Where to Stay in Vermont in the Fall: A Complete Guide

Figuring out where to stay in Vermont in the fall can feel like a challenge, especially with so many postcard-perfect towns to choose from.

Fall is the busiest season here, and picking the right base makes all the difference. Do you want to wake up surrounded by fiery foliage? Stroll through charming main streets? Or keep things budget-friendly without sacrificing those iconic views?

To help you narrow it down, I’ve rounded up 6 of the best places to stay in Vermont in the fall. Each one has its own vibe, whether you’re planning a romantic getaway, an outdoorsy adventure, or a cozy weekend filled with cider donuts and covered bridges.

I’ll also share my favorite hotels in each town, from luxury inns to more affordable finds, so you can book the perfect spot for your autumn escape.

Disclaimer: Some of the links in this post are affiliate links, which means I may earn a small commission if you make a purchase, at no extra cost to you.

Where to Stay in Vermont in the Fall

Best Town for Classic Fall Foliage: Stowe

If you’ve seen photos of Vermont in the fall, chances are they were taken in Stowe. This charming mountain town is practically made for the season with its fiery red maples, covered bridges, and that iconic white church steeple set against the rolling Green Mountains.

It’s no surprise Stowe is one of the best places to stay in Vermont in the fall!

There’s no shortage of things to do in Stowe in fall. You can bike the Stowe Recreation Path under colorful canopies, explore nearby covered bridges, or head up Smugglers’ Notch for one of Vermont’s most scenic drives.

Foodies will love the farm-to-table restaurants and local cideries, while hikers can take on trails like Stowe Pinnacle for sweeping valley views.

If you’re planning a longer trip, a 3-day Stowe itinerary is a great way to explore the town and its stunning surroundings at a relaxed pace.

Fall is peak season in Stowe, so hotels fill up quickly, especially on weekends in late September and early October. Booking early is essential if you want your pick of cozy inns and boutique lodges!

Where to Stay in Stowe

• Topnotch Resort – This luxury resort is perfect if you want to treat yourself after a day of hiking or exploring. The heated outdoor pool with mountain views is reason enough to stay here!
• Green Mountain Inn – Located right in the heart of Stowe village, this historic inn has a classic New England feel with modern comforts and a cozy tavern on site.
• The Lodge at Spruce Peak – Ideal for families or travelers looking for spacious suites. In fall, it’s all about the incredible mountain scenery and access to outdoor adventures.
• Field Guide Lodge – A fun, modern take on the traditional lodge with colorful design touches and a welcoming vibe. Perfect for couples or solo travelers.
• Brass Lantern Inn – This charming B&B offers beautiful mountain views, cozy rooms, and homemade breakfasts that guests rave about.

Best for a Romantic Fall Getaway: Woodstock

If you’re looking for a storybook Vermont town to spend a fall weekend, Woodstock is it. With its tree-lined streets, historic covered bridges, and charming downtown full of boutiques and cafés, it feels like stepping into a New England postcard.

It’s one of the prettiest places to visit in Vermont during the fall, and the perfect spot for couples or anyone craving a cozy, romantic escape.

There are so many ways to enjoy a fall weekend in Woodstock. Wander across the Middle Covered Bridge, take in the views from the top of Mount Tom, or explore Marsh-Billings-Rockefeller National Historical Park.

Just outside town, Sugarbush Farm is perfect for tasting Vermont cheeses and maple syrup while soaking up those pretty fall colors.

It’s also worth planning extra time to explore the surrounding area. From scenic drives to local farmers’ markets, there are endless things to do in Woodstock that make it a favorite stop for travelers in fall.

Since Woodstock is one of the top picks for where to stay in Vermont in the fall, hotels book out quickly.

The charming inns and boutique hotels here are in high demand, so booking early is a must, especially for peak foliage season in late September and early October.

Where to Stay in Woodstock

• Woodstock Inn & Resort – This iconic inn is the ultimate romantic fall getaway, with elegant rooms, a spa, and gardens that burst with color in October.
• On the River Inn – A boutique property with spacious suites, cozy fireplaces, and beautiful river views. Great for families or couples.
• Sleep Woodstock Motel – A budget-friendly option just outside of town with clean, comfortable rooms and a retro vibe.
• The Village Inn of Woodstock – A lovely B&B within walking distance of downtown, known for its warm hospitality and hearty breakfasts.
• The Shire Woodstock – Set along the Ottauquechee River, this spot offers simple yet charming rooms with peaceful views.

Best Budget-Friendly Base: Killington & Rutland

If you’re trying to decide where to stay in Vermont in the fall without breaking the bank, Killington and Rutland are great alternatives to pricier towns like Stowe or Woodstock.

Both are located in central Vermont, making them a convenient base for exploring the Green Mountains and surrounding areas.

Killington is best known for its ski resort, but in fall, it’s all about colorful foliage and outdoor adventures. Take the scenic gondola ride to the top of Killington Peak for sweeping mountain views or hike one of the many trails in the area.

Nearby, Rutland has a more down-to-earth vibe with plenty of restaurants, shops, and budget-friendly accommodations. It’s also home to the Vermont State Fairgrounds, which host seasonal events in September and October.

These towns are ideal if you’re planning a Vermont road trip or looking for an affordable base to explore other parts of Vermont.

While they may not have the same storybook charm as Woodstock or Manchester, they make up for it with great location, easy access to outdoor activities, and more wallet-friendly options.

Where to Stay in Killington & Rutland

• Mountain Inn at Killington – A boutique inn with rustic-chic rooms, an on-site distillery, and gorgeous views of the Green Mountains.
• Hampton Inn Rutland – A reliable and affordable choice in Rutland with modern rooms and free breakfast.
• Best Western Inn & Suites Rutland-Killington – A practical option with spacious suites, great for families or travelers on a budget.
• Greenbrier Inn Killington – A cozy, family-run inn just minutes from Killington Resort with a gorgeous outdoor pool and a huge gift shop on site.
• Mountain Sports Inn – One of the most budget-friendly options in the area with clean, spacious rooms and a laid-back atmosphere.

Best for Foodies and Breweries: Burlington

Burlington offers a totally different vibe from Vermont’s small mountain towns, but it’s still one of the best places to stay in Vermont in the fall.

Set on the eastern shore of Lake Champlain, this lively college town blends a buzzing food scene, craft breweries, and gorgeous waterfront views.

You can spend your days strolling along Church Street Marketplace, sampling local cider donuts at farmers’ markets, or renting a bike to explore the Burlington Greenway.

In the evenings, grab a drink at one of the city’s many breweries or take a sunset cruise on Lake Champlain. For even more ideas, this guide to things to do in Burlington covers all the highlights!

Burlington is a great base if you want a mix of urban energy and easy access to Vermont’s natural beauty. It’s also a convenient starting point for exploring northern Vermont, with scenic drives leading to Stowe, Smugglers’ Notch, and beyond.

Since Burlington is the largest city in Vermont, it has more accommodation options than smaller towns, including hotels right on the waterfront and budget-friendly picks near downtown. That makes it one of the most flexible choices for a fall trip.

Where to Stay in Burlington

• Hotel Vermont – A boutique hotel with sleek, modern rooms and a cozy lobby perfect for relaxing after a day of exploring. Its central location makes it easy to walk to restaurants and the waterfront.
• Hilton Garden Inn Burlington Downtown – A solid mid-range option within walking distance of Church Street Marketplace and the lake.
• Courtyard Burlington Harbor – Offers lake views, spacious rooms, and an indoor pool. Great for families or couples wanting extra amenities!
• DoubleTree by Hilton Hotel Burlington Vermont – Located a short drive from downtown, this hotel has larger rooms and free parking, making it a good choice for road trippers.
• Starlight Inn – A quirky, movie-themed motel with fun décor and clean, comfortable rooms. It’s an affordable option just outside of downtown, with easy access to Burlington and the surrounding area.

Best Small Town Charm: Manchester

For a classic Vermont fall experience with a touch of elegance, Manchester is hard to beat. This small town is known for its historic architecture, tree-lined streets, and a walkable downtown filled with boutique shops, art galleries, and cafés.

With the Green Mountains as a backdrop, it’s one of the best towns to stay in Vermont in the fall for travelers who want charm without the crowds.

Manchester is also a great base for exploring southern Vermont. You can visit the Lincoln family’s Hildene estate, hike to the summit of Mount Equinox for panoramic foliage views, or drive scenic routes like Route 7A.

After a day out, there’s nothing better than returning to town for dinner at a cozy local restaurant or strolling through the village green surrounded by autumn colors.

While Manchester feels upscale, there’s a good mix of accommodations ranging from luxury resorts to charming inns. Fall weekends are popular here, so booking early is still a smart move.

Where to Stay in Manchester

• Kimpton Taconic Hotel – A stylish boutique hotel with beautiful mountain views, pet-friendly rooms, and an inviting outdoor fire pit.
• The Equinox Golf Resort & Spa – A historic luxury resort offering a full-service spa, fine dining, and stunning grounds perfect for a fall getaway.
• Hampton Inn & Suites Manchester – A modern and budget-friendly option just a short walk from downtown.
• Manchester View – Known for its hillside setting and scenic vistas, this property offers simple but comfortable rooms with private decks to take in the foliage.

Best Hidden Gem: Brattleboro

Brattleboro often flies under the radar, but this artsy riverside town is a fantastic hidden gem for a Vermont fall getaway.

It has a laid-back, creative vibe with a lively downtown full of galleries, bookstores, coffee shops, and farm-to-table restaurants. Surrounded by rolling hills and colorful forests, it’s an ideal base for exploring southern Vermont’s quieter corners.

Spend your days browsing the Brattleboro Farmers’ Market, hiking trails at Fort Dummer State Park, or driving scenic Route 9 for gorgeous foliage views.

The town’s vibrant arts scene and welcoming community make it feel different from Vermont’s more polished resort towns, so it’s perfect if you’re after a more local, authentic experience.

Brattleboro’s accommodations range from historic inns to budget-friendly hotels, giving you plenty of choices without the crowds of more famous towns in Vermont.

It’s a great pick for travelers who want a relaxed pace and easy access to both Vermont and nearby Massachusetts.

Where to Stay in Brattleboro

• Latchis Hotel – A unique boutique hotel set in an Art Deco building that also houses a movie theater. It’s right in the heart of downtown.
• Inn on Putney Road – A charming B&B with elegant rooms and a peaceful garden, located within walking distance of downtown.
• Holiday Inn Express Hotel & Suites Brattleboro – A modern and reliable option with an indoor pool and complimentary breakfast.
• The Black Mountain Inn – A warm, family-run inn just outside of Brattleboro. It features comfy rooms, a welcoming breakfast room, and easy access to nearby hiking trails.