Where to Stay in Vermont in the Fall: 5 Best Towns & Hotels

Fall is one of the most beautiful times to visit Vermont, when the mountains turn red and gold and the state’s small towns lean fully into the season. However, deciding where to stay in Vermont in the fall takes a little planning, especially if you want to explore more than one part of the state.

The main attractions are spread across northern, central, and southern Vermont, so staying in one hotel for your entire trip isn’t always practical. I recommend splitting your time between two or three towns to reduce driving and experience more of the state.

In this guide, I’ve rounded up the five best towns to stay in Vermont during fall foliage season, along with the best things to do in each area and hotel recommendations for every budget.

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Where to Stay in Vermont in the Fall

1. Stowe

Stowe was easily my favorite stop on our New England fall road trip. We visited in mid-October and timed it perfectly, with peak foliage, crisp sweater weather, and colorful mountain views in every direction.

It’s also one of the best bases in northern Vermont, as there is plenty to do both in town and nearby. You can drive through Smugglers’ Notch, hike Mount Mansfield, take the gondola for panoramic views, or enjoy an easy walk along the Stowe Recreation Path.

The village itself is small but lovely to explore, with independent shops, cozy cafés, and the iconic white-steepled church. I recommend spending at least two or three nights here, especially if you want time to explore the surrounding area without rushing.

2. Woodstock

Woodstock is one of the most picture-perfect places to visit in Vermont in the fall. The historic village is compact and easy to explore on foot, with independent shops, cozy cafés, and beautiful New England architecture. Make sure to stop at Mon Vert Cafe while you’re there!

The town is particularly beautiful during foliage season, when the trees surrounding The Green and the Ottauquechee River turn shades of red, orange, and gold. Peak color usually arrives in early to mid-October, although the exact timing changes each year.

Woodstock also makes a convenient base for exploring central Vermont. Quechee Gorge, Billings Farm and Museum, Sugarbush Farm, and several covered bridges are all nearby, while Route 4 connects many of the stops featured in my Vermont fall road trip.

The town becomes very busy in fall, so book your accommodation well in advance and try to explore the village early in the morning.

3. Burlington

Burlington is one of the best places to stay in Vermont in the fall if you prefer a livelier base with more restaurants, shops, and evening options. As the state’s largest city, it combines Lake Champlain views and easy access to nature with everything you need for a comfortable stay.

It doesn’t have the same small-town atmosphere as Stowe or Woodstock, but the waterfront, pedestrianized Church Street Marketplace, and excellent food and craft beer scene give Burlington plenty of appeal.

Spend your time walking or cycling along the lake, browsing the downtown shops, visiting the farmers market, or watching the sunset over the Adirondack Mountains. You may also be able to take a sunset sailing, depending on when you visit.

Burlington is also well-positioned for exploring the surrounding countryside. Mount Philo, Shelburne, and the scenic back roads around Charlotte are all easy to reach and particularly beautiful during October.

4. Manchester

Manchester is a great base for exploring southern Vermont, combining mountain scenery with plenty of shops, restaurants, and historic attractions. It’s more spread out than Woodstock or Stowe, so having a car is essential, but most places are still within a short drive of the center.

Fall foliage generally peaks slightly later here than in northern Vermont, often around mid-October. For some of the best views, drive the Mount Equinox Skyline Drive or follow the quieter back roads toward Dorset and Arlington.

Manchester Village is known for its historic buildings and classic New England architecture, while Manchester Center has a mix of independent shops and designer outlets.

You should also visit Hildene, the former summer home of Robert Lincoln, which has formal gardens, walking trails, and beautiful views across the surrounding mountains.

Manchester also works particularly well as the final base on a north-to-south Vermont road trip.

5. Montpelier

Montpelier might not be the first place that comes to mind when deciding where to stay in Vermont in the fall, but it’s a surprisingly great option, especially if you’re looking for a quieter, less touristy base.

As the smallest state capital in the US, Montpelier has a relaxed atmosphere and a compact, walkable downtown filled with independent bookstores, coffee shops, and restaurants. Its most recognizable landmark is the gold-domed Vermont State House, which looks particularly beautiful against the surrounding fall foliage.

You can also walk through Hubbard Park and climb the observation tower for views over the city and nearby hills. Stowe, Burlington, and Woodstock are all within roughly an hour’s drive, giving you plenty of options for day trips.

Montpelier doesn’t have the large resorts or extensive hotel selection you’ll find elsewhere, but it’s a good choice if you prefer a less touristy base in central Vermont.