Things To Do
Children's Activities
Stowe is a playground for families, where children can explore, learn and play in the heart of Vermont’s natural beauty. From fun-filled afternoons at the Stowe Recreation Path to adventurous outings like mountain biking, kayaking and even zip-lining, there's no shortage of activities to keep little ones entertained. The town is also home to kid-friendly attractions like covered bridges and Moss Glen Falls, offering a mix of outdoor fun and opportunities for exploration.
Get Outside As a Family
Biking
Stowe is home to an extensive trail network of mountain biking trails, including some accessible to those with young kids. Hit the trails or enjoy a scenic ride on the Stowe Recreation Path as a family. Bike rentals are available at multiple locations throughout town.
Covered bridges
These historic structures are a classic, New England staple and Vermont is home to over 100 of them.
Dog Sledding
More magical than words could describe, dog sledding is a fun, unique opportunity for families and an interactive way to experience the Vermont wilderness. There are a couple of options for dog sledding in the winter, but Eden Ethical Dogsledding offers tours year-round with dog sledding carts in the spring, summer and fall.
Fishing
A year-round activity in Stowe, dip your toes into fishing in the spring, summer and fall or give ice fishing a try in the winter months. If you’re looking for a guide to the best local spots, Stowe is home to a number of experienced fishing instructors.
Hiking
Hiking is one of the most popular ways to explore the beautiful scenery in Stowe. There are many shorter hiking trails in the area that are accessible to families with children of all ages.
Paddling
Explore Vermont’s breathtaking landscape from a canoe, kayak or stand up paddle board during the warmer months. Rentals and guided tours are available through Umiak Outdoor Outfitters and Vermont Canoe and Kayak.
Stowe Golf Park
A local favorite, this 18-hole putting course is great for family entertainment and a little friendly competition. Located off the Stowe Recreation Path, the Stowe Golf Park is open April through October.
Stowe Mountain Resort
During the winter season, there is lots of family fun to be had up at the mountain. New to the slopes? The Stowe Mountain Resort Ski and Ride School offers lessons for all ages and abilities. If you’re visiting during the summer or fall, be sure to enjoy Mt. Mansfield on either the Gondola SkyRide or Auto Toll Road.
von Trapp Family Lodge & Resort
Families can enjoy many of the unique offerings at the von Trapp Family Lodge & Resort, including their farm tours, sleigh rides and carriage rides.
Waterfalls
There are two prominent waterfalls in the area, including the tallest waterfall in Vermont. Both trails are less than one-mile in distance, very manageable for families and lead to some of the most breathtaking views.
Kid-Friendly Hikes
Hiking is one of the most popular ways to enjoy the stunning scenery in Stowe and it is a great activity for families. There are many easy trails in Stowe that cater to kids of all ages and more moderate trails for older or more experienced children. Obviously, you know your family best so choose trails that cater to their ability and stamina. These trails are among the easiest you’ll find, offering gentle terrain and shorter distances perfect for all ages.
Moss Glen Falls (0.6-mile)
This is a short, easy hike to a spectacular waterfall, the tallest waterfall in Vermont, Moss Glen Falls. This is a great option for families and anyone who is looking for easier terrain.
Bingham Falls (0.5-mile)
While the descent to the waterfall is considered more moderate, the short, easy nature of the hike to Bingham Falls makes it perfect for families with children of all ages.
Sunset Rock (1 mile)
Walking distance from Main Street, this one mile hike is a great option for families that leads to a scenic overlook of the downtown area and the upper overlook with spectacular views of Mount Mansfield.
Kirchner Woods (2.5 miles)
Kirchner Woods is a short, easy hike is perfect for kids as it should take less than one hour to complete. The multi-use trail system is shaded by magnificent sugar maple trees, making it the perfect destination for leaf-peeping during the fall.
Wiessner Woods (2.8 miles)
A forested trail complex, Wiessner Woods is an easy woods walk, which features casual, relatively-flat trails for hiking, snowshoeing and cross-country skiing.
Stowe Recreation Path (5.3 miles)
Great for users of all ages and abilities, the Stowe Recreation Path is a paved, public path that features an accessible grade and is great for families looking to explore. There are several parking areas and access points if you wish to explore smaller sections of the trail at a time.
Indoor Activities
Ben & Jerry’s Factory
A true Vermont staple and family favorite, stop by and take a tour of the factory before indulging in your favorite flavors. Be sure to stop by the Flavor Graveyard to pay your respects to their Dearly De-pinted flavors from the past.
Cold Hollow Cider Mill
A fun stop for families to explore along the scenic Route 100, Cold Hollow is the go-to place for fresh apple cider and delicious cider donuts. In addition to sampling fresh cider, kids can view the process of how cider is made using a traditional 1920s rack and press.
Once Upon a Time Toys
Whatever your age, you will find something fun or fanciful that will bring a smile to your face at this Stowe toy shop. Pop inside this local favorite located right off Main Street for some fun finds as a family.
Stowe Bowl
This boutique bowling alley is not only a great activity for kids and adults alike but it also has delicious food and a full bar. Experience a night of family fun enjoying the good old family sport that everybody knows and loves.
Stowe Free Library
A great place for families to visit, the Helen Day Memorial Library and Art Center is a historic building in Stowe that was built in 1863 as the Stowe Village School. The building is now home to The Current, an art gallery and education center, and the Stowe Free Library.
Vermont Ski and Snowboard Museum
Located in the old Town Hall building in the heart of Stowe village, the Vermont Ski and Snowboard Museum is always a fun stop for families with children of all ages. Explore all of the exhibits and artifacts from one of Vermont's greatest past times.
