Kristina Clark

Stowe is one of those quintessential Vermont towns that always keeps us coming back for more; especially because it is so kid friendly. If you are looking to venture to Vermont, it’s a must add to your travel itinerary. There is so much to do in Stowe all year but I would suggest traveling sometime between summer and winter (my favorite is Autumn for the leaf peeping). Spring in Vermont is what the locals would call mud season due to melting snow and some trails you want to hike may be impacted or closed. Summer tends to be the most affordable with a ton to do. Prices generally trend upward in the fall and peak in winter for ski season.

Every time we travel to Stowe, we’re sure to find something new along the way. Vermont sights are spread out (anticipate 20min-1hr drives between sights) but it’s worth venturing out to the surrounding areas as well! Here are our must sees in and around Stowe!

Where to Stay: 

Spruce Peak- This has become our favorite place to stay in Stowe. The resort has a huge pool that is fabulous for both kids and adults in the summer and overlooks the mountains. The best part is that you can sit back, watch the kids swim and order lunch from your phone right to your chair, a truly relaxing vacation. They served the best hot dog I’ve ever had (trust me, get one!) but there were plenty of healthy options as well and everything was delicious. There is also a bar for adult beverages. Save room for the ice cream sandwiches. My daughter ordered the mint chocolate chip flavor and it was absolutely the best. There are several other restaurants on site as well so you don’t have to strap the kids down and travel to dinner (while praying they don’t fall asleep in the car) if you want to avoid the hassle. Many of the rooms have either a kitchenette or a full kitchen with a stove and dishwasher and a fireplace. There is live music, the cutest shops (we were scoping out some ski equipment for my son), events such as their stargazing hikes, farm to table dining experiences, s’mores by the fire, and you must try a Maple Creemee. Don’t forget to set aside a day to ride the gondola up the mountain! If you prefer to go during ski season, the resort turns into a winter wonderland! They have iceskating, snowmobiles, shows and events, not to forget the ski-on-ski-off mountain access, and so much more.

Green Mountain Inn- The location of this hotel makes it perfect for anyone who prefers to be downtown since it’s an easy walk to many of the shops and restaurants in Stowe’s downtown area. The hotel and rooms are so cute with a historic ambiance. The walls in our room were painted a classic blue color that we used for inspiration to paint an accent wall in our house. The hotel is also family friendly with their pool and s’mores by the fire. I will say, the hallways are a little narrow, we had our double wide stroller last time we were there and quickly realized we couldn’t wheel it through the hallway, we had to fold it up and carry it.

Trapp Family Lodge- Austrian inspired and full of activities all year round. If you are looking for a place to stay that has a ton of outdoorsy activities, Trapp Family Lodge is a great choice for you. Hikes, bike riding, a rock climbing wall and much more make this the perfect choice for adventurers. 

What to do: 

Cold Hollow Cider Mill (Waterbury)- cute store and bakery to snag up some delicious cider donuts, apple cider, and souvenirs

Stowe Cider- a must if you prefer your cider a little stronger, get a cider flight to try them all!

Down town area- cute shops, bakeries, and many good restaurants

Drive route 108 between Stowe and Smugglers’ Notch- This drive has beautiful views and hikes along the way. Note, the drive is a bit windy and you want to make sure your brakes are up to the task.

Hikes- With a 3 and 4 year old (and forgetting our hiking boots), we had to do easier hikes. We did Moss Glenn falls which was a very easy walk with a big reward at the end. There is a steep climb to get a nice view of the falls but we held the little ones hands and they did it just fine. We also did Smugglers’ Cave which was easy for the kids and super cool to see.

Cabot Creamery (Waterbury)- You absolutely need to try the popcorn from the creamery. Both the seriously sharp cheddar cheese and the cheddar caramel flavors are easily some of the best popcorn I have ever had. I still dream about that popcorn!

What to eat: 

Skinny Pancake – known for their delicious crepes either sweet or savory, there’s something for everyone

Whip Bar & Grille – part of the Green Mountain Inn, I enjoyed everything I tried on this menu especially the Gorgonzola-crusted filet. Save room for the Sac de Bon Bon for dessert

von Trapp Brewing Bierhall- fun atmosphere to try a variety of beers and tasty bites. After you eat play some cornhole!

Surrounding Areas: 

First things first, heading up to Stowe can be a trek. If coming from the south (as I do and I suspect some of you will as well) you’ll want to check out these sites for both great food, fun and in my opinion the best way to break up the drive. All of these towns are right off the highway and the stops were easy to find!

Brattleboro:

The Vermont Country Deli – a staple of Vermont, get the Mac ‘n’ Cheese!

Retreat Farm – a few miles off the highway, some easy walking trails to see farm animals in an educational setting and very family friendly!

Quechee:

Simon Pierce (Resturant) – Known for their glassware, inside is a wonderful restaurant offering farm to table meals. If you are looking for an incredible meal, with some wonderful river views, along with fabulous glassware/sculptures, check it out!

Quechee Gorge – Here is the deepest Gorge in Vermont. It’s a 1.3mile hike with a beautiful view along the river.

Woodstock:

Sugarbush Farm- This attraction is a little off the beaten path, and they know it! The road is marked with some signage to let you know you’re going the right way and it’s just a little farther. Not just a maple sugar farm, but they also have animals around the property to really immerse yourself in the Vermont atmosphere!

I suggest setting aside a day if you can to venture to the west of Stowe to see the following towns and sites especially if you have young kids!

Burlington:

Church Street Marketplace- great food, and shopping
Echo center- science museum, there is something for kids of all ages.

Shelburne:

Vermont Teddy Bear- Take a tour to see how the Teddy bears are made and go home with a brand new friend for your little one.

Shelburne Farm- This was so fun for kids especially those interested in learning about the farm or animals. My kids were in heaven petting the animals and bottle feeding calves. Check their website or visit the store for daily events.

Other notes: Try all things Maple 🍁 – try the Maple Seltzer, enjoy a Maple Creemee or two (soft serve ice cream to non-Vermonters), support the local farmers and bring some local VT maple syrup home!