Start your day with a hearty breakfast at The Skinny Pancake, located in Montpelier. Indulge in their signature crepes filled with a variety of sweet or savory ingredients. Average cost for a meal is about $12 per person.
For a delicious lunch, head over to Kismet, a farm-to-table restaurant in Montpelier known for their fresh and seasonal dishes. Try their tasty salads or sandwiches. Average cost for a meal is about $15 per person.
Enjoy a cozy dinner at The New England Culinary Institute's Main Street Grill & Bar, located in Montpelier. This restaurant offers a diverse menu featuring classic New England dishes with a modern twist. Average cost for a meal is about $25 per person.
Saturday, October 7: Arrival in Vermont
Welcome to Vermont! Start your nature-filled adventure by flying into Burlington International Airport. From there, make your way to Burlington, a vibrant city situated on the shores of Lake Champlain. In the morning, explore the beautiful Waterfront Park, where you can enjoy a leisurely stroll along the lakeside, take in breathtaking views, and even rent a bike or paddleboard. In the afternoon, head to the nearby Shelburne Farms, a historic working farm with stunning landscapes, walking trails, and the opportunity to meet farm animals. As the evening approaches, take a walk down Church Street Marketplace, a pedestrian-only street filled with shops, restaurants, and local entertainment.
On this day, venture eastward towards the picturesque town of Stowe, nestled in the Green Mountains. Start your morning with a hike through Smugglers' Notch State Park, a scenic area known for its rugged beauty and stunning foliage in October. Take the time to explore the numerous hiking trails and marvel at the unique rock formations. In the afternoon, visit the Trapp Family Lodge, a charming mountain resort that offers activities such as horseback riding, mountain biking, and guided nature walks. End the day by taking a scenic drive along the renowned Stowe Mountain Road, enjoying the breathtaking fall colors.
Smugglers' Notch State Park: Free, 3-4 hours
Trapp Family Lodge: Activities vary in cost, 2-3 hours
Stowe Mountain Road: Free, 1-2 hours
Restaurants
The Roost Café - Enjoy a cozy breakfast at The Roost Café, located in the heart of Stowe. Indulge in their delicious homemade pastries and hearty breakfast sandwiches. Average cost for a meal is about $12 per person.
The Bench - For lunch, head over to The Bench, a popular restaurant known for its mouthwatering burgers and craft beer selection. The vibrant atmosphere and friendly service make it a great spot to refuel during your exploration. Average cost for a meal is about $15 per person.
Solstice - Treat yourself to a memorable dining experience at Solstice, an upscale restaurant offering contemporary American cuisine with a focus on locally sourced ingredients. Whether you choose their signature dishes or opt for the chef's tasting menu, you're in for a culinary delight. Average cost for a meal is about $50 per person.
Monday, October 9: Exploring the Green Mountain National Forest
Embark on a day of adventure as you immerse yourself in the beauty of the Green Mountain National Forest. Begin your morning by hiking the Long Trail, the oldest long-distance hiking trail in the United States. Enjoy the serene wilderness and stunning vistas along the trail. Afterward, head to the charming town of Middlebury for a relaxing afternoon. Explore the Middlebury College campus and its surrounding nature, or visit the nearby Robert Frost Interpretive Trail, a short walk that celebrates the famous poet's work. In the evening, indulge in farm-to-table dining at one of Middlebury's renowned restaurants.
Long Trail: Free, 4-6 hours
Middlebury College and surrounding nature: Free, 2-3 hours
Robert Frost Interpretive Trail: Free, 1-2 hours
Farm-to-table dining: Cost varies
Restaurants
Start your day with a delicious breakfast at The Storm Cafe, located in Middlebury. Indulge in their famous fluffy pancakes and specialty omelettes. Average cost for a meal is about $12 per person.
For a delightful lunch, head to Fire and Ice Restaurant, known for its diverse menu and vibrant atmosphere. Enjoy their fresh salads, sandwiches, and homemade soups. Average cost for a meal is about $15 per person.
Treat yourself to an unforgettable dinner experience at American Flatbread, a local favorite. Savor their wood-fired pizzas made with organic, locally sourced ingredients. Average cost for a meal is about $20 per person.
Tuesday, October 10: Ben & Jerry's and Montpelier
Get ready for a day of sweet treats and exploration. Start your morning by visiting the Ben & Jerry's Factory in Waterbury. Take a guided tour to learn about the ice cream production process, sample unique flavors, and enjoy the whimsical atmosphere. After indulging in ice cream, make your way to Montpelier, the charming capital city of Vermont. Explore the Vermont State House, a stunning architectural gem, and take a stroll through Hubbard Park, which offers beautiful views of the city. In the evening, enjoy a delicious meal at one of Montpelier's cozy restaurants.
Ben & Jerry's Factory Tour: $4 admission fee, 1-2 hours
Vermont State House: Free, 1-2 hours
Hubbard Park: Free, 1-2 hours
Dinner at a local restaurant: Cost varies
Wednesday, October 11: Lake Champlain Islands
For your final day of exploration, venture to the beautiful Lake Champlain Islands. Start your morning by visiting the Sand Bar State Park, a sandy beach with stunning views of the lake and surrounding mountains. Enjoy swimming, picnicking, or simply relaxing by the water's edge. In the afternoon, take a scenic drive along the Isle La Motte, the northernmost island in Lake Champlain, and explore its natural wonders. Visit the Fisk Quarry Preserve, a geological site known for its ancient fossils, or the St. Anne's Shrine, a peaceful and historic religious site. End your trip with a picturesque sunset cruise on Lake Champlain.
Sand Bar State Park: $4 admission fee, 2-3 hours
Isle La Motte attractions: Free or minimal fees, 2-3 hours
Sunset cruise on Lake Champlain: Cost varies
Restaurants
Start your morning with a delicious breakfast at Shore Acres Inn & Restaurant, located on South Hero Island. Enjoy their famous homemade pancakes and fresh maple syrup. Average cost for a meal is about $12 per person.
For lunch, head to Blue Paddle Bistro in South Hero. This charming lakeside restaurant offers a variety of sandwiches, salads, and daily specials made with locally sourced ingredients. Average cost for a meal is about $15 per person.
Indulge in a memorable dinner at The North Hero House Inn & Restaurant, situated on North Hero Island. Savor their gourmet seafood dishes and the panoramic views of Lake Champlain. Average cost for a meal is about $30 per person.
Hidden Gems and Local Favorites
If you're looking to explore off the beaten path, Vermont has plenty of hidden gems and local favorites for nature enthusiasts. Consider visiting the Moss Glen Falls in Granville, a serene waterfall tucked away in a lush forest. For a unique experience, hike to the top of Mount Philo in Charlotte for panoramic views of Lake Champlain and the Adirondack Mountains. The Devil's Chair in West Rutland is another fascinating natural formation worth exploring. Don't forget to ask the locals for their favorite hiking trails, as Vermont is known for its extensive network of scenic trails.