Vermont’s quintessential ski town is much more than just gondolas and groomed trails. This gorgeous little mountain village is rich in gorgeous views, outdoor activities as well as delightful food. While many make the trek to Stowe for Mount Mansfield and the resort it harbors, this town has so much to offer the snow bunny. Which is why Stowe, Vermont is the perfect winter weekend destination.
We travelled up to Stowe this past week for a few days of much needed winter R&R. While we originally planned on hitting the slopes, we got caught up in snowmobiling, a reindeer farm, and brewery hopping instead – further proving that Stowe is the destination for families, friends, or a trip with the girls.
Like this travel guide? you might like my other New England winter weekend suggestions here
What to do in Stowe, Vermont
Snowmobile Vermont – Stowe, VT
This was a first for us! I had never been snowmobiling and it was SO fun. From expert to novice, this tour of Mount Mansfield’s forest is a must during your trip to Stowe. After one of the most informational and hilarious instructional videos I’ve ever seen, we broke into groups. The tour offers a variety of options: you can ride a single (yourself on the snowmobile) or double (with a friend on the back). I would definitely recommend riding solo. Not only is it more fun to drive, but it is easier too! Our instructor John, really let me ham it up (pictured below).Overall, this experience is 100% yes from me. This tour gives you a horsepower-ed look into a winter wonderland without having to wait in lift lines. They also offer tours throughout Vermont, including Killington, Mount Snow, and Okemo.
Nebraska Knoll Sugar Shack – Stowe, VT
This family run sugar shack makes the most delightful grade B maple syrup. Stop by for a tour with the owner and a jug of liquid gold.
The Alchemist – Stowe, VT
The mecca for lovers of a New England IPA, this brewery is home to the recipe of the coveted Heady Topper. They offer tours, but only daily at 4pm. So, be sure to book online before your trip. This is also the place for souvenirs. You won’t find their beer outside of the zip code.
Vermont Reindeer Farm
I will have a full post on this soon because it was better than any photos could describe. It all started when Pauline, a dairy farmer by trade, was romanticized by a Country Living cover. On the cover was a women in red holding her two very strapping reindeer. So, began a ten plus year love affair with reindeer which including finding and raising three of her own. The reindeer, all ladies, have vibrant personalities. Not strangers to the silver screen, one of the reindeer will even appear in a Hallmark film this upcoming December. One hour north of Stowe, your ticket includes entrance to the farm, a reindeer education presentation with Pauline, and a photo shoot with the ladies themselves.
Stop at the Butchery for a sandwich before hitting the slopes
The Butchery was one of our favorite meals in Stowe. The sandwiches are classic, but with amazing ingredients. The food is fresh and you can taste the love in each bite.
Cork – Stowe, VT
If you aren’t a beer fanatic but still want to enjoy a good drink, Cork is the place for you. This intimate wine bar is more than your average – It offers amazing small plates. Please, please get the prosciutto and also the mussels. They also serve all natural wine that is thoughtfully sourced and expertly cultivated. It is the place for celebrating new or old love while enjoying laugh, good food and amazing wine.
Where to Stay for a Winter Weekend in Stowe, VT
Located within walking distance from downtown Stowe, the Field Guide is peppered with eye catching details. From the homemade breakfast by the roaring fireplace every morning to each thoughtfully designed intimate corner, every moment you spend at the Field Guide feels like a relaxing sigh. The modern ski lodge is the perfect place to wind down with the family, kick off the ski boots, or read that book that has been on your shelf for years. This haven also offers late night beverages and a snack each afternoon. The chocolate chip cookies sprinkled with sea salt were just what we needed at check in after making the three hour trek from Boston.
We stayed in one of the suites on the property. It was a quiet corner of the lodge, had a living room with a fireplace, a balcony overlooking the town, and the most amazing bathtub I’ve ever seen. Every morning after rubbing the sleep from our eyes, we grabbed a hot cup of coffee (or tea) in the 24 hour booth just steps away from our door. Tip toeing back to our room, we read by the fire while enjoying the first sips and admiring the sprinkling snow from our window. After morning joe, we walked down to the gorgeous lobby (pictured below). One of my favorite things about the Lark Hotels is the breakfast. The field guide feeds a hotel appetite, but with a bed & breakfast palate.
While we didn’t indulge, the Field Guide also offers a hot tub, heated pool (summer), outdoor eating area and bar.
Book your next weekend stay here
We stayed at the Field Guide free of charge in return for an honest review.
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