From coffee shops to jaw-dropping vistas and mountain hikes, Vermont offers enticements for families, couples, and budget travelers alike. Whether you are into apple picking or a good Halloween scare, the Green Mountain State offers plenty of reasons to plan a trip. And, of course, there is plenty of down-home good eats along the way. So, gear up and get ready for the perfect fall road trip in Vermont.
Start your perfect fall road trip in Vermont out right with a latte or espresso brewed using Schapira’s Coffee and Tea Co. roasted coffee beans. Come hang out by the comfy wood and brick hangout. Add a tasty breakfast treat from Krin's Bakery, Mirabelle's, or VT Cookie Love, and, before you know it, you are fueled and ready to hit the road.
As you make your way across the state, you going to want to break for a little sustenance. And it doesn’t get any better than hand-tossed thin-crust pizza offering signature veggie and meat-topped pies with build-your-own options. This place has a fun, funky feel that makes you feel at ease as you walk through the door. We highly recommend “The Pablo Pesto” or “The Don.”
Now, after you have stuffed yourself, you are going to want to work off some of those calories, and the Waterbury Trail to the summit of Mount Hunger is the perfect solution. A 2.2-mile out-and-back hike, the trail seems like it constantly ascends, though there is a majestic waterfall on the way up that is worth a stop and a look. At the summit you enjoy views of Whiteface, Camel’s Hump, Killington, and more.
After you make your way down the mountain, you might be a little peckish. We suggest you make your way to Wellwood Orchards, as they have been in business for more than 50 years. Your scenic vistas will continue as this mountaintop orchard offers wagon rides, you-pick apples, and more. Also, don’t miss blueberries, raspberries, peaches, plums, pumpkins and more!
As you narrowly escape near death, you are surely going to need a drink. And there is none better at getting you just that in Southern Vermont than Whetstone. This riverside eatery features craft drafts, creative pub grub, and year-round deck seating. The duck wings, the beer-braised brisket sandwich or the southern fried chicken and waffles should be just the thing to take the edge off.
Next, you’ll be looking for a place to crash. Luckily, the Latchis Hotel stands tall on a beautiful corner of downtown Brattleboro, near the edge of the Connecticut River. This historic building first opened in 1938, when the “Greco Deco” design was finally realized. The rooms and adjoining theatre stand as living monuments to America’s golden age and feature Greek art throughout the terrazzo-floored interior.
You are sure to be hungry when you wake, but hold your horses and head over the mountain to Dot’s in Wilmington. It’s not that far, and you’ll thank us later. It doesn’t get much more classic American than this longtime country diner. Dating back to the 1950s, Dot’s has been slinging up the morning good stuff for more than half a century. With eggs any way you like them, pancakes, French toast, waffles, and a selection of breakfast meats, there is not a bad choice in the house.
After a hearty New England breakfast, you are sure to want to get out and get active. Make your way a short way down Vermont Route 9, and you will happen upon a patch of grass on the right. Climb the fire tower atop Mount Olga and you will be afforded unmatched panoramic views of glorious mountains and valleys to end your trip.
