While Vermont is renowned for its scenic beauty and autumn colors, the state also has quaint small towns that are usually not visited by tourists. Below are 11 charming towns in Vermont that are worth including in your travel plan:
1. Grafton
Location: Windham County
Features: A fairy-tale village with old buildings, art galleries, and a peaceful rural atmosphere. It’s ideal for a peaceful retreat.
Must-See: Grafton Village Cheese Company and the Grafton Trails & Outdoor Center.
2. Woodstock
Location: Windsor County
Features: Famous for its covered bridges, lively downtown, and quaint boutiques, Woodstock is quintessential New England at its best.
Must-See: Billings Farm & Museum and the Middle Covered Bridge.
3. Dorset
Location: Bennington County
Features: Peaceful town with marble sidewalks, historic inns, and an active artistic community.
Must-See: Dorset Quarry for a cool swim and Dorset Theatre Festival for live theater.
4. Montgomery
Location: Franklin County
Features: The town is noted for its seven covered bridges and close proximity to Jay Peak to ski and hike.
Must-Visit: Montgomery Center and Jay Peak Resort.
5. Chester
Location: Windsor County
Features: Famously known for its Stone Village Historic District, Chester is comfortable with its cozy inns as well.
Must-Visit: Stone House Antique Center and Vermont Institute of Contemporary Arts.
6. Waitsfield
Location: Washington County
Features: A paradise for outdoor lovers, Waitsfield is situated in the middle of the Mad River Valley with trails for hiking, biking, and skiing.
Must-Visit: Lareau Farm (American Flatbread) and Mad River Glen Ski Area.
7. Stowe
Location: Lamoille County
Features: A ski town, but equally beautiful in warmer times with its trails, stores, and restaurants.
Must-Visit: Stowe Recreation Path and the Trapp Family Lodge.
8. Brandon
Location: Rutland County
Features: The “Art & Soul of Vermont,” Brandon is full of galleries, boutiques, and local artists.
Must-Visit: Brandon Artists Guild and Neshobe River Winery.
9. Middlebury
Location: Addison County
Features: Vibrant college town with a combination of history, culture, and nature, Middlebury is Vermont’s crown jewel.
Must-Visit: Middlebury College Museum of Art and Otter Creek Falls.
10. Shelburne
Location: Chittenden County
Features: A quaint lakeside town with a blend of farm heritage, arts, and family attractions.
Must-Visit: Shelburne Museum and Shelburne Farms.
11. Norwich
Location: Windsor County
Features: A traditional town with historic character and a good sense of community, ideal for families and those who love history.
Must-Visit: Montshire Museum of Science and Dan & Whit’s General Store.
Each of these Vermont towns has a distinct combination of natural beauty, cultural depth, and small-town warmth, making them ideal places for those who want to slow down and experience the real thing.
