8 Stowe Attractions that Balance Adventure and Relaxation| The 100 Collection™

Fall foliage, apple cider mills, and mountain views--what's not to love about New England? If this region is calling your name, Stowe in central Vermont makes a fantastic home base for any vacation. It's a small, picturesque town that brings a sense of serenity to all who visit. But a Stowe vacation isn't just about relaxation. There are plenty of opportunities for adventure as well! Check out some top Stowe attractions to add to your itinerary.

Trek the Mount Mansfield Loop Trail

A breathtaking view from the summit of Mount Mansfield, Vermont’s highest peak, shows two hikers resting atop rugged rocks with sweeping views of the lush Green Mountains below. Dark, dramatic clouds cast shadows over the valleys, creating a striking scene of adventure and serenity.

Photo Credit: @_willlivingston

352 Mountain Rd, Underhill, VT 05489

You're probably coming to Vermont for the mountain views, so why not trek to the highest peak in the area? Visitors can drive to the summit of Mount Mansfield, but if you're looking for an extra-special experience, consider taking the gondola from Stowe Mountain Resort. Hiking pros will be excited to hear about the Mount Mansfield Loop Trail, which takes you nearly eight miles through the mountains.

The trail begins at Underhill State Park, but be warned, this hike isn't for the faint of heart! Less experienced hikers might opt for the shorter Sunset Ridge/Laura Cowles Trail route.

Wander Through Stowe's Downtown

Stowe’s charming Main Street is lined with quaint shops, leafy trees, and American flags waving proudly in the breeze. Visitors stroll along the brick sidewalks, taking in the small-town charm and welcoming atmosphere of this classic New England village.

Photo Credit: @gostowe

Main St (Vermont Rte 100), Stowe, VT 05672

If a challenging hike isn't in your wheelhouse, but you still want to get active, spend some time downtown. This quaint area is the perfect jumping off point for several Stowe, VT activities and experiences.

Definitely check out the general store and souvenir shops down the main drag, and then branch off on Mountain Road for more restaurants and ski shops. From here, you can also visit a local art gallery like The Current or stop by the Vermont Ski and Snowboard Museum.

Grab a Drink at the Alchemist Brewery

Locals and travelers gather on a sunny afternoon at The Alchemist Brewery, enjoying craft beer and games on the grassy lawn. The modern brewery’s glass architecture gleams under a vibrant blue sky as laughter and conversation fill the air.

Photo Credit: @Alchemist Brewery

100 Cottage Club Rd, Stowe, VT 05672

Exploring Stowe is sure to leave you parched! When it's time for a drink, make the short drive to the Alchemist brewery. This local staple has a selection of beers, as well as commemorative glasses and mugs. The best way to enjoy this attraction is to book a brewery tour, where you can get a first-hand look at how the magic is made.

Tours only take about 40 minutes, and you'll leave with a complimentary can of beer! Before heading out, grab a snack and a second drink at the beer café, where good vibes are always flowing.

Explore Moss Glen Falls

Tucked within a lush forest, Moss Glen Falls cascades gracefully down moss-covered rocks, creating a peaceful and refreshing escape in Stowe, Vermont. The sound of rushing water echoes through the trees, making it a perfect stop for hikers and nature lovers.

Photo Credit: @gostowe

369-615 Moss Glen Falls Rd, Stowe, VT 05672

Ready for a really magical experience here in Stowe? Take the short, relatively easy hike to Moss Glen Falls. You'll only have to walk about a quarter mile to get to this gorgeous waterfall, but you always do the full hike, too (just over four miles).

If you decide to go on this adventure, be aware that while signage isn't the best, the pathway is usually clear. Nevertheless, once you reach the tallest waterfall in Vermont, the views and photo ops will be well worth the walk!

Take a Drive to Ben & Jerry's

Photo Credit: @Ben & Jerry's

1281 Waterbury-Stowe Rd Route 100, Waterbury, VT 05676

Here's a truly unique attraction in Stowe--the only Ben & Jerry's factory open to the public! Book a tour through the factory, which still manufactures more than 350,000 pints of ice cream every day. The guided portion is only 30 minutes and ends in the Flavor Room, where you can sample some of Ben & Jerry's most popular ice creams.

Make sure to stop by the Flavor Graveyard to pay your respects to discontinued ice creams, then spend some time browsing the gift shop.

Sample a Beverage at Cold Hollow Cider Mill

An apple cider drink is held up against the rustic backdrop of Cold Hollow Cider Mill. The sunshine and mountain views make this sweet Vermont treat taste even better after a day of exploring Stowe.

Photo Credit: @Cold Hollow Cider Mill

3600 Waterbury-Stowe Rd, Waterbury Center, VT 05677

Apple cider is ingrained in Vermont's heritage, so when you visit Stowe, be sure to check out Cold Hollow Cider Mill. This place has a working cider press, hard cidery, and live observation beehive. You can watch their famous cider donuts being made--a perfect activity for kids--or pass some time in the retail store.

If you're already a fan of crisp apple cider, make sure to try the cider jelly or a sweet treat from the bakery.

Walk the Stowe Recreation Path

Colorful blooms and lush greenery welcome visitors at the entrance to Stowe Recreation Path. The sign for Thompson Park stands beside bright pink azaleas, marking the start of a scenic trail loved by walkers, bikers, and families year-round.

Photo Credit: @jmf2332

89 Main St, Stowe, VT (parking lot located behind Stowe Community Church)

You can't get the full Stowe experience without walking this famous greenway. The Stowe Recreation Path is just over five miles of paved trail that takes you past amazing mountain views.

While you take in the picturesque landscapes, you'll still be close to the restaurants and boutiques that make this town so special. The trail makes an excellent evening walk, but you can also rent a bike to enjoy the scenery.

Hit the Slopes at Vermont's Highest Peak

Steam rises from a heated outdoor pool as skiers unwind beneath the snow-covered trails of Mount Mansfield. The green mountain resort stands tall beside the pool, offering the perfect mix of adventure and relaxation in Stowe’s winter wonderland.

7231 Mountain Rd, Stowe, VT 05672

It's back to Mount Mansfield for this final attraction. Skiing is one of the top Stowe, VT activities for a reason. At Stowe Mountain Resort, you can score lift tickets, as well as season passes to the slopes. If you're new to skiing, you might also sign up for ski or snowboard lessons with expert instructors. You'll be a pro on the mountain in no time!

There are so many Stowe attractions to keep you on your toes all vacation long. But if you're more of a cozy-up-by-the-fireplace kind of person, check out the rentals from Stowe Resort Homes. These luxury accommodations are perfect for everyone, whether you have a full itinerary or just want to relax in the Vermont mountains.