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Vermont may be America’s sixth-smallest state, but great things often come in small packages. With sprawling mountain ranges, pristine rivers, and friendly locals, these Vermont towns are the best of the best. Whether you want to escape the noise of the city in Dorset or relax at the lakeside in Shelburne, Vermont is the apex of New England charm. Explore farmer’s markets, hike to the top of Mount Mansfield, or bike the scenic Newport Bike Path. Discover why these hidden gems of the Green Mountain State are touted as America’s favorite towns for a visit in 2024.

Stowe

At the base of Mount Mansfield is the sleepy little hamlet of Stowe. Nestled at the base of Mount Manfield, Stowe is often referred to as the "Ski Capital of the East." In the winter, stay at the iconic Stowe Mountain Resort and hit up some of their º£½ÇÉçÇø-famous slopes. In the summer, hike the challenging trails of Mount Mansfield for some of the most amazing views in the state. Or, explore the nearby Green Mountains and hike the trails that lead to Moss Glen Falls.

When not on the trails, downtown Stowe is worth checking out. The manicured sidewalks lead to quirky shops such as the Country Store on Main or rustic coffee shops like Café on Main. As one of the best places in the country to see the leaves change, Stow comes alive in the autumn months. Plan your visit during one of their lively fall events, like the Annual Stowe Foliage Art and Crafts Festival or the Leaf Blower Fall Classic at Strawberry Hill Farm.

Shelburne

Established in 1763, Shelburne is a delightful lakeside town with friendly locals and attractions that are well worth the drive. If you love farmer’s markets, you’ll fall in love with Shelburne. Nestled on Lake Champlain in the Adirondack Mountains, the farmer’s markets are almost as bountiful as the sweeping lake and mountain views. One of the most iconic farms in the area is Shelburne Farms. There, visitors can learn to make cheese, take a wagon tour of the farm, or just hike the 1,400 acres of pastures, forests, and gardens. Other notable sites in Shelburne include the Shelburne Country Store and Shelburne Orchard.

Walk the historic street of Shelburne for a day of exploration. The Shelburne Museum is a great stop during the warmer months, offering a wide array of historical buildings to step back into the early days of Shelburne. And if you have a soft spot for teddy bears, you have to check out the Vermont Teddy Bear Company. They’re the largest maker of American-made teddy bears in the country. From charming farmer’s markets to an exciting downtown district, it's evident why Shelburne is one of America’s favorite destinations.

Jericho

Just outside of the bustling city of Burlington is the hidden gem of Jericho. Settled in the base of the Green Mountains, Jericho is no stranger to amazing views and outdoor adventures. The most notable landmark in Jericho is the Old Red Mill and Craft Shop, which is a great spot for the whole family. Explore the museum, hike the forested trails, or swim in one of the rock pools surrounding the mill. While you’re in there, you can miss the Jericho Farmers Market, which provides live music, crafts, and fresh New England produce.

Outside of Jericho are some amazing parks, like Mobbs Farm. Hike the miles of scenic forested trails, or go cross-country skiing in the winter. Under 5 miles from downtown is the Kikas Valley Farm, which is a great place to unwind year-round. Whether you love farmer’s markets or getting lost in nature, the friendly locals of Jericho will welcome you with open arms.

Newport

Nestled on the shores of Lake Memphremagog is the humble New England town of Newport. With a historic downtown district, stunning unspoiled beauty, and a tight-knit community, Newport is a perfect retreat for the whole family. Spend the day exploring the historical sites like the Old Stone Museum, or visit in the fall to embark on a ghost tour. Newport is home to some fantastic community events, including the Aquafest and the Winter Carnival.

Situated in the untouched lands of the Northeast Kingdom, Newport is ripe for outdoor adventures. Pack your bike and hit the trails at Newport Waterfront Recreation Path, which provides amazing views of Lake Memphremagog. The nearby Beebe Spur Rail Trail is ideal for professional cyclists offering a paved runs into Canada. And if you love winter sports the Jay Peak Resort is one of the top ski destinations in the entire state.

Brattleboro

On the border of New Hampshire and Vermont is Brattleboro, nestled on the banks of the Connecticut River. It has all the friendly small-town vibes you expect from Vermont, with a host of things to see and discover. Its location along the Connecticut River made it a booming trade town in its early days. Today, it’s a charming district brimming with well-preserved 19th-century buildings, quaint shops, and cafes, like The Works Café or the Latchis Theatre. The area is famous for its amazing food, thanks to its emphasis on farm-to-table cuisine. If you are in the area at the right time, you can catch the fabulous Brattleboro Farmers’ Market, held from May through October.

Nature lovers will love the experiences that Brattleboro has to offer. Launch a boat for a day on the Connecticut River, or head to one of the many parks in the area. Hogback Mountain is popular among the locals and is just a quick 25-minute drive away in the Molly Stark State Park. Furthermore, Fort Dummer State Park is A great place to lace up those hiking boots and spend time in nature.

Dorset

Whether it’s summer or winter, Dorset is a great place to get lost in nature. Far removed from the noise of the bigger cities, Dorset is New England charm at its finest. Travel the historic tree-lined streets for a day of shopping in locally-owned shops like the Dorset Exchange. One of the iconic buildings in town is the Dorset Playhouse, built in 1929. This rustic playhouse offers community theater productions and festivals. While in town, be sure to hit up the vibrant Dorset Farmers' Market, which is open year-round.

Sandwiched between the Taconic and Green Mountains, Dorset has expansive forests with even better views. The most popular spot (which is also a historic site) is the Dorset Quarry, established in 1785. While it’s no longer a working quarry, it provides a 60-foot-deep swimming hole that is the perfect place to cool off in the summer. Or, take a scenic hike on the Dorset Peak Trail located in Green Mountain National Forest.

Discover the Best of the Green Mountain State

Now you can understand why these six Vermont towns have captured the hearts of Americans. From the friendly locals, farm-to-table cuisine, and old-º£½ÇÉçÇø New England city streets, it’s no wonder these villages are universally adored. Whether you're planning a road trip or just dreaming of a quiet escape, these towns prove that Vermont is the perfect place to unplug and get in touch with nature. And worry not; the friendly locals in these cities are sure to embrace you with open arms. So, pack your bags and get ready to explore the best of the Green Mountain State.