What to Do in Vermont: A Season-by-Season Guide for Your Perfect Vacation
Planning a trip to Vermont? You’ve come to the right place. Whether it’s spring, summer, fall, or winter, Vermont is a year-round destination brimming with outdoor adventures, vibrant festivals, and local experiences you won’t find anywhere else in New England. Ready to explore the best of Vermont, season by season? Let’s dive in!
Spring: Maple Sugaring, Wildflowers, and Outdoor Exploration
As winter melts away, Vermont transforms into a lush green paradise. Spring in Vermont is all about new beginnings, making it the perfect time to visit if you want to experience the state coming back to life.
Top Activities for Spring in Vermont:
- Maple Sugaring Season (March - April): Vermont is the leading producer of maple syrup in the United States. Visit a local sugarhouse like Sugarbush Farm or Bragg Farm Sugarhouse to see how sap is transformed into sweet, golden syrup. Don’t miss out on sampling maple creemees, a local favorite!
- Hiking & Waterfalls: As the snow melts, Vermont’s waterfalls become more impressive. Hike to Moss Glen Falls in Stowe or Hamilton Falls in Jamaica State Park for stunning spring views.
- Wildflower Viewing: Explore the trails at Marsh-Billings-Rockefeller National Historical Park or Mount Philo State Park to see Vermont’s spring blooms in full display.
Pro Tip: Spring is Vermont’s off-peak season, so you can find great deals on vacation rentals and avoid the crowds.
Summer: Lakes, Hiking Trails, and Farmers’ Markets
Summer in Vermont is pure magic. With warm, sunny days and cool, crisp nights, it’s the ideal time for outdoor adventures and lakeside relaxation. Whether you’re into hiking, biking, or just kicking back by the water, Vermont has it all.
Top Activities for Summer in Vermont:
- Lake Days: Vermont’s lakes are perfect for swimming, kayaking, and paddleboarding. Check out Lake Willoughby, Lake Champlain, or Lake Bomoseen for a day of family-friendly fun.
- Hiking the Green Mountains: Tackle the Long Trail or explore the trails at Quechee Gorge, often called “Vermont’s Little Grand Canyon.”
- Farmers’ Markets & Fresh Eats: Vermont’s farm-to-table culture shines in summer. Visit top farmers’ markets in Burlington, Brattleboro, and Montpelier for fresh produce and local crafts.
Pro Tip: Book your summer vacation rental early, as this is one of Vermont’s busiest seasons, especially near popular lakes and hiking spots.
Fall: Foliage, Harvest Festivals, and Cozy Getaways
Fall in Vermont is nothing short of iconic. With its vibrant foliage and crisp, cool air, it’s no wonder leaf-peepers from all over New England flock to the Green Mountain State every autumn.
Top Activities for Fall in Vermont:
- Leaf-Peeping: For the best foliage views, take a drive along Route 100 or Byway 7 through the Champlain Valley.
- Apple Picking & Cider Tasting: Stop by Cold Hollow Cider Mill in Waterbury for fresh-pressed cider and cider donuts.
- Harvest Festivals: Celebrate fall at events like the Vermont Pumpkin Chuckin’ Festival or the Stowe Foliage Arts Festival.
Pro Tip: Peak foliage season usually lasts from late September to mid-October, so plan your trip accordingly.
Winter: Skiing, Snowboarding, and Fireside Retreats
When winter arrives, Vermont becomes a snowy wonderland. Known for its top-tier ski resorts, holiday markets, and cozy cabin retreats, winter is a magical time to visit.
Top Activities for Winter in Vermont:
- Skiing & Snowboarding: Hit the slopes at Killington Resort, Stowe Mountain Resort, or Sugarbush Resort for world-class skiing.
- Snowshoeing & Cross-Country Skiing: Explore trails at the Trapp Family Lodge in Stowe for a scenic winter adventure.
- Après-Ski & Fireside Relaxation: After a day in the snow, unwind with a local craft beer from The Alchemist or Hill Farmstead Brewery.
Pro Tip: Book your winter rental early to secure a cozy spot during peak ski season.
Year-Round Attractions: Covered Bridges and Local Breweries
No matter when you visit Vermont, some experiences are timeless. Be sure to check out the state’s covered bridges and renowned craft breweries.
- Covered Bridges Tour: Drive through iconic structures like the Cornish-Windsor Covered Bridge or the Arlington Green Covered Bridge.
- Craft Beer Tasting: Vermont’s beer scene is legendary. Visit The Alchemist, Hill Farmstead Brewery, or Fiddlehead Brewing Company for a taste of local favorites.
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Plan Your Vermont Getaway with Stayclass
Ready to experience the best of Vermont? At Stayclass, we offer classic Vermont stays that reflect the true charm of the Green Mountain State—without the extra fees you’d find on platforms like Airbnb. As Vermont’s own vacation rental site, we’re proud to connect you with unique, locally managed properties for an authentic experience.
Why Book with Stayclass?
- No Booking Fees: Enjoy your trip without the hidden costs of the big guys.
- Local Expertise: We’re Vermont-owned and specialize in properties that capture the spirit of the state.
- Direct Booking Savings: Get access to affordable, one-of-a-kind rentals you won’t find anywhere else.
Explore our map of classic Vermont stays and book directly on Stayclass to find vacation rentals you wont find anywhere else, at the best rates. From spring escapes to winter retreats, Vermont has it all—and we can’t wait to help you find your perfect stay.
Visit Stayclass today and discover your ideal Vermont vacation. Experience the best of New England, one season at a time.