Girls Guide to Stowe, Vermont
I had visited Stowe, Vermont, in the fall, but experiencing it in the winter was pure magic. The snow-covered mountains and cozy village made Stowe feel like the perfect winter wonderland. The mountains of Stowe draw visitors from around the world for world-class skiing, but it was the town's charming atmosphere that captivated me. I was fortunate enough to arrive just as the snow began to fall, and I woke up to the fluffy, marshmallow-like snow blanketing the town. It felt like a scene straight out of a storybook. With its iconic mountain views, cozy inns, and a variety of outdoor activities, Stowe is the ultimate winter getaway.
Must-Do Activities
Cold Hollow Cider Mill- This Cafe & Tasting room is a must-visit destination for cider lovers. Visitors can sample a variety of apple products, watch the behind the scenes of cider being pressed and enjoy homemade baked goods. I tried a donut and the cider and both were so good, I definitely understand why they call it Vermont’s finest cider.
Ben & Jerrys Factory- The Waterbury site minutes from Stowe is the only Ben & Jerry’s factory open to the public. They offer guided tours, you can watch them make ice cream. there’s a giant gift shop, and of course you can get the freshest more phenomenal ice cream here. They offered some limited edition flavors which I just had to try but ended up getting my personal favorite Coffee Buzz Buzz.
Cabot Creamery - Cabot Creamery is a must-visit for cheese lovers like myself. They are known for rich, flavorful cheeses made from high-quality milk. You can sample a wide variety of cheeses and pick up local favorites to enjoy a true taste of Vermont’s dairy tradition.
Trapp Family Lodge - Trapp Family Lodge is a gorgeous European style resort located in Stowe. Come here to enjoy a variety of outdoor activities, including sleigh rides through the winter wonderland, cross-country skiing, and seeing the lodges cows!
Shopping on Main St. – There’s just something about strolling through a charming little town that makes me feel like I’m living in my favorite fiction novel. Admiring each adorable shop is one of my favorite ways to discover a place and Stowe’s Main St. was one of the most enchanting areas I’ve visited in awhile.
Where to Stay
Outbound Stowe is a boutique hotel located in the heart of Stowe, Vermont. Whether you’re skiing the slopes or exploring the charming downtown, this is the ideal hotel for your trip. Outbound Stowe offers a mix of cozy rooms, lofts and cabins with modern amenities. The hotel offers complimentary evening s’mores by the fire, maple tastings, and has an amazing on site restaurant. After a day full of outdoor adventures, the outdoor pool and hot tub is the perfect spot to unwind with a warm cup of cocoa. Whether you're here for relaxation or exploration, Outbound Stowe is an ideal retreat for your winter getaway.
Restaurants/Bars
Apres Only- This one's for the girls who crave a snow trip and après-ski vibes, but aren't hitting the slopes. Apres Only has amazing bar bites including SpaghettiOs and tabletop S’Mores with a personal fire! The vibe here is immaculate with vintage ski suits and old VCRs all around you’ll feel like you’re at an 80s cabin in the woods.
Idletyme Brewing - Vermont’s rustic charm shines through at this cozy spot, serving up delicious, homey food in a laid-back atmosphere. Idletyme offers a menu packed with comforting, flavorful dishes made from fresh, local ingredients. The macaroni and cheese with Vermont cheddar was hands down the best I’ve ever had.
Doc Ponds - I was recommended to head to this spot for brunch and it was amazing. Everywhere we went had local and fresh food and the salad here was incredible.
Alfies Wild Ride - This is like visiting your neighbors garage band. This bar has live music performances by local bands making it the best spot to go to if you’re looking for a wild night out in Stowe.
Eastside Bar & Bites - We ate here quite a few times because it was located on site of the Outbound Hotel. Everything we had was amazing and fresh! Don’t skip out on the Candy Cane Forest mocktail, photographed below, a delicious hot cocoa with a peppermint spoon! Pro Tip: Add espresso and thank me later.
If you’re coming from Boston and have the time I’d recommend to stop on your way to Stowe in Woodstock. Visit the gorgeous Woodstock Inn for lunch and the Yankee Bookshop, Vermont's longest-running independent bookstore, established in 1935. It’s located on Central St. which is an adorable street full of quaint local shops and a sight to see.
I hope you get the chance to see this beautiful place no matter what season it is and if this blog post is the reason you’re headed there know I’m honored and I hope you have the best trip!
xx
Jules