Stowe, Vermont is the perfect winter destination for a family vacation. This little picturesque village has endless year round activities and restaurant options. There is truly something for everyone! Here is a list of the best things to do in Stowe, VT during the winter.
The Best Things to do in Stowe, Vermont in Winter
1. Stowe Mountain Resort
Stowe Mountain Resort is made up of two mountains- Spruce Peak and Mount Mansfield. Mount Mansfield is the highest mountain in Vermont and the skiing here is unbelievable! It has easily become one of my favorite mountains to ski.
It is a perfect combination of long scenic trails and challenging black diamonds. With over 40 miles of ski terrain at the Stowe Mountain Resort, you will find something for all abilities.
2. Spruce Peak Village
Spruce Peak Village is the heart of the Stowe Mountain Resort. This quaint village will make you feel as if you have been transported to the alps.
It is a beautiful place to wander in and out of shops and restaurants. There is an ice skating rink with string lights over head. Rentals are available. Kids will also love the toy store with the candy section.
Adults will love the Whistle Pig Pavillion where you can have cheese melted over a fire straight onto your food! You can also rent a heated pergola around the skating rink which are able to seat up to 8 guests and receive personalized VIP service. Click here for more information or to make a reservation.
The mountain is connected with a gondola that will whisk you straight to the summit. There is a restaurant called the Cliff House which is perched on the mountain top.
Spruce Peak Performing Arts Center has concerts and events happening year-round.
The biggest challenge of visiting Spruce Peak Village is finding a place to park. If you come across from the ski area, be aware that ski boots are not allowed inside of most establishments.
3. Trapp Family Lodge Outdoor Center
The Von Trapps settled here in Vermont because it reminded them of Austria. Situated on 2,500 acres, the Trapp Family Lodge Outdoor Center has an extensive trail network for cross-country skiing and snow shoeing.
For a challenge, set your sights on the Slayton Pasture Cabin, a 3 mile journey through the woods. You will be rewarded with a roaring fire and hot soup.
4. Stroll the Downtown
The center of Stowe village is so picturesque with the spire of the white church rising above. My favorite shops to peruse are Shaw’s General Store and the Stowe Mercantile. Don’t miss Laughing Moon Chocolate’s delicious creations and take a walk over the Giles W. Dewey Memorial Bridge, which is covered pedestrian bridge.
5. Vermont Ski & Snowboard Museum
While you are in the little downtown, ski buffs will enjoy the Vermont Ski & Snowboard Museum which is filled with memorabilia. The museum’s mission is “to collect, preserve, and celebrate Vermont’s skiing and snowboarding history.”
6. Gentle Giants Sleigh and Carriage Rides
Tour some of Vermont’s scenic landscape from a horse-drawn sleigh or carriage. Gentle Giants Sleigh and Carriage Rides offers private rides every day (weather permitting) from 11-4, every 30 minutes. The cost is $40 per adult, $20 for children 4-14, and kids under 4 ride free.
7. Have a Spa Day
If you need a day of pampering, the most well known spas in town are at the Topnotch Resort, The Stoweflake Mountain Resort & Spa and the Spruce Peak Spa & Wellness Center.
8. Visit a local Brewery
There is no shortage of breweries in Vermont and Stowe has some of the best. The Alchemist is the producer of Heady Topper, a beer that once had people waiting in line for hours to purchase. The von Trapp Family opened von Trapp Brewing because nothing is more Austrian than a bierhall! Idletyme Brewing Company is a fabulous restaurant and offers quality beer brewed on site. Fans of fresh-pressed hard cider will appreciate Stowe Cider.
9. Snowmobile Vermont
Take a two hour back country tour with Snowmobile Vermont! This 25-mile journey through the Mount Mansfield State Forest is for both the beginner and the advanced rider. You must arrive an hour early for the safety lesson.
10. Stowe Cinema
Although there are a lot of things to do in Stowe, VT during the winter, sometimes you just want to kick back with popcorn and watch a flick. At Stowe Cinema 3Plex, they show first run movies with a concessions and a full cocktail bar.
11. Stowe Bowl
If you need to warm up, head inside to Stowe Bowl. This 8-lane boutique bowling lounge has great food and a full bar.
Can you believe how many things there are to do in Stowe, VT during the winter? I thought Stowe was a tiny village and it really surprised me to see how much they had to offer. I like that the options are endless for all ages. It really makes Stowe a perfect option for families.
We had a nice stay at The Field Guide Lodge. To read our full review, click here.
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