How to Spend a Perfect Day in Stowe, Vermont

Vermont is a place unlike any other in the United States, with its rolling hills, vibrant towns and jaw-dropping ski slopes. Stowe, Vermont is one of the most iconic locations to visit in the entire state. Whether you’re looking for a romantic getaway for two or planning a family vacation in the great outdoors, here’s how to spend a perfect day in Stowe, Vermont.

Morning

Start off your perfect day in Stowe with some outdoor activities. Of course, skiing is one of the primary activities that brings people to Stowe. But there’s plenty of outdoor adventure to be found all year round in this beautiful location. If you’re looking for some outdoor winter fun, Stowe is home to some of the best skiing and snowboarding trails in the state. If you’d rather get outside in the warmer months, there are a variety of hiking trails to choose from throughout the area. Of course, no excursion to Stowe would be complete without a trip to Mount Mansfield, the highest point in the state. For those looking for some breathtaking views, head to The Chin to see some of the best panoramic views Stowe has to offer.

Noon

Once you’ve got your fill of fresh mountain air, it’s time to explore the town of Stowe. This charming community is full of unique boutiques, quaint coffee shops and delicious restaurants. The main attraction is Ben and Jerry’s little scoop shop on Palms Road, where families can stop in for a quick snack as they explore downtown Stowe. Just across the street sits Pinnacle Ski and Sports offering ski rentals, apparel and much more. Grab lunch downtown at Piecasso Pizzeria or Champney’s Restaurant and Tavern before heading over to the Weston Priory for a guided tour. This Benedictine Monastery has been around since the 1700’s and offers daily retreats and guided walking tours throughout the year.

Afternoon

Spend the afternoon exploring some of the stunning attractions found in Stowe. Visit the famous Trapp Family Lodge, founded by Maria von Trapp from “The Sound of Music”. Tour the grounds, hear their wonderful music and get an up close and personal look at their beautiful flower gardens. If you’re looking for a truly unique experience, take a ride on the Mountain Road Auto Toll Road leading up to the top of Mount Mansfield. This one of a kind toll road allows drivers to dress as they wish while they travel along a beautiful winding road to the top of peak.

Evening

Once all your adventures have been completed, settle in for a night on the town in Stowe. Check out local brewery craft beers at Idletyme Brewing Co., or listen to some live music at Charlie B’s Pub & Restaurant. For an unforgettable experience, take an evening sleigh ride through the rolling hills beneath Mount Mansfield with Smugglers Notch Sleigh Rides. Stowe, Vermont has something for everyone looking for an unforgettable experience in nature and beauty. Whether you’re looking for a romantic getaway or a fun-filled family adventure, you can put together a perfect day in no time at all. To start planning your outing to this charming Vermont town, visit StoweVt.com.

Insider’s Guide to Stowe, Vermont

Stowe, a picturesque town in Vermont, is known for its breathtaking beauty, stunning vistas, outdoor activities, and vibrant arts community. Whether you’re a nature lover, foodie, art enthusiast or history buff, Stowe has something for everyone. In this insider’s guide, we’ll explore how you can spend a perfect day in Stowe, Vermont.

Local Attractions

Start your Stowe adventure by visiting the Ben & Jerry’s Ice Cream Factory. This iconic ice cream factory offers fascinating tours, giving visitors a sneak peek at how Ben & Jerry’s ice cream is made. The tour includes a tasting session that allows you to sample their most popular flavors.

Next up is the Trapp Family Lodge, where you can learn about Vermont’s rich history. The Trapp Family Lodge is the home of the famous Sound of Music family, who escaped Austria in the early 1940s and settled in Stowe, Vermont. The lodge offers tours, where visitors can learn about the family’s history, wander through sprawling gardens, and enjoy the stunning mountain views.

For outdoor enthusiasts, Stowe provides plenty of opportunities. The Smugglers’ Notch State Park is a must-visit destination. Smugglers Notch is a narrow pass through the Green Mountains of northern Vermont, and it’s a haven for hikers, rock climbers, and mountain bikers. The park features rugged terrain, beautiful waterfalls, and unique rock formations.

Dining Spots

A visit to Stowe would be incomplete without sampling some of the local foods. For breakfast, head to McCarthy’s Restaurant for a classic New England breakfast of blueberry pancakes, maple syrup, and bacon. If you’re looking for a cozy dinner spot, Piecasso Pizzeria & Lounge is perfect for you. This family-friendly restaurant offers mouth-watering thin-crust pizzas, craft beers, and live music.

For the ultimate fine-dining experience, head to the Hen of the Wood. The restaurant serves locally-sourced fare, highlighting Vermont’s farming and culinary heritage. Hen of the Wood’s menu changes daily.

Cultural Experiences

Stowe is a thriving arts community, and visitors can experience this by exploring some of the art galleries and museums in the area. The Helen Day Art Center is one such destination that presents a variety of visual arts exhibitions and education programs. The Art Center’s permanent collection comprises over 500 works of art and sculpture.

Those interested in experiencing Vermont’s vibrant music scene should head to Spruce Peak Performing Arts Center. The venue features world-class artists’ performances ranging from classical music to contemporary dance to jazz.

Local History

Stowe has a rich history dating back to colonial times. Visitors can explore more of this history by visiting the Stowe Historical Society Museum. The museum showcases over 150 years of Stowe’s history through exhibits, films, and interactive displays.

The Green Mountain Club’s Visitor Center is another significant landmark for history lovers. Hiking enthusiasts founded this wooden cabin in the 1920s, and it remains a vital part of Stowe’s community. The center provides information on hiking trails and Vermont’s conservation efforts.

Off-the-Beaten-Path Suggestions

For those keen to explore Stowe’s lesser-known areas, the West Branch Gallery & Sculpture Park is perfect. This outdoor sculpture garden is a hidden gem in Stowe, showcasing works of art by a variety of artists, from emerging to established.

In the summer months, visit the Maple Street Swimming Hole for a refreshing dip. This natural swimming hole offers breathtaking mountain views and relaxing waterfalls.

Ending your day at the Sunset Rock Trail offers a brilliant sunset over the town. This short hike takes around 20 minutes and rewards visitors with stunning views of the Green Mountains and the town of Stowe.

In conclusion, Stowe, Vermont, offers a plethora of activities to enjoy year-round. From scenic drives to historical landmarks to outdoor adventures, there’s something for every single person in your family. A trip to Stowe is not complete without sampling some of their local foods and experiencing the vibrant arts community. And remember, take some time to explore Stowe’s off-the-beaten-path offerings for a unique and unforgettable Vermont experience.