When it comes to fall, no place in America captures the magic of changing leaves quite like Vermont.
The Green Mountain State transforms into a fiery canvas of reds, oranges, and yellows that looks straight out of a painting.
While almost every corner of Vermont shines in autumn, a handful of towns truly stand out as the “best of the best.”
From postcard-perfect villages to vibrant small cities, these destinations offer the perfect mix of foliage, charm, and experiences that will make your fall trip unforgettable.
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Stowe: The Quintessential Fall Escape
If there’s one town that defines fall in Vermont, it’s Stowe.
Nestled at the base of Mount Mansfield, the state’s tallest peak, Stowe is surrounded by rolling hills and winding roads that explode with color in late September and early October.
The town itself feels like it was built for autumn. Imagine walking past white steepled churches, cozy cafés serving hot cider, and boutique shops lit with warm golden light.
The Stowe Recreation Path is a must-do—this scenic trail lets you cycle or stroll alongside rivers and fields framed by blazing foliage.
Don’t miss the drive up Smugglers’ Notch, a narrow mountain pass lined with cliffs and trees.
For photographers, the auto toll road up Mount Mansfield offers sweeping shots of valleys bathed in peak foliage.
Pro Tip: Visit during the week if possible—Stowe is popular, and weekends can get crowded.
Woodstock: Classic Vermont Charm in Autumn
Woodstock looks like it was designed to appear on a postcard.
With its iconic covered bridges, white picket fences, and maple-lined streets, it’s one of the most photographed towns in all of New England.
Local farms and markets bring the season alive with pumpkin patches, apple cider doughnuts, and harvest festivals.
Take a stroll through Billings Farm & Museum to see working farm life against a backdrop of autumn fields.
Pro Tip: Head to Quechee Gorge, just a short drive away, for sweeping views of Vermont’s “Little Grand Canyon” surrounded by fall foliage.
Burlington: Lakefront Foliage Meets Urban Vibe
Not every fall escape has to be a quiet village. Burlington, Vermont’s largest city, proves that urban life and autumn beauty can go hand in hand.
Here, Lake Champlain steals the show. In fall, the water reflects the fiery hills of the Adirondacks on one side and Vermont’s Green Mountains on the other.
Grab a coffee and take a walk along the Burlington Waterfront Park, where the crisp lake breeze meets the scent of fallen leaves.
Downtown Burlington has a lively atmosphere with farm-to-table restaurants, craft breweries, and plenty of art.
Don’t miss tasting the season’s specialties—pumpkin ales, cider doughnuts, and Vermont cheddar from the local markets.
Within minutes, you can escape to scenic drives like Route 7 or the nearby islands of Lake Champlain for breathtaking leaf-peeping adventures.
The Green Mountain Byway, which connects Burlington to Stowe, is another must-drive route in fall.
Pro Tip: Time your visit around sunset—the sky over Lake Champlain glows pink and orange, perfectly complementing the fall colors.
Manchester: Luxury Meets Leaf-Peeping
For those who like their fall foliage with a touch of luxury, Manchester is the spot. Tucked in southern Vermont, this town blends upscale shopping with outdoor adventures.
Designer outlets sit next to cozy inns, while the surrounding mountains create a spectacular autumn backdrop.
Manchester is also a hub for outdoor lovers. Hike Mount Equinox for panoramic views that stretch across Vermont’s patchwork of fall colors.
If you prefer something more relaxed, go fly-fishing in the Battenkill River.
Hidden gems like Dorset, just a short drive away, offer quieter foliage experiences with historic inns and charming village greens.
This mix of rustic charm and sophistication makes Manchester one of Vermont’s most unique fall getaways.
Pro Tip: Stay at a historic inn—Manchester is home to some of Vermont’s most charming lodges, and fall evenings by the fireplace are hard to beat.
Middlebury: A College Town with Scenic Surroundings
Middlebury may be a small college town, but in autumn, it feels like a hidden gem.
Just steps away, Otter Creek flows past a historic waterfall and a covered bridge—an iconic New England scene that comes alive in fall.
Beyond town, the Green Mountain National Forest offers endless trails for hiking and leaf-peeping, including the Robert Frost Trail.
Middlebury is also a great spot for foodies. Local cheese, apple cider, and craft beer are everywhere, giving your fall trip an extra layer of flavor.
For something unique, join a cider-making tour or sample the region’s growing number of small distilleries.
Pro Tip: Visit the Middlebury Tasting Trail—a fun way to sample Vermont’s best breweries, cideries, and distilleries while enjoying the autumn countryside.
Montpelier: A Small Capital with Big Fall Colors
The downtown area is filled with cozy cafés, indie bookstores, and local bakeries—perfect for a crisp autumn morning.
Step just outside the city and you’ll find quiet hiking trails and backroads with incredible views, like the Hubbard Park Tower which overlooks the capital surrounded by foliage.
Seasonal festivals also add to Montpelier’s fall charm, from harvest markets to maple-inspired events. The mix of culture and color makes Montpelier a great stop between northern and southern Vermont.
Pro Tip: Try the maple latte at one of Montpelier’s cafés—it’s a local favorite and the perfect companion for a chilly fall day.
Tips for Planning Your Vermont Fall Trip
- Best Time to Visit: Peak foliage typically hits between late September and mid-October, but it varies by region—northern mountains turn first, while southern valleys peak later.
- Scenic Drives: Route 100 is Vermont’s most famous foliage route, but don’t miss the Green Mountain Byway, Molly Stark Byway, and Northeast Kingdom drives.
- Book Early: Hotels, inns, and farm stays fill up fast during foliage season, so plan your stay well in advance.
- Outdoor Adventures: Beyond scenic drives, Vermont in fall is perfect for apple picking, corn mazes, hayrides, canoeing, and ziplining through the forest canopy.
- Avoid Crowds: Weekdays are quieter than weekends—especially in popular towns like Stowe and Woodstock.
Conclusion
Vermont in fall is more than just pretty leaves—it’s an experience that blends nature, charm, and culture in the most magical way. Whether you’re sipping cider in Woodstock, hiking in Stowe, or watching the sun set over Lake Champlain in Burlington, these towns truly represent the best of the best.
So pack your sweaters, grab your camera, and get ready to see autumn at its finest. Vermont is waiting.
Read More: Best of the Best Berry Picking Places in Vermont for September
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