Where to Stop Along the Way
Leaving routine behind is how the adventure begins.
Whether you're coming from New York, Boston, or other points south, crossing the state line into Vermont feels like entering another world: Green hills rise up from picturesque valleys, small towns dot the tree and farm-filled landscape, and the road soon follows the sparkling West River north.
Here’s how to spend a couple of hours before check-in.
BRATTLEBORO
Take Exit 2 off I-91 to Brattleboro, Vermont. Park your car, grab lunch, and enjoy the walkable downtown.
Yalla Vermont falafel & eastern Mediterranean lunch spot
Brattleboro Food Co-opfor provisions &/or lunch, smoothies
Tavernier Chocolates for the most incredible artisanal chocolates you’ve ever tasted, plus VT-made marshmallows for tonight’s campfire
The Humble Mug for a creative hot or iced tea to-go, or enjoy a beverage in their cozy cafe (great on a rainy day)
BRATTLEBORO TO NEWFANE
Hop back in your car and head north on Route 30 towards Newfane. The scenic 12 mile drive follows the West River and takes about 20 minutes, but you can easily spend an hour+ or two making stops:
Retreat Farm Market Cheese, wine, picnic fare, popsicles, chocolates — all made in VT & New England. Stretch your legs on the Retreat Farm trails before hopping back in the car.
Wild Carrot Farm Our favorite farm stand with locally- grown and made items
West River Cafe Grab an afternoon pick-me-up plus pastries for tomorrow’s breakfast. Visit the adjoining Fire Arts Gallery if time allows.
Waterfall | Pull off at Stickney Brook Rd (left — west side of Rte 30) in West Dummerston to view the gentle cascades at Old Jelly Mill Falls
Jeff’s BasementAntiques and vintage furniture, across from the Historic Dummerston Covered Bridge
Historic Dummerston Covered Bridge & Swimming Hole | A few miles north of Stickney Brook Rd., you'll see the picturesque covered bridge on your right (east side of Rte 30). There's a parking area for viewing the bridge and steps that lead down to the river (swim at your own risk).
Swimming Hole | Keep driving north and you're likely to see many cars parked along Rte 30 on summer days near Depot Rd. A path leads down to the West River just before the bridge on the right (east) side of Rte 30 (swim at your own risk).
NEWFANE
Almost there! Newfane is the last town before Tanglebloom so grab any last provisions here.
Green Mountain Wine Shop Curated selection of beer and wine, plus Bread from the Earth sourdough baguette on Fridays
Dutton Berry Farm Farm stand with fruits, vegetables, baked & dry goods
The Newfane Store Beloved general store and deli. If it’s a hot day, try a maple cremee (maple soft-serve ice cream) or house-made fruit slushie.