Escape Guide: West Dover, Vermont
by Katherine Parker-Magyar
In keeping with the Green Mountains theme (we profiled Burlington a couple weeks ago), let’s head over to West Dover, Vermont: home of Mount Snow Ski Resort. Unlike Burlington, which is the most populated city in the state, West Dover is more rural: but a 15 to 30 minute-drive to Wilmington or Manchester offers some great options for restaurants and bars. There is no shortage of outdoor activities in West Dover, however. So, snap on your ski boots, and check out the best places to explore.
PUT ‘EM BACK
Saloon // 131 VT-100, West Dover, VT 05356
Super low key (and also super fun), Saloon has good bar food and—of course, for any apres destination—a great selection of beer.
Cask & Kiln // 4 N Main St, Wilmington, VT 05363
For those of you with more champagne tastes, Cask & Kiln is a higher-end bar just outside Dover in the town of Wilmington. This Vermont institution is as busy as it is charming. The 1930s building is gorgeous, and the American cuisine is even better.
IF YOU CAN GET IN
The Hermitage Club // 183 Gatehouse Trl, Wilmington, VT 05363
This club has it all: private ski access, secluded golf course, fine dining, and luxurious accommodations. Members only, though, of course! Try your luck with connected friends and visit as a guest to see how the other half lives.
LOCAL'S PICKS
Dot's Diner // 3 W Main St, Wilmington, VT 05363
Enjoy a taste of Americana—literally. This place has the best tuna melts and milk shakes in the state/country. Open breakfast, lunch, and dinner.
Snow Barn // 294 Handle Rd, West Dover, VT 05356
Head here for live music after the slopes. The ideal place for when you want to get down and bust a move, even at the risk of making your sore muscles from skiing feel even worse There is no shame on the dancefloor here, so enjoy.
GOOD EATS
The Hermitage Inn // 25 Handle Rd, West Dover, VT 05356
Book a reservation at the Hermitage Inn for a romantic dinner (or festive post-ski treat). The site of many a wedding venue, perhaps you’ve even been here before. You don’t need to be celebrating a friend or relative’s nuptials to enjoy the ambience, though, so check it out.
Two Tannery // 2 Tannery Rd, West Dover, VT 05356
Enjoy a historic meal at Two Tannery—the building was first built in the 1700s, and bought by Teddy Roosevelt’s son and daughter-in-law in the 1900s … and now has the honor of being visited by you.
GET YOUR FIX
Sticky Fingers // 210 VT-100, West Dover, VT 05356
The cinnamon buns at this bakery are unreal. Tip: get there early in the morning, as they nearly always run out of baked goods. Make this your first stop.
GOOD TIMES
Hildene // 1005 Hildene Rd, Manchester, VT 05254
Drive into Manchester and visit Hildene, Robert Todd Lincoln's summer estate. The historic setting is absolutely beautiful, and they’ve since turned the house into a museum. They also have one of President Lincoln's hats, for all of you history nerds.
Equinox // 3567 Main St, Manchester Center, VT 05255
Hike up to Equinox Pond in Manchester, a beloved spot for locals and weekend natives alike. Part of the Equinox Preservation Trust, the resort is absolutely stunning and includes over 900 acres of protected land. Depending upon the season you can hike, snow shoe, cross-country ski and bike.
Mount Snow Ski Resort // West Dover, Vermont USA 05356
Duh. This is fairly obvious, but the skiing and snowboarding at Mount Snow speaks for itself. Never too crowded, with amazing vistas of the Green Mountains.
Mount Snow Beer Festival
The Mount Snow Beer Festival occurs every year at the end of the summer. Head north to sample the vast amount of craft beers on tap, while a traditional German Oompah band performs. The next best thing to Oktoberfest.
FILL YOUR BAG
Manchester Outlets // 97 Depot St, Manchester Center, VT 05255
This outlet has everything from Armani to Brooks Brothers, and is the perfect last-minute shopping trip before heading out of town. Justify your spending by arguing that you’re actually saving money, since you’re not paying full-price.
River Valley Market // 661 VT-100, Wilmington, VT 05363
This market has the best sandwiches, and the best meat to grill. Pick up something for the road (or something to grill back home).
HANG YOUR HAT
The White House Inn // 178 VT-9, Wilmington, VT 05363
The White House Inn and the Hermitage Inn, (listed above under restaurants), are the best spots to stay near Mount Snow. Both are lovely and quaint and offer a rural respite from daily life. This is always much-needed, so book your next trip soon!
Special thanks to Samantha Schraeter for the insider tips!
did we miss anything? Hit us up in the comments....
