete with amenities like hot tubs and fireplaces.

Make your winter travel dreams come true in Vermont. Plan your trip now and create unforgettable memories in this winter paradise. Discover the beauty and excitement of Vermont in winter – a destination that offers something truly special for every traveler.

What are some popular winter activities in Vermont?

Vermont offers a wide range of winter activities including skiing, snowboarding, snowshoeing, snowmobiling, ice fishing, and winter hiking.

What are the popular ski resorts in Vermont?

Some popular ski resorts in Vermont include Okemo Mountain Resort, Stowe Mountain Resort, Jay Peak, Stratton Mountain, Killington, and Sugarbush.

Are there any winter festivals in Vermont?

Yes, Vermont hosts a variety of winter festivals and events throughout the season, such as the Stowe Winter Carnival, Burlington Winter Festival, and Montpelier Winter Fest.

What is the culinary scene like in Vermont during winter?

Vermont is known for its farm-to-table culinary scene, offering traditional dishes such as maple syrup, local cheeses, apple pies, and hearty stews.

What are some scenic villages and towns to explore in Vermont during winter?

Visitors can explore towns such as Woodstock, Manchester, Stowe, and Burlington, and enjoy their historic architecture, quaint shops, and seasonal decorations.

What are some outdoor winter activities available in Vermont?

In addition to skiing and snowboarding, visitors can go snowshoeing, ice climbing, ice skating, snowmobiling, and cross-country skiing in the winter landscapes of Vermont.

Are there any indoor activities to do in Vermont during winter?

Yes, visitors can visit museums, art galleries, and historical sites, attend live performances and concerts, or relax at a spa during their winter stay in Vermont.

What types of accommodations are available for winter getaways in Vermont?

Travelers can choose from cozy cabins, charming bed and breakfasts, luxury resorts, or ski-in/ski-out lodges for their winter getaway in Vermont.

Why is Vermont a great destination for winter travel?

Vermont offers stunning winter landscapes, world-class ski resorts, and a wide range of activities and attractions, making it a perfect destination for winter travel.

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Best Tips for Planning Your Vermont Snowmobiling Adventure

Cascading Waterfalls and Mountain Vistas in the Green Mountains

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Vermont in Winter like a local: 9 Best Things to Do in Vermont in Winter

Vermont in winter is a magical place. Everything is covered in sparkling snow, icicles hang from roofs, and locals are outside enjoying jack frost’s hard work.

Whether you live in Vermont or you’re a visitor I encourage you to check out some of these fun things to do in Vermont in winter to help you explore this beautiful state.

Vermont in Winter: Top 9 Things to Do in Vermont in Winter

Table of Contents

Hike to a Fire Tower

At one time there were 38 fire towers in Vermont. Many of them fell into disrepair and are no longer standing. At the time of publishing, there were 16 fire towers still standing all of which are inactive. They make an amazing hike no matter the time of year but are especially beautiful in the winter.

One of my personal favorites is at the top of Okemo Mountain in Mount Holly. The Healdville Trail at the end of Station Road in Mount Holly will get you to the summit. It is a 3 mile hike in each direction totaling 6 miles. Make sure to dress in layers and wear microspikes for your safety. Bring plenty of water and snacks just in case, and don’t forget to have fun!

Vermont in Winter: Ice Skate on Lake Morey

Lake Morey is located in Fairlee Vermont close to the New Hampshire border and covers approximately 540 acres. In short, this lake is pretty big! What draws visitors and locals alike to this lake is the 4 mile long skating trail maintained by the Lake Morey Resort .

Resort guests get free skate rentals with their stay and some nights there are even special moonlight skates (weather pending). To check ice conditions head to Lake Morey Resort’s Facebook Page for updates.

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Snowshoe at Viking Nordic Center

Located down a tiny country road in Londonderry, Vermont Viking Nordic Center is a winter wonderland for the entire family to explore. Family-owned and operated for over 50 years, the Viking Nordic center has over 26 km of ski and snowshoe trails and 4 additional km of snowshoe-only trails. And if it’s your first time trying either sport or you don’t have the equipment you’ll be all set because they have rentals.

I visited recently with a friend who has 3 young children and we had a blast. We went snowshoeing through the trails closer to the entrance and looked for the Cookie Punches. When we were all done we had found them all and each of the kids got a tasty cookie! One of my friend’s kids is itty bitty and they rented a sled for her to sit in as they pulled.

One year for Valentine’s Day Sweet William brought me to Viking Nordic Center for their night snowshoeing. They light up several of their trails and even have a special trail called “lover’s lane” lit with old fashion lanterns.

Read More: Winter Getaways in New England

Find vermont’s covered bridges.

Vermont has over 100 covered bridges in all different sizes. Some of them have been around for longer than many locals can remember and others are new designs. No matter where you are in Vermont there will be a covered bridge close by.

Most winters there is fresh snow atop the covered bridges making them picture perfect! check out the Vermont Covered Bridges map below to find one near you.

Vermont in Winter: Try Ice Fishing

After surviving 7 Vermont winters , I finally went ice fishing while we didn’t go in the best spot and only caught 1 fish it was such a blast! With so many lake scattered across Vermont there are plenty of places to go ice fishing. Bring a hot drink and some warm clothes and you’re ready to go.

The one downside is to go ice fishing you need a lot of equipment. However, there are plenty of local guides who know the best spots to take you. I recommend the Bethel, Vermont based guide Stay Bent Fishing Tours . Book your trip with them today.

Read More: Things to do [During Every Season] In Vermont

Taste vermont beer.

Vermont has more breweries per capita than any other state, and it is delicious! While most of the breweries are located near Burlington many of them are scattered throughout the state.

A few of my personal favorites are:

• Fiddlehead Brewing Company in Shelburne
• Lost Nation Brewery in Morrisville
• Otter Creek Brewing in Middlebury
• Switchback Brewing in Burlington
• The Alchemist in Stowe

You can go to many local bars and restaurants to taste Vermont’s delicious beer. To take it up a notch, head over to the Vermont Brewers Association website and check out the many Beer Trails they’ve created, visit the breweries, and meet the people who create this delicious beer.

Go Dog Sledding

If you go somewhere with snow there is going to be dog sledding, however, not all dog sledding teams are created equal. Some animals live in cages when not sledding and aren’t happy and friendly animals. At Eden Dog Sledding in Eden Mills, Vermont, it’s a different story.

They pride themselves on their dogs being free-range dogs that go on road trips to the store, sleep in beds, and are never in chains.

A visit to meet and sled the “un-chained gang” as they call them, is always a blast. Depending on the tour you choose you could:

• Meet the dogs and get to play with them too!
• Help harness the dogs before sledding.
• Sled through north wood of Vermont.
• Feed the dogs treats after sledding.
• Tour the Dog Kennel.
• Learn about Dog Pack Dynamics.

No matter which tour you choose this is sure to be a once in a lifetime experience you’ll love!

Visit the Vermont Icelandic Horse Farm

If you’re a horse lover make sure to stop at the Vermont Icelandic Horse Farm , one of the few places in the state where you can see these beautiful animals. Offering trail rides year-round and multi-day treks in the Fall the Vermont Icelandic Horse Farm will make sure you have a fun and unique experience.

You can even stay right at the farm in their 3 bedroom guest house or at the Inn. Both spots are beautifully furnished and offer top-notch service.

Vermont in Winter: Go Snowmobiling

Since the late 1960s Vermont has maintained over 5,000 miles of snowmobiles across the state. Locals and visitors alike enjoy taking to the trails to explore the wilderness of Vermont. Snowmobiling is a great way to see the woods of Vermont in a unique way.

For guided tours check out Snowmobile Vermont . They do tours in Stowe (one of the best winter vacation spots in the US! ), Killington/Okemo, and Mount Snow. If you have your own snowmobile please adhere to the guidelines set up by VAST (Vermont Association of Snow Travelers) to ensure your safety and the safety of others.

What do you like to do in Vermont in Winter? Let me know in the comments!

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2 thoughts on “Vermont in Winter like a local: 9 Best Things to Do in Vermont in Winter”

Yeees so many fun ideas for when Vermont is a winter wonderland! I love hiking up to fire lookout towers here too- they always have the vest viewpoints – it looks even more amazing covered in ice! Snowshoeing and dog sledding all sounds great too. 🙂

I’ve lived in Vermont for about 7 years now and I did my first fire tower hike this winter! I can’t believe it took me this long to do one. I’ve got a few more in store before the snow melts.

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11 Best Places to Visit in Vermont in Winter – Vermont Winter Vacation!

• Reading time: 14 mins read
• Post last modified: October 7, 2022
• Post author: Ammara Fayyaz

Vermont is a state in the northeastern United States known for its natural beauty. The state is covered with mountains, forested natural beauty, and rivers and is popular for outdoor activities like hiking.

Vermont is also home to several small towns and villages, each with its unique character. Whether looking for a quiet place to relax or an exciting area to explore, Vermont has something to offer everyone. In fact, winter is also a great time to visit Vermont!

The cold weather brings out the best in the state’s natural scenery, and there are plenty of activities to enjoy, from skiing and snowboarding to ice skating and sledding. Plus, Vermont is home to some of the country’s best holiday markets, so you can find unique gifts for everyone on your list.

If you have planned to visit Vermont in winter, you will surely be looking for the best places to visit. Here is a list.

Best Places to Visit in Vermont in Winter:

Woodstock, Vermont, is a beautiful town to visit year-round, but it especially comes alive in winter. The snow-covered streets and historic buildings create a picturesque scene, and the pace of life is slower and more relaxed. There are plenty of activities to enjoy, from sledding and skiing to ice skating.

Apart from enjoying many activities, there are some places you must visit while in Woodstock, such as Marsh-Billings-Rockefeller National Historical Park.

There are many shops and restaurants downtown where you can go and enjoy delicious food.

Besides, winter is the perfect time to cozy up by the fireplace with a good book or take a long walk in the woods. Whether looking for a romantic getaway or a family vacation , Woodstock is the perfect place to enjoy all winter offers.

Stowe is a picturesque town in the heart of Vermont’s Manfield Mountains. The town is best known as a popular ski destination, but it also has much to offer visitors during winter. The mountain slopes are covered in snow, making them ideal for skiing and snowboarding.

Numerous hiking trails wind through the forests, offering breathtaking views of the surrounding countryside. In addition, Stowe is home to several museums and historical sites, which provide a glimpse into the town’s rich history.

You can visit the Vermont Ski and Snowboard Museum , which hosts a variety of skiing and snowboard artifacts. If you are a skiing professional, this place is heaven for you. Even if you aren’t, this place is fun for everyone. Stowe is sure to have something for everyone, whether you’re looking for excitement or relaxation.

Another best activity during the winter is going on a dogsledding adventure. But where should you go? You should consider Eden Mills, Vermont.

Here’s why: First of all, the setting is stunning. The picturesque village is nestled in the Mountains, and there are endless opportunities for exploration. Whether you want to take a scenic hike or just enjoy the views from your cozy cabin, you’ll be in awe of your surroundings.

Second, dog sledding is top-notch. You’ll have the opportunity to mush with a team of huskies dogs through beautiful forests and meadows, and you’ll quickly fall in love with this exhilarating activity.

It is an amazing winter experience while traveling to Vermont during winter.

Burlington is a picturesque New England city with a lively downtown and a strong sense of community. Winter is a particularly magical time in Burlington when the snow-covered streets and twinkling lights create a scene straight out of a postcard.

And although the temperatures can be chilly, there are plenty of ways to stay warm, from sipping hot cocoa at one of the local cafes to exploring the many art galleries and boutiques. 

Burlington is sure to satisfy you if you’re looking for a winter wonderland or simply seeking respite from the hustle and bustle of daily life. Plus, Burlington has much to offer visitors year-round.

Don’t confuse this Manchester with the one in England. It is one of the most beautiful towns in Vermont. Manchester, Vermont, is a small town located in southern Vermont.

The town is near some of the best ski resorts , which attract visitors from all over the US. The town also has a lot to offer during the summer. Visitors can enjoy hiking, biking, and golfing in the beautiful Vermont scenery.

There are also several excellent restaurants and shops in Manchester, Vermont, where you can enjoy the delicious local food.

Manchester is the perfect destination if you are looking for a small town with a lot to offer.

Bromley Mountain

Credit: Jared C. Benedict

Bromley Mountain is a popular destination for skiers and snowboarders, but it also offers a lot for those who enjoy other winter activities.

The mountain offers stunning views of the surrounding countryside. It is also home to a variety of wildlife, including deer, rabbits, and squirrels.

In addition, Bromley Mountain provides an excellent opportunity to enjoy the quiet beauty of nature.

Cross-country skiing and snowshoeing are both popular activities on the mountain, and there are several miles of trails to explore. Visitors can also enjoy sledding and tubing on the slopes, making it the best place to visit.

Lake Champlain

This picturesque lake is a popular summer destination for fishing, boating, and swimming. But, Believe it or not, winter also is one of the best times to visit Lake Champlain.

But when the temperatures start to drop and the leaves begin to fall, the lake takes on a whole new character.

The crowds thin out, leaving the shores quiet and peaceful. And as the water begins to freeze over, it transforms into a veritable winter wonderland. Ice fishers set up their shacks on the frozen surface while snowmobilers zip across the snow-covered waves.

The Mad River Valley

The Mad River Valley in Vermont is a beautiful place to visit any time of year. However, wintertime offers its own unique charms.

The snow-covered landscape is both picturesque and perfect for activities like cross-country skiing and snowshoeing. And after a day spent outdoors, there’s nothing better than cozying up by the fire with a cup of hot cocoa.

The other important highlight of the Mad River Valley is Ben and Jerry’s Factory , where you can try their delicious ice cream.

It’s the perfect place to spend a winter vacation. There’s something for everyone, from those who want to stay active to those who just want to relax and take in the scenery.

Recommended Reading:

Best Places to Visit in Pennsylvania in Winter

Bolton Valley

Credit: Bolton Valley

Bolton Valley is a great place to visit for its outstanding natural beauty and awesome family skiing spot!

There are also numerous hiking trails that provide stunning views of the surrounding mountains. Bolton Valley is also a popular destination for skiing. But in summer, this place is popular for mountain biking, hiking, and other interesting events.

The resort offers a variety of trails for all levels of skiers, from beginners to experts. In addition, the resort has a state-of-the-art snowmaking system, which ensures that there is always plenty of fresh powder on the slopes. 

The Lake Morey Area

Credit: mararie

Nestled in the picturesque Green Mountains of Vermont, the Lake Morey Area is a hidden gem. This scenic region offers a wealth of activities for visitors to enjoy, from hiking and biking to swimming and boating.

The area is also home to a variety of unique attractions. The best place to stay in the area is Lake Morey Resort , which is the oldest continuously-operating resort in the United States.

Morey Area is a great place to visit all year round, whether you’re looking to enjoy the outdoors or just take in the sights.

In the winter, the area is perfect for skiing, snowboarding, and other activities that give the whole family fun!

Quechee Gorge

The Quechee Gorge is one of Vermont’s most popular tourist destinations, and with good reason. The gorge is a sight to behold, with its towering cliffs and rushing waters.

The gorge takes on a new beauty in winter, as the snow and ice transform it into a veritable wonderland.

Visitors can explore the gorge on foot, taking in the breathtaking views of the frozen river below. Several hiking trails wind their way through the gorge’s woods for those feeling more adventurous.

Regardless of how you choose to explore it, the Quechee Gorge will leave you with a lasting impression.

Which is the Best Time to Enjoy Winters in Vermont?

There is no bad time to enjoy the winter season in Vermont. Each month has its own unique charms, from the sparkling snowfalls of December to the crisp, sunny days of February.

However, if you had to choose just one time of year to experience Vermont’s winter wonderland, the best time would probably be January.

January is typically the coldest month of the year in Vermont. However, it is also one of the driest months. This means that you are more likely to experience crisp days during your visit.

January is also when Vermont’s famous ski resorts are at their best. So if you’re looking for the perfect combination of snow, sun, and fun, January is the best time to enjoy winters in Vermont.

No matter when you visit, make sure to enjoy all that Vermont has to offer – from its beautiful landscape to its delicious food!

If you are looking for a winter getaway that has plenty of activities to keep you busy, Vermont is the place for you. From skiing and snowboarding in the mountains to check out the charming small towns, there is something for everyone in this picturesque state.

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A fun vermont winter itinerary for families.

April 5, 2023 By Mommy Gearest Leave a Comment

Flashback: it was March 13, 2020, and we were on our way to experience another beautiful Vermont winter ski trip, road-tripping in a Toyota Sienna despite the world closing down bit by bit. A mere hour from the U.S. border, all non-essential travel came to a halt. We pulled over, talked about the potential consequences of continuing, and ultimately turned around to come home. That Sienna sat in our driveway, packed with hope (and all of our ski gear), for another seven days before we reluctantly accepted that this virus thing wasn’t going away.

It was a full circle moment to finally make it back to Vermont, in a Sienna, this past March Break. And I’m so excited to share our itinerary — including a map below to help you plot your own adventure — so you can plan a Vermont road trip of your own next winter. To be clear: it doesn’t matter if you ski or snowboard; this Vermont winter itinerary has something for everyone.

So, buckle up and come along for the ride to see why you’ve got to add Vermont to your must-visit list.

Planning your Vermont winter itinerary

We’ve done this same Vermont winter ski pilgrimage for many March Breaks. At around six to seven hours one way from home, with various routes that include smooth highways, winding backroads, bridges with postcard views and even a potential ferry crossing in the mix, it makes for a stellar family road trip. But, as our kids get bigger, so does their ski equipment. What once would’ve fit into my CUV would now require a roof rack to transport.

Thankfully, the 2023 Toyota Sienna Hybrid 25th Anniversary Special Edition made its way into our lives and meant that we could get my kids, my parents and me plus our luggage and ski stuff into the trunk and in between the middle row with plenty of room for me to see out my rearview mirror. We’re talking six days’ worth of stuff for five people plus three sets of skis, boots, poles, goggles, base layers, outwear and more. (So. Much. More.)

OK, let’s talk itinerary planning. If you’re coming from the Greater Toronto Area, you can make your way to Vermont via New York or Quebec. My advice is to travel via Quebec if you’re starting your road trip in Northern Vermont, like we did at Smugglers’ Notch Resort. Then, come home via the New York ferry crossing between Grand Isle, VT, and Plattsburgh, NY, if you end your Vermont winter road trip in South Burlington, which makes the most sense if you follow our route in the map I created below.

The itinerary I’ve outlined here means you get a little bit of everything that’s quintessentially Vermont — mountainside experiences, Ben & Jerry’s, maple syrup and more — plus some U.S.-only bonuses for Canadians who dream of having daily access to the likes of Target and Trader Joe’s. It can be layered onto a longer road trip that encompasses more of the state (like the gorgeous and historic Warren, VT, for example) or customized for craft beer lovers, since Vermont is the craft beer capital of the United States.

Vermont winter road trip map

To help you plan your ideal route, I created a Google Map with all of the Vermont winter itinerary stops pinned:

We love a road trip with mountain views — like our British Columbia road trip last summer where we drove from Vancouver to Whistler and then uncovered sooooo many things to do on Vancouver Island — and Vermont is chock-full of them! There’s nothing like having a 4,000-foot mountain rise up on the horizon line as your elevation changes. This is the Appalachian Mountain system, after all, so those mountain views are guaranteed.

Yes, this is also a road trip built for those who love driving. And I’d be remiss here not to mention that the Sienna’s handling is perfectly suited for this kind of road trip since it can handle everything from long stretches to the tightest turns.

Vermont winter itinerary highlights

You can cover a lot of ground in just six days, especially if you don’t spend most of them skiing like we did. (But, really, what else are you supposed to do when 3.5 feet of snow falls in the first four days of your stay?!) One of the things I love about Vermont is how easy day trips are, even if you decide to ski for the morning and spend the afternoon going out and about.

That’s part of what makes Smugglers’ Notch Resort such an awesome home base; it’s in great proximity to everything on the map above, even if you decide to make Burlington a day trip instead of your route home. Plus, with condos that can accommodate up to 10 people, featuring full kitchens and free on-demand shuttles to take you anywhere at the resort — like the indoor swimming pools, two-floor kids’ play zone, Nordic centre, tubing runs and the main village with its restaurants, country store and Ben & Jerry’s outpost — you can bring grandparents along for some Vermont winter fun or share it with another family.

Alrighty, it’s time to walk you through this Vermont winter itinerary! We’re going to kick off this road trip in Northern Vermont between Jeffersonville and Johnson, then work our way to Burlington via Stowe and Waterbury…and since some people prefer a video format, I put together a highlight reel of the itinerary (but don’t worry, Type As — your detailed overview is alive and well below; just keep scrolling).

Things to do in Jeffersonville (Vermont)

Starting in Jeffersonville, where Smuggs is located, there’s enough to keep you busy here for a whole week if you maximize what’s at the resort:

• Three mountains on which you can ski and snowboard, with progressive difficulty (fun fact: Smuggs is home to the only triple black diamond run in North America) and loads of backcountry options. In case you’re looking, some of the best places to ski in the trees is actually on Morse Mountain, just to the right when you get off at midstation, and plenty more over in the Highlands area
• Night School — learn a new snow skill! We tried snowboarding and the 1.5-hour lesson and rentals combined was only US$75 per person

• Tubing — there are two tubing locations at Smuggs; one for afternoon tubing and one for evening tubing. It’s loads of fun and we suggest wearing your goggles overtop of your winter hat if you want to see while tubing
• Swimming — Smuggs is home to a number of indoor heated pools and hot tubs
• You can also just wander around and enjoy village life — or stop to people watch while enjoying a hot cocoa sitting at one of the working fire pits

• FunZone 2.0 — do NOT forget your kids’ running shoes like we did or they won’t be able to use the Ozone section of the FunZone space, which is where the climbing wall and laser tag live
• CatTrax Tour — for US$69 per person, this is a really neat experience (especially for people like my parents who would otherwise never have the opportunity to stare down a ski run from the summit). Up to 12 people can ride up the mountain in a modified groomer, which has a heated cab added to its back end

• You won’t go hungry at Smuggs; there’s a Country Store, Ben & Jerry’s and full-service restaurants in the main village at the base of Morse Mountain plus over in between the Sterling and Madonna Mountain lifts. The Hearth & Candle deserves a special shout-out for being one of the only fine-dining restaurants I know of where you can saunter in wearing just about anything and no one will look at you sideways
• Fireworks — every Thursday night all winter long

Branching out from your home-away-from-home at Smuggs, here are some other spots to hit nearby:

• Vermont Maple Outlet — we stock up here on the darkest maple syrup (but they sell all four kinds) because the prices are really good and you can get HUGE jugs of the sweet stuff
• Wyckoff Family Maple — new since our last visit, this gourmet sugar shack looks like a million bucks and if Mr. Wyckoff didn’t build it himself by hand, it probably would have cost that much to erect. There isn’t a single nail to be found in the joint — the entire structure uses only wood and old-fashioned engineering to stay standing. Be sure to pop in and do a syrup tasting with any of the nine flavour-infused options (we took home the bourbon and cardamom syrups)
• The Family Table — a great new restaurant in Jeffersonville (have the calamari)
• Brewster River Pub & Brewery — accessible by the Smuggs shuttle, even though it’s not technically on Smugglers’ Notch Resort property, this lively pub is one of my family’s favourites

Note that in the summer months, there’s even more to do in Jeffersonville, but since this is all about a Vermont winter visit, you’ll have to wait for a summer itinerary or go rogue and explore on your own.

Things to do in Johnson (Vermont)

Nearby Johnson is absolutely lovely to visit in warmer weather (you can actually get there by bike on a rail trail from Smuggs), but in winter, it’s our favourite place to stock up on groceries and beer, wine and alcohol when we stay at Smuggs.

Although the shopping in Cambridge is closer ,Johnson’s Sterling Market — and its connected liquor/beer store — has the best selection for groceries, including homemade breads, farm-fresh milk and some organic products. And alllllll the Cabot Cheese!

The Farm Store serves our favourite fancy coffees and has the yummiest baked goods, so that’s also worth visiting during your Vermont winter vacation — especially if you’ll be nearby shopping at Johnson’s.

Things to do in Stowe (Vermont)

Stowe — known as the ski capital of the east and the birthplace of ski patrolling — is a quintessential example of an historic New England town, with the first of its buildings going up in 1811. Although the local household income isn’t one of wealth, Stowe is home to some of the priciest homes in the USA thanks to its proximity to Mount Mansfield, which is where alpine skiing first took shape in North America.

Just driving along highway VT-108 as you come through Stowe, you’ll see an immediate shift. The old and sometimes colourful homes become grander and more stately, and you’ll eventually come upon downtown Stowe, fully of shops and restaurants that could easily take half a day to explore should you opt to make this a day trip from Jeffersonville. Be sure to pop into Remarkable Things at Stowe Craft for an eclectic selection of giftables and collectibles while you’re here.

If you get hungry in Stowe, one of our favourite restaurants downtown is Doc Ponds. But if you’re up for some more driving, I’d encourage you to have a poke around the Trapp Family Lodge grounds. If “Trapp” sounds familiar, von Trapp surely will. Yes, yes — those von Trapps, from the Sound of Music. This place is actually still owned and managed by two of Maria and the Captain’s grandchildren and it’s an absolute must-visit. We go every time we’re in Vermont because it’s such a special place. Here, you can grab a coffee (and pastry and even the von Trapp’s own eggs) at the Trapp Kaffeehaus or enjoy a meal at the von Trapp Brewery & Bierhall (the ale and cheddar soup is too good for words).

Before you leave Stowe, though, make sure you take a drive through The Lodge at Spruce Peak — the only Stowe Mountain Resort mountainside lodging available for guest rentals. It’s technically across the street but has direct mountain access via an exclusive gondola from The Lodge. We were supposed to stay here in 2020, and I vow to get there again to tell you more about this gem.

Things to do in Waterbury (Vermont)

With the first permanent white settler arriving in 1783 and The Central Vermont Railroad arriving in Waterbury in 1849, this town became a commercial hub. All these years later, Waterbury is home to Ben & Jerry’s — Vermont’s most popular tourist attraction. Even in winter, it needs to be on your list!

Ben & Jerry’s HQ offers tours, and you should book your tickets in advance if you have your heart set on a certain date and time. If you don’t care about the full history, and trying the daily “secret” ice cream available at the end of every tour, you can certainly still spend some time here taking in the experience. They’ve done a great job making it fun and interactive for customers just passing through who aren’t doing the tour. Plus, it has the most ice cream flavours you’ll find at any Ben & Jerry’s location — and we’ve never seen them run out of a flavour like they can at the various outposts. (My all-time fave? Cherry Garcia. Try it!)

While you’re in the neighbourhood, I also suggest visiting these three places, which are all within an easy walk of each other once you park:

• Cabot Creamery — all things Cabot cheese and butter (so good)
• Smugglers’ Notch Distillery — you’ll see “smugglers’ notch” used repeatedly in Vermont, which capitalizes on its place in the prohibition history books. This distiller crafts a number of spirits and liqueurs, and a tasting is definitely in order if you stop by
• Lake Champlain Chocolates — the Waterbury location has a full selection of the brand’s yummy chocolates, a hot chocolate and espresso café bar, homemade ice cream and even factory seconds if you’re a deal-hunter

Things to do in Burlington (Vermont)

On the eastern shore of Lake Champlain, next to New York and just southeast of the Canadian border — in what is surprisingly not the state capital — Burlington is Vermont’s hot spot with the biggest population and the most stuff . From gyms and big box stores to restaurants and lots of hotels, Burlington is also home to the main airport. If you’re flying in for your Vermont winter vacay, you’re probably going to fly into Burlington. (Just make sure you’ve got a car rental or private driver waiting for you, because it’s shocking that those are basically the only options to get out to the state’s various ski resorts.)

Is there a Burlington Coat Factory here? Friends, I still don’t know. It’s a question I ask myself every time I visit but don’t really care enough to Google. (Three cheers for random thoughts.)

What I do know is that there’s both a Trader Joe’s and a Target in Burlington. The Target isn’t the best one you’ll find in the eastern US, but when in Burlington…worth it. But the real star of the show here is Trader Joe’s; we love this place! There are so many good reasons Trader Joe’s is a cult favourite among Canadians and unless you want to pay crazy markups to get the goods via Amazon, it’s best to go straight to the source. Stock up on our personal favourites like the brand’s shampoo bar, shave cream, dark chocolate peanut butter cups, Everything But the Bagel seasoning, Bourbon vanilla extract, cacao-dusted almonds and the chili-lime rolled tortilla chips, among others.

If you end up heading back to the Toronto area via Burlington (by taking the long way like we did so we could hit Stowe and Waterbury en route), you’ll have a long day of driving ahead of you. And if you’re sporting something like the all-new 25th Anniversary Special Edition Toyota Sienna Hybrid, you’ll be doing in very comfortably.

Here are just a few final reasons we loved driving the Sienna to Vermont this past winter:

• The turn-by-turn directions appear both on the display AND on the dash, keeping my eyes on the road and my back-seat drivers pacified
• The 12-speaker JBL audio system
• Wireless smartphone charging between the two front seats
• Enough USB and USB-C ports to keep the whole family connected while in transit
• An ability to customize everyone’s ride, especially when it comes to heating and cooling. The Toyota Sienna Hybrid makes this especially easy with front and rear climate controls right at the driver’s fingertips
• Dynamic Radar Cruise Control — tied with the kick-open trunk and side doors, this is my absolute favourite feature! Once you set your cruising speed, the Sienna’s built-in dynamic radar adjusts to the vehicle’s speed ahead of you to ensure you never get too close too fast
• It’s got CarPlay! As soon as I enabled my iPhone, it built a seamless bridge to the Sienna’s display

But I need to extrapolate on the CarPlay front here and give you a pro tip when it comes to the Sienna’s built-in navigation assistance; if you have data available to you in the USA, be sure to use CarPlay to access Apple Maps, Google Maps or the Waze app on your iPhone. While the Sienna’s directions were spot on 95 per cent of the time, we had two occasions where Waze was the better way to go since it knew about a seasonal road closure in Stowe and the ferry crossing between Vermont and New York, and the nav system didn’t. It doesn’t mean you won’t get to your destination — it just means that you could be more efficient using CarPlay.

Toyota Sienna 25th Anniversary Special Edition — hybrid fuel efficiency

Yep, the Toyota Sienna continues to be so freaking impressive when it comes to fuel efficiency that I’m closing out this post by giving it it’s own section.

In all, we travelled 1,624 kilometres and — thanks to the Sienna’s hybrid system, which charges the battery while you drive (no need for plugs!) — we only stopped for gas twice and spent $120 plus change (Canadian!). I mean, that’s  seriously impressive. All said and done, bells and whistles aside, THAT is what makes the Sienna a consistent road-tripping dream.

Just can’t get enough of Vermont? Here are some additional posts of mine you may want to read next:

• 4 places to go spring skiing in Northern Vermont
• Smugglers’ Notch skiing & lesson info
• 8 things to do at Smugglers’ Notch Resort this winter

Have more Vermont winter itinerary suggestions? Feel free to leave them in the comments. Happy road tripping!

DISCLAIMER: Toyota Canada compensated me for this post. All itinerary suggestions and vehicle observations and opinions are my own.

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You Must Visit These 11 Awesome Places In Vermont This Winter

Kristin Grimes

Kristin Grimes lives in Vermont, is a freelance writer and busy MOM (Manager of Madness) and WIFE (Washing, Ironing, Feeding, Etc.)

More by this Author

Everyone knows that Vermont is a four-season destination, but now that winter is here we’d love to recap some of the best places to visit in Vermont in winter now that the snow is falling. If you love to embrace winter in the 802, here are some awesome winter places in Vermont to visit this winter. Happy Vermonting!

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Have you been to any of these best places to visit in Vermont in winter?

What are your favorite things to do in Vermont in winter? Let us know your thoughts and experiences by leaving a comment below. We look forward to hearing what you have to say!

These winter places in VT are spectacular, but no one can forget the one storm that blanketed the state in winter white .

OnlyInYourState may earn compensation through affiliate links in this article. As an Amazon Associate, we earn from qualifying purchases.

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More to Explore

Best places to visit in vermont in winter.

Vermont is one of the best places in the U.S. to visit in winter. As we have seen from the article above, there are many fun adventures awaiting you in Vermont this winter. From skiing some of the best slopes in New England to riding horseback in the picturesque wintery Vermont landscapes.  There's something for everyone in Vermont in winter. Find more fun things to do this winter in Vermont by checking out this list of the best winter towns in Vermont that come alive during the holiday season.

Is Vermont the coldest state?

Vermont is not the coldest state in the U.S., but it is consistently one of the coldest places. It has an average of 43.2°F, making it the seventh coldest state. For more information about what Vermont is like during the winter, check out the 21 things no one tells you about  surviving Vermont winters.

What is Vermont like in the winter?

Winter in Vermont is beautiful and cold. Temperatures almost exclusively stay below 32 degrees. But there are many winter activities to partake in, including:

• Skiing and snowboarding
• Winter camping
• Snowshoeing
• Ice skating

For more ideas of what winter is like in Vermont, check out these  12 best winter spots in Vermont  to explore this winter.

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Explore Vermont

15 Fun Things To Do in Burlington VT in Winter

March 14, 2024

Paula Martinelli

What are the best things to do in Burlington, VT in winter?

If you are planning a perfect Vermont itinerary and wondering what are the best things to do in Burlington VT winter that you cannot miss, you are at the right place! After having explored Burlington in winter, I am here to share the top things we cannot miss and some insider tips!

Burlington is the most visited city in Vermont , and besides being small, it is such a fun place to visit! Vermont in winter offers fun activities to fulfill everyone’s wanderlust – from quaint towns to excellent skiing resorts, and also some of the most romantic covered bridges in the country.

The small northwest Vermont town sits on Lake Champlain. The most popular attraction in Burlington is Church Street, a 4 block pedestrian marketplace, and the adorable downtown area full of shops and restaurants. You will find plenty of things to do in Burlington, as it is the center of nightlife, arts, and culture making this city a must-visit for a day or two during your trip to Vermont.

Winter is one of my favorite times to go to Burlington because there are many fun activities. There is something for everyone, from traditional winter sports to unique shows and bars, even if you don’t want to be outside in the cold!

This guide to the best things to do in Burlington VT in winter is packed with very helpful tips , plus the best places to stay, and the must-visit breweries and restaurants. So without any further ado, let’s explore the best of Burlington Vermont!

You will also love ❤️ :

• Perfect Vermont Road Trip Itinerary
• 15 Coziest & Most Romantic Cabins to Rent in Vermont
• 15 Most Beautiful Inns & Boutique Hotels in Vermont

15. Rent a cabin or a lake house in Burlington VT in winter

Essential Tips for Visiting Burlington, VT in Winter

Before you jump to the best things to do in Burlington in winter, let’s talk about trip planning and make sure you are prepared for the best experience:

❄️ If you are wondering how many days you need to explore Burlington, I recommend spending 2-days to take full advantage of all the things you find to do in Burlington

❄️You can stay in Burlington as a base if you are planning to take nearby day trips

❄️ Burlington offers fantastic options for accommodations. I recommend booking your stay at the incredible Williston Village Inn or the Essex Resort – both are considered some of the best inns in Vermont.

❄️ Make sure you choose accommodation in a good area , where you can easily drive around and explore the main attractions. Make your reservations in advance as Burlington in winter is a popular destination and it may be hard to find last-minute accommodations.

❄️ I also recommend checking on the amazing cozy and romantic cabins in Vermont , for an authentic experience, or choose one of the most beautiful boutique hotels in Vermont for a dreamy vacation.

❄️ If you are planning to go for any sports or outdoor adventure during wintertime in Vermont, I highly recommend  booking tickets to attractions  in advance.

❄️ Driving a 4×4 car during wintertime in Vermont is not necessary, but it is nice to have if you are planning to drive outside the town.

❄️ You will need a car to explore the surroundings of Burlington . You can save on your rental car when you book through this site . I use and recommend Discover Cars because it is the most reliable rental car source, and it allows you to compare the prices of different places.

15 Terrific Things to do in Burlington, VT in Winter

1. skiing in burlington, vermont.

Skiing is one of Vermont’s most popular winter activities, and there are tons of amazing mountains that you can get to from Burlington. Whether you are a lifelong skier or a beginner who needs some lessons on the bunny hill, you’ll find a slope for you in or near Burlington.

Here are some of the mountains and ski centers you should visit in Burlington, Vermont winter:

• Bolton Valley Nordic Center
• Catamount Outdoor Family Center
• Cochran’s Ski Area
• Sleepy Hollow Inn Ski & Bike Center

Many of these mountains are between Burlington and Montpelier, another one of my favorite cities in Vermont for a winter getaway .

2. Ice Skating at Burlington’s Rinks

Ice skating is a classic winter activity, and it’s a lot of fun in Burlington. You can visit two community rinks: Calahan Park Community Rink and Lakeside Skating Rink.

There is a unique place called Arthur Park that lets you skate on wild ice, which means you are skating on a lake instead of a man-made rink. Skating on wild ice requires a lot of precautions, and there are risks involved. But, from the ice, you get a great view of the Sea Caves.

3. Snowshoeing is one of the best things to do in Burlington VT in winter

Snowshoeing is another fun winter activity you can do in Burlington, VT. One of the prettiest places to snowshoe is North Beach, just north of downtown on the lake.

There are no groomed trails at North Beach, so if you are a beginner, you may want to go to Intervale Community Farm . You can also walk or ski at the Intervale if snowshoeing isn’t for you!

4. Take a Sleigh Ride

Sleigh rides are one of the best winter activities, and you have to take one in Burlington, Vermont, so you can admire the winter scenery.

Shelburne Farms is not only a beautiful place in the winter, but it is the best place to take a sleigh ride in the winter! You can drive to the farm from downtown Burlington in less than 15 minutes. After your sleigh ride, stay on the farm to enjoy other fun activities like the indoor winter Farmers’ market and educational winter farm events.

You can also take sleigh rides in Stowe, Vermont, like at Gentle Giants Sleigh Rides & Carriage Rides or Sterling Mountain Carriage Services. And there are plenty of other awesome things to do in Stowe, VT, in winter .

5. Eat and Shop on Church Street

This is my favorite thing to do in Burlington VT in winter. Church Street is one of the main roads that runs through downtown Burlington, and four blocks of the street make up the pedestrian Church Street Marketplace.

While the marketplace is outdoors, there are plenty of shops along the street to stop in on cold winter days. There are a few chain stores, but most of them are local boutiques unique to Burlington.

If you are here during the holiday season, it’s the perfect place to buy your gifts. Church Street is also where many of the town’s events occur throughout the year, including the Christmas tree lighting at the end of November.

When you’re done shopping, rest and enjoy a meal at one of Burlington’s amazing restaurants. A few popular ones include The Farmhouse, E B Strong’s Steakhouse, and Top of the Block Sandwich Shop, all of which are open in the winter with indoor seating!

PRO-TIP: Church Street is decorated with hundreds of lights between December and April. Even if you are not shopping, you should take some time to walk down the street on a Winter night in Burlington, VT.

6. Drink at Burlington’s Breweries

Did you know that Vermont is the state with the most breweries per capita? And, there are plenty to visit in Burlington where you can spend a cold winter day or night.

Here are the breweries in downtown Burlington.

• Foam Brewers
• The Vermont Pub & Brewery
• Citizen Cider

No matter where you go in downtown Burlington, whether it be a brewery, bar, or restaurant, you will find some craft beer made in Vermont. And there are lots of popular breweries just south of downtown Burlington.

These four breweries are all close together, so you can make a day of hopping between them

• Zero Gravity Brewery
• Queen City Brewery
• Switchback Brewing Co.
• Burlington Beer Company

You can also take a Burlington brewery tour if you want to go to some breweries but don’t want to do the planning yourself. Some brewery tours take you to the most popular breweries and have lots of recommendations for what to try. Or, you can find a tour that lets you pick the breweries, but they handle the transportation for you.

Pro tip: You can also choose to go on a Classic Beer Tour with tasting and lunch to taste the best of Burlington.

7. Game the Night Away at the Archives

Right off of Church St. is The Archives, an arcade bar with vintage games. They have pinball machines, classic video games, and more that can keep you entertained even on the coldest winter days.

When you’re not playing games, you can enjoy craft beer, classic cocktails, and wines from the bar. They also have some unique cocktails, which are usually a spin-off of the classics.

8. Catching a Live Show is a great way to enjoy Burlington in winter

Burlington, Vermont, has a variety of live entertainment, and what better way to spend a winter day than to see a show?

The Flynn is Burlington’s nearly century-old theater with many different local and national performances. The types of shows range from classical music to dance groups to comedy shows. But you never know what kind of show will be at the theater when you’re in Burlington, so check out their calendar and grab some tickets.

If you are looking for a night of laughter, check out the Vermont Comedy Club in downtown Burlington. There are shows most nights of the week, from up-and-coming comedians to open mic nights and trivia nights. There is also a small cafe at the comedy club that is open during the day where you can get some coffee and a fresh breakfast.

Some bars in town have live music. Radio Bean is an intimate bar with live music, theater, poetry, and dancing. They serve local beers, coffee, cocktails, and small plates for you to enjoy during the live shows.

Another fun bar with live music is Nectar’s , a more traditional bar than Radio Bean. They sell food and have a large list of craft and domestic beer, wines, and cocktails.

9. Enjoy the incredible Lake Champlain

This should be on top of the list of the best things to do in Burlington VT in winter. Lake Champlain freezes over in the cold winter, and the frozen water and winter scenery are breathtaking. You should brave the cold and walk along the Burlington Greenway, an eight-mile paved biking and hiking path that runs along the lake.

The city keeps the path plowed and free of snow and ice the best it can to keep it safe for you. However, they do not use any salt or chemicals on the path since it is right next to the lake.

PRO-TIP: If you love Lake Champlain, there are many other pretty outdoor places to see and explore in Vermont in Winter , like covered bridges and Mad River Valley .

10. Explore Burlington Greenway from Waterfront Park To Grand Isle

If you love the outdoors, this is the best thing to do in Burlington in winter. This beautiful paved bike path follows Lake Champlain’s shoreline for 8 miles, connecting many of Burlington’s lakeside parks. If you have time, you can take a bike ferry that crosses a short section all the way to the Island Line Trail further North.

You can rent a bike and cycle it, go for a run, or just walk to appreciate the stunning views along the Greenway Bike Path .

11. Attend a Winter Festival in Burlington

Burlington has events happening year-round, and some of the best ones are in the winter.

One of the most significant events is the Vermont Penguin Plunge . Participants raise money for the Special Olympics leading up to the event, and on the day of the Penguin Plunge, they run and plunge into Lake Champlain. It’s a great event to watch, participate in, and donate to.

And, if you are in Burlington, Vermont, at the start of the winter season, there is a Holiday Parade , a Christmas tree lighting, and a visit with Santa every year around Thanksgiving. The holiday festivities continue throughout December.

There are always new events and festivals popping up too! Attending a festival or event in winter is a great way to meet the locals and learn more about Burlington, Vermont.

12. Visit Sugartree Maple Farm

One of the best parts of visiting Burlington, Vermont in winter is taking a trip to Sugartree Maple Farm. Vermont has a ton of maple trees, and wintertime is the prime sugaring time for the maple industry. The sugaring season usually goes from mid-February to early April.

At Sugartree Maple Farm, you can buy maple foods made with 100% natural maple, like syrup, sugar, and candy. If you visit in the winter, you’ll get a behind-the-scenes look at how the maple tree sap gets made into syrup. And, you can get a sample of fresh maple syrup, which is an indescribable taste in the best way.

13. Take Day Trips from Burlington

Yes, it is true that there are plenty of fun things to do in Burling VT in winter. But I strongly recommend you take some side trips to the nearby areas if you have more time to spend in this area.

A great option is to take a day trip to Stowe. The Alpine-style mountain town offers great options for ski resorts and is one of the most beautiful towns in Vermont. Here you can also drive to search for some of the best-covered bridges in the State , and of course, you cannot miss a visit to the original Ben & Jerry’s Ice Cream factory. You can see more about the best things to do in Stowe to help plan your trip.

Another option for amazing side trips from Burlington is the quaint town of Shelburn , a very charming town that truly captures the essence of Vermont.

And Middlebury , a quaint town with brick and stones buildings and the gently sloping town green and cascading falls of the Otter Creek

14. Lake Champlain Chocolates

Do you still have a sweet tooth after all the maple syrup? How about some chocolate?!

Lake Champlain Chocolates has more than a dozen stores selling their chocolates in the Burlington area, and there’s no better way to warm up in the winter than to have some delicious chocolate.

At the flagship store on Pine St., you can take a self-guided tour of the store, where you will learn about the chocolate-making process and admire the largest chocolate sculpture exhibit in the state.

If you are in downtown Burlington, be sure to stop at the Church St. store and try one of their signature chocolate-dipped marshmallows (the perfect winter treat!). They also sell hot chocolate and espresso to warm you up on a cold winter day.

Last, but not least on this amazing list of things to do in Burlington, VT in winter, is to rent a cabin and get warm and cozy by the fire. This is seriously one of my favorite things to do any time I take a winter vacation.

It is a perfect scene experience to invite magic and romance by sipping a glass of wine sitting in front of a wood burn fireplace at the end of the day. Or to get up in the morning and slowly enjoy a hot coffee while watching the white wonderland just outside your window.

You can choose to stay at a romantic feel with amazing mountains or forest views, such as this Robert Frost Mountain Cabin , located just outside Burlington in the quaint town of Middlebury.

Or if you are traveling with a group of up to 6 people this Rustic Lake House on Lake Champlain is a wonderful choice. I just recommend renting way in advance, as they tend to go fast!

Best Places to Stay in Burlington VT in Winter

If you are visiting Burlington in winter, remember that Vermont normally has more snow per year than other US states, therefore, it is easier to stay centrally as it is easier to explore the city by foot.

Also, another benefit to staying downtown is the best option for anyone who wants to be at the heart of the lively town. However, options here are very limited and hit the top end of the budget range. If you are looking for a quiet and romantic getaway, you can choose a cabin or a lake house just outside Burlington, as a short drive.

You can check the top 15 Best cabins in Vermont or I have selected some top-rated places to stay in Vermont, VT winter:

OVERALL TOP PICK: Hotel Vermont Burlington

Guests Rate

This hotel is rated 9.2 / 10, and it is perfectly located near Waterfront Park.  It is a modern hotel, featuring on-site dining and contemporary artwork. You will love the free bicycles and yoga classes. The Church Street Marketplace is only 10-minute walk away.

BEST CABIN: Robert Frost Mountain Cabins

You can choose to stay at a romantic feel with amazing mountains or forest views, such as this Robert Frost Mountain Cabins , located just outside Burlington in the quaint town of Middlebury. Each unit features a patio, a fully equipped kitchen with a microwave, a fireplace, a seating area, and a hot tub. Rated as a 9.9 Exceptional by the guest!

BEST BUDGET HOTEL: Hilton Garden Inn Burlington Downtown

The Hilton Garden Inn offers an excellent location and it is affordable. It is rated 8.4 by the guests. It has a fitness center, indoor pool, and restaurant. With a breakfast buffet with healthy choices.

What to Pack for Burlington VT in Winter

You need to plan the right packing for your winter vacation in Burlington. Make sure you are prepared, considering the season and the activities you are planning to do. Here are some quick tips:

• Pack layers are the best you can do!
• Pack rain gear – you don’t want to get soaked wet while exploring
• A hat, gloves, and scarf  can’t go wrong, even in summer.
• Bring good quality sturdy snow boots .
• Bring warm leggings to wear as a layer is a smart choice!
• Pack a good and warm jacket a waterproof jacket for your trip, check my complete review guide on the Top Jackets for Travel
• If you are planning to carry a backpack for your trip to Vermont, I have compiled a very detailed review of the Best Backpacks for Travel on the market today

Things to do in Burlington, VT Winter Conclusion

In the winter, spending time in Burlington, Vermont, is so much fun, and you never run out of things to do and places to see. Whether you want to hit the slopes, try some of Vermont’s best craft beer, or enjoy a live show, there is something for everyone to do in the Burlington, Vermont winter.

There are plenty of awesome things to do in Burlington, VT in winter and you will easily fall in love, just like I did. And I cannot wait to get back in the fall to continue to explore more of this amazing destination.

If you are looking to visit Vermont, you will love to read this next:

• 15 Most Amazing Cabins you can Rent in Vermont
• 15 Best Inns & Boutique Hotels in Vermont
• Top 10 Most beautiful towns in Vermont for a perfect winter gateway
• 18 Awesome Things to do in Vermont in Winter
• Top Things to do in Stowe in Winter
• 20 Amazing Things to do in Woodstock, VT
• 20 Most Amazing Covered Bridges in Vermont
• Top-rated winter jackets: Expert Review

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Winter Vacation in Vermont: 10 Best Vermont Winter Getaways

A Perfect Vermont Road Trip Itinerary in 2024

20 Awesome Things To Do in Woodstock, Vermont in 2024

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25 Top Things to Do in Vermont

Outdoor adventures are just one of the high points of the Green Mountain State.

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Enchanting views of fall foliage, delicious creemees, tastings at sugarhouses and more await travelers to Vermont.

In 2019 – in an attempt to reverse the state's then-declining population – Vermont was paying people to move there, awarding up to $10,000 as part of a grant program aimed at would-be remote employees of out-of-state companies. Over the last two years, the state has experienced an influx of newcomers relocating there for reasons beyond just a cash incentive (though those grants were still available until recently). In fact, a report this year by a moving company ranked Vermont as the U.S. state with the highest inbound move rate in 2021.

Instead of money, the incentive to move to Vermont is Vermont itself – the same reason people have chosen to vacation here for decades. It's a peaceful, naturally beautiful place to escape, affording outdoor attractions that range from world-renowned ski resorts to the scenic Lake Champlain, which extends into New York and Quebec.

Vermont also touts its share of charismatic small towns, unique lodging choices such as farm stays and all-inclusive resorts , and distinctive food and drink. This destination is worth a visit for its nationally recognized craft beer, the rich offerings of the Vermont Cheese Trail, the maple syrup – since Vermont produces more than 50% of the country's supply – and the "creemees," which are a slightly richer (and arguably tastier) take on soft serve ice cream.

There's no such thing as a bad time to visit Vermont – even the spring mud season has its offbeat perks – but fall is exceptionally beautiful, with perhaps the most stunning foliage in all of New England . Ever seen an iconic photo of a white church amid trees in hues of red and orange? That's Vermont (more specifically, Stowe).

Curious to see the Green Mountain State for yourself? If you're looking for the best things to do in Vermont, these are the experiences that should be on your list.

(Note: Some of the following activities, attractions and locations may be affected by the COVID-19 pandemic. New policies may be in place, including capacity restrictions, reservation requirements or mask mandates. Check with the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, the U.S. Department of State and local tourism boards before traveling.)

Lake Champlain

In 1998, Lake Champlain was briefly named one of the Great Lakes after then-President Bill Clinton signed into law a bill in which Senator Patrick Leahy of Vermont quietly deemed it as such. Eighteen days – and a heavy dispute – later, the title was rescinded after a determination that, geographically, Lake Champlain doesn't quite measure up to lakes like Superior and Michigan. But residents and tourists today can still recognize it for the great – not to be confused with Great – lake that it is.

With or without the esteemed title, Lake Champlain is a large freshwater lake that spans 435 square miles of surface water and wows visitors with views of the Green Mountains on one side and the Adirondacks on the other. Dozens of public beaches and boat launches line its shores, so you'll find no shortage of opportunities for recreation on the water, including boating, fishing, swimming and keeping an eye out for the mythological lake monster named Champ. The lake's popular island towns such as South Hero offer state parks, farms, orchards, vineyards, and even a few inns and campsites.

Ben & Jerry's Waterbury Factory Tour and Ice Cream Shop

Courtesy of Ben & Jerry's

Have you even been to Vermont if you don't take the factory tour at Ben & Jerry's ? At its flagship location in Waterbury (near Stowe), Ben & Jerry's offers 30-minute guided tours that include a short movie on the company's history, an overview of the production process, a look at the manufacturing area and an ice cream tasting. Of course, there's also an on-site ice cream shop and gift shop, and especially charming are the photo ops and Flavor Graveyard, where you can pay your respects to the "dearly de-pinted." Previous visitors confirm it's as touristy as it seems, but fun nonetheless.

Address: 1281 Waterbury-Stowe Road, state Route 100, Waterbury, VT 05676

One of the top things to do in Vermont is spend a day or two in Burlington , where Church Street Marketplace , the centerpiece of town, offers shopping, restaurants (many with outdoor dining) and lodging such as the boutique Hotel Vermont . Of course, this popular waterfront city also boasts a variety of local breweries. Other highlights in Burlington include ECHO, Leahy Center for Lake Champlain , a science and nature museum; the Ethan Allen Homestead , a historical farmhouse site; and, for those who enjoy quirky attractions, the World's Tallest File Cabinet. Whatever you do, don't bypass the Burlington Bike Path, a pleasant paved trail that runs along Lake Champlain and connects beaches, parks and neighborhoods.

[See more of Burlington: Things to Do | Hotels | When to Visit | Photos ]

Island Line Trail

Courtesy of Hello Burlington and Local Motion

The Island Line Trail, an extension of the Burlington Bike Path, crosses the middle of Lake Champlain via a 3-mile marble causeway, allowing you to practically touch the water with your feet in some areas; there's nothing quite like it. This rail trail begins in Burlington and follows the route of a railbed – the Island Line – built in 1899 by the Rutland-Canadian Railroad to connect New England to the Great Lakes, until moving freight by other means became cheaper around the 1950s. The railbed remained abandoned until it became a path for pedestrians and cyclists in the 1980s, and this rail trail has been one of the most unique things to do in Vermont ever since. To reach the end of the 14-mile stretch, you have to take a ferry, which bridges a 200-foot gap in the causeway, before continuing the short journey to South Hero Island.

To acquire a bike, check out Local Motion, a rental shop and advocacy organization in Burlington. This outpost offers conventional and hybrid bikes as well as e-bikes and kids bikes; trailers or tag-alongs are available for certain rentals. Local Motion also operates the bike ferry and provides an interactive map of the trail. Both bike rentals and ferry rides are available seasonally from May to October.

Experience the sugarhouses

As one of the largest producers of maple syrup, Vermont has thousands of sugarhouses, many of which host Maple Open House Weekends in March with tours and tastings. The events align with sugaring season (and mud season), when oscillating temperatures allow sap to loosen and flow through maple trees for sugar makers to collect. If you don't want to visit Vermont during mud season but still want to learn about syrup production and history, check out Baird Farm in Chittenden, which offers free tours and tastings year-round (reservations required). Previous guests rave about the staff's hospitality here.

[Read: The Top Romantic Getaways in Vermont .]

Try out a delicious creemee

Courtesy of Canteen Creemee Company

Creemees are essentially soft-serve ice cream, but there's no real consensus on where the name came from. Perhaps the moniker derives from the fact that Vermont used to make its soft serve higher in butterfat content and, hence, creamier. Either way, the creemee's most iconic flavor is maple, but you can't go wrong with any flavor at places such as Canteen Creemee Company in Waitsfield, The Village Scoop in Colchester and Al's French Frys in Burlington, all of which come recommended by locals and visitors alike. If you're looking for plant-based options, head to Offbeat Creemee in Winooski.

Breweries and beer trails

If you like craft beer, chances are Vermont is already on your list of places to visit . Featuring some of the top-rated breweries in the U.S., Vermont is home to The Alchemist in Stowe, whose Heady Topper IPA has a cult following, as well as Freak Folk Bier in Waterbury and Hill Farmstead Brewery in Greensboro. If you really want to immerse yourself in the craft beer scene, follow one of the Vermont Brewers Association's beer trails (available online or on an app where you can take the Vermont Brewery Passport Challenge). Cyclists may want to check out the bike-friendly Burlington Trail, where you can imbibe highly rated beers at Foam Brewers. Pet owners can take advantage of the Dog Friendly Beer Trail to drink alongside furry friends, while the Tiny Trail will take beer enthusiasts exclusively to nano breweries.

Vermont Teddy Bear

What started as a Burlington street cart in 1981 has grown into a full-fledged store and experience in Shelburne, Vermont. At Vermont Teddy Bear, visitors can take a tour of the factory where the now-famous plush bears are made, including the Bear Hospital, where injured or sick teddy bears are lovingly repaired by the resident bear doctor. For an additional fee on top of the tour cost, visitors can make their own teddy bear to take home or gift to someone they love. It's the perfect way to commemorate a trip to Vermont for visitors of all ages. You can also check out the on-site Bear Shop to browse the selection of bears and Vermont-made products.

Address: 6655 Shelburne Road, Shelburne, VT 05482

Simon Pearce Flagship

Courtesy of Simon Pearce

Another item to immortalize a trip to Vermont (albeit more expensive than a teddy bear) is a handcrafted piece of glassware or pottery from the Simon Pearce store in Quechee, the namesake studio of a legendary Irish-American entrepreneur and artist who resides in Vermont. Located in a renovated historic woolen mill that's hydroelectrically powered by the Ottauquechee River – an attraction in itself – the artist's flagship store includes a workshop where you can watch craftspeople blowing glass pieces that are sold on-site, in addition to fine dining at The Mill at Simon Pearce, which overlooks a waterfall and covered bridge.

Address: 1760 Quechee Main St., Quechee, VT 05059

Hit the ski slopes in Stowe and beyond

Courtesy of Stowe Mountain Resort

Vermont is a world-renowned destination for skiing, with more than two dozen public ski areas on offer. Among them is Stowe Mountain Resort , nicknamed the "Ski Capital of the East" and considered one of the best places to ski in the U.S. This resort touts 485 acres of skiable terrain that cover Spruce Peak and Mount Mansfield, the highest point in Vermont. Just as good as the skiing and snowboarding is the town of Stowe itself, where shops and restaurants line Main Street and hotels such as Topnotch Resort and The Lodge at Spruce Peak offer luxury accommodations and amenities.

Check out other notable ski resorts such as Killington, the largest ski area on the East Coast, and family-friendly Smugglers' Notch, where winter activities include ski lessons for kids as young as 3, snowshoe scavenger hunts and a winter carnival. On any summer voyage to Vermont, don't overlook resorts such as Okemo, where you can ride what's essentially a flying couch – skiers will know it as a bubble chairlift – and hike to a historic fire tower for 360-degree mountain views.

[See more of Stowe: Things to Do | Hotels | When to Visit | Photos ]

Trapp Family Lodge

One of the hotels that make Stowe a popular place to stay is the Trapp Family Lodge , owned by the von Trapp family (yes, that von Trapp family). After the Trapp Family Singers toured the U.S. in the early 1940s, they decided to settle on a farm in Stowe, which reminded them of their home country, Austria . In the summer of 1950, the family opened a 27-room lodge. Later destroyed by a fire, the Trapp Family Lodge was rebuilt with a variety of accommodations, activities and on-site dining, now including von Trapp Brewing, where you can drink in the resort's history, mountain views, and a craft beer or two.

Address: 700 Trapp Hill Road, Stowe, VT 05672

Vermont Cheese Trail

All roads lead to cheese on the Vermont Cheese Trail, composed of more than 45 award-winning cheesemakers including Cabot Creamery. Some farms provide tastings and/or tours, while others simply sell their best products. Check out an online map of the Vermont Cheese Trail to see each cheesemaker's location and offerings.

Wondering where to begin your cheesy commute through Vermont? If you like aged cheddar, stop at Grafton Village Cheese or Shelburne Farms. For goat cheese, try the chevre varieties at Blue Ledge Farm. You also can't go wrong with the offerings at Consider Bardwell Cheese. No matter where you go, the products made by Jasper Hill Farm, whose cheeses rank among the best in the world, are more than worth a taste. While its location in the Northeast Kingdom region isn't open to the public, the farm's artisanal cheeses can be found at local grocery stores (and at select stores throughout the U.S.).

Liberty Hill Farm

Courtesy of Liberty Hill Farm

For a look at where the cheese process begins, Liberty Hill Farm offers tours and overnight accommodations. Guests of this dairy farm's cozy bed-and-breakfast enjoy a farm-fresh morning meal, afternoon cocoa and cookies, and a hardy dinner each day of their stay – with ingredients including Cabot Creamery cheeses. The biggest draw of a visit to Liberty Hill Farm, however, is the opportunity to feed and milk the resident cows. Even if you don't decide to stay at the inn, you can still book this activity through Airbnb Experiences . When you aren't doing kid-approved farm chores or meeting the animals, you will find plenty to do in the surrounding area. Previous guests, especially families with young children, say their farm experience was enriching, adding that the home-cooked meals are exceptionally good.

Address: 511 Liberty Hill, Rochester, VT 05767

General stores

For all things Americana and Vermont, take some time to browse a kitschy general store or two. The Vermont Country Store is the most famous, of course, with several locations throughout the state. Here you can buy everything from candy and gifts to clothing and kitchenware. But even more interesting is the F.H. Gillingham and Sons store in Woodstock: One of Vermont's oldest general stores still run by the same family, it's owned by descendants of Frank Henry Gillingham, who opened the general store in 1886, and Franklin Billings. Its original customer guarantee, "Your money's worth or your money back," is still honored today. Previous patrons love the vintage vibe of this store, with some calling F.H. Gillingham and Sons a mandatory stop in Woodstock.

Visit the former house and grave of Robert Frost

If you've ever enjoyed Robert Frost's poetry, head to the southwest corner of the state to learn more about the time he spent there. The first poet laureate of Vermont lived in a house in Shaftsbury in the 1920s that has since become the Robert Frost Stone House Museum; visitors can see the room where in 1922 Frost wrote his renowned poem "Stopping by Woods on a Snowy Evening." Explore the poet's life through letters, writing drafts, notes and other documents at this house museum, which is open seasonally from May through October.

Less than 5 miles away, you can make a pit stop at a historic cemetery in Old Bennington, located next to the Old First Church, to visit his grave, which is etched with a line of his poetry: "I had a lover's quarrel with the world." This burial ground is near the also visit-worthy Bennington Battle Monument, a storied structure that happens to be the tallest in Vermont.

Grafton Inn

Hang your hat where Ulysses S. Grant, Theodore Roosevelt, Woodrow Wilson, Ralph Waldo Emerson and other well-known figures once hung theirs. You'll see those names and the names of other famous guests in the cozy lobby of this inn, a member of the Historic Hotels of America. Grafton Inn offers individually (and beautifully) furnished rooms, suites and guesthouses on top of top-notch dining. The 1801 Tavern also houses Pine Room Bar, and the Phelps Barn Pub offers live music on select evenings. On-site activities include hiking, mountain biking, disc golf and pond swimming in the summer months, as well as cross-country skiing, snow tubing, snowshoeing and sleigh rides in the winter. There may not be tons to do in the village of Grafton itself – it's a small town with a cheese shop and a mercantile or two – but that's the allure.

Address: 92 Main St., Grafton, VT 05146

Shelburne Museum

Courtesy of Shelburne Museum

The Shelburne Museum has a little bit of everything, with attractions and activities located both indoors and out: The 39 buildings housing its collections are scattered across 45 acres. One popular exhibition can be found in the Circus Building, where you can ogle the fantastical, miniature Arnold Circus Parade, a hand-carved display that nearly runs the length of the 518-foot building. This unconventional museum also features historic Vermont structures, including a rare two-lane covered bridge from 1845, a Lake Champlain lighthouse from 1871 and the 1906 Ticonderoga, a restored 220-foot steamboat and National Historic Landmark that visitors can freely explore. Reviewers say the admission cost may be a bit steep but assure you'll understand why once you see just how special this museum is. Note that the Shelburne Museum is open seasonally from May to October.

Address: 6000 Shelburne Road, Shelburne, VT 05482

Basin Harbor

If there's one place that captures the spirit of Vermont, it's Basin Harbor, a resort whose repeat guests span generations – a true testament to the vacation experience at this lakefront lodge. Tucked into the woods of Vergennes, this enchanting resort offers pet-friendly cottages on the water as well as hotel guest rooms, and a variety of on-site dining options that include al fresco cookouts and lobster dinners on the North Dock. Lake Champlain activities range from narrated cruises and shipwreck tours to tubing and paddleboating, while land-based fun includes hiking, biking, tennis, croquet and badminton. Families especially love knockerball, a game similar to soccer where players are encased in inflatable spheres, as well as the Kids Club, with age-specific groups and activities. Bonus: The resort offers a variety of meal plans, including a Full American Plan that includes three meals daily.

Address: 4800 Basin Harbor Road, Vergennes, VT 05491

The Tyler Place Family Resort

Did you know there are all-inclusive resorts in Vermont? Perhaps the most well-known option is The Tyler Place Family Resort in Swanton. This classic resort offers a variety of cozy accommodations such as cottages with screened porches and kitchenettes – but not kitchens, since breakfast, lunch and dinner are included in nightly rates. Speaking of meals, The Tyler Place has a unique setup for dinner: Adults are encouraged to enjoy a quiet meal while children – who get to eat earlier – play with the newfound friends and counselors they meet via the resort's award-winning programs for kids. Together, families enjoy a seemingly endless array of activities, from banana boating and water skiing on Lake Champlain to biking around the property and exploring the gardens.

Note that The Tyler Place is open seasonally and, with the exception of Memorial Day and Labor Day weekends, requires a Saturday-to-Saturday reservation. Families rave about their stay at the resort, noting that it provides the perfect balance of alone time and family time.

Address: 175 Tyler Place, Swanton, VT 05488

Woodstock Inn & Resort

Courtesy of Woodstock Inn & Resort

The Woodstock Inn & Resort was purchased by Laurance and Mary Rockefeller in 1967, but its history traces back to a small tavern built in 1793. Today this inn is one of the best hotels in Vermont . The historic inn offers lovely guest rooms and suites (including pet-friendly options) that combine the Rockefellers' love of nature and historic preservation. Guests can also enjoy its distinct restaurants, including the award-winning Red Rooster, and a top-rated spa. The hotel also offers an activity center where you can arrange off-site excursions such as Orvis-endorsed fly fishing and mountain biking. Nearby, guests can visit the Billings Farm & Museum, enjoy winter sports at the Suicide Six ski area and stroll the quaint village of Woodstock.

Address: 14 The Green, Woodstock, VT 05091

Northeast Kingdom

Referred to by locals as the Northeast Kingdom for its natural splendor, this region in the northeast corner of Vermont borders Canada and is more remote than most places in the state (if you can believe it). In addition to its beauty, this area boasts charming dining and lodging options alongside opportunities for agritourism and ecotourism.

Explore the many vacation destinations along the Northeast Kingdom Byway, a 51-mile corridor that makes for a scenic driving tour. In the town of Burke, you'll find Lake Willoughby, Mount Pisgah and Burke Mountain Resort. Animal lovers may want to check out Saint Johnsbury, which has a lively downtown area and the one-of-a-kind Dog Chapel. Newport, a small city with lots of water activities on Lake Memphremagog, is another potential stop in the Northeast Kingdom. Not quite along the byway but still worth a visit is the town of Jay, home to Jay Peak Resort and the Pump House indoor water park (the only one of its kind in Vermont).

Marsh-Billings-Rockefeller National Historical Park

Marsh-Billings-Rockefeller National Park is the only national park in Vermont as well as the nation's only national park dedicated to conservation history and the evolving nature of land stewardship in the U.S. Both self- and ranger-guided tours of the park allow visitors to explore an on-site mansion featuring esteemed landscape artwork. You can traverse trails that lead to the Pogue, a 14-acre pond, and take in unparalleled views of the village of Woodstock and the surrounding countryside. It's the perfect place to enjoy a picnic lunch. The park also offers Junior Ranger programming for kids.

Address: 54 Elm St., Woodstock, VT 05091

Courtesy of Twin Farms

If you're looking for a romantic getaway in Vermont, book a stay at Twin Farms , one of the best Vermont hotels. At this intimate, all-inclusive hotel tucked into the countryside, guests have a choice of guest rooms, suites, cottages and the Farmhouse (whose four suites can be booked individually or together for groups), all of which are equal parts luxurious and cozy. Select cottages allow up to two dogs, with beds, blankets, treats, bowls and waste cans included in the additional pet fee.

Unique activities include bee tours, ax throwing and archery when the weather is warm; in the colder months, guests can enjoy options like ice fishing and skating. Of course, the Bridge House Spa (complete with a glass-brick steam room) is perfect any time of year, as is the seasonally inspired food and wine program. In fact, Twins Farms places an emphasis on the dining experience, with premium meal options including gourmet picnic lunches and private dinners in the on-site wine cellar. Previous guests can't say enough good things about Twin Farms, noting the service is beyond compare.

Address: 452 Royalton Turnpike, Barnard, VT 05031

The Essex, Vermont's Culinary Resort & Spa

Courtesy of The Essex, Vermont's Culinary Resort & Spa

The Essex is a culinary resort, which means you'll not only get to eat some of the best food you've ever had, but you'll also get to prepare it. At the resort's Cook Academy, hands-on classes – designed for all skill levels – span cake decorating, curated dinners, brunch, sushi rolling, and Vermont beer and cheese pairings. Of course, The Essex also offers phenomenal dining options, notably Junction: an interactive, award-winning restaurant. Other highlights of the resort include a spa, pool and championship tennis courts. Reviewers say they enjoyed their stay at The Essex and also appreciated its close proximity – about 10 miles – to Burlington.

Address: 70 Essex Way, Essex, VT 05452

The Coffee Roost

Courtesy of Vermont Artisan Coffee & Tea

Wake up to the smell of fresh coffee beans at The Coffee Roost , an Airbnb located above a working coffee roaster. The modernly furnished apartment, which is accessible via a private entrance, features a cozy queen bed and a spacious, fully equipped kitchen with bar seating. Guests appreciate the uniqueness of this Airbnb, along with its close proximity to Stowe and Waterbury.

Address: 11 Cabin Lane, Waterbury Center, VT 05677

You might also be interested in:

• The Top Things to Do in New Hampshire
• The Top Things to Do in Maine
• The Top Things to Do in Rhode Island
• The Top Things to Do in Brooklyn
• The Top Romantic Getaways in New Hampshire
• The Top Romantic Getaways in Maine
• The Top Boston Harbor Cruises
• Romantic Hotels Worth a Stay
• The Top Travel Backpacks

Tags: Travel , New England Vacations , US Vacations

World's Best Places To Visit

• # 1 South Island, New Zealand
• # 4 Bora Bora

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Wonderful Things to do in Southern Vermont in Winter (Getaway Guide)

Looking for all the amazing things to do in Southern Vermont in winter to help you plan your ultimate cold-weather getaway? We’ve got you covered. Southern Vermont offers an incredible array of activities to enjoy all year long, but there’s something extra special about this region in the winter months that makes it the perfect getaway on the East Coast.

In fact, we love having the option to drive up here from New York City and fell in love the very first time we went!

The abundance of snow that this region gets makes it ideal for all kinds of fun Southern Vermont attractions in the winter from hitting the slopes at the many ski resorts in the area, outdoor activities from ice skating to snowmobiling, staying in a cozy lodge or cabin, and of course, exploring the charming towns and roadside stops from cute shops to those charming covered bridges you can find scattered all throughout New England. 

So if you need a little inspiration or help planning your Southern Vermont winter vacation, this guide has you covered including great ideas for things to do in Southern Vermont in winter, where to visit, and where to stay!

Disclaimer: This post contains affiliate links.

Southern Vermont Winter Vacation Guide

Hit the slopes.

One of the most popular things to do in Southern Vermont during the winter is hitting the slopes! And that’s what we planned our entire visit around! Whether you want to ski, snowboard, or just admire the view from the ski lift (although you’ll need to get down the mountain somehow), there are many great Southern Vermont ski resorts to choose from.

Mount Snow is a popular mountain and ski resort in Southern Vermont located in the Green Mountains with the nearest towns being Dover and West Dover. This popular skiing spot has been operating as a ski resort since 1954! In fact, it was one of the first ski resorts to open on the East Coast! We did not know that when we planned our visit, we love little facts like that.

With over a dozen places to eat, multiple spas in the area, and three shops to buy snow gear, Mount Snow has everything you’ll need during a busy day on the slopes.

In addition, Mount Snow has many trails to choose from and is great for a wide range of skiers and snowboarders. So whether you’re a beginner or expert, you’ll be able to find a good place on Mount Snow! You’ll also be able to enjoy the incredible views from the top of the mountain and the ski lift. 

Since Mount Snow is such a popular Southern Vermont winter attraction, you can expect that the busiest time will be on the weekends. However, the lines typically move very quickly during the week! 

There are many places to stay on Mount Snow if you’re looking for more of a resort-style stay, otherwise, we mention a few great other options like the cabin we stayed at further on in this guide.

Carinthia Base Lodge is a great place to stay that has a public restaurant, outdoor fire pit, heated pool, sauna, and steam room!

Another great option is Grand Summit Resort Hotel . This is an excellent place for anyone who wants to spend time at the spa! 

Stratton Mountain 

Stratton Mountain is a ski resort and mountain with over 90 trails! Known as one of the most popular Southern Vermont attractions, Stratton Mountain ski resort is located in a small, cozy snow village with many shops and restaurants.

Although this destination is typically less crowded than Mount Snow, you can expect the lines to get slightly longer during the holiday season. 

Stratton Mountain is great for skiers and snowboarders of all levels since the mountain has many trails to choose from and isn’t as tall as the others nearby. If you visit this popular mountain, you can get skiing and snowboarding lessons, a guided tour of the village, access to an ice skating rink, and many other activities! 

We personally loved the ski and snow village here! It sort of reminded us of the village at Mammoth Mountain in Mammoth Lakes, California which is one of our all-time favorite ski resorts we’ve ever been to.

Bromley Mountain

If you want a serene, Southern Vermont winter vacation, Bromely Mountain in Peru, Vermont is a perfect option. Located in the Green Mountains, Bromley Mountain is a popular skiing and snowboarding destination that is a great spot if you want to avoid the level of tourism of the nearby popular mountains.

Bromley Mountain is known for its variety of terrains and alpine slides. People also love to camp in this area!

Keep in mind that Peru is a small, calm town that’s great for families looking for a serene winter vacation in Vermont. This is a destination you may want to book a cabin and relax a bit.

Visit Stratton Village 

So we’ve covered where to go skiing or snowboarding including Stratton Mountain. But now we are going to focus on the village at this popular Southern Vermont winter mountain resort.

Stratton Village is a great place to shop and dine next to Stratton Mountain! This charming, alpine village has many great family-friendly restaurants, markets, and shops.

The best dining options here include Fire Tower Restaurant & Tavern for an excellent apres experience, Mulligans for a classic meal, and Upper Standard for delicious coffee and baked goods. There are also many places to get craft beers and spirits!

Immerse yourself in Southern Vermont in winter even more by going shopping and getting a souvenir to remember your trip! At Stratton Village, there are many places to get snow gear and shop winter apparel at any of the branded sports shops from Burton to The North Face. 

In addition, you can find a market for local grocery items as well as a few gift shops selling branded and locally inspired souvenirs to remember your Southern Vermont winter vacation by!

Ice Skating 

A Southern Vermont winter vacation wouldn’t be complete without ice skating! Farm Road Estate , just minutes away from Mount Snow, is a great place to stay, dine, and ice skate!

Admission to this outdoor ice skating rink is only $5, and it is only another $5 to rent skates. In addition, they serve hot cocoa and other drinks all day long next to the rink!

Another great place to go ice skating is at Stratton Mountain’s ice skating rink ! This rink is located at The Mill House and is $15 for ice skating and $40-45 for ice skating lessons. So if you want a rink that has excellent music and cozy fires nearby, this is the perfect pick for you!

Snow Tubing 

Snow tubing is one of the most popular things to do in Southern Vermont in winter! One of the best places to go tubing is at Mount Snow . With up to eight lanes to choose from, Mount Snow has one of the biggest snow tubing hills in the entire state.

Located at the base of the mountain, this snow tubing area is known as “the magic carpet” and is an excellent activity for people of all ages. 

Another great place to go snow tubing is at the Coca-Cola Tube Park on Stratton Mountain! Here, you can find lift-serviced snow tubing with drinks and fire pits nearby. Located in the area known as the Sun Bowl, this spot has four high-speed lanes that are great for anyone five years and older who want to go snow tubing! 

One of the best ways to enjoy Southern Vermont in winter is to snowshoe! If you have your own snowshoes , you can hit up many trails on Mount Snow and in the Green Mountains.

One popular trail in the Green Mountains is the Bucklin Trail. If you go up to Killington Peak, you can get a great view of the mountains! This trail is just over 7 miles and is great if you want to spend a few hours outdoors that day. 

Another great trail in the Green Mountains is the White Rocks Recreation Area Trail. This trail is about 4 miles long and is on the Long Trail!

If you’re looking for a more leisurely day outside with less elevation, The Robert Frost Interpretive Trail is a great pick. This trail is in the Green Mountain National Forest, is less than a mile long, and is great for immersing yourself in nature!

If you need to rent snowshoes, Timber Creek is a great place to get them as well as ideas for where to go for the day if you’re unsure. Around here, there are many great trails that will immerse you in the woods!

Honestly, if you’re into winter adventures it might be worth exploring or investing in your own pair of snowshoes . I got my mom a pair a few Christmases ago and she LOVES them and uses them alot just around our family home. 

Other Fun Winter Outdoor Activities

Fat Bike Tires 

No Southern Vermont winter vacation is complete without a fat bike ride! Fat bikes are bikes with fat tires meant to be ridden in the snow and can also be used in the sand. Going on a fat bike ride is similar to mountain biking in the snow!

Many resorts in Southern Vermont offer fat bike rides, including The Nordic Center on Stratton Mountain. 

Cross Country Skiing

Cross-country skiing allows you to go up, down, and across various terrains without a ski lift or other assistance. One of the most popular places to go cross-country skiing in Southern Vermont is Timber Creek! Right across from Mount Snow, Timber Creek has a massive trail system and many hills that will take you through the forest. 

Snowmobile Tours

One of the best things to do in Southern Vermont in the winter is to take a snowmobile tour! Mount Snow offers snowmobile tours that start at two hours in length. This snowmobile tour takes you through the Green Mountain National Forest and the Vermont State trail system! 

Another great place to take a snowmobile tour is Stratton Mountain! Great for beginners and experienced snowmobilers, the tours on Stratton Mountain can be with a guide, and you can choose where to start the tour! You can also do mini 10-25 minute rides if you’re looking for something quicker and more affordable. 

Winter Hiking

One of the best ways to explore Southern Vermont in winter is to go on a winter hike! Stratton Mountain is a great place to hike in Southern Vermont. Stratton Mountain is Southern Vermont’s tallest peak, with the top of the mountain rising to almost 3,500 feet!

If you choose to go to the top of the mountain from the base, it will be a 6-mile round trip hike. Keep an eye out for the incredible views at the top!

Another great place to go on a winter hike is Lake Shaftsbury Park. Located in Shaftsbury, this 84-acre park has a one-mile trail that loops around the lake. This is a great hiking spot for families and is also known as a great picnic spot!

If you don’t have your own snowshoes or gear, get these great boot grips for snow and ice before your trip. These are great for traveling light and also perfect to just throw on your snow boots when you want to go on a hike or walk with an extra grip in the snow or ice.

Horse Drawn Winter Sleigh Ride

As someone who grew up with Belgian horses on my family farm, this one felt like some childhood nostalgia and a reminder of my Great Grandpa who would bring the horses out with their sleighs to get through the mud during maple syrup season. So when we discovered that Southern Vermont offered winter horse-drawn sleigh rides we were pretty intrigued!

One of the best places to take a horse-drawn winter sleigh ride is Friesians of Majesty . Located in the center of many Southern Vermont ski resorts, the Friesians of Majesty sleigh rides will take you through various parts of the forest and snow meadows! This stunning farm is surrounded by many mountains and lots of animal life!

Another great place that offers sleigh rides is Taylor Farm. These 45-minute sleigh rides can hold up to 12 adults and include a stop to enjoy hot cider and roast marshmallows by the fire!

Each sleigh comes with a wool blanket, and there are options to book a private ride for a romantic experience or for your family as well as group rides.

Visit Charming Towns

Wilmington 

Wilmington is a charming town in Vermont known for its unique shops, historic buildings, and many art galleries. If you’re into art galleries, be sure to check out one of their most popular: The Art of Humor Gallery !

Another great thing to do here is dine at one of the many unique restaurants. Dot’s is a classic American restaurant with a retro vibe that’s worth checking out at any time of the day! 

Wilmington also has many great beaches for having a picnic or admiring the many mountains. Boyd Hill Road Picnic Area and Woods Road Picnic Area are two scenic spots worth checking out. Don’t miss our complete guide for things to do in Wilmington for more ideas!

Bennington 

Bennington is a charming town in Delaware known for being the home of the Bennington Battle Monument , the largest human-made structure in the entire state! This charming town also has many museums, including the Bennington Museum , great for any art and history lover.

If you want to take a scenic drive, be sure to drive by Molly Stark Trail . If you’re more of a walker, be sure to walk underneath the Silk Road Covered Bridge that’s nearby as well!

Brattleboro 

Another charming town worth visiting is Brattleboro. This small town is home to the New England Center for Circus Arts and the Vermont Jazz Center in Windham County! 

Brattleboro also has an extensive network of trails just south of the Green Mountain National Forest. If you want to go hiking, this is a great spot!

There are also many great places to dine in Brattleboro. One of the most popular places to eat and grab a drink is Whetstone Station Restaurant and Brewery , which has a lovely patio with a great view!

Stop at Charming New England Shops

The Stratton Parsonage 

The Stratton Parsonage is a popular gift shop in Stratton, Vermont. This little shop is only a few minutes from Stratton Mountain and is known for its delicious, homemade maple syrup! You can also find other items like handmade soap and unique gifts.

Worn New England 

Worn New England is a collectibles store in Dover, Vermont. Here, you can find handcrafted country furniture and other items for your home!

Grafton Village Cheese 

Grafton Village Cheese is a cheese shop in Brattleboro, Vermont. On top of its delicious cheeses, this shop also sells jams, locally sourced wine, chocolates, and other goodies! This cheese shop is located on a beautiful farm filled with animals to pet and feed. There is also a stream nearby with picnic tables! 

Vermont Antique Mall 

The Vermont Antique Mall is an antique mall with over 130 unique vendors! Located in Quechee Gorge Village, this mall is a great place to find one-of-a-kind antique and handmade goods. So whether you want a delicious bottle of wine and cheese or toys for your kids, you’ll be able to find them here.

Hit Up the Breweries

One of the most popular Southern Vermont attractions is the excellent breweries! Something we discovered was that when we were experimenting trying craft brews at home, anytime we tried a Vermont beer we LOVED it. So we were naturally pretty excited to be able to sample more of the brews from the region and they did not disappoint. I don’t think either of us tried a beer or cider from Vermont we didn’t love.

If you want to add a brewery to your Southern Vermont winter vacation itinerary, check out a few mentioned below.

Snow Republic

Voted the best brewery in West Dover, Snow Republic is a brewery and taproom three miles away from Mount Snow. This brewery has a lovely patio and sometimes has live music outside!

Beer Naked Brewery

Beer Naked Brewery is a mountain top brewery in Marlboro, Vermont. This brewery serves a wide variety of ales and beers and is excellent for anyone who wants a great view!

Madison’s Brewing Company 

Madison’s Brewing Company is another brewery in Bennington, Vermont. This brewery and pub-style restaurant has award-winning beer and great food!

Take a scenic drive to Covered Bridges

One of the most popular Southern Vermont attractions is the covered bridges! Vermont has the most covered bridges per square male in America. In fact, there are over 100 covered bridges in the state!

We are big fans of covered bridges in New York , so naturally, we had fun trying to visit as many as we could on our Southern Vermont winter vacation.

Paper Mill Village Bridge 

Paper Mill Village Bridge is a covered bridge in Bennington that was built in 1889. This bridge carries Murphy Road across the Waloomsac River. If you want to stop and get closer to see the river, rest assured that there is parking on the north side of the bridge. This bridge is also very close to Silk Bridge and Henry Bridge! 

Kidder Hill Bridge 

Built in 1870, Kidder Hill Bridge is a covered bridge on the South edge of Grafton. This 67-foot long bridge carries Kidder Hill Road over the Saxton River.

Chiselville Bridge 

Chiselville Bridge is a covered bridge in Sunderland, Vermont. Built in 1870, the Chiselville Bridge is right over the Roaring Branch Brook. Many visitors like to go to the bottom of the ravine to see the bridge from below! If this interests you, keep in mind that there is parking nearby on the north side of the bridge.

Hermitage Road Covered Bridge 

The Hermitage Road Covered Bridge is a covered bridge that leads to the Hermitage Inn in West Dover, Vermont. Unlike many of the other old, historic-covered bridges nearby, this bridge is relatively new and was built in 2009!

Although it isn’t an old bridge, it has a unique vintage feel. This bridge crosses above a mountain stream called Cold Brook and is one of Vermont’s most photogenic landmarks right by Mount Snow.

Island Properties Covered Bridge

Island Properties Covered Bridge is a large covered bridge in Jamaica, Vermont. If you want to immerse yourself in nature and get a feel for the winter scenery, this is the perfect bridge to visit! This one is easy to miss, be sure to look as it’s located downhill and leads to homes. It’s fine to visit the bridge here, but don’t go exploring beyond the bridge as these are residences.

Scott Covered Bridge

The Scott Covered Bridge in Townshend, Vermont is one of the longest covered bridges in the state. Spanning 277 feet long, this large bridge goes over the West River. Visitors can stop at either side of the bridge to take photos and go inside to read more about the landmark’s history! 

Try New England Candlepin Bowling

One of the best things to do in Southern Vermont is to try candlepin bowling! New England candlepin bowling is a sport that is almost totally exclusive to New England!

Invented in 1880, this sport has remained a popular activity in the area. Instead of large bowling balls, candlepin bowling involves small balls held in one hand. These can then be thrown at the palindromic pins. These pins are the same upside down as they are right-side-up, making them easier to fall over. 

North Star Bowling is a popular bowling alley in Wilmington, Vermont. This spot has candlepin bowling, an arcade, mini-golf, and lots of food! 

Cozy up in a Cabin

One of the best things to do in Southern Vermont in the winter is cozy up in a gorgeous cabin during your getaway! There’s something so beautiful about the wintery landscape of New England and the dreamy Vermont cabin rentals available !

We stayed at this gorgeous A-Frame Alpine Cabin in West Dover which was the perfect base for a Southern Vermont winter vacation as the house can sleep up 7 people equipped with 5 beds, a full kitchen, 2 bathrooms, a cozy fireplace, and of course an outdoor hot tub surrounded by the forest.

The main bedroom and outdoor deck where the hot tub is located offers views of Mount Snow and is only a 5-minute drive from the ski resort which makes it a prime location in Southern Vermont in winter not to mention Stratton Mountain is only a 20-minute drive away too!

This dreamy A-Frame cabin is what winter vacation goals are made of. Better yet, you can rent out the place for a spacious romantic couples getaway like we did, a family-friendly getaway, or a friend’s trip! Book here on Vrbo.

Where to Stay in Southern Vermont

As already mentioned, you can’t go wrong with booking a dreamy little cabin during your Southern Vermont winter vacation! In addition to some cool individual properties like the one we mentioned above, each of the ski resorts has their own accommodation which makes for the perfect base while exploring the Southern Vermont attractions while being right next to the mountain to hit the slopes and other outdoor activities in the area!

Here are a few of the best resorts you can stay at during your Southern Vermont winter vacation and getaway.

Mount Snow Grand Resort

This ski-in ski-out mountain resort located at Mount Snow in Dover is the perfect base for your snow play on your Southern Vermont winter vacation! This resort also has a restaurant and bar on-site and a full-service spa for that much-needed relaxation after a long day on the slopes.

There is free parking on-site and you are less than a minute walk to the base of the mountain. Book here.

Black Bear Lodge in Stratton

Another great option for where to base during your getaway enjoying all the best things to do in Southern Vermont in winter is at Black Bear Lodge in Stratton. This ski lodge is a quick walk to Stratton Village and offers a winter shuttle to the mountain for those who want to hit the slopes.

They have an on-site restaurant and bar, complimentary continental breakfast, and an indoor hot tub and sauna for guests to soak in on those extra chilly days! This is one of the few resorts in the area that also has a pet-friendly policy too! Book here.

The Lodge at Bromley

Another great option for where to stay during your Southern Vermont winter vacation is at Bromley Ski Resort in Peru, Vermont. The Lodge at Bromley is located at Bromley Mountain in a retro 1970s style Swiss chalet that offers ski-in and ski-out rooms for those wanting to partake in Southern Vermont winter activities on the slopes!

This casual lodge is perfect for families and compared to the other ski resorts in the area this one is a bit more budget-friendly. Book here.

What to Pack for Your Southern Vermont Winter Getaway

You will want to come prepared with the proper packing essentials to ensure that you’re comfortable so you can enjoy all the beauty and best things to do in Southern Vermont in winter.

Let’s start with your attire, the key is to layer . You will want to make sure you have a warm winter jacket , we recommend bringing one that can handle wetter, snowy conditions so that your jacket keeps you dry. I have this North Face winter parka (they have a Men’s winter parka too) that kept me warm and dry. 

We also recommend having layering thermals for the really cold days. I have a thin, long-sleeved thermal I like to wear under my sweaters and Scott wore a long-sleeved thermal under his flannels that helped regulate his temperature. We like the Uniqlo brand of Heattech thermals because they include insulation without overheating or being bulky (plus use fabrics that are moisture-wicking, anti-static, and have odor control).

It goes without saying, make sure you also have a scarf, winter hat, gloves or mittens, and thick, warm socks . We really like the thick, warm socks from Roots . If you’re in snowy conditions you may want to pack extra socks. Sometimes snow sneaks in the top of your boots and it’s nice to have a fresh pair to change into halfway throughout the day or before going out for the evening.

One of the most important parts of your body to keep warm and dry are your feet! This is why we highly recommend having a quality pair of snow boots , because if you’re visiting Southern Vermont in winter, you’re going to be walking in snow!

We both are huge fans of Sorel boots , Scott has the Men’s Caribou Boot and I have a pair of their women’s snow boots as well which are great at keeping your feet dry and warm even on the wettest and coldest of winter days.

We love to pack some hand warmers . There are disposable, single-use ones that can come in handy (in the winter we always have a spare pack of these in Scott’s camera backpack and my purse). They even have toe warmers too in case your toes get extra chilly.

The holy grail of hand warmers though are rechargeable hand warmers . We LOVE ours and they last all day – just remember to charge again at night. I like to have it on the low setting in my winter jacket pocket to keep my phone warm too (since phone batteries hate the cold weather). We tried a few brands and not all rechargeable hand warmers are created equal – this is the one we have and it’s the best.

One thing I wish we had were ice grips for our snow boots . These are not only affordable and take up no space in your luggage, but they are also really great for walking on icy sidewalks and packed down snow, even with snow boots. 

What’s great is that if you don’t have snowboarding or skiing clothing or gear you can easily rent them at multiple shops around the resort at which you’ll be skiing/snowboarding at! 

Found this guide to all the best things to do in Southern Vermont in winter helpful? Bookmark for later and use this to plan your next trip!

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The 14 BEST Things to Do in Stowe, Vermont in Winter!

Stowe in Winter

Stowe claims a lot of ‘firsts’. 

It’s home to the first cross-country ski resort in the country and has the oldest long-distance hike. Its charming downtown is marked by the oldest non-denominational church in the United States .

So when you think of ski resorts on the East Coast, chances are Stowe is on your list.

I recently visited the Vermont town with friends on a group ski trip . I spent a week learning how to ski , trying out local breweries and soaking in the wintery outdoors – and loved every minute!

Since I’ve been back, I’ve recommended a winter getaway to Vermont to all my friends – even the non skiers!

Stowe was such a gorgeous New England town, and absolutely beautiful blanketed in snow and all decked out for the holidays , that it makes for the perfect winter weekend trip.

Here’s everything to know about visiting Stowe in winter!

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Stowe, Vermont

Stowe was settled in 1734 and originally a popular summer getaway spot in the 1800s.

City tourists, looking for a relaxing nature escape away from the urban heat, loved traveling to Stowe for its rolling hills and valleys. The Vermont town was famous for its wide green spaces and outdoor recreation.

But once skiing became popular in the 1930s, Stowe became a four season destination! 

I think the town offers a little something for everyone.

Whether you’re just learning to ski or seeking black diamonds, Stowe’s two mountains (Mt Mansfield and Spruce Peak) have you covered.

If your idea of skiing is three runs and calling it a day, well Stowe also has a great après-ski scene (probably one of the best on the East Coast)!

And if skiing isn’t your thing at all, no worries.

Stowe has great restaurants, relaxing day spas, tons of local breweries, distilleries and wineries, and a charming downtown filled with quaint shops.

Right off the main road is a huge recreational park, where you can snowshoe, hike, mountain bike or rock (and ice) climb. 

And best of all, if you visit in December, you’ll find the holiday spirit alive and well!

Getting to Stowe

Stowe is really popular for New Yorkers and Bostoners to visit. Coming from New York City, we had two options: drive or fly. 

Driving to Stowe

I drove up with friends and it was about a 6 hour drive from NYC.

We left first thing in the morning on Friday and arrived around 3:30pm, which was great timing to check into our Stowe rental house and grab some dinner.

Check here for rental cars for your dates .

Flying to Stowe

On the way back, I flew home out of Burlington International Airport (BTV) on United.

Burlington is roughly a 45 minute drive from Stowe. We noticed it was tricky to find a cab or ride share from Stowe to Burlington, so I’d try to avoid early morning or really late night flights if you don’t have your own rental car . 

The airport itself was compact and easy to navigate, and had lots of direct flight options to NYC.

Check flights and set fare alerts for Stowe here .

Where to Stay in Stowe

There are lots of great accommodation options in Stowe – it just depends what you’re in town for!

Here’s a quick overview of 4 hotels we recommend, but you can also check out our in-depth guide for where to stay in Stowe.

For longer stays or group trips, your best bet is VRBO .

There are tons of gorgeous mountain cabins , roomy townhomes and modern condos in Stowe that you can rent. Most are within a 5 to 10 minute drive of the ski resort and downtown area, so they’re really convenient and also affordable !

Browse VRBO rentals for your dates here .

The Lodge at Spruce Peak

If you’re visiting Stowe to ski or snowboard, stay here. It’s a ski-in, ski-out hotel located right on the mountain, with both traditional hotel rooms and sites as well as multi-bedroom mountain cabins for groups.

It has multiple restaurants and dining options right on-site, from a coffee shop to the Whistlepig which serves fire-baked raclette cheese and great cocktails.

There’s also lots of activities , like ice skating, snowshoeing, horseback riding and dog sledding!

Book rooms: Booking.com , Hotels.com | Check rates: TripAdvisor

Trapp Family Lodge

Want to feel like you’ve been transported to Europe?

Check out the Trapp Family Lodge , an Austrian-inspired hotel located just outside of downtown Stowe. The famous Von Trapp family (from the Sound of Music) settled in remote Vermont after leaving Austria in World War II… and eventually opened this boutique hotel !

They have everything from traditional hotel rooms to 3 bedroom villas and pet-friendly lodging options as well.

Plus, the hotel has tons of on-site activities every day, from cross-country skiing to snowshoeing and backcountry skiing. 

They even have a herd of Scotland cattle on their 2,500 acre property! I also recommend a visit to their Beerhall , where you can sip German beers and try schnitzel or a cheesy pretzel.

The Best Things to Do in Stowe

The Green Mountain town of Stowe sits nestled in a cozy valley, where the West Branch River flows into the Little River.

Surrounded by mountains in all directions, the Vermont village is home to country inns, charming restaurants and some of the finest outdoor adventures to be had in New England. It’s incredibly beautiful and a great place to get active in the cold winter months.

Here’s everything to do in Stowe in winter!

Ski at Stowe Mountain Resort

The obvious thing to do when visiting Stowe in winter?

Home to the highest peak in Vermont, Mt Mansfield has a vertical drop of 2,360 feet and is most known for its adrenaline packed ‘Front Four’ runs: Starr, Goat, National and Liftline. 

Skiing at Stowe Mountain Resort was the main reason we visited Stowe in December and it was a blast. There are 116 trails, backcountry ski options and a cute après-ski village. 

Read more about planning a Stowe ski trip here , or what it’s like skiing at Stowe as a beginner here .

Stowe Ski Trip Video

I vlogged our Stowe ski trip!

If you want to see what it’s really like visiting Stowe in December, around Christmas time, then check out the video on Youtube here , or watch below.

I included an overview of our house rental, taking lessons, downtown Stowe and all the restaurants we tried during our trip!

Soak in the Apres Ski Scene at Spruce Village

Enjoy skiing but  love  après-ski?

Then you’ll love the cute après-ski scene at Spruce Village. Stowe Mountain Resort is composed of two mountains, Mt Mansfield (for the intermediate/advanced skiers) and Spruce Peak (for the beginner skiers).

The base of Spruce Peak is also home to one of the best après-ski options on the East Coast. It has tons of restaurants, bars and coffee shops to grab a bite after a long day on the slopes.

There’s also the luxury ski-in, ski-out hotel The Lodge at Spruce Peak , a playground for kids and ice skating rink (free if you bring your own skates).

For shopping, there are a couple sportswear stores and even a wine cellar for wine tastings. 

Explore Downtown Stowe

Downtown Stowe is really cute.

It frequently tops ‘Best New England Town’ lists and even in winter, is incredibly beautiful. Surrounded by a dense forest and set at the base of Mt Mansfield, downtown Stowe has a ton of cute shops, restaurants and hotels.

It’s a pretty compact village too, with one main street. The houses here are painted in various pastel colors and look like storybook cottages straight out of a fairytale.

Look out for Stowe Community Church, a gorgeous white church in the center of downtown Stowe. You can’t miss it – the church tower rises 175 feet high, serving as a guidepost for downtown’s main strip.

The historic building is also one of the oldest non-denominational churches in the country and you can even stop by for Sunday service. 

If you visit Stowe in December, you’ll see the town all decorated for Christmas too!

Go Shopping

Stowe’s downtown center is home to a number of quaint boutiques. Here’s a couple that I loved visiting:

Stowe Mercantile – a cute trading post selling everything from old fashioned candy to toys and kitchen products.

Try grabbing some wine and cheese to enjoy in your hotel room or have a winter picnic ! 

Shaw’s General Store – both touristy tees and sweatshirts and warm winter boots, sweaters, gloves and hats

Bear Pond Books – a cute bookstore inside an Old Depot, with tons of books (including Vermont focused ones!)

Tour The Alchemist

Vermont is famous for its breweries, and one of the state’s most legendary beers was created in Stowe!

Local favorite The Alchemist is a microbrewery specializing in the Heady Topper, a double IPA. The brewery offers tours of its new solar-powered building, with an in-depth overview of their beer production process and tastings!

Personally I thought the Heady Topper was a bit bitter.. but they have a number of other brews that you can also try!

If you love craft beers, check out my post on Stowe’s best breweries.

Visit Von Trapp Brewery & Bierhall

Another great brewery to check out while you’re in Stowe is the Von Trapp Brewery!

Created by the Von Trapp family (made famous in the  Sound of Music)  and located right near the Von Trapp Family Lodge, the brewery is a beautiful space to sit back, relax and grab a bite.

The bierhall was inspired by the Augustiner-Brautheir Bierhall in Salzburg and bring a bit of Europe to Vermont. Instead of focusing on IPAs like most places in town, the Von Trapp Brewery offers a selection of Bavarian beers. 

You can also buy beers to go!

Make sure to try one of their homemade German pretzels and beer cheese dip if you visit. 

Shop at Stowe Craft

Downtown Stowe has a number of art galleries and craft shops, all featuring unique products made from local artists. 

If you’re looking for a unique gift, make sure to check these out!

Have a Tasting at Stowe Cider

I prefer hard cider to beer, so one afternoon we went for a tasting at Stowe Cider.

The warehouse-like facility produces Stowe’s homegrown cider and offers tons of options, with over 18 taps!

We grabbed a hard cider flight and sat back to enjoy a live band performing.

It’s a great casual spot in town.

Walk Through Stowe Recreation Path

Looking to stretch your legs?

Go for a leisurely walk down Stowe Recreation Path, a 5.3 mile greenway that winds all through town. The public path is completely paved and easy to walk on, and quite convenient to get to.

It starts right in historic Stowe Village and ends at a beautiful covered bridge.

Take a Day Trip to Waterbury

The nearby town of Waterbury is only a ~30 minute drive from downtown Stowe and has a similar, quaint downtown village filled with shops and restaurants.

Grab dinner at Prohibition Pig and walk through main street!

Visit the Ben & Jerry Ice Cream Factory

While you’re in Waterbury, also stop by the Ben & Jerry’s Ice Cream Factory.

You can tour the factory and learn about how founders Ben Cohen and Jerry Greenfield created their eponymous ice cream company out of an abandon gas station in Burlington back in 1978. 

Behind the factory, there’s a cute mock cemetery holding the graves of flavors that have been discontinued and laid to rest. 

Make sure to grab a few scoops at their scoop shop too! It’s never too cold out for ice cream ;)

Explore Helen Day Art Center

If you love art, check out this community art center in the heart of Stowe village. It has a rotating mix of both traditional and avant-garde work.

Ride the Stowe Gondola

Looking for a great view?

Ride the famous Stowe Gondola, which takes you to the top of Mount Mansfield! The gondola rises 3,625 feet above elevation to the top of Vermont’s highest view. And while you’re there, you can stop for lunch at Cliff House restaurant or grab dessert at The Waffle. 

The gondola is open from December 24th to April 3rd when weather permits.

Spend an Afternoon at the Vermont Ski & Snowboard Museum

Get a better understanding of the history of downhill and cross-country skiing and the birth of snowboarding at this quaint museum.

Located in the 1818 Old Town Hall, the Vermont Ski & Snowboard museum chronicles the evolution of winter sports in Vermont through vintage skis, snowboards, memorabilia, art and photographs. 

It also hosts the Hall of Fame Induction each year! 

What to Pack for Stowe in Winter

Vermont can get pretty cold in winter. During our trip, the temperature ranged from 5 to 30 degrees and it snowed frequently.

So make sure to pack warm winter clothes, like well-insulated snow boots , wool sweaters (with at least 40% wool content) and top + bottom base layers . 

Amazon Winter Fashion

I also did a livestream on Amazon Live chatting all about dressing for the cold.

I talk about winter fashion essentials, ski gear and cute (but affordable) ski clothes that you can shop on Amazon! Watch a recap of the video here .

Make sure to follow my Amazon shop page to join future livestreams!

Our winter getaway to Stowe was so much fun! It snowed several times on our trip, blanketing the Green Mountain town in a carpet of powdery white snow.

Have you visited Stowe in winter? Let me know your tips and favorite spots in the comments! 

  Read More:   in our vermont travel series:

Where to Stay in Stowe: Boutique Hotels, Charming Inns + B&Bs!

Where to Eat in Stowe

A Guide to Shopping in Stowe

The Best Breweries in Stowe

Skiing in Stowe

10 Tips to Plan the Ultimate Ski Trip to Stowe

Skiing in Stowe, Vermont (Youtube Vlog)

My First Time Skiing in Vermont

The Best Stowe Ski Resorts

Ski Trip Packing Tips

What to Wear Skiing : Packing List Must Have's

The Best Ski Pants for Women (Stylish & Functional)

The Best Men's Ski Pants

The Best Ski Clothes on Amazon (Livestream)

The Cutest Ski Sweaters

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10 Most Beautiful Snow-Covered Small Towns To Visit In Vermont This Winter

These snow-covered towns in Vermont are some of the best places to visit in New England in the winter for a snowy vacation!

• Woodstock: A charming town in Vermont that becomes even more magical in winter with snow-covered landscapes, ski resorts, cozy resorts, and holiday experiences.
• Stowe: A picturesque town with abundant snowfall, perfect for capturing beautiful scenery and enjoying adventurous activities like skiing, snowboarding, dog sledding, and more.
• Montpelier: Despite the challenges of snow clearing, Montpelier offers the excitement of sliding down snowy slopes, cozying up by a fireplace, and visiting ski resorts, skating rinks, and winter festivals.

Every season of the year is exciting, especially in a place like Vermont where spring and summer come with gorgeous bloom and fall comes with incredible autumn scenery. In winter, this state also comes alive in a different way by becoming a winter wonderland filled with snow-covered small towns that offer exciting winter activities.

There are many incredible places to visit in New England in winter , but these beautiful snowy towns in Vermont are at the top of the list.

These Are The Most Beautiful Snow-Covered Cities To Visit In The U.S. This Winter

10 woodstock.

Those who hate winter will fall in love with the season after visiting Woodstock. Besides being one of the most charming towns in America on a normal day, Woodstock becomes particularly charming in winter with its laid-back atmosphere, snow-covered landscape, and opportunities for exciting activities.

Woodstock is near some of the best ski resorts in Vermont like the Saskadena Six Downhill Ski Area and Killington Mountain Resort, where activities like skiing and snowboarding can be enjoyed. It also has so many cozy resorts and cabins, indoor ice rinks, and the 84-acre Silver Lake, which is great for ice fishing. Plus, those who visit in December will also enjoy an exciting holiday experience.

• Top winter attractions in Woodstock: Silver Lake, Saskadena Six, Killington resort

Winter in Stowe is always magical , as the town receives an average annual snowfall of 222 inches . It's one of the most beautiful small towns in Vermont in the winter when the snow falls, so grab a camera to capture the lovely scenery first and get ready for an unforgettable adventure by enjoying a hot meal and renting some winter equipment. With everything set, start from the Stowe Mountain Resort and get exhausted at the 116 ski trails.

Next, head over to the Spruce Peak Village Center to skate on the outdoor ice rink and then go dog sledding, snowmobiling, or fat biking on Stowe’s gorgeous snow-covered landscape. To top it off, be sure to sip wine or craft beer at one of the town’s breweries and then relax at one of the wellness centers and spas in Stowe.

• Top winter attractions in Stowe: Stowe Mountain Resort, Spruce Peak Village Center

8 Montpelier

In Montpelier, while the snowy season can mean mornings of clearing out snow and having vehicles stuck on the road, it also entails afternoons of sliding down pristine white snow at nearby ski resorts and evenings of cozying beside a fireplace with friends and family. This makes the chilly season such an exciting time to be in Montpelier, which is one of the most beautiful snow-covered small towns in Vermont to visit in the winter.

Montpellier is near some of the best ski resorts in Vermont like Sugarbush and Bolton Resort. It also has cozy restaurants and cafes where winter lovers can enjoy hot meals or drinks. Plus, there are plenty of winter attractions like skating rinks, and events like the Ice on Fire Winter Festival .

• Top winter attractions in Montpelier: Central Vermont Memorial Civic Center, Sugarbush Resort and Bolton Valley Resort

7 Bennington

Winter is arguably the most beloved season in Bennington, as it is relaxing, beautiful, and full of things to see and do. In addition to its abundance of snow, this small town also offers great shopping as well as cultural and historic attractions, as it is one of the oldest towns in Vermont.

Winter lovers can go skiing at the Greenberg Headwaters Park or go snowshoeing on the Bald Mountain Trail or the Robert Frost Trail. History lovers in this town can check out the Bennington Battle Monument, which stands as the tallest man-made building in Vermont and commemorates the battle of Bennington. The Battle of Bennington was one of the battles of the American Revolution that ended with victory for the American forces, and this makes the monument worth visiting any time.

• Top winter attractions in Bennington: Greenberg Headwaters Park, Bald Mountain Trail, Robert Frost Trail

10 Most Beautiful Snow-Covered Towns To Visit In The U.S. This Winter

6 middlebury.

Another one of the best small Vermont towns in the winter is Middlebury, which welcomes visitors with a charming New England atmosphere and an abundance of snow that creates the stage for endless skiing and snowboarding.

After lodging in one of the town’s cozy accommodations and savoring a hot meal at a local restaurant, visitors can hit the ski slopes at Middlebury Snow Bowl for some exciting winter adventures. For more things to do, grab a drink at the Drop-in Brewing Company, take a walk in Downtown Middlebury for some more sights, and also shop in one of its boutiques or bookstores.

• Top winter attractions in Middlebury: Middlebury Snow Bowl, Drop-in Brewing Company

5 Manchester

During winter in Manchester, the snow descends heavily on this town’s forests, streets, colonial-style homes, and almost every other thing, creating magical scenery and setting the stage for lots of outdoor ventures. Winter activities including skiing, snowboarding, snowshoeing, and snowboarding, are offered in the town.

In addition, there are opportunities for cross-country skiing and dog sledding. For those who want indoor activities, the Riley Rink is available for indoor ice skating and the Northshire Bookstore is available for book shopping.

• Top winter attractions in Manchester: Riley Rink, Stratton Viking Nordic Center, Prospect Mountain

Ski Vermont's Best: 10 Unmissable Destinations For Skiing Enthusiasts

4 killington.

There’s not a dull moment in Killington in winter, not with all the incredible winter photos one can capture and the long list of winter activities that can be done on the snow-covered landscape. One of the best winter destinations in Vermont, the town is home to the famous Killington Resort, which offers more than 1,500 acres of skiable terrain for skiing and snowboarding.

The town also has facilities and spots that set the stage for snow tubing, dog sledding, snowmobiling, snowshoeing, cross-country skiing, and more. While the winter activities are its main offerings, Killington also invites non-skiers to enjoy an unforgettable vacation as it has breweries, spas, restaurants, bars, cozy accommodations, and everything needed to make a winter vacation in Vermont comfortable and memorable.

• Top winter attractions in Killington: Killington Resort, Pico Mountain Ski Resort

3 Wilmington

Wilmington is another one of the most beautiful winter towns in Vermont with snow; it receives one of the highest snowfall in Vermont annually, and that’s just a reassurance that a winter vacation here is sure to be exciting. While the snow transforms the town into a winter wonderland, many attractions have been put in place within and near the town to keep visitors busy.

Perhaps the most popular winter attraction near this town is the Mount Snow Resort, which boasts 86 trails and 20 lifts. In addition, the town has designated spots for snow tubing, and its downtown area is filled with galleries and restaurants that offer delicious eats and hot drinks.

• Top winter attractions in Wilmington: Mount Snow Resort

Grafton is arguably the best winter destination in Vermont. This is one of the most beautiful towns in Vermont with snow in the winter, and it welcomes visitors with a cozy atmosphere and a quaint beauty that’s amplified when snow descends on its landscape in the coldest season.

Whether one is seeking a beautiful Vermont winter vacation filled with exciting outdoor activities like skiing and snowboarding or a relaxing vacation spent at indoor spots, Grafton has something for everybody. The best thing to do in Grafton in winter, however, is to rent some winter equipment at Grafton Outdoor Center and then hit the trails.

• Top winter attractions in Grafton: Grafton Outdoor Center

1 East Burke

With an annual average snowfall of 217 inches , East Burke passes for one of the most beautiful winter destinations in Vermont. With Burke Mountain Resort nearby, visitors to this town in winter will be tempted to go outdoors and play on all that snow.

While on the mountain resort, visitors will enjoy gorgeous views of the surrounding snow-covered landscape while being presented with opportunities for fat biking, skiing, snow tubing, snowmobiling, cross-country skiing, ice climbing, and ice fishing. And even though it is small, East Burke has all the necessary facilities visitors need to stay comfortable including numerous hotels, restaurants, and bars.

• Top winter attractions in East Burke: Burke Mountain Resort