Exploring Vermont

With its rolling hills, stunning foliage, and quintessential New England charm, Vermont is home to some of the most beautiful small towns in the United States. Each town offers a unique blend of history, scenic vistas, and warm hospitality, making them perfect for a weekend getaway or a scenic drive. In this post, I’ll take you on a journey through five of Vermont’s prettiest towns: Grafton, Stowe, Quechee, Montgomery, and Weston. (Note, there are too many to count)

1. Grafton: A Timeless New England Gem

Grafton is one of Vermont’s most picturesque towns, with its beautifully preserved 19th-century architecture and peaceful, rural atmosphere. Walking through the village feels like stepping back in time, with white clapboard homes, classic barns, and a quaint town center that’s perfect for an afternoon stroll.

Highlights:

• Grafton Village Cheese Company: A must-visit for cheese lovers, offering locally made, artisanal cheeses.
• The Grafton Inn: One of the oldest operating inns in America, offering a historic and cozy place to stay.
• Grafton Trails & Outdoor Center: A haven for outdoor enthusiasts, with activities like hiking, biking, and cross-country skiing.

Best Time to Visit: Fall, when the vibrant autumn foliage enhances Grafton’s classic New England charm.

2. Stowe: A Four-Season Adventure Paradise

Stowe is perhaps Vermont’s most famous town, known for its world-class skiing in the winter and stunning hiking trails in the summer. Nestled at the base of Mount Mansfield, Vermont’s highest peak, Stowe offers a perfect mix of outdoor adventure and small-town elegance.

Highlights:

• Stowe Mountain Resort: A skier’s paradise, offering slopes for all skill levels.
• The Stowe Recreation Path: A 5.3-mile paved path perfect for walking, biking, and taking in the stunning mountain views.
• The Trapp Family Lodge: A resort owned by the family who inspired “The Sound of Music,” offering Austrian-inspired hospitality and cuisine.

Best Time to Visit: Winter for skiing, or summer and fall for hiking and mountain biking.

3. Quechee: Where Nature and History Meet

Quechee, located in central Vermont, is a town that seamlessly blends natural beauty with historical charm. It’s home to the famous Quechee Gorge, often called “Vermont’s Little Grand Canyon,” and the historic Simon Pearce glassblowing workshop and restaurant.

Highlights:

• Quechee Gorge: A 165-foot-deep gorge carved by the Ottauquechee River, offering breathtaking views and hiking trails.
• Simon Pearce Glassblowing: Watch artisans create beautiful glass pieces and enjoy a farm-to-table meal at the restaurant overlooking the river.
• Quechee State Park: Perfect for camping, hiking, and picnicking while enjoying the views of the gorge and surrounding forests.

Best Time to Visit: Spring and fall, when the gorge is at its most scenic.

4. Montgomery: A Covered Bridge Lover’s Dream

Tucked away near the Canadian border, Montgomery is often overlooked by travelers, but it’s a hidden gem with some of the most scenic covered bridges in Vermont. With six historic covered bridges in town and a backdrop of rolling hills and farmland, Montgomery offers a quintessential Vermont experience.

Highlights:

• Montgomery’s Covered Bridges: The town is known for its well-preserved covered bridges, including the Longley and Fuller bridges.
• Jay Peak Resort: Just a short drive away, this resort offers excellent skiing in winter and an indoor water park for year-round fun.
• Hiking and Snowshoeing: The area around Montgomery is filled with trails for outdoor enthusiasts to explore year-round.

Best Time to Visit: Fall, when the covered bridges and surrounding foliage create a stunning landscape for photographers and nature lovers alike.

5. Weston: A Cultural and Historical Hub

Weston is a charming town filled with history, culture, and scenic beauty. Its historic district features well-preserved buildings that date back to the early 1800s. Weston is also home to the famous Vermont Country Store, a delightful destination that’s both a shopping experience and a trip back in time.

Highlights:

• The Vermont Country Store: A historic general store offering everything from nostalgic toys to locally made products.
• The Weston Playhouse: Vermont’s oldest professional theater, offering a mix of contemporary and classic performances.
• Weston Priory: A peaceful monastery where visitors can enjoy the serene landscape and attend prayer services.

Best Time to Visit: Summer for theater performances, or winter for the magical holiday atmosphere at The Vermont Country Store.

Conclusion

From the charming streets of Grafton to the dramatic landscapes of Quechee, Vermont’s small towns offer a little something for everyone. Whether you’re seeking outdoor adventures, cultural experiences, or a quiet escape into nature, these five towns capture the beauty and spirit of Vermont in the most picturesque ways possible. No matter the season, each visit promises unforgettable moments in one of New England’s most beautiful states.

In case you are wondering, I have a long list of towns in Vermont that I love to visit. Just because they didn’t make my primary list, does not mean they aren’t worth your time to seek them out… Look for Barnard with their wonderful general store on Crystal Lake, Cabot, Home of everything Cheese, Newfane with their town center of three churches, St Albans with church street and Hudaks to visit, and Craftsbury with a beautiful town common that has all these beautiful buildings surrounding the green.

Jeff Foliage Folger

Autumn is a state of mind more than a time of year – Jeff Foliage

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