During the fall season, Vermont, known as the Green Mountain State, transforms into a breathtaking canvas of reds, oranges, and gold—leaf peepers. People flock to this New England gem worldwide to witness its spectacular autumn display.

If you’re planning a fall foliage trip to Vermont, choosing the right place to stay can significantly enhance your experience. Explore some of the best areas and accommodations for enjoying Vermont’s autumn splendor.

Vermont’s fall foliage season typically peaks from late September to mid-October, moving from north to south and from higher elevations to lower ones. However, you can find beautiful fall colors throughout the state from early September to late October.

Each region of Vermont offers its unique charm during the fall season. The Northeast Kingdom provides a rugged, untamed beauty, while the Champlain Valley offers a mix of lakeside vistas and rolling hills.

Stowe

Stowe, nestled in the heart of Vermont’s Green Mountains, offers a perfect blend of natural beauty and small-town charm. The vibrant fall colors paint the landscape, creating a picturesque backdrop for your stay.

Where To Stay:

Trapp Family Lodge: This Austrian-inspired resort, owned by the von Trapp family of “The Sound of Music” fame, offers stunning mountain views and extensive hiking trails.
Field Guide Lodge is a boutique hotel combining rustic charm and modern amenities. It is perfect for those seeking a cozy yet stylish retreat.
Stowe Mountain Lodge: Located at the base of Mount Mansfield, this luxury resort provides easy access to outdoor activities and scenic drives.

Woodstock

Often called “the prettiest small town in America,” Woodstock shines brightest in autumn. Its covered bridges and historic buildings are framed by vibrant fall foliage, creating postcard-perfect scenes at every turn.

Where To Stay:

Woodstock Inn & Resort: This elegant resort in the heart of town offers luxurious accommodations and a full-service spa.
506 On the River Inn: Situated along the Ottauquechee River, this inn combines rustic charm with modern comforts.
The Jackson House Inn: A historic bed and breakfast offering personalized service and gourmet breakfasts.

Manchester

Manchester in the southern Green Mountains provides a perfect base for exploring fall foliage. The town itself offers a mix of history, shopping, and outdoor activities.

Where To Stay:

The Equinox Golf Resort & Spa: A historic luxury resort offering a range of activities, from golf to falconry.
Kimpton Taconic Hotel: A boutique hotel blending contemporary design with traditional Vermont style.
The Inn at Manchester: A charming bed and breakfast set on four acres of beautifully landscaped grounds.

Burlington

Vermont’s largest city, Burlington, offers a unique blend of urban amenities and natural beauty. Its location on Lake Champlain provides stunning water views complemented by fall colors.

Where To Stay:

Hotel Vermont: A modern, eco-friendly downtown Burlington hotel featuring locally sourced amenities.
She made INN Vermont A quirky, art-filled bed and breakfast offering panoramic views of Lake Champlain and the Adirondacks.
Hilton Burlington Lake Champlain: A waterfront hotel providing easy access to the lake and downtown attractions.

Killington

Known primarily as a ski resort, Killington transforms into a leaf peeper’s paradise in autumn. The gondola rides offer breathtaking views of the fall foliage.

Where To Stay:

Killington Grand Resort Hotel: A slope-side hotel offering comfortable accommodations and easy access to outdoor activities.
Mountain Green Ski & Golf Resort: Condo-style accommodations for families or groups.
The Snowed Inn: A cozy bed and breakfast offering a more intimate stay experience.

Middlebury

This charming town is home to Middlebury College and offers a perfect blend of academic atmosphere and rural Vermont beauty. The surrounding countryside bursts with color in the fall.

Where To Stay:

Middlebury Inn: A historic hotel in the heart of town, offering modern amenities and Victorian charm.
Swift House Inn is a luxurious bed and breakfast on a 20-acre estate, perfect for a romantic getaway.
On the Creek Bed & Breakfast: A cozy inn along Otter Creek offers peaceful water views.

Mad River Valley

The Mad River Valley, encompassing the towns of Warren and Waitsfield, offers some of the most scenic drives in Vermont. The winding roads reveal new vistas of fall colors at every turn.

Where To Stay:

The Pitcher Inn: A Relais & Châteaux property offering unique, themed rooms and gourmet dining.
West Hill House B&B: A cozy bed and breakfast on nine acres of gardens, meadows, and woodlands.
Mad River Barn is a rustic-chic inn with an on-site pub, perfect for unwinding after a day of leaf peeping.

Northeast Kingdom

For those seeking a more off-the-beaten-path experience, Vermont’s Northeast Kingdom offers unspoiled natural beauty and fewer crowds.

Where To Stay:

Rabbit Hill Inn: A romantic country inn known for its gourmet dining and personalized service.
Wildflower Inn: A family-friendly resort set on 570 acres of stunning countryside.
The Inn at Mountain View Farm: A historic farm turned luxury inn offering expansive views of the surrounding mountains.

Tips For Planning Your Fall Foliage Stay

Book Early: Fall is Vermont’s peak season, so accommodations fill up quickly. Book your stay several months in advance to secure your preferred lodging.
Be Flexible with Dates: Peak foliage times can vary yearly. If possible, keep your travel dates flexible to catch the best colors.
Consider Midweek Stays: Weekends during the fall foliage season can be crowded and more expensive. Plan a midweek visit for a more peaceful experience and potentially lower rates.
Check Fall Foliage Reports: The Vermont Department of Tourism provides regular fall foliage reports. Check these to time your visit perfectly.
Plan Activities Beyond Leaf Peeping: While the fall colors are spectacular, Vermont offers much more. Plan to visit local farms, attend harvest festivals, or explore hiking trails to make the most of your stay.
Pack Appropriately: Vermont weather can be unpredictable in the fall—pack layers, including a warm jacket and comfortable walking shoes.
Respect Nature and Local Communities: As you enjoy the beautiful fall scenery, remember to practice Leave No Trace principles and support local businesses.

Last Thoughts

The Green Mountains, running through the state’s center, provide dramatic landscapes of color-drenched slopes and quaint valley towns. No matter where you stay in Vermont during the fall foliage season, you will be surrounded by natural beauty.

From luxury resorts to cozy bed and breakfasts, from bustling towns to quiet countryside retreats, Vermont offers accommodations to suit every preference and budget. Remember, the journey is often as rewarding as the destination for fall foliage viewing.

Take scenic drives, stop at local farm stands, explore covered bridges, and immerse yourself in the crisp autumn air and vibrant colors that make Vermont a world-renowned fall destination. Whether seeking a romantic getaway, a family vacation, or a solo adventure, Vermont’s fall foliage season offers an unforgettable experience.

The state’s natural beauty, warm hospitality, and rich cultural offerings create the perfect backdrop for an autumn escape. So pack your bags, bring your camera, and prepare to be amazed by the breathtaking beauty of fall in Vermont.