By Gabriel Schatz, Vermont Country correspondent.
Located in South-Central Vermont’s Deerfield Valley, Wilmington is a small historic village close to much of Southern Vermont’s best outdoor recreation, including Harriman Reservoir and Mount Snow. Located where Routes 9 and 100 meet, it’s a popular stop for fall travelers thanks to its mountain views, walkable downtown, and local shops, restaurants, and inns.
Just 2.5 hours from Boston and about 4 hours from New York City, Wilmington is easy to reach but hard to forget. The village has a long history, with many of its buildings dating back to the 1800s. The well-preserved historic downtown district feels like a snapshot of small-town New England life in the 19th century, albeit with more cars.
With recommendations for places to stay, eat, and shop, this guide has everything you need to experience Vermont’s famous foliage in Wilmington this fall.
Lodging
The Nutmeg Vermont
Located in a rustic red colonial across the street from the Deerfield River, The Nutmeg Vermont offers visitors an elegant country retreat. With 14 guest rooms, a seasonal saltwater pool, yoga studio, full breakfast service, and riverside setting, you’ll never want to check out.
“We pride ourselves on thoughtful service,” says co-owner Shelley. “From remembering how you like your eggs to sharing the best local hikes, we want every guest to feel cared for.”
With mountains rising up a stone’s throw away and downtown Wilmington just a few minutes down the road, The Nutmeg is the perfect mix of retreat and access.
Visit: www.thenutmegvermont.com
Instagram: @thenutmegvermont
Location: 153 W Main Street, Wilmington, VT 05363
The Wilmington Inn
Built in 1894, the beautifully restored Wilmington Inn is a prime example of the town’s commitment to historical preservation. Originally a private residence, the building now serves as a top choice for guests visiting the village.
“Our mission is to create a home-away-from-home experience for guests,” says owner Charlie Foster. “We love sharing this historic space and being part of the town’s revival.”
Ranked #1 on TripAdvisor for lodging in the area, The Wilmington Inn is the perfect place to start and end your fall adventures. Guests enjoy a full breakfast to keep them exploring all day, a bar on-site for when they return in the evening, and a walkable location just steps away from downtown.
Visit: www.thewilmingtoninn.com
Instagram: @thewilmingtoninn
Location: 41 W Main St, Wilmington, VT 05363
Shopping
Arthouse
Near the center of downtown Wilmington stands a 195-year-old Greek revival church turned art sanctuary. Step inside Arthouse Vermont, a relatively new business in Wilmington that has focused on showcasing and supporting local creatives. Since opening in early 2024, this cooperative gallery has become a hub for more than 40 local artists. From pottery and woodworking to oil paintings and mixed media, every piece is reflective of the immense talent and imagination growing here in the Green Mountain State.
“Our goal is to make art approachable while supporting local artists,” says owner and curator Jenevieve Penk. “We invite guests to explore, sip wine, and even build their own charcuterie board.”
Open every day except Wednesdays, Arthouse offers classes, events, and a cozy wine bar that encourages connection between visitors. Whether you’re picking out a one-of-a-kind gift or attending an evening art workshop, Arthouse is a stellar addition to Wilmington’s cultural scene.
Visit: www.arthousevt.com
Instagram: @arthousevt
Location: 12 S Main St, Wilmington, VT 05363
Bartleby’s Books
Every community needs a good bookstore, and Bartleby’s has been a cornerstone of Wilmington since 1989. With a selection of bestsellers, indie titles, regional reads, cookbooks, kid’s books, and more, Bartleby’s has something for everyone.
In the tradition of the best small-town bookstores, Bartleby’s makes up for a smaller physical catalogue by thoughtfully curating its offerings. A good mix of popular contemporary titles, classics, and more niche recommendations from the staff make it easy to find familiar favorites, exciting new reads, or personalized recommendations for gifting.
“We try to have something for everyone,” says owner Lisa Sullivan. “Our staff can always help you find the perfect book, for yourself or as a gift.”
With online ordering, gift wrapping, and delivery available, Bartleby’s is a welcoming stop for readers and a key part of Wilmington’s cultural heartbeat.
Visit: www.myvermontbookstore.com
Instagram: @bartlebysbooks
Location: 17 W Main St, Wilmington, VT 05363
Pickwell’s Barn
A staple of Wilmington’s shopping scene since 1995, Pickwell’s Barn is housed in a historic 1836 barn that’s almost as much of a draw as the treasures inside. Offering a curated mix of home accents, jewelry, accessories, and clothing, the shop has become a go-to destination for visitors seeking stylish, fun, and above all, comfortable, fashion.
Owner Andrea Berg wants to create a memorable experience for every guest. “Our goal is always to make shopping fun,” she says. “We love helping people put together looks they feel great in. My goal is to make sure people enjoy their time in the store, as well as promoting the town.”
With a welcoming atmosphere and a friendly, fashion-savvy staff, Pickwell’s is a reminder that shopping can—and should—be something that makes you feel good.
Instagram & Facebook: @pickwells_barn
Location: 22B W Main Street, Wilmington, VT 05363
The Fashion Plate
This isn’t your everyday consignment shop; The Fashion Plate is a destination, luring fashion lovers and treasure hunters alike with curated clothing, home goods, menswear, and even pet items. The ever-changing selection means regular visitors are rewarded: “People travel just to visit our store,” says co-owner Kathie Costello. “Our repeat customers come back every season for something new and special.”
Eye-catching outdoor displays show off the shop’s offerings to passersby on Main St, drawing in pedestrians and causing drivers to start looking for the nearest parking spot. Whether you’re building your next concert outfit or just trying to find a new piece for daily wear, a visit to The Fashion Plate could be just what you need.
Location: 29 W Main Street, Wilmington, VT 05363
The Uncommon Robin
Opening October 1st just outside of downtown Wilmington, The Uncommon Robin is a new pottery studio from local artist Erin Robinson. A former massage therapist who fell in love with pottery during the pandemic, Erin is turning her passion into a full-time pursuit while helping others discover the joy of working with clay.
All of The Uncommon Robin’s pieces are handmade by Erin right here in Vermont, including mugs, bowls, tumblers, and 420-friendly accessories. Her work is currently available at Ratu’s Cannabis Supply in Wilmington and Dutton’s Farm Stand locations in Newfane and Manchester.
In addition to retail offerings, Erin will be hosting both wheel and slab building pottery classes, as well as paint-and-sip sessions where visitors can customize handmade pottery.
Visit: www.theuncommonrobin.com
Instagram: @theuncommonrobin
Food & Drink
Alpenglow Bistro
Experience a taste of the Alps in New England at Alpenglow Bistro. Founded by Susan Motyl and women-run since 2021, this alpine-inspired restaurant offers a hearty, creative menu and cozy ambiance that feels like it was handcrafted to pair with a crisp autumn evening.
“Our inspiration comes from the Alps, but our hospitality is pure Vermont,” says Motyl. “Our chef, Manny Rueda, prepares everything from scratch, and our cocktails and menus reflect the seasonal produce we get here.”
The menu at Alpenglow features dishes inspired by the alpine regions of Austria, Germany, and Switzerland. Vermont’s seasonal produce, wide varieties of small-batch cheeses, and excellent availability of cured, smoked, and fresh meats lends itself exceptionally well to alpine cuisine, making Alpenglow an experience that is both authentically European and uniquely Vermont.
With birch wallpaper, antler sconces, and a fireplace-lit private dining room upstairs, Alpenglow is ideal for intimate gatherings or a special night out. Don’t miss the fondue or the handcrafted desserts made by in-house artist-chef Nessa Kennedy.
Visit: www.alpenglowbistrovt.com
Instagram: @alpenglow_vt
Location: 9 W Main Street, Wilmington, VT 05363
Butter Mountain Bakery
What started at a farmers market table in 2015 is now one of Wilmington’s most beloved spots for fresh, scratch-made baked goods. Founded by classically trained pastry chef Hannah Small, Butter Mountain Bakery operates out of the Old School Enrichment Center, where online orders are baked and picked up weekly by loyal locals and in-the-know visitors.
Hannah, who honed her craft in Michelin-starred kitchens before moving to Wilmington, bakes everything with high-quality ingredients, and lots of butter. Sourdough, bagels, cakes, cookies, pies, and custom wedding desserts all come out of her kitchen looking almost too good to eat, with an emphasis on almost.
While there’s no traditional storefront, the weekly pre-order model makes it easy to get your baked goods fix. Follow along on Instagram or Facebook to see the latest menu and place your order.
Visit: www.buttermountainbakery.com
Instagram/Facebook: @buttermountainbakery
Ratu’s Liquor and Market
Ratu’s understands that a business like a liquor store needs to set itself apart from the crowd. With reggae music floating through the air and colorful displays of Vermont spirits, craft beers, and wine, Ratu’s delivers a good-vibes-only experience that does just that.
“We want everyone who walks in to feel like family,” says owner Jennifer Betit-Engel. “We remember your favorite drink, your name, your story.”
No one champions shopping local like Vermonters do, and Ratu’s is no exception; the Vermont Domestic Market is a dedicated space that features items from local vendors and gives 100% of proceeds back to the artists.
Ratu’s also offers 8 beers on tap and personalized orders to suit your needs.
Visit: Facebook | Instagram
Location: 34 W Main St, Wilmington, VT 05363
Starfire Bakery and Roaster
Starfire Bakery & Roastery brings house-roasted coffee and handmade baked goods to Wilmington. Their fresh sourdough, challah, focaccia, pastries, and espresso drinks fuel locals and travelers alike.
“We merged our two businesses this spring to offer a true full-service cafe experience,” says co-owner Chrystal Holt. “It’s one of the few places where you can get house-roasted coffee and small-batch babka in one stop.”
From delightfully crispy ham and cheese croissants to traditional sourdough loaves, the quality at Starfire always speaks for itself. Old-standbys like apple fritters and blueberry muffins share the shelves with lesser known but equally delicious offerings like kouign-amann, giving the bakery a selection that will have you wishing for a second stomach.
Sit in the cozy cafe space or grab a box to enjoy your treat along the scenic drive through the valley.
Visit: Facebook
Location: 129 Rte 9E, Wilmington, VT 05363
Valley Craft Ales
Overlooking the Deerfield River, Valley Craft Ales is a four-season destination for craft beer lovers, music fans, foodies, and travelers seeking true Northern hospitality. With a constantly rotating selection of house-made beers, a calendar full of live music and events, and New Haven-style ‘Apizza’ that locals swear by, there’s always something happening at Valley.
The spacious 10,000-square-foot venue hosts everything from public concerts to private events, and upstairs, Valley Stays offers comfortable, convenient lodging just a staircase away from the taproom. Whether you’re in town for a quick pint, a slice of their soppressata apizza with hot honey, or a weekend getaway, Valley Craft Ales is here to deliver.
Visit: www.valleybeer.io
Instagram: @valleycraftales
Location: 18 N Main St, Wilmington, VT 05363
Wahoo’s Eatery
A roadside staple since 2000, Wahoo’s Eatery started as a simple trailer and quickly grew into a local institution. Set just off of VT-9as it passes through Wilmington, this casual spot draws travelers, weekenders, and locals alike with a stacked menu and laid-back outdoor vibe.
Wahoo’s is best known for hand-pattied burgers, seasoned fries, wraps, and soft-serve ice-cream, all served up fast and fresh by a hard-working, friendly team. With an extensive menu featuring everything from chicken tenders to Korean pork tacos and veggie rice bowls, there’s something for everyone. The large lot and outdoor seating make it a great stop to stretch your legs, admire the scenery, and fill up on comfort food before continuing your adventure.
Visit: www.wahooseatery.com
Facebook: @Wahoo’s Eatery
Location: 2 Whites Rd, Wilmington, VT 05363
