When you think of Vermont you think of covered bridges, rolling green mountains and old-time country stores. Each of Vermont’s quaint small towns has a country store that honors the tradition of the town and provides a place for the community to come together. When you step into a country store you feel like you are taking a step back in time. Visiting Vermont would not be complete without experiencing the best of its country stores also known as general stores. Country stores are much more than convenience stores, they are quaint, old-fashioned places that provide a genuine experience of New England Tradition. Country stores are special because not only do they carry local products and household items but also the history of each town. The historic preservation of these old-time country stores has become an integral part of Vermont towns for a very long time.
These general stores have everything you need including local jams, maple syrup, farm-fresh produce, Vermont gifts, delicious sandwiches and so much more. Each store has its own unique flair and ambiance and something new to discover. If you only have time to go to one shop while in Vermont, make sure it’s one of our favorite country stores. Today I am sharing a roundup of the best country stores that locals and tourists alike should consider visiting.
15 Best Country Stores in Vermont
South Woodstock Country Store
Nestled in the small hamlet of South Woodstock (about 10 minutes outside of the Woodstock village), the South Woodstock Country Store is everything you know and love in a quintessential country store. Stock up on maple syrup or other specialty gifts like candles, children’s toys and cards or enjoy wholesome, locally sourced breakfast and lunch dining in their quaint seating area. Locals stop in to use the post office next door. Or even better, grab a sandwich to go and enjoy it at the Inn’s pond next-door, The Kedron Pond, during the warmer months.
F.H. Gillingham and Sons
F.H. Gillingham and Sons in Woodstock, Vermont has been open since 1886. This family owned business is a staple in the Woodstock community. This store uniquely sells both traditional and modern high quality Vermont made items. You can find everything here from jams, cheeses, toys, wine, kitchenware, candies, etc. This is a store adored by locals and visitors alike.
Dorset Union Store
The Dorset Union Store is everything you could want in a historic Vermont general store. They have a great selection of Vermont goodies, breakfast, and lunch deli options all while honoring the history of the store and town.
The Vermont Country Store
Vermont Country Store in Bellows Falls and Weston, Vermont are two of Vermont’s most famous country stores. The Bellows Falls location is located next to the Vermont Country Store Kissing Bridge which is a popular place for photos and weddings. People travel from far and wide to experience the nostalgic trip down memory lane. With Vermont souvenirs and novelty items like old fashioned penny candy, homemade soaps, candles, kitchenware, clothing, houseware, gifts, toys, ice cream, cheeses and jams. Their small in-house restaurant serves sandwiches, hot dogs and burgers. Open daily 10am-5pm.
Get Directions: Bellows Falls, Vermont & Weston, Vermont
The Vermont Spot – Country Store
The Vermont Spot – Country Store in Quechee, Vermont is an excellent place to stock up on all your Vermont souvenirs. With everything from fresh delicious fudge, darn tough socks, cheese and candies, the Vermont Spot has you covered for gifts and other treasure to remind you of your special trip in VT.
Shelburne Country Store
Located in the heart of Shelburne, Vermont the Shelburne Country Store is a true gem. Operating since 1859, head into this store for their famous fudge, puzzles, maple syrup, Vermont calendars, beef jerky, jams, note cards by local artists and jewelry. Open 9am-6pm daily.
1836 Country Store
1836 Country Store in Wilmington, Vermont is a treasure trove for all things Vermont. Here you will find the best of Vermont food, handcrafted chocolates and fudge, children’s toys, kitchenware, U.S. flags and all things that say Vermont to commemorate your Vermont adventure. Open 10am-5pm daily.
Hogback Country Mountain
A Vermont fixture since 1936, Hogback Country Mountain in Marlboro, Vermont is unique featuring a gorgeous 270 degree “100 mile” view. Featuring maple products, apothecary, apparel, candy, cheese, fudge, games and toys, home decor, kitchenware and specialty foods, Hogback is a country store you don’t want to miss. Open 9am-5pm daily.
Rocking Horse Country Store
Rocking Horse Country Store in Rutland, Vermont features a range of Vermont brands and handmade gifts and souvenirs- including specialty food products, hot sauce, cheese, maple syrup products, chocolates, gifts, jewelry and socks. Open 9am-6pm daily.
Hubbard’s Country Store
Hubbard’s Country Store is a small country store in Hancock, Vermont. This is the perfect place to stop if you are in the area and want a bite to eat and the small town country store feel. They have ice cold homemade root beer, freshly baked chocolate chip cookies, homemade key lime pie, fun old school candies, local cheese, wine, more baked goods and delicious pizza. They always feature local artisans throughout the store. Open 10am-6pm daily (7pm on Friday and Saturday).
The Wells Country Store
The Wells Country Store in Wells, Vermont is another small town treasure. This quaint country store sells merchandise, pure Vermont maple syrup, goat milk soaps, mugs, t-shirts and has a small bakery and deli serving up delicious sandwiches. Open 7am-6pm daily (4:30pm on Saturday and Sunday).
Wayside Country Store
This old time country store in Arlington, Vermont is everything an old country store in Vermont should be. Wayside Country Store sells local cheeses, prepared food, clothing, baked goods, and a deli with delicious food. They have a friendly staff and keep things classic. Open 6am-7pm (3pm on Sundays and closed Mondays).
The Country Store on Main
The Country Store on Main in Stowe, Vermont features unique gifts from artisans near and far. With a recent renovation this store has a beautiful, updated, refined and modern look selling quality items. The owner said, “Sure, we’re not truly a country store like other country stores in Vermont. But at most country stores you can get just about anything. And at CSOM, you’re able to get just about anything, for anyone in your family! Newborn babies to 102-year old-grandparents, we have something for them.” Open 10am-6pm daily!
Newfane Country Store
Breakfast sandwiches, coffee, sandwiches, beer and wine and a lovely seating area to enjoy your food, Newfane Country Store is the perfect spot for a bit to eat and that small town country store feel.
Northeast Kingdom Country Store
A classic country story with yummy bites to eat and friendly staff, Northeast Kingdom Country Store provides a great stop for a true Vermont experience. Sandwiches, pancakes and pizza are all local favorites! Open 9am-6pm daily (8pm on Friday/Saturday).
More of our Favorite Vermont General Stores
Warren Country Store (Warren, VT)
Shrewsbury Co-op at Pierce’s Store (Shrewsbury, VT
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