13 Fun & Best Things to Do in Stowe, Vermont

No matter the season, Stowe, Vermont, offers something for visitors from all walks of life.  Whether you’re looking for a great place to go cross-country skiing in the winter, outdoor activities in the summer, a fall foliage tour in autumn, or trout season in the spring — there’s an activity and a stunning view, no matter the temperature or time of year.

Stowe is rich in culture and abundant in activities. Overlooked by the majestic Mount Mansfield, this northern Vermont ski town is a must-see for New England lovers and those seeking the thrill of outdoor adventures any time of year.

With temperatures averaging in the low 20s during the winter and the mid-60s in the summer months, Stowe is a great place to stay cool while experiencing hiking, biking, skiing, and fishing all year round. Keep reading for all the fun things to do in Stowe, Vermont, and the best things to do, whether traveling with kids, on a solo trip, or with friends.

TL;DR

Looking to visit Stowe, Vermont? While September through February is the best time to visit for skiing, June through August bring more affordable rates to hike and bike with clear skies and warmer temperatures.

Here are some of the top attractions you can’t miss while you’re here:

• Most significant landmark – Mount Mansfield
• Best park – Stowe Recreation Path
• Best free activity – Moss Glen Falls
• Best activity for kids – Catamount Fishing Adventures
• Best activity for adults – Trapp Family Lodge
• Best food – Piecasso
• Best nightlife – Burt’s Irish Pub
• Best place to stay – Stowe Mountain Resort

Fun & Best Things to do in Stowe, Vermont

The best things to do in Stowe include outdoor activities, local tours, gorgeous waterfalls, hiking trails, and much more. Here are the best places to visit in Stowe, Vermont, that you can’t miss during your visit.

1. Trapp Family Lodge

Address: 700 Trapp Hill Road, Stowe, VT 05672

Looking for a bit of Austrian history in Stowe? Look no further than Trapp Family Lodge, an iconic Austrian family resort whose story is told in the famous movie, The Sound of Music.

The Von Trapp Family fled Austria and came to America in the early 1940s, touring the country as the Von Trapp Family Singers. They eventually settled in Stowe, Vermont, because its majestic mountainscapes reminded the family of their beloved home in Austria.

Settled on 2,500 acres in scenic Stowe, the 96-room alpine lodge has welcomed guests far and wide to experience this beautiful farm with stunning views. Trapp Family Lodge is home to impressive indoor and outdoor amenities, offering villas and guest houses for a memorable stay.

On the resort grounds, guests and visitors can ski, snowshoe, hike, play tennis, mountain bike, take yoga classes, and enjoy a luxurious spa. There are also fascinating historical property tours to learn more about the Von Trapp Family. Explore the Von Trapp Brewery, Maple Sugaring facility, birdwatching, and a hike to the chapel.

See Related: Where To Stay In Stowe, Vermont: 5 Best Areas & Places

2. Moss Glen Falls

Address: 369-615 Moss Glen Falls Road, Stowe, VT 05672

Embark on a quick hike to one of the most breathtaking views in Stowe, Vermont. Moss Glen Falls offers tons of hiking trails and fresh mountain air.

Many visitors recommend wearing hiking boots as some of the areas of the trail can get slippery. Moss Glen Fall is a quick 5-minute drive from the historic Stowe Village and takes about 20 minutes to walk to the falls and back. The short hike is ideal for families with children who are looking to get out and see some stunning views in Stowe, Vermont.

You’ll enjoy a healthy serving of mountain air while witnessing stunning views of the great outdoors in Vermont. This hike is best done in the spring and summer months when the temperature is warm enough for the whole family to join in for a day filled with fun.

If you are interested in the full hike, it takes between 2 and 3 hours and is best for more experienced hikers who are visiting the area. The hike isn’t designed for strollers, so you’re better off leaving the kids at home if you want to hike the full trail.

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3. Local Brewery Tours

Address: Various breweries throughout Stowe and the surrounding areas

Explore the local breweries to experience a unique taste of the Stowe culture and craft brews. There are a few must-visit breweries in the area, and if you can visit them while in town, you won’t be disappointed.

First up is The Alchemist Brewery, a family-run brewery specializing in its flagship double IPA and tasty seasonal offerings. The Alchemist has a beer garden and offers brewery tours to experience their process and expertise firsthand.

Rock Art Brewery is another hot spot, offering flights, pints, and a great time for locals and visitors. Popular brews include the Vermont Hop, Vermont Malt, and other New England IPAs. Enjoy a beer, stroll through their art gallery, and enjoy some tasty pretzels with mustard.

Ten Bends Beer is a short drive to Hyde Park and brews unique craft beer with flavors unique to Vermont’s origin and region. The tasting room offers beer samples, packaged beer to go, and merchandise. Sample a few, find your favorite, and fill a growler to-go.

Stowe Cider offers a massive range of hard apple cider beverages crafted locally in Stowe. Their brewery features a tap room and food trucks, where you can taste a variety of apple cider beverages and try some local Vermont food. Stowe Cider also hosts live events like open mic nights and other live music events.

See Related: Fun & Best Things to Do in Killington, Vermont

4. Mount Mansfield

Address: Mount Mansfield, VT

Mount Mansfield is the highest mountain peak in Vermont, with a summit of 4,395 feet. It’s also an extremely popular cross-country skiing location. The mountain’s silhouette, when viewed from the east or west, has the appearance of an elongated human profile, with a forehead, nose, lips, chin, and Adam’s apple.

At Mount Mansfield, tourists and locals alike enjoy the 4.5-mile toll road journey from the Stowe Base Lodge to “The Nose” and then hike along the ridge to “The Chin.” Mount Mansfield is one of Vermont’s most popular landmarks, and it’s really something to experience for yourself.

Stone Mountain Resort is a popular location on the east flank of the mountain, where many visitors enjoy winter skiing in the colder months.

In the summer, Mount Mansfield has a warm, humid climate, while winters last from November to April with temperatures well below freezing. Take your pick on whether you’d like to hike or ski, and plan your trip accordingly.

While some teenagers may be fine hiking the trails on Mount Mansfield, we do recommend leaving the kids at home if you want to spend the day on the mountain.

Whether you’re there in warm or cold months, Mount Mansfield has something for everyone to enjoy. From hikes to backcountry skiing, you’ll enjoy the stunning views, trails, and slopes on Vermont’s highest peak. This Stowe Mountain Bike Tour will definitely make your day.

For lodging near Mount Mansfield, check out the Little River Inn located on the winter shuttle route. They’ve got an outdoor hot tub that’s perfect after a long day of skiing.

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5. Burt’s Irish Pub

Address: 135 Luce Hill Road, Stowe, VT 05672

You’ve enjoyed a day of skiing, snowshoeing, hiking, or mountain biking, and you’re ready to explore Stowe’s nightlife with a drink in hand.

Burt’s Irish Pub is a laid-back 3-level bar where you can eat, drink, play games, sing karaoke, and even enjoy occasional trivia nights with locals and visitors. With friendly locals running the bar and the kitchen, you’ll feel like you’re right at home at Burt’s.

Try your hand at the pool or darts on the first floor, grab your favorite beer at the bar on the main floor, and head upstairs for live music and karaoke on the third floor.

Burt’s serves Sunday brunch, lunch, and dinner and offers a local vibe to all guests. It’s a dog-friendly pub, so be sure to invite your four-legged friends along.

You may stop in for a beer or a quick bite, but we’re confident you’ll visit again to experience the energy and friendly atmosphere. Best dive bar in Stowe, hands down! After then, you can spend the night at Golden Eagle Resort for the rest you deserve.

See Related:  Fun & Best Things to Do in Bennington, Vermont 

6. Stowe Recreation Path

Address: Begins at Stowe Village (with many additional access points)

The Stowe Recreation Path is a must-see for visitors and is accessible to people of all ages and fitness levels. Enjoy stunning views of fall foliage, streams, the local church, and many amazing views along the way.

Rent bikes or walk the paved 5-mile path and follow along with the streams, trees, and cornfields. The path loops around downtown Stowe alongside breweries, shops, sights of horses, and much more. It’s a great way to see the entire town and an even better way to get some exercise along the way. Two birds, one stone!

Expect to see other bikers, walkers, and joggers along this popular recreational path in Stowe, Vermont. The path is wide enough to share with both walkers and bikers. It’s a great stretch for families of all sizes, solo travelers, couples, and everyone in between.

Pack a lunch to stop at one of the many gorgeous views along the path, go wading in the streams along the way, and enjoy the peace and serenity of being outside in the warmer months with family and friends.

Stowe, Vermont locals and visitors alike enjoy the Stowe Recreation Path for its beautiful views, peaceful setting, and perfect outdoor activity for fitness enthusiasts, cyclers, walkers, and families. If you are looking for things to do in Stowe, Vermont, with kids, the Rec Path is a great choice.

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7. Stowe Mountain Resort

Address: 5781 Mountain Road, Stowe, VT 05672

This iconic Vermont mountain resort is a true four-season destination in the heart of Stowe, Vermont. Enjoy the quintessential New England getaway at Stowe Mountain Resort, regardless of what time of year you stay or what weather is in the forecast. You’ll have a wonderful time no matter what.

In the winter, there’s no better place to enjoy the various winter sports offered on the mountain and the iconic Vermont ski experience than at Stowe Mountain Resort. The top-notch resort features 45 kilometers of cross-country skiing, a scenic gondola ride, ice skating, delicious apple cider, shopping in Spruce Peak Village, dining at the Cliff House, the Fragile Alpine Zone, and much more at the Stowe Mountain Resort in Stowe, Vermont.

If you are traveling with your children, enroll them in ski or snowboarding lessons or drop them off at Cub’s Childcare so you can enjoy a day on the slopes kid-free. At a $201 daily rate, the childcare option accepts children from 24 months to 4 years and is open daily during the winter season.

In the winter, choose from several ski and snowboard passes, depending on how long you are staying.

Stowe, Vermont, is the ski capital of the East Coast, and it’s no surprise why the town has earned this prestigious title. Its New England charm, kind local residents, and amazing slopes and trails keep visitors coming back year after year.

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8. Stowe Mountain Auto Toll Road

Address: Mount Mansfield, Stowe, VT 05489

In the mood for a drive? The historic Auto Toll Road gets you outside to witness some of the most beautiful views in Stowe, Vermont, on Mount Mansfield.

Drive the 4.5 miles up to the summit ridge of Mount Mansfield and all the gorgeous sights along the way. You’ll see the beautiful Lake Champlain and the Adirondack Mountains in the distance.

Park at 3,850 feet at the summit and enjoy breathtaking panoramic views in every direction.

Open daily from May to October, Auto Toll Road opens at 9 am, and uphill traffic stops at 4:30 pm (weather permitting). The Toll Road costs $29 per vehicle, with each passenger costing another $11 each. This road does not permit RVs, motorcycles, trailers, bicycles, or scooters.

On the drive, you’ll enjoy many different scenic views as you ascend the mountain road. Pack some food and enjoy a picnic once you park at the top.

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9. Catamount Fishing Adventures

Address: 699 Glen Brook Road, Stowe, VT 05672 

Embark on an adventurous fishing excursion in Stowe, Vermont, with Catamount Fishing Adventures. From fly fishing to spin fishing and ice fishing excursions, Catamount is in its 26th year of business and provides tourists with the best experience, no matter the time of year.

Choose from a 4-hour or 8-hour guided tour, and experience the thrill of catching salmon, trout, and bass with a professional fishing guide. In the colder months (December to April), don your angler’s hat and learn how to strategize, pursue, and catch fish beneath the ice in Stowe, Vermont.

There are wade, drift boat, canoe, and motorboat trips available, depending on your preference and how long the tour you choose. You’ll experience the marvel of Vermont lakes and ponds and expect to see species, including northern pike, walleye, lake trout, brown trout, rainbow trout, landlocked salmon, yellow perch, and various panfish.

Children are welcome on this tour, and experience is not necessary. Catamount’s owner, Willy Dietrich, is the primary guide on most tours and is the only guide in the Stowe, Vermont area who offers year-round tours and trips for visitors and locals.

Please note that guests 15 and over must purchase a Vermont fishing license beforehand. Trips vary in price from $225 to $450, depending on the length of your tour and how many guests are attending.

See Related: Fun & Best Things to Do in Montpelier, Vermont

10. Smugglers’ Notch Resort and Outdoor Center

Address: 4323 VT-108, Jeffersonville, VT 05464

Home to two world-class 18-hole disc golf courses, Smugglers’ Notch disc golf is recognized internationally as one of the top disc golf destinations in the country. The course is designed for all ages and abilities, making it a great family outing or for a couple who wants to get out in nature and enjoy some friendly competition.

While you’re on the course, enjoy frosted beverages and snacks if you need to refuel. The 19th hole features a relaxing patio where players can take a load off and cool off with a cold beer and some great food. Whether you’re a disc golf first-timer or you tour the country to find the best courses, Smugglers’ Notch is a worthy spot either way.

The resort offers many other family-friendly summer activities, including a Farmer’s market, zip line, llama treks, boating, mountain biking, and so much more. Hike a few waterfalls, enjoy the beautiful scenery at Bingham Falls at Smugglers’ Notch state park, and appreciate the natural beauty and splendor of the great outdoors. In colder months, embark on a day full of skiing, snowboarding, private lessons, and more.

See Related: Fun & Best Things To Do In Woodstock, Vermont

11. Piecasso

Address: 1899 Mountain Road, Stowe, VT 05672

Craving Italian food? Plan to enjoy at least one dinner at Piecasso, Stowe’s most popular pizza joint. It has everything you could ever want from a casual Italian restaurant.

With tasty menu items, including the meatball parmesan sub, fettuccine Alfredo, calzones, strombolis, and all the classic pizzas you know and love, everyone in your party will find something to eat at Piecasso.

It’s also a family-owned business whose owners value family, locally sourced products, and the importance of community. Piecasso offers a family-friendly atmosphere, a tasty kids’ menu, and a great meal for everyone who stops in. Along with fantastic food, Piecasso serves delicious craft cocktails like the strawberry jalapeno margarita, blackberry sage mule, and an impressive beer and wine list.

See Related: Fun & Best Things to Do in Brattleboro, Vermont

12. Idletyme Brewing Company

Address: 1859 Mountain Rd, Stowe, VT 05672

The craft beer scene in Stowe, Vermont, is impressive no matter what part of the world you’re from. Idletyme Brewing Company (ITBC) is one of Vermont’s local watering holes that features a craft beer list, a full menu, event space, and more.

ITBC’s traditional take on classic European brewing with a healthy dose of the Vermont hop culture has produced some of the tastiest double IPAs, lagers, and ales the state has ever seen. Locals and tourists alike flock to ITBC for craft beers and great energy.

While you’re there, enjoy some of their most popular menu items, including lobster ravioli, a pub burger, and cheddar fritters. Besides beer, ITBC has a delicious cocktail menu and mouthwatering desserts, like fried donut holes and a chocolate torte.

It may seem like a brewery, but it’s really so much more. Within walking distance of the Stowe Recreation Path, Idletyme Brewing Company offers a refreshing place to wet your whistle, share a meal, and get a taste of local culture. In the warmer months, enjoy the beer garden for some fresh air in a welcoming setting. Here is a Stowe Local Brewery Tour you can book.

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13. Sunset Rock

Address: The end of Sunset Ave, Stowe, VT 05672

Right in the heart of Stowe’s historic village lies the beginning of Sunset Ridge Trail, near the end of Sunset Street. Sunset Rock is a perfect choice if you’re in the mood for a short, enjoyable hike.

Ascend about 200 yards to enjoy stunning views from the Rock and a bird’s eye view of Main Street. Keep walking to explore the Glacial Kettle Hole, formed nearly 10,000 years ago as glaciers in the area receded and filled the valley below.

Walk another quarter-mile to witness the Upper Overlook with a great view of Mount Mansfield. With views everywhere you look, Sunset Ridge Trail is a great way to spend an hour or two during your stay in Stowe.

Sunset Ridge Trail is an ideal hike for families with young children to pack a lunch and enjoy a picnic. The hike in its entirety should take around one hour and is around 1 mile.

See Related: Fun & Best Things to Do in Dorset, Vermont

Getting Around Stowe, Vermont

While it is a small town, navigating Stowe, Vermont, is most conveniently done by car. Depending on where you’re traveling from, you can rent vehicles from carriers at Burlington International Airport.

Ridesharing options in Stowe, Vermont, are limited, and we don’t recommend relying on Uber or Lyft to get you around during your visit. Lyft has more options in the greater Vermont area if you have plans to explore areas other than Stowe. 

Taxi services are available but can add up quickly if you are staying more than a few days and have an itinerary full of plans around town.

In the spring and summer months, Stowe, Vermont, can be easily traveled by bike, particularly shorter distances that are accessible by the Rec Path and the downtown Stowe area.

Explore car rental options from Booking.com.

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