15 Enchanted Vermont Villages Where Winter Wonders Await
Something magical comes to life in Vermont’s winter months when snow fills every inch of the rolling hills and tree-lined streets. Picturesque villages of the Green Mountain State appear through the snow-dusted landscapes, charming inns, and burning fires. It’s a perfect time for exploring and having fun in wintertime.
From the breeze climbing trees blowing white clouds across the hills to the warm aroma of hot cocoa steaming up a window, these 15 Vermont villages lay the groundwork that makes winter dreamy. Depending on whether you like your winter to be cold enough to ski, warm sufficient to snowshoe, or somewhere in between to admire the historic charm, these towns have something to make winter wanderers, nature lovers, and adventurers do a happy dance.
Stowe
Stowe is often called the “Ski Capital of the East,” and for good reason. Located at the foot of Vermont’s highest peak, Mount Mansfield, Stowe narrows down as the best skiing and snowboarding destination in New England. But outside of its slopes, the town’s quaint downtown is lined with boutique shops and artisanal cafes.
Make sure you visit the Vermont Ski and Snowboard Museum to taste the area’s many winter sports traditions. Pro tip: The Stowe Mountain Resort features a gondola with beautiful views over a snow-covered landscape.
Woodstock
Woodstock is a prototypical New England village famous for its picture-perfect charm. The town’s centerpiece is the Woodstock Inn, where you can warm up by fire after wandering the Marsh-Billings-Rockefeller National Historical Park.
Finish your day by braving Saskadena Six, formerly Suicide Six Ski Area, or snowshoeing in peace. The area is also renowned for its Wassail Weekend holiday festival, which features horse-drawn carriages and carolers.
Manchester
Manchester offers all that outdoorsy travel and a little more luxury if that’s what you want in your winter retreat. Manchester effortlessly blends the best of class and thrill from its invigorating outlet stores to Bromley and Stratton Mountains slopes just a short drive away.
Hildene, the Lincoln Family Home, is gorgeously dressed for winter, and the town itself is steeped in history and has landmarks.
Middlebury
Middlebury has both the quaintness of its historic beauty and the college energy. It’s a university town, home to Middlebury College, and life still buzzes in the cold months.
For cross-country skiing lovers, the nearby Rikert Nordic Center has miles of wonderfully groomed trails. You can walk through the historic downtown, have a pastry at a local bakery, and check out Otter Creek Falls all winter in its frozen splendor.
Shelburne
Shelburne, on the historic banks of Lake Champlain, is a scenic vista that’s just the perfect winter escape. On the other hand, Shelburne Farms—a landmark estate—is under the snowy charm and speaks a unique cultural experience, similar to other famous estates you’ll find worldwide. You’d feel like you have walked into a vintage postcard.
Waitsfield
Waitsfield, one of the Mad River Valley’s artistic and alpine draws, is nestled there. There are exhilarating runs for all skill levels at Sugarbush Resort and Mad River Glen.
Once the slopes have been carved up, head into the village to check out the galleries and visit with local artists who draw the region from picture book scenery. Be sure to hit the covered bridges that pepper the valley for an authentic Vermont experience.
Montpelier
Of course, it’s the nation’s smallest state capital, but it’s not the least charming. Boutique shops, farm-to-table dining, and a closely knit community warm a welcome. During a winter hike, explore Hubbard Park and then check out the golden-domed State House before a light snowfall adds magic.
Grafton
Lovingly preserved historic buildings and picture-perfect streets make Grafton the epitome of New England charm.
The Grafton Trails & Outdoor Center offers winter activities like cross-country skiing and sleigh rides. To finish your day, visit Grafton Village Cheese Company for some buttery cheddar to enjoy by the fire.
Brattleboro
A progressive, artsy, vibrant mix of historic charm, its snow-laced streets are lined with galleries and bookstores, perfect for a lazy winter’s day. Several hiking and snowshoeing trails fill the town, which outdoor fans will also enjoy.
Bennington
Winter in Bennington is known for being a fascinating destination. The Bennington Battle Monument is worth bundling up, as are many local antique shops, all of which can be visited in one day. Miles of trails alongside the surrounding mountains invite cross-country skiing or snowmobiling.
Ludlow
Okemo Mountain Resort makes Ludlow a skier’s delight. There is plenty to love, even for non-skiers, with quaint cafes, a look over a scenic lake, and snowy hikes. Frozen in winter, a serene, picture-perfect scene greets you with Buttermilk Falls nearby.
Chester
Stepping into a Norman Rockwell painting is how Chester feels. The collection of historic buildings, some clad in bright green covering bridges, attracts visitors to this small village.
And, around here, there’s an equal delight to be found snowshoeing through nearby forests or curling in a cozy inn with a good book.
Rutland
Rutland is a center for both winter sports and a cozy cultural experience. With its neighboring Killington Resort, Pico Mountain features some of the finest skiing the area offers.
Twinkling lights highlight the streets, and the community comes out for holiday cheer: don’t miss the Downtown Rutland Holiday Stroll.
Barre
Barre, known as the “Granite Capital of the World,” offers winter fun with a dose of artistry. Spend your day at the Rock of Ages granite quarry, or if you are hoping to snowshoe, head to the nearby Millstone Trails.
Burlington
The list of Vermont villages would not be complete without Burlington. During winter, the state’s largest city feels like a cozy town.
Plenty of cute Christmas shops exist, like the two at the Church Street Marketplace. The Lake Champlain winter views are unforgettable, and the cup of hot chocolate from a local café is epic.
Disclaimer – This list is solely the author’s opinion based on research and publicly available information.
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