With only 4,300 residents, Stowe is a small town with A LOT to offer! No matter what time of the year, Stowe is bursting at the seams with concerts, activities and lots of fresh air activities to get the blood flowing. Enjoy Stowe for a day or make a weekend out of it; stay in one of the 36 hotels and take your pick from 52 restaurants. There is something for everyone in this tiny town that will leave you wanting more! Here are some of the best reasons why everyone should visit this tiny town in Vermont.
1. Skiing
Mount Mansfield is Vermont’s highest peak and has some of the most challenging terrain on its 485 acres and 39 miles of ski trails. There are 116 trails on the ski map, but there are at least 25 "named" trails you won’t find unless you’re a local…
2. Hiking
Among the many hiking trails, the Stowe Pinnacle is one of the best. A challenging hike with an amazing view as a reward when you reach the top.
3. Dining
Fondue at the Stowehof Inn. You’ll be taken back in time at this classic inn. Delicious fondue, great wine list and don’t miss the popular burger and beer special for $7.99.
Piecasso for pizza
You can’t say enough good things about Piecasso. Cool art and décor set the mood while you enjoy some of the best pizza you’ll ever have. Not only are they Stowe’s only restaurant that delivers, Travel & Leisure voted Piecasso "One Of The Country’s Top 11 Places To Grab A Slice!"
McCarthy’s for Breakfast
Oh boy, get ready for the best breakfast of your life! Great food, hearty servings and friendly service always.
Doc Pond's
Hippies and Hipsters alike can agree that this farm to table joint is delicious.
Cliff House
You’ve got to take the gondola to get to this restaurant – and it’s worth it!
4. Emily’s bridge
Legend has it that the Gold Brook Bridge, also known as "Emily’s Bridge" is haunted by a ghost named Emily. There are many stories of how Emily died on the bridge. The most popular is that she was supposed to elope with a lover who was meeting her at the bridge, and when he didn't show, she hung herself from the rafters. Even the locals are a bit weary of this place since sightings, noises and lights have all been reported over the years.
5. The Vermont Ski and Snowboard Museum
The Vermont Ski and Snowboard Museum was established in Brandon in 1988 as The Vermont Ski Museum, but was moved to Stowe in 2000 and opened to the public in its current location in 2002. In 2011, the word snowboarding was added to the museum's name and all sorts of interesting memorabilia are displayed.
6. Shopping
Forget the franchises and check out all the local specialty stores. See what these small shops have to offer!
7. Waterfalls
One of the most popular places to check out one of Stowe’s beautiful waterfalls is Bingham Falls. An easy hike and a definite crowd pleaser.
8. The Notch
This drive through the mountain is not for the faint of heart. Trucks often get stuck on its hairpin turns that you don’t see coming until it’s too late.
9. Seasonal activities galore…
Ice Carving Contests…
Hot Air Balloon Festivals…
Farmers markets…
Sleigh rides...
and an exceptional Easter Sunrise Service at the top of Mount Mansfield just to name a few.
10. Stowe Recreation Path
This 5.3 mile paved bike path is the recipient of many awards. Look for hidden swimming holes in the summer or put on your cross-country skis for winter fun.
11. Spas
Looking to relax? Book a treatment at one of our world class spas at the Stowe Mountain Lodge, Topnotch Resort or Stoweflake Resorts.
12. Lodging
From classic alpine to New England charm and everything in between. Book a room and extend your stay – there is so much more to explore.
13. Mountain biking
Throughout the summer, there are many Clean Up the Trails days where families and hard-core biking enthusiasts alike come out and keep the trails impeccably maintained. It’s epic!
14. Most famous view of Stowe. Want to know how to get there?
go by this...
The most often photographed scene of Stowe is this one, hands down. So here’s how to get there: At the three way intersection downtown, head up the Mountain Road, pass the covered foot bridge, go around the bend and take a left into the Salon Salon parking lot. Take your own picture perfect postcard shot, too!
15. Theater
Whether you go to the Spruce Peak Performing Arts Center or the community productions at town hall, live shows in Stowe do not disappoint. Big names such as James Taylor have played here for sold out New Year’s Eve shows along with other notable shows throughout the year. Can’t make the live shows? You may see celebs on the mountain who love it here such as John Travolta, Ethan Hawke and Harvey Keitel.
16. Brew pubs
Vermont is known for its craft brews and Stowe is home to Trapp Lager and Crop. The Alchemist is currently building a state of the art facility.
17. Gondola ride
Bulk it in with skiing or take it to the top for fantastic views when it’s summer or fall. It’s an experience, among many others, that’s not to be missed. It's hard to argue with Stowe being the best small town in Vermont. What do you think? What do you think are the most charming small towns in Vermont?
What is your favorite place to go in Stowe? We love to hear from you and these local businesses love the exposure. Please "Like" and "Share" with your friends!
Looking for more Vermont adventures? Check out this spooky road trip in Vermont.
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