7 Towns in Vermont with Vibrant Downtown Areas

The beautiful state of Vermont is part of New England, a stunning portion of the United States home to Maine, New Hampshire, Massachusetts, Connecticut, and Rhode Island as well. Explore amazing landscapes such as the Green Mountains, a part of the Appalachian range, or Lake Champlain. Sample delicious maple syrups and apple ciders, or go on a winery tour. But Vermont isn’t just the great outdoors; it is also a hotspot for vibrant downtown cores. Stop in at adorable boutiques, candy shops, fudge emporiums, and shops selling anything from hard-to-find records to used books. Get lost in the art scene with playhouses, outdoor concert series, rotating performances, and galleries. Browse the many murals and sculptures, or meet the locals at a pop-up market. All this and more can be found in the city centers of Vermont’s fantastic small towns.

Montpelier

The charming town of Montpelier has its stunning photos posted all over the internet, and for good reason. A picturesque Vermont escape, it’s home to Victorian-era architecture, countless outdoor activities, and an abundance of family-owned shops. Take in history with stops like the Vermont State House with its iconic gold dome or the Vermont Historical Society Museum. Walk the Montpelier Historic District and snap some pics of the decades-old buildings. Those interested in the local art scene can visit the Lost Nation Theater or Savoy Theatre, which specializes in showing arthouse films. Or, browse the vendors and displays at the Artwalk, hosted on the first Friday of several months out of the year.

If you’re in need of a pick-me-up, head to Capitol Grounds, a coffee shop located alongside the Winooski River. Grab some breakfast or sweet treats at Bohemian Bakery, and for lunch, stop in at Bent Nails Bistro. As for shopping, visit popular hotspots like Buch Spieler Records, the Quirky Pet, the Book Harden, and The Drawing Board, which sells art supplies. Call it a night and check in at Capitol Plaza Hotel right on the river, and explore Hubbard Park the next day, which features a sledding hill, seven fireplaces historic stop, plenty of hiking and cross-country trails, and a 52-foot stone tower perfect for taking in the views.

Burlington

The adorable town of Burlington is located right on Lake Champlain, with the marina’s main portion being downtown, making it easy to stroll the walkways and take in the views of the water and the sunsets. Waterfront Park is also right on the marina, featuring walkways, green spaces, and plenty of seating options. Get around town with trolley tours, walking tours, and bike rentals once you’ve walked the piers and explored the rest of downtown. Embrace your artistic side with the Flynn, a live music venue, or at Main Street Landing Performing Arts Center. Both sites are within walking distance for a fantastic evening of creative arts.

Brio Coffeeworks, Burlington Bay Market and Cafe, and Kestrel Coffee Roasters are all prime spots for a morning coffee or a small breakfast. Get the day rolling by browsing the shops, and make sure to stop at iconic storefronts, including Burlington Records, The Tinkering Turtle toy shop, Crow Book Shop, and Saratoga Olive Oil Co. For a hearty dinner after shopping, visit Church Street Marketplace, a hub next to City Hall Park with restaurants, shops, bars, and a Ben and Jerry’s. You can also find vintage clothing boutiques, leather shops, and artisan stores throughout town.

Stowe

The town of Stowe is popular amongst tourists heading to the Stowe Mountain Resort, which is only a short drive from downtown and offers a weekend of fun. And with excellent transit options, getting from town to the hill is easy. Once in town, visitors can begin their day with a cozy breakfast at local favorites like 18 Main or Black Cap Coffee and Bakery. The town’s downtown area is rich in character, featuring unique shops such as Bear Pond Book Store and Once Upon a Time Toys. History enthusiasts can delve into the past at the Vermont Ski and Snowboard Museum or the Stowe Historical Society, offering fascinating insights into the region’s heritage.

For those interested in the arts, Stowe Theatre Guild and Stowe Performing Arts provide a stage for captivating performances year-round. The town’s picturesque scenery is best enjoyed with a stroll through Sunset Rock, where a short hike rewards you with panoramic views. To end the day, consider staying at the Green Mountain Inn, a historic Victorian mansion that encapsulates Stowe’s timeless appeal.

Rutland

Rutland is a town with a downtown that just won’t quit. From amazing performances to delightful coffee shops, this downtown will keep you and the whole family busy your entire trip. In the summer, enjoy the Friday Night Live Concert Series or catch a show at the Paramount Theatre, located inside a Victorian opera house. Visitors can also browse the many murals you can spot throughout the core or walk the sculpture trail. Stay up to date with the latest happenings so you don’t miss events such as the farmer’s market, Poetry Downtown Rutland in April, Downtown Sip and Shop in May, Whoopie Pie Festival in September, the Halloween parade, Christmas Tree Lighting, and Rutland Winterfest.

Spend the day exploring local parks, including Center Street Marketplace Park and Depot Park, which hosts the summer farmers market and has beautiful gardens you can enjoy. Visit the Wonderfeet Kids Museum with little ones, or go shopping. There are dozens of places to spend your dollars, like antique stores, jewelry shops, boutiques, tea shops, streetwear clothes, and popular options such as Draw Go Games, Giuseppes Italian Market, Kaleidoscope Art Supplies, and Wild Kind Toys.

Brattleboro

Located right on the New Hampshire border, separated only by the Connecticut River, Brattleboro is a quaint riverside town sure to create lasting memories. Tourists in town look forward to exciting events like the Gallery Walk in May, featuring jugglers, dancing, a flea market, and art displays. Even if you miss out on the events, try delicious cafes anytime, such as Duchess Coffee, Mocha Joe’s Cafe, or the Blueberry Haus. One can also taste authentic Vermont brews at the Hermit Thrush Brewery or sample some liquors at Saxton’s Distillery.

For a fun day of shopping, plenty of stores beckon, such as Beadniks, which specializes in beautiful beads, Ray Gun Comics, with its collection of Superhero literature, and Tavernier Chocolates for a delicious cocoa treat. On the other hand, one can embrace the town’s art at the Brattleboro Museum and Art Center or the Hooker-Dunham Theater and Gallery. After a full day of exploring, hit the hay at downtown accommodations like the Latchis Hotel, located right by the river on Main Street.

Bennington

The little town of Bennington still packs a punch with its lengthy list of fun activities. Start your day with a classic breakfast at Sunny Side Diner or the local favorite, Your Belly’s Deli. As you explore, stop by Bennington Pizza House for a casual lunch, or opt for the more refined 421 Craft Bar and Kitchen. For dinner, the Dutchman’s Tavern provides a relaxed atmosphere with hearty meals.

Bennington’s downtown shopping scene is just as inviting. The Bennington Bookshop offers a vast selection for bibliophiles, while Knapps Toys and Hobbies caters to all ages. Gamers Grotto and Jays Art Shop add a local flair to your shopping spree. End your day with a visit to the Dollhouse and Toy Museum or a stroll through the Downtown Bennington Historic District. And if you’re in town during a festival like Harvest Fest, you’ll find the town at its most vibrant, with local crafts and entertainment filling the streets.

Woodstock

Small but mighty, the town of Woodstock is easy to explore by foot, with the downtown core taking up much of the town space. Close to New Hampshire, Woodstock sits along the Ottauquechee River and features adorable covered bridges, trails, and adventures. Check-in at the Woodstock Inn and Resort or at the Woodstock B&B, then hit the town and browse the many shops lining the downtown streets. The Yankee Bookshop covers all your reading needs, and the Village Market is full of groceries to create the perfect picnic. Furthermore, The Village Butcher serves only the best meat cuts, and F.H. Gillingham and Sons carry iconic Vermont goods such as maple syrup and apple cider.

After getting your shopping done, enthusiasts can indulge in the local art scene with the Artistree Community Arts Center or BarnArts Center for the Arts. There’s also the Town Hall Theater, Woodstock Gallery, and the Norman William’s Public Library. Depending on when you visit, participate in events such as the Woodstock Art Festival in September, the Apples and Crafts Artisan Fair in October, Wassail Weekend and Parade in December, and Taste of Woodstock in August. From vibrant pieces of art to delicious local delicacies, each event brings a fresh vibrance to the downtown area.

Wrapping Up

So whether you’re looking to experience Vermont delicacies like maple syrup and apple cider, snap some pics at the covered bridges, or shop at the most adorable bookstores and toy stores, you’ll surely find all these and more in the various downtown cores throughout Vermont. While the state might be known for its fall foliage, lush mountains, and beautiful road trip drives, there’s even more adventure to be had in the centers of small towns bustling with shops, restaurants, and history.