9 Overlooked Towns In Vermont Worth Visiting
Several things come to mind when one thinks about Vermont: natural beauty, maple syrup, and history top the list. Often overlooked, towns are among the best places to visit for an authentic experience that captures the best aspects of a particular region. These towns are no different, each offering unique finds and friendly communities.
These nine overlooked communities in Vermont are worth visiting, no matter the time of year. New England winters are famous, but so is the fall, when the leaves change color, and spring, when the earth shakes off the snow and allows flowers to bloom, each providing exciting times to visit Vermont. Uncover nine often overlooked towns that should top every Vermont traveler's list.
Stowe
Stowe, in the foothills of Mount Mansfield, is a good choice for an outdoor excursion, especially in the fall or winter months. Smuggler's Notch State Park is at the base of the mountain and leads to incredible, dense forest and mountain passes. After a day of hitting the trails, the shopping district is a nice way to unwind at local shops like The Boutique on Main Street. Or, spend a day relaxing in the district and enjoy the small-town appeal.
Stowe's culinary scene specializes in home-made comfort foods as inviting as its natural surroundings. The community has several tasting tours, such as Stowe Tasting Tours, which couple local breweries and restaurants together for a sensational experience. Many art galleries along Main Street offer a glimpse into the community's cultural side, such as The Current, which stands out for its own distinctive take on local and regional art.
Newport
Newport cannot be overlooked for its tranquil atmosphere, small crowds, scenic views, and small-town feel. The lakefront downtown, settled in the late 18th century, is filled with elegant brick buildings that give a vintage aesthetic to the walkable area. For those looking for a quiet weekend trip with beautiful scenery, look no further than Newport. Start the day with a visit to Green Mountain Natural Cafe on Main Street, which also serves local produce, before heading to the City Docks.
The City Docks offers unparalleled views of Lake Memphremagog and is a fantastic way to soak in the local atmosphere. For those with retail therapy on their mind, stop at the Pick and Shovel on Main Street. The gigantic hardware store has something for everyone, and it has become a local landmark. The beauty of Newport lies in its simplicity, friendly locals, and fun things to discover, and it is worthy of at least one visit.
Woodstock
The cultural hub of Woodstock is a quaint, rustic small village with traditional storefronts. Downtown is fun to explore, with unique finds like The Yankee Bookshop. The landmark store has been serving the public since 1935 and is again featuring vinyl records, something it has not done since the 1960s. The town is filled with friendly communities, and there are many opportunities to rub elbows with the locals, enhancing any visit.
Woodstock Farmer's Market is an ideal meeting place for locals, selling local produce and offering a kitchen that makes everything from scratch for authentic Vermont treats. Signature community events are another reason to visit, such as the annual Wassail Weekend in December. 2025 will mark the 41st edition of this lively event celebrating the sounds, sights, and spirit of the winter season.
Brattleboro
Scenic Brattleboro is a classic Vermont town with natural beauty and a traditional shopping district. It is a culturally diverse destination, with art galleries such as Latchis Gallery and performance halls like the Hooker-Dunham Theater and Gallery. Walking along the compact streets in the entertainment hub underscores the importance residents place on their artistic side.
For a small town, Brattleboro has an exciting collection of restaurants and coffee shops. Patio Coffee is one of the best ways to start the day in Brattleboro, in an industrial setting beyond the alley of the Hooker Dunham Building. Peter Haven's Restaurant is the most formal, with an intimate 10-table setting and European-influenced cuisine. This town should not be overlooked, especially for those looking for a weekend filled with art and sophistication.
Manchester
Manchester is characterized by two districts: Manchester Village and Manchester Center, each offering plenty of reasons to visit this often-overlooked town. Set against the backdrop of the Green Mountains, this tranquil mountain village has a pleasant community atmosphere and adorable lodging options to complete any stay, from five-star hotels to New England inns. Kimpton Taconic Hotel and The Inn at Manchester are two such options, each providing ambiance and pure Vermont charm.
The first option is a boutique hotel surrounded by mountain views and plush accommodations, including a cobblestone fireplace. The inn is a traditional farm setting that allows guests to escape into the Vermont landscape, with white porches and red barns spanning four sprawling acres. Strolling through town is an ideal way to get a sense of the community, especially at breakfast spots like Charlie's Coffee House.
Waterbury
Waterbury is notable for its culinary and outdoor scenes, and it should not be bypassed by anyone looking for a small town that is big on personality. Just outside of town, visitors can find Vermont cheese at Cabot Creamery Store and Ben and Jerry's ice cream at Ben & Jerry's Flavor Graveyard, two staples of the region. Cold Hollow is another iconic spot for everything apple cider.
The cider mill includes a cafe, cider, donuts, and other culinary treats featuring this Vermont staple, where visitors can take home a small, delicious part of the region. Downtown also has several down-home diners popular with visitors and locals. Maxi's and Park Row Cafe offer dynamic breakfast options in a family-friendly atmosphere that helps get the day started before exploring this small village.
Waitsfield
Waitsfield has a population under 2,000, and resonates as an authentic Vermont town with standout features, including covered bridges. The Historic Waitsfield Bridge not only serves as a prime photo opportunity, but it is also one of the oldest in the state, providing a tangible piece of the region's heritage. The historic village is in the heart of the Mad Valley, and its cozy downtown embodies its spirit like perhaps no other.
The Bridge Street neighborhood is the focal point of the area and features shops, restaurants, and local galleries like 4ortyBridge Boutique on Main Street. Peruse the vintage space before heading to the Artisan's Gallery, featuring local works from over 150 regional artists.
Burlington
Historic Burlington was established through a New Hampshire land grant in 1749, and today it is a charming town with classic brick storefronts that enhance its natural appeal. Among the many attractions in this small village is the Church Street Marketplace, a shopping hub that showcases the best conveniences of Burlington. Right down the road is the historic Flynn Theater, another landmark in town and a fantastic way to immerse yourself in the local history.
Dining out is an adventure downtown, and the restaurants even boast James Beard Award-winning chefs, including Avery Buck from May Day.
Shelburne
The walkable historic district of Shelburne provides a pleasant respite from the hustle and bustle of life and is a fantastic way to experience the Green Mountain State. Other cultural landmarks unique to this region include the Shelburne Country Store and the Shelburne Vineyard. The store is an original in the center of the village, while the vineyard explores Vermont's tastes, including a cozy tasting room, offering tasting flights, perfectly pairing hand-selected wines with gourmet cheeses for an epicurean adventure.
Shelburne Orchards is another delightful experience, allowing visitors to pick their own apples, which makes for a great gift to take home. The orchard also has a distillery that produces Dead Bird apple brandy for a different culinary experience. This village has aged quite well since 1763 and has a wide array of fun attractions and culinary experiences that make it a remarkable destination no matter the season.
These overlooked towns in Vermont are worth visiting for many reasons. Small town atmospheres, quaint settings, and impressive venues are just some of the reasons they deserve a second look. Whether looking for a historical adventure, charming inns, or outdoor events, these towns have it all.
Collectively, these nine towns provide a slower pace of life, a bonus for those looking to retreat from the hustle and bustle of modern life. Many Vermont hamlets offer a vibrant art and cultural scene, enhanced by the state's natural beauty, which adds to their character. When planning a trip to Vermont, no matter the season, start with the overlooked towns for a genuine experience that often makes the difference between a subpar trip and a memorable one.
