If you'd like to do something special with your family that includes seeing the fall foliage in Vermont, take a horseback ride at Lajoie Stables in Jeffersonville. As the only stable in Vermont that's open year-round, all you need is a reservation and a love of horses. Since Lajoie Stables offers rides for all levels, everyone in your family can join in the fun and soak up the splendor of the fall foliage in Vermont.
Since Lajoie Stables is 45 minutes from Burlington and 10 minutes from Smugglers' Notch, it's a popular destination for a day trip.
The stables are open year-round. In addition to horseback riding in the fall, you can take a sleigh ride in the winter or enjoy the fresh air and green scenery in the spring and summer.
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The stables boast the most spectacular backdrop for fall photos in Vermont. Aside from the Green Mountains, you'll be near Black Creek.
Children of all ages will have a blast bonding with their new four-legged friends while experiencing nature and the fall foliage.
Get ready to have fun checking out the breathtaking landscapes from a different vantage point, (than you would if you were hiking), as you ride the trail on your horse.
At the end of the ride, be sure to thank and hug your horse for hanging out with you during the day.
But the fun doesn't stop with goodbye. Stop and visit with Chippy and Vegas, two adorable miniature horses, who enjoy pets before snapping photos of the stables' free-range chickens. If you'd like to buy farm-fresh eggs, make your way to the front office.
Have you gone horseback riding in Vermont to see the fall foliage at Lajoie Stables? Let us know in the comments. Up for more leaf-peeping adventures? Take the less than five-mile drive from Lajoie Stables to Brewster River Gorge.
Where & When To See Fall Foliage In Vermont
We all know how busy Vermont, one of the top spots in the United States to go leaf-peeping, gets during the fall foliage, especially during its peak. That makes planning our autumn adventures ahead of time essential. When the leaves change colors in Vermont varies, but if you want to catch the fall foliage at its peak, plan to visit between late September and early October. Here are the best times to visit Vermont’s fall foliage in 2024.
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Finding the best fall foliage in Vermont is as easy as walking outside. However, if you’re up for an autumn adventure, spend a day at one of Vermont’s 52 state parks; set off on a hike on one of the dozens of trails that wind through Green Mountain National Forest, or take a scenic drive along a winding country road.
Know Before You Go
Open seven days a week year-round, Lajoie Stables welcomes both new and experienced horseback riders. Reservations are required and can be made by calling the stables at 802-644-5347. You can also call for the latest prices.
Whether you need to fuel up before or after your ride, you won’t find a more adorable – or delicious – spot than the Burger Barn in Jeffersonville. This tiny roadside shack grills some of the best burgers in Vermont. The menu features nearly three dozen burgers, from classic hamburgers and cheeseburgers to taco burgers and garlic burgers. Pair your burger with fries, onion rings, fried dill pickles, or fried mushrooms for a hearty meal.
With all the leaf-peeping fun that awaits in Jeffersonville, turn that day trip into a weekend getaway by booking a local Airbnb. Surround yourself with the colors of fall when you check into the one-bedroom, one-bathroom bunkhouse. Tucked on 200 acres and flanked by trees, the barn offers nearly three dozen amenities, but it’s the property that will leave you in awe. Stroll along meandering paths past apple orchards, fields, and a landscape painted in shades of red, orange, and gold.
There are plenty of things to do in Vermont in the fall, in fact, I think it might be one of the best places in the country to visit this autumn. When it comes to Vermont in the fall, I can’t think of a season that is represented so well. The forests are ablaze with color and the heat of the summer slowly fades away giving us this most wonderful season. So grab a pumpkin-spiced latte and get ready to find some of the "best fall activities near me" as I take you on this journey through the mountains of Vermont in autumn.
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Vermont Fall Foliage: Where To Go In Vermont For Fall Foliage
The best places to visit in Vermont in the fall all center around finding the best places to see the beautiful colored leaves. The Green Mountain State is known far and wide for some of the best fall foliage in the country, so it shouldn’t be hard to find some amazing places for some leaf peeping. You will most likely want to plan your trip for around the first two weeks of October to see the peak of the season, and then head to any of these breathtaking spots.
Location: This mountain ranges through most of the state.
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Wow Factor: The Green Mountains offer some of the highest peaks in Vermont.
Need To Know: From small towns, scenic drives, and hikes, there is no bad way to see the leaves change.
I know this is a pretty broad statement, but it's tough to deny the beauty all throughout the Green Mountains. You might find yourself overlooking the mountains from a scenic drive far off or nestled into the mountains in a charming small town, but either way, these mountains have plenty of views. If you prefer to take your leave peeping on two feet, then there is a wide variety of hiking trails where you can see an enchanting forest sprinkling down autumn colors and crunchy leaves.
Need To Know: Make sure you park and walk down to the bottom of the gorge for some of the best views.
The first time we drove over the bridge for the Quechee Gorge, we made a note to make sure to come back when we had time to explore the area more. These kinds of finds always get me excited on road trips and the reason I will always try to enjoy the journey along the way. When we came back, we made sure to hike the trails and get down to the bottom of the gorge which has the best view of this massive natural wonder. The dam on the top part of the gorge offers a ferocious waterfall to view. Plus, the forest itself is gorgeous. The only thing that makes this place better is to have it washed with colors of red, orange, and yellow. Make this scenic area even better by coming in the fall.
Need To Know: Find a good spot by the shore and enjoy.
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Lake Champlain is the largest lake in New England and is mostly thought of as a summer recreation spot, but it shouldn’t be discounted in the fall. When we visited the area, we were blown away by the sheer size. There are so many places to just sit down and enjoy the view, but my favorite spot was at Chimney Point. The bridge leading over into New York was stunning and the distant mountains offered some fantastic fall foliage. It was a warm early fall day and we packed a picnic. This is one peaceful spot I would recommend on any leaf-peeping trip. However, you really can’t go wrong with scenic views of this lake.
Wow Factor: Home of the most photographed barn in New England.
Need To Know: The road leading to the famous farm is closed during peak season due to too much traffic.
This is my absolute favorite area in all of Vermont. From Quechee to Woodstock and everything in between, you can’t get a more quintessential spot in the fall than this. Every direction you turn, you will be greeted with fall foliage; it truly is a feast for the eyes. This charming little town is filled with dirt roads leading to picturesque farms and rolling hills. The town certainly won me over when we visited and after a local woman was kind enough to point out all the hidden gems in Woodstock, we felt like we got the royal treatment for a full Vermont fall experience.
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Best Pumpkin Patches In Vermont
When the leaves start to change so does the decor, so it will be that time of year again to find the best pumpkin patches in Vermont. Whether you are looking to decorate your front step with some plump orange gourds or seeking a good jack-o-lantern these spots will be the best of the best for pumpkins.
Wow Factor: More than just a pumpkin patch, get some apples, pears, and more.
Need To Know: Burtt’s Apple Orchard is basically your one-stop shop for everything fall.
When it comes to autumn two things I always crave are a freshly picked apple and a charming fall farm, you will find both at Burtt’s Apple Orchard and so much more. This can be your fall destination from picking pumpkins to taking a bite of a warm freshly baked cider donut. Kids can play on the playground, find their way through the corn maze, and partake in classic fall fun at Burtt’s Apple Orchard. So make like a jack-o-lantern and carve out some time for a day at this wonderful Vermont farm.
Wow Factor: A massive fall destination filled with events throughout the fall.
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Need To Know: Keep an eye on their schedule of events since they host many of them for the fall.
While the leaves are dying Sam Mazza’s comes alive during the fall! This is another one of those must-see places during the autumn months with plenty of scheduled events to keep you busy. Get lost in the massive corn maze, partake in the age-old tradition of a hay ride, or see some of the biggest pumpkins in Vermont. Browse through the fresh produce in the farmers market and pick your own perfect pumpkin for the season. There is no place in the Green Mountain State quite like Sam Mazza’s.
Wow Factor: The best variety of pumpkins in Vermont.
Need To Know: A humble and homey vibe New England farm.
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A humble and beautiful family farm is what Vermont’s autumn season is all about. At the Parker Family Farm, you will find some of the best pumpkins in the state on display to buy. Everything from warty to smooth, fat, or tall, you can find it here. Pick out some decorative fall decor, but don’t miss out on the sweets they produce as well. The fudge will lure you in with the smell alone. Take a bite of this rich and soft delicacy and you will be hooked. The Parker Family Farm is a quintessential stop for any Vermont fall trip.
Best Fall Festivals In Vermont
I think the fall is one of the best times to visit the Green Mountain State. There are quaint little farms, rolling hills of fiery colors, and some of the best fall festivals in Vermont come back again for their annual showing. Everything from artistic inspiration to throwing pumpkins is part of the great list of Vermont fall activities we can look forward to this year.
Wow Factor: A long-standing fall tradition for this small town in Vermont.
Need To Know: You will find art, baked goods, live entertainment, and more.
The Newfane Heritage Festival has been going strong for over 50 years. This small-town celebration is an event worth attending to see a charming community gather for this beloved event. Allow the smell of wafting baked goods to lure you in and then stay to see the creative handy work of many New England artists. With the promise of music and fun for two whole days, this is a gathering you won’t want to miss.
9. Harvest Celebration at Billings Farm - Woodstock
Wow Factor: A beautiful small town farm with tons of fun fall activities.
Need To Know: A festival that is equally a pretty farm and family fun.
When I first visited the Billings Farm it was during the fall. I couldn’t believe how pretty the farm looked framed by the rolling hills filled with fiery trees and autumn colors. The Jersey cows were honestly some of the most gorgeous cows I have ever seen. This is the setting for the Harvest Celebration and is one of the most educational and fun festivals in the state. This two-day event will have hayrides, demonstrations on pressing apples for cider, pumpkin bowling, and so much more. In between activities you can even take advantage of the trails on the property for a stunning fall hike.
Need To Know: Watch pumpkins get launched with trebuchets what more could you ever want?
Vermont is known for a few things like the colorful scenery in the fall, artistic expressions, and quaint small town living, but to me, the Vermont Pumpkin Chuckin’ Festival is the most “Vermont” thing you can do this fall. Teams show up and bring large medieval-style trebuchets to launch pumpkins at large distances. Nothing beats an afternoon of some wanton destruction and nothing quite brings joy like seeing everyone's favorite autumn decoration soar through the air before it gets smashed into a million pieces. There will be food trucks, tournaments, music, and maybe even a large robot! But at the end of the day, we just want to throw some pumpkins. So make your way to Stowe this fall for a crazy good time at the Vermont Pumpkin Chuckin’ Festival.
Wow Factor: Everything you could want for a small town fair.
Need To Know: There is a small fee for entry.
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The Peru Fair is the golden standard for small town fall festivals. This fair has been an annual treat for Vermonters for over 40 years, and the charm that started in the 70s echoes through time and can still be found to this day. You will find vendors showcasing their artistic and creative talents, delicious food, and live music to serenade you while you are surrounded by the good community of Peru. This is a one-day event so make sure to mark your calendars and head on out to the wonderful Peru Fair.
Free & Cheap Vermont Fall Activities
No matter your budget, there are plenty of Vermont fall activities to enjoy without breaking the bank.
Wow Factor: Historical bridges with a fall backdrop, sign me up!
Need To Know: There are more than 100 covered bridges in Vermont.
When we first arrived in Vermont, I didn’t really plan on seeking out covered bridges, but after talking to a local who told me all the spots around to find them, we took off on an adventure. I was so glad we did because these historical bridges were absolutely beautiful and fascinating. Many of them were placed near a dam so we got the benefit of seeing cascading water, the covered bridge, and stunning fall colors. Doing a covered bridge road trip is something I would highly recommend, and with over 100 in this small state, you have a lot of options to find.
Wow Factor: Many of the apple orchards have other activities and fun alongside unimaginable scenery.
Need To Know: Make sure to check your local apple orchard for a schedule of the different apples for when they grow best.
One of my favorite things to do in the fall is to head to an apple orchard and pick my own apples. Every year we make our pilgrimage to our local apple orchard for a sweet crispy treat of a freshly picked apple. Many of the apple orchards also offer fun things like a playground for kids, corn mazes, and activities, so find the closest one to you and bring home a bag full of ripe red and delicious apples. For a classic experience head to one of the oldest apple orchards in the state, Allenholm Farm.
Wow Factor: Nothing beats the look of a classic farm in the rolling hills of Vermont in the fall.
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Need To Know: You can buy anything but make sure you buy the maple syrup, seriously you can thank me later.
The second thing I need to do every fall is visit a farm. Vermont is a great place for farming and the humble agricultural lifestyle is still very alive and well in the countryside. So step away from the towns along dirt roads and experience the smells, tastes, and experiences you will only find on the farm. One of my favorite ones I went to had the best maple syrup and cheese curds, that place was Sugarbush Farms. I would highly recommend this cute little farm in Woodstock for any Vermont fall trip.
Wow Factor: Immerse yourself in enchanted forests and glorious autumn overlooks.
Need To Know: Make sure to have AllTrails+ handy on your phone before you take off into the woods.
With the crisp air, beautiful colors of the trees, and so much land to explore, hiking never has looked this good in Vermont. Fall is the perfect time of the year to get outside and enjoy everything from casual nature walks to challenging backpacking trips. Our friends over at AllTrails have the most helpful app for hikers that showcases facts about the trails and it is even helpful maps. Check it out before you head into the most magical forests this fall and the best hiking trails in Vermont.
As you can see, there are lots of fun things to do in Vermont in the fall! From small towns to farms in the countryside, you are bound to find autumnal bliss in the Green Mountain State. Have you ever been to Vermont in the fall? I can tell you firsthand that it is one of the best places to visit once the leaves start to change. If you fall in love and want to stay longer or are a resident who is looking for the perfect fall retreat check out this incredible treehouse Airbnb in Moretown.
You can also check out some suggestions I have for visiting Woodstock in the fall. This is one of those quintessential New England towns to visit in the fall.
Vermont has so much to offer throughout all four seasons, but this tiny state is particularly enticing to visit in the summertime. From breathtaking hikes and scenic parks to family festivals and unique activities, Vermont has summer fun for everyone! If your vacation plans include a trip to this tiny but magnificent New England state, be sure to put these top-rated activities on your summer bucket list.
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Best Summer Vacation Destinations In Vermont
From popular attractions to hidden gems, there is so much to explore in Vermont. Whether you come for the day, visit for the summer, or live in the state, these four must-do attractions should top your bucket list.
Need To Know: Advanced online reservations are highly recommended.
The Ben and Jerry’s ice cream factory tour is a must-do Vermont attraction! I have taken this tour several times and can tell you that it is definitely worth a visit. Learn how the delicious Ben and Jerry’s flavors are made and see the production in action. The tour also includes a free sample! When you are finished, visit the outside playground and
" target="_blank">flavor graveyard. Even if you don’t like ice cream, you will have a blast here!
Need To Know: Open May- October. Discounted admission is available for Vermont residents.
You could spend the whole day wandering through Vermont’s Shelburne Museum’s 45-acre campus and still have so much left to see. The museum is one of New England’s biggest history and art museums. With over 35 buildings, gorgeous gardens, and unique displays such as a side-wheel steamboat, a historic carousel, and a display of Vermont firearms, the Shelburne is an eclectic mix of unique Americana that you won’t find anywhere else.
3. ECHO, Leahy Center for Lake Champlain, Burlington
An afternoon at the ECHO Leahy Center for Lake Champlain in Burlington is already penciled in as a stop on my family’s summer Vermont road trip! This family-friendly museum is perfect for science enthusiasts of all ages. There are dozens of interactive and hands-on exhibits to explore and lots of cool marine animals to discover. The engineering tinkering bench and the 3D theater are popular spots within the museum. There is also a special early learning area for the smallest scientists in your group.
Need To Know: Special seasonal packages are available.
The hills are alive this summer at the
" target="_blank">Trapp Family Lodge
in Stowe! This award-winning, Austrian-inspired resort is a gorgeous Vermont retreat that offers so many fun summer activities including mountain biking, guided tours, hiking, yoga, pickleball, and tennis. You can even take part in a fun class such as leather making or birdhouse building. The food at the lodge is also amazing! Choose to dine at one of the fantastic on-site restaurants or saunter over to the Von Trapp Brewing Bierhall for a lager, cider, and a laid-back meal. I ate here a few years back and experienced one of the best beer cheese dips that I have ever tasted! Be advised, that once you vacation at the
" target="_blank">Trapp Family Lodge, you will want to come back year after year. You can rent the Trapp Family Lodge for a private event through RestauRent!
Best Lakes & Rivers To Visit In Vermont This Summer
The many gorgeous lakes and rivers of Vermont make this New England state a nature-lovers paradise. The raw beauty and gorgeous scenery of these bodies of water is unparalleled. There are so many magnificent spots to visit, including these favorites.
is the biggest lake in Vermont. Not only is this majestic body of water incredibly scenic, but it is also so much fun to visit! Boating, swimming, fishing, and birdwatching are just a few summer activities that can be enjoyed on the lake. There are also waterfront restaurants, scenic trails, and beachfront parks along its coast. A ferry ride across the lake to New York is also a fun adventure!
in the Northeast Kingdom makes a magical day trip. Lake Willoughby is one of the state’s deepest and clearest lakes. It is a wonderful place to swim, paddle, and boat. Glaciers carved the lake thousands of years ago and the result is some amazing scenery! There is a free public beach on the lake’s northern side and a clothing-optional area to the south. The scenic hikes around Willoughby Gap are simply breathtaking!
Need To Know: Visit the Mad River Visitor Center in Waitsfield for maps and brochures.
Vermont’s
" target="_blank">Mad River spans the towns of Warren, Waitsfield, and Moretown. There is so much to experience both on and off the water in the Mad River area. The river’s swimming holes are great places to cool off on a hot day. Boating, fishing, kayaking, and SUP yoga are also popular summer adventurers. The Waitsfield Covered Bridge is a scenic stop along the river that is definitely worth a visit. Whether you explore the river by foot or decide to just take a scenic drive along its shore, the Mad River Glen is a must-see when visiting Vermont.
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Parks To Visit In Vermont This Summer
Did you know that there are over 50 state parks scattered throughout the small state of Vermont? These lush spaces offer fantastic opportunities for hiking, camping, swimming, and other recreational activities. Grab your hiking boots and camera and head to these tremendous parks for a memorable visit.
Need To Know: The park season runs from May 10 - October 20, 2024. There are fees for day use and camping.
Quechee State Park offers some of the most spectacular views in all of Vermont! I have visited here on several trips and am always mesmerized by the natural beauty of this spot. The 165-foot Quechee Gorge
is a breathtaking sight to see. Take the short, mile-long hike and view the gorge from the U.S. Route 4 bridge or hike one of the trails on either side of its banks. Quechee State Park is also a great place to camp and fish.
is another gorgeous Vermont destination. Located within Mt. Mansfield State Forest, the park has several fantastic hiking trails of various degrees of difficulty. These trails offer many scenic lookouts where you can take in the majestic green mountain views. Underhill also features tent and lean-to camping sites. These areas are not vehicle-accessible.
Need To Know: Free entry. There are no visitor facilities within the park.
More fantastic hiking can be found at
" target="_blank">Camel’s Hump State Park
in the Waterbury area. This undeveloped marvel is the perfect place to get in touch with nature. The park offers various trails, many of which are challenging. However, it is well worth the workout to be rewarded with spectacular summit views. The state park also features some primitive camping sites. For the best hiking directions, I suggest downloading the AllTrails+ app before you go.
Best Free Summer Activities
You don't have to spend a lot of money to enjoy the beauty and splendor of Vermont. There are many free things to do in Vermont in summer without breaking the bank.
Location: C.C. Putnam State Forest, Stowe, Vermont.
Popularity: Popular.
Need To Know: Easy hike with a steep incline at the end.
If you are looking for a fun, inexpensive Vermont day trip, I suggest making your way to Moss Glen Falls
in Stowe. This stunning 85-foot waterfall is the tallest in Vermont and is a gorgeous site to see!! You can catch sight of the cascade near the trailhead or hike the Moss Glen Falls Trail for the total experience.
Location: Starts at Oakledge Park, Burlington, Vermont.
Popularity: Very popular in the summer months.
Need To Know: Open year-round. Also known as the Colchester Causeway and the Burlington Bike Path.
What better way to spend a summer afternoon than by biking the shores of Lake Champlain? The Island Line Trail is a 14-mile trail that begins in Oakledge Park in Burlington. Along the way, you will pass over bridges, woodlands, and scenic waterfront areas. Bike the whole trail or just a portion. Either way, you are in for a fun excursion!
Need To Know: Free admission, but donations are appreciated.
If your summer vacation plans involve vacationing with your four-legged friends, a visit to Dog Mountain
in St. Johnsbury should definitely be added to your itinerary. This unique spot is a beautiful place where dogs can run free through grassy fields and take a swim in refreshing ponds. The property also features founder, Stephen Huneck’s art gallery and an eclectic chapel where you can pay respects to beloved pets who have passed. This Vermont retreat is so unique and special that it is worth visiting even if you aren’t a pet owner. You can find out more about this unique Vermont gem at the
Need To Know: Use the ParkMobile check in and park for free (up to two hours) at the Downtown Garage.
You can’t make a visit to Burlington without stopping at the Church Street Marketplace. This lively pedestrian mall is an energetic scene during the summertime. With over 100 shops and restaurants to enjoy, you could easily drop a lot of cash here, but you don’t necessarily have to do so to have a great time. Spend the afternoon window shopping or stop to watch the amazing street performers in action. There are also many wonderful free concerts and family art events taking place at the marketplace throughout the summer. Further information about specific events, stores, and restaurants can be found at the
Need To Know: Taking place June 14-16, 2024. The admission price is for the entire weekend.
What better way to kick off summer than with an epic festival? The
" target="_blank">Quechee Hot Air Balloon, Craft and Music Festival
will be celebrating its 44th year during the weekend of June 14-16. Hot air balloons will transform the skies into a rainbow of vibrant hues at various launch times throughout the weekend. There will also be crafts, music, food, skydivers, and children’s events. You can even take a balloon ride of your own! Find out more at the
" target="_blank">Quechee Hot Air Balloon, Craft and Music Festival
Need To Know: The festival runs August 2-4, 2024. Admission is free.
A hilarious weekend of fun will be taking place in Burlington during the first week in August. The 17th annual Festival of Fools
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will feature over 100 wacky and wonderful performances including comedy acts, acrobats, magicians, and dancers. The family-friendly performances are free to watch. This unique event is something you really must experience! Event specifics are available at the Festival of Fools
Need To Know: The fair takes place August 13-17, 2024.
The Vermont State Fair will be celebrating its 178th this summer! This popular five-day agricultural fair will feature classic events such as ox pulling, cowboy-mounted shooting, animal exhibits, shows, rides, and loads of yummy fair food. There will also be special music performances by Tyler Hubbard and Abducted By The 80's. More information is available on the
" target="_blank">Vermont State Fair
website.
Are any of these seventeen spots on your Vermont vacation list? What other local attractions would you recommend? If you are planning to visit Vermont and are searching for a wonderful summer rental, be sure to check out these beautiful waterfront Airbnbs.
