Vermont in winter is a state that gets me every time. Snow-dusted towns, frozen lakes, and a landscape so quintessentially New England it feels almost cinematic. Not only that – but the food and beer are genuinely world-class.
Burlington is the heart of it – a small city on the shores of Lake Champlain with a dining and brewing culture that punches well above its size. The mountain towns inland – Waterbury, Stowe, and the Mad River Valley – add another dimension entirely.
Of course, no Vermont adventure is complete without raising a glass to the state’s legendary craft beer scene. From the cult-followed Heady Topper to the inventive seasonal pours flowing out of dozens of independent taprooms, the state has earned its reputation as a true mecca for beer lovers. And I’ve had some outstanding ones.
This guide covers where to eat, where to stay, and the experiences that made Vermont one of my favorite winter escapes.
Stay
Blind Tiger Burlington Blind Tiger Burlington is a boutique hotel in a restored historic mansion near Lake Champlain, offering modern design within walking distance of downtown Burlington, Vermont ...Experiences
Burton Snowboards Global Headquarters – Company Store Based in Burlington, Vermont, Burton’s headquarters features a company store that revitalized my snowboard gear and connection to my board ...
Snowboarding at Sugarbush Resort Sugarbush Resort is a premier Vermont destination in the Mad River Valley, featuring ski and snowboarding trails across the distinct peaks of Lincoln Peak and Mt. Ellen ...Eat
Breakfast at the Blind Tiger Burlington Breakfast at the Blind Tiger Burlington offered a cozy and beautiful meal, set in a restored historic mansion near Lake Champlain, in Burlington, Vermont ...
Foam Brewers Foam Brewers brewery brings an artistic approach to brewing in a lively atmosphere just steps from the shores of Lake Champlain ...
Freak Folk Bier Brewery Freak Folk Bier is a Vermont brewery known for unique releases in a gothic, art-driven child-free taproom experience ...
Gallus Handcrafted Pasta Located in the historic Waterbury Grist Mill, Gallus Handcrafted Pasta serves exceptional Italian cuisine featuring local Vermont provisions paired with classic cocktails and wine ...
Hen of the Woods – Burlington Hen of the Woods presents thoughtfully composed seasonal Vermont cuisine with a focus on wood-fired dishes ...
Lawson’s Finest Liquids Lawsons Finest Liquids is a Vermont-based craft brewery renowned for its innovative IPAs, lagers, and barrel-aged beers ...
Salt & Rind Salt & Rind is a chic Waterbury destination featuring curated seafood and small plates that highlight Vermont’s premium culinary scene ...
The Alchemist Brewery The Alchemist Brewery is a Stowe craft brewery renowned for Heady Topper and its influence on the New England style hazy IPA movement ...
The Tap House at Catamount Glass My visit to the now closed Tap House at Catamount Glass was a welcomed stop for lunch during my first visit to Vermont ...
Waffle Cabin – Sugarbush Resort The Waffle Cabin at Sugarbush Resort is a seasonal outdoor eatery offering warm waffles and hot drinks during the winter season ...
