If you're looking for the perfect fall road trip, then only two hours from Montreal lays the 'Best Small Town in America' — Stowe, Vermont. As the autumn season rolls in, this charming town transforms into a picturesque destination known for its lush landscapes adorned in shades of red, orange, and gold. And luckily for Montrealers — you don't have to travel far to experience all the Hallmark goodness.
Stowe is your quintessential fall escape, and its close proximity to Montreal makes it an ideal destination for those seeking a quick getaway to immerse themselves in the beauty of the harvest season. In fact, Stowe was voted as one of the best small towns in America by Travel + Leisure.
The winding roads leading to Stowe are as much a part of the adventure as the destination itself, as you'll be treated to gorgeous views of the changing leaves along the way. Whether you're an outdoor enthusiast ready to tackle the numerous hiking trails, a foodie eager to savour farm-to-table cuisine, or a relaxation seeker looking to unwind in a cozy inn, Stowe offers a little bit of everything for everyone.
For those seeking a more adventurous visit, hiking Mount Mansfield might be right up your alley. You can also take advantage of the Stowe Recreation Path, the Gold Brook Covered Bridge and of course, Bingham Falls. Stowe is also home to a number of must-try breweries including the Idletyme Brewing Company, Stowe Cider, and The Alchemist Brewery, which is known for its hip and contemporary vibes and stellar taproom.
If you've got your stomach set on a hearty meal, then you just might want to look into a few notable Stowe restaurants including The Bench, Whip Bar & Grill on Main and the Cliff House Restaurant — give the mac and cheese with braised pork ribs a try and thank us later.
For the best views of the fall foliage, Go Stowe recommends a visit to Moscow and Little River or Edson, West and Brush Hill for optimal views. Visitors can also catch the changing colours along the Winooski River and Gregg Hill, too.
Why You Need To Go: Stowe, nestled in the scenic Green Mountains of Vermont, is a picturesque destination for fall foliage enthusiasts, offering a breathtaking display of autumn colours and numerous outdoor activities. Just a short drive from Montreal, it provides a perfect escape to experience the beauty of the season in a charming New England setting.
If you've been hoping to get your road trip on this fall season, then there are loads of quaint and charming small towns worth visiting this autumn where you can get up close and personal with Quebec's mesmerizing foliage.
Now, it is only a matter of time before a picturesque sea of red, orange, and gold colours takes over Quebec's landscapes. Nestled amidst this seasonal splendour are countless adorable towns, each giving off a storybook setting perfect for a fall visit.
Why You Need To Go: Eastman is a standout town with one of the oldest modern spas in all of Canada, Spa Eastman. The destination offers up a traditional spa experience including massage therapy and thermal baths, but also provides specialized retreats, some of which go as far as having you hand over your phone and electronics. You can also showcase your adventurous side with many canoe and kayak trips offered down the North Missisquoi River on a 28-mile journey that is certain to get some adrenaline rushing to boost your adventure reserves well into the autumn season.
Why You Need To Go: Dunham is located only six miles from the Canada-US border and offers much to do for any visitor. The quaint town is home to Vignoble de Ruisseau, a sugar shack that goes well beyond sugar shack essentials — they offer a three-course and a six-course tasting menu of maple goodness. You can also visit one of the 22 vineyards in Dunham, the vines of which produce Chardonnay, Merlot, Riesling, Pinot Noir, Cabernet Sauvignon, and Gewurztraminer., to name a few. Don't mind if we do, right?
Why You Need To Go: Indulge in the enchantment of autumn during your New Hampshire escape in none other than Littleton. The quaint streets are adorned with the vibrant colours of fall, providing the perfect backdrop for exploring charming boutiques, quirky bookshops, and nostalgic toy stores. Sip on a locally crafted beer at Schilling Beer Co. or savour a comforting meal at the iconic Littleton Diner — get the traditional breakfast with extra homemade hash browns and thank us later.
Littleton's eat and drink scene takes an even bigger leap further with their sweet shops including Bishop's, which offers over 60 flavours of homemade ice cream and the Chutters General Store boasting the longest continual candy counter in the world measuring 112 feet long with over 1000 sweet delights to choose from. A valid Canadian passport is required to visit Littleton, New Hampshire.
Why You Need To Go: While Burlington is certainly more of a city than a small town, it definitely gives off small-town vibes. Yeah, sure there's a Target, Walmart and Trader Joe's, which you won't find in any average "small town" but a walk down Church Street will have you feeling like you've stepped into a typical town in the middle of somewhere cute America. Stop in for a coffee at the Cosmic Grind Coffee Shop or grab a bite at the Church Street Tavern — order the turkey sandwich and French onion soup. Stroll on down to the pier afterward for remarkable views of Lake Champlain and you've got yourself the perfect autumn day.
Offering up a mix of rustic and remote vibes with access to all the big-city stores like Free People, Lululemon, and Banana Republic, you certainly get the best of both worlds. A valid Canadian passport is required to visit Burlington, Vermont.
Visitors should also visit Mont Sutton, which will host its fall festival for five weekends starting September 16. From cherished family moments to adventures for outdoor enthusiasts and exhilarating thrills on our giant zipline and zipline coaster, there's something for everyone. Additionally, you can savour the crisp fall air while enjoying chairlift rides, free outdoor concerts, invigorating hikes, disc golf, and mountain biking.
Why You Need To Go: Stowe is stunning all year round, but fall time in Stowe is next level. You can take in views of the Green Mountains, which are set ablaze with hues of red, orange and yellow from mid-September to mid-October. The town offers a blend of charm and coziness, making it an idyllic destination for a quick fall road trip from Montreal. For those who enjoy a bit of adventure, you can embark on scenic hikes along trails including the Stowe Pinnacle Trail or Bingham Falls.
Stowe is also home to many charming bed-and-breakfast inns and cozy cabins that provide an authentic New England experience. After a day of adventure, indulge in hearty, farm-to-table meals at local restaurants like Harrison's, The Bench or the Whip Bar & Grill, where you can take in fresh seasonal flavours in every bite. A valid Canadian passport is required to visit Stowe, Vermont.
Why You Need To Go: Stoneham-et-Tewkesbury, also known as Stoneham, offers an exhilarating escape into the Laurentian mountains. This idyllic destination is known for its beautiful autumn foliage throughout the Jacques-Cartier National Park. You can take advantage of the many trails through the forest as well as a few easier-to-walk areas by the Jacques-Cartier River.
With only a handful of weekends left this summer (crying real tears), opportunities for a getaway are becoming increasingly scarce. Now, does that mean you have to give up and accept that you won't be able to go on a mini vacation? No, of course not - because there are still tons of easy getaways to choose from, if you're willing to be spontaneous.
The reality is, a quick weekend vacation doesn't need to be meticulously planned out weeks beforehand. In many places, you can book accommodations right up to the night before, and as long as you have a way to get there, the rest is easy.
The great thing about the following quick getaways is that they require minimal effort to coordinate, and once you're there, it's all about relaxation. So don't feel pressure to have a perfectly organized itinerary - pick a place, grab your friends or your significant other, and decide that this weekend, you deserve a break.
We recently did a feature on this incredible lakeside spa, and it's the absolute perfect relaxing weekend getaway. Best of all, it's only an hour from Montreal, so it really does require little commitment and coordination to get there. The spa is surrounded by multiple hotels, so take your pick for the perfect escape from the city.
This beautiful little town has lots to offer in terms of nature and outdoor activities. You can relax and swim in the lake, go fishing, rent a boat, or go on a hike with stunning views. Best of all, the accommodation options are vast. Feel like staying in a hotel? No problem - you can book one easily. Craving that cottage or chalet experience? That's available too. You can even try camping or eco-lodging, so really, you can turn your Saint-Donat vacation into whatever you please.
I've spent a day at this spa before, and let me tell you, I wished I was staying there for the whole weekend. The beautiful old hotel is situated along a peaceful rushing stream, and the wooded area surrounding it has tons of relaxation spots complete with lawn chairs and hammocks. When your spa session is over, you can explore the quaint, hippie town of Wakefield, which is home to great restaurants, shops, a historic red covered bridge, and a beautiful lake that's yours to enjoy.
Disclaimer: anything I say about Ottawa is totally biased, because it's my hometown, so bear with me. That being said, Ottawa works well as a weekend getaway because it's close to the city, likely a familiar-feeling place for many Montrealers, and there's just enough to do so that you won't be bored in a two-day stay. Luckily, Narcity Ottawa has recently launched, so it's easier than ever to find things to do, places to eat, and spots to party last minute.
Many people know Stowe as a popular ski destination during the winter time, but trust me when I say it's equally as beautiful and exciting in the summer. With massive state parks nearby to explore -think waterfalls and breathtaking nature hikes - and quaint restaurants and shops throughout the town, Stowe is the breath of fresh air you've been looking for.
Saint-Sauveur is a quintessential cute small town, complete with a beautiful historic church and charming downtown area. A stay at one of their welcoming bed and breakfasts would make for a great weekend away. Best of all, it's only a ten minute drive away from the waterfalls in the town of Saint-Adele, so there's plenty to explore.
Oka National Park is a wonderful, vast expanse of nature just waiting to be discovered. There are awesome private camping spots, and a huge beach to enjoy water sports and swimming from. In just an hour's time, you can totally escape the hustle and bustle of the city and be immersed in nature - which is pretty impressive if you ask me. Really, you need not go far to experience a classic camping weekend, and Oka is the ideal spot.
Honestly, I don't have enough words to explain how amazing Lake Placid is. There are tons of hiking trails for every skill level and time frame, beautiful lakes, secret swimming spots, and great accommodation options. The Adirondacks region makes a concerted effort at environmental protection and conservation, so it truly is a nature getaway. Situated only two hours across the border, there's no excuse not to visit this magical place this summer.
Another great small town in Quebec, Chelsea feels like it was pretty much built for a weekend away. From the famous Nordik Spa, to the surrounding Gatineau hills, to gourmet cuisine at local restaurants, Chelsea really can't be beat. It's worth it just for the spa alone, but there's definitely tons of other activities to do. Be sure to bring your bikes along if possible, because there are some great trails around this area.
Alright alright, I know this is a blatantly obvious weekend getaway option. By this point, most Montrealers have been to Tremblant at least once, whether it was for a day trip, ski vacation, or quick summer trip. Either way, it still deserves a spot on this list because it remains a key go-to location that's super easy to plan last minute. You really can't go wrong with Tremblant, and even though it's mainly a ski resort, their summer activities, especially those available on the lake, are not to be ignored.
The state of Vermont is equal parts hippie paradise, nature lover's retreat, and a haven for those who love quaint, serene destinations. With ski resorts, incredible mountain peaks, lakes, countless hiking trails, and great homegrown food, you really can't go wrong with a visit to Vermont. Plus, it's the home of Ben & Jerry's. Enough said.
There are countless fun and interesting things to do in this state, but since you'll likely only have time to hit two or three spots, this list is an overview of the must-see destinations and events for a summer trip to Vermont. Whether it's a weekend getaway, a day trip, or driving a VW van through the whole state, Vermont is flexible to fit all your tastes and timelines.
It's one of the closest states to Montreal, so whether it's a weekend getaway, a day trip, or driving a VW van through the whole state, Vermont is flexible to fit all your tastes and timelines.
If you've never been to Vermont, or know anything about it at all, travelling to Burlington is a great introduction to the state. It's only about two hours from Montreal, meaning it's an easy weekend getaway or even a day trip.
In terms of things to do, Burlington is home to amazing restaurants, a cool art scene, vibrant live music, and best of all, a gorgeous waterfront with beaches. This city is representative of the quaint, relaxed nature of Vermont in general, and after spending time there, you'll undoubtedly want to come back.
Situated in the gorgeous ski haven region of Stowe, this state park is gorgeous beyond words. Trust me, I struggled to pick a photo to share; each one was more beautiful than the last. There's a waterfall, tons of areas to swim, and hiking that opens to incredible expansive views.
If you're looking for an escape, somewhere you can cool off from the heat and be removed from the hustle of the city, this park is your top choice.
No, I did not spell 'friendly' wrong, this is the actual name of this festival. Frendly is advertised as an indie music festival, but truly, it's a massive gathering of peace-loving hippies camping out on the Vermont hillside. They have morning yoga each day of the festival. They have free Ben & Jerry's every day. Their slogan is "Strangers are just friends you haven't met yet." Sound like paradise yet?
In all seriousness, I know people who go to this festival every year, and they always have the time of their lives. The whole vibe is representative of the laid-back hippie culture in Vermont, and it's just an awesome experience overall. If you're into live music, camping, and tree hugging, put this festival on your list.
Whether you're a nature lover or not, this hike is worth it beyond belief, and it's the highest peak in all of the state. The way up might be hard, but the view is unbelievable, so pack a lunch and hang out up there for hours.
This peak rests in Underhill state park, which also has camp sites available if you're looking to turn your Vermont trip into a camping weekend; no cars allowed, though - you're really off the grid.
This little resort town is normally bustling in the winter during ski season, but trust me, it's equally as beautiful and enjoyable in the summer. The main town is made up of modest shops and B&Bs that serve wholesome local food, and it's a quiet spot that's significantly less busy than Burlington.
Stowe is great for a day trip, but if you choose to stay there, it's an excellent option because of its proximity to the state parks mentioned above, as well as other lakes and mountains. Overall, it's the perfect home base for your Vermont vacation.
These falls are just outside of Stowe, so if that's where your staying, make sure to go to these falls. They're absolutely incredible, and you can swim at the base of them, which is sure to be an unforgettable experience.
The trail isn't too hard to get to, so don't be put off by an intense hike. The way there is well marked, and makes for an easy, enjoyable day.
If you're a ski or snowboard person at heart and the lack of snow always bums you out a little, Killington resort can restore all of your wishes. They have unreal summer activities that replace the regular winter thrills with things like mountain biking, bungee jumping, rides, and a mountainside roller coaster.
This resort also has golf courses, great dining, and a spa, so whether you're looking for extreme thrills or a relaxing time, Killington has something for everyone. It also works as a day adventure if you're just passing through.
If you're driving through Vermont, this is a great place to stop off at. It would also make a perfect day trip from somewhere else in the state, depending on where you're staying. I mean, people go on about the cabanes a sucre in and around Montreal, but this sugar bush (also a farm with livestock) certainly rivals anything you've come across.
This farm also has its own homemade products for sale, from maple syrup, to jam, to their homegrown agricultural products. It makes for a simple, relaxing day in the company of animals, and some seriously killer maple products.
As if you needed an excuse to go on a 5-mile long alcohol-infused tasting adventure, the charming little town of Middlebury has the absolute perfect one. You'll sample beer, wine, and cider from popular Vermont brewers, like Woodchucks and Stonecutter Spirits, at unique local bars.
All the foodies and alcohol connoisseurs (so basically all of us) will totally appreciate this much-famed tasting trail. By the end of it, you'll be so in love with Vermont (read: drunk) that you won't ever want to leave.
If this name sound familiar to you, it's because this enormous lake stretches across Vermont, New York, and parts of Canada. The Vermont portion of the lake is particularly spectacular, as it remains fairly undisturbed, and the surrounding area is home to tons of different wildlife.
There's honestly nothing better in the summer than spending a day by the lake, and at Champlain you can swim, fish, rent boats, and go kayaking or canoeing. The ambiance is so calming, and you'll get the most out of Vermont's natural beauty after spending some time here.
Friends, look at all the green in that photo. We all need more of that in our lives. The Quechee Gorge, formed about 13,000 years ago by glaciers, is one of the most popular tourist attractions in Vermont. It's breathtaking, and you can actually go right down by the river pictured above to explore more.
Even better, the town of Quechee has an awesome waterfall, a cute covered bridge, and other amazing views of the nearby forests and mountains. So basically, this town is one big photo-op that is definitely worth a visit.
Oh come on, you didn't think I'd talk about things to do in Vermont without mentioning Ben & Jerry's, did you? An ice cream aficionado like myself would never forget to mention this holy grail ice cream company, which began in this state, but has touched souls worldwide.
I know this is probably the most common, touristy thing you could do while visiting Vermont, but honestly, it's worth it. The factory offers tours, and obviously they have every flavour available in abundance for you to enjoy once it ends. Whether you care about seeing how the ice cream is made or not, it's a ton of fun just to see the heart of this amazing brand, in the state that they're from. And it's so, so damn delicious.
