The state of Vermont is an ideal vacation destination year-round for a weekend trip. From the wintry mountain views and skiing opportunities in Stowe to the water adventures during the summer in St. Albans, there’s something for everyone in this New England state. Stay at one of many incredible Vermont vacation rentals to be situated in the heart of picturesque views and exciting attractions. Consider these eight cities when planning your next getaway for the weekend.
1. Stowe
Known as the “winter playground” of Vermont, Stowe provides you with vacation rentals that offer stunning mountain views and snowy skies. Opt for a weekend getaway that puts you in the midst of a winter wonderland when traveling between November and April, when the area gets an average of 20 feet of snow annually. Bundle up and ski or snowboard the slopes at the Bolton Valley Ski Area or the Stowe Mountain Resort with views of Mount Mansfield. During the warmer months, opt for a hike through Smugglers’ Notch State Park or zipline through the forested trails with ArborTrek Canopy Adventures.
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2. Woodstock
Find small town charm in the quaint Vermont city of Woodstock. This city is ideal for a New England getaway when you are seeking outdoor adventures that include biking, fishing, and hiking. Stop in for a horseback ride at the Green Mountain Horse Association during the warmer months, or try your hand at sledding, snowshoeing, or downhill skiing the slopes at the Woodstock Inn and Resort. This historic city is home to the Marsh-Billings-Rockefeller National Historic Park, complete with a forest and a mansion you can tour. Treat the kids to hands-on farming demonstrations when spending the afternoon at the Billings Farm and Museum.
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3. Bennington
Immerse yourself in the culture of Bennington to get a taste of Americana. Take a drive through this quaint city to see the covered bridges, or learn about the history of the city, the famous builders of the historic landmarks, and engineers contributing to the city’s design when stopping in at the Vermont Covered Bridge Museum. Let the kids admire the toys at the Dollhouse and Toy Museum, complete with puppets, dolls, and vintage toys. Families enjoy some time together walking the Molly Stark Trail, while the adventurous types can see an aerial view of the city when signing up for a skydiving excursion with Green Mountain Skydiving.
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4. Burlington
Burlington is ideal for the outdoorsy type wanting to see the fall foliage on the trails of the Waterfront Bike Path. This forested corridor is the ideal place for cycling the 127 paths in the spring, summer, or fall with rentals from Local Motion or North Star Sports. Lake Champlain is also a popular draw for opportunities to relax on the beach or take a boat tour with the Spirit of Ethan Allen. When you need to get in some retail therapy, scour the flea markets and vendors at the Church Street Marketplace before opting for an upscale dining experience at the Community Boathouse Marina.
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5. Manchester
Book a vacation rental in Manchester to be surrounded by the beauty of the Green Mountains. This small town takes you away from the big city and offers a historic feel when you tour the Hildene, the former Lincoln family home. Stop in at the American Museum of Fly Fishing or the Manchester Historical Society to learn more about this quaint Vermont city. Manchester also hosts seasonal tours to entertain the family. Sign up for the Backroad Discovery Tour to see a Norman Rockwell exhibit, visit an alpaca farm, and satisfy your sweet tooth at a maple shack. A weekend getaway in the winter gives you an opportunity to sleigh ride at Taylor Farm or ski down the slopes at the Bromley Ski Resort.
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6. Montpelier
Make the state’s capital your vacation destination and explore the history of the city. The historic downtown area offers you a chance to soak up the charm of Vermont while shopping specialty stores such as Bear Pond Books and Global Gifts. Seek out educational opportunities for the entire family when touring the gold-domed capitol or the Vermont Historical Society Museum. Outdoor enthusiasts enjoy the scenic views and trails at Hubbard Park, while the foodies flock to Sarducci’s for Italian fare or The Skinny Pancake for a hearty breakfast.
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7. Colchester
With 27 miles of shoreline and landscaped views, Colchester is the ideal place for a weekend getaway. Explore Lake Champlain when boating, swimming, or fishing. You can also take a guided sailing tour with Sail Arioso. Colchester is home to the International Sailing School, so you can take a lesson or watch the races when vacationing in the summer. Outdoor enthusiasts take advantage of the seasonal activities in this Vermont City that is home to the Green Mountains. Hike through the 350 acres of park trails, or take a walk along the four-mile Colchester Causeway Path before retreating to your cozy vacation rental.
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8. St. Albans
Also located along Lake Champlain, St. Albans offers summer fun for the family’s water adventures. After taking a dip in the lake or boating on the Missisquoi River, ride bikes along the 29-mile Missisquoi Valley Rail Trail with rentals from Kevin Smith Sports. Host a family barbecue at Kill Kare State Park, or ride the ferry to Wood’s Island State Park and Burton Island State Park for nature-themed explorations. When it’s time to wind down, stop in for some bar food and local brews at the 14th Star Brewing Company.
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