Hardwick is a small northeast kingdom town with deep agricultural roots and a charming downtown. great food, coffee and beer make it a wonderful weekend destination.
Index
1. quick facts
2. coffee/breakfast
3. post office report
4. activities
5. playground report
6. lunch
7. hardware store report
8. drinks/dinner + place to stay
1. quick facts
Population: 3,200
Location: 35 minutes northeast of Montpelier, 1 hour from Burlington
Known for:
- Jumping off point for the Northeast Kingdom
- The Lamoille Valley Rail Trail
- One of Vermont's most recognized farm-to-table food communities
- Deep roots in Vermont's granite industry
Best time to visit:
- Summer (swimming holes + farmers markets)
- Fall (foliage, quieter than the tourist corridor)
Vibe: Real working Vermont town with excellent food
2. coffee/breakfast
Front seat coffee
Front Seat Coffee is a small and welcoming community-driven coffee shop. The team is dedicated to high-quality coffee, amazing baked goods and a warm inviting atmosphere.
3. post office report
A classic example of mid-century federal postal architecture. Likely built in the 1960’s the Hardwick post office is easily within walking distance from downtown.
4. activities
Lamoille Valley Rail Trail
the Lamoille Valley Rail Trail runs directly through Hardwick, offering 93 miles of multi-use trail across the northeast kingdom — flat, converted rail grade makes it an easy ride or walk with serious views of the hills and river corridor on either side
5. playground report
Located at Mackville Pond just a short drive from downtown, this playground is a stunner. Surrounded by trees and the pond you will not find a better playground in Hardwick.
6. lunch
the village restaurant
The Village Restaurant is a great option for lunch. Friendly people, great river views and a huge lunch menu! The hot roast turkey sandwich is a must.
7. hardware store report
The Hardwick Aubuchon has everything you need from hardware essentials to home and garden items like compost and lawn mowers. Worth a visit if you’re in the area.
8. drinks/dinner + place to stay
the Craftsbury Farmhouse
a renovated boutique farmhouse inn in the heart of craftsbury, owned and operated by three sisters whose family has been running the inn for generations. pull up a seat at blackbird bistro for craft cocktails and modern american food and stay the night in unique rooms with modern updates.
