Stowe Mountain Resort
Vermont's premier ski resort with 485 skiable acres on Mount Mansfield, New England's highest peak
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About Vermont
Vermont sits tucked between New York and New Hampshire, stretching from Massachusetts to Canada. The Green Mountains bisect the state north-to-south, providing a spine of ski resorts, hiking trails, and scenic byways. Lake Champlain defines the western edge and offers beaches, sailing, and ferry crossings. The Connecticut River forms the eastern border. Small cities like Burlington, Montpelier, and Brattleboro punch above their weight in arts, food, and culture. Vermont's farms produce more maple syrup per capita than any state in the nation, while its dairy heritage underpins both Ben & Jerry's ice cream and artisan cheese makers. The Long Trail, the oldest long-distance hiking path in the US, runs 273 miles from Massachusetts to Canada along the Green Mountain ridgeline.
- Capital
- Montpelier
- Largest city
- Burlington
- Population
- 647,000
- Languages
- English, French (Northeast Kingdom border communities)
- Currency
- US Dollar
- Time zone
- Eastern Time (ET) — UTC-5 (EST) / UTC-4 (EDT)
Explore Vermont by topic
Jump straight to the experience you're planning.
Best places to visit in Vermont
The 5 destinations our editors recommend — from iconic landmarks to under-the-radar finds.
Ben & Jerry's Factory Tour
Behind-the-scenes tour of the world-famous ice cream factory in Waterbury, ending with a free sample
Shelburne Museum
A 45-acre outdoor museum with 39 historic buildings and world-class American folk art and Impressionist collections
Quechee Gorge
Vermont's 'Little Grand Canyon' — a 165-foot-deep gorge carved by the Ottauquechee River, accessible by bridge or trail
Woodstock Village
A perfectly preserved Federal-era village with covered bridges, the Billings Farm, and Vermont's most photographed town green
Recommended itineraries
Pick a length, follow the route. Each itinerary balances headline sights with breathing room.
5-Day Vermont Explorer
- Day 1Arrive in Vermont, explore city center
- Day 2Visit top attractions and museums
- Day 3Day trip to nearby highlights
- Day 4Local markets and hidden gems
- Day 5Final sightseeing, departure
7-Day Classic Vermont
- Days 1-2Vermont city highlights
- Days 3-4Regional exploration
- Days 5-6Cultural immersion and local experiences
- Day 7Return and departure
14-Day Ultimate Vermont
- Days 1-3Vermont comprehensive city tour
- Days 4-6Northern region exploration
- Days 7-9Eastern highlights
- Days 10-12Southern attractions
- Days 13-14Return to Vermont, departure
Where to stay in Vermont
Three tiers, every traveller covered — from cost-conscious to flagship hotels.
Budget $100
Hostels, budget hotels, and guesthouses offer affordable stays without sacrificing experience.
Mid-range $250
Boutique hotels and well-located accommodations provide comfort and convenience at reasonable prices.
Luxury $600+
World-class resorts and premium hotels deliver unforgettable experiences.
Stowe Mountain Lodge
Check rates on Booking.comWoodstock Inn & Resort
Check rates on Booking.comHotel Vermont
Check rates on Booking.comThe Pitcher Inn
Check rates on Booking.comWhere to eat in Vermont
Cafés, neighbourhood gems, and tasting menus worth the table reservation.
Hen of the Wood Burlington
Hen of the Wood Waterbury
Leunig's Bistro & Café
Farmhouse Tap & Grill
Penny Cluse Café
Misery Loves Co.
Getting around Vermont
A rental car is essential for exploring Vermont beyond Burlington. Burlington International Airport (BTV) is the main gateway. Amtrak's Vermonter and Ethan Allen Express trains connect to New York City. Green Mountain Transit provides local bus service in Burlington and surrounding Chittenden County.
Budget breakdown
Daily spend by tier in USD, broken out by category.
| Category | Budget | Mid-range | Luxury |
|---|---|---|---|
| Accommodation | $50 | $150 | $400 |
| Food (per day) | $30 | $65 | $130 |
| Transportation | $10 | $20 | $50 |
| Activities | $10 | $35 | $80 |
| Daily total | $100 | $250 | $600+ |
Best time to visit Vermont
September–October (foliage) and December–March (skiing)
Late June through August offers warm, pleasant weather ideal for hiking, kayaking, and lake swimming. Shoulder seasons (May–June, November) bring low prices and few crowds, though mud season (late March–April) and stick season (November) have limited charm.
Essential travel tips
- Vermont has no sales tax on clothing or food items, but a 9% meals and rooms tax applies to restaurants and hotels
- The Foliage Report is updated weekly by Vermont Foliage at foliage.vermont.gov — check it before planning a fall trip
- Buy a Vermont State Parks annual pass ($40 USD) if visiting multiple parks — it covers day-use fees at all 55 state parks
- Vermont Ski Areas Association (skivermont.com) offers multi-mountain passes including Ikon Pass (Sugarbush, Killington) and Epic Pass (Stowe, Mount Snow)
Safety information
In winter, always carry tire chains or use 4WD/AWD on mountain roads — mountain passes can close suddenly in snowstorms
Check Vermont 511 road condition reports at 511vt.org or call 511 before driving in winter
Black bears are common in Vermont; never leave food in an unlocked car or unsecured at a campsite
Summer thunderstorms develop quickly over the Green Mountains; descend from exposed ridges at the first sign of lightning
Frequently asked questions
What is the best time to visit Vermont?
The best time to visit Vermont is September–October.
Do I need a visa to visit Vermont?
Entry requirements follow United States federal rules. Visitors from Visa Waiver Program countries may enter for up to 90 days with an approved ESTA (apply at esta.cbp.dhs.gov). All others require a US visa from the nearest American consulate. Requirements vary by nationality, so check with your nearest embassy or the official immigration website before traveling.
What currency is used in Vermont?
The currency in Vermont is the US Dollar (USD). ATMs are widely available in cities and tourist areas. Credit cards are accepted at most hotels and restaurants, but carry cash for markets and smaller establishments.
What language is spoken in Vermont?
The main language(s) spoken in Vermont: English, French (Northeast Kingdom border communities). In tourist areas, English is generally understood. Learning a few basic phrases in the local language is appreciated by locals.
What are the top attractions in Vermont?
The top attractions in Vermont include Stowe Mountain Resort, Ben & Jerry's Factory Tour, Shelburne Museum, Quechee Gorge, and Woodstock Village. Each offers a unique experience, from historic landmarks to natural wonders.