50 Unforgettable Things to Do in Stowe, Vermont: Your Ultimate Guide

Introduction

Nestled in the heart of Vermont’s Green Mountains, Stowe is a picturesque New England town that beckons travelers with its timeless charm and natural beauty.

Surrounded by lush forests, the vibrant colors of fall foliage, and the pristine slopes of Mount Mansfield, this quintessential mountain town offers a wealth of experiences for visitors seeking adventure, relaxation, and a taste of authentic Vermont life.

Whether you’re an outdoor enthusiast, a culinary connoisseur, or an art aficionado, Stowe’s diverse offerings are sure to captivate your senses. In this comprehensive guide, we’ll take you on a journey through the top 10 things to do in Stowe, VT, ensuring that your visit to this enchanting destination is nothing short of extraordinary.

So, let’s embark on an exploration of Stowe’s hidden gems and well-known treasures alike, as we uncover the essence of this remarkable Vermont town.

Discover Stowe, Vermont: 15 Must-Visit Attractions for Every Traveller

Attraction	Description	Opening Hours	Ticket Prices	Highlights
Mount Mansfield	Vermont’s highest peak offers hiking, skiing, and scenic gondola rides.	Varies by season	Free or ticketed	Panoramic views, outdoor adventures.
Stowe Mountain Resort	Renowned ski resort with year-round activities like golf, zip-lining, and dining.	Varies by season	Varies by activity	Skiing, outdoor recreation, upscale dining.
Trapp Family Lodge	Alpine-style lodge offering trails, dining, and Sound of Music history.	Check their website for details.	Free or ticketed	Scenic trails, Austrian cuisine, cultural heritage.
Vermont Ski and Snowboard Museum	Celebrates Vermont’s skiing history with exhibits and memorabilia.	Fri-Sun, 12 PM – 5 PM	Free	Skiing heritage, vintage equipment.
Stowe Recreation Path	A scenic 5.3-mile path for walking, biking, and enjoying mountain views.	Year-round, dawn to dusk	Free	Biking, walking, breathtaking vistas.
Stowe Craft Breweries	Explore local breweries like The Alchemist, von Trapp, and Idletyme Brewing.	Varies by brewery	Varies	Craft beer tasting, brewery tours.
Smugglers’ Notch State Park	A natural wonderland featuring caves, waterfalls, and stunning hiking trails.	Year-round, day use only	$4 – $7 per person	Hiking, rock formations, wildlife.
Moss Glen Falls	Picturesque waterfall with a short hike to reach its base.	Year-round, daylight hours	Free	Scenic photography, nature appreciation.
Ben & Jerry’s Factory	Ice cream factory tours with tastings and a flavor graveyard.	Check their website for details.	$4 – $11 per person	Ice cream production, fun flavors.
Cold Hollow Cider Mill	A charming cider mill offering tastings, apple picking, and country store shopping.	Mon-Sat, 8 AM – 6 PM	Free	Cider sampling, apple picking, souvenirs.
Stowe Golf Park	Miniature golf course surrounded by beautiful gardens and mountain views.	Check their website for details.	Varies by activity	Family-friendly, scenic mini-golf.
Helen Day Art Center	Contemporary art exhibitions and community arts programs.	Wed-Sun, 12 PM – 5 PM	Free	Local and international art, workshops.
Stowe Mountain Bike Club	A network of scenic mountain biking trails for riders of all levels.	Varies by trailhead	Free	Mountain biking, natural beauty.
Stowe Theatre Guild	Community theater offering live performances and cultural entertainment.	Check their website for details.	Ticketed	Local talent, diverse shows.
Sterling Falls Gorge	A stunning natural gorge with hiking trails and waterfalls.	Year-round, daylight hours	Free	Hiking, waterfall views, natural beauty.

Explore Stowe, Vermont’s diverse attractions, from outdoor adventures to cultural experiences, ensuring an unforgettable visit.

10 Exciting Activities to Do in Stowe, VT: Blending Culture and Adventure

Activity	Description	Insider Notes/Pro Tips
Hot Air Balloon Ride	Soar above Stowe’s picturesque landscapes, including Mount Mansfield. Enjoy breathtaking views during a sunrise or sunset flight.	Book in advance for sunrise rides for the best lighting and less wind. Dress warmly for cooler morning temperatures.
Stowe Mountain ZipTour	Experience an adrenaline rush on North America’s fastest and most scenic zip line tour. Zip through forests and over Smugglers’ Notch.	Wear comfortable clothing and closed-toe shoes. Check weight and age restrictions before booking.
Vermont Wildlife Tours	Embark on guided tours to spot local wildlife like moose, bears, and birds of prey. Learn about Vermont’s diverse ecosystems and conservation efforts.	Bring binoculars and a camera with a telephoto lens. Tours are more successful during dawn and dusk, so plan accordingly.
Stowe Farmers’ Market	Explore a vibrant farmers’ market, showcasing Vermont’s agricultural bounty. Sample fresh produce, artisanal products, and local crafts.	Arrive early for the best selection and avoid the crowds. Support local vendors by purchasing handmade souvenirs and treats.
Dog Sledding Adventure	Take a dog sled ride through snowy trails led by a team of energetic huskies. Experience the thrill of this traditional winter sport.	Dress warmly in layers and wear winter boots. Be prepared for some physical activity as you may assist with steering the sled.
Stowe Rocks Climbing Center	Challenge yourself at an indoor climbing facility suitable for all skill levels. Climb various routes, including bouldering and top-rope climbing.	Beginners can take lessons to learn climbing techniques and safety. Wear comfortable clothing and climbing shoes, or rent them on-site.
Bennington Potters East	Visit a renowned pottery studio and showroom to witness the art of pottery-making. Browse and purchase handcrafted ceramics and pottery.	Check for studio hours and call ahead to schedule a tour if you’re interested in seeing pottery being made. Visit the on-site store for unique souvenirs.
Vermont Ski Museum	Explore exhibits celebrating Vermont’s rich skiing history and culture. Learn about famous skiers, equipment, and the evolution of skiing.	Museum admission is usually very affordable. Combine your visit with other nearby attractions or dining experiences in Stowe.
Stowe Street Emporium	Discover an eclectic mix of boutique shops, art galleries, and eateries on Stowe’s historic Main Street. Enjoy shopping for unique finds and dining at local restaurants.	Check out the various shops’ opening hours and dine at a restaurant with outdoor seating to enjoy the charming streetscape.
Stowe Mountain Resort Golf	Tee off at the scenic golf courses at Stowe Mountain Resort. Enjoy well-designed fairways and spectacular mountain views as you play a round of golf.	Reserve your tee time in advance, especially during peak golfing seasons. Golfers of all skill levels can enjoy the courses.
The Alchemist Brewery & Visitors Center	Taste world-famous craft beers, including Heady Topper, at The Alchemist Brewery. Enjoy brewery tours and sample flights of their brews.	Check the brewery’s website or social media for tour availability and special releases. Buy some cans or growlers to take home; they’re highly sought after.
Stowe Land Trust Trails	Explore a network of scenic trails maintained by the Stowe Land Trust. Hike, bike, or snowshoe through beautiful forests and meadows.	Visit the Stowe Land Trust website for trail maps and updates on trail conditions. Choose a trail that matches your fitness level and interests.
Art Galleries & Studios	Stowe boasts a vibrant arts scene with numerous galleries and studios. Explore local and international artwork, attend openings, and meet artists.	Check gallery schedules for exhibitions and artist meet-and-greets. Consider purchasing artwork as a unique souvenir of your Stowe visit.
Vermont Ski Museum	Explore exhibits celebrating Vermont’s rich skiing history and culture. Learn about famous skiers, equipment, and the evolution of skiing.	Museum admission is usually very affordable. Combine your visit with other nearby attractions or dining experiences in Stowe.

Embark on an unforgettable adventure in Stowe, Vermont, where culture and excitement converge. These activities offer a blend of local heritage and thrilling experiences for every traveler.

A Day in Stowe, Vermont: Activities from Morning to Night

Morning	Afternoon	Night
1. Hot Air Balloon Ride	6. Stowe Mountain ZipTour	11. Stowe Bowl
Experience a serene sunrise	Enjoy an adrenaline-pumping zip	Spend your evening bowling at
from high above.	line adventure through forests.	Stowe’s retro-style bowling
		alley.
2. Vermont Wildlife Tours	7. Stowe Farmers’ Market	12. The Bench
Embark on a wildlife	Explore the vibrant farmers’	Dine at The Bench, known for
safari to spot local	market for fresh produce and	its exquisite farm-to-table
wildlife.	artisanal products.	cuisine.
Afternoon		Night
3. Dog Sledding Adventure	8. Stowe Rocks Climbing Center	13. Doc Ponds
Experience the thrill of	Challenge yourself with indoor	Head to Doc Ponds for craft
dog sledding through snowy	climbing.	beers and delicious pub fare.
trails.
4. Bennington Potters East	9. Vermont Ski Museum	14. Trapp Family Lodge
Visit a renowned pottery	Discover skiing history and	Enjoy a nightcap or dessert at
studio and shop for	culture at the museum.	the Trapp Family Lodge’s cozy
handcrafted ceramics.		lounge.
5. Stowe Street Emporium	10. Stowe Mountain Resort Golf	15. Stowe Ghost Tours
Explore boutique shops,	Tee off at the scenic golf	Join a guided ghost tour for
galleries, and dine at	courses with mountain views.	eerie tales of Stowe’s history.
local restaurants.

This itinerary ensures a diverse and exciting day in Stowe, offering activities that span morning to night and cater to a range of interests and preferences.

Stowe, Vermont: Local Delicacies, Street Food Gems, and Fine Dining Experiences

Stowe, Vermont, offers a delectable array of culinary delights. Here are some must-try local delicacies, popular street food hotspots, and fine dining establishments:

Local Delicacies

1. Vermont Maple Syrup: Start your day with the pure sweetness of locally-produced maple syrup drizzled on pancakes, waffles, or French toast. It’s a quintessential Vermont treat.
2. Vermont Cheddar Cheese: Explore the world of artisanal cheddar with tastings at local cheese shops. You can also enjoy it in various dishes, from mac ‘n’ cheese to grilled sandwiches.
3. Farm-to-Table Fare: Stowe’s restaurants take pride in using locally-sourced ingredients to create dishes that reflect the region’s flavors and seasonal produce.
4. Vermont Craft Beer: Vermont is known for its craft beer scene. Visit local breweries to sample a wide range of beers, from IPAs to stouts.
5. Vermont Apple Cider: Sip on fresh apple cider from local orchards, especially during the fall season when apple picking is in full swing.
6. Venison and Game Meats: Embrace the taste of the Vermont wilderness with dishes featuring venison, elk, and other game meats.
7. Maple Creemees: These maple-flavored soft-serve ice creams are a favorite among locals and visitors alike, offering a sweet way to cool off.

Street Food Hotspots

1. Stowe Street Cafe: This charming cafe serves up delectable sandwiches, soups, and baked goods. It’s an excellent spot for a quick and tasty meal.
2. The Depot Street Malt Shop: Indulge in classic American fare, including ice cream, sundaes, and malted shakes, at this nostalgic eatery.
3. Stowe Bee Bakery: Satisfy your sweet tooth with pastries, cookies, and expertly brewed coffee at this delightful bakery.
4. Piecasso Pizzeria & Lounge: Enjoy wood-fired pizzas, creative cocktails, and a lively atmosphere at Piecasso, a local favorite.

Fine Dining Experiences

1. Hen of the Wood Stowe: Immerse yourself in farm-to-table dining with a focus on seasonal ingredients. The elegant setting complements the exquisite cuisine.
2. The Whip Bar & Grill: Experience a classic alpine lodge atmosphere while savoring hearty dishes at The Whip.
3. Solstice at Stowe Mountain Resort: Dine with panoramic mountain views and indulge in exquisite cuisine, making it a perfect choice for a special evening.
4. The Plate: This restaurant offers modern American cuisine in a casual and welcoming setting, showcasing the best of Vermont’s local produce.
5. The Cliff House Restaurant: Located at the mountaintop, enjoy alpine-inspired dishes with stunning views of the surrounding landscape.
6. Idletyme Brewing Company: Delight in craft beers and creative American fare, combining great drinks with excellent food.
7. The Bistro at Ten Acres: Relish a diverse menu of locally-sourced and international dishes in a charming bistro setting.

This culinary guide invites you to explore the delightful flavors of Stowe, Vermont, from local delicacies to street food hotspots and fine dining experiences, ensuring a memorable gastronomic journey in this charming town.

Accommodations in Stowe, Vermont: Where Comfort Meets Vermont Charm

Here are some exceptional accommodations in Stowe, Vermont, each offering a unique blend of comfort and the state’s distinct charm:

Accommodations in Stowe, Vermont

Accommodation	Description	Highlights
Stoweflake Mountain Resort & Spa	A picturesque resort offering elegant rooms, a spa, and on-site dining.	Spa services, golf course, hot air balloon rides.
Trapp Family Lodge	A charming Austrian-style lodge with mountain views.	Cross-country skiing, brewery, and farm tours.
Topnotch Resort	A luxury resort surrounded by nature with a spa and fine dining.	Tennis center, indoor and outdoor pools, equestrian activities.
The Lodge at Spruce Peak	A ski-in/ski-out resort featuring spacious suites and outdoor activities.	Skiing, golf, zip-lining, and hiking.
Stone Hill Inn	An intimate and romantic B&B with luxurious amenities.	Gourmet breakfast, in-room massages, hot tub.
Green Mountain Inn	A historic inn with modern amenities in the heart of Stowe village.	Outdoor pool, spa, carriage and sleigh rides.
Edson Hill	A boutique hotel nestled on a 38-acre estate with elegant rooms.	On-site dining, outdoor fire pit, and walking trails.
Hob Knob Inn	A cozy inn offering comfortable rooms and a welcoming atmosphere.	Seasonal outdoor pool, tennis courts, and gardens.
Golden Eagle Resort	A family-friendly resort with a range of accommodations and activities.	Tennis courts, indoor pool, and game room.
Stowe Mountain Lodge	A luxury lodge with rustic charm and access to outdoor adventures.	Golf, skiing, hiking, and spa services.

Unique Local Experiences in Stowe, Vermont

Experience	Description
Ben & Jerry’s Factory Tour	Visit the iconic ice cream factory for a fun and tasty tour.
Stowe Recreation Path	Explore the scenic 5.3-mile-long paved path for walking or biking.
Vermont Ski and Snowboard Museum	Discover the history of skiing in Vermont and its cultural significance.
Cold Hollow Cider Mill	Taste freshly pressed cider and try delicious apple cider donuts.
Moss Glen Falls	Hike to this stunning waterfall for a refreshing natural spectacle.
Stowe Farmers’ Market	Enjoy local produce, artisan crafts, and live music at this vibrant market.
Stowe Mountain Resort	Experience year-round adventures, from skiing to summer gondola rides.
Stowe Cider	Sample craft ciders and learn about the cider-making process.
Sterling Falls Gorge	Embark on a guided tour to explore this hidden gem of a gorge.
Vermont Maple Outlet	Savor maple-themed treats and take home Vermont maple syrup.

These accommodations and local experiences in Stowe, Vermont, offer the perfect blend of comfort and opportunities to immerse yourself in the charm and beauty of this picturesque destination.

Stowe, Vermont Climate Guide: What to Pack for Every Season

Climate in Stowe, Vermont by Month

Month	Average Temperature (°F)	Precipitation (inches)	Snowfall (inches)
January	22°F	2.7	37.1
February	24°F	2.6	29.7
March	32°F	3.4	33.3
April	45°F	3.7	19.4
May	59°F	4.3	5.5
June	68°F	4.3	0.1
July	74°F	4.3	0.0
August	72°F	4.0	0.0
September	64°F	3.6	0.1
October	52°F	3.7	3.1
November	38°F	3.6	14.9
December	26°F	3.0	33.3

Packing Tips by Season:

Winter (December to February):

• Heavy winter coat, insulated boots, gloves, and a warm hat are essential.
• Layer clothing for warmth.
• Pack thermal underwear, snow pants, and moisture-wicking socks.
• Don’t forget sunglasses and sunscreen for snowy days.

Spring (March to May):

• A mix of warm and cool clothing for variable temperatures.
• Waterproof hiking boots for muddy trails.
• Rain jacket and umbrella for spring showers.
• Lightweight layers you can add or remove.

Summer (June to August):

• Light and breathable clothing for warm days.
• Hiking boots or comfortable walking shoes.
• Sunscreen, sunglasses, and a wide-brimmed hat for sun protection.
• Swimwear if you plan to enjoy water activities.

Fall (September to November):

• Layered clothing for chilly mornings and mild afternoons.
• Hiking boots for exploring fall foliage.
• Warm jacket or fleece for cooler evenings.
• Camera to capture the vibrant autumn colors.

Stowe, Vermont’s climate offers a variety of experiences throughout the year, so be sure to pack accordingly for the season you plan to visit.

Transportation Options in Stowe, Vermont

Transportation Mode	Cost (Approx.)	Duration	Details
Rental Car	$50-$100/day	Varies	Flexibility to explore at your pace.
Shuttle Service	$45-$75/person	45 mins	Shared shuttle from Burlington Airport.
Public Bus	$1.50-$2.50	Varies	Affordable local bus service.
Taxi/Uber/Lyft	$15-$30	Varies	On-demand rides within the town.
Bike Rental	$20-$40/day	Varies	Explore Stowe on two wheels.
Walking	Free	Varies	Discover the town’s charm on foot.

Safety Guidelines for Transportation in Stowe, Vermont

1. Seat Belts: Always wear seat belts when driving or riding in a vehicle.

2. Winter Driving: In snowy conditions, use winter tires or chains. Drive cautiously and obey road closures when necessary.

3. Public Transportation: Follow any COVID-19 safety guidelines in place for public buses or shuttle services.

4. Biking: Wear a helmet and use appropriate safety gear when cycling. Observe traffic rules and stay visible.

5. Walking: Use designated pedestrian paths and crosswalks. Be cautious at night, and carry a flashlight if needed.

6. Ride-Sharing: Verify the identity of your ride-sharing driver before entering the vehicle.

7. Local Regulations: Familiarize yourself with local traffic rules and regulations.

By following these safety guidelines and choosing the transportation option that suits your needs, you can explore Stowe, Vermont, comfortably and securely.

Hidden Gems and Secrets of Stowe, Vermont

Here are some lesser-known secrets and hidden spots in Stowe, Vermont, waiting to be discovered:

Hidden Gem	Description
Moss Glen Falls	A secluded waterfall accessible via a short hike. Discover the tranquil beauty of the cascading waters.
Sterling Pond	Hike to this pristine mountain pond for stunning reflections of the surrounding peaks. A serene alpine oasis.
Nebraska Valley Road	A scenic drive offering breathtaking views of the Green Mountains. Ideal for fall foliage and photography.
Bingham Falls	A hidden gem with emerald pools and waterfalls. A great spot for a refreshing swim on a hot summer’s day.
Emily’s Bridge	Rumored to be haunted, this covered bridge has an eerie history. A unique and spooky stop for the curious.
The Alchemist	A renowned brewery known for its Heady Topper beer. Taste world-class craft brews and explore the brewery.
Edson Hill Manor	A charming inn with peaceful gardens. Perfect for a romantic escape or a quiet retreat amidst nature.
Smugglers’ Notch	A rugged mountain pass with caves and smuggler’s lore. Explore its hidden nooks and enjoy scenic hikes.
Cold Hollow Cider Mill	Sample fresh apple cider and delicious cider donuts. Learn about the cider-making process at this local gem.
West Branch Gallery	An art gallery featuring contemporary Vermont artists. Admire unique artworks and support local talent.

These hidden gems offer a different perspective of Stowe, Vermont, away from the well-trodden paths, and provide memorable experiences for adventurous travellers.

Exciting Adventures Just Beyond Stowe, Vermont

Explore these fantastic attractions and activities located just outside of Stowe, Vermont:

1. Ben & Jerry’s Factory Tour
Visit the iconic Ben & Jerry’s factory in Waterbury for a fun-filled tour and indulge in delicious ice cream tastings.

2. Mount Mansfield State Forest
Embark on wilderness adventures in Mount Mansfield State Forest, offering hiking, wildlife spotting, and stunning vistas.

3. Green Mountain Byway
Take a scenic drive along the Green Mountain Byway, passing through picturesque towns and beautiful landscapes.

4. Trapp Family Lodge Outdoor Center
Enjoy outdoor activities like cross-country skiing, snowshoeing, and mountain biking at the Trapp Family Lodge.

5. Cold Hollow Cider Mill
Savor fresh apple cider and homemade donuts while learning about cider-making in nearby Waterbury Center.

6. Vermont Ski Museum
Discover the history of skiing in Vermont through fascinating exhibits and artifacts in Stowe Village.

7. Rock of Ages Quarry
Tour the world’s largest deep-hole granite quarry in Barre, where you can witness the impressive stone-cutting process.

These attractions just outside Stowe offer diverse experiences, from outdoor adventures to culinary delights, making your visit to Vermont even more memorable.

Fascinating Facts About Stowe, Vermont

Fact/Statistic	Description
Population	Approximately 4,314 residents (as of the 2020 census).
Elevation	Stowe’s elevation is 1,523 feet (464 meters) above sea level.
Average Annual Snowfall	Stowe receives an average of 314 inches (798 cm) of snow annually.
Famous for Skiing	Stowe is often referred to as the “Ski Capital of the East” and boasts world-class skiing.
Historic Village	Stowe Village is known for its charming, well-preserved 19th-century architecture.
Vermont’s Highest Peak	Mount Mansfield, near Stowe, is the tallest mountain in Vermont, rising to 4,393 feet (1,339 meters).
Trapp Family Legacy	The von Trapp family, of “The Sound of Music” fame, settled in Stowe and established the Trapp Family Lodge.
Covered Bridges	Stowe is home to several picturesque covered bridges, including the Gold Brook Bridge.
Vermont’s First Ski Tow	The first ski tow in the United States was built in Stowe in 1937.
Vibrant Arts Scene	Stowe has a thriving arts community, with galleries, theaters, and annual events like the Stowe Arts Festival.
Stowe Recreation Path	The Stowe Recreation Path offers a scenic 5.3-mile (8.5 km) route for walking, biking, and rollerblading.
Cultural Attractions	Stowe hosts cultural events like the Stowe Jazz Festival and the Stowe Foliage Arts Festival.

These facts and statistics showcase the unique and vibrant character of Stowe, Vermont, making it a fascinating destination for visitors.

Conclusion

Nestled in the heart of Vermont’s Green Mountains, Stowe beckons with its pristine natural beauty, world-class skiing, and charming historic village.

As the “Ski Capital of the East,” it boasts the legendary Mount Mansfield and Trapp Family Lodge, along with picturesque covered bridges and a thriving arts scene.

With a rich tapestry of culture, outdoor adventures, and scenic wonders, Stowe offers an unforgettable blend of recreation and relaxation, making it a year-round destination like no other.

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