Issues → September/October 2011 → Travel →
The Best 5 Vermont Country Stores
by Christina Tree
Throughout the Green Mountain State, it's the conversations that you hear in line as well as at the counter. Even if you rush in, you don't tend to rush out. That's the difference between a country store and a convenience store. And few people know Vermont country stores as well as Christina Tree. For more than four decades she's roamed New England for her Explorer's Guide series, and she's the acknowledged expert on the region's treasures. Vermont: An Explorer's Guide (Countryman Press, 2009) is now in its 12th edition. For still more classic Vermont emporiums, visit: vaics.org
Willey's Store
Close to Caspian Lake, a serious source of meat, local cheese, produce, and groceries, plus hardware and an upstairs full of clothing and boots, yard goods, buttons, and more. 7 Breezy Ave., Greensboro Village. 802-533-2621
Currier's Quality Market
Stuffed forest animals lurk in and above the aisles, handy ways to direct customers to specific groceries. Mailboxes and sporting supplies are beyond the 948-pound moose. 2984 Glover St. (Route 16), Glover. 802-525-8822
Dan & Whit's General Store
"If we don't have it, you don't need it" remains a store credo, covering woodstoves to Cheerios to chicken feed. 319 Main St., Norwich. 802-649-1602; danandwhits.com
Floyd's Store
The 1912 cash register works, and customers warm the rockers by the potbelly stove that doesn't. Check the magazine swap shelf. Staples include penny candy, local cheeses, and veterinary supplies. 3 Main St. (Route 66), Randolph Center. 802-728-5333
The Warren Store
The best of a new breed, this old market redefines the concept of "general" in "general store." Over the years it has evolved with its village, adding fine wines, Vermont specialty foods, and an upstairs "More Store" with clothing, toys, and other merchandise. Now breads and pastries are baked out back. Deli items are organic, preferably locally sourced, hot as well as cold, and there are tables on the deck, by the river. 284 Main St., Warren Village. 802-496-3864; warrenstore.com
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