GRP’s Guide to the Northeast Kingdom
Written by GRP Snow athlete Margie Freed
GRP Athletes training on the highways of the NEK. Photo credit Margie Freed
There’s so much more to Craftsbury and the surrounding area than training, so we have gathered a list of the most commonly visited spots to have fun around town. During the spring and summer months the whole team is training hard but makes it out of the Center every so often. With a little something for everybody we hope you can add some of these places to your Northeast Kingdom bucket list.
Food:
Summersweet Garden Nursery (at Perennial Pleasures) in Hardwick- We love to dress up in fun florals and enjoy trying the many choices of tea flavors under cute sun umbrellas. Though this place is known for its tea, the lemonade is to die for especially on a hot summer day.
The Parker Pie Company in Glover- Wednesday night trivia is one of our go-to activities! The pizza and vibes are great.
The Genny in Albany- A great stop for creemees during a training bike ride.
C Village Store in Craftsbury- Creemees after dinner (beware, they close at 7!)
Blackbird Bistro in Craftsbury- we sometimes need to get out of the rural small town spots and this place is always popping! Everything is delicious but a favorite is the pineapple based spirit free cocktail: Rupert’s Escape.
Front Seat in Hardwick- During the winter we have Front and Center (the satellite coffee shop based at the Craftsbury Outdoor Center) so in the warmer months we stop by the main location. Along with great coffee and pastries, the shop has many awesome clay mugs and dishes.
Activity or Hang:
Monkey House Customs in Stowe- Have you seen some great body art on our athletes? Chances are it’s from this tattoo and piercing shop.
Barr Hill Natural Area in Greensboro- A chill spot to watch the sunset and stars (and even a go-to date spot). Overlooking Greensboro Lake is a nice change of pace from being on Hosmer so much.
Museum of Everyday Life in Glover- This small museum highlights the beauty of life, and is a great option for an activity not centered around food.
Bread and Puppet in Glover- Unique and fun theater performance. There’s not really a way to describe this place, other than that you have to check it out yourself!
The Bijou Theater in Morrisville- $5 Tuesdays are something you can’t beat! What better way to spend a recovery afternoon than watching the latest blockbuster films.
Music on the Common in Craftsbury- We bring picnic blankets, chill vibes, and enjoy local bands play. An awesome evening family activity close to home.