8-Day Burlington → Stowe Itinerary — Fall 2026

06:00

Depart from home for Detroit Metro Airport

Allow ample time for check-in and security. Arrive at DTW at least 90 minutes before your 10:53 departure.

📍 Detroit Metro Airport (DTW), Detroit, MI

10:53

Depart Detroit Metro Airport (DTW) on flight to Burlington International Airport (BTV)

Flight duration is approximately 2 hours. Early September skies over New England are often clear — grab a window seat for stunning aerial views of Lake Champlain on approach to Burlington.

📍 Detroit Metro Airport (DTW), Terminal

14:45

Arrive at Burlington International Airport (BTV)

Collect any checked baggage and head to ground transportation. Burlington airport is small and easy to navigate. Consider renting a car here if you haven't already — it is strongly recommended for exploring Stowe and surrounding areas.

📍 Burlington International Airport, 1200 Airport Dr, South Burlington, VT

15:30

Check in to Homewood Suites by Hilton Burlington

Standard check-in is typically 3:00–4:00 PM. The suite-style rooms are spacious and include a kitchenette — ideal for storing local Vermont snacks and cider you'll pick up along the way. Ask the front desk for current fall foliage conditions.

📍 Homewood Suites by Hilton Burlington, Burlington, VT

16:15

Freshen up and orient yourself, then stroll to Church Street Marketplace

Burlington's iconic pedestrian shopping and dining district. In early September the maples are just beginning to turn — the light is golden and the energy is vibrant. Browse local boutiques, galleries, and street performers as you settle into Vermont time.

📍 Church Street Marketplace, Burlington, VT 05401

17:15

Visit Onyx Tonics for a locally-roasted specialty coffee or espresso drink

One of Burlington's most celebrated micro-roasters. Try their single-origin pour-over to taste the craft. Great place to chat with locals and get neighborhood tips.

📍 Onyx Tonics, 208 Flynn Ave, Burlington, VT (or their Church Street-adjacent café)

18:00

Walk to the Burlington Waterfront and enjoy Lake Champlain at golden hour

The lakeside path offers sweeping views of the Adirondacks across Lake Champlain. In early September the light is spectacular just before sunset. Pack a light jacket as lake breezes can be cool.

📍 Burlington Waterfront Park, Burlington, VT 05401

19:30

Dinner at Hen of the Wood Burlington

One of Vermont's most celebrated farm-to-table restaurants. The menu rotates seasonally and highlights local farms — ideal to kick off a Vermont autumn trip. Make reservations in advance as tables fill quickly. Try the mushroom toast and any featured Vermont cheese board.

📍 Hen of the Wood, 55 Cherry St, Burlington, VT 05401

21:00

Evening stroll along Church Street and return to hotel

Enjoy the relaxed evening atmosphere. Burlington has a lively but unhurried pace at night. Get to bed at a reasonable hour — full days of exploring await.

📍 Church Street Marketplace, Burlington, VT

22:00

Return to Homewood Suites and rest

Rest and prepare for a full day of Burlington exploration tomorrow.

📍 Homewood Suites by Hilton Burlington, Burlington, VT

07:30

Morning breakfast at hotel or grab coffee and pastry at Kestrel Coffee Roasters

A beloved neighborhood roaster with rotating single-origin coffees. The relaxed, cozy atmosphere is quintessentially Burlington. Perfect start to a full Vermont day.

📍 Kestrel Coffee Roasters, 79 Main St, Burlington, VT 05401

08:30

Explore the Intervale Center and riverside trails along the Winooski River

A unique agricultural and natural area along the Winooski River. Early September light filters beautifully through the trees here. The farmland and river corridor offer a peaceful morning walk. Free to visit.

📍 Intervale Center, 180 Intervale Rd, Burlington, VT 05401

10:00

Visit the ECHO, Leahy Center for Lake Champlain

An engaging science and nature museum focused on Lake Champlain's ecosystem. Excellent for understanding the region's natural history. Allow 1–1.5 hours. Check for any special fall programming or exhibits.

📍 ECHO Leahy Center, 1 College St, Burlington, VT 05401

11:30

Lakeside walk along the Burlington Bike Path northward toward the Causeway

The paved path hugs the lakeshore and is perfect for a crisp September morning. Walk or rent a bicycle nearby. The 3-mile Lake Champlain Bike Ferry Causeway offers stunning lake and mountain views.

📍 Burlington Bike Path, starting at Waterfront Park, Burlington, VT

13:00

Lunch at Penny Cluse Café

A beloved Burlington institution known for hearty, locally sourced brunch and lunch plates. Expect a possible short wait — it's worth it. Try the black bean burrito or Vermont cheddar grits.

📍 Penny Cluse Café, 169 Cherry St, Burlington, VT 05401

14:30

Explore the South End Arts District — galleries and studios

Burlington's creative hub. The Pine Street corridor is lined with galleries, artist studios, design shops, and independent eateries. September is an excellent time to visit as the area is active before the tourist shoulder season winds down.

📍 South End Arts District, Pine St corridor, Burlington, VT

16:00

Visit Vermont Artisan Designs and local craft shops on Church Street

A curated showcase of Vermont-made crafts, pottery, jewelry, and art. An ideal spot to pick up a meaningful local keepsake. Church Street boutiques nearby also carry Vermont-made goods.

📍 Vermont Artisan Designs, 115 College St, Burlington, VT 05401

17:00

Wine and cheese hour at Dedalus Wine Shop & Market

An outstanding natural wine bar and market. Pair a Vermont farmhouse cheese with a glass of natural wine for a classic New England moment. Staff are exceptionally knowledgeable and welcoming.

📍 Dedalus Wine, 100 Main St, Burlington, VT 05401

18:30

Dinner at Misery Loves Co.

Located a short drive into adjacent Winooski, this acclaimed restaurant offers inventive, locally driven cuisine in a warm, intimate setting. One of Vermont's most innovative dining experiences. Reservations highly recommended.

📍 Misery Loves Co., 46 Main St, Winooski, VT 05404

20:30

Return to Burlington waterfront for a sunset nightcap at Foam Brewers

A waterfront craft brewery with an incredible selection of small-batch beers. The outdoor patio faces Lake Champlain — perfect for an evening drink as the stars emerge over the Adirondacks.

📍 Foam Brewers, 112 Lake St, Burlington, VT 05401

22:00

Return to Homewood Suites and rest

Rest well — tomorrow includes a day trip to Shelburne Museum and the Champlain Valley.

📍 Homewood Suites by Hilton Burlington, Burlington, VT

07:30

Breakfast at hotel, then depart for Shelburne Farms

Take advantage of the hotel's complimentary breakfast. Load up for a full day of exploration. Drive to Shelburne is approximately 20 minutes south on Route 7.

📍 Homewood Suites by Hilton Burlington, Burlington, VT

08:30

Morning visit to Shelburne Farms — farm walk and creamery tour

A working 1,400-acre farm, National Historic Landmark, and nonprofit education center on the shores of Lake Champlain. The Farm Barn and Breeding Barn are architectural wonders. Purchase their legendary aged cheddar at the farm store. Open daily; tours run in the morning.

📍 Shelburne Farms, 1611 Harbor Rd, Shelburne, VT 05482

10:30

Explore Shelburne Museum

One of America's great folk art and Americana museums, spread across 45 acres with 39 historic structures including a covered bridge and a full-size Lake Champlain steamship. Allow at least 2–2.5 hours. A world-class cultural treasure — don't miss it.

📍 Shelburne Museum, 6000 Shelburne Rd, Shelburne, VT 05482

13:00

Picnic lunch on the grounds of Shelburne Museum or nearby lake overlook

Pack lunch items from the Shelburne Farms farm store or a local deli. Shelburne Bay Park nearby offers lovely lake views. A perfect Vermont autumn afternoon picnic setting.

📍 Shelburne Museum Grounds / Shelburne Bay Park, Shelburne, VT

14:30

Drive the Champlain Valley Orchard Route — stop at Cold Hollow Cider Mill area orchards

Alternatively, visit Champlain Orchards for a u-pick apple experience and fresh-pressed cider. Early September brings Honeycrisp, Macoun, and early heritage varieties. This is the authentic Vermont autumn orchard experience. Call ahead to confirm u-pick availability.

📍 Champlain Orchards, 3597 VT-74 W, Shoreham, VT (approx. 45 min south)

16:30

Return drive to Burlington — stop at Vergennes for a walkabout

Vermont's smallest city is a charming detour with independent shops and cafés along Main Street. Stop for a coffee or a browse through local artisan shops before heading back to Burlington.

📍 Vergennes, VT (along Route 7 North)

18:00

Return to hotel, freshen up, and begin packing for Stowe tomorrow

Lay out clothing for tomorrow's scenic drive to Stowe. Check foliage reports — the Stowe area often peaks slightly after Burlington due to higher elevation.

📍 Homewood Suites by Hilton Burlington, Burlington, VT

19:00

Dinner at Leunig's Bistro & Café on Church Street

A Burlington institution with a warm Parisian bistro atmosphere. Seasonal Vermont menu with excellent cocktails. Perfect for a relaxed final evening in Burlington before departing for Stowe.

📍 Leunig's Bistro & Café, 115 Church St, Burlington, VT 05401

21:00

Final evening walk along Church Street and return to hotel

Savor your last Burlington evening. Pick up any last-minute local provisions or souvenirs.

📍 Church Street Marketplace, Burlington, VT

22:00

Rest at Homewood Suites — prepare for early departure to Stowe

Set an alarm for a comfortable morning departure. The drive to Stowe is approximately 40 minutes via I-89 East to Route 100 North.

📍 Homewood Suites by Hilton Burlington, Burlington, VT

07:30

Breakfast at hotel, check out of Homewood Suites Burlington

Enjoy the complimentary breakfast one last time. Confirm checkout by the hotel's standard time (typically 11 AM, though you'll leave well before). Ensure all luggage is loaded before departing.

📍 Homewood Suites by Hilton Burlington, Burlington, VT

09:00

Depart Burlington by car, drive scenic Route 2 East to I-89 North, then Route 100 North to Stowe

The drive via Route 100 through Waterbury is one of Vermont's most scenic corridors in early autumn. Take your time on Route 100 North from Waterbury — the hillsides begin their turn here. Stop in Waterbury if you wish to see the Ben & Jerry's Factory.

📍 Burlington, VT to Stowe, VT — approximately 40 miles, 45–50 minutes

09:45

Optional stop: Ben & Jerry's Factory Tour in Waterbury

A fun and quintessentially Vermont detour. Factory tours run regularly throughout the day (30 min). The Flavor Graveyard is a quirky highlight. Purchase a scoop or a Vermont-exclusive flavor before continuing to Stowe.

📍 Ben & Jerry's Factory, 1281 Waterbury-Stowe Rd, Waterbury, VT 05676

11:00

Arrive in Stowe — check in to Green Mountain Inn

A historic inn dating to 1833 in the heart of Stowe Village. The property exudes classic New England charm with period furnishings and warm hospitality. If your room isn't ready, store luggage with the concierge and head out to explore.

📍 Green Mountain Inn, 18 Main St, Stowe, VT 05672

12:00

Lunch at Piecasso Pizzeria & Lounge in Stowe Village

A beloved local spot with creative pizzas and excellent salads. Cozy atmosphere and great Vermont craft beer selection. Perfect casual lunch to fuel up for afternoon hiking.

📍 Piecasso Pizzeria & Lounge, 1899 Mountain Rd, Stowe, VT 05672

13:30

Explore Stowe Village — covered bridge, shops, and village green

Wander the charming village center with its white church steeple, local boutiques, and the historic Gold Brook Covered Bridge (Emily's Bridge) nearby on Covered Bridge Rd. One of Vermont's most photographed autumn scenes.

📍 Stowe Village, Main St, Stowe, VT 05672

15:00

Drive or walk the Stowe Recreation Path — scenic foliage walk along the West Branch River

A 5.3-mile paved path winding through meadows, over covered bridges, and along the river with Mount Mansfield looming overhead. In mid-September the foliage is beginning its spectacular turn. Walk, jog, or rent a bike at nearby shops.

📍 Stowe Recreation Path, starting at Stowe Community Church, Main St, Stowe, VT

17:00

Cider doughnut stop at Cold Hollow Cider Mill

Vermont's most famous cider mill, producing fresh-pressed apple cider year-round on a vintage rack-and-cloth press. The cider doughnuts are legendary — warm, light, and dusted with cinnamon sugar. Watch them being made and grab a gallon of fresh cider to take back to the inn.

📍 Cold Hollow Cider Mill, 3600 Waterbury-Stowe Rd, Waterbury Center, VT 05677

18:30

Return to Green Mountain Inn, freshen up

Relax in your room and take in the ambiance of this historic inn. The common areas and fireplaces are wonderful in the early evening.

📍 Green Mountain Inn, 18 Main St, Stowe, VT 05672

19:30

Dinner at The Whip Bar & Grill at Green Mountain Inn

Dine in-house at this beloved inn restaurant known for its locally sourced Vermont menu, creative cocktails, and warm atmosphere. A wonderful introduction to Stowe's culinary scene without straying far from your comfortable inn.

📍 The Whip Bar & Grill, 18 Main St, Stowe, VT 05672

21:00

Evening at leisure — inn lounge or stargazing outside

Stowe has very little light pollution. Step outside the inn on clear September nights for remarkable stargazing. The Milky Way is often visible. A perfect end to your first night in the mountains.

📍 Green Mountain Inn, Stowe, VT

07:00

Early morning sunrise hike — Sterling Pond Trail or Stowe Pinnacle

Stowe Pinnacle is a moderate 2.7-mile round-trip hike to a bald summit with sweeping 360-degree views of the Green Mountains and early foliage color. Begin at sunrise for the best golden light and to avoid afternoon crowds. Bring water, layers, and hiking boots — temperatures at elevation can be 10–15°F cooler.

📍 Stowe Pinnacle Trailhead, Pinnacle Rd, Stowe, VT (or Sterling Pond via Smugglers' Notch)

09:30

Post-hike breakfast at Perk Coffee + Café or The Depot Street Malt Shop

A cozy local coffee and breakfast spot on Mountain Road. Fresh pastries, egg sandwiches, and locally roasted coffee. Ideal reward after an early morning hike. Busy on weekends — arrive early.

📍 Perk Coffee + Café, 359 Mountain Rd, Stowe, VT 05672

11:00

Drive scenic Route 108 through Smugglers' Notch State Park

One of Vermont's most dramatic drives — a narrow pass through towering rock formations flanked by moss-covered boulders and dense forest. The notch is closed to large vehicles and trailers. Park at any of the pullouts and take short walks to see massive glacial boulders. Stunning foliage framing in September.

📍 Smugglers' Notch, Route 108 North, Stowe, VT

12:30

Picnic lunch at Smugglers' Notch or return to Stowe Village

Bring picnic items from a local market (Shaw's or a Stowe Village deli). The forest picnic areas along Route 108 offer dramatic scenery. Alternatively, drive back into Stowe Village for lunch at one of the Main Street eateries.

📍 Smugglers' Notch State Park, Route 108, Stowe, VT

14:00

Explore the Long Trail — Short section hike on the Long Trail near Nebraska Notch

The Nebraska Notch Trail connects to the Long Trail and leads through a beautiful boreal forest to Lake Mansfield — a 4.8-mile round trip at a leisurely pace. This section offers the classic Long Trail experience without requiring technical skill. Look for early maples turning crimson and orange along the trail edges.

📍 Nebraska Notch Trailhead, Moscow Rd, Stowe, VT

16:30

Visit the Vermont Ski and Snowboard Museum

A charming and surprisingly rich museum celebrating Vermont's ski heritage, located in the historic Town Hall building. Great background on Stowe's ski culture and the von Trapp family's connection to Vermont. Takes about 45–60 minutes.

📍 Vermont Ski and Snowboard Museum, 1 S Main St, Stowe, VT 05672

18:00

Craft beer tasting at von Trapp Brewing

Yes, that von Trapp family — the Austrian refugees of Sound of Music fame settled in Stowe and now run a world-class lager brewery on their stunning hillside property. The view from the bierhall is breathtaking, especially in early autumn. Try the Vienna Lager and the Dunkel. Sunsets here are unforgettable.

📍 von Trapp Brewing, 1333 Luce Hill Rd, Stowe, VT 05672

19:30

Dinner at Plate Restaurant at Stowe Mountain Lodge

Upscale but approachable dining at Stowe Mountain Lodge with views of the ski slopes and surrounding mountains. The menu features Vermont-raised meats, locally foraged mushrooms, and seasonal produce. Reservations recommended.

📍 Plate Restaurant, 7412 Mountain Rd, Stowe, VT 05672

21:30

Return to Green Mountain Inn and evening wind-down

A full and rewarding day. The inn's warm atmosphere and comfortable beds are well deserved. Tomorrow offers more hiking and foliage exploration.

📍 Green Mountain Inn, 18 Main St, Stowe, VT 05672

07:30

Breakfast at McCarthy's Restaurant

A Stowe institution for hearty Vermont breakfasts since the 1970s. Classic eggs, pancakes, and Vermont maple syrup. Cash or credit welcome. A no-frills, beloved local diner experience.

📍 McCarthy's Restaurant, 454 Mountain Rd, Stowe, VT 05672

09:00

Drive to Moss Glen Falls — short hike to one of Vermont's most beautiful waterfalls

A short, easy 0.5-mile walk through a gorge to a stunning 125-foot waterfall. In September the surrounding forest creates a magical, cathedral-like atmosphere. The falls are often less crowded in the morning. Wear sturdy footwear as the trail can be damp.

📍 Moss Glen Falls Natural Area, Randolph Rd, Stowe, VT

10:30

Visit Gold Brook Covered Bridge (Emily's Bridge) and surrounding countryside

One of Vermont's most photographed covered bridges, built in 1844. The surrounding pastoral landscape of meadows and hillsides is quintessential Vermont autumn imagery. Bring a camera — this is one of the iconic foliage shots of New England.

📍 Gold Brook Covered Bridge, Covered Bridge Rd, Stowe, VT 05672

11:30

Foliage scenic drive — Route 100 South to Morrisville, then loop back via Route 15

A leisurely loop drive through the Lamoille River Valley and surrounding hill farms. The river valley frames the mountain ridgelines brilliantly. Pull over at any farm stand or overlook — there are many unplanned treasures along this route.

📍 Route 100 South from Stowe, VT

13:00

Lunch at Harvest Market in Stowe Village

A beloved local gourmet market and café with excellent sandwiches, soups, and Vermont provisions. Pick up local cheese, maple products, and fresh bread for a picnic or as gifts. Great selection of Vermont-made specialty foods.

📍 Harvest Market, 1031 Mountain Rd, Stowe, VT 05672

14:30

Afternoon at Stowe Mountain Resort Gondola Skyride for panoramic foliage views

The gondola runs in autumn for foliage sightseers, ascending to the summit of Mt. Mansfield (Vermont's highest peak at 4,393 ft). The views are among the finest in the Northeast — a patchwork of crimson, gold, and orange spreading to the horizon. Check the resort website for autumn gondola operating hours and ticket prices.

📍 Stowe Mountain Resort, 5781 Mountain Rd, Stowe, VT 05672

16:30

Browse local artisan shops and galleries on Mountain Road

The stretch between Stowe Village and the mountain is lined with galleries, craft studios, and specialty shops. Look for Vermont pottery, maple products, locally made woolen goods, and artisan jewelry — perfect for gifts or personal keepsakes.

📍 Mountain Road (Route 108), Stowe, VT

18:00

Relax at Green Mountain Inn — spa, pool, or fireside lounge

The inn has a pool and relaxation amenities. A final evening of rest and reflection before your last full evening in Stowe. Consider sitting by the fireplace in the common area with a glass of Vermont cider.

📍 Green Mountain Inn, 18 Main St, Stowe, VT 05672

19:30

Farewell dinner at Harrison's Restaurant

A warm, inviting restaurant in the heart of Stowe Village with locally sourced New American cuisine and an excellent Vermont cheese selection. A wonderful setting for a memorable final Vermont dinner. Reservations recommended.

📍 Harrison's Restaurant, 25 Main St, Stowe, VT 05672

21:30

Final evening stroll through Stowe Village

Take a slow, reflective walk through the beautifully lit village. The white church steeple glowing at night is a classic Vermont image to carry home. Stop for a nightcap at a local tavern if desired.

📍 Stowe Village, Main St, Stowe, VT

22:30

Return to Green Mountain Inn — pack and prepare for early departure tomorrow

Your flight departs Burlington at 06:00 AM tomorrow. Pack tonight and set your alarm for no later than 3:30 AM to allow adequate drive time to BTV and airport check-in. Confirm checkout arrangements with the front desk this evening.

📍 Green Mountain Inn, 18 Main St, Stowe, VT 05672

03:30

Wake up, final preparations, and check out of Green Mountain Inn

Arrange an express early checkout the evening prior if the inn's front desk is unstaffed at this hour. Confirm car is loaded the night before. Leave no later than 04:00 AM for the airport.

📍 Green Mountain Inn, 18 Main St, Stowe, VT 05672

04:00

Depart Stowe by car, drive to Burlington International Airport (BTV)

Early morning roads will be clear. Drive carefully on Route 100 South to I-89 West. Return rental car to the airport rental facility upon arrival. Allow time for rental car return and a 06:00 AM departure check-in requirements.

📍 Stowe, VT to Burlington International Airport, South Burlington, VT — approximately 40 miles, 45 minutes

04:45

Arrive at Burlington International Airport — return rental car and check in

BTV is a small airport and security lines are typically short. However, at this early hour, confirm the terminal and check-in counter opening times in advance. Have all documentation ready for efficient check-in.

📍 Burlington International Airport (BTV), 1200 Airport Dr, South Burlington, VT

05:15

Clear security and proceed to departure gate

Grab a coffee from any open airport café if available. Review your Vermont memories and photos while waiting at the gate.

📍 Burlington International Airport (BTV), Departures

06:00

Depart Burlington International Airport (BTV) on flight to Detroit Metro Airport (DTW)

Departure at 06:00 AM. Enjoy the aerial views of Lake Champlain and the Green Mountains at sunrise — a breathtaking final farewell to Vermont from above.

📍 Burlington International Airport (BTV), Burlington, VT

10:57

Arrive at Detroit Metro Airport (DTW)

Welcome home. Collect any checked baggage and proceed to ground transportation. You return with Vermont cider, maple syrup, artisan cheese, and memories of blazing hillsides, covered bridges, and lakeside sunsets to carry through the coming months.

📍 Detroit Metro Airport (DTW), Detroit, MI

8-Day Burlington → Stowe Itinerary — Fall 2026 - Vermont Foliage Escape

Day 1 — 2026-09-07

Day 2 — 2026-09-08

Day 3 — 2026-09-09

Day 4 — 2026-09-10

Day 5 — 2026-09-11

Day 6 — 2026-09-12

Day 7 — 2026-09-13

Planning a trip like this one?