Solo Trip to Vermont: The Beginning of My Becoming

I visited Vermont entirely on my own, and most of my stay was spent couch surfing around the area. Even though it was a simple solo trip, it gave me a really honest sense of what the state feels like day to day.

When I wasn't couch surfing, I stayed one night at The Lodge at Spruce Peak in Stowe, Vermont. This property is definitely on the pricer side, with rooms starting at $400 per night, but it's worth it since the amenities match the cost. Right in the mountains with beautiful views, the lodge offers free internet, room service, a spa / sauna (which was my favorite), ski resort access, zip-lining, golf, a fitness center, and an on-site restaurant. The property has a luxurious resort feel to it that's very nice. I felt very well taken care of, and the staff were extremely attentive. So if you're looking for a place that truly provides everything in one spot, I highly suggest The Lodge at Spruce Peak.

For travelers who prefer something more budget friendly, I highly recommend the DoubleTree by Hilton in Burlington, Vermont. It's a great alternative, the staff are kind, the space is clean and cozy, and they offer free parking, free WiFi, an indoor pool, and an on-site restaurant as well. Rates usually fall around $100 to $120 per night.

During my time in Vermont, I spent most of my time exploring the Burlington area and I found a lot of beautiful spots worth checking out. If you enjoy nature, waterfalls, or short scenic hikes, these places stood out to me the most:

• One waterfall I visited was Honey Hollow Falls in Bolton, Vermont, which is about 22 minutes from Burlington. The trail starts at 14 Honey Hallow Road and is a short 0.6 mile out and back with about 62 feet of elevation gain. It's an easy, very peaceful and the waterfall is beautiful up close—perfect if you want something relaxing without a long hike.

• I also visited Bristol Memorial Park Falls. The trail is around 0.5 miles out and back with about 78 feet of elevation gain. Even though it's quick, the scenery is absolutely worth the stop and the water is so nice. For any hike, I always recommend wearing good gear and bringing bug spray.

• For food and local stops, Burlington has a lot to offer. One coffee shop I really liked was Muddy Waters. They make great coffee, the service is friendly, and the space has a cozy, interesting vibe with live music nights. I ordered the dirty chai.

• Another spot worth checking out is The Café Hot on Church Street. Their bagels are so good and big, with prices ranging from $10-$20. Depending on the season you visit, the lines get really long, but the food and coffee are worth the wait.

• If you're into music, I also stopped by Burlington Records and Pure Pop Records. Both places have a great vinyl selection of rock, hip hop, jazz, and classical music—whatever genre you're into, they have.

• Lastly, Church Street Marketplace itself is a fun area to explore. The entire street is filled with cafes, clothing shops, and little antique stores. It has a cozy but lively energy, and it's easy to spend time wandering around and discovering new things.

In my opinion, Vermont is best suited for travelers who love nature, quiet places, and a slower-paced environment. The state has beautiful mountains, waterfalls, lakes, and endless opportunities for outdoor exploration. If you enjoy antique shops, small cafes, and calm little towns, this is the perfect place to be. My favorite part of the trip was spotting all the cute bugs during my hike. Buttermilk Falls became one of my favorites!

On the other end, Vermont may not be the best destination for travelers looking for a vibrant nightlife, unless you search really hard. They have some underground rock shows here and there and other events, which you can find flyers for around the downtown area. One bar in the area that did catch my eye is The Archives—drinks are very good, prices range from $10 to $20, and they even have a mini arcade area.

The best time to visit is June through August for warmer weather and more outdoor activities.

For more inspiration and insider recommendations, visit our Vermont page.