When some people think about Vermont, they might picture skiing down picturesque slopes and unwinding their tired legs after a long day on the mountain … only to do it all over again the next day.
As a lifelong New Englander, though, I believe that the time before the snowy season is often overlooked. I prefer to head up north when the leaves are changing from green to fiery shades of red, orange, and yellow.
Once I’m in the Green Mountain State, my favorite town is Stowe, a dreamy hub for leaf-peeping, everything maple-flavored, and great autumn vibes.
Stowe is a quick trip from other parts of the Northeast
Located in northern Vermont, Stowe is the perfect escape for a romantic getaway or group trip, especially if you’re on the East Coast.
For example, it’s just a three-hour drive from Boston and six hours from New York City. The town is also less than an hour from Burlington International Airport.
I live four hours away in Rhode Island, and prefer driving so I can stop at cute pit stops throughout Vermont.
My personal favorite is the Vermont Country Store in Rockingham, which. This iconic gift shop sells nostalgic penny candy, local cheeses from nearby farms, and — of course — the best maple syrup.
My perfect weekend includes a gondola ride, a corn maze, and a downtown stroll
Situated at the bottom of Mount Mansfield, Stowe has a quaint downtown, perfect for strolling the streets with a hot pumpkin latte in hand. There’s no shortage of cute shops and cozy cafés.
The town center is walkable, but Stowe’s other attractions — like the famous Gondola Skyride, and my favorite corn maze — are a quick drive away.
Just a few miles from Stowe’s downtown, the Percy Farm Corn Maze allows groups to get lost in the rows of corn. If you’re lucky, you’ll even see some baby cows grazing.
I also firmly believe that a fall trip isn’t complete without a red gondola ride up the mountain. Sitting back and taking in the kaleidoscope of colorful fall foliage while gliding through the air is truly unlike anything else.
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The peak of the mountain provides the perfect photo-op. Once you’re at the top, swing by the concessions stand for a waffle covered in chocolate syrup.
My favorite restaurant is the iconic von Trapp Brewing Bierhall
After exploring the top of Mount Mansfield and soaking in the views, it’s time to decide what’s for lunch.
The von Trapp Brewing Bierhall, also located outside the town center, offers quality brews and Austrian-influenced dishes — and yes, it’s run by a member of the von Trapp family who inspired “The Sound of Music.”
I love the pretzels with house mustard, which is also available in cute mason jars for purchase in their gift shop. Additionally, its bratwurst, knackwurst, and bauernwurst with all the fixings is the perfect entrée to share if you’ve never tried German sausages.
It’s easy to access other quaint, nearby towns, like Killington and Waterbury
One of the best parts of Stowe is its proximity to other postcard-worthy fall destinations.
Only 15 minutes away in Waterbury Center, Cold Hollow Cider Mill is a historic dairy farm that’s been owned by the same family for generations. Browsing the store’s aisles will leave you hungry as you watch the team press apples and fry doughnuts.
Drive another 10 minutes south, and you can indulge in Vermont flavors at Ben & Jerry’s and Cabot Creamery in Waterbury. Pro tip: Make sure to book a reservation in advance for the factory tour at Ben & Jerry’s, as it sells out fast.
If you’re open to venturing a little further, about an hour south of Waterbury is Killington, a famed ski town that’s beautiful in the fall. Here, you can take another gondola ride up Killington Peak at Killington Ski Resort and enjoy a cocktail at the top.
For a romantic dinner, visit the Foundry at Summit Pond — I love its intimate s’mores dessert, which is served alongside a small fire to roast at the table.