Every year when I visit Vermont in the fall, there’s one place I never miss — Cold Hollow Cider Mill. This popular stop draws leaf peepers from all over, and it’s easy to see why. Here’s everything you need to know about visiting Cold Hollow Cider Mill and why it’s worth adding to your fall itinerary.

Inside Vermont’s Most Famous Cider Mill

Before I talk about my visit, let’s talk about the history. Cold Hollow Cider Mill started pressing apples in the 1970s, long before it became one of Vermont’s most famous roadside stops.

What began as a small family-run operation has grown into a year-round destination for travelers craving a taste of old-fashioned Vermont.

The mill still uses a traditional rack-and-cloth press to make its fresh cider, and that same hands-on charm is what keeps people coming back decade after decade.

It’s a slice of Vermont history that feels timeless every fall.

My Fall Day at Cold Hollow Cider Mill

Arriving at Cold Hollow Cider Mill

As soon as you arrive at Cold Hollow Cider Mill in Waterbury, Vermont, you’ll notice the parking lot fills quickly, especially on crisp fall weekends.

Thankfully, friendly staff members are outside directing cars to open spots, and there’s plenty of overflow parking behind the building.

Once you’re parked, make your way to the front of the cider mill.

It’s decked out in pumpkins, mums, and hay bales, setting the perfect fall scene.

Shopping for Maple Treats and Vermont Gifts

Inside, the aroma of apples and maple hits you immediately. The main shop is filled with shelves of local Vermont products!

From maple leaf cookies, apple barbecue sauce, maple chocolates, jams, and plenty of pure Vermont maple syrup.

Take your time exploring every corner. Whether you’re hunting for gifts or just want a few treats to bring home, this place is packed with unique finds.

Keep an eye out for Vermont-made crafts like magnets made from real maple leaves!

Oh, and don’t skip the Cold Hollow Cider Mill Apple Cider Donut Pancake Mix.

Pair it with their famous maple syrup, and you’ll have the perfect fall breakfast waiting for you after your trip.

For more fall spots, read 11 Best Fall Activities in Vermont You Can’t Miss (2025 Guide).

Warm Apple Cider

Before you dive into the donuts, start with the cider that made Cold Hollow famous.

Their fresh-pressed apple cider is made on-site using the same traditional rack-and-cloth press they’ve used since the 1970s.

I was actually able to watch the pressing process through large glass windows inside the mill!

The cider is all-natural, made with locally sourced apples, and has no added sugar or preservatives.

You can pour a hot cup from their self-serve station near the counter, and trust me—it’s the best apple cider I’ve ever had.

Famous Apple Cider Donuts

Paired with my hot apple cider are their famous apple cider donuts, a Cold Hollow staple since day one.

The recipe has remained mostly unchanged over the decades, and that’s part of what makes them so special.

Each batch is made fresh daily, using their own cider in the batter to give the donuts that signature tangy-sweet flavor.

I always recommend ordering at least a half dozen—one or two for now, and a few for later.

Unlike many cider donuts you’ll find around New England, Cold Hollow’s are unsugared, allowing the natural apple flavor to shine through.

Visiting Boston? Here is where to find the Best Apple Cider Donuts Near Boston.

Don’t Forget the Maple Creemee

Before you leave, grab a Vermont maple creemee, which is soft-serve ice cream made with local maple syrup.

It’s creamy, perfectly sweet, and one of the best in the state. Whether you get it in a cone or a cup, it’s the perfect way to wrap up your visit.

Combining the maple creemee with the warm donuts and a cup of hot apple cider is the perfect trio!

For all of my favorite maple creemes, read Maple Creemees in Vermont: 3 Must-Try Spots This Fall (2025).

Enjoying Your Fall Treats Outside

Once you’ve stocked up on cider, donuts, and maple goodies, step outside to enjoy them on the patio.

There are plenty of picnic tables and Adirondack chairs out front where you can sit back, sip your cider, and take in the view of the Green Mountains.

We visited here after our trip to see the puppies at the Golden Dog Farm!

Here is a look at my winter visit there: My Day with 10 Goldens at the Golden Dog Farm in Vermont

Tips for Visiting Cold Hollow Cider Mill

• Arrive early. The parking lot gets busy fast, especially on fall weekends. Getting there in the morning makes parking easier and lines shorter.
• Watch the cider press. Inside the mill, you can see the traditional rack-and-cloth press in action, just like they’ve used since the 1970s. It’s a fun part of the experience and shows how real Vermont cider is made.
• Try the maple creemee. Even if it’s chilly, don’t skip it. It’s one of the best in Vermont and a perfect sweet ending to your visit.
• Visit on a weekday if you can. Crowds are lighter, and you’ll have more time to browse the shop and enjoy the atmosphere.
• Make it part of your Route 100 road trip. Cold Hollow Cider Mill is right between Waterbury and Stowe, making it an easy and iconic stop on any Vermont fall itinerary.

Where is Cold Hollow Cider Mill

Cold Hollow Cider Mill is located in Waterbury, Vermont, right along scenic Route 100 between Stowe and Montpelier.

Explore More of Vermont

Keep your fall trip to Vermont going by reading more of my travel guides!

For more fall fun in Vermont, read 11 Best Fall Activities in Vermont You Can’t Miss (2025 Guide).

Then experience a Fall Visit to Shelburne Vineyard: The Best Winery in Vermont.

Make sure to visit the Goldens at Golden Dog Farm! My Day with 10 Goldens at the Golden Dog Farm in Vermont.

Heading to Burlington? Read my Burlington Food Guide: Where Locals Eat—Dumplings, & More!

Read all of my Vermont Travel Guides!