Vermont, a quintessential New England state, transforms into a breathtaking tapestry of color each autumn. The rolling hills, verdant forests, and charming villages become awash in fiery hues of red, orange, and yellow, creating a spectacle that draws visitors from around the globe. Choosing the right accommodation can significantly enhance your leaf-peeping experience. Whether you prefer a secluded inn, a conveniently located hotel, or even a grand estate, Vermont offers a variety of options to immerse yourself in the seasonal splendor. For those seeking a truly intimate connection with nature, pitching a tent or parking an RV at one of the local parks, such as Underhill State Park or the expansive Green Mountain National Forest, provides an unforgettable experience.
September and October mark the peak season throughout New England, so advance booking is essential for hotels, Airbnbs, and campsites alike. Predicting the precise timing of peak foliage can be challenging, as it varies slightly from year to year. However, the most vibrant fall colors in Vermont typically grace the landscape from late September to early October.
If your leaf-peeping adventures extend beyond Vermont, don’t overlook the stunning fall foliage displays in neighboring states like Connecticut, Maine, Massachusetts, New Hampshire, and New York.
Here are seven of the best places to stay in Vermont to witness the magic of fall:
1. Rabbit Hill Inn (Lower Waterford)
Nestled in Vermont’s serene Northeast Kingdom, the Rabbit Hill Inn provides a cozy and romantic escape for your fall foliage getaway. This historic inn, dating back to 1795, exudes charm and tranquility, making it the perfect base for exploring the region’s scenic beauty.
The Rabbit Hill Inn offers 19 meticulously appointed guest rooms, each designed to provide a unique and luxurious experience. The décor styles range from traditional New England elegance to more contemporary aesthetics, ensuring a perfect match for every taste. All rooms feature private bathrooms, with select rooms offering indulgent amenities such as whirlpool tubs, hydromassage tubs for two, or oversized spa showers. For an added touch of romance, most rooms and suites boast personal fireplaces, creating a warm and inviting ambiance.
Beyond the exquisite accommodations, the Rabbit Hill Inn excels in providing exceptional culinary experiences. The dining room serves both breakfast and dinner, showcasing locally sourced ingredients and innovative menus. After a day of exploring the vibrant foliage, kayaking on nearby lakes, hiking through scenic trails, or indulging in brewery-hopping adventures, guests can unwind with expertly crafted cocktails, delectable cuisine, and simple pleasures like engaging in puzzles and board games in the inn’s cozy common areas. This location is perfect if you are seeking an adult-only atmosphere and a bit of quiet relaxation. The 7 Best Places to Stay in Vermont This Fall should always include a romantic getaway.
2. Wilburton Inn (Manchester)
The Wilburton Inn, steeped in history and surrounded by natural beauty, offers a unique and memorable experience in Manchester, Vermont. Originally a private mansion, this grand estate spans 30 picturesque acres, inviting guests to explore its scenic grounds and immerse themselves in the fall foliage.
Beyond the vibrant foliage, the Wilburton Inn offers a unique cultural experience. Dr. Albert Levis, who acquired the property in 1987 and continues to manage it with his family, showcases his eclectic sculpture collection throughout the inn’s grounds. These artistic creations add a touch of whimsy and intrigue to the already stunning landscape.
The hilltop location of the Wilburton Inn boasts 27 individually decorated and spacious guest rooms, including some within the original mansion. Each room exudes its own distinct character and charm, ensuring a comfortable and memorable stay. Rates include a full country breakfast, providing a hearty start to your day of exploring. The inn also offers dog-friendly rooms, allowing you to bring your beloved four-legged companion along for the adventure. For larger groups, villas and vacation rental homes are available nearby, providing ample space and privacy. Finding the 7 Best Places to Stay in Vermont This Fall can sometimes be difficult, but the Wilburton Inn offers an array of unique features.
3. The Wildflower Inn (Lyndonville)
Located in the heart of Vermont’s Northeast Kingdom, The Wildflower Inn offers a delightful blend of charm, family-friendliness, and breathtaking scenery. This village-like inn provides easy access to the renowned Kingdom Trails network, a haven for mountain bikers and outdoor enthusiasts.
The Wildflower Inn’s setting resembles a charming village, with classic buildings housing a variety of rooms and suites perfect for couples and families alike. The inn is surrounded by 300 acres of pristine natural beauty, offering endless opportunities for exploration and adventure. For a truly unique experience, consider staying in the School House Cottage, a lovingly restored one-room schoolhouse that once served the local community.
Create lasting fall memories with a horse-drawn wagon ride through the colorful countryside, a leisurely hike in the surrounding woods, or a scenic drive to the summit of Burke Mountain. The Wildflower Inn also offers enticing fall foliage mid-week packages, featuring special deals and planned excursions to witness the most vibrant leaf colors in Vermont, New Hampshire, and even Quebec, Canada. Remember to pack your passport for this international adventure!
4. Quality Inn at Quechee Gorge
The Quality Inn at Quechee Gorge offers a comfortable and convenient base for exploring one of Vermont’s most iconic natural wonders: Quechee Gorge. This nearby hotel provides familiar comforts and amenities, making it an excellent choice for families seeking a memorable fall getaway.
Quechee Gorge, often referred to as "Vermont’s Grand Canyon," is a must-see destination for photographers and nature enthusiasts alike. The dramatic gorge, carved by the Ottauquechee River, becomes even more spectacular during the fall foliage season, with vibrant colors cascading down its steep slopes.
The Quality Inn at Quechee Gorge features an indoor heated pool, providing a relaxing escape after a day of exploring. Guests can also enjoy a complimentary full breakfast, setting them up for a day of adventure. Nature lovers will appreciate the hotel’s easy access to the hiking trails of Quechee State Park, which bursts into a kaleidoscope of fall colors beginning in late September. Another highlight for families is the Vermont Institute of Natural Science (VINS), located in Quechee, which offers engaging exhibits and programs for visitors of all ages.
5. The Mountain Top Inn & Resort (Chittenden)
For those seeking an immersive outdoor experience, The Mountain Top Inn & Resort near Killington in Chittenden, Vermont, offers an unforgettable fall foliage adventure. This sprawling resort provides a unique opportunity to explore the vibrant landscape on horseback.
The Mountain Top Inn & Resort is nestled high atop a central Vermont mountain, encompassing 700 private acres of woods and meadows alongside a pristine lake. The resort’s Equestrian Center offers guided trail rides for all skill levels, including beginners, allowing guests to experience the beauty of the fall foliage from a unique perspective.
Accommodations at The Mountain Top Inn & Resort range from rooms in the main lodge to luxurious cabins and guesthouses, providing options for every preference and group size. After a day of admiring the autumn colors, guests can unwind in the heated outdoor swimming pool, relax at the spa, or enjoy kayaking on the tranquil lake.
6. The Equinox Golf Resort & Spa (Manchester Village)
The Equinox Golf Resort & Spa, a historic and elegant property in Manchester Village, offers a sophisticated base for exploring Vermont’s fall foliage. Founded in 1769 and now part of the Marriott Luxury Collection, The Equinox boasts a challenging mountain-view golf course and a wealth of amenities.
The resort’s prime location in the Green Mountains provides easy access to scenic drives, hiking trails, and charming villages adorned with fall colors. The Equinox offers luxurious accommodations, on-site dining at five venues ranging from a steakhouse to the historic Marsh Tavern, and a full-service spa for ultimate relaxation.
Guests can unwind in the resort’s 75-foot heated indoor pool while enjoying panoramic views of the changing kaleidoscope of colors outdoors. The Equinox Golf Resort & Spa provides a perfect blend of history, luxury, and natural beauty, making it an ideal destination for a memorable fall foliage escape. The 7 Best Places to Stay in Vermont This Fall should always include a touch of luxury.
7. Sugar Lodge at Sugarbush (Warren)
Located near the renowned Sugarbush Ski Resort, the Sugar Lodge at Sugarbush provides a comfortable and convenient option for fall foliage travelers. Ski area lodgings offer unique advantages during the fall season, and the Sugar Lodge is no exception.
After a day of leaf-peeping adventures, guests can relax by the stone fireplace in the lodge’s inviting great room. The Sugar Lodge offers hotel-style amenities while retaining the cozy ambiance of a traditional Vermont country inn. Guests can unwind in the evening while enjoying a drink from the Sugar Lodge bar, which features locally crafted microbrew beers, all while taking in the stunning scenery surrounding the lodge.
The Sugar Lodge is located less than a half-mile from Sugarbush Ski Resort, where fall activities include hiking, mountain biking, golf, and scenic lift rides, providing ample opportunities to experience the beauty of the season. Choosing the 7 Best Places to Stay in Vermont This Fall is no easy task, but Sugar Lodge provides a more relaxed and casual option.
