More Than Just Leaves: 15 Activities To Upgrade Your Vermont Fall Vacation

When it comes to fall foliage, Vermont brags some of the best leaf-peeping opportunities in New England. However, sublime foliage isn't the only spectacle your Vermont fall vacation has to offer. Whether you’re looking to work up a sweat while you enjoy your fall colors, or prefer to soak up the vibrant autumn views while you sip a good German ale, our top 15 list of Vermont fall activities has something for everyone.

                                                More Vermont Lodging Options

1. Feel The Fear at the Gaines Farm

The family-run Gaines Farm in Guilford is the place to be when the days get shorter and the nights get cooler. Enjoy their many fall events, including the Corn Maize, Cow Train, Corn Cannon, and more! When dusk falls, beware… the innocuous rides and activities of the day transform into a terrifying haunted adventure. The Gaines Farm Vengeance in the Valley haunted hayride and corn maze may just be the freakiest festival of the season!

2. Attend the Tunbridge World’s Fair

Stop by the World’s Fair at the fairgrounds in Tunbridge for a taste of true Vermont culture and heritage. Whether you are there for the livestock events, the evening beer and wine garden, or one of the craft, canning, and baking competitions, the fair has something for everybody and is as authentically Vermont now as it was back when it began.

3. Go Apple Picking at Green Mountain Orchards

Looking for something relaxing and quintessentially fall? Look no further than Green Mountain Orchards in Putney. Green Mountain offers apple picking, blueberry picking, horse-drawn wagon rides on weekends, the beautiful farm shop, and famous baked goods and apple products (including their renowned apple cider donuts)! The rolling hills and pastures of their family farm paint a picture of Vermont worthy of Rockwell —and more than worthy of your Vermont fall vacation.

4. Float On The Water at Clyde River Recreation

Get a new angle on Vermont's unparalleled fall foliage from the water. Head up to the Northeast Kingdom and make a reservation for a kayak trip with Clyde River Recreation. Whether you are planning a family Vermont fall vacation, or a quiet date weekend with your sweetie, Clyde River offers calm, flat water that is enjoyable for folks of every age and skill level.

5. Sip Suds at Killington Brewfest

Avid golfer? Brew connoisseur? Lover of brunch and live tunes? They’ve got all that and more over at the annual Killington Brewfest! With over 100 beers on tap, this Killington event is not to be missed!

6. Take a Hike at Camel’s Hump State Park

Named for its double-peak, Camel’s Hump is a favorite for locals and tourists alike. With trails ranging in difficulty from fairly easy to rugged, Camel’s Hump offers stunning views of the surrounding hills and valleys in a pristine, wooded setting. Take a day hike, or even pitch a tent in the mountain’s foothills for an unplugged weekend.

7. Stay Cozy On Your Vermont Fall Vacation at The Vermont Sheep and Wool Festival

Calling all spinners, knitters, crocheters, and fiber arts enthusiasts! Tour the booths of over seventy vendors, attend demos and fiber arts classes, and eat good food at the Sheep and Wool Festival! On-site camping is open to the public on Saturday night, so don’t be sheepish — pitch your tent and keep the Vermont fall vacation festivities rolling.

8. Don Your Lederhosen at Mount Snow Oktoberfest

Eager to try your hand at the Schnitzel Toss? Wild about Oom-pah? Itching to see if last year’s lederhosen still fit? Look no further than the annual Mount Snow Oktoberfest! Enjoy the 25+ beers on tap all weekend, authentic german fare, and lift rides to the summit! Worried about keeping your kids entertained while you have a pint? No problem! The Kid’s Zone will be open and packed with fun games and activities all weekend long.

9. Tour The North with the Northeast Kingdom Annual Fall Foliage Festival

Ready for a whirlwind tour of Vermont’s prized Northeast Kingdom? Carve out a week (or two) for an authentic Vermont fall vacation centered around the NEK’s annual Fall Foliage Festival! Seven towns, seven days — spend each day at a new location, touring local crafts, eating local fall delicacies, and drinking in the quaint beauty of autumn in Vermont.

10. Rock on at the Rocktoberfest: A Beer, Bacon, and Bands Festival!

They’re bringin’ home the bacon with this jam-packed fall festival. This festival might leave your arteries aching, but you’ll be happy you rocked out at this awesome annual event in Morrisville, Vermont.

11. Pumpkin and Apple Celebration at Billings Farm and Museum

You want a scoop of homemade pumpkin ice cream with that slice of history? The first weekend in October, apple- and pumpkin-related events take over the historical Billings Farm and Museum in Woodstock, Vt. Learn about the historical importance of the apple and pumpkin crops, learn to press cider, and take part in the apple races at this event, which is just about as New England as apple pie.

12. Cruise Vermont’s Scenic Byways

Whether by motorcycle, car, or bicycle, Vermont’s state highways offer winding roads, pastoral views, and the occasional quaint town or village to explore. Take the long way to reach a destination, or just want to turn your GPS off and cruise.

13. Bring Your Vermont Fall Vacation To The Peru Fair

With over 100 vendors and countless activities, the Peru Fair offers an old fashion country flair to your Vermont fall vacation. Enjoy a small-town parade and a big ole’ pig roast to sustain you as you browse the vendor tents, peddling a variety of Vermont wares and services.

14. Ride The Dinner Train on the Green Mountain Railroad

Add some panache to your Vermont fall vacation with a gourmet meal and stellar views aboard the Green Mountain Fall Foliage Dinner Train. Winding its way from Chester to Ludlow, the Dinner Train offers a three-course meal (catered by The Chophouse), extensive drinks list, and unique environment for a fun family excursion or a romantic night out!

15. Board the Spirit of Ethan Allen Cruises

Whether your are planning a fall wedding or just need to escape the ordinary, a Lake Champlain cruise on the Spirit of Ethan Allen boasts an exceptional dining experience, stellar views from the Sky Deck, and a romantic ambiance.

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