There’s no better place to embrace the magic of autumn than Vermont. As the leaves turn to fiery shades of red, orange, and gold, this small New England state transforms into one of the most enchanting destinations in the U.S. From historic villages to lakeside cities, Vermont is home to some of the best fall towns where nature, culture, and small-town charm collide.
I’ve explored Vermont extensively during the fall season, and nothing compares to sipping hot cider on a crisp October morning while gazing at vibrant hillsides. In this guide, we’ll explore the best fall towns in Vermont, each offering unique experiences—from scenic drives and quaint covered bridges to apple picking and art walks.
Whether you’re planning a weekend getaway or mapping out your ultimate foliage road trip, this list includes the most stunning and memorable fall foliage towns in Vermont, complete with tips, personal stories, and must-see spots.
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Discover Why Vermont is the Ultimate Fall Destination
Vermont isn’t just a place—it’s a seasonal experience. Come fall, this small state becomes a big-league destination for anyone seeking foliage, festivals, or just a cozy place to slow down and enjoy the season. It’s no surprise that several of the best fall towns in Vermont are featured in national travel guides every year.
Why does Vermont stand out? First, it’s the density and variety of maple trees—especially sugar maples—that give the state its signature red and orange hues. Secondly, the rural nature of the state allows for uninterrupted views of mountains, valleys, and forests—all easily accessible by car or on foot.
Beyond natural beauty, Vermont towns offer that old-school Americana charm: white church steeples, red barns, country stores, and covered bridges. Plus, the state’s farm-to-table culture means you’ll eat well, too—think cider donuts, maple-glazed everything, and harvest-themed craft beers.
If you’re searching for places to visit in Vermont during fall, look no further than the towns we’re about to explore. Each one brings something special to the foliage-filled table.
Top 10 Scenic Drives for Fall Foliage in Vermont
Discover Woodstock – Quintessential New England Beauty in the Heart of Vermont
If I had to pick just one place to represent everything magical about fall in Vermont, it would be Woodstock. Nestled in the heart of the state, this postcard-perfect town features colonial architecture, charming boutiques, and a strong sense of local pride. It’s no surprise that Woodstock VT fall foliage is one of the most photographed in the country.
The town center is full of life in October, with pumpkin-lined porches, farmer’s markets, and the smell of wood smoke wafting from chimneys. One of my favorite spots is Sleepy Hollow Farm, located on Cloudland Road. While it’s private property, you can take stunning photos from the roadside—just remember to be respectful.
What to do in Woodstock in the fall:
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Billings Farm & Museum – Interactive exhibits, working animals, and seasonal hayrides.
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Marsh-Billings-Rockefeller National Historical Park – Gorgeous hiking trails with sweeping foliage views.
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Middle Covered Bridge – Iconic and extremely photogenic, especially when framed by golden leaves.
Travel tip: Book lodging early. Woodstock fills up fast in October, and staying in a historic inn adds to the fall atmosphere.
Top Things to Do in Vermont in the Fall
Discover Stowe – A Classic Vermont Autumn Experience You Can’t Miss
No list of the best fall towns in Vermont is complete without mentioning Stowe. Known for its skiing in winter, Stowe transforms into a leaf-peeper’s paradise by mid-October. The town sits in the shadow of Mount Mansfield, Vermont’s highest peak, and every road out of town leads to a panoramic view of blazing fall foliage.
I’ve visited Stowe every autumn for the past three years, and I still get chills driving through Smugglers’ Notch—a winding mountain pass flanked by cliffs and kaleidoscopic trees. The Stowe VT fall foliage season typically peaks around the first two weeks of October, but you’ll see color well into the third week in lower elevations.
Top experiences:
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Gondola Skyride at Stowe Mountain Resort – Soar above the treetops for aerial views of the foliage.
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Rec Path Walk or Bike Ride – 5.3 miles of flat trail through fields and forests.
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Main Street Stowe – Lined with cozy cafés, art galleries, and maple syrup shops.
Discover Burlington – Lakeside Charm and Urban Color in the Heart of Vermont Fall
If you’re looking for fall charm with a side of culture, head to Burlington, Vermont’s largest city. Don’t let the word “city” throw you off—it’s a cozy, artsy hub that offers gorgeous views of both Lake Champlain and the Adirondack Mountains. Come October, Burlington Vermont fall foliage is in full swing, especially in the hillier neighborhoods and public parks.
One of my favorite ways to enjoy the season here is by biking the Burlington Greenway. The trail hugs the shoreline and offers unobstructed views of the water with colorful trees as your backdrop. For sunsets, Waterfront Park is the place to be—bring a blanket and enjoy the colors reflecting off the lake.
Burlington fall highlights:
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Church Street Marketplace – Outdoor shopping and people-watching under a canopy of trees.
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Shelburne Farms – Just 10 minutes away, this historic estate has walking trails and farm animals.
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Battery Park – Perfect for a fall picnic or impromptu photo session.
Local insight: Burlington is a college town, so expect a youthful, vibrant atmosphere. Fall festivals and outdoor concerts are common throughout October.
Best Waterfalls in New England: Your Ultimate Guide to the Most Scenic Waterfalls and Hikes
Manchester – Sophistication Meets Scenic Splendor in Vermont’s Fall Season
Tucked in southern Vermont, Manchester blends upscale charm with rugged beauty. It’s a haven for leaf-peepers who also appreciate fine dining, boutique shopping, and historical landmarks. What I love most about Manchester is how it feels both luxurious and grounded—like sipping a maple latte in hiking boots.
The surrounding mountains, including Mount Equinox, are ideal for foliage hikes or a scenic drive up Skyline Drive (the longest privately owned paved toll road in the U.S.). At the summit, you’ll get a panoramic view of the valleys dressed in full fall regalia.
Must-visit spots:
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Hildene – The Lincoln Family Home – Offers gardens, wooded trails, and a goat dairy.
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Equinox Preservation Trust Trails – Well-marked and great for all skill levels.
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Northshire Bookstore – A cozy place to relax with a fall-themed read.
Pro tip: Drive north on Route 7A in the late afternoon for some of the best golden-hour views in the state.
Discover Waitsfield – Hidden Gem of the Mad River Valley in the Heart of Vermont Fall
If you’re the kind of traveler who loves discovering under-the-radar gems, Waitsfield is your perfect fall escape. Tucked in the scenic Mad River Valley, this town is pure Vermont: peaceful, picturesque, and proudly local. The slower pace here allows you to truly savor the season—without the crowds.
I stumbled upon Waitsfield during a detour from Route 100 and instantly fell for its mix of farmland, forested hills, and creative community. In October, the entire valley bursts into color, with orange and red canopies draping the landscape. It’s no wonder it’s considered one of the best-kept secrets among the best fall towns in Vermont.
Local favorites:
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Bridge Street Marketplace – Browse local crafts and grab a pastry at the Sweet Spot Café.
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Skinner Barn & Meadow Road – A dreamy photo op at golden hour.
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Mad River Path – A gentle, family-friendly walking trail through vibrant countryside.
The fall foliage towns in Vermont often highlight Stowe or Woodstock, but Waitsfield offers the same scenic punch with more solitude and deeper local flavor.
Discover Grafton – Small Town, Big Foliage Appeal in Vermont’s Autumn Glory
You might miss Grafton on the map—but you’d be missing out. This tiny town in Windham County is one of the most charming places to visit in Vermont during fall, especially if you’re craving peace, history, and visual poetry.
When I visited, I felt like I’d walked into the 1800s. Grafton’s lovingly preserved buildings, unpaved roads, and timeless country store make it feel untouched by modern chaos. And in autumn? Every corner looks like a painting. Picture white houses framed by sugar maples glowing orange, leaves crunching underfoot, and wood smoke curling into the air.
Top Grafton experiences:
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Grafton Inn – Historic, romantic, and perfectly situated for a foliage-filled weekend.
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Grafton Trails & Outdoor Center – Rent a bike or hike among fiery hillsides.
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Grafton Village Cheese Company – Sample sharp cheddars after a day outdoors.
Pro tip: Bring your camera. The town green and its surrounding streets offer some of the most iconic fall shots in all of Vermont.
Discover Middlebury – Academic Ambiance with Autumn Views in the Heart of Vermont
Middlebury, home to Middlebury College, blends collegiate energy with classic Vermont tranquility. Set along the Otter Creek and framed by the Green Mountains, it’s one of those towns where culture and nature meet effortlessly.
What sets Middlebury apart as one of the best fall towns in Vermont is its ability to combine old-world charm with a youthful, intellectual vibe. Walking through campus in October is a treat—the towering oaks and maples create a colorful canopy that rivals any scenic drive.
Fall favorites in Middlebury:
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Otter Creek Falls – A small but stunning waterfall right in town.
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Trail Around Middlebury (TAM) – An extensive trail system wrapping around the town.
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Vermont Folklife Center – Learn about the cultural history of the region through exhibits and oral histories.
If you’re planning a fall foliage driving tour, Route 7 from Brandon into Middlebury is an excellent approach, especially near sunset when the light hits the hills just right.
Discover Bennington – Art, History, and October Gold in the Heart of Vermont
Located in the southwestern corner of the state, Bennington is often one of the first places in Vermont to show fall color. Its rich history, artistic flair, and accessible hikes make it a top pick for those seeking both beauty and substance.
I especially love visiting Bennington in early October, when the trees surrounding the Bennington Battle Monument are ablaze and the downtown buzzes with fall-themed events. The views from the monument are fantastic—on a clear day, you can see into New York and Massachusetts.
Can’t-miss stops:
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Bennington Museum – Home to Grandma Moses’ original works and local artifacts.
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Old First Church and Cemetery – A peaceful place for a contemplative walk.
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Robert Frost’s Grave – A literary pilgrimage framed by stunning leaves.
Fall colors here are usually peaking by the first week of October. It’s a great place to start your trip if you’re chasing foliage northward.
Discover Newfane – Southern Vermont’s Fall Secret Worth Exploring
Charming and classic, Newfane is one of the most underrated fall foliage towns in Vermont. With its grand white courthouse, tree-lined main street, and quiet ambiance, it’s the definition of small-town New England.
I discovered Newfane while exploring the Molly Stark Byway, and it quickly became a personal favorite. It’s quiet, it’s walkable, and it offers that cozy, curled-up-with-a-book kind of vibe. Autumn here is pure and unfiltered—the kind of place where time slows down.
Newfane highlights:
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The Windham County Courthouse – A centerpiece surrounded by blazing trees.
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Four Columns Inn – Upscale lodging with a rustic twist and farm-to-table cuisine.
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West River Trail – A scenic hike through a canopy of color.
Travel tip: Pair Newfane with a visit to nearby Townshend or Wilmington for a full day of exploring southern Vermont’s quiet beauty.
Best Fall Foliage Routes in New England: Discover the Ultimate Leaf-Peeping Drives
Essential Tips for Planning Your Fall Trip to Vermont
When to Visit for Peak Colors
Timing is everything when it comes to Vermont foliage. While weather and elevation can influence exact dates, here’s a rough breakdown:
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Northern Vermont (Stowe, Northeast Kingdom): Late September to early October
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Central Vermont (Woodstock, Mad River Valley): Early to mid-October
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Southern Vermont (Manchester, Bennington): Mid to late October
Use tools like the official Vermont foliage report to stay updated. This Vermont fall foliage map 2025 will help you adjust your plans to hit peak color zones.
Where to Stay
The most popular fall foliage towns in Vermont fill up quickly, especially on weekends. Booking at least two months in advance is recommended. Consider:
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Historic Inns – Like Grafton Inn, Woodstock Inn
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Cozy Cabins – Especially in Waitsfield or Mad River Valley
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Boutique Hotels – In Burlington or Manchester
If you prefer a quieter experience, look just outside major towns—many B&Bs and farm stays offer better rates and more privacy.
Packing Essentials
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Layered clothing – Mornings and evenings are chilly
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Comfortable walking shoes or hiking boots
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Waterproof jacket – Fall showers are common
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Reusable water bottle and snacks
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Binoculars or camera – Trust me, you’ll want to capture the views
Plan the Perfect Autumn Escape: Download Your Vermont Fall Towns Itinerary
Want a ready-to-go plan for your Vermont fall adventure? Download this free 5-day itinerary PDF, featuring:
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Routes to each town
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Restaurant suggestions
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Fall event calendars
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Scenic photo stops
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Google Maps integration
It’s perfect for planning your journey through the best fall towns in Vermont without the stress.
Conclusion: Why These Towns Are Autumn Icons
Vermont in the fall isn’t just a trip—it’s a tradition, a visual feast, and a chance to reconnect with simpler joys. From the postcard charm of Woodstock to the golden mountain views in Bennington, these are the best fall towns in Vermont not just for their beauty, but for the unique experiences each one offers.
I’ve personally explored all of these places during peak foliage, and they never fail to deliver. Whether you’re hiking in Stowe, walking a historic district in Middlebury, or sipping cider by the lake in Burlington, you’re guaranteed to fall in love with Vermont.
So grab your flannel, pack your bags, and hit the road. The perfect fall getaway is waiting for you—leaf by leaf, town by town.
Underrated Towns in Vermont: Hidden Gems Worth Exploring
FAQs
What’s the best town to visit in Vermont in the fall?
Woodstock and Stowe are top picks, but towns like Grafton and Waitsfield offer peaceful, less crowded experiences.
When is peak foliage in Vermont?
It typically spans late September to mid-October, depending on region and elevation.
Is Burlington good for fall foliage?
Yes! Burlington offers beautiful lakefront foliage, especially in Waterfront Park and the Greenway.
Are these towns good for families?
Absolutely. Most towns have fall festivals, easy hiking trails, and family-friendly inns and attractions.
Do I need a car to explore these towns?
Yes, driving is the best way to access Vermont’s fall towns and scenic byways. Consider renting a car for full flexibility.
