A Guide to Fall in Vermont: What to Do and Where to Stay

While we're all thoroughly enjoying these warm, sometimes lazy summer days, you'll have to forgive us for looking ahead to fall. You'll probably start daydreaming with us when you see just how glorious it can be in Vermont in the fall. Vermont in the fall is a colorful treat for the eyes, but the milder weather of this shoulder season makes it a great time to get out and explore. 

No matter where you wind up, you'll be treated to spectacular fall foliage, quaint small towns, friendly and welcoming hospitality, fascinating history, and plenty of fun. Vermont in the fall is a unique experience - and it's easily one of the best New England getaways. With its quiet rural character and stunning scenery, we know that Vermont in the fall will provide the perfect place to unplug and enjoy some refreshing downtime this fall. 

While enjoying the best of Vermont in the fall, make sure to include a stay at one of the Select Registry group's Vermont Bed and Breakfasts. There are plenty of fantastic Vermont Bed and Breakfasts to choose from, including those on the New Hampshire border near the White Mountains, in the central and stunning Green Mountain range, and in the valleys and mountains of beautiful Southern Vermont. 

As with all Select Registry Bed and Breakfasts, you’ll find an incredible sense of place at these Vermont Bed and Breakfasts. That, coupled with exquisite hospitality and plenty of value-added amenities and experiences, consistently makes our group of Inns the best places to stay in Vermont. Browse through our collection of Select Registry Bed and Breakfasts in Vermont below and book those unforgettable fall getaways!

Where to Go in Vermont This Fall

Rural countrysides dotted with historic barns and charming cottages, quaint covered bridges, and unbeatable fall foliage are just a few things waiting for you in Vermont in the fall. 

Central Vermont

Central Vermont in the fall is a mecca for outdoor adventurers. Home to the stunning Green Mountains and the popular Mad River Valley, you could hike, bike, and ski for days in this part of the state. It's also home to some genuinely exceptional fall beauty, offering some of the best things to do in Vermont in the fall. 

The combinations of high peaks and valleys here make for a relatively long fall foliage season, too. If you come earlier in the season, you'll find colorful mountain peaks, while later in the season, the valleys explode in color. In central Vermont, you'll find popular towns like Warren, Woodstock, and Middlebury near the Green Mountains and Waterford, near the border of New Hampshire and the exquisite White Mountains. 

Southern Vermont

Southern Vermont is a beautiful and unique part of the state. It's easy to get to Southern Vermont from places like New York City and Boston, too, which makes it an easy way to escape the chaos of the city and enjoy the best of Vermont in the fall. 

The rural beauty of Southern Vermont in the fall makes it a popular New England getaway, too. You'll find popular towns like Manchester, Sunderland, Dorset, Grafton, and Brattleboro here. Parts of southern Vermont, particularly the area between Bennington and Manchester, are called “The Shires of Vermont” and are notable as one of the most scenic portions of the state, all connected by Historic Route 7A.

Things to do in Vermont This Fall

There are so many things to do in Vermont in the fall - but that's just as true in the other seasons of the year as well. However, when you visit Vermont in the fall, you can expect a diverse range of activities to enjoy, all set amidst the fiery, blazing hues of fall. From stunning scenic drives and exhilarating hikes to enjoying more traditional fall activities like apple picking and cider sipping, there's no shortage of great things to do in Vermont in the fall. 

Though there are more things to do in Vermont in the fall than we can list here, below, you'll find a list of ten of our favorite things to do in Vermont, with recommendations on where to enjoy them in each part of the state. 

Scenic Drives

Scenic drives are one of our favorite things to do in Vermont in the fall - and there's no shortage of places to enjoy them. Any short drive is likely scenic during the fall. Even so, some of the best scenic drives to take in Vermont in the fall. 

1. One of our favorite scenic drives in Vermont in the fall is Skyline Drive in southern Vermont, which takes you up Equinox Mountain near Sunderland. 
2. Another incredible scenic drive in Southern Vermont is the Stone Valley Scenic Byway between the towns of Manchester and Poultney.
3. It's hard to argue with the spectacular scenery you'll encounter on the Mad River Scenic Byway. It offers a quintessential look at the best of Vermont in the fall. This drive follows two of Vermont’s most scenic roads, offering exceptional views of colorful forested mountains, hillside farms, and church-steepled villages.
4. Another incredible scenic drive in central Vermont is the Scenic Route 100 byway, known by many as “Vermont’s main street.” This 146-mile route runs straight north-south along the eastern edge of the Green Mountains. 
5. In northern Vermont, relish the views you'll find along the Craftsbury Common and Hazen’s Notch scenic drive. This route is 107 miles long and stretches nearly to the Canadian border, featuring plenty of leafy views, covered bridges, and charming small towns.  

Hiking

Hiking is consistently rated as one of the best things to do in Vermont, but it's particularly beautiful in the fall. From the top of Vermont's mountain peaks, you can enjoy stunning views of the foliage in the valleys below. 

1. Head to Bald Peak near Pittsford, Vermont. From the top, you'll enjoy a spectacular 360-degree view that is unbeatable in fall. 
2. Take a beautiful hike at the  Grafton Trails & Outdoor Center. 
3. You can easily access portions of the Vermont Long Trail from several locations in the Green Mountains. 
4. Mount Tom in Woodstock is another top choice for fall hikes in Vermont. 
5. One of the most iconic things to do in Vermont in the fall is to hike the Stowe Pinnacle, where you'll enjoy those classic fall views. 
6. The Stratton Mountain Fire Tower is a great hike to take, too.  It sits atop the highest peak in southern Vermont and offers some exquisite fall views. 
7. Parts of northern Vermont also offer easy access to some of the best hiking in the White Mountains, including Franconia Notch State Park and the Canon Mountain Aerial Tramway in neighboring New Hampshire. 
8. Another great hike on the Vermont and New Hampshire border are the stunning Mount Monadnock. 

More Things to do in Vermont

Hiking and scenic drives are great, but there are still plenty more ways to enjoy Vermont in the fall. Here are a few more recommendations to make the most of this magical season. 

1. There are plenty of great Vermont ski resorts - but you don't have to wait for ski season to start to visit them! Many of them also offer gorgeous scenic chair rides in the fall. Consider Stratton Mountain Resort, Sugar Bush Resort, Killington Ski Resort, and Mount Snow. 
2. Tour the top Vermont Covered Bridges around the state. They are gorgeous any time of year, particularly when surrounded by the vibrant hues of fall. 
3. Chase waterfalls around the beautiful state of fall. They're beautiful any time of year, particularly in the fall. 
4. Enjoy a classic fall afternoon sipping apple cider and devouring delicious apple cider doughnuts while visiting orchards around the beautiful state of Vermont.  
5. While enjoying a taste of Vermont, don't miss touring Vermont's delightful Cheese Trail. It's the perfect complement to all of those fall adventures!

Of course, whatever you do this fall and wherever your adventures take you, make sure to include a stay at one of the Select Registry group's Vermont Bed and Breakfasts, where you'll enjoy one of the best stats of your life. 

Best Places to Stay in Vermont

West Hill House B&B

Welcome to West Hill House B&B, a historic 1850's home in Vermont's Mad River Valley. Enjoy four glorious seasons for romance, relaxation and recreation at our Warren, Vermont bed and breakfast. We bring you comfort, hospitality, good food, and a personal concierge service. We’re only minutes from Sugarbush Resort, Mad River Glen, and all the shops, artisans and marvelous restaurants of the valley.

Located on a quiet country road nestled in a hillside forest and surrounded by gorgeous perennial gardens, our Vermont Bed and Breakfast is certified Green with awards from many organizations.

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Hill Farm by Sagra

Experience authentic Vermont from one of the oldest operating inns in America. The Grafton Inn welcomed its first guests in 1801 and continues to offer memorable Vermont experiences ever since.

A centerpiece in historic Grafton, our Vermont inn offers 45 individually decorated rooms, suites, and guests houses to accommodate everything from family vacations to romantic getaways, weddings, group retreats, and beyond. Staying or dining with us at the Grafton Inn also helps support the preservation of Vermont’s rural communities, as we are proudly part of the nonprofit Windham Foundation.

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Barrows House

Barrows House is the epitome of quintessential historic Vermont charm! We are proud to be one of the first lodging accommodations in Dorset. Today, we offer guests a place of rest and relaxation with the distinct ambiance and character from a bygone area!  

In 2012, Barrows House was purchased by the owners of the Historic Dorset Inn and was completely renovated before opening in the summer of 2013. The inn's 27 guest rooms, restaurant, and tap room have been modernized and reconfigured to include a new large outdoor dining terrace and a local marble bar. Today, Barrows House boasts several cottages, a swimming pool, tennis courts and beautiful gardens and grounds, as well as, the finest of accommodations and superb American cuisine!

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The Inn at Manchester

Unforgettable personality and unlimited possibilities await you at one of Vermont's most inviting getaways, the historic, family-owned Inn at Manchester. Tucked away in the breathtaking landscape of the Green and Taconic Mountains, the Inn at Manchester provides an idyllic home base for exploration of Vermont’s cultural haven of Manchester. This year-round destination has something for everyone, including shopping, theatre, art, golf, skiing, hiking, fishing and more.

Unwind beside the hearth in the living room or over a game of chess in the cozy den. Maybe take a stroll around our beautiful grounds, a dip in the pool, or just relax in a rocker on the porch. Then join us for cocktail hour in our cozy, living-room style pub – one of the places where guests gather to relax and socialize.

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Rabbit Hill Inn

Northern Vermont's Rabbit Hill Inn is a luxurious and truly romantic Vermont bed and breakfast country inn. It is the perfect destination for adults seeking a New England vacation, honeymoon, intimate romantic getaway, celebration, or a relaxing escape to Vermont’s Northeast Kingdom.

Here you will find unparalleled hospitality, service that pampers, peaceful surrounding, incredible cuisine, and endless activities. The inn boasts 19 romantic, uniquely appointed Vermont B&B guestrooms and suites – most with glowing fireplaces, mountain views, and luxe bathroom features such as double whirlpool tubs and spa showers. Choose from a broad range of decor styles, including traditional, American country, art deco, urban chic, or contemporary.  All rooms are carefully detailed and filled with amenities designed with your comfort in mind.

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Deerhill Inn

On a peaceful hillside in the heart of the Green Mountains, Deerhill Inn looks out across the historic village of West Dover and the wooded Deerfield Valley to Vermont's lovely southern mountains.  It’s a special place, cozy and welcoming.  Our guests return often, to celebrate the Holidays or an important day of their own, to enjoy vibrant Southern Vermont, or just to escape everyday pressures and deeply relax.

Five minutes from the Inn is Mount Snow, a world-class winter sports resort offering downhill skiing and snowboarding, tubing, and snowmobile adventures.  Summertime guests can enjoy Mount Snow’s championship-quality golf course, hiking, biking, or simply driving through the beautiful Green Mountain National Forest.  Nearby Lake Whitingham offers water sports and boat trips.  

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The Dorset Inn

For more than 224 years, the Dorset Inn a bed and breakfast in Vermont has offered traditional New England Hospitality. As Vermont's oldest continually operating inn, we pride ourselves on offering travelers gracious lodging, gourmet dining, fine wines and great spirits! Travelers who we've had the pleasure of hosting enjoy our welcoming atmosphere and exceptional cooking.

No matter when you plan your stay, there's something to do all year long in Vermont! Imagine spending the day downhill skiing at Bromley and Stratton during the winter months. Or shop Manchester’s designer outlets and attend summer stock theater at our own Dorset Playhouse! In the fall, enjoy Vermont’s unparalleled foliage season. From the quiet getaway to the outdoor adventure vacation…All of this and more are within minutes of the Dorset Inn.

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Swift House Inn

An historic 20-room former governor’s mansion, Swift House Inn is Middlebury’s premiere full-service inn. Large, comfortable, and well-appointed rooms can be found throughout three distinct buildings spread across four acres of extensive lawns and mature formal gardens. Many rooms and common areas have fireplaces and quintessential vintage New England decor. 

There’s much to do around Middlebury, Vermont, including visiting Middlebury College, strolling by downtown boutiques, taking in world class performances at Town Hall Theater or at the College, or visiting the many area museums and historic sites. But first, start here—with an outstanding gourmet meal at our restaurant: Jessica’s at Swift House Inn, prepared by Executive Chef Rob Fenn, which won aBest of Award of Excellence by Wine Spectator magazine.

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The Inn at Ormsby Hill

Step across the massive marble threshold of this beautiful, historic property, drop your bags, and breathe a sigh of relief. Welcome to a house that has been a home away from home to many.
Stop first in the heart of our home - the conservatory dining room.

Stroll around the exquisitely landscaped grounds of our Manchester, VT bed and breakfast and expect a few surprises: a labyrinth in the meadow, or a cozy gazebo hideaway, all backed by our AAA Four Diamond rating .

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West Mountain Inn

A Vermont Country Retreat you can call you own! Luxurious rooms, splendid meals, refreshing outdoor pursuits, relaxing afternoons and convivial evenings - now imagine having your own Country Estate and you will understand the West Mountain Inn.

Visitors to the area are surrounded by spacious, antique-filled guest rooms, fantastic views, and 150 acres of gardens, lawns, woodlands and meadows. Guests can hike or snowshoe on miles of trails, flyfish, canoe in the Battenkill River and read or relax in the Adirondack chairs on the front lawn. 

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The Grafton Inn

Experience authentic Vermont from one of the oldest operating inns in America. The Grafton Inn welcomed its first guests in 1801 and continues to offer memorable Vermont experiences ever since.

A centerpiece in historic Grafton, our Vermont inn offers 45 individually decorated rooms, suites, and guests houses to accommodate everything from family vacations to romantic getaways, weddings, group retreats, and beyond. Staying or dining with us at the Grafton Inn also helps support the preservation of Vermont’s rural communities, as we are proudly part of the nonprofit Windham Foundation.

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The Inn at Burklyn

Located in the beautiful Northeast Kingdom, the Inn at Burklyn is a Nationally registered historic, Neo Classical-style grand mansion, built in 1904. The Inn was recently restored and renovated to offer luxury accommodations among pastoral Vermont views. Each of our 14 en-suite guestrooms is beautifully decorated with designer fabrics, gorgeous wallpaper, and scenic art.

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Brass Lantern Inn

The Brass Lantern Inn is a charming bed and breakfast in the quintessential Vermont town of Stowe. Set within the ca. 1810 brick farmhouse and timber-beamed carriage house, it rests on an acre and a half of outdoor space, with spectacular views of Mt. Mansfield.

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Farm Road Estate

Make it a weekend in one of our beautifully appointed cottage suites complete with a wood-burning fireplace and serene views of the picturesque property, Farm Road Estate will quickly become your favorite home away from home!

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