Stowe, Vermont, a picturesque haven nestled in the Green Mountains, beckons with its stunning landscapes, charming villages, and world-class skiing. Planning a trip to this idyllic location shouldn't be stressful, and a crucial part of a smooth journey is choosing the right airport. This guide unveils the nearest airports to Stowe, offering insights to help you plan your stress-free Vermont adventure.
What are the closest airports to Stowe, Vermont?
Several airports serve as gateways to Stowe, each offering different advantages depending on your priorities:
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Burlington International Airport (BTV): This is generally considered the most convenient major airport for Stowe. Located approximately 70 miles (1.5-2 hour drive) from Stowe, BTV offers numerous flight options from major cities across the US and Canada, often providing more competitive fares and flight schedules.
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Plattsburgh International Airport (PBG): Situated about 60 miles (approximately 1-1.5 hour drive) from Stowe in upstate New York, PBG is a smaller airport, but it can offer more affordable flights and potentially shorter lines, particularly during less busy travel seasons. Consider this option if you're looking for a quieter airport experience.
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Montpelier-Barre Airport (MPV): This is the closest airport to Stowe geographically, situated roughly 30 miles away (approximately 45-minute drive). However, MPV is a much smaller airport with limited flight options and typically higher fares. It's a viable choice only if you find a direct flight that works well for your schedule and budget.
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Lebanon Municipal Airport (LEB): Located in New Hampshire, about 60 miles from Stowe (approximately 1.5 hour drive), this smaller airport serves as another alternative, especially if you’re flying from smaller regional cities or have flexible travel dates.
What is the easiest way to get from the airport to Stowe?
Once you land at your chosen airport, several transportation options await:
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Rental Car: The most popular choice, offering flexibility and convenience to explore the surrounding areas at your own pace. Remember to account for potential winter driving conditions if you’re traveling during ski season.
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Ride-Sharing Services: Uber and Lyft are available at BTV and PBG, providing a convenient and relatively affordable alternative, especially for shorter distances. Availability might be limited at the smaller airports, MPV and LEB.
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Shuttle Services: Several shuttle services operate between the larger airports (BTV and PBG) and Stowe. Pre-booking is highly recommended, especially during peak seasons.
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Taxi Services: Taxis are also an option, though they’re typically more expensive than ride-sharing services or shuttles.
Which airport is cheapest to fly into?
The cheapest airport to fly into largely depends on your origin city, the time of year, and your booking flexibility. Generally, smaller airports like PBG and LEB can offer lower fares, but this isn’t always guaranteed. It's crucial to compare prices across all airports using flight comparison websites to find the best deal for your specific travel dates.
Which airport is best for a family?
For families, the convenience of BTV often outweighs the potential cost savings of smaller airports. BTV offers a wider range of flights and amenities, making the journey smoother for families with children and luggage. The larger size also tends to mean more options for ground transportation.
How far is Stowe from each of the airports?
We've addressed the approximate distances in the section detailing the closest airports to Stowe, but always double-check driving times using a GPS app or online mapping service before your trip, accounting for potential traffic or road closures.
What is the best time of year to visit Stowe?
Stowe's beauty shines year-round. Summer offers hiking, biking, and water activities, while fall brings vibrant foliage. Winter is ideal for skiing and snowboarding on the renowned Stowe Mountain Resort. Spring reveals the gentle awakening of nature. Your preferred airport choice might influence your decision depending on the time of year, considering potential road conditions and airline schedules.
By carefully considering your budget, travel style, and preferred mode of transportation, you can select the perfect airport for a truly stress-free Stowe getaway. Remember to always compare flight and transportation prices well in advance to secure the best deals and ensure a smooth journey to your Vermont adventure.
