Vermont is a beautiful vacation destination for couples looking to relax and rejuvenate in a country setting.
There are many great accommodations to choose from, ranging from affordable bed & breakfasts in the mountains to luxury five star resorts. Spend your Vermont getaway taking romantic walks with water views, sampling farm-fresh cuisine, and exploring local attractions. Here are some of the best Vermont vacation ideas.
The 25 Best Weekend Getaways in Vermont near me today according to local experts:
- 1. Round Barn Inn
- 2. Twin Farms
- 3. Hotel Vermont in Burlington
- 4. VT Getaway: Rabbit Hill Inn
- 5. Stoweflake Mountain Resort and Spa
- 6. Basin Harbor Club on Lake Champlain
- 7. The Woodstocker B&B
- 8. The Red Clover Inn and Restaurant
- 9. Weekend Getaways in Vermont: Stone Hill Inn
- 10. The Inn At Weathersfield
- 11. The Vermont Inn
- 12. Burke Mountain Hotel & Conference Center
- 13. The Brandon Inn
- 14. Weekend Getaways in Vermont: Edson Hill
- 15. Green Mountain Inn
- 16. Weekend Getaway in Vermont: The Amee Farm
- 17. The Woodstock Inn
- 18. Weekend Getaways in Vermont: The Middlebury Inn
- 19. West Hill House B&B
- 20. Hawk Inn and Mountain Resort
- 21. Golden Eagle Resort
- 22. The Manchester View
- 23. Weekend Getaway Near Me: 506 On the River Inn
- 24. Reluctant Panther Inn and Restaurant
- 25. The Shire Woodstock
Vermont Vacation Planning Tips
Vermont is a year-round vacation destination, offering hiking and swimming in the summer, spectacular fall foliage displays in late September and early October, and downhill and cross country skiing in the winter. Whether you are looking for a full service resort with an array of on-site activities, or a romantic inn with a fireplace, the state offers many choices to vacationers.
Where to Go
Vermont is divided into three main regions: Northern, Central and Southern. Southern Vermont, which includes picturesque villages of Manchester, Bellows Falls and Arlington, is a popular weekend getaway destination because it's close to major East Coast cities like Boston and New York. Driving up to Manchester, you'll be able to admire spectacular fall foliage right from the highway.
Central Vermont is home to Montpelier and many other historic towns, including Vergennes, Woodstock, Middlebury & Randolph, White River Jct., Brandon and Rutland. On your weekend getaway, you can explore local art centers, galleries, museums, farms, historic sites, local shops and restaurants. Ben & Jerry's Homemade Ice Cream is located in Central Vermont. Shop for souvenirs such as hand-blown glass, fine jewelery, locally brewed beer, cheese and gourmet food. Downtown Bristol lies at the foot of the Green Mountains and offers several historic attractions.
Northern Vermont is home to the state's largest city, Burlington, as well as other vibrant towns where you can attend outdoor concerts in the summer, theater performances and gallery openings. Hike in the spectacular Green Mountains and go skiing in Stowe in the winter. Keep reading for more Vermont destinations.
Unique Hotels and Resorts
Accommodation options include unique inns, full service resorts and inexpensive campgrounds in state and national parks. The Equinox Resort is a family-friendly getaway with a spa, golf, fly fishing school, nearby outlet shopping and many other activities. The Inn at Essex provides a comfortable base for exploring the Lake Champlain area near Burlington. Castle Hill Resort in the Green Mountains offers a spa and skiing at the Okemo Mountain Resort in the winter.
Located in Southern Vermont, Windham Hill Inn is a romantic idea for couples who need to get away from it all for the weekend. The Pitcher Inn is a unique romantic getaway with individually decorated rooms and wood burning fireplaces.
Fall Foliage in Vermont
Check into an inn and watch leaves turn from green to yellow, red and brown in a matter of days. The change of seasons inspires romance, and fall foliage weekends are idea for a quick romantic getaway. Take romantic walks in the woods, visit a local farm to pick apples, and explore antique stores to find the perfect momento of your trip. Most hotels and inns are fully booked during fall foliage weekends, especially around Columbus Day. Book your stay a month or so in advance, or plan a weekday trip to Vermont.
Skiing and Adventure
Vermont is a popular ski vacation destination in the winter where mountain towns like Stowe and Woodstock offer skiers a selection of downhill and cross-country trails. Check into the luxury Stowe Mountain Lodge and soothe your sore muscles at the spa after a day of skiing. Okemo Mountain Resort is another great ski destination.
Summers offer hiking, kayaking in the lakes, swimming, mountain biking and golf. Get away from New York City or Boston to the Equinox Resort in the historic Manchester Village. Whether you are looking for a romantic weekend getaway or a family adventure, the resort offers an array of vacation activities. Manchester Village is home to a number of brand outlet shops. You can spend a whole day trying on designer clothing and buy it for less than you would in New York City or Boston. Choose from golf, mountain biking, hiking, boating, off-road driving, falconry, fishing, archery and tennis. The Woodstock Country Club is another great place for golf. See more trips: from NYC, Boston, Maine, the Finger Lakes.
Things to Do in Vermont
Home to only 40,000 residents, Vermont is one of the most popular states in New England when it comes to tours and sightseeing and is frequently visited by tourists from all over America. No wonder, for Vermont has so much to offer, from breathtaking landscapes, farms, and famous factories to fantastic ski resorts and trails, Vermont has a bit of something for everyone. Whether you are looking for a perfect adventure, planning your winter holiday, or fancy seeing a serious collection of historical artifacts and landmarks, Vermont is just the place for you.
Shelburne Museum
Shelburne Museum is a massive composition of 39 buildings, all set across 45 acres of captivating landscape. The museum needs so many buildings as its collections are unique and contain over 100,000 items that are exhibited daily for visitors to appreciate. Here you can see art from some of the most famous artists in the world, such as Wyeth and Monet, but you can also view many other interesting collections, such as old circus posters, fine and decorative art, old toys, textiles and clothes, and folk art.
6000 Shelburne Rd, Shelburne, VT 05482, Phone: 802-985-3346
Hildene - The Lincoln Family Home
Robert Todd Lincoln, the only child of Mary and Abraham Lincoln to have survived childhood, built the Georgia Revival Mansion, which later became the home of the Lincoln family. His descendants lived here until 1975. Besides exploring the mansion and joining historical tours to learn more about this place, you can also visit the onsite farm, trail, visit the gardens, or have a picnic.
1005 Hildene Rd, Manchester, VT 05254, Phone: 802-362-1788
Shelburne Farms
Shelburne Farm comprises 1,400 beautiful acres of healthy soil that is perfect for growing food and plants. The farm also has a beautiful forest and a historic landmark, making it worth a visit. The people at Shelburne Farm have dedicated themselves to the noble cause of teaching future generations all about health so that they can live in serenity and balance with nature, relying only on what the land can provide and becoming fully self-sustainable. You can visit any time and book your stay at one of the nearby inns so that you can participate in their different workshops while enjoying the beautiful landscape.
1611 Harbor Rd, Shelburne, VT 05482, Phone: 802-985-8686
Ben & Jerry's Ice Cream Factory Tour
There are two men to whom not many of us can say NO: Ben & Jerry, the makers of the most famous and the most popular ice cream in America and further afield. The factory offers tours seven days a week, except at Christmas, New Year’s Day, and Thanksgiving. They offer fun tours around the factory so you can learn everything about your favorite ice cream and find out how it is made. Follow up with a box of Ben and Jerry’s and eat until your spoon hits the bottom. Visitors of all ages are welcome. Keep reading for more Vermont destinations.
1281 Waterbury-Stowe Rd Waterbury, Phone: 802-253-2317
Vermont Teddy Bear factory
Another one of America’s favorites – named after one of America’s favorite presidents Theodore ‘Teddy’ Roosevelt – these stuffed plush bears are one of children’s must-have toys. Located in Vermont, the Teddy Bear Factory welcomes visitors from all over the US, inviting them to share their history and demonstrating the process of making these favorite stuffed animal toys. This is a perfect family-friendly attraction as children certainly enjoy their visits here. If you are missing a certain teddy bear in your home, then this is a great place to purchase one and take it home with you.
6655 Shelburne Road, Shelburne, VT 05482, Phone: 800-988-8277
Church Street Marketplace
Church Street Marketplace, located in downtown Burlington in Vermont, is an award-winning mall. It is an open air mall that attracts many visitors and shoppers throughout the entire day, keeping the street busy and bustling. Here you can wander the decorated streets, have lunch, a cup of coffee, or tea, or simply browse through the over 100 shops and diners. You can also view the historical buildings, watch entertainers, listen to music, and participate in festivals and events. There is free WiFi and the area is smoke-free.
2 Church St, Burlington, VT 05401, Phone: 802-863-1648
Billings Farm and Museum
The Billings Farm and Museum takes you back to Vermont’s beginnings and traditional heritage, where you can take a ride in a vintage wagon which regularly tours the farm, dairy farm, and farmhouse. Learn more about the daily life of farmers as your hosts show you how this farm functions on a daily basis to produce an amazing assortment of food. Dairy products are also available for purchase at the farm so you can have an actual taste that reflects their philosophy –gratitude and respect for nature.
69 Old River Road (Rte 12N & Old River Road), Woodstock, VT 05091, Phone: 802-457-2355
Marsh - Billings - Rockefeller National Historical Park
Rockefeller National Historical Park is a national treasure with beautiful landscapes that have been preserved in line with the philosophy of the preservation of nature and the conservation of natural resources. Thanks to the volunteers and staff at this national park, you can trail the park for hours and take in the great views along the way. You can also join numerous educational programs and events and learn more about the history of the park. The park is beautiful throughout the year, but it is truly magical in the fall, when the foliage is aflame with color.
54 Elm St, Woodstock, VT 05091, Phone: 802-457-3368
Killington Ski Area
The Killington Ski Area is one of the most modern ski and winter centers in these parts and has six great peaks with exceptional elevation and vertical drops, making this a favorite spot for ski enthusiasts. Killington is not only busy during the winter season as this destination is also frequently visited by hikers during the summer. With its peaks offering marvelous views, fun, and recreation, this area promises to keep you busy and on your feet. The mountains are also equipped with live-cams, just one of the many amenities on offer here.
4763 Killington Road, Killington, VT 05751, Phone: 802-422-6201
Morse Farm Maple Sugarworks
Morse Farm is proud of its 200-year-old tradition of syrup making and their maple syrup is currently recognized as one of the best of its kind on the market. It all began when the settlers, the ancestors of Morse, learned how to use trees to obtain the maple sugars. The Native Americans taught them how to use hot rocks, and later they were able to produce the sugar self-sufficiently. You can come here to visit the sugar houses and witness the production of maple syrup, including a free tasting session along the way. Trailing through nature is also available.
1168 County Rd, Montpelier, VT 05602, Phone: 802-223-2740
VINS Nature Center
The VINS Nature Center is located in Quechee, Vermont, and is supported by enthusiasts and volunteers who are committed to the preservation and protection of the flora, fauna, and natural resources of this habitat. The campus spans across 47 acres and offers educational and informative workshops to teach visitors about the importance of preserving nature. All guests are invited to attend the seminars and get involved in trailing around this amazingly beautiful landscape as they learn more about the unique flora of this area. The center includes two classrooms for educational purposes and four exhibit areas.
149 Natures Way, Quechee, VT 05059, Phone: 802-359-5000
Stowe Mountain Resort
Stowe Mountain Resort is, in the opinion of many including Skiing Magazine and Ski Magazine, one of the most famous ski centers, and is certainly worth a visit. There are over 40 miles of skiing and snowboarding areas in this mountain resort as well as Mt. Mansfield, which is the highest peak in Vermont at 4,395 feet. There are 116 trails in levels ranging from beginner to expert, so everyone can join in and enjoy the scenery. There is also an ice skating rink along with a golf and country club.
7416 Mountain Rd, Stowe, VT 05672, Phone: 802-253-3000
President Calvin Coolidge State Historic Site
Only a couple of hours after the death of President Harding, Calvin Coolidge took the oath and became the 30th President of the United States of America. The oath was compiled by his father, who was the public notary, and it was taken in Coolidge’s childhood home here in Vermont. Today this house and its grounds are historic sites of Vermont, and many visitors come here to see where the oath took place and made Coolidge the President. Most of the furniture in the house was originally purchased by Coolidge, making this house historically quite interesting.
3780 VT-100A, Plymouth, VT 05056, Phone: 802-672-3773
Montshire Museum of Science
Located in Norwich, Vermont, the Montshire Museum of Science is set on 110 acres of beautiful landscape near the Connecticut River, allowing visitors to appreciate the gorgeous environment surrounding the museum. There are over 140 different exhibits with numerous artifacts and items related to physics, technology, nature, and ecology. The staff is devoted to creating and managing various workshops and programs for visitors, children and adults alike, keeping the museum alive and worthy of the attention it receives. Here you can observe, learn, explore, and join numerous learning groups that will extend your knowledge and make this experience even more memorable. Keep reading for more Vermont destinations.
1 Montshire Rd, Norwich, VT 05055, Phone: 802-649-2200
Bennington Museum
Home to the largest collection of Grandma Moses art, the Bennington Museum also has numerous galleries, including ones on contemporary art, military history, and Bennington modernism. The museum nurtures artistic expression from many different art periods, including modernism and photography, but also cherishes old era and old school art and hosts rich collections in various art directions and preferences. Whether you are artsy or only moderately appreciative of art and the history of art, you will surely enjoy your visit as the Bennington Museum is involved in constantly working on improving its exhibitions and always offers something new, aside from having regular collections and exhibitions.
75 Main St, Bennington, VT 05201, Phone: 802-447-1571
Ethan Allen Homestead
The Vermont frontier was the main inspiration for the Ethan Allen Homestead, where you can see the basic items, skills, and tasks required to survive the frontier. Here you can explore the unique experience of getting to know an 18th-century homestead while learning how people used to live and what they went through during their daily lives. You can also learn more about the history of the original owner of the house, the folk hero Ethan Allen, and his significance in the Revolutionary War.
1 Ethan Allen Homestead, Burlington, VT 05408, Phone: 802-865-4556
Park-McCullough House
The Park-McCullough House is one of the best, if not the best, preserved mansions in the Victorian style here in Vermont. This house is a perfect example of the magnificent palaces from the Second Empire. This castle was built in the classical Victorian style with notes of old Roman design and ornaments, which were very popular at the time, and this house is a marvelous testimony to the art and architecture of 1864. It took a year and a half for the house to be built, at the request of Trenor Park.
1 Park St, North Bennington, VT 05257, Phone: 802-442-5441
Lake Champlain Chocolates
Charlie’s Chocolate Factory? Not exactly, but this experience is as close as you can get to one of the most iconic factories in literature. Lake Champlain Chocolates is one of Vermont’s favorite sweets, with an authentic, full, and rich taste of chocolate and, fortunately, their chocolate factory is open to visitors throughout the year. You can follow the process of chocolate making, from the start to being wrapped in foil and, of course, there are free samples for all visitors. Along with the tour and free samples, there is also chocolate tasting session to conclude this unique experience.
2653 Waterbury Stowe Rd, Waterbury, VT 05676, Phone: 802-241-4150
Green Mountain Railroad
The Green Mountain Railroad goes from North Walpole to Rutland in Vermont. You can take a ride on the train and enjoy the scenery of this beautiful region. There are a number of popular rides to book, including an onboard Halloween party and a winter celebration during the Christmas festivities. It is a unique experience for visitors of all ages, and children will particularly enjoy the Halloween ride as there is also an appropriate party after the 60-minute ride in the train across the Green Mountain Railroad. When in Vermont, certainly do not miss out on taking a trip on this railroad.
ECHO Leahy Center for Lake Champlain
The Echo Leahy Center is a lake aquarium and science center which has gained national acclaim for the involvement and dedication of its staff in teaching the general public about animals and science in a fun and dynamic way. The ECHO Leahy Center has over 70 different species of animals that act as ambassadors of nature and help visitors to learn more about their life cycle and habits in their natural habitat. The center has the first LEED-certified building and the exhibits are constructed in such a way to inspire all visitors to protect nature.
1 College St, Burlington, VT 05401, Phone: 802-864-1848
Fairbanks Museum and Planetarium
With 30,000 different items contained in the Fairbanks Museum and Planetarium, this museum is not only a contemporary natural history museum – it is a place of great wonder allowing you to explore our universe and discover many interesting and new things. The permanent collection contains specimens from natural science as well as documents, photographs, historical items and artifacts, and many fascinating treasures that are categorized as ethnological. There are also astronomy experts to guide you through the only public planetarium in Vermont as you are head on a journey to the stars.
1302 Main St, St Johnsbury, VT 05819, Phone: 802-748-2372
Eshqua Bog Natural Area
During the post-glacial era, 10,000 years ago – the perfect habitat was formed for bog and fen plants, creating a botanical garden that today represents a modern day wonder frequently visited by many tourists and locals. Among the numerous species of bog and marsh plants, you can find showy lady’s slippers, cotton grass, buckbean, Labrador tea, larches, and pitcher plants. Although any time is a very good time to visit the Eshqua Bog Natural Area, the best time to visit is around 20th of June when orchids and showy lady’s slippers are in bloom, showcasing hundreds of specimens of these unusual species.
Garvin Hill Rd, Woodstock, VT 05091
Weston Playhouse Theatre Company
Considered to be one of the most beautiful theaters in New England, the Weston Playhouse was designed and built by the architect Raymond Austin in 1935, when the US was ravaged by misery. The Weston Playhouse was made out of love for art and theater and working for the days to come. Back then there was a late night cabaret and a restaurant, along with plays and musicals. Today you can make reservations and check out their event schedule, as there are still much to see and admire. You can watch concerts, plays, musicals, have food, and enjoy the unique surroundings of this great theater.
703 Main St, Weston, VT 05161, Phone: 802-824-8167