Vermont Winter Travel Guide: Hidden Gems Beyond Stowe & Killington

When visiting the Green Mountain State in the winter, you might immediately think of Stowe, Woodstock, or even Killington, and you’re not wrong. Those are fantastic spots to visit! But this time, we want to highlight a few other Vermont winter destinations that deserve some love.

 Maybe you’re not a skier.
Maybe you want to avoid the crowds.
Maybe you just want a cozy, small-town Vermont charm.

We’ve got you covered

Brandon, Vermont: Small-Town Winter Charm

Snow-covered sidewalk leading to the entrance of Brandon Inn, a multi-story brick building with lit windows, decorative string lights, and a sign displaying the inn's name and establishment year. Brandon Vermont
A brick building with a black arched window decorated with holiday garland, potted plants, with a snow-covered sidewalk and outdoor staircase leading up to the entrance, and holiday lights and signs on the building. Brandon, VT Sweet Sappys
Nighttime scene of a small town street with snow on the ground. A brick building with a sign that reads 'Brandon Artists Guild Gallery' is on the left. In the background, there is a white church with a steeple and a clock. Streetlights illuminate the sidewalk and parking lot, and a car is parked near the curb.

Not far from Killington sits the adorable town of Brandon,  a perfect winter getaway if you’re looking for charm without the chaos.

Where We Stayed

We stayed at the historic Brandon Inn, located right in the center of town. The rooms are a little dated, but they’re clean, cozy, and have everything you need for a comfortable stay. Down in the lobby, there’s a bar,  and on weekend evenings, you’ll often find live music. Cozy winter vibes? Yes, please.

Where We Ate

We grabbed dinner at The River Pub & Grill, a small restaurant with great local energy, super-friendly staff, and delicious food. Exactly what you want after a chilly Vermont day.

Shopping (Because Obviously)

I love a good bookstore and must stop at every single one. The Bookstore did not disappoint.

And shopping with dessert? Say less. Sweet Sappy's has everything from great local Vermont merch to maple creemees. Yes, I will eat ice cream in the winter. No, I do not regret it

Skiing in Vermont (For Those Who Love It)

A person snowboarding on a snowy slope surrounded by snow-covered trees with a mountain and a lake in the background. Bolton Valley
A man with a beard wearing a green beanie, ski goggles, a blue jacket, and gray gloves, holding ski poles and standing next to skis on snow, with a snowy outdoor area and trees in the background.
A snowy ski slope with two skiers standing near trees on the right side, a small building in the middle distance, and a forested landscape in the background under a blue sky with scattered clouds.

Okay, I did say maybe you’re not a skier. If that’s you, feel free to skip ahead.

But if you are, or you want to learn, Vermont in winter is hard to beat.

Bolton Valley

Check out Bolton Valley Resort. What we love about Bolton Valley (as two very different skiers) is that there’s something for everyone. One of us prefers beginner terrain, the other wants more of a challenge, and it works perfectly.

It’s also a great place to learn if you’re just getting started.

Cross-Country Skiing

Since we’re already talking skiing… cross-country skiing in Vermont is top tier.

We’ve visited:

If you’re heading to Vermont in the winter, embrace the cold. Dress for the weather, get outside, and lean into the season. Vermont truly shines when it’s snowy

Wooden plaque attached to a tree with engraved text, located outdoors in a forested area. The background shows snow and other trees with green foliage.
Snow-capped mountain in the distance under a partly cloudy sky, with leafless trees in the foreground and snow-covered fields below.
Close-up of a woman with glasses and a nose ring wearing a black knit hat with a patch that says 'Love Your' in a snowy forest with trees and a snow-covered trail in the background.
A plate of French fries with a side of creamy dipping sauce, a glass of beer, a menu, a large decorative lamp, and condiment bottles on a wooden table in a restaurant setting.
Snow-covered mountain landscape with trees and a snow-covered ground under a blue sky with scattered clouds.
Night view of the exterior of Burlington Beer Co. with a brick building, illuminated sign, and entrance, some snow on the ground.

Burlington, Vermont: Winter Energy by the Lake

I know, I know, Burlington isn’t exactly a hidden gem. But if you’re skiing at Bolton Valley or heading to Catamount, Burlington isn’t far and they know how to embrace winter.

Stroll Church Street Marketplace, pop into local shops, and warm up at one of the many fantastic restaurants or breweries.

We love stopping at:

For current events and local happenings, check out Hello Burlington. They’ve given us some great suggestions!