As a long-time VT resident, I can tell you that peak fall foliage always varies somewhat depending on seasonal weather conditions, but generally the first weekend in Oct. is considered peak ... so you're in a good window of time. Be aware also that foliage peaks sooner in the southern parts of the state, later in northern regions. And while catching "peak" is a common visitor goal, color is often beautiful shy of peak... Foliage vistas are more dramatic in rural parts of the state, which tend to be in central to northern Vermont - southern VT is far more urban. If foliage is your goal, check out companies who do bus foliage tours -- they cover quite a bit of territory with knowledge of the best possible foliage payoff.

Check out vermont.com, which lists a variety of activities going on around the state. Many small towns have foliage festivals with live music by local bands and other goodies.

If you're really interested in "getting down with chickas in da club," look at college towns like Burlington (University of VT) and Middlebury ( Middlebury College) - more likely to find active nightlife in those places (not limited to college age) AND outlying beautiful countryside. Be aware, though that both those locations have limited hotels/motels and get booked up in advance (especially if the school has a big sports events also going on).

The Connecticut River valley is a lovely area, especially if you're fond of water, bordering VT/NH.

Hope this is helpful!

ok, off to Vermont I go. I'll write about the trip upon return.

Just a correction to the above post - the foliage peaks sooner the further north you go. For late September, the northern part of the state is better - although the whole state is very beautiful. I agree with the above comment that the Connecticut River Valley is very beautiful and unspoiled (I live there, on the NH side). Aside from the mall sprawl around Burlington, most of Vermont is very rural. Drive off on nearly any back road and you will be in for a treat. The Woodstock area is very popular with tourists, and it's a picture perfect upscale Vermont village. Other very scenic spots would include the Waitsfield/Warren area, Stowe, Grafton, Chester, and Smugglers Notch (there are tons more). Most of the activities will center around the outdoors - hiking, biking, apple picking,kayaking, etc. Other then Burlington and to a lesser extent Brattleboro and Middlebury, there isn't much in the way of night life or shopping.

You'll probably have difficulties finding a place to stay if you do not have reservations.

Vt. 100 goes up the Vermont spine and is one of the better roads to see the foliage and the small towns.