Our Guide To Woodstock, Vermont | New York
An impromptu maple-drenched weekend in Vermont
With its quaint covered bridges and immaculate town green, Woodstock, Vermont, deserves its nickname, "The Prettiest Small Town in America," in any season. But with the maple sap starting to flow, the state shakes off winter for special syrupy events throughout March and April. Below, we've plotted out the perfect itinerary, plus a handy map.
1. The Woodstocker Inn Forgo stuffy B&Bs for this modern alternative run by two British transplants. Book the Westminster room for twin soaking tubs; a breakfast of French-press coffee, Red Hen bread, local eggs and homemade marmalade will fortify you for the day. 61 River St., Woodstock; 866-662-1439 or woodstockervt.com
2. Woodstock Farmers Market This gourmet market stocks local favorites such as Eden Ice Cider, Nitty Gritty cornbread mix, Long Trail beer, and cheese from Consider Bardwell, Thistle Hill Farm and Jasper Hill Farm. Bolster a day of hiking or skiing with one of the market's justifiably famous sandwiches and a caramel-chocolate-oat Carmelita bar. 468 Woodstock Rd. (Rte. 4), Woodstock; 802-457-3658 or woodstockfarmersmarket.com
3. Sugarbush Farm At this third-generation, 6,000-maple farm, visitors can take a self-guided walk to see tap lines, tour the sugaring house with its giant wood-fired evaporators and try shots of all four grades of syrup before picking up some to take home. 591 Sugarbush Farm Rd., Woodstock; 800-281-1757 or sugarbushfarm.com
4. Simon Pearce Make dinner reservations in advance at this acclaimed glassblowing and ceramics workshop and restaurant, all housed in a mill that hangs over the falls of the Ottauquechee River. Before dinner, watch the artisans at work, then sit down for tender chicken over cavatelli with arugula and fennel. 1760 Quechee Main St., Quechee; 802-295-1470 or simonpearce.com
5. Farmers Diner This popular spot was inspired by the idea that diner food is great, but it's even better when made with ingredients from community farmers. Take a seat in the original dining car and fuel up for your drive home with a Stafford Creamery maple milkshake and a plate of Gleason Grains pancakes, then grab maple cotton candy and cheese at the neighboring Cabot Cheese shop. 5573 Woodstock Rd. (Rte. 4), Quechee; 802- 295-4600 or farmersdiner.com