On paper, Stowe, Vermont doesn’t look that interesting. It’s a small town of less than 300 people and small towns don’t usually have a lot of interesting things to do. Despite that, Stowe still shows up on many Vermont recommendation lists. Because of this, it was a no brainer for me to it to my fall road trip through New England. Once added, I had to find the best things to do in Stowe Vermont in the fall.
However, I’m also from a small town (although it’s significantly larger than Stowe), so I was skeptical of being able to stay busy for the entire time I was there. That was a silly fear. My day in Stowe ended up being the busiest day of my entire trip through New England (and also one of my favorite days).
I visited Stowe, Vermont in the fall, which was perfect. The weather was great, the leaves were changing colors, and I never ran out of things to do. That said, many of these things can be done in most other seasons. But if you have the chance, I recommend visiting in fall.
Things to Do in Stowe Vermont in the Fall
This is not an exhaustive list, but rather a list of what I think are the best things to do in Stowe, Vermont.
Ben & Jerry’s Factory Tour
This is one place that should definitely catch your eye. Here’s where the famous Ben & Jerry’s ice cream is made. What’s even better is they offer tours of their factory. Unfortunately, I don’t have any first hand experience of taking the tour since tours were closed when I came through in October 2021. Bummer!
Learn more and book your ticket in advance on the Ben & Jerry’s website.
Hike to a Waterfall
There are plenty of hiking trails all over Vermont, but if you’re going to do it, why not pick a hike that ends at a waterfall? Plus, if you’re here visiting Stowe in the fall, you’ll get to see more of those beautiful fall colors.
Bingham Falls is a short great hike. It’s a mile round trip and ends with a view from the falls. It’s downhill most of the way to the falls, so it’s uphill all the way back. That said, I didn’t find it very steep, although you should watch your step while working your way closer to the falls as the rocks can be slippery and the ground can be uneven.
It’s a good idea to make this one of your first stops of the day. On my walk to the falls, I passed three people coming back from the falls. The falls were empty when I was there and it was great having them all to myself. When I started making my way back to my car, I passed at least ten people walking down.
Taste Your Way Across the Highway
There are so many places to stop at and you’ll want to sample a little bit of everything. If you’re traveling along State Route 100, you’ll see several places you want to stop. Here’s some of the places I visited and recommend.
Cabot Farmer’s Store – This is a store specializing in cheese and milk from local farmers. The best part is they offer samples, so you can get a taste of several of their cheeses before you buy. Even as a born and raised Wisconsinite, I can say that this cheese is pretty good (although I still prefer Wisconsin dairy!)
Lake Champlain Chocolates – Just across the parking lot from Cabot Farmer’s Store is a small chocolate store offering several types of homemade chocolates. I picked some chocolate up here to bring home for family members.
Cold Hollow Cider Mill – Here is where you can learn all about cider and, again, sample the products. If you’re looking for apple cider, this is the place for you. They also sell apple cider donuts, which while cheap, were just ok in my opinion. Their store also contains several other local Vermont products.
Go Shopping
Once you hit the main street of Stowe, Vermont, you’ll find a handful of shops. There’s enough variety that I think every person should be able to find a store that interests them.
Shaw’s General Store – This might not be what you’re thinking of in terms of a general store, but if you’re looking for souvenirs this is a great stop.
Bear Pond Books Store – If you’re looking for something new to read, this is the place for you. You’ll find books, journals, and some other goodies.
Stowe Mercantile – This store shares the building with Bear Pond Books Store and is perfect for your souvenirs, particularly edible ones. If you need some local beer, syrup, or any other goodies, this is a great place to see what Vermont has to offer.
Laughing Moon Chocolates – Another chocolate store because there’s no such thing as too much chocolate. If you’re looking for truffles or some chocolate covered snacks, this is the place for you.
Walk Part of the Stowe Recreation Path
Just behind the Community Church is a 5.5 mile path for walking, running, or biking. It winds it’s way through nature and it’s very relaxing to walk some, or even all, of it.
Trapp Family Lodge
You’ve likely heard of the Von Trapp Family since their story was made famous by the movie The Sound of Music, but did you know that after escaping Austria, they settled in near Stowe, Vermont? They opened a hotel and beerhall, both of which you can visit. There’s also a coffee house and bakery that provides and great view of the surrounding mountains.
Photograph a Covered Bridge
You’ll find covered bridges all over the area. My hotel had its own covered bridge on property. Find one and use it for some awesome pictures on Instagram.
Venture Beyond Stowe
If you’re still looking for more to do, you can explore the surrounding area. In the late afternoon, I went to Montpelier. Here, I hiked in Hubbard Park, climbed to the top of Hubbard Tower, and took a short walk around downtown Montpelier.
It’s up to you where you choose to visit, but here’s some driving times to nearby, popular options.
Waterbury – 10 miles (15 to 25 minutes)
Burlington – 36 miles (40 to 60 minutes)
Montpelier – 23 miles (25 to 40 minutes)
Eat at a 100 Year Old Restaurant
Wayside Restaurant, Bakery, and Creamery is not located in Stowe, but it’s just a short drive away in Montpelier. This restaurant has been serving travelers since 1918 and for that reason alone, I had to stop in. It’s nothing fancy and is a traditional American diner. But my dinner was good, affordable, and filling after a long day.
Where to Stay
Given Stowe’s location in the mountains, there are many mountain resorts nearby. I stayed in the nearby town of Waterbury, just a twenty minute drive away and it worked well for me. My drive to Stowe took me along State Route 100, which has some of the stores you’ll want to visit. All of the other driving distances are short and the drives were pretty very scenic.
Getting Around Stowe, Vermont
To really explore this area, you’ll need to rent a car. There isn’t public transportation in this area and so many of the places you will want to visit are located along the highway. There isn’t a lot of driving on this day, but you will still be thankful for a car.
Final Thoughts
While you won’t find a long list of museums and famous sights, Stowe still has a lot to offer. In my opinion, it’s hard to think of a better place to spend a fall day than in Stowe, Vermont.
Continue Your Adventure
Itineraries: For the perfect road trip through New England, check out this 10 day itinerary.
More in New England: Stowe, Vermont is just the beginning of the great things to do in New England. In Rhode Island, tour one of the over the top mansions in Newport. In Connecticut, visit the historic fishing village of Mystic or one of its many state parks. On your way to Stowe, pop over to Albany, New York for a quick visit. In Maine, visit Portland and take the Mail Boat Cruise or visit picturesque Cape Elizabeth.