Having been to Stowe before in the summer months, I was thrilled to be going back for a work trip during one of the best times to visit - autumn (the first day of the season, no less).
While we just missed the peak-foliage timing (my guess is due to the hot summer), we still got a glimpse of the crisp fall air and saw a few yellow leaves here and there.
Here’s a few of the places we stopped at that I think are worth the praise:
Eating/Drinking:
Cafe on Main - got an iced latte and the chicken salad sandwich on ciabatta!
Woodland Baking & Coffee - our group came back here multiple times in one weekend. The vegan burrito and pumpkin bread and espresso icing was to die for (get the pumpkin spiced latte too if it’s in-season).
Butler’s Pantry - this place came highly recommended, and rightfully so. It only felt right to order the Biscuit French Toast Sticks with maple syrup, but anything on the menu screams comfort food so you can’t go wrong. Outside seating is available as well, and it’s located right on the main road in town.
Ellison Tasting Room - Ellison Estate Vineyard makes natural wine from one of the oldest single plantings of grapevines in all of Vermont, and they have a tasting room in downtown Stowe that’s perfect for large groups or events. The wine is also delicious!
Two Sons Bakehouse - technically located in Hyde Park, but we were fortunate enough to have them cater our wine tasting at Ellison. The pizzas were insane (I loved my prosciutto pie) and they cater, so definitely worth checking them out if you’re crazing a solid wood-fired pizza.
Stowe Bee Bakery & Cafe - another great option if you want to pop in and grab a breakfast sandwich, pastry or coffee to go. I loved their maple biscuit - there's also a cute room towards the back where you can sit and eat.
Staying:
Outbound Stowe - the newest hotel in town that just opened in July. The property is so spacious and has some stunning cabins that you can rent out. Also has an on-property bar/restaurant with some killer drinks and bar food.
Doing:
Ranch Camp - I love a concept that doubles as two different things, and Ranch Camp is both a bike rental shop and restaurant. There are some great biking trails in Stowe so this is a great day-time activity, plus when you return your bike you can grab a bite or drink.
Stowe Recreation Path - speaking of biking, this 5.3-mile recreation trail is perfect for seeing all the beauty that Stowe has to offer. You can walk or bike, and the trail starts in Stowe Village and ends at a beautiful covered bridge.
Country Store - a quintessential Vermont store right on the main strip with homeware, gifts and more.
Stowe Mercantile - another great place to pick up a souvenir or a flannel, right on the main road.