Discover the best of Vermont with our curated Local Guides—featuring our favorite places to explore, dine, and unwind. From scenic hiking trails and hidden swimming holes to charming cafés, artisan shops, and four-season outdoor adventures, this collection highlights the experiences that make our corner of Vermont special. Whether you’re seeking family-friendly fun, outdoor thrills, or quiet spots to relax, you’ll find hand-picked recommendations to help you make the most of your stay at Hemlock Lodge.
🍽️ Eat & Drink
River Road Eatery — Bondville, VT
Location: 1 River Rd, Bondville, VT 05340 — just minutes from Winhall and the base of Stratton Mountain Resort, located behind Lincoln Maples Hardware.
Vibe & Highlights: Just minutes from Winhall and the base of Stratton, River Road Eatery is a warm, modern spot serving elevated comfort food in a relaxed mountain setting. Guests love their handcrafted pizzas, Black Angus burgers, fresh seafood dishes, and creative specials. It’s a perfect choice for families, groups, or anyone craving a satisfying meal after a day on the trails or slopes.
Website: https://riverroadeatery.com/
River & Rye —
Jamaica, VT
Location: 3817 VT-30, Jamaica, VT — right in the heart of Jamaica Village and a quick, scenic drive from Hemlock Lodge. Close to local shops, trails, and the West River.
Vibe & Highlights: An intimate, modern rustic dining spot focused on hyper-seasonal, Vermont-sourced ingredients. River & Rye offers a chef-driven menu, creative cocktails, and a warm, elevated atmosphere that still feels relaxed and welcoming. A perfect choice for a special night out close to the lodge.
Website: https://www.riverandrye.com/
Honeypie —
Rawsonville, VT
Location: 8811 VT-30, Jamaica, VT 05343 — intersection of VT-30 and VT-100 in Rawsonville, VT
Vibe & Highlights: A modern roadside eatery known for gourmet burgers, crispy fried chicken, and hand-cut fries. A local favorite—quick but high-quality. The setting is an old gas station/ convenient store that was converted into a restaurant. Its sister restaurant is the acclaimed SoLo Farm & Table just down the street.
Website: https://www.eatathoneypie.com/
🍽️ More Local Eateries
SoLo Farm & Table (South Londonderry)
One of the area’s best farm-to-table restaurants. Upscale but cozy, with hyper-local ingredients and a detailed, seasonal menu. Reservation recommended.
The New American Grill (Londonderry)
A versatile option with salads, sandwiches, noodle bowls, and comfort food. Consistently good and family-friendly.
Grandma Miller's Pies & Pastries (South Londonderry)
Homemade fruit pies, cookies, and breads…just like grandma’s (if your grandma is Grandma Miller).
🍽️ In Manchester
Neighborhood Noodle
Delicious ramen and select Japanese-inspired dishes in a casual setting.
Nong's Kitchen Asian Bistro
Nong’s Kitchen celebrates the artistry of Asian cuisine in a harmonious blend of traditional flavors and innovative dishes, crafted with locally sourced ingredients for freshness and quality.
The Crooked Ram
During summer months, check out The Yard – it’s is an open-air kitchen and bar surrounded by lush native gardens. The main restaurant is a perfect spot for date night.
Lost Marble Brewing Company
Pizzas, wings, burgers, and craft brews…enough said.
Avocado Pit
Quick-serve dining meets gourmet Mexican cuisine. Favorite dishes, such as tacos, burritos and salads, are made-to-order with locally sourced ingredients.
RoadRunner
Our favorite go to spot for lunch (fried chicken, sandwiches, lunchbox, and hand cut fries).
Sam’s Wood Fired Pizza
From classic margherita pies to creative artisanal specialties, they’re baked to perfection in the wood-fired oven.
⛰️ Nearby Ski Areas
Stratton Mountain Resort
Just a short drive away, Vermont's favorite winter & summer ski resort destination with 99 trails over 670 acres of skiable terrain, 95% of which has snowmaking and Ikon Pass access. https://www.stratton.com/
Mount Snow Resort
Located in southern Vermont in West Dover, Mount Snow is one of the very first ski resorts on the East Coast, with varied terrain, a powerful snowmaking fleet, top-notch competitions and events, and a thriving après scene with live music and exciting events. https://www.mountsnow.com/
Bromley Mountain Ski Resort
Vermont's Sun Mountain—features 47 sunny trails, nine lifts, and 360° summit views that stretch across the Green Mountains' ridgelines and neighboring peaks. https://www.bromley.com/
Magic Mountain Ski Area
Magic offers a laid-back, chill vibe when you want to get away from the hustle & bustle of the world. Magic is an oasis for those passionate about the sport. https://www.magicmtn.com/
Okemo Mountain Resort
Okemo is Vermont's premier family mountain resort and top destination for winter fun and adventure. https://www.okemo.com/
Killington Resort
Killington Mountain Resort & Ski Area is the largest ski area in the eastern U.S., and has the largest vertical drop in New England at 3,050 feet. The mountain has been nicknamed the "Beast of the East." https://www.killington.com/
❄️ Winter Guide
Stratton Mountain's Nordic Center
Stratton Mountain’s Nordic Center features 10km of cross-country ski trails groomed for both classic and skate skiing and 3km of single-track snowshoe trails. https://www.stratton.com/thing...
VAST Snowmobile Trails
Miles of groomed snowmobile routes for riders of all experience levels (permits required).
Cross-Country Skiing & Snowshoeing
Jamaica State Park and the West River Trail become serene winter wonderlands.
Horse-Drawn Sleigh Rides
Taylor FarmA magical Vermont experience through snowy fields and forests. https://www.taylorfarmvt.com/w...
🌲 Parks, Trails & Nature Spots
Hamilton Falls
A dramatic, multi-tiered waterfall tucked into the forest. Stunning year-round, though best viewed from safe vantage points due to steep ledges.
Pikes Falls (Londonderry)
A picturesque swimming hole and small waterfall. Clear water, smooth rocks, and tranquil forest surroundings make it a local favorite in summer.
Jamaica State Park Swim Area
A calm, family-friendly spot along the West River—great for wading, tubing, or relaxing on warm afternoons.