Tips for Planning A Holiday Family Vacation to Stowe
November 19, 2018 by GO STOWE
The holidays are a magical time of year. This is especially true in Stowe, Vermont, with winter festivities and family-friendly activities that create a classic New England experience. If you’re traveling to Stowe for the holidays you’re in for a real treat. Stowe’s activities, dining and lodging options will create an experience you and your family will remember forever and (hopefully) seek to relive again soon. Read on for tips for planning your next family adventure in Stowe, Vermont this holiday season.
Planning Your Trip
Book early for the best deals on lodging all season long. On the whole you’ll find more favorable rates on midweek stays. If you have flexibility in your schedule, you’ll save on lodging when you extend your weekend and stay extra nights during the midweek (Sunday through Thursday) – not to mention the trails to yourself! Some lodging properties may offer their own specials. With a variety of options from full-service resorts and motor inns, to family-sized vacation rentals nestled in the mountains, Stowe hotels will match your getaway style and your budget. Browse availability online, or call to speak with a local expert who can help plan your stay.
Fuel Up For Fun
Once you arrive to town and settle into your hotel, you’ll want to fuel up for a fun day ahead. There are plenty of family-friendly restaurants in Stowe. Many offer a children’s menu, accommodate outdoor enthusiasts and welcome casual attire for active families. Sushi Yoshi features hibachi and a game room along with an extensive assortment of sushi. For Vermont comfort food, The Bench has you covered. Looking for a bite after a wintry walk on the Rec Path? Duck into Piecasso Pizzeria & Lounge for a slice of heavenly pizza pie! Piecasso offers Italian fare in a lively setting. You’ll find delicious kid-pleasing options like pizza and pasta. Shopping and strolling down Main Street? Stop by Café on Main for lunch. Their soup and hot apple cider will warm you from within!
Get Out And Play!
Stowe and outdoor fun go hand-in-hand. This is especially true for families. If you’re traveling when there’s snow – embrace it! Early season skiing is unparalleled at Stowe Mountain Resort, the premier resort in the northeast. There are plenty of options for non-skiers as well. Rent snowshoes and explore the Rec Path. Snowmobiling and dogsledding are other fun winter activities. Take a leisurely drive to Smugglers’ Notch for a zip line adventure at ArborTrek Canopy Adventures. The holidays are the perfect time for a stage performances. Catch “The Ultimate Christmas Show” at Spruce Peak Performing Arts Center, and “Every Christmas Story Ever Told (And Then Some!)” by Lamoille County Players.
The holidays are also a time of year for seasonal events like Traditional Christmas in Stowe featuring photos with santa, parade, holiday cookie decorating, caroling and more. Helen Day Art Center is hosting December Family Day, an afternoon full of snacks and seasonal art activities, games, dreidels, gingerbread house decorating in conjunction with the Festival of Trees. There are other seasonal activities like tree lightings, handmade candy cane demonstrations, ice skating at Spruce Peak, skating with Santa and a family night public skate at Stowe Arena. Stowe Community will host its annual Christmas Fair. If you’re here for New Year’s Eve, don’t miss the Torchlight and Fireworks Show at Stowe Mountain Resort!
Traveling to Stowe Safely in Winter
Plan your winter travel in advance. Stowe, Vermont is easily reached by car from major northeast cities in the United States. Travelers from Boston and Hartford can get to Stowe in about 3.5 hours. Stowe is a scenic 45-minute drive from Burlington International Airport (BTV), a full-service international airport located in the Burlington, Vermont area. Several ground transportation options are available to get to Stowe from the airport, as well as Waterbury where train and bus services are available approximately 15 minutes from the Stowe village. When snowflakes are falling, it doesn’t hurt to be extra cautious on the road. Travel with snow tires if possible, though many of Stowe’s lodges, restaurants, stores and activities are accessible in snowy conditions (kudos to the local road crews who do a great job plowing). Safety Tip: Drive with ample space between the car in front of you. Also watch for pedestrians crossing on Main Street in the historic Village.
Here’s to making new family memories in Stowe this holiday season!