Vermont’s small towns are a great place to explore, offering a perfect blend of charming downtowns, delightful dining, and breathtaking views. Whether you're a local or just visiting, these hidden gems are the ideal places to explore as the season turns. Here are five must-see towns to consider visiting this spring.

South Hero, Vermont
Located in the Lake Champlain Islands, South Hero is a charming lakeside town that comes alive in the spring. Grab a breakfast sandwich from Wally’s Bagel Place, then sip local brews at Two Heroes Brewery before browsing at the Viva Marketplace Boutique. Treat yourself to a maple creemee at Allenholm Farm, then relax with a wine tasting and scenic views at the Snow Farm Vineyard. For outdoor enthusiasts, bike the Island Line Trail, explore a nature trail, or take a leisurely drive along the shore to soak in the stunning lake views.

Shelburne, Vermont
Just 20 minutes from Burlington, Shelburne offers lake views, blooming landscapes, and a rich history. Visit the renowned Shelburne Museum or explore Shelburne Farms, a favorite for families with hands-on activities. Stroll through the village, grab a coffee at Le Marché, and browse local shops. End the day with wood-fired pizza at Folino’s or a glass of wine at the Shelburne Vineyard!

Jericho, Vermont
Jericho is located in the foothills of the Green Mountains, it is a charming town full of history, local flavor, and scenic beauty. Browse handmade goods at the Old Red Mill Craft Shop, then stop by Palmer’s Sugarhouse for classic maple treats. Take in the spring scenery at Mills Riverside Park, perfect for a peaceful walk or picnic. Savor a pastry from Lucy & Howe Bakery, then enjoy a cozy meal at Jericho Café & Tavern!

Waitsfield, Vermont
Tucked in the Mad River Valley, Waitsfield is a perfect spring destination, blending adventure, relaxation, and local charm. Stop at Twisted Halo Café for a coffee and donuts, then explore the unique shops along Bridge Road and Main Street. For a dose of fresh air, head to Lareau Park, where you’ll find a swimming hole, picnic tables, and mountain views. Unwind with a rejuvenating sauna session at the Madbush Falls Lodge, or end the day savoring craft brews and bites at Lawson’s Finest Liquids.

Bristol, Vermont
Bristol is a vibrant small town situated at the edge of the Green Mountains, about 40 minutes south of Burlington. Start your day with a coffee at Minifactory Café, then explore the charming downtown shops on Main Street. Stop by Hogback Brewing for a craft beer, enjoy a cozy meal at Bobcat Café & Brewery, or indulge in an elevated dining experience at The Tillerman Restaurant. For outdoor enthusiasts, take a short but rewarding hike to Bristol Ledges, where you'll be treated to sweeping views of the Deer Leap Natural Area at the summit.

Whether you’re savoring local food, outdoor adventures, or simply relaxing in a charming downtown, these towns are a true reflection of our brave little state's warmth and charm! Looking for more ways to embrace the season? Consider exploring some of Vermont’s best hikes or enjoying a meal with a view at a local waterfront restaurant on Lake Champlain. 

The Northwest Vermont real estate market saw notable shifts in February 2025, with the median sales price climbing to $539,500—a 24.2% increase compared to last year. Despite this price surge, closed sales dropped by 13.8%, signaling a more selective market. Homes are moving fast, with a median of just nine days on the market, while inventory continues to rise, offering more options for buyers. If you're considering buying or selling, understanding these trends is crucial. Contact us today for a personalized market analysis and expert guidance tailored to your local area!

March’s Hidden Home is a private retreat set on 2.45 acres on the stunning shores of Lake Champlain. This bright and expansive home is designed for both relaxation and entertaining, with 288 feet of lakefront, a dock, and a mooring for year-round waterfront activities.  The property also features beautiful fruit trees, mature shrubs, and perennials. The main floor has an updated eat-in kitchen with granite countertops, custom cherry cabinets, high-end appliances, and doors to the back deck. This home is currently for sale. Learn more 

Subscribe to our Monthly newsletter to see more Hidden Vermont Homes! 

Looking for something to do during the colder winter months? Northern Vermont offers plenty of ways to enjoy the season, from outdoor adventures to cozy indoor escapes. Whether you’re into extreme sports or peaceful winter walks, the season has something for something for everyone.

Ice Fishing on Lake Champlain

Ice fishing is a quintessential Vermont winter activity. Lake Champlain, a prime fishing destination, offers ample opportunities. Whether you’re a pro or just trying it out, it’s a great way to enjoy the winter outdoors. Just be sure to check the ice conditions for safety.

Snowshoeing and Cross-Country Skiing

Explore Vermont’s winter landscape on snowshoes or cross-country skis. From scenic trails like the Red Rocks Park with its lake and mountain views to groomed paths at Trapp Family Lodge and Catamount Outdoor Family Center, there are endless ways to enjoy the season. 

Outdoor Ice Skating and Pond Hockey

When conditions are just right, Vermont’s frozen lakes and ponds become the perfect setting for ice skating and pond hockey. North Hero’s City Bay offers a scenic rink on Lake Champlain, while the outdoor rink at the base of Spruce Peak is another local favorite. 

Hitting the Slopes at Vermont’s Ski Resorts

Embrace winter with a trip to top-notch ski resorts, all just a stone's throw away from Burlington, Vermont. Whether you're a seasoned pro seeking challenging terrains or you're looking for a more family-friendly mountain, Vermont’s ski resorts offer a variety of terrain for all levels.   

Snowmobiling Across the Countryside

Snowmobiling is an exciting way to explore Vermont’s winter landscape. The VAST trails connect picturesque towns and remote forests, offering miles of adventure. Trails around the Champlain Islands and Northeast Kingdom provide scenic routes for snowmobilers, but always check conditions before hitting the trail.

Cozying Up with a Winter Bonfire

Sometimes, the best winter activity is simply staying warm by the fire. Gather with friends for a cozy bonfire in your backyard or visit a local spot like Idletyme Brewing in Stowe, where the outdoor patio features inviting firepits—perfect for an après-ski hangout.

Sledding on Ski Slopes and Rolling Hills

Sledding is a fun, family-friendly winter activity best enjoyed on Vermont’s rolling country hills or ski slopes. Ski resorts like Smugglers’ Notch and local spots like Sharp Park offer epic snow tubing for thrill-seekers. Meanwhile, the Champlain Valley is home to many gentle hills, perfect for a relaxed afternoon of classic sledding fun.

Snowkiting on the Ice

For those seeking an adrenaline rush, snowkiting and kitewinging are unique winter sports that let you glide across the ice using a wing or kite. The Sandbar Causeway is a prime spot for these wind-powered adventures, offering space for jumps and tricks when the conditions are right.

 

Winter in Northern Vermont is full of adventure, whether you’re ice fishing, skiing, or simply enjoying a sunset by the fire. With so much to do, it’s easy to embrace the season and make the most of the snowy months.

If you're preparing to sell your Vermont home, you can do small upgrades to your house without breaking the bank. Instead of tackling major renovations, focus on simple, cost-effective improvements that enhance the home's appeal and value to potential buyers. Here are five of the best budget-friendly projects to help your home sell faster: 

1. Refresh Walls with Neutral Paint
A fresh coat of paint instantly makes a home look cleaner and more modern. Stick to light neutrals like white, grey, or soft beige to create a bright, inviting space that appeals to buyers and allows them to envision themselves in the home. 

2. Upgrade Kitchen & Bathroom Hardware
Swapping out dated cabinet handles, drawer pulls, and faucets is a budget-friendly way to give kitchens and bathrooms a more polished look. Stores like Amazon, Wayfair, and Lowe’s, offer stylish options in matte black, brushed nickel, or brass at affordable prices. 

3. Enhance Curb Appeal
First impressions matter! Consider curb appeal when thinking about improving your home. Simple updates like painting the front door, updating an outdoor light, adding fresh mulch, trimming bushes, and planting seasonal flowers can make a big difference in attracting buyers.

4. Replace Light Fixtures & Switch Plates
Outdated lighting can make a home feel stuck in the past. Install modern, budget-friendly fixtures in key areas like the kitchen, living, and dining room. Swapping old yellowed switch plates for crisp white ones also helps freshen up spaces.

5. Deep Clean & Declutter
One of the most cost-effective ways to increase buyer interest is to declutter and deep clean. Removing excess furniture, clearing off counters, and organizing closets can make the home feel bigger and more inviting. Next, do a deep clean of the kitchen, bathroom, floors and windows. Decluttering and deep cleaning helps homebuyers see the true potential of the home.

You don’t need a major renovation to boost your home’s value before selling. By focusing on small, impactful improvements like fresh paint, updated hardware, and curb appeal, you can create a home that stands out to buyers—without overspending. These simple upgrades can make all the difference in helping you sell quickly and at the best possible price. 

Need help deciding what projects have the best return on your investment? Get a professional opinion from one of our agents.