Echo Lake Inn – Ludlow, Vermont
Attend the Quechee Balloon Festival, Stay in Ludlow!
The Quechee Balloon Festival is one of the most anticipated summer events in Vermont, bringing vibrant color and excitement to the region each Father’s Day weekend. From June 19–21, 2026, visitors can watch dozens of hot air balloons rise above the rolling hills, river valleys, and scenic landscapes that make Quechee, VT a favorite summer destination. Whether you are planning a dedicated festival trip or looking for memorable things to do in Vermont, this weekend event offers an unforgettable experience.
The Quechee Hot Air Balloon Festival features multiple balloon launches throughout the weekend, weather permitting. The most popular viewing opportunities take place at sunrise and during the evening hours when the balloons lift into the soft summer light. Festival guests can also enjoy live music, local food vendors, artisan booths, family-friendly activities, sunrise yoga sessions, e-bike rides, and interactive events throughout the grounds.
One of the festival’s most popular traditions is the evening balloon glow. As dusk settles across the Vermont countryside, tethered balloons illuminate against the darkening sky, creating one of the most photographed moments of the weekend. Visitors seeking an even more memorable experience may reserve a hot air balloon ride, offering sweeping views of the region’s forests, farms, rivers, and mountains.
Lodging Near the Quechee Balloon Festival
While attending the balloon festival Vermont visitors should also explore nearby attractions such as Quechee Gorge, Quechee State Park, and the historic village of Woodstock. These destinations add variety to a weekend itinerary and provide excellent alternatives should weather impact balloon activities.
For travelers seeking comfortable lodging near Quechee, Echo Lake Inn in Ludlow offers a convenient and affordable option. Located within easy driving distance of the festival, this historic Vermont inn combines character, hospitality, and modern comforts. Guests can enjoy individually appointed accommodations, a seasonal outdoor pool, tennis courts, nearby canoe and kayak rentals, and welcoming common areas designed for relaxation.
The inn’s on-site restaurant features refined, locally inspired cuisine, making it easy to enjoy a complete Vermont getaway without extensive travel between activities. When planning your summer mountain weekend in Vermont, Echo Lake Inn provides an ideal home base for exploring the Quechee Balloon Festival and the many attractions throughout the Okemo Valley region.
Road Trip to Beautiful Woodstock, Vermont
Best Things to Do in Woodstock, Vermont for a Getaway
Few destinations capture the character of a classic New England village quite like Woodstock, Vermont. Known for its covered bridges, historic architecture, local shops, and mountain scenery, Woodstock is one of the most popular small towns in Vermont for visitors seeking a memorable weekend escape. Whether you are interested in outdoor recreation, local history, scenic drives, or cultural attractions, there are plenty of things to do in Woodstock, Vermont throughout every season.
A visit often begins in downtown Woodstock, VT, where independent boutiques, bookstores, galleries, cafés, and restaurants line the picturesque village streets. Situated along the Ottauquechee River, the downtown area offers a walkable setting that showcases the charm and character that have made Woodstock a favorite Vermont destination.
Among the most popular Vermont attractions is Billings Farm & Museum, a working dairy farm that highlights the region’s agricultural heritage through exhibits, farm animals, seasonal events, and locally inspired experiences. Nearby, Marsh-Billings-Rockefeller National Historical Park offers visitors an opportunity to explore hiking trails, tour the historic mansion, and learn about conservation efforts that shaped Vermont’s landscape.
Outdoor enthusiasts will find no shortage of things to do near Woodstock, VT. Scenic back roads reveal covered bridges, historic barns, maple syrup farms, and sweeping mountain views. During foliage season, these drives become some of the most photographed routes in New England. Hiking opportunities abound as well, including the popular trail to the summit of Mount Tom.
Quaint Lodging Near Woodstock
After a day spent exploring Woodstock, relax at Echo Lake Inn, a historic boutique hotel in Ludlow, VT, located a short drive away. At our lodging near Woodstock, guests enjoy comfortable accommodations, distinctive guest rooms, and convenient access to both Woodstock and the Okemo Valley. On-site amenities include kayaking, canoeing, paddleboarding, tennis courts, pickleball courts, lawn games, a seasonal pool, and a jacuzzi.
Additional highlights near Woodstock include Sugarbush Farm, where visitors can sample Vermont cheese and maple syrup, Appalachian Trail Adventures for guided outdoor excursions, the Woodstock Farmer’s Market, and the extensive mountain biking trails maintained by the Woodstock Area Mountain Bike Association. Before returning to your accommodations, consider a stop at Quechee Gorge, one of the most impressive natural landmarks in Vermont.
Whether you are planning a weekend getaway or a longer mountain vacation, Woodstock offers a rewarding combination of outdoor adventure, local culture, and timeless New England appeal.
Route 100 Vermont: A Scenic Drive Guide from an Inn on the Byway
Few drives capture the Green Mountain State quite like Route 100 Vermont. Stretching more than 200 miles through mountain towns, farmland, and classic New England villages, it’s one of the most rewarding scenic drives in Vermont, and for guests of Echo Lake Inn in Ludlow, it runs right past the front door.
Our stretch of the byway keeps guests busy without ever straying far. Within a short drive of the inn, you can ride the scenic chairlift at Okemo Mountain in season, cast for trout in the Black River, cool off at Buttermilk Falls, or detour up Route 100A to Plymouth Notch, the remarkably preserved village where Calvin Coolidge was born and first sworn in as president. Come fall, this same road becomes one of the best-known scenic drives in Vermont, with hardwood forests turning red, orange, and gold. For anyone planning a Vermont Route 100 fall foliage trip, Ludlow makes an easy home base for exploring the best of the season.
We offer one of the best places to stay in Vermont, sitting right on Route 100 itself. Our Bed and Breakfast has welcomed travelers since the 1800s, with President Calvin Coolidge and Thomas Edison among the notable names in its guest history, and our location puts many of the southern and central byway’s highlights within easy reach.
What to Expect When You Drive Route 100 Vermont
Vermont Route 100 runs about 216 miles from the Massachusetts state line to Newport in the north, following the Green Mountains for much of the route. It’s often called Vermont’s Main Street, and the Scenic Route 100 Byway also goes by the Skiers Highway, since the corridor links travelers with mountain communities and ski areas across the state. The officially designated Route 100 Scenic Byway covers about 146 miles of southern and central Vermont, including the Okemo Valley around Ludlow. You could drive the full highway in roughly five hours without stopping, but Route 100 Vermont rewards a slower pace, with time for overlooks, villages, local food, and short detours.
What you’ll see changes with the season. Summer brings swimming holes like Buttermilk Falls, where a short half mile trail leads to swimmable pools below the upper and lower cascades. Winter turns the corridor into a natural connector between mountain towns and ski areas. Fall is when Vermont Route 100 fall foliage draws its biggest crowds, though peak color shifts by elevation and weather year to year. Vermont’s foliage season generally runs from mid-September into late October, so anyone planning a Route 100 Vermont fall foliage trip should check current foliage reports and book lodging well ahead of popular October weekends.
A Ludlow Base for Exploring the Byway
Our favorite stops cluster near the inn, which is why we tell guests to treat Ludlow as their base for a scenic drive along Vermont Route 100. Head south about 25 minutes to Weston and you’ll find the original Vermont Country Store, opened in 1946 and still known for classic Vermont foods, candy, gifts, and practical goods.
Head north and turn onto Route 100A for Plymouth Notch, a National Historic Landmark district where Calvin Coolidge was born and where his father administered the presidential oath of office in 1923. The historic Plymouth Cheese Factory, built by Coolidge’s father in 1890, still produces cheese today. Continue north on Route 100A to Bridgewater Corners, and you’ll reach Long Trail Brewing near the junction of Route 100A and U.S. Route 4.
A little planning goes a long way before you set out. For a Vermont Route 100 road trip map, start with Vermont Tourism’s official Scenic Byways map. Check Vermont road conditions before leaving, and confirm seasonal hours for stops like Okemo’s scenic chairlift and the President Calvin Coolidge State Historic Site. Keep your fuel tank topped off before rural stretches, and give yourself more time than the mileage suggests. Among Vermont scenic drives, this one is less about completing a route than about having time to stop when the scenery, a farm stand, or a village catches your attention.
One of the Best Places to Stay in Vermont Is Right on the Byway
After a day on scenic Route 100 Vermont, you’ll want to return to a comfortable stay close by. Our Bed and Breakfast sits along the Route 100 corridor in the Tyson section of Ludlow, so you can make the inn your home base for exploring both north and south. Choose from 20 guest rooms, each with its own character and several with a gas fireplace and Jacuzzi tub, or settle a larger group into one of eight condos. Dinner is available at our on-site restaurant, where the menu features local and sustainably sourced ingredients.
If you want more time outside, follow our river path to Echo Lake and use one of our kayaks, paddleboards, canoes, or rowboats. EV chargers are also available at the inn, a useful amenity for guests tackling longer scenic drives in Vermont. Every stay includes a made-to-order country breakfast, ideal fuel for another morning on Route 100 Vermont. Book your stay today and start planning your fall getaway.
Route 100 Vermont: FAQ
When is peak fall foliage in Vermont?
Vermont’s foliage season generally runs from mid-September into late October, with peak color varying by elevation and region each year. Higher elevations along Route 100 tend to turn first, with color moving into the valleys as the season progresses. Vermont in the fall is one of the most spectacular times to visit.
Where to stay in Vermont for fall foliage?
Ludlow is one of the best places to stay in Vermont for fall foliage, thanks to its location directly on Route 100 and easy access to both the Okemo Valley and Plymouth Notch. A stay right on the byway makes it simple to explore in every direction without long drives between stops.
Where is Ludlow, Vermont?
Ludlow sits in the Okemo Valley within the officially designated Route 100 Scenic Byway, roughly in the southern-central part of the state. It’s home to Okemo Mountain and sits within easy reach of Weston, Plymouth Notch, and Bridgewater Corners.
Where to see fall foliage in Vermont?
Route 100 is one of the state’s most reliable corridors for fall color, running through the Green Mountains and past classic New England villages for over 200 miles. Detours onto Route 100A toward Plymouth Notch add mountain views without straying far from the main byway.
Where does Route 100 start in Vermont?
Vermont Route 100 begins at the Massachusetts state line and runs about 216 miles north to Newport, following the Green Mountains for much of its length. The officially designated Scenic Byway portion covers about 146 miles of the southern and central sections, including the stretch through Ludlow.
The Best Guide to Vermont in the Fall
Why Vermont in the Fall Is Worth the Trip
There is a reason so many people plan their vacations around Vermont in the fall. The air turns crisp, and the hillsides burst into shades of red, orange, and gold. The crunch of leaves underfoot, the smell of woodsmoke drifting from nearby chimneys, and earlier sunsets all signal that autumn has arrived. The foliage may steal the spotlight, but it is only one reason to love this season. Vermont in the fall also means warm apple cider donuts, charming small towns, and scenic back roads that make you forget where you were headed in the first place.
Our corner of Vermont does fall especially well. Route 100 runs right past us, winding through covered bridges and mountain views on its way toward Weston, one of the most charming small towns in Vermont. A short drive away, you will find even more things to do in Woodstock, a beautiful historic town. Scenic drives, mountain hikes, and historic villages all sit within easy reach, making the Ludlow area one of the best places to visit in Vermont during autumn. Whatever you are after, there is no shortage of things to do in Vermont in the fall within a few minutes of Echo Lake Inn.
After a full day of leaf peeping, there is something to be said for coming back to a fire lit in the hearth and a home-cooked breakfast waiting the next morning. That is what awaits at our historic inn on Echo Lake. The hospitality, views, and proximity to the top things to do in Vermont in the fall are exactly why Echo Lake Inn is one of the best places to stay in Vermont for a fall getaway.
Explore Vermont in the Fall Like a Local
Vermont in the fall reaches its peak from late September into October, when brilliant foliage blankets the mountains and weekends become especially popular. Ludlow sits close to many of the best things to do in Vermont in the fall, most within a twenty-minute drive, making it easy to fit more than one destination into a single day.
Here is where we send guests when they ask what to do during their stay:
- Ride a scenic fall foliage train. Seasonal foliage excursions have operated through southern Vermont for years, with routes that have included Chester and the Okemo Valley. Schedules vary year to year, so check the current operating calendar before planning your visit.
- Hike or ride up Okemo Mountain. The Healdville Trail runs about six miles round trip with nearly 2,000 feet of elevation gain, ending at the historic Okemo fire tower with views of the southern Green Mountains and Mount Ascutney. If you would rather skip the climb, Okemo’s Sunburst Six chairlift typically operates on select fall weekends, weather permitting.
- Walk the trail to Buttermilk Falls. This short walk through Okemo State Forest leads to three waterfalls along Branch Brook. The lower falls sit just a short walk from the parking area, while a steeper trail continues to the upper cascades. Wear shoes with good traction, since wet leaves and rocks turn slippery in autumn.
- Take the gondola up Killington Peak. Rising to 4,241 feet, Killington Peak offers one of the highest lift-served viewpoints in the state. During fall, the K-1 Gondola carries visitors above the forest canopy for foliage views across the Green Mountains on a clear day.
- Spend an afternoon in Weston. One of the most charming small towns in Vermont, especially in autumn. Browse the Vermont Country Store, stroll the village green, visit local galleries, or catch a performance at the Weston Theater Company if one is scheduled.
- Visit the Calvin Coolidge State Historic Site. Located in nearby Plymouth Notch, this preserved village is where President Calvin Coolidge was born and sworn into office in 1923. The site runs seasonally through mid-October, making Vermont in October one of the best times to see it with the historic buildings surrounded by peak foliage.
- Stop by Plymouth Artisan Cheese. Established in 1890, this cheesemaker continues the tradition that began during the Coolidge era. Sampling heritage cheddar while learning about the area’s agricultural history makes for one of the more unique things to do in Vermont between Ludlow and Woodstock.
- Watch glassblowing at Simon Pearce. Watching artisans transform molten glass into finished pieces is fascinating any time of year, especially on a cool fall afternoon. Stay for lunch or dinner overlooking the Ottauquechee River and waterfall.
- Grab lunch at Long Trail Brewing. Located in nearby Bridgewater Corners, seasonal beers, hearty pub fare, and outdoor seating over the Ottauquechee River make this a great stop after a morning hike.
Bring a light jacket for cool mornings, comfortable shoes for hiking and village walks, and a little flexibility so you can stop whenever another scenic overlook catches your eye.
Experience One of the Best Places to Stay in Vermont
After a day exploring fall in Vermont, there is nothing quite like returning to Echo Lake Inn. Originally built in the 1840s, our historic inn combines classic New England character with the amenities that make Vermont in the fall even more enjoyable. Every guest room has its own personality, and some feature gas fireplaces or jacuzzi tubs, especially welcome after a cool afternoon outdoors. Before dinner, relax in our pub, challenge the family to a game, or simply enjoy the peaceful setting overlooking Echo Lake.
Mornings begin with a hearty, made-to-order breakfast included with your stay. In the evening, our restaurant showcases seasonal ingredients sourced from Vermont farms whenever possible. Beyond the dining room, guests enjoy lake access with complimentary kayaks, canoes, paddleboards, and tennis and pickleball courts.
Book Your Fall Getaway at Echo Lake Inn
If you are searching for one of the best places to stay in Vermont, Echo Lake Inn puts you minutes from the region’s most popular fall attractions while giving you a warm place to return to at the end of the day. Book your fall getaway at Echo Lake Inn and come experience Vermont in the fall.
Frequently Asked Questions
Where should you stay in Vermont in the fall?
The Ludlow and Plymouth area makes an excellent base, putting Echo Lake Inn within a twenty-minute drive of Okemo Mountain, Killington Peak, Weston, and the Calvin Coolidge State Historic Site.
What is the best time to visit Vermont?
Late September into October is generally considered the best time to visit Vermont, when fall foliage reaches its peak across the Green Mountains.
What is there to do in Vermont in October?
October offers peak foliage viewing, foliage train rides, the Calvin Coolidge State Historic Site before it closes for the season, and small-town stops like Weston and Woodstock.
When is peak fall foliage in Vermont?
Peak fall foliage in the Ludlow area typically arrives in the first two to three weeks of October, though timing shifts slightly each year depending on weather.
Your Summer Guide to Things to Do in Vermont
Best Things to Do in Vermont This Summer Near Ludlow
Summer is one of the best times to experience the Green Mountain State, and many of the top Things to Do in Vermont are located within easy reach of Ludlow. As the mountains shift from ski season to warm-weather recreation, visitors can enjoy scenic hiking trails, sparkling lakes, historic villages, and local events that showcase Vermont’s character. Whether you’re planning a mountain weekend getaway or searching for fun things to do in Vermont with family and friends, the Okemo Valley offers countless opportunities to explore.
Outdoor recreation is at the heart of many things to do in Vermont in summer. Hike the Healdville Trail on Okemo Mountain or explore the trails at Mount Ascutney for sweeping mountain views. Spend a day on Echo Lake, Lake Rescue, or Lake Pauline, where kayaking, paddleboarding, canoeing, and swimming provide a refreshing way to enjoy the season. Camp Plymouth State Park on Echo Lake is a popular destination with a sandy beach and convenient boat rentals.
Beyond outdoor adventure, some of the best places to visit in Vermont are nearby historic communities. Woodstock, located about 30 minutes from Ludlow, offers covered bridges, boutique shopping, local dining, and the Marsh-Billings-Rockefeller National Historical Park. A drive along Route 100 reveals classic Vermont scenery, including rolling farmland, mountain vistas, roadside farm stands, and charming villages.
Stay at a Historic Hotel in Ludlow, VT
Visitors looking for a comfortable home base will appreciate the convenience of staying at a hotel in Ludlow, VT. Our historic property has welcomed guests since 1840 and places many Vermont attractions within easy reach. After a day of sightseeing, guests can relax by Echo Lake, enjoy a cooked-to-order breakfast, or dine at our award-winning restaurant featuring locally sourced ingredients.
Additional places to visit in Vermont include Quechee Gorge, Vermont’s covered bridges, Buttermilk Falls, and Killington Resort’s scenic gondola rides. Summer festivals, farmers markets, outdoor concerts, and farm-to-table experiences add even more opportunities to connect with the region.
The best Things to Do in Vermont often combine iconic attractions with unexpected discoveries. A scenic drive, a quiet lake paddle, or a stop at a local farm stand can become the highlight of a mountain weekend. From outdoor recreation to small-town exploration, summer in Vermont offers memorable experiences at every turn. Book your stay today and start planning your Vermont adventure.