An outdoor adventurist playground that provides adrenaline-filled activities all year round. Snowy markets, glistening ice rinks, and an abundance of powder-filled mountains to spend your days whizzing down the slopes during winter.
The magical thing about Stowe Vermont is that it’s transformed during the warmer months. There are beautiful autumnal trees, incredible hikes and swimming lakes in the summer, and dazzling flower gardens to explore in the spring.
With all these exciting activities, knowing where to stay in Stowe is no easy task and that’s what I’m here for. I’ve hand-selected the best places to stay in Stowe Vermont no matter your budget or travel style.
So without further ado, let’s get this show on the road.
The Broke Backpacker is supported by you. Clicking through our links may earn us a small affiliate commission, and that's what allows us to keep producing free content 🙂 Learn more.
So you’re travelling to the USA and heading to Stowe. This beautiful place has so much to offer all year round from crisp slopes in the winter to stunning hikes in the summer. Stowe offers something for all types of travellers and in this guide, I’m going to share the best neighbourhoods and places to stay.
If you’re short on time I’ve done you a solid and short-listed my top recommendations for Stowe hotels and Airbnbs for you.
The Little River Inn | Best Budget Accommodation in Stowe
The owners Phill and Kim go above and beyond to make your stay one to remember. You’re greeted by warm, comfortable rooms with small touches to make you feel right at home. The location couldn’t be better, just a short walk from Stowe Village with heaps of cafes and restaurants serving excellent food.
There is a delicious breakfast served every day which is included in the price. Take a dip in the outdoor hot tub or enjoy reading a book in the shared lounge, kept warm by the fireplace after a day on the slopes.
Sun & Ski Inn and Suites | Best Hotel in Stowe
This peaceful mountain retreat is the ideal place to perch up in Stowe village. The rooms are simple and comfy providing the perfect place to rest after a busy day of exploring. You’re close to town just a short walk from shops and restaurants.
Relax in front of the log burners on those snowy days, and enjoy a dip in the glass-enclosed swimming pool and hot tub. If you’re looking for a relaxing stay this is one of the best Stowe hotels.
Penthouse Studio with Mt Views | Best Airbnb in Stowe
This beautiful mountainside penthouse studio is located in the heart of Stowe Mountain Ski Resort. Its 5th-floor location along with large cathedral windows gives you some of the best mountain views in the neighbourhood.
You will also have access to a beautiful heated outdoor pool, outdoor hot tub, spa and ice skating rink.
Stowe Village
Stowe Village is the perfect place for those who want to be amongst the hustle and bustle of Stowe’s galleries, restaurants, and bars but don’t mind being a short distance away from the slopes.
Mountain Road
Nicknamed the connector between the two popular areas of Mount Mansfield and Stowe Village, Mountain Road is the perfect location for those who want a mixture of outdoor activities and also being close to the main shops and restaurants.
Lower Village
Lower Village is one of the quieter areas in Stowe, making it a good choice when you’re deciding where to stay in Stowe with kids.
Mount Mansfield (Ski Area)
Mt. Mansfield, also known as Stowe’s Ski area, is home to the highest mountain in Vermont which stretches across three peaks. This makes it no surprise that it is a haven for skiers and snowboarders with a variety of rich terrain to spend your days gliding around the slopes.
Stowe is home to some of the best mountain landscapes in Vermont, so it’s no surprise it is made it onto your New England road trip itinerary. It has plenty of activities to do when it isn’t snowing, from hiking, wild swimming, mountain biking, and golfing.
The town is relatively quiet but does have a few pockets of hustle and bustle. This includes the most populated area, central Stowe village. This is where you will be able to find most shops, restaurants, and cafes, along with being just a short distance from the mountains and its ski slopes.
Just south of Stowe Village is the neighbourhood of Lower Village. It’s a short walk from the main attractions but still has a sense of peace and tranquillity making it perfect for families.
If you’re heading to Stowe for its outdoor activities then Mount Mansfield is undoubtedly the best area to stay. It has direct access to the ski slopes in the winter months, and plenty of hiking and mountain biking trails to explore in the summer months.
Lastly, we have something for those looking for a mixture of outdoor adventure while being close to the shops and restaurants. Mountain Road has a mix of it all. Nicknamed ‘the connector’ between the two popular areas of Mount Mansfield and Stowe Village, Mountain Road is perfect for those who want to explore the outdoors, as well as being close to the town centre.
Stowe’s Four Best Neighborhoods to Stay in
Check out the top 4 places to stay in Stowe that offer something for everyone.
1. Stowe Village – Where to Stay in Stowe for Your First Time
Stowe Village is the perfect place to stop in on your East Coast road trip for those who want to be amongst the hustle and bustle of galleries, restaurants, and bars, but don’t mind being a short distance away from the slopes.
Despite not being as primely located to the area’s mountain range, Stowe Village has transport links for those travelling up to the ski lifts. Doorstep skiing can be expensive, but this location gives you all the access you need without the hefty price tag.
The best bit – Stowe Village isn’t short on accommodation options. There are plenty of lodges, apartments and hotels within walking distance of the centre.
The Little River Inn | Best Budget Accommodation in Stowe Village
From the outside, this place may not seem like much but the little river inn packs a punch. Once you’re inside you’re greeted by warm, comfortable rooms with small touches to make you feel at home.
Relax in the outdoor hot tub, enjoy reading a book or playing a board game in the shared lounge, kept warm by the fireplace after a day on the slopes.
The owners Phill and Kim go above and beyond to make your stay one to remember, a delicious breakfast is served every day which is included in the price. You’re in a perfect location 1km from Stowe Village making it easy and convenient to head into town, sometimes the road can be noisy but a good pair of earplugs will do the trick.
Sun & Ski Inn and Suites | Best Hotel in Stowe Village
Best described as a peaceful mountain retreat, this inn is ideally located in quaint Stowe Village. The Stowe Hotel has comfy rooms, perfect for relaxing after a busy day exploring. You can also enjoy a swim in the glass-enclosed swimming pool and a dip in the hot tub.
With log burners to keep you warm throughout the snowy days and friendly staff to lead you to the best parts of town, Sun & Ski Inn is the perfect accommodation if you’re travelling as a couple.
Orion’s Retreat | Best Airbnb in Stowe Village
Located in the heart of Stowe Village, this boutique bed and breakfast in Vermont offers top-class facilities at affordable prices. Equipped with a warm and cosy interior, with a sizzling log burner, it is the perfect place to unwind after a long day of exploring. Its central location means that you are in walking distance to the village’s great selection of restaurants and shops.
Things to See and Do in Stowe Village
- Play tennis at Stowe Parks and Recreation Department
- Observe contemporary art at The Current
- Hike to Sunset Rock
- Visit the Vermont Ski and Snowboard Museum
- Wander the Giles W. Dewey Memorial Bridge
We’ve tested countless backpacks over the years, but there’s one that has always been the best and remains the best buy for adventurers: the broke backpacker-approved Osprey Aether and Ariel series.
Want more deetz on why these packs are so damn perfect? Then read our comprehensive review for the inside scoop!
View on Osprey View on REI2. Mountain Road – Best Place to Stay in Stowe on a Budget
Nicknamed ‘the connector’ between the two popular areas of Mount Mansfield and Stowe Village, Mountain Road is the perfect location for those who want to enjoy the outdoors as well as central town amenities.
Not only is Mountain Road a short distance away from the popular ski area, but it also has plenty to explore in the area itself – from quaint coffee shops, cosy restaurants, and multiple retail shops.
It is also home to a large selection of accommodation options, including plenty of budget-friendly options for those who want to visit the bustling resort town but don’t want to break the bank.
Field Guide Lodge | Best Lodge in Mountain Road
Field guide lodges offer a warm and welcoming place for guests, where you can enjoy the outdoors whilst being close enough to town to walk to shops or restaurants. The rooms are comfortable with a large double bed and a cosy living room with a fireplace.
They have great shared spaces including a games room, seasonal outdoor swimming pool and hot tub. A bangin’ breakfast is served every day including homemade croissants, the perfect fuel before a day on the slopes.
Meadow Lane Farm House | Best Airbnb in Mountain Road
This beautifully decorated apartment is located inside a revamped 1890s farmhouse and is home to spectacular mountain views. A perfect location for those who love the outdoors, the chalet is in the heart of nature along with only being 8 minutes away from the famous Stowe Mountain Resort.
Stowe’s Lille Hus | Best Budget Accommodation in Mountain Road
A budget-friendly accommodation with high-end details, this cosy apartment provides an ideally located place to stay, at a steal of a price. You will love the large outdoor porch that is nestled amongst the gorgeous mountain trees.
Things to See and Do in Mountain Road
- Wander along the Brookdale Bridge
- Explore the Wiessner Woods
- Visit Percy Farm Corn Maze
- Wander the stalls at Stowe Farmers’ Market
- Go mountain biking at Cady Hill Forest
- Take a dip at the Swimming Hole.
3. Lower Village – Best Neighborhood in Stowe for Families to Stay In
Lower Village is one of the quieter areas in Stowe, making it ideal for families travelling with kids. Just a few minutes away from central Stowe Village, the area has the best of both worlds. Enjoy the hustle and bustle of the town, as well as the peace and quiet of Stowe’s mountains.
Lower Village is also great for larger groups with plenty of lodges and hotels equipped to fit groups of all different sizes. We have selected 3 of our favourite places to stay in this area of Stowe, to help you narrow down the best choices for you.
Commodores Inn | Best Hotel in Lower Village
This Stowe hotel offers is clean, cosy and family-friendly. Not only does the hotel provide cleanly kept, comfortable and budget-friendly rooms, but it is also within walking distance from endless opportunities for outdoor and indoor recreation.
Goldilocks Cabin | Best Cabin in Lower Village
Embrace the peaceful outdoors with this beautiful Cabin in Vermont tucked away in the woods. Located just outside of Stowe Village, enjoy the remoteness whilst being close to town with shops and restaurants nearby.
The rooms are clean and comfortable with soft linen providing the perfect place to rest after a busy day hitting the slopes. You have a cosy living room with a log-burning fire and a fully equipped kitchen.
Stowasis | Best Airbnb in Lower Village
This quiet and cosy studio is tucked away in nature by Gold Brook River, making it perfect for a romantic getaway. Rooms have private balconies where you can enjoy spectacular views of the surrounding mountains. Located just two miles from both Central Village and Stowe Mountain Resort, a stay here will keep you close to the action.
Things to See and Do in Lower Village
- Taste local cider at Cold Hollow Cider Mill
- Wander Gold Brook Covered Bridge
- Visit Little River Hot Glass Studio
- Hike through the Pinnacle Meadows
- Visit the museum of Stowe Historical Society
- Experience the views at Sunset Rock
A new country, a new contract, a new piece of plastic – booooring. Instead, buy an eSIM!
Jetpac eSIMs work just like an app: you download it, pick your plan, and BOOM! You’re connected the minute you land. It’s that easy.
Read about how e-Sims work or click below to see one of the top eSIM providers on the market and ditch the plastic.
Grab an eSIM!4. Mount Mansfield (Ski Area) – Where to Stay in Stowe for Adventure Lovers
Some of the best things to do in Stowe can be found at Mt. Mansfield if you’re an adrenaline junkie. Mt. Mansfield is the best Stowe area for skiing and is home to the highest mountain in Vermont which stretches across three peaks. It’s no surprise that it is a haven for skiers and snowboarders, with a variety of rich terrain to spend your days gliding around the slopes.
Mt. Mansfield is inevitably most well-known for its skiing however, there is still plenty to do in the summer months, grab your hiking boots and get off the beaten track to some of the best mountain biking trails and swimming in lakes,
The cute neighbourhood has lots of character and is home to an array of accommodation options, some of which provide doorstep access to the mountains.
Wyndham Smugglers Notch | Best Budget Accommodation in Mt Mansfield
The Wyndham Smugglers is one of the best budget Stowe hotels. Enjoy mountain views from your private balcony, at a budget-friendly price.
You can pretty much roll out of bed and you’ll be on the slopes with incredible skiing on your doorstep. There is an outdoor swimming pool as well as a restaurant and a bar on site. Due to the great location and even better price, this is the ideal spot to perch up during Ski season.
The Lodge at Spruce Peak | Best Hotel in Mt Mansfield
Home to Stowe’s only doorstep skiing, the luxury resort Lodge at Spruce Peak, provides breathtaking views along with an 18-hole golf course, an outdoor heated pool and two restaurants.
The lodge at Spruce Peak has ski-in, and ski-out access to the slopes during the ski season and plenty of hiking trails in the warmer weather. It’s not a surprise it’s one of the finest Stowe hotels.
Penthouse Studio Village Mt Views | Best Airbnb in Mt Mansfield
Nestled in the heart of Spruce Peak this spectacular mountainside apartment provides some of the best mountain views in the Stowe area. Not only is this the ideal spot during ski season but in the warmer months you have incredible hikes, and mountain bike trails on your doorstep.
Located within walking distance to the slopes and with ski-in, and ski-out convenience, you have immediate access to some of the best skiing in the region. After a bust day exploring, enjoy a swim in the outdoor heated swimming pool and hot tubs or treat yourself to the award-winning spa. There is also a fitness centre with an indoor pool, truly one of the best Airbnbs in the USA.
Things to See and Do in Mount Mansfield
- Go skiing at Stowe Mountain Resort
- Wander through the trees at State Forest
- Go on a hike through Smugglers Notch
- Take in the views at Bingham Falls
- Spend the night under the stars at Smugglers’ Notch State Park Campground
- Get the ultimate picture at Cantilever Rock
Stash your cash safely with this money belt. It will keep your valuables safely concealed, no matter where you go.
It looks exactly like a normal belt except for a SECRET interior pocket perfectly designed to hide a wad of cash, a passport photocopy or anything else you may wish to hide. Never get caught with your pants down again! (Unless you want to…)
Hide Yo’ Money!FAQ about Finding a Place to Stay in Stowe
What To Pack For Stowe
Pants, socks, underwear, soap?! Take it from me, packing for a hostel stay is not always quite as straightforward as it seems. Working out what to bring and what to leave at home is an art I have perfected over many years.
Ear Plugs
Snoring dorm-mates can ruin your nights rest and seriously damage the hostel experience. This is why I always travel with a pack of decent ear plugs.
Hanging Laundry Bag
Trust us, this is an absolute game changer. Super compact, a hanging mesh laundry bag stops your dirty clothes from stinking, you don’t know how much you need one of these… so just get it, thank us later.
Sea To Summit Micro Towel
Hostel towels are scummy and take forever to dry. Microfibre towels dry quickly, are compact, lightweight, and can be used as a blanket or yoga mat if need be.
Monopoly Deal
Forget about Poker! Monopoly Deal is the single best travel card game that we have ever played. Works with 2-5 players and guarantees happy days.
Grayl Geopress Water Bottle
Always travel with a water bottle! They save you money and reduce your plastic footprint on our planet. The Grayl Geopress acts as a purifier AND temperature regulator. Boom!
Check out my definitive Hotel Packing list for even more top packing tips!
Is Stowe Vermont worth visiting?
Yes, Stowe Vermont is 100% worth visiting. If you’re an outdoors lover, Stowe Vermont is a paradise all year round. From some of the best slopes in the world in winter to incredible hikes and sunny days during the summer. Definitely worth a visit.
Which are the best luxury hotels in Stowe Vermont?
The Lodge at Spruce Peak is one of the best luxury hostels in Stowe Vermont. Enjoy breathtaking views along an outdoor heated swimming pool, outdoor hot tub, and award-winning spa and you have direct access to the slopes in the winter months, as well as a pristine golf course.
Are there any cheap places to stay in Stowe Vermont?
You, my friend, have come to the right place. The Little River Inn is a great cheap place to stay in Stowe Vermont without sacrificing comfort or location.
Don’t Forget Travel Insurance for Stowe
Unfortunately, things can go wrong when you least expect it. This is why good travel insurance is essential before you head on your trip to Stowe.
ALWAYS sort out your backpacker insurance before your trip. There’s plenty to choose from in that department, but a good place to start is Safety Wing.
They offer month-to-month payments, no lock-in contracts, and require absolutely no itineraries: that’s the exact kind of insurance long-term travellers and digital nomads need.
SafetyWing is cheap, easy, and admin-free: just sign up lickety-split so you can get back to it!
Click the button below to learn more about SafetyWing’s setup or read our insider review for the full tasty scoop.
Final Thoughts on Where to Stay in Stowe
Once you visit, you will see why so many people love Stowe and have an itching to return. The bustling resort town has a warming vibe that draws people with some of the most spectacular natural landscapes in the state. If you’re still undecided I’ll recap my top picks for you.
If we want to splash out The Lodge at Spruce Peak is my top choice. This place knows how to do luxury with incredible views, an award-winning spa, an outdoor heated swimming pool, outdoor hot tubs and golf course.
The Little River Inn is my pick if you’re travelling budget. In a great location for a decent price, what more could you want?
Now I’ve done my part, it’s over to you Amigo. Get out there, ditch your comfort zone and explore this magical land.
Photo: @amandaadraper
- Check out our ultimate guide backpacking around USA.
- Figured out where you wanna stay? Now it’s time to pick the perfect hostel in USA.
- Or… maybe you want to check out some Airbnbs in Vermont instead.
- Next up you’re gonna need to know all the best places to visit in USA to plan your trip.
- Save yourself hassle and money and get an international sim card for USA.
- Swing by our super epic backpacking packing list to prep for your trip.
Buy Us a Coffee!
A couple of you lovely readers suggested we set up a tip jar for direct support as an alternative to booking through our links. So we created one!
You can now buy The Broke Backpacker a coffee. If you like and use our content to plan your trips, it’s a much appreciated way to show appreciation 🙂
