Anyone searching for the most beautiful places in Vermont is really looking for a thin slice of New England charm.
I have been there (literally and figuratively) and know you wanna see those rolling Green Mountains, fiery fall colors, quaint villages, and glassy lakes that look like they were created just for postcards.
And honestly, I get it. Vermont is magical and always keeps you coming back for more.
Growing up, my dad lived right on Lake Champlain. So, we used to hop across the border and visit Vermont all the time. Those early road trips are exactly what sparked my love for this epic little state.
But planning a Vermont trip can be super overwhelming. There’s just so much beauty packed into such a small area that you just don’t know where to start.
I mean, what is worth the hype and what totally sucks? It’s hard to know unless you have been to Vermont before.
Well, after years of exploring the Green Mountain State, I want to share my top picks for the prettiest places in Vermont with you.
This way, you can stop stressing about finding the best things to do in Vermont and start planning the trip of a lifetime.
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1. Stowe
Stowe is one of those places that always reminds me why people fall so hard for Vermont.
The town sits between rolling mountains, with Mount Mansfield towering above everything and adding to the allure.
It’s the kind of place where you wake up, breathe in crisp mountain air, and immediately feel a bit lighter.
If you love the outdoors, Stowe is perfect for you. In winter, the ski trails at Stowe Mountain Resort are the stuff winter dreams are made of.
They are long, smooth runs with views that make you want to stop halfway down the mountain just to take everything in.
Come summer or fall, the same mountain turns into a paradise for hikers and bikers. In particular, the Stowe Recreation Path is one of my personal faves if you enjoy an easy morning ride or stroll.
And if you’re into waterfalls, Moss Glen Falls is just a short drive away and genuinely looks like something out of a fantasy novel.
But what makes Stowe extra special is the fact that its brimming over with small-town charm. Think cozy cafés, farm-to-table restaurants, craft breweries, and a main street that feels warm and lived-in.
It’s the kind of place you visit once and immediately start planning your return visit.
2. Woodstock
Woodstock is one of those towns in Vermont that feels like it’s been plucked straight out of a children’s storybook.
But the best part? It’s real life and somehow even more charming in person. I mean, every time I walk through the streets, usually after a few days up in Stowe, I’m reminded why people rave about this place.
The village green, the white church steeples, the historic homes…I could go on and on. It all has this timeless New England charm that makes you want to slow down and stay awhile (or a lifetime).
One of my fave things to do is visit Billings Farm & Museum. I know, I know, it sounds kind of lame.
But spending a morning wandering around this working dairy farm, petting the cows, and learning a bit about Vermont’s agricultural roots is surprisingly fun. Also, the cows are just so dang cute.
And right across the way is Marsh-Billings-Rockefeller National Historical Park. It’s a great spot if you want to hike along forested trails that open up to reveal dreamy views of Vermont’s epic mountains.
If you’re visiting in the fall, prepare to be completely overwhelmed by the vibrant foliage that basically takes over the entire area.
Meanwhile, the town itself is full of cozy cafés, indie shops, and restaurants serving the kind of comfort food you crave after a long day outside.
And the covered bridges around Woodstock? Total Instagram paradise if that’s your jam. Yeah, it is one of those magical spots that just oozes insane charm at every turn.
3. Manchester
When I first visited Manchester, I expected a quiet mountain village. Instead, I discovered this perfect blend of classic New England charm and mega fun things to do.
It’s the kind of place where you can spend the morning hiking through peaceful forests and the afternoon shopping at cool bookstores, epic outlets, and quirky local shops.
First and foremost, anyone who loves the outdoors will be obsessed with this place.
I mean, Mount Equinox is the main attraction and has everything from scenic drives up Skyline Drive to some seriously gorgeous hiking trails.
I love that the views from the top stretch out across the Green Mountains and that even though the hike is intense, it’s 100% worth it.
If you’re visiting in the fall (as you should), the entire area takes on red and gold hues as the leaves on the trees turn a kaleidoscope of colors.
However, Manchester also has this refined, cozy side. In fact, Northshire Bookstore is a must-see since you can easily lose an hour (or three) wandering through the aisles.
There are also great farm-to-table restaurants, craft breweries, and cafés that make chilling in town pretty irresistible.
So, whether you’re here for the fresh mountain air, the small-town charm, or just a relaxing weekend getaway, Manchester delivers and then some. Yup, that’s why I always keep coming back for more.
4. Green Mountains
Well, they don’t call Vermont the Green Mountain State for nothing. In fact, the Green Mountains are the very heart of the state.
They are these rolling ridgelines that seem to follow you no matter where you go. Every time I’m here, especially in Stowe, the mountains feel like old friends waiting to be explored again.
They’re not just beautiful from a distance; they’re the kind of peaks that invite you in with quiet trails, mossy forests, and views that make you pause mid-hike just to remind yourself that yes, this is real life.
The Long Trail, aka the USA’s oldest long-distance hiking trail, runs right along the spine of the Green Mountains, featuring everything from easy day hikes to full-on backpacking adventures.
Mount Mansfield, Camel’s Hump, and Killington are some of the most iconic peaks, each with its own unique qualities. So, do check them all out if you have the time and love hiking.
I mean, Mansfield’s ridgeline feels otherworldly, while Camel’s Hump delivers some of the best panoramic views in the state.
Then there’s Killington, which is a perfect mix of outdoor fun and high-end resort energy.
But the Green Mountains aren’t just for hikers. In winter, the area is a mecca for skiers who want to hit the slopes here.
There are also snowshoe trails and cozy lodges you’ll basically never want to leave, since the temperatures can be brutal here in the winter.
And in summer and fall? Well, imagine scenic drives, waterfalls, swimming holes, farmers’ markets, and more. You name it, and the Green Mountains have it.
5. Lake Champlain
I’ve spent a ton of time around Lake Champlain over the years since my dad lives here, and it’s a place that I never get tired of.
I’ve had my fair share of sunset-filled evenings, lazy summer mornings, and spontaneous swims, and it all just never gets old.
There’s something about the way the mountains frame the water that makes the whole place feel equal parts peaceful and magical.
One of the best ways to experience the lake is to get out on it. Rent a kayak or paddleboard, and you’ll quickly understand why locals rave about the calm waters.
If you prefer something more relaxed, the ferry rides across the lake are surprisingly scenic and make for a fun little adventure. We usually take the one from Essex, NY, to Vermont and always enjoy it.
Then, once you get here, you can hop between charming lakeside towns on both the Vermont and New York sides.
Oh, and if you’re into biking, the Island Line Rail Trail out by the causeway is one of the coolest rides in New England. You’ll be pedaling over open water with mountain views in every direction.
Of course, Lake Champlain isn’t just about the outdoors. Burlington sits right on the shore and is home to great music, farm-to-table food, craft breweries, and epic waterfront strolls.
So, whether you’re swimming, sailing, grabbing ice cream by the marina, or just watching the sunset, Lake Champlain has a way of making you feel like you’ve stumbled upon perfection.
6. Moss Glen Falls
Moss Glen Falls is one of those spots that feels like a secret, even though plenty of people know about it.
I’ve visited Vermont more times than I can count, and Moss Glen Falls, especially the one near Stowe, never loses its magic.
The moment you step onto the trail, you’re surrounded by tranquil forests, soft moss, and you can hear the faint sound of rushing water getting louder with each step.
It’s an easy walk, but it brings you to one of the most breathtaking waterfalls in the state.
Then, when you finally reach the falls, the water descends in this dramatic, ribbon-like cascade that is surrounded by rugged rock and vibrant forests.
If you go after a good rain or during the spring snow melt, it absolutely roars to life and is amazing to see.
In summer, it feels cooler and calmer, like nature’s own little air conditioner. Yeah, I’ve spent plenty of mornings sitting on the rocks, drinking coffee, and letting the mist hit my face. It never gets old.
There are also little paths that take you to different viewpoints. So, it’s easy to explore without much effort.
Overall, it’s a perfect spot for photos, quiet picnics, or just remembering why you love Vermont so dang much.
So, if you’re anywhere near Stowe, Moss Glen Falls is a must-see that will deffo blow your mind.
7. Quechee Gorge
Quechee Gorge is one of those places that completely takes you by surprise, even if you’ve been here before.
Standing on the bridge and looking down 165 feet into this deep, tree-lined chasm is always a jaw-droppingly beautiful moment for me.
I mean, the Ottauquechee River cuts through the rock in this dramatic way that makes the whole scene feel like it belongs out west, not tucked away in a small town in Vermont.
One of my favorite things to do is hike down to the bottom. The trail is short and easy, and once you reach the river, you get a totally different perspective of the gorge above you.
It’s a great spot for photos, exploring the rocks, or just dipping your feet in the river on a hot summer day.
And if you go in the fall? The foliage here is unreal. You’ll see flaming red and gold leaves that make you understand why fall in Vermont is unreal.
Then, right next door, you’ve got Quechee State Park. You can enjoy a picnic, visit little local shops, or grab food at cafés. Yup, it’s easy to turn a quick stop into a full day of fun.
Whether you’re road-tripping in Vermont, hiking, or just chasing surreal views, Quechee Gorge is one of those places you can’t help but fall in love with.
8. Burlington
Burlington is one of those cities that feels super approachable. It’s small enough to be friendly, but lively enough that you’ll never be bored.
Every time I’m in the state, Burlington always ends up being one of my favorite stops.
There’s just something about the combination of lake views, mountain air, and laid-back college-town energy that makes it effortlessly cool.
The waterfront alone is worth the trip since Lake Champlain stretches out before you in every direction.
So, you can bike or walk the path, rent a kayak, book a sunset cruise, or just sit on a bench with an ice cream from the iconic Burlington waterfront stand.
If you’re into biking, the Island Line Trail is unreal. You’ll literally be pedaling over the lake on a narrow causeway with mountains surrounding you on both sides.
Then there’s Church Street Marketplace, which is basically the heart of the city. It’s pedestrian-only, full of cafés, local shops, restaurants, and street performers.
Not gonna lie, on summer evenings, the whole place feels like one big outdoor living room.
And yes, the farm-to-table scene here is as good as everyone says. Plus, there are plenty of craft breweries if you love a super delicious beer.
What I love most about Burlington is the overall vibe. It’s creative, outdoorsy, a little quirky, and totally welcoming.
All in all, it’s the perfect blend of city fun and Vermont charm, and will always leave you coming back for more.
9. Grafton and Weston
Grafton and Weston are two tiny Vermont towns that make you feel like you’ve stepped straight into an idyllic New England postcard.
Somehow, these little villages always manage to win me over again and again. They’re quiet, scenic, and full of old-fashioned Vermont charm.
So, if you’re imagining white steeples, historic inns, winding backroads, and general stores that look like they haven’t changed in a century (in the best way), then that is exactly what you’ll get.
After all, Grafton is the kind of place where you slow down without even trying. The Grafton Village Cheese Company is a must since sampling cheese feels like a rite of passage here.
The whole town is also surrounded by these gorg hiking trails that wind through lush forests and along peaceful streams.
The Grafton Inn, which has been welcoming travelers since the early 1800s, is a super cozy spot that is perf for a weekend getaway in Vermont.
Then, over in Weston, the star of the show is The Vermont Country Store. A visit feels like a nostalgic treasure hunt since the store is packed with everything from candies to gadgets you didn’t know existed.
Just a hoot and holler down the road, the Weston Playhouse has surprisingly great theatrical performances for such a small town, and the village green is perfect for a wee wander.
Yup, both towns feel like hidden gems. They are quiet, welcoming, and full of simple, genuine Vermont beauty that you’ll never get tired of.
10. Smuggler’s Notch
Smugglers’ Notch is one of those places in Vermont that feels almost unreal the first time you see it.
I mean, every visit to “Smuggs” reminds me why this spot is so special. The drive alone is an adventure since it winds along narrow, twisting mountain roads between towering cliffs and massive boulders.
It’s the kind of road where you roll the windows down and enjoy the crisp, pine-scented air as you feel the mountains rise up around you.
In the warmer months, the hiking here is fantastic. Trails like Sterling Pond feature classic Vermont views with glass-like lakes tucked away in the mountains.
There are also caves and boulder fields to explore if you’re feeling extra adventurous. Plus, in the fall, the foliage makes it feel like someone cranked up the saturation on the world. It’s next-level breathtaking.
In winter, Smugglers’ Notch Resort becomes a full-blown snow lover’s paradise.
The skiing and snowboarding are top-notch, with long, scenic runs and a cozy, family-friendly vibe that Vermont resorts are famous for.
Honestly, I just love it here and find myself coming back again and again. The whole area just has this rugged, wild beauty that’s hard to find anywhere else.
11. Montpelier
Not gonna lie, every visit to Montpelier makes me appreciate it a little more. It’s the smallest state capital in the U.S., but that’s exactly what makes it super charming.
Instead of skyscrapers and chaos, you get maple-scented bakeries, friendly bookstores, river views, and a golden-domed Capitol building that looks downright regal with these epic hills in the background.
One of my favorite ways to experience Montpelier is to just wander around the downtown area.
Everything is walkable, and the shops actually feel local, which makes sense because they are.
You can grab a coffee at a cozy café, browse around indie boutiques, or pop into Bear Pond Books, which is the kind of bookstore you could accidentally spend an entire afternoon in.
If you’re into food (and who isn’t?), Montpelier has some fantastic farm-to-table restaurants and bakeries that make the whole town smell next-level delicious.
Hubbard Park is also RIGHT there and has miles of forested trails, as well as a stone tower at the top that makes you like a real-life version of Rapunzel.
Then, in the warmer months, you can picnic by the Winooski River or just go for a refreshing stroll.
Sure, Montpelier might be small, but it’s full of personality, warmth, and unmistakable Vermont charm that is hard to find anywhere else.
12. Bennington
Bennington is unique because it feels grounded in history but is still very much full of life.
It’s one of those spots that stays with me because it has this authentic, lived-in charm you can’t fake.
It’s surrounded by rolling hills and covered bridges, making it a classic Vermont mix of scenic beauty and small-town warmth that makes you want to take life a little easier.
While you’re here, the Bennington Battle Monument is impossible to miss, literally. It towers over the town, and the view from the top is absolutely worth the ride up.
I mean, you can see the mountains stretch out in every direction. So, on a clear day, it’s pretty dang spectacular.
Nearby, the Old First Church and its historic cemetery add to the charms. There’s something peaceful about wandering around the grounds and soaking in the history.
Bennington also has a surprisingly fun arts and food scene. The Bennington Museum is full of regional art and quirky local history, while the nearby shops and cafés make it easy to spend an entire afternoon downtown.
Oh, and if you’re a covered-bridge fan (and honestly, who visits Vermont without becoming one?), the area has some gorgeous ones, like the iconic Silk Road Bridge.
Overall, Bennington feels like REAL Vermont. It’s relaxed, scenic, and full of quaint little things that are waiting to be discovered.
13. Champlain Islands
The Champlain Islands are one of those places that feel like a completely different side of Vermont. It’s quiet, breezy, and features endless lake views.
I love it here because every trip to the islands reminds me why they’re such a hidden gem.
The minute you drive over the causeway and see the water stretching out on both sides, you feel like you’ve slipped into vacation mode without even trying.
Now, each island has its own personality. South Hero is perfect for slow mornings at local farm stands and easy bike rides along peaceful backroads.
While here, Snow Farm Vineyard is one of my fave stops since you can sip wine as you look out at the vines with Lake Champlain in the background.
Grand Isle State Park is another must, especially if you love camping or want a quiet spot for swimming or kayaking. The sunsets are also unreal and are guaranteed to stop you dead in your tracks.
A little farther north, North Hero and Isle La Motte are even more laid-back, if that’s possible.
You’ll find historic sites, quiet beaches, and the Island Line Rail Trail is nearby, aka one of the most unique bike rides in New England.
Trust me, pedaling straight across the lake on a narrow causeway is an experience you won’t soon forget.
14. Killington Peak
Killington Peak always feels like an adventure, no matter how many times you’ve been. It’s a place that has this energy that pulls you in.
It’s part rugged mountain getaway and part lively resort town. Plus, when you’re standing at the top of the peak, with the Green Mountains all around you, you can’t help but be impressed.
In winter, Killington is absolutely legendary and truly shines. I mean, they don’t call it “The Beast of the East” for nothing.
The ski terrain is massive, with long, scenic runs, glades for anyone who likes a challenge, and plenty of cozy spots to warm up with a drink in between laps.
The après-ski scene is genuinely fun too and includes live music, great food, and the unmistakable buzz of a small mountain town.
But what people sometimes overlook is how great Killington is in the summer and fall. The gondola ride up to the summit is worth it for the views alone, and the hiking is fantastic.
Trails zigzag through forests, past outlooks, and across ridgelines. There’s also mountain biking that locals rave about, plus disc golf, scenic drives, and tons of little hidden swimming spots.
So, whether you’re chasing powder, fall foliage, or big Vermont views, Killington Peak has a way of making every trip feel super memorable.
15. Mount Mansfield
Mount Mansfield is one of those places that never stops impressing you. Every time I’m in Stowe, I inevitably get pulled back to Mansfield.
However, that makes sense since this is the tallest peak in the state and one of the most stunning.
The mountain has this bold, rugged presence, with a ridgeline that looks like a face lying down. Once you see it, you can’t unsee it.
Hiking up Mansfield is an adventure, too. So, channel your inner Bear Grylls because there are plenty of trails to enjoy, with the Ridge Trail and Sunset Ridge being two of my favorites.
They take you across open alpine terrain (yes, there is actual alpine tundra in Vermont), and the views stretch across the Green Mountains and far into New York and New Hampshire.
On a clear day, it feels like you can see half of New England. Even if you’re not up for a big hike, the auto toll road or gondola ride gets you close to the top without the sweat.
In winter, Mansfield becomes the literal beating heart of Stowe Mountain Resort. I mean, the skiing here is legendary, complete with long runs, glades, and a perfect mix of challenge and beauty.
And in the fall? Well, the trees explode into a vibrant array of colors that make Mansfield feel extra magical.
16. Middlebury
Middlebury is one of those towns that feels welcoming from the second you arrive.
We used to drive through on the way to the Vermont State Fair, and Middlebury is a perfect blend of small-town charm, college energy, and classic New England scenery.
It’s the kind of place where you can grab a coffee, wander around the historic downtown, and suddenly find yourself standing on a bridge overlooking a gorgeous waterfall.
Yeah, it just has that natural, lived-in beauty that is infectious.
At the heart of Middlebury is Main Street. It’s where you’ll find cozy cafés, bookstores, local shops, and the Middlebury College Museum of Art if you’re a culture vulture like me.
The campus is also gorgeous with wide lawns, mountain views, and old stone buildings that make you want to spend the afternoon walking around.
Plus, right nearby are the stunning Otter Creek Falls, which crash dramatically through the center of town and make for an unexpectedly scenic backdrop.
You can also bike the TAM (Trail Around Middlebury), hike through the surrounding mountains, or drive along winding country roads that lead to small farms and hidden viewpoints.
FYI, Middlebury is also known for its breweries and cideries. So, grabbing a drink after a day outside is an essential experience while you’re in the area.
Map of the Most Beautiful Places in Vermont
Conclusion
What I love about Vermont is that you can go a dozen times (or more like me) and it still has a way of surprising you.
One minute you’re chasing waterfalls, the next you’re wandering through a tiny village that feels like it hasn’t changed in a century.
Vermont has this way of slowing you down, grounding you, and reminding you about all the simple, beautiful things we tend to rush past.
So if you haven’t been yet, go. If you’ve been before, go again. Because Vermont’s beauty isn’t a one-and-done thing.
Rather, it’s the kind of place that keeps calling you back, and every trip back feels a bit like coming home.
