The 10 Most Beautiful Cities in Vermont
Nestled in the northeastern region of Vermont, Stowe offers a quintessential New England charm that draws visitors year-round. Just a 40-minute drive north from Montpelier, Stowe is famed for its picturesque Main Street lined with classic shops and cozy cafés, but the true allure lies in the nearby Mount Mansfield State Forest. Hiking the Long Trail segment to the summit of Mount Mansfield, Vermont’s highest peak at 4,393 feet, rewards adventurers with sweeping views of the Green Mountains and, on clear days, glimpses of Lake Champlain far below. Fall is particularly magical here, as the forest bursts into vibrant hues of red and gold, making the moderately challenging 6.5-mile round trip trail a favorite for leaf peepers seeking both beauty and a bit of exertion.
In southwestern Vermont, the town of Manchester, roughly an hour south of Burlington, captivates with its blend of historic architecture and outdoor adventure. The nearby Equinox Preservation Trust invites visitors to explore the Equinox Trail, a five-mile round trip that ascends the mountain famously associated with the Equinox Hotel. The trail offers a moderately difficult hike that culminates in a panoramic overlook where you can see the Taconic Range and the Hudson Valley beyond, making it a standout experience for those who appreciate mountain vistas coupled with a rich local history. Spring and summer are ideal for visiting, when wildflowers pepper the trail and the weather is perfect for a picnic at the summit.
Moving to the northeastern part of the state, the town of St. Johnsbury sits about 25 minutes east of Barre and is a treasure trove of artistic and architectural gems. The Fairbanks Museum and Planetarium shines as a highlight, featuring one of the most comprehensive natural science collections in Vermont. Visitors can immerse themselves in exhibits ranging from regional wildlife dioramas to astronomy shows under a state-of-the-art planetarium dome. The museum’s setting, along with its Victorian-era design, adds an old-world charm that complements the educational experience. Winter visits hold a special appeal here, as the snowy landscape outside contrasts beautifully with the warmth and wonder inside.
Middlebury, located approximately 45 minutes southeast of Burlington, charms visitors with its vibrant college-town atmosphere and rich cultural scene. The nearby Middlebury College Museum of Art showcases an impressive collection with pieces by Monet and Picasso, offering a serene place to appreciate fine art amid historic campus buildings. Just outside town, the Otter Creek Falls provide a scenic spot for reflection and photography, especially during spring runoff when the waterfall swells to a thundering spectacle. Late spring and early summer offer the best conditions for both art enthusiasts and nature lovers to soak in Middlebury’s unique blend of culture and landscape.
Farther south, Brattleboro lies along the Connecticut River about 90 minutes southeast of Burlington and is celebrated for its lively arts scene and historic downtown. The Brattleboro Museum & Art Center invites visitors to explore contemporary exhibitions alongside works that capture Vermont’s rural heritage. Strolling in the downtown area, it’s impossible to miss the vibrant murals and independent galleries that give the town a bohemian flair. Autumn brings an especially inviting ambiance as local farmers’ markets overflow with fresh produce, and crisp evenings encourage cozy nights in one of the town’s many intimate cafés.
Heading north to the shores of Lake Champlain, Burlington offers an urban yet nature-infused experience roughly 45 minutes west of Stowe. The Burlington Waterfront Park stretches along the lake’s edge and is perfect for leisurely walks, cycling, or catching a sunset over the Adirondack Mountains across the water. The nearby Church Street Marketplace pulses with energy, featuring outdoor dining, street performers, and local artisans. Summer is prime time here when the waterfront buzzes with festivals, and the long daylight hours make lakeside exploration especially enjoyable.
In the heart of the Green Mountains, Barre is about a 30-minute drive northeast from Montpelier and known as the “Granite Center of the World.” The Rock of Ages Quarry tours offer a unique glimpse into the city’s industrial heritage where massive blocks of granite are still extracted. Walking through the Quarry Park, visitors witness the artistry of stone sculptors and can appreciate the imposing scale of the open-pit mine, distinguished from other Vermont towns by its rugged industrial beauty. Late spring and early fall, with mild weather and blooming wildflowers, create an appealing backdrop for quarry visits and exploring Barre’s historic downtown.
To the east, the town of Montpelier, Vermont’s capital, sits centrally in the state and is just a short drive from the scenic Hubbard Park. This 194-acre woodlands preserve features the Stone Tower Trail, an easy 1.5-mile loop offering panoramic views of the city and the surrounding Green Mountains from the stone observation tower. Montpelier’s small size and vibrant farmers’ market scene make it a welcoming place for visitors who want to combine outdoor activity with local culture. Early fall, when the leaves are just turning, is an especially picturesque time to enjoy Hubbard Park’s trails and Montpelier’s welcoming streetscape.
In Orange County, the historic village of Woodstock, about an hour southeast of Barre, enchants with its well-preserved 19th-century charm. The Marsh-Billings-Rockefeller National Historical Park offers a guided journey into Vermont’s conservation history through the beautifully maintained estate and surrounding forest trails. The park’s Carriage Roads provide gentle hiking routes through woodlands with interpretive signage about sustainable land management, setting it apart as a living museum of Vermont’s environmental legacy. Visiting in late spring or early fall allows travelers to experience the estate’s gardens in full bloom or the spectacular foliage as it peaks.
Finally, Middlebury’s neighboring village of Vergennes, roughly 20 minutes north, stands as Vermont’s smallest city but pulses with historic character and access to natural beauty. The nearby Otter Creek State Park provides peaceful hiking trails along the creek, fishing spots, and picnic areas set against rolling hills. Vergennes distinguishes itself with its quaint downtown, featuring classic New England architecture and a sense of quiet community. Summer afternoons, when the park’s shaded trails offer respite from the heat and boats drift lazily on the creek, make Vergennes a serene retreat from the busier hubs.
These Vermont towns and their surrounding landscapes offer a rich tapestry of experiences—from mountain summits and riverfront strolls to historic estates and vibrant arts scenes—each inviting visitors to immerse themselves in the state’s timeless beauty and welcoming spirit.