Things To Do
Guilford Welcome Center
9:00 AM - Vermont Welcome Center, Guilford • Location: 1596 Harwood Hill Rd, Guilford, VT 05301 • Activity: Start your day at the Vermont Welcome Center, located just off I-91. This is a great spot to grab maps, brochures, and local tips. The center offers clean restrooms, vending machines, and a small exhibit on Vermont’s history and attractions. Spend about 15-20 minutes browsing or asking staff for any last-minute recommendations. • Duration: 20 minutes • Notes: Free parking is available. The center is a good place to pick up info on local events or fall foliage updates if you’re traveling in autumn.
Hogback Mountain Country Store
9:35 AM - Hogback Mountain Country Store, Marlboro • Location: 7627 VT-9, Marlboro, VT 05344 • Activity: Visit the Hogback Mountain Country Store and its famous 100-mile view observation deck. The deck offers panoramic vistas of the Green Mountains and neighboring states (Massachusetts, New Hampshire) on clear days. Browse the store for Vermont-made products like maple syrup, cheeses, and souvenirs. If you have binoculars, bring them for a closer look at the scenery. The area also has remnants of an old ski resort, but the observation deck is the main draw. • Duration: 30 minutes • Notes: The store is open daily, typically 9 AM–6 PM, but check seasonal hours. The observation deck is accessible and free. Parking is available.
Dot's
10:15 AM - Breakfast at Dot’s Restaurant, Wilmington • Location: 3 E Main St, Wilmington, VT 05363 • Activity: Enjoy breakfast at Dot’s Restaurant, a local favorite known for its hearty, classic diner fare and cozy atmosphere. The restaurant overlooks the Deerfield River, adding to the charm. Recommended dishes include pancakes with local maple syrup, omelets, or their famous homemade pies if you want a sweet treat. Expect a welcoming, small-town vibe. • Duration: 1 hour (45 minutes for dining, 15 minutes buffer for service/wait time) • Notes: Dot’s is popular, so you may encounter a short wait during peak hours. Open for breakfast (typically 7 AM–2 PM, but confirm hours). Prices are reasonable (~$10–15 per person). Reservations are not typically needed for small groups.
Stratton Mountain
11:40 AM - Stratton Mountain Resort: Village and Gondola Ride • Location: 5 Village Lodge Rd, Stratton Mountain, VT 05155 • Activity: • Village Exploration: Spend time in Stratton Village, a charming alpine-style area with shops, cafes, and a relaxed vibe. Browse for souvenirs like Vermont-themed apparel or local crafts. If you’re visiting in summer or fall, check for any outdoor events or live music (e.g., summer concert series or family-friendly activities like the Doggie and Me 5K). • Gondola Ride: Take the scenic gondola ride to the summit of Stratton Mountain, the highest peak in southern Vermont. The ride offers 360-degree views of the Green Mountains, Adirondacks, and beyond (weather permitting). At the top, enjoy short walking trails or simply soak in the vistas. Tickets are ~$30 for adults, $20 for children (5–12), and must be purchased in advance online. The gondola typically operates 10 AM–4 PM in summer/fall, weather dependent.
The Vermont Country Store Weston
2:15 PM - Vermont Country Store, Weston • Location: 657 Main St, Weston, VT 05161 • Activity: Visit the iconic Vermont Country Store, a nostalgic general store stocked with Vermont-made goods, including maple products, cheeses, jams, and retro items like old-fashioned candies. Enjoy a maple creemee (soft-serve ice cream) or browse unique gifts. The store is a cultural staple, offering a glimpse into Vermont’s heritage. If time allows, take a short walk around Weston’s quaint village green or visit the nearby Weston Playhouse for a quick photo. • Duration: 1 hour • Notes: Open daily, typically 9 AM–6 PM. Parking is free. The creemee stand is a must-try (cash recommended for small purchases). This stop balances indoor exploration with the outdoor scenic vibe of your trip.
Manchester Center
3:35 PM - Explore Manchester Center • Location: Manchester Center, VT 05255 • Activity: Spend time exploring downtown Manchester, known for its boutique shops, historic charm, and vibrant atmosphere. Key stops include: • Northshire Bookstore: A renowned independent bookstore with a vast selection, cozy reading nooks, and Vermont-themed gifts. • Manchester Designer Outlets: Browse high-end brands at discounted prices, perfect for quick shopping. • Orvis Flagship Store: Check out outdoor gear and Vermont’s fly-fishing heritage. • Stroll Main Street to admire historic buildings and maybe grab a coffee at a local cafe like The Little Rooster Cafe. • Duration: 1 hour 15 minutes • Notes: Parking is available downtown. Manchester is compact, so you can cover a lot on foot. If you’re interested in history, consider a quick stop at Hildene (the Lincoln family estate), and a full visit requires 2–3 hours, so it’s better saved for another trip.
The Silver Fork
4:50 PM - Dinner in Manchester • Location: Silver Fork, 507 Main St, Manchester Center, VT 05255 • Activity: Enjoy an early dinner at Silver Fork, a highly recommended fine-dining restaurant set in a former library. The eclectic menu features dishes like duck breast, seafood risotto, or vegetarian options, paired with excellent service. Expect a cozy, upscale ambiance perfect for winding down your day. Reservations are recommended, especially for a 5:00 PM seating. • Duration: 1 hour • Notes: Entrees range from $25–40. Call ahead (802-768-8444) to reserve a table. If Silver Fork is booked, alternatives include Mystic Cafe & Wine Bar or Ye Olde Tavern for classic New England fare.
Hampton Inn Brattleboro
6:40 PM - Arrive at Hampton Inn, Brattleboro • Location: 1378 Putney Rd, Brattleboro, VT 05301 • Activity: Check in and relax at the Hampton Inn & Suites, a clean, budget-friendly hotel with modern amenities like free Wi-Fi, a hot breakfast (included), and a fitness center. Its location near I-91 makes it convenient for ending your day. • Notes: Check-in is typically 3:00 PM, so you’re well within the window. If you arrive earlier than expected, consider a short stroll in downtown Brattleboro (5-minute drive) to visit the Brattleboro Museum and Art Center or Whetstone Beer Company if you have energy left.