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Stowe is the quintessential Vermont mountain town, and it’s one of my favorite places in the whole state.
With its iconic white church, charming Main Street, scenic drives and mountain views, it’s the kind of place that lives up to the hype (and then some).
If you’ve only got one day, don’t worry, you can still see the best of it.
This itinerary splits the day into a morning walking tour of Stowe village and an afternoon driving tour of the surrounding highlights.
Here’s exactly how to spend one perfect day in Stowe.
🚗 Parking: Park in downtown Stowe, ideally near the ‘Welcome to Stowe’ sign, but anywhere on Main Street (or the recreation path parking lot behind the church) works for this itinerary. On the main street you get three hours of free parking.
☀️ Morning: Walking Tour of Stowe (self-guided)
This morning we will focus on exploring the town itself. Please note that you do not need a guide to do this, it’s quite small so these instructions will be enough.
In case of doubt, don’t hesitate to go to the visitor center, the staff is always incredibly helpful.
Stop 1: The ‘Welcome to Stowe’ Sign
Start at the famous ‘Welcome to Stowe’ mural and sign. This is the classic Stowe photo (you’ve probably seen on Instagram).
It’s a quick stop but you take a nice picture here. Make sure to have a look at the landmarks in each letter as that’s pretty much what you will be seeing today!
Stop 2: Stowe Covered Bridge
Once you’re done, start walking down to the roundabout and turn left to get to the covered bridge.
It’s actually called the Giles W. Dewey Memorial Bridge but there is “Stowe, Vermont” written across the top (which also makes for a pretty photo).
It’s a pedestrian covered bridge on the sidewalk. I absolutely love that bridge and the views from the ‘windows’ inside the bridge as you can see a bit of the spire of the church and of course the river.
Stop 3: Stowe Community Church Viewpoint
After a few minutes walk, you’ll get to the Stowe Community Church viewpoint.
It’s not exactly marked as an official viewpoint but it’s next to the Tangerine & Olive shop (which is also a great stop if you’re looking for souvenirs).
Also, the views speak for themselves! You’ll be able to see that white spire set against the mountains. It’s the most iconic view in all of Vermont, and it’s absolutely stunning (especially in the fall).
Stop 4: The Stowe Recreation Path
From the viewpoint, walk behind the shops and around the movie theater to make your way over to the Stowe Recreation Path.
It’s a lovely 5.3-mile trail that follows the West Branch river, but don’t worry, you’re not walking the whole thing! For this itinerary, just wander a little stretch of it.
Walk down to the path (that bit is steep but it’s flat after that), and turn right to walk towards the town.
Stop 5: Stowe Community Church
After about 20 minutes, you’ll get to the star of the show: the beautiful white Stowe Community Church.
It’s absolutely beautiful from the viewpoint, but it’s just as lovely up close, completely different though.
It’s the town’s most iconic landmark and a gorgeous spot for a few more photos. And of course, feel free to go inside!
Stop 6: Stowe Main Street
Finish your morning wandering Stowe’s charming Main Street. This is where you’ll want to take your time.
There are many independent shops, coffee shops and galleries so you’ll love browsing.
Make sure to pop into Stowe Mercantile and Shaw’s General Store (a proper Stowe institution that’s been going since 1895) for souvenirs, Vermont sweatshirts and maple treats.
It’s one of the best country stores in Vermont and you’ll probably end up spending way more time than you had planned there.
Please note that if it’s raining or you don’t want to walk around too much, the Vermont Ski and Snowboard Museum is also a great option.
🚗 Afternoon: Driving Tour of Stowe
There is a lot more to see in Stowe than just downtown so that’s why we’ll need to take the car this afternoon and go explore a bit more.
Please note that this is a bit intense so don’t hesitate to skip the brewery and the falls if you are short on time.
Stop 7: von Trapp Family Lodge & Resort
Hop in the car and drive just outside town to the von Trapp Family Lodge & Resort.
Yes, this is the estate run by the actual von Trapp family of the Sound of Music, and they still own it today!
It genuinely looks like a slice of Austria, with mountain views and Austrian-style architecture all around. It’s very surprising and almost confusing to be honest but it’s very pretty and unique.
Wander the grounds and don’t miss the adorable highland cows in the field by the cafe.
Stop 8: von Trapp Brewing & Bierhall
On your way out, stop at the von Trapp Brewing & Bierhall for a well-earned drink.
It’s a big, welcoming spot with a lovely outdoor area and gorgeous mountain views, perfect for a relaxed afternoon pint or a coffee.
While it’s part of the same estate, you’ll need to drive down a different road to go to the brewery.
Stop 9: Stowe Mountain Resort and the Stowe Gondola SkyRide (or Bingham Falls)
After that, go back to your car to drive to the mountain resort. Stowe is one of the most popular ski resorts in Vermont and for good reason!
If you are visiting between mid-june and mid-october, make sure to go on the Stowe Gondola Skyride, which carries you up Mount Mansfield, Vermont’s highest peak, for spectacular panoramic views.
It’s a bit pricey but it’s well worth it for the views, especially in the fall. The ride itself is only about 10 minutes long (one-way).
If you have a bit of spare time or are visiting in May / June when the Gondola is not yet open, I would recommend going to Bingham Falls.
It’s a short hike just off Route 108 that leads you to this gorgeous 25-foot waterfall, where you can scramble over the rocks or even take a dip in the natural pool. Please note that you need proper walking shoes though, especially for the end.
Stop 10: Drive Smugglers’ Notch
End your day with a drive through the dramatic Smugglers’ Notch (Route 108).
This narrow, twisting mountain pass is framed by towering boulders and cliffs, and it’s one of the most scenic drives in all of New England. It’s stunning in summer and absolutely magical in the fall.
Just note that it’s narrow and windy, so take it slow, and the notch section closes in winter, so it’s a warmer-months drive only.
You will end the drive in Jeffersonville which is a very small town but there is a small country store and a couple of restaurants. You can either eat here or go back to Stowe.
To go back to Stowe, there are two options. Either you come back the way you came (which is very scenic) or you loop around via Route 100. That second option is less scenic but it’s different therefore that’s up to you!
🗺️ Map of this Stowe 1-Day Itinerary
💡 A few practical tips
- Wear comfortable shoes
- The gondola and Smugglers’ Notch are seasonal, so check they’re open before you go.
- Grab a maple creemee at some point, it’s a Stowe essential!
- Start reasonably early to fit everything in, especially in peak season.
❓ Is one day in Stowe enough?
One day is enough to enjoy the highlights but if you can, stay longer so you can truly enjoy everything in more depth (the Trapp Family Lodge for example would require at least half a day).
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