11 Best Family Vacations in Vermont

1. Burlington

This city offers visitors both age-friendly attractions and an intimate atmosphere as well. From pristine beaches to the scenic Waterfront Park, there’s a lot of family fun to be had here. There are also some educational attractions such as the popular ECHO Lake Aquarium & Science Center.

While veteran visitors recommend staying at the Hampton Inn Burlington – Colchester, this city is home to some of the state’s best family resorts. Don’t bother renting a car just to explore the city either. You will actually get more out of your visit doing it on foot. It’s one of the most walkable little cities in New England.

Colchester is another place to consider for family vacations in Vermont. It’s especially good if you’re into outdoor activities and getting back to nature. Colchester gives you easy access to lovely Lake Champlain where you can go fishing, motorboating, and swimming.  There are also the Green Mountains which are great for hiking, skiing, and snowmobiling. When you get tired, relax and visit St. Michael’s College Playhouse and Flynn Theater. Stay at the Essex Resort.

You can’t take vacations in Vermont without taking a trip to Stowe. Stowe is the unofficial ski capital of the East and staying in Stowe is like vacating in the Alps, without needing a passport. Visit in the winter if you enjoy skiing and other winter sports.

Travel to Stowe in the summer and you and the kids can go fishing, golfing, hiking, and even ziplining. Don’t forget to check out the awesome foliage in the fall either. If you’re looking for an inexpensive getaway, go camping in this area here. Don’t like tent camping? Stay at The Lodge at Spruce Peak.

The well-known, historic Woodstock Inn & Resort is located in the village of Woodstock. It offers travelers a luxurious, kid-friendly getaway. They have spacious accommodations and offer deluxe services as well.  

Here you can enjoy bike tours, golfing, horseback riding, skiing, and water sports. The resort even offers guests a full-service spa where they can enjoy a rejuvenating treatment. In fact, if you’re vacationing with infants or toddlers, this resort even offers a babysitting service.

No, we’re not talking about Manchester, England! Manchester has it all! From awesome outdoor recreation to great shopping finds, Manchester can be a fun family vacation spot.  

Manchester has historical allure, stellar scenery, and a vibrant cultural scene too. Shopaholics will enjoy its thriving shopping scene as Manchester includes a number of popular factory outlets. Learn something about the area by taking a guided tour. The tours are seasonal and introduce newcomers to such Vermont points of interest as an alpaca farm, the Sugar Shack, and a Norman Rockwell display. Book your stay at Kimpton Taconic Hotel.

There’s more to the popular winter destination of Jay than simply skiing and winter sports adventures. Yes, this town in Orleans County is quite a popular place to be in the winter. Still, it’s more than an icy winter wonderland.  

Visit Jay in the summer when the weather’s warmer. You and your family will be captivated by nature and will be able to go biking, hiking, and paddle boating too. Travel experts suggest staying at the Jay Peak Resort. It’s comfortable and includes some fun amenities such as a super seasonal waterpark.

If you and yours like staying at a resort, next time you’re in the Stowe area try the Topnotch Resort & Spa. It’s reportedly one of New England’s “most exciting family resorts.” It blends year-round outdoor action with luxury.

Hike the picturesque trails, do a little horseback riding, go swimming, visit the spa for a treatment, or go cross-country skiing. There’s something for everyone here. If you have a large family, rent Topnotch’s luxurious three-bedroom house. It includes a pair of twin beds, a single queen-size bed, and a king-size bed, comfortably accommodating as many as six adults and one child.

Oddly enough, Montpelier is often underrated when it comes to family vacation destinations. Yet the capital of Vermont is a super spot for families into striking scenery and art. This city is well-known for its many local artists and has numerous great galleries such as the fantastic Front Art Gallery.  Visit Montpelier’s historic downtown. Check out the shops and boutiques offering such items as books, toys, and chocolates. Looking to save some money?  

Book your stay at the High Hill Inn. It offers inexpensive rates and cozy accommodations. It has an almost elegant feel and offers guests easy access to such attractions as the mighty Winooski River.  

Shelburne is nestled on the shore of Lake Champlain in Chittenden County. Here you will find several one-of-a-kind, beguiling kid-approved attractions. While Shelburne isn’t short on culture or history, it’s more famous for its family-friendly attractions.  

Perhaps the most popular one is the Vermont Teddy Bear Factory which has been in business making teddy bears since 1981. There’s also Shelburne Farms, the Shelburne Museum, the beach, boat launch, and nature park. Adults may enjoy the Fiddlehead Brewery, the Shelburne Vineyard, and the Kwiniaska Championship Golf Course which comes complete with great views of the massive Adirondack Mountain range. Book your stay at the Smart Suites or the G.G.T. Tibet Inn.

Not to be confused with the iconic 1969 music festival in Bethel, New York, this Woodstock is a laid-back spot for a classic New England family vacation. It features multiple comfy bed-and-breakfasts and gorgeous scenery. If you’re part of an active family, you can all enjoy such active pursuits as hiking, golfing, fishing, and visiting local farms and historic sites too. Head for the Marsh-Billings-Rockefeller National Historical Park and take a tour of the mansion, grounds, and surrounding forest. Book your accommodations at the popular Hotel Coolidge or the well-known Woodstocker B&B or Woodstock Inn & Resort. 

Last but certainly not least on our list of best family vacations in Vermont, is the Holiday Inn Mount Ascutney. This official Holiday Inn Club offers both a touch of luxury and action-packed activities too. Schedule your vacation any time you wish as this place offers guests luxurious facilities and recreational opportunities all year long.

This resort features an arcade, a game room, and swimming pools as well. If your family enjoys playing sports, be sure to spend some time on the tennis, racquetball, and basketball courts. This is a great place for family reunions and various other large groups.  

Book the resort’s popular three-bedroom accommodations. This option offers a lot of space and a regular flotilla of beds. Indeed, it can quite easily handle a total of 10 adults and four children.