12 Best Places to Visit in Vermont in the Fall

Figuring out where to go in Vermont in the fall can feel overwhelming, especially with so many charming towns, scenic drives, and vibrant leaf-peeping spots to choose from!

Vermont is famous for its fiery foliage, winding country roads, and cozy small-town vibes that make fall trips unforgettable. From iconic photo stops like Sleepy Hollow Farm to breathtaking routes like Smugglers’ Notch and Route 100, there’s no shortage of dreamy destinations to add to your Vermont fall bucket list.

In this guide, I’ll share the best places to visit in Vermont in the fall – perfect for road trips, weekend getaways, or a full autumn vacation.

Whether you’re chasing colorful leaves, sipping fresh apple cider, or exploring quaint villages, these Vermont fall activities will help you soak up every magical moment of the season!

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Best Places to Visit in Vermont in the Fall

1. Stowe

If I had to pick just one town to visit in Vermont in the fall, Stowe would be it! This place has everything – vibrant foliage, cute coffee shops, covered bridges, and mountain views that make you want to pull over every five minutes.

One of my favorite things to do in Stowe is wander through the charming village center. The white-steepled Stowe Community Church is a must for photos, and there are plenty of little shops and restaurants to duck into on a chilly autumn day.

For incredible views over the colorful landscape, hike the Stowe Pinnacle Trail or take a drive up Mount Mansfield, Vermont’s highest peak.

I recommend spending at least 3 days in Stowe to really soak it all in. That way, you’ll have time for scenic drives, a few hikes, and evenings spent exploring the town’s cozy restaurants and shops.

It’s no wonder Stowe always makes the list of the best places to visit in Vermont in the fall!

2. Smugglers’ Notch Pass

Smugglers’ Notch is one of those places that feels magical in the fall. The narrow, winding road cuts through towering cliffs and dense forest, with leaves in every shade of red, orange, and gold.

It’s easily one of the most scenic fall drives in Vermont and worth adding to any fall itinerary!

The pass connects Stowe to Jeffersonville, and the journey itself is an adventure. Sharp turns and dramatic rock formations make it a thrill to drive, but you’ll definitely want to pull over at the roadside parking areas to take in the views and snap some photos.

If you’re visiting during peak foliage, try to go early in the morning or later in the afternoon when the road is quieter. It’s a popular spot, and for good reason, as the colors here are absolutely breathtaking.

3. Cold Hollow Cider Mill

Cold Hollow Cider Mill is the kind of stop that makes fall in Vermont feel so cozy. This family-run spot in Waterbury is famous for its fresh apple cider and warm cider donuts, and trust me, they’re worth every single calorie.

The smell of apples and spices hits you as soon as you walk in. You can watch the cider press in action, browse shelves packed with local Vermont goodies, and grab a snack for the road. Their hard cider tasting room is also a fun stop if you’re not the one driving.

Even if you’re just passing through, it’s the perfect place to take a break and soak up those classic Vermont fall vibes.

4. Mount Mansfield

Mount Mansfield is Vermont’s highest peak and one of the best spots to take in sweeping fall foliage views.

You don’t even have to hike to the top (though you can if you’re up for it). The Auto Toll Road lets you drive most of the way up, with plenty of pull-offs to stop and enjoy the scenery.

Another great option is the Stowe Gondola SkyRide, which whisks you up the mountain in just a few minutes.

At the top, you’ll find panoramic views of rolling hills covered in fiery reds and golds. On a clear day, you can even spot the Adirondacks in New York!

If you do feel like stretching your legs, there are several trails from the summit area, including the ridge hike that gives you a 360-degree view of the fall colors below.

5. Route 100 scenic drive

Route 100 is often called the most beautiful road in Vermont, and driving it in the fall is like flipping through a live postcard.

The route runs nearly the entire length of the state, winding past charming villages, rolling hills, and endless stretches of colorful trees.

It’s one of the best things to do in Vermont in the fall if you love road trips. You can make as many stops as you like along the way – think covered bridges, farm stands, and cute little towns like Weston and Ludlow.

Even if you only drive a section of it, the views are spectacular. I especially love the stretch between Stowe and Killington, where the foliage is absolutely breathtaking.

6. Woodstock

Woodstock is hands down one of the prettiest towns in Vermont, especially in the fall. The village streets are lined with historic buildings, colorful maples, and a postcard-worthy covered bridge right in the center of town.

Everywhere you look feels like it belongs on the front of a fall foliage calendar!

If you’re planning a weekend in Woodstock, spend some time exploring the charming downtown with its boutique shops and inviting cafés.

Just outside the village, Billings Farm & Museum gives you a glimpse of rural Vermont life with historic barns, farm animals, and seasonal events like pumpkin picking and hayrides.

For a dose of nature, head up to Mount Tom. The hike is short but steep, and at the top, you’ll be rewarded with sweeping views of Woodstock surrounded by a sea of fall colors. It’s one of my favorite ways to see just how vibrant Vermont in the fall can be!

There are so many great things to do in Woodstock, and it’s also one of my top picks for where to stay in Vermont in the fall. From historic inns to cozy B&Bs, you’ll find plenty of places that make you want to linger a little longer.

7. Sleepy Hollow Farm

If you’ve ever seen a photo of Vermont in the fall that made you stop scrolling, there’s a good chance it was taken at Sleepy Hollow Farm! This private property just outside Woodstock has become one of the most photographed spots in New England, and it’s easy to see why.

The classic farmhouse, winding dirt road, and rolling hills with colorful fall foliage create a scene that looks straight out of a storybook.

In recent years, the road leading to the farm has been closed to non-residents during peak fall season to manage the heavy tourist crowds.

Unfortunately, if the same happens this year, it would mean that visitors can no longer access the area in the fall, even to take photos from the roadside. Make sure to check the news before going there!

8. Sugarbush Farm

Sugarbush Farm is a must for anyone who loves cheese, maple syrup, and those laid-back Vermont vibes. This family-owned farm is just a short drive from Woodstock and makes a great stop on a fall road trip.

Inside the farm shop, you can sample their award-winning cheeses and try different grades of maple syrup while learning about the sugaring process.

Outside, there are walking trails through the woods and pretty views of the surrounding countryside, especially when the trees are showing off their fall colors.

It’s easy to see why Sugarbush Farm has become one of the best places to visit in Vermont in the fall. It’s simple, charming, and the perfect way to enjoy a slower pace between bigger sightseeing stops.

9. Quechee

Quechee might be small, but it packs a punch in the fall. The big draw here is Quechee Gorge, also called Vermont’s “Little Grand Canyon.”

The view from the bridge is especially stunning in peak foliage season, with the Ottauquechee River cutting through the colorful treetops below.

After checking out the gorge, head to the nearby village. You can browse the shops at the historic Quechee Gorge Village or stop for lunch at Simon Pearce, where you can watch glassblowers at work before enjoying a meal overlooking the waterfall.

It’s an easy stop if you’re already exploring Woodstock, and it’s well worth adding to your Vermont fall itinerary.

10. Manchester

Manchester is a great mix of small-town charm and outdoor adventure, which makes it such a fun stop in the fall. The town has a pretty Main Street lined with historic buildings, boutique shops, and cozy cafés that are perfect for a crisp fall day.

One of the most popular Vermont fall activities here is driving up Skyline Drive to the summit of Mount Equinox. The views from the top are absolutely worth it, with rolling hills and colorful forests stretching out in every direction.

If you’re more into exploring on foot, there are plenty of hiking trails nearby, or you can wander around Hildene, the Lincoln family home, with its beautiful gardens and mountain views.

Manchester also has some great outlet shopping if you’re in the mood for a little retail therapy between foliage stops.

11. Burlington

Burlington has a completely different vibe from Vermont’s small mountain towns, but it’s still a fantastic place to visit in the fall. Sitting on the shores of Lake Champlain, it offers beautiful waterfront views, colorful sunsets, and plenty of ways to enjoy the season.

One of my favorite things to do in Burlington is to walk or bike along the Lake Champlain waterfront path. On a warm fall day, it’s the perfect way to take in the scenery.

Church Street Marketplace is another must, with its pedestrian-only street lined with shops, restaurants, and street performers.

You can also check out the local food scene, go brewery hopping, or take a sunset cruise on the lake for a different perspective of the fall foliage.

Burlington makes a great base for exploring northern Vermont, especially if you’re looking for a mix of nature and city life.

12. Montpelier

Montpelier might be the smallest state capital in the country, but it has plenty of charm, especially in the fall. Surrounded by hills and forests, the town feels extra cozy when the leaves start to turn.

Take a walk around the downtown area to check out local shops, bookstores, and cafés. The Vermont State House is worth a stop too, with its iconic gold dome standing out against the backdrop of fall colors.

For a quick escape into nature, head to Hubbard Park and climb the stone observation tower. The views from the top are beautiful in the fall and give you a great look at Montpelier and the surrounding landscape.