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. 

Embrace winter in Vermont with a trip to some of its top-notch ski resorts, all just a stone's throw away from Burlington, Vermont. Whether you're a seasoned pro seeking challenging terrains or a first-timer eager to learn, the Green Mountains have something for everyone. 

Cochran's Ski Area, Richmond, Vermont

Cochran's Ski Area stands out as a non-profit organization and a small family-friendly mountain. Renowned for its affordability and commitment to ski racing programs, this hidden gem promises an intimate and welcoming atmosphere for skiers and riders of all levels. It is located just a mere 25 minutes from the bustling city of Burlington, Vermont 

Bolton Valley Resort, Bolton Valley, Vermont

Bolton Valley Resort beckons with its diverse terrain, offering a mix of challenges for all skill levels. Approximately 30 minutes from Burlington, this smaller mountain is very well known for its unique night skiing and delicious waffles from the waffle cabin. 

Smugglers' Notch Resort, Jeffersonville, Vermont 

Venture about 50 minutes from Burlington, and you'll find yourself immersed in the family-friendly embrace of Smugglers' Notch Resort. You’ll find diverse terrain and extensive amenities. This resort caters to novice and expert skiers with three big mountains, Morris, Sterling, and Madonna. 

Stowe Mountain Resort, Stowe, Vermont

Approximately 50 minutes to an hour from Burlington, Stowe Mountain Resort beckons with its iconic mountain views and well-groomed trails. The charming resort town offers amazing après-ski options throughout the village and up and along Mountain Road. Making it a fun destination to experience all that winter in Vermont has to offer. 

Sugarbush Resort, Warren, Vermont

Situated around an hour from Burlington, Sugarbush Resort is a winter haven with two mountains—Lincoln Peak and Mt. Ellen. Its diverse terrain and plethora of winter activities ensure there's never a dull moment on the slopes. It is a perfect destination for those seeking a variety of experiences with Vermont's picturesque landscapes.

Before planning your ski adventure, check the latest information on trail conditions, available amenities, and distances. Road conditions and travel times may vary, especially with unpredictable winter weather. 

Looking for more winter activities to explore in Vermont? Read our Winter Activity Guide to the Lake Champlain Islands. 

It's time to celebrate Vermont's sweetest season! The Vermont Maple Sugar Makers' Association is hosting the 2023 Maple Open House across two weekends, March 25 & 26 and April 1 & 2 . During this annual event, local Vermont Maple Sugar Makers invite you into their sugarhouses to celebrate the 2023 crop. The maple experts will teach you about the cherished Vermont tradition. This event includes maple education, guided tours, and delicious sweet maple samples. Keep reading for the inside scoop on the top 10 Vermont sugar houses you simply can't miss.

1. Snow Farm Vineyard

Head to Snow Farm Vineyard in South Hero, Vermont, for their Maple Open House at Fox Hill Maple. They have many activities, such as a guided tour, live music, games, and a pancake dinner! 

Open House Information

2. Palmers Sugar House

Palmer’s Sugar House invites the community to their Maple Open House in Shelburne, Vermont. You can expect to enjoy tours, barnyard animals, and maple breakfast and lunch! Plus, this is only 10 minutes away from Burlington, Vermont. 

Open House Information

3. Shelburne Farms  

Visit Shelburne Farms in Shelburne, Vermont, to see the sugarhouse and take an interactive tour to learn about the sugaring process. Then enjoy activities such as a scavenger hunt and sugar on snow! They will have a variety of samples and guided tours, plus a stroll through the woods full of maple trees. 

Open House Information

4. Gange Maple 

Gange Maple in Swanton, Vermont, has cultivated maple syrup in northern Vermont for five generations! Their open house festivities include delicious maple creemees, educational information, and a walk in the sugaring woods. 

Maple Open House Information

5. SugarTree Maple Farm

In Williston, Vermont, Sugartree Maple Farm will have a tour of their sugarhouse, maple hotdogs, and even maple adult beverages by Bevo Catering company. 

Open House Information

6. Mountainview Mapleworks at the Giroux Family Farm

Visit Mountainview Mapleworks, in Richmond, Vermont, to see their family-run operation that includes a solar-powered sugarhouse! They will have trails to see the running sap, excellent maple samples, and even maple coffee and doughnuts! There is ample parking, and they will also have Vermont maple syrup for sale.

Open House Information

7. Palmer Lane Maple

Palmer Lane Maple in Jericho, Vermont, will have many sweet treats such as maple cream donuts, maple hot dogs, creemees and much more! They are also collecting items for their local food shelf. If you bring two small food items, you get a small bag of maple cotton candy for free!

Open House Information

8. End-O-Road Maple

End-O-Road Maple’s open house in Jericho, Vermont, will have maple goodies, an opportunity to feed their sheep. Voted one of the top sugarhouses in Chittenden county, this is a must-see spot! 

Open House Information

9. Browns River Maple 

This local family-owned and operated sugar house in Essex Junction, Vermont, will have tours, samples, and snacks. Browns River Maple will also have a fundraiser going on for Dragonheart Vermont.

Open House Information

10. Mcbride’s Family Maple

Head to Westford, Vermont, to check out Mcbride’s family maple’s small but highly efficient solar-powered operation!  They will have sugar-making demonstrations, samples, and lots of information for visitors.

Open House information

Read the entire guide of all Vermont sugarhouses participating in the 2023 Maple Open House weekends here. 

We don’t have a crystal ball to see the future of the real estate market, but we can assess the current conditions and bring an objective eye to the table. In the past year, our REALTORS^® guided over 130 families through this fast-paced market. They have the area expertise, market knowledge and negotiating skills to guide you home. Here are some of the top questions we’re hearing from clients:

1. Will the real estate market shift in 2022?

While there are a number of factors that play into the real estate market, we predict that 2022 will see continued trends of light inventory and high buyer demand. Interest rates are on the rise but remain historically low still making today an opportune time to buy a home.

2. Is it true home sellers are getting offers over asking?

The key to selling a home is pricing it at fair market value, from the start, to attract the most potential buyers resulting in showings and offers. This market is competitive with some homes seeing multiple offer situations that ultimately drive up the sales price.

3. So it’s a good time to sell, but what about buying?

Interest rates are rising but remain at all time lows. They are expected to increase throughout the year and with the rise, the amount buyers would be able to afford will go down. Our real estate advocates will help you put your best offer forward and stand out among the competition.

4. What is my home worth today?

Your home has never been worth more. Median home prices in Northwest Vermont have risen 16% from 2020*. Dreaming of retirement or your next investment? Now is this time to get the most value out of your home. 

*NVRA Market Report December 2021

Wondering if now is the right time to list your home? You may be surprised. Don't wait to list until the spring, get a free market analysis to find out today!