Vermont vacation - summer 2010?

I am planning a visit to rural Vermont next summer. I thought that I might fly in to Burlington VT and stay beside Lake Champlain for a few days before venturing further afield to see as much of Vermont as possible - St Albans, Stowe, Rutland etc. Can I do this without hiring a car (not sure that rail/bus is fully available). Should I stay in one place throughout or perhaps stay in two or three places during my 10 -12 day stay? Will be travelling with the wife but we do have a limited budget - circa �1500. Any help/suggestions would be very gratefully received. Many thanks for your tips.