Families with outdoor explorers of all sizes can choose their own adventure in Stowe, Vermont. A destination that blends natural beauty and creature comforts, Stowe is a haven for families eager to explore a picturesque part of the Green Mountains in any season.
With over 125 ski trails at Stowe Mountain Resort and a bustling downtown filled with local shops and restaurants, Stowe offers visitors adventure with a hint of luxury against a backdrop of Mt. Mansfield, the state’s tallest peak. From skiing, snowshoeing, and skating in winter to hiking, biking, and zip lining in other seasons, Stowe is a year-round destination.
Read on for some of our favorite things to do in Stowe, Vermont with kids when we’re lucky enough to find ourselves in “the Aspen of the East,” including family-friendly hotels in Stowe, Vermont and great Stowe, Vermont restaurants for kids. Our Vermont Travel Guide has even more great places to visit in this beautiful state, including our ultimate guide to family activities in Burlington, VT.
Best Things To Do in Stowe with Kids (Year-Round)
1. Stowe Recreation Path — Stowe Village
Walk, bike, or cross-country ski along the town’s Recreation Path. Starting in Stowe Village and ending at a pretty covered bridge, this flat and level trail is great for beginning bikers or strollers and provides access to restaurants, lodges, and local businesses along the way. Though the whole trip is 5.3 miles, families with small children might just want to hike a portion of it.
2. Sunset Rock — Stowe
Hike up to Sunset Rock (best in spring, summer, or fall). This short but steep hike, leading to pretty views of nearby peaks, is a perfect scramble for young elementary schoolers because it’s exactly one mile and takes just about an hour. Point out the wildlife-themed trail markers painted by local kids and the glacier-made kettle hole halfway to the top.
3. Sterling Pond
For killer views of both Mansfield and the Worcester mountain range in the distance, try a family hike at Sterling Pond. This easy 2.8-mile trail is a great challenge for slightly older kids. For younger ones, try the 1.4-mile loop around Sterling Pond. Keep in mind that a fishing license is needed if you decide to cast.
4. Fly Rod Shop — Stowe
The Fly Rod Shop offers two-hour casting lessons just right for families. Looking for more traditional fishing? The “Family Gone Fishing” program, in which kids will delight in catching smallmouth bass, rainbow trout, and other types of fish. Keep in mind that the program is three hours long and involves a 10-minute walk to a secret fishing location, so it might not be ideal for younger children.
5. Stowe Rocks Climbing Center — Stowe
At this indoor climbing center, instructors prep kids on safety and point out the best color-coded, ability-based routes. The KidZone climbing area for children ages 12 and under has a 6-foot wall featuring fun climbing spots such as airplanes, trains, and trucks.
6. The Swimming Hole — Stowe
Warm up at this indoor pool, which has a water slide that is open each afternoon. Luckily for parents who find themselves with a spare hour or two, day passes are available.
7. Stowe Cinema — Stowe
Catch a flick at this little three-plex in the heart of it all that features the latest movies (and the popcorn is super).
8. Vermont Ski and Snowboard Museum— Stowe
Got eager skiers and boarders? This museum houses a collection of ski memorabilia that chronicles the evolution of the sport. It’s opens Thursdays through Sundays.
Winter Activities in Stowe for Kids (Including Skiing)
9. Skiing at Stowe Mountain Resort — Stowe
Kids can learn downhill skiing at Stowe Mountain Resort. Friendly instructors are at the ready for group or private skiing lessons, but call ahead in the heart of the winter season to make sure your little shredder has a slot. Young kids can start on the Spruce Peak side, while older ones can tackle the Mt. Mansfield blues and greens. Don’t own skis? Check out Pinnacle Ski & Sports, a rental shop that will bring the skis to your hotel and pick them up when you’re finished.
10. Cross Country Skiing at Von Trapp Family Lodge & Resort’s Nordic Center — Stowe
Learn to cross country ski at the US’s first Nordic center at the Von Trapp Family Lodge, of The Sound of Music fame. There are 37 miles of groomed trails, lessons, and a spot on-site to warm up by the fire with hot chocolate, soup, and snacks.
11. Sleigh Ride at Von Trapp Family Lodge & Resort — Stowe
11. Bundle up and go for a traditional sleigh ride on the Von Trapp property! Different-sized carriages allow for a couples’ ride or a journey with the whole family. Sleigh rides run Wednesdays, Saturdays, and Sundays through March 31.
12. Snowshoe Sugar Maple Tour at Von Trapp Family Lodge & Resort — Stowe
Did you know that Vermont makes half the maple syrup in all of the US? If you’re curious how it is made, book a one-mile snowshoe hike into the Von Trapp Family Lodge & Resort’s sugarbush. Learn about syrup making, from collecting sap to the boiling process. Dress appropriately for cold weather and uneven terrain. Kids 5 and under are free.
Outdoor Activities in Stowe for the Rest of the Year
13. Gondola SkyRide — Mt. Mansfield
Take the gondola up to the top of Mt. Mansfield for incredible views. On a clear day, you can even see Montreal! Grab a bite at Cliff House or The Waffle, both open mid June through mid October.
14. ArborTrek Canopy Adventures — Jeffersonville
Ever wonder what it would feel like to fly through the trees like Tarzan? Zip line more than a mile through the treetops from spring to fall with ArborTrek Canopy Adventures. Booking in advance is strongly suggested. Keep in mind that there are height and weight requirements, so call or check the website before booking.
15. Stowe Golf Park — Stowe
Hit “the links” at Stowe Golf Park from April through October. This is a beautifully landscaped and contoured miniature golf course, right on the main drag in town. A hole in one earns a free round, but kids under 5 are always free.
16. Foster’s Swimming Hole — Stowe
This abundance of natural pools is one of Vermont’s most spectacular resources. Take a leap or skip rocks at Foster’s Swimming Hole, a shady swimming spot with emerald-green water. Fed by Mt. Mansfield’s cool springs, this is a favorite spot amongst locals. Note: No diving is allowed!
17. Bingham Falls — Smugglers’ Notch
For nature lovers, it doesn’t get much better than this 25-foot splendor of waterfall magic near Smugglers’ Notch—referred to as “the Notch” by locals. Plan on 15 minutes of hiking to reach the Falls with older kids; younger ones will need closer to 20 to 25 minutes.
18. Memorial Park — Stowe
Located behind Stowe Elementary School, Memorial Park is a central location for many recreational activities. The park includes several amenities like basketball and tennis courts, baseball and softball fields, and the fantastic Stowe Community Playground.
19. Paddling — Stowe
Several lakes and rivers in the area are a flat-water dream for paddling. For rentals, check out Umiak Outdoor Outfitters. Older kids and teens might enjoy stand-up paddleboarding at the Waterbury Reservoir, which also has a day-use beach that’s perfect for swimming. Lake Elmore also has beach access and campgrounds nearby.
Not-to-Miss Events with Kids in Stowe
20. Hot Air Balloon Festival, June — Stowe
See soaring colors—and maybe take a ride yourselves—at the Hot Air Balloon Festival, typically held the last weekend of June. Kids will enjoy playing at the “children’s corner” activity area.
21. Stowe Foliage Arts Festival, October — Stowe
Browse crafts from over 150 local artists at this annual festival. Enjoy live demonstrations and music along with seasonal food, too.
22. Stowe Winter Carnival, January — Stowe
Celebrate all things winter during this annual festival. Watching artists chip and saw away at the ice-carving competition is a highlight for kids!
Easy Day Trips From Stowe with Kids
23. Ben & Jerry’s Factory — Waterbury
Located in Waterbury as you drive to or from Stowe, this is the home of the famous ice cream company and the best place to sample some freshly made Chunky Monkey or Cherry Garcia.
24. Smugglers’ Notch State Park — Jeffersonville
Activities such as maple sapping are popular at this state park in the Green Mountains. Lined with 1,000-foot cliffs, the winding road is closed in winter. In the early days, only a footpath and a trail for horses existed here!
Best Stowe, Vermont Restaurants for Kids (That Parents Will Enjoy, Too!)
25. The Bagel — Stowe
Grab an easy breakfast at this popular spot, which has 20 varieties of bagels to please even the pickiest eater. The blueberry bagels, egg sandwiches, and coffee are especially delicious.
26. Piecasso Family Pizzeria — Stowe
Enjoy a slice and play some arcade games at this centrally located pizza spot, good for a sit-down or takeout meal. A special kids menu boasts entrees as low as $6.
27. Harrison’s Restaurant — Stowe
The local flavor at Harrison’s, run by a mother and son, is not to be missed. The big tables will fit large families comfortably. Even the kids menu’s cheeseburger is sourced from a neighbor farm, Boyden’s.
28. Lake Champlain Chocolates — Stowe Village
Indulge at this sweet spot, where chocolate-dipping demonstrations happen most days around 2pm. There’s also a fun hot chocolate and ice cream bar. You can even sign up for a family chocolate-making workshop! The Stowe mural on the side of the building makes for a great photo op.
Best Family-Friendly Hotels in Stowe, Vermont
29. Lodge at Spruce Peak — Stowe
If you want ski-in, ski-out ease, Lodge at Spruce Peak is where it’s at. With ski valets to handle your gear, a soaring lobby with cozy fireplace nooks, and an indoor and outdoor pool, this is truly a luxurious stay—right at the base of the ski hills. Consider a suite complete with full kitchen for ease of meals with kids.
30. Cady Hill Lodge — Stowe
Go simple by staying in this quaint, family-friendly motel. The Cady Hill Lodge, formerly known as the Golden Eagle, has indoor and outdoor pools, a game room, and pet-friendly rooms.
31. Topnotch Resort — Stowe
Rooms, suites, and even full resort homes are available at Topnotch Resort. The indoor and outdoor pools and Jacuzzi are open year-round, and Topnotch’s Equestrian Center offers horseback riding. For chilly evenings, s’mores kits are available to enjoy around the outdoor fire pit. In summer, pickleball and tennis lessons are popular. Be sure to get a massage at the on-site spa!
32. Meadowstone Manor — Stowe
With room for all the aunts, uncles, cousins, and grandparents, Meadowstone Manor—set on 30 acres—is perfect for multigenerational travel. This crown jewel nestled against the Green Mountains has 14 bedrooms, 16 bathrooms, two tennis courts, pickleball, a full kitchen, and a private chef.
33. Smugglers’ Notch Resort — Jeffersonville
Located just on the other side of the mountain from Stowe, Smugglers’ Notch has one of the best ski schools for children inn the Northeast. It made our list because it also boasts many different-sized condos that include kitchens and ski-equipment storage rooms. For those hard-to-please teens there’s The Alley, a teen hangout space with video games and other activities.
Stowe, Vermont with Kids FAQ
Q: Is Stowe, Vermont good for families?
A: Yes! Stowe offers a variety of outdoor activities like skiing, hiking, and swimming that are great for families.
Q: How many days do you need in Stowe with kids?
A: Three to four days allows families to enjoy a variety of activities without feeling rushed.
Q: Is Stowe expensive for families?
A: Skiing and lodging is definitely expensive in Stowe! Families can find more affordable lodging in nearby towns like Waterbury and Montpelier, and can save money by doing free activities like hiking the Stowe Recreation Path.
Q: What age kids is Stowe best for?
A: Kids ages 5 and up can best take advantage of all Stowe has to offer, like skiing, zip lining, and hiking.
Q: Can you visit Stowe without skiing?
A: Yes! Stowe offers plenty of other fun activities all year long, from hiking and swimming to snowshoeing and horse-drawn sleigh rides.
Q: What is the best time of year to visit Stowe with kids?
A: That depends on what you’re looking for! Winter is great for skiing and snow sports, spring is maple sugaring season, summer is best for hiking and swimming, and fall offers mild weather and gorgeous foliage.
Q: Is Stowe fun in winter for kids who don’t ski?
A: Yes! There are plenty of things to do in winter for kids who don’t ski, like horse-drawn sleigh rides, snowshoeing, sledding, and ice skating.
Additional reporting by Kate Gillan
