Travel Guide :: Killington, Vermont

There is nothing better than winter weekends in Vermont! I've been going to Killington since I was a kid and just visited this past weekend. There is so much I love about going North in the winter, but most of all I love being outdoors and enjoying the snow. Whether you're a skier or snowboarder, Killington is one of the best places on the East Coast you can go.

(if you couldn't tell, Brian and I love Burton!)

Where to Stay: Killington Grand Resort Hotel
I've been going here since they opened their doors. They have the best amenities, such as an outdoor heated pool and hot tubs, sauna, steam room, spa, restaurant and lots of cozy fireplaces! They also offer a free shuttle service (or what we like to call the drunk bus, haha) to just about anywhere you'd like to go on the main road. And best of all the resort is at the base of the mountain so you can walk right over to the lifts!

What to Do: Hit the slopes! There is a reason why Killington is called 'The Beast,' it's enormous! Killington has 7 peaks, so there are tons of trails and it's a great mountain for all levels. I've been going to this mountain for over 15 years and haven't gotten tired of it! Make sure you stop at one of the waffle cabins or at the Peak Lodge!

 

If you aren't a skier or snowboarder, there are a ton of other things to do in the area. If you want to experience some other outdoor activities you can go snowmobiling, snowshoeing, snow-tubing, sleigh rides, take a ride on the Beast alpine coaster, mountain biking and so much more!

On the days where it's just way too cold to even be outside, one of my favorite indoor activities is to visit Long Trail Brewery. They also have an outdoor firepit if you want to sit outside. Or you can take a trip to some of the other towns in Vermont. Killington is close to Woodstock (45 min drive) which is a cute, little town that has some good restaurants and quaint shops.

It's also easy to do a day trip to Burlington (another great Vermont town!). It's only about 2 hours away and there are a bunch of fun craft breweries, great restaurants, and the Ben & Jerry's factory is along the way in Waterbury. I spent an afternoon in Waterbury this past trip and had a pretty amazing lunch at Prohibition Pig (their burgers with duck fat fries are to die for!) and we had a great time sampling different VT craft beers at The Reservoir - like beers from The Alchemist (any beer fan will have heard about the coveted Heady Topper), Hill Farmstead (best brewery in the world) and Lawson's (have to try Sip of Sunshine!). I mean, you can't go to VT and not sample some craft beers!

Where to Eat: If you stay around Killington there are a lot of great places to eat.
- Outback Pizza: Great for a laid back night of good pizza, cold drinks and live music. What more could you ask for!
- The Garlic: If you want something a little more upscale, The Garlic has great food and drinks. I'm pretty sure you can smell the roasted garlic from the road!
- Sugar and Spice: A little further down the hill, but they have the best breakfast! It's in a rustic sugar house where they still run the operation on the lower level. Thier signature pancakes are so, so good!
- Prestons: This is the new restaurant at the Killington Grand. I have yet to eat here but loved the old restaurant and the new menu looks amazing. It was packed while we were there, I'm bummed we didn't get to try it!

Other Tips: 
- You can buy a gondola pass to go up the Peak Lodge, so you can enjoy the food and view without having to ski back down the mountain.
- If you're looking for some nightlife, the Pickle Barrel is the place to be. Although be prepared for a pricey cover.
- Vermont is also beautiful to visit in the summer. I have yet to visit during the warmer months as I'm usually down by the beach, but it's on my to-do list!



What's your favorite winter getaway?

Xo C