Vermont is a treasure trove of family fun, from peaceful lakefronts and rolling farms to bustling mountain towns and adventure parks. Whether you’re looking to explore the outdoors, learn about maple syrup, or just soak in some classic New England charm, the Green Mountain State has something for everyone, especially families! Here’s your guide to exploring Vermont with kids, broken down by Northern, Central, and Southern regions, with our families’ favorite destinations and the best family-friendly places to stay.
Northern Vermont
Top Family-Friendly Destinations
1. Burlington
- Visit ECHO Leahy Center for Lake Champlain, an interactive science and nature museum perfect for kids. My favorite part is the sweet aquatic animals.
- Take a stroll or bike ride along the Burlington Bike Path with views of Lake Champlain. It’s a great way to spend the day with the added bonus of wearing out your little ones! Don’t forget to bring binoculars for bird and wildlife watching.
- Don’t miss the Church Street Marketplace for live music, street performers, and treats. It’s truly never dull on Church Street.
2. Stowe
- Ride the Gondola SkyRide at Stowe Mountain Resort (great in summer or fall). My youngest was a little too frightened but my oldest said it was “the coolest way to travel EVER”. So I consider it a win!
- Hike the Stowe Recreation Path, an easy paved trail great for strollers or wagons.
- Cool off with ice cream at the Ben & Jerry’s Factory Tour in nearby Waterbury. We can never resist stopping!
3. Jay Peak
- Splash year-round at the Pump House Indoor Waterpark. If you’ve ever visited Vermont in the winter, you’ll understand why an active indoor option is appreciated!
- Summer brings tram rides, hiking, and mountain biking.
- Winter means skiing and snowboarding with excellent kids’ programs. When my oldest was first interested in skiing, I was overwhelmed with the amount of options there are in the area, but Jay Peak is known for having great classes for youngsters.
Best Family Lodging
- Hotel Vermont (Burlington) – Modern, cozy, and walking distance to kid-friendly spots.
- Topnotch Resort (Stowe) – Offers family suites, outdoor pool, and spa for parents.
- Jay Peak Resort Lodging – Direct access to the waterpark and slopes, with family condos.
Central Vermont
Top Family-Friendly Destinations
1. Montpelier
- Explore the Vermont State House and learn how the government works. We visit yearly for the State House Tour and use it as a school “fieldtrip”.
- Visit the North Branch Nature Center for trails and outdoor discovery.
2. Woodstock & Quechee
- Meet cows and taste fresh cheese at Billings Farm & Museum. In the spring they have fun baby animal events and in the autumn they have Harvest Days!
- Visit the breathtaking Quechee Gorge and hike the rim trail. Alternatively, there’s also Mt Tom. The top is a little steep but manageable with young children.
- Watch glassblowing at Simon Pearce Mill while enjoying lunch overlooking a waterfall.
3. Killington
- In summer, visit the Adventure Center for ropes courses, tubing, and a scenic gondola ride.
- Winter skiing and snowboarding with a ski school for young learners.
Best Family Lodging
- 506 On the River Inn (Woodstock) – Family-friendly rooms, game room, pool, and riverfront property. During the summer they have great outdoor seating where you can eat and play games.
- Killington Grand Resort Hotel – Ski-in/ski-out access, outdoor heated pool, and organized kids’ activities. We’re never bored when we visit Killington!
- Capitol Plaza Hotel (Montpelier) – Central location and classic New England charm.
Southern Vermont
Top Family-Friendly Destinations
1. Manchester
- Explore the hands-on American Museum of Fly Fishing. My husband Andy is an avid fly fisher, so needless to say we have visited more than once!
- Take the family for a hike up Mount Equinox Skyline Drive or visit Hildene, Lincoln’s family estate. Beautfiul in the summer and autumn.
- Great outlet shopping and plenty of kid-friendly eateries.
2. Brattleboro
- Browse colorful books at Everyone’s Books and check out Brattleboro Museum & Art Center. The downtown scene at Brattleboro is, in my opinion, unrivaled in Vermont.
- Hike or picnic at Fort Dummer State Park or take a swim at Living Memorial Park.
3. Stratton Mountain
- In summer, enjoy scenic lift rides, golf, and kids’ summer camps. There’s something for everyone!
- In winter, ski and snowboard with top-rated ski school programs. While my children have not taken any classes here, Andy and his siblings did growing up!
Best Family Lodging
- Kimpton Taconic Hotel (Manchester) – Boutique charm with family suites, kids’ welcome gifts, and outdoor games.
- Stratton Mountain Resort Condos – Perfect for larger families, with easy access to mountain fun year-round.
- Latchis Hotel (Brattleboro) – Historic art-deco hotel with a connected movie theater—great for a cozy evening.
Tips for Traveling in Vermont with Kids
- Pack layers! The weather can change quickly, even in summer. My littles use these rain jackets year-round, and they have lasted through both kids! Be sure to layer a sweater under it if you’re hiking in the autumn. It tends to get cold early!
- Plan for downtime. Vermont’s charm is in its slower pace—make time to relax.
- Pick your season. Summer offers lakes and hikes, fall is bursting with foliage, and winter brings epic snow adventures.
- Try local eats. Maple creemees (soft serve), fresh cheese, and farm-to-table meals are always a hit.
Whether you’re lake-hopping in the north, exploring charming farms in the center, or hiking the hills down south, Vermont is an ideal destination for traveling with kids. With cozy lodging, hands-on fun, and a whole lot of maple syrup, it’s a state full of family memories waiting to happen.