The 10 Best Stops on a Boston to Stowe, VT Road Trip (Routes & Activities)
If you’re looking for a guide on how to take a road trip from Boston to Stowe, VT – you’ve come to the right place! 🚗
This guide will show you the best routes and all of the best stops along the way, giving you plenty of time to explore and enjoy this beautiful route to Stowe, or the “Ski Capital of the East.”
As someone who lived in Boston for years, I was always amazed at how many great places there were to road trip to nearby and also how beautiful the road trips were!
And Vermont always surprised me. It had some of the most beautiful winding roads and mountain views (and plenty of hidden gems along the way).
So here’s everything you need to know about taking a Boston to Stowe, VT road trip. Get ready to discover the heart and soul of New England, one mile at a time.
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How far is Stowe from Boston?
How far do you have to drive to get to Stowe from Boston? For the most direct and shortest route it’ll be about 3 hours of travel time and roughly 200 miles. And while that might be a bit much for a day trip (trust me, I’ve done it 😅) it makes for a great weekend trip.
Boston to Stowe, VT Best Routes to Take
Depending on what you’re looking for, there are (in good New England fashion) several routes you can take to get to Stowe. If you’re short on time, stick with Route 1 which will be the fastest and most direct.
The other route is great for even more scenic views or just the novelty of driving a well-known highway. You can even drive one way there and use the other route on the way back from Stowe to Boston.
🚗 Route 1: Boston to Stowe, VT – 93 N to 89 (~3.5 hours)
If you’re like me, and you’re generally just after the fastest route to get there – this is the winner. And you’re not sacrificing too much along the way since you’ll still have lots of scenic views and fun stops along the way.
The specific roads you’ll want to take here are 93N to 89. From 89 you stay on the same road till you get to the turn off for Stowe.
1. Quechee, VT
Time off the road: 6-8 minutes
This is a great small town that is pretty well known in Vermont. I actually stumbled on this place accidentally though when I was making my drive up from Boston to Woodstock. What can I say? I like covered bridges, and this town delivered.
Things to do in Quechee, VT on your Road Trip:
- Visit Simon Pierce – Flagship store & restaurant with an incredible patio view of the River. You can visit the glassblowing store to grab some goodies or you can even take a workshop!
- The Skinny Pancake Quechee – great local spot for savory crepes, paninis and more!
- Quechee Covered Bridge – see the above picture for the Mill Pond Falls view that you’ll take in from the beautiful (very Vermont-y) covered bridge, right next to Simon Pearce.
- Quechee Gorge & Bridge – Often referred to as the “Grand Canyon of Vermont,” this is a deep but narrow gorge carved by the river. Enjoy scenic views from the bridge or you can hike along the trails for a closer look.
2. Woodstock, VT
Time off the road: 17 minutes
Located close by to Quechee, you can easily drive there after exploring Quechee. I love Woodstock, it’s probably one of my favorites. Basically, it’s everything you think of when you imagine a small Vermont town and more.
With plenty of stunning countryside to explore as well as an enchanting downtown, there’s plenty to do and see. And, if you’re into covered bridges like I am, this is a great place for it. Just walk through the town and see the stunning architecture, and you’ll know what I mean.
Things to do in Woodstock, VT on your Road Trip:
- Sugarbush Farm – Adorable family farm with plenty of great cheeses & maple syrups as well as farm animals and self tours
- Woodstock Village – Postcard perfect New England downtown with its beautiful tree-lined streets, historic buildings, and a charming village green. Explore the quaint shops, art galleries, and boutique stores offering local crafts, antiques, and specialty items.
- Billings Farm and Museum: A working dairy farm and museum that offers an immersive experience of Vermont’s rural heritage. Explore the farm exhibits, interact with the farm animals, or even take a wagon ride!
- Taftsville Covered Bridge – The most beautiful bright red covered bridge!
- Middle Covered Bridge – Located in downtown Woodstock, this adorable bridge is one of the most photographed in the area (see above picture)
- Mon Vert Cafe – Great little cafe with breakfast sandwiches, coffee, lunch, and plenty of baked goods!
3. Sleepy Hollow Farm – Pomfret, VT
Time off the road: 21 minutes
Located near Woodstock and Quechee, this famous spot is a family farm that has had different owners over the years. It quickly became a popular photo spot for those traveling through Vermont in the fall.
I was one of those people who attempted to drive from Boston to find this farm, but honestly, it was such an unmarked spot that I wasn’t able to find it! I did find nearby Sugarbush, (which is a great place to stop) but it wasn’t this!
So for anyone searching for this spot – I’ve got you covered with the actual address rather than just telling you Sleepy Hollow Farm. Because I promise you (I tried) that it won’t show up in Google Maps to find once you’re there. So write down the address if this is on your list.
Also, please be respectful and admire from a distance as this is a private residence.
Address: 3207 Cloudland Rd Woodstock, VT
4. Montpelier, VT
Time off the road: 4 minutes
Montpelier has an undeniable charm, and is a great stop along your Boston to Stowe, VT road trip. This capital city is known for its idyllic small-town vibes and picturesque streets that feel straight out of a storybook.
Oh, and let’s not forget about its mouthwatering farm-to-table food and the iconic Vermont State House that stands tall as a symbol of the city’s heritage. Montpelier may be small, but its reputation for charm and character is rather large.
Things to do in Montpelier, VT on your Road Trip:
- Coburn Covered Bridge – Snap a picture at this beautiful covered bridge
- Vermont State House – An incredible Greek Revival style building and the seat of Vermont’s government. Take a guided tour to learn about the state’s history, admire the beautiful architecture, and explore the legislative chambers.
- Hubbard Park – This expansive park features hiking trails, picnic areas, and a stone observation tower offering panoramic views of the city and the surrounding Green Mountains.
- Montpelier Farmers Market – If you’re visiting on a Saturday, check out the Farmers Market. Located in the heart of downtown, the market offers a vibrant selection of local produce, crafts, baked goods, and more.
5. Waterbury, VT
Time off the road: 3 minutes
Waterbury has made a name for itself as a culinary hot spot, drawing food enthusiasts from far and wide. It’s known for iconic attractions like the Ben & Jerry’s Ice Cream Factory, where sweet-toothed visitors can experience the magic behind their legendary creations.
But there’s more to this town than just Ben & Jerry’s! The town also boasts a thriving craft beer scene, with local breweries crafting unique and flavorful brews for beer aficionados. Plus, there’s a strong commitment to farm-to-table cuisine.
Things to do in Waterbury, VT on your Road Trip:
- Ben & Jerry’s Ice Cream Factory – Take a guided tour of the factory and try lots of delicious samples along the way (and even see the flavor graveyard!)
- Alchemist Brewery – Local brewery with scenic views that serves up hoppy goodness. They do only have tastings here, so you can’t buy pints (just a warning).
- Prohibition Pig – Mouthwatering BBQ with lots of smoky meats and incredible cocktails.
- Cold Hollow Cider Mill – Family-owned business famous for its fresh apple cider and homemade apple cider donuts. Watch the cider-making process, sample the freshly pressed cider, and browse their selection of Vermont products.
- Waterbury Center State Park – Located just south of the town, this park offers a great spot for picnics, swimming, fishing, and canoeing on the Waterbury Reservoir. The hiking trails are great for scenic views.
🚗 Route 2: Boston to Stowe, VT – Route 100 (~4-7 hours)
So you can either take Route 100 from closer to the border of Massachusetts and Vermont, or you can take Route 1 above and when you’re around Bethel, VT take 9W to get to this beautiful scenic route.
Personally, unless I had a long time to savor and drive this route, I would suggest taking the 89 route to Route 100 if you want to see a little bit of the road but maybe not the entire thing.
6. Killington, VT
Time off the road: 3-4 minutes
Killington is an absolute gem that deserves a spot on your itinerary, and it’s probably one of the more well known cities in Vermont!
If you do end up taking Route 100 from the beginning, Killington is a quick stop that’s less than 5 minutes off the highway. If you’re just getting on Route 100 coming from 9W off of 89 it’s about a 20 minute backtrack. I do think it’s worth backtracking!
Killington is widely known for its epic ski slopes and world-class winter sports. However, it’s also a haven for outdoor enthusiasts, offering breathtaking hiking trails, mountain biking adventures, and stunning views of the Green Mountains. And don’t forget the vibrant après-ski scene, with cozy lodges, lively bars, and top-notch dining options.
Things to do in Killington, VT on your Road Trip:
- Killington Resort – World-class ski (and snowboard) resort with diverse terrain and extensive trails. Also offers snowshoeing, snowmobiling, and other winter activities. In the summer, you can enjoy mountain biking, hiking, golfing, and scenic chairlift rides.
- Killington Adventure Center – Located at Killington Resort, this center has anything from its mountain coaster, zip line, ropes course, and scenic gondola rides.
- Thundering Falls Trail – Hiking adventure to Thundering Falls, Vermont’s sixth tallest waterfall. The trail offers a moderate hike through wooded areas and leads to a breathtaking view of the waterfall.
- Mary Lou’s Killington – Incredible pizza spot that often has live music.
- The Lookout Tavern – Cool sports bar with good food and great views – burgers, beers, and more!
7. Weston, VT
Time off the road: ~1 minute
Prepare to be charmed by the town of Weston, nestled along your journey from Boston to Stowe, VT. This hidden gem is the perfect stop for those seeking a taste of authentic New England beauty.
Known for its Main Street, Weston will whisk you away to a simpler, more picturesque era. While time may be short, make sure to explore the historic buildings, boutique shops, and local treasures that give this town its distinct character.
Things to do in Weston, VT on your Road Trip:
- The Vermont Country Store – Explore this nostalgic general store, the oldest of its kind. Founded in 1949, this wonderland of Vermont-made goodies has something for everyone, from maple syrup and tablecloths to classic snacks, home ware, and cosmetics!
- Weston Village Store – Pop in for unique gifts from Vermont, homemade fudge, local cheese, or some of Vermont’s famous maple syrup.
- Weston Priory: Random but a cool experience nonetheless. Located just outside of Weston, the Weston Priory is a Benedictine monastery. Visitors are welcome to attend services and enjoy the lovely surroundings.
- The Hub at Weston – if you happen to be in the area after 5, you’ll want to stop here for a solid dinner. If you’re there on the weekend, they also have an incredible brunch!
- The Inn at Weston – A cute, casual spot to eat – this is part of the Inn, but it’s the cutest atmosphere and has great food.
8. Moss Glen Falls – Granville VT
Time off the road: ~1 minute
This road trip stop will only take a couple minutes or so off the road (plus the hike time) but it’s well worth it if you’re into beautiful waterfalls!
Moss Glen Falls is a magnificent 85-foot waterfall with moss-covered rocks that makes it quite the picturesque scene. Plus, it’s the tallest waterfall in Vermont!
Enjoy the view and snap some pictures with a leisurely hike through the woods. The boardwalk part of this hike is an amazing experience – it’s flat and has a great view. Honestly, if you’re tired of sitting in the car for hours (and need some fresh air) this is the perfect outdoor spot.
Other Places to Stop Nearby (Off the Path)
There are a couple of other places you might be interested in exploring if you have the time. They’re a tad off the path though, so I figured I’d add them here at the end as extras.
Totally not necessary but if you’ve got your eye on any of these, it might be worth the extra driving time or day of travel.
9. Burlington, VT
Time off the road: ~30 minutes
No road trip from Boston to Stowe, Vermont is complete without a pit stop in Burlington. This vibrant city, located on the shores of Lake Champlain, offers a blend of natural beauty and a bustling downtown scene.
Take a stroll along the lively Church Street Marketplace, filled with charming shops, outdoor cafés, and street performers. Explore the breathtaking views of Lake Champlain and the Adirondack Mountains from the Waterfront Park.
And if you have some extra time, don’t miss the opportunity to visit the renowned Shelburne Museum or indulge in a farm-to-table culinary experience.
Things to do in Burlington, VT on your Road Trip:
- Church Street Marketplace – Explore the iconic Church Street Marketplace, a pedestrian-only street in the heart of downtown Burlington. This bustling outdoor mall is lined with local shops, boutiques, restaurants, cafes, and street performers.
- Waterfront Park – Take a stroll along Burlington’s scenic Waterfront Park, located right on the shores of Lake Champlain. Enjoy breathtaking views of the lake, relax on the grassy lawn, or take a bike ride along the waterfront bike path. In the summer, the park hosts various events and festivals, including concerts and food festivals.
- Hen of the Wood- Hen of the Wood is a highly acclaimed farm-to-table restaurant. They specialize in showcasing the best of Vermont’s seasonal ingredients in their creative dishes. The menu changes frequently to reflect the freshest produce, meats, and seafood available.
10. Lake Winnipesaukee
Time off the road: ~1 hour 15 minutes (from 89)
Okay, fine, this isn’t really a road trip stop per-say, but it’s an awesome lake in New Hampshire, so I needed to add it to this list somehow.
This is the crown jewel of the Lakes Region in New Hampshire, and a potential extra stop on your road trip from Boston to Stowe.
This massive lake is a paradise for water lovers, offering endless opportunities for boating, fishing, swimming, and other water sports. With over 200 miles of shoreline and numerous islands to explore, it’s a popular place to visit.
The surrounding towns provide the cutest lakefront communities, lively summer events, and a vibrant atmosphere that will most likely make you want to stay just a little longer.
Things to do in Lake Winnipesaukee on your Road Trip:
- Water Activities – Lake Winnipesaukee is perfect for boating, fishing, swimming, and kayaking. You can rent boats, sailboats, canoes, or kayaks. Enjoy a day on the water, explore the lake’s islands and coves, or simply relax on the sandy beaches.
- Scenic Cruises – Take a scenic cruise on the lake to enjoy panoramic views and learn about the area’s history. Several companies offer cruises, including dinner cruises, sightseeing tours, and even themed cruises.
- Castle in the Clouds – Located in nearby Moultonborough, Castle in the Clouds is a historic mansion and estate that offers breathtaking views of Lake Winnipesaukee. Take a tour of the mansion, stroll through the beautiful gardens, and enjoy scenic hikes on the property’s trails.
- Weirs Beach – A popular destination on the southern shore of the lake. It has a boardwalk lined with shops, arcades, and restaurants. The beach offers swimming areas, water slides, and boat rentals.
Where to Stay in Stowe
Arriving in Stowe, you’ll find yourself in the most charming Vermont town that effortlessly blends outdoor adventure with lots of relaxation.
Here are a few hotel recommendations I think you’ll love:
- The Lodge at Spruce Peak – This luxurious resort combines rustic elegance with modern amenities. Enjoy spacious rooms, a world-class spa, and convenient access to the slopes for skiing and snowboarding enthusiasts.
- Topnotch Resort – Set amidst 120 acres of picturesque landscape, this upscale resort offers a blend of modern sophistication and Vermont charm. With a renowned spa, indoor and outdoor pools, tennis courts, and a variety of dining options, it caters to both relaxation and adventure seekers.
Driving from Boston to Stowe, VT: FAQs
Still have some lingering questions about your road trip from Boston to Stowe, VT? Here are some answers you might be interested in.
Route 100 is definitely known as the most scenic route in Vermont, so if you have a chance to take this route, do it! However, 89 in the fall is still pretty scenic!
It depends on how much you want to see along the way. If you want to explore more of these different towns, I’d suggest a weekend or long weekend. Otherwise, you can definitely do this trip in a full day (and the return trip).
Once you’re in Vermont the view starts to become pretty scenic! It’s one of the best ways to see the fall foliage, in my opinion. From Boston there are a bit more road changes, but once you’re on 89 or Route 100 there aren’t many. Traffic gets crazy on weekends and during the fall or winter seasons!
I would recommend either of the above routes. Depends on what you want to see along the way but both of these routes will work.
Final Thoughts: Boston to Stowe, VT Road Trip
Taking a road trip from Boston to Stowe, VT is an amazing experience. Not only does it offer breathtaking views of the fall foliage, but you also get to explore some of New England’s most picturesque towns and villages along the way.
Whether you take Route 89 or Route 100, this road trip will give you plenty of scenic stops as well as unique attractions that just can’t be found anywhere else in the country.
So grab your friends or family and hit the open road – it’s time for a scenic adventure through beautiful New England.
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