How to Plan the Perfect Family-Friendly Vacation in Vermont
Vermont is a dream destination for families looking to escape the hustle and bustle, enjoy outdoor adventures, and create unforgettable memories together. Known for its natural beauty, charming towns, and abundant activities for all ages, Vermont has something for everyone—from scenic hikes and lake days to cozy cabin stays in quaint villages. Planning the perfect family-friendly Vermont vacation is easier than ever, and Stayclass is here to help you find the best spots to relax, play, and explore with your loved ones. Let’s dive into the essentials to make your Vermont getaway a seamless and memorable experience.
1. Choose the Best Time of Year for Your Family Vacation
Vermont offers unique experiences in every season, so consider what your family enjoys most to decide on the ideal time to visit.
- Summer: Perfect for lake activities, hiking, and exploring Vermont’s natural beauty under sunny skies. Families can spend days swimming in crystal-clear lakes, hiking scenic trails, or enjoying fun local events and farmers' markets.
- Fall: Known for its breathtaking foliage, fall in Vermont is ideal for families wanting to explore scenic byways, visit apple orchards, and immerse in autumn festivities.
- Winter: A winter wonderland for families who love skiing, snowboarding, or cozying up in a cabin. Vermont’s ski resorts offer family-friendly slopes and plenty of off-the-slope activities like snowshoeing and tubing.
- Spring: Maple sugaring season and blooming landscapes make spring a unique and beautiful time to explore Vermont’s countryside with the family.
Vermont Vacaction Tip: Vermont shines year-round! Consider the activities your family loves and choose your season accordingly.
2. Pick a Family-Friendly Vermont Destination
Each town in Vermont has its own charm and family-friendly amenities. Here are a few to consider:
- Stowe: Known for its scenic mountain views and outdoor recreation, Stowe is perfect for adventurous families. Take a gondola ride up Mount Mansfield, explore the Recreation Path, or hit the slopes in winter.
- Browse Stowe cabins for your stay
- Woodstock: For a quieter, more laid-back vibe, Woodstock offers plenty of kid-friendly attractions, like the Billings Farm & Museum and Quechee Gorge. It’s a great spot for families who enjoy history and nature.
- Find the perfect stay in Woodstock!
- Lake Champlain Islands: Summer on Lake Champlain is an unforgettable experience. Families can enjoy beach days, rent kayaks, and visit local vineyards and orchards.
- Book a cottage on Lake Champlain
- Killington: A favorite for families in winter, Killington offers ski lessons, snow tubing, and plenty of off-mountain activities. In warmer months, explore the scenic trails and bike paths.
- Explore Killington vacation homes
- Manchester: Known for its mix of luxury and outdoor charm, Manchester offers easy access to Bromley and Stratton Mountains, shopping, and cultural sites like the Southern Vermont Arts Center.
- Book a Manchester vacation rental for your next trip to Vermont
3. Plan Activities for All Ages
Vermont is rich in activities that both kids and adults can enjoy, from hands-on learning experiences to outdoor adventures.
- Outdoor Fun: Hiking, fishing, and swimming are family staples in Vermont’s state parks. Try the gentle trails at Mount Philo State Park, perfect for little legs, or head to Lake Willoughby for a relaxing beach day.
- Farm Visits & Petting Zoos: Vermont is home to many family-friendly farms. Billings Farm in Woodstock and Shelburne Farms on Lake Champlain are great for animal interactions and farm experiences.
- Museums and Historic Sites: Keep kids engaged with hands-on exhibits at the Montshire Museum of Science in Norwich or learn about Vermont’s history at the Bennington Battle Monument.
- Maple Sugaring in Spring: Visiting during maple sugaring season? Take a family tour of a sugarhouse to learn about Vermont’s famous syrup, complete with tastings.
Pro Tip: Balance downtime with adventure by scheduling one major activity each day, leaving room for relaxation and flexibility, because that is what Vermont is all about!
4. Find Family-Friendly Accommodations
The right accommodation can make or break a family vacation. Stayclass offers a curated selection of Vermont vacation rentals perfect for families, from spacious homes near lakes and mountains to cozy cabins with all the amenities needed for a comfortable stay.
- Space and Privacy: Look for rentals with multiple bedrooms, a fully-equipped kitchen, and common areas to give everyone room to relax after a day of adventure.
- Amenities for Kids: Some rentals come with kid-friendly perks like game rooms, large yards, and nearby playgrounds or trails. Don’t forget to check if essentials like Wi-Fi, washer/dryer, and safety features are included.
- Pet-Friendly Options: Bringing along a furry family member? Many Stayclass rentals welcome pets, so the whole family can enjoy Vermont’s beauty together.
Finding the perfect vacation rental: Check out rentals with outdoor fire pits or fireplaces for cozy family evenings roasting marshmallows and sharing stories. Envision what your family might enjoy the most when browsing Vermont vacation rentals.
5. Pack Smart for Vermont’s Climate
Vermont’s climate varies significantly by season, so packing smart will keep everyone comfortable and prepared.
- Winter: Layer up! Bring waterproof outerwear, gloves, hats, and warm boots. If you’re planning to ski, pack or rent gear for everyone.
- Summer: Pack swimsuits, sunscreen, bug spray, and plenty of layers. Vermont’s summer nights can be chilly, even after a warm day.
- Fall & Spring: Include layers, as temperatures can vary. Waterproof boots are a must for fall hikes and spring outings.
Packing Tip: Don’t forget to pack extra layers and gear for all types of weather. A cozy fleece and rain jacket go a long way in Vermont! And remember, most of Vermont’s roads are dirt, so keep that in mind when selecting footwear.
6. Plan for Dining and Local Cuisine
Vermont is famous for its farm-to-table dining and local food scene, with plenty of family-friendly restaurants and markets to explore.
- Family-Friendly Restaurants: Vermont towns have a wide variety of eateries where kids are welcome. Look for local favorites that serve Vermont specialties like maple-glazed dishes, apple cider, and farm-fresh veggies.
- Picnics and Local Markets: Farmers' markets are fantastic for stocking up on fresh, local foods and Vermont specialties like cheese and maple syrup. Enjoy a family picnic with locally sourced treats and a view!
- Cooking in Your Rental: Take advantage of your Vermont vacation rental’s kitchen by cooking some family meals together. It’s a fun, budget-friendly way to enjoy Vermont’s fresh ingredients.
Vermont Tip: Check out local markets and farm stands for ingredients to make family-favorite dishes using Vermont-grown produce.
Why Choose Stayclass for Your Family Getaway?
Stayclass is Vermont’s own vacation rental site, featuring unique, family-friendly stays you won’t find anywhere else—all booking fee-free. With a range of properties across Vermont’s most charming towns, Stayclass helps you find the perfect home base for making unforgettable family memories. So go ahead, and book your own Vermont vacation rental now!