What’s It Like to Visit The Vermont Country Store? A Cozy Guide to Fall in Vermont

Nestled in the heart of Vermont’s scenic countryside, The Vermont Country Store is a must-visit fall destination that captures the true charm of autumn in New England.

As the foliage transforms into brilliant shades of red, orange, and gold, this iconic general store becomes a cozy retreat filled with nostalgic products, old-fashioned treats, and hard-to-find treasures.

A visit to The Vermont Country Store in the fall isn’t just about shopping, it’s an experience steeped in traditional craftsmanship, rustic decor, and the timeless joy of the season.

A Vermont Fall Tradition: Visiting the Vermont Country Store

There’s nothing quite like fall in Vermont, and there’s no better place to embrace the season than at The Vermont Country Store in Weston. Known as purveyors of the “Practical and Hard to Find” since 1946, The Vermont Country Store is a beloved New England general store filled with nostalgic charm, heritage brands, and timeless treasures that transport you to a simpler time.

With two locations, one on Main Street in There’s nothing quite like fall in Vermont, and there’s no better place to embrace the season than at The Vermont Country Store in Weston and another in Rockingham, Vermont, this family-run store is owned by Lyman Orton and his sons Cabot, Gardner, and Eliot, representing 7th and 8th generation Vermonters and 4th and 5th generation storekeepers. You can also shop online or flip through their iconic catalog, filled with hard-to-find products, cozy seasonal favorites, and unique gifts.

Fall foliage season makes a visit even more magical. As the Green Mountains light up in fiery hues, The Vermont Country Store becomes a two-story haven of old-fashioned delights, warm flannel, sweet maple treats, and cozy New England spirit.

This isn’t your average country store, it’s a fall destination, a place that draws travelers and locals alike to experience authentic Vermont charm.

Watch the walkthrough: YouTube Video

What You’ll Find at the Vermont Country Store

Stepping into either of The Vermont Country Stores is like entering a slice of timeless Vermont charm. During the fall, the front porch is dressed in colorful pumpkins, gourds, vintage trucks, and touches of patriotic New England decor, instantly setting the scene for a nostalgic and cozy shopping experience.

Upon entering, grab one of their adorable handled carts, complete with a country-style tote bag, perfect for browsing the store’s two floors of treasures.

And don’t miss the old-fashioned Coca-Cola coolers, yes, you can grab a cold soda from the classic machine and sip it as you wander. It’s a small but delightful touch that makes the experience feel like something straight out of a simpler time.

From seasonal home goods to rare finds and Vermont-made treats, The Vermont Country Store is thoughtfully curated and endlessly charming, exactly what makes shopping in Vermont so unforgettable.

The Vermont Country Store is thoughtfully organized into charming sections, making it easy (and fun!) to shop by category. You’ll find dedicated areas for women’s and men’s clothing, bath and body products, toys, pets, and kitchen essentials, along with cozy bedroom linens, classic cleaning supplies, and all your favorite Vermont-made pantry staples, like maple syrup, cheese, crackers, and small-batch dips. Be sure to wander into the Christmas room for seasonal magic all year long, and don’t miss the hidden gem sale room filled with unexpected treasures and nostalgic finds.

Old-Fashioned Candy Counter

One of the most iconic stops inside The Vermont Country Store is the old-fashioned penny candy counter, a nostalgic dream come true for candy lovers of all ages. While prices may have changed since the true “penny candy” days, the spirit remains the same: shelves upon shelves of glass jars overflowing with classic treats from decades past.

You can create your own custom candy bag, mixing and matching from a colorful assortment of goodies like homemade fudge, licorice twists, jawbreakers, caramels, chocolate drops, and so much more. The scent alone will transport you back in time, and whether you’re filling a bag for yourself or putting together a thoughtful Vermont-themed gift, this nostalgic candy section is a must-see.

This is more than just candy, it’s a trip down memory lane in the sweetest way possible.

Nostalgic Gifts and Rare Finds

As the beloved purveyors of hard-to-find products, The Vermont Country Store is known for stocking the items you thought were long gone. From the men’s and women’s departments to the bath and kitchen sections, every corner of the store is packed with old-fashioned favorites that stir up a sense of nostalgia.

Remember Lemon Up Shampoo with the little lemon-shaped cap? Yep, they have it. How about soap-on-a-rope? It’s here too.

You’ll also find classic tablecloths, placemats, and household linens that feel like stepping back into your grandmother’s kitchen. And don’t skip the toy department, it’s a magical mix of vintage-style toys, games, and childhood treasures that will take you right back to simpler days.

Whether you’re looking for a meaningful gift or just want to rediscover the charm of days gone by, this section of the store is full of delightful surprises you won’t find anywhere else.

Home Goods and Cozy Bedding

If you’re a fan of that crisp, fresh feeling from old-fashioned clothesline-dried sheets, then you’re going to love the bedding section at The Vermont Country Store. I buy all my clothesline sheets here, and they’re just like the ones I remember from childhood: soft, sturdy, and oh-so nostalgic. You can shop my favorites here!

Beyond the bedding and table linens, The Vermont Country Store also carries adorable bathroom rugs, retro-style towels, plush pillows, and more, all with a look and feel that harken back to simpler times. Whether you’re refreshing a guest room or just adding warmth to your everyday spaces, their home goods collection is full of comforting, quality pieces with nostalgic flair.

The Vermont Cheese Room: Tasting, Sampling & Delicious Finds

Don’t leave The Vermont Country Store without stepping into the famous Vermont Cheese Room, a cozy corner of the store that’s an absolute treat for food lovers. Here, you’ll find a generous selection of Vermont cheeses, house-made dips, and local gourmet goods, many of which are available to sample on the spot.

From fresh-cut cheeses of the day to beautifully packaged travel cheeses, pantry pastas, and savory spreads, the offerings here are perfect for picnic baskets, entertaining, or bringing a little Vermont flavor back home with you. The sampling counter lets you try before you buy, and the staff is always happy to offer recommendations.

Whether you’re putting together a cheese board, building a gift basket, or simply craving something delicious for the ride home, the cheese room at The Vermont Country Store is a must-visit.

Reduce, Reuse, and Recycle: Natural Vermont Products

Another thoughtful highlight inside The Vermont Country Store is the Reduce, Reuse, and Recycle Department, a section devoted to eco-friendly products, sustainable packaging, and natural Vermont-made goods. It’s a beautiful reflection of the store’s commitment to preserving both New England heritage and the environment.

Here you’ll find everything from all-natural maple syrup and soaps to all-natural cleaning products to recyclable home goods and clever, low-waste household items that fit right into a vintage-style lifestyle. Whether you’re looking to shop more sustainably or just love supporting locally made, natural products, this department is well worth a visit.

Mildred’s Dairy Bar at The Vermont Country Store

After exploring the nostalgic aisles of The Vermont Country Store, don’t forget to stop by Mildred’s Dairy Bar, located just outside the Weston location. This local favorite serves up fresh deli sandwiches made with homemade bread, perfect for a cozy lunch in the Vermont countryside.

Whether you’re in the mood for a warm grilled sandwich or a classic Vermont maple milkshake, Mildred’s is the ideal place to relax and refuel after a day of shopping. Grab your lunch and enjoy it at one of the nearby picnic tables while soaking in the fall foliage or charming New England scenery.

My Favorite Things to Buy at the Vermont Country Store

With so many nostalgic and hard-to-find treasures at The Vermont Country Store, I always have a few go-to favorites I stock up on each time I visit. From cozy home essentials to delicious Vermont-made treats, here are some of the best things to buy when you stop by.

Vermont Cheeses for Entertaining

Their selection of Vermont cheeses is unmatched, and I always bring home a few blocks to create my own vintage-inspired cheese platter. I’ll often style it on an antique board or tray for casual gatherings, and it never disappoints. Explore more in my How to Style a Vintage-Inspired Cheese Board with Local Vermont Finds post.

Mountain Weaver Tablecloths

These beautiful woven tablecloths come in timeless colors and are perfect for both indoor and outdoor styling. I use a light blue one year-round inside our dining room and bring out the red and green version for cozy après-ski moments and Christmas porch gatherings.

Clothesline Sheets

Hands down, my favorite bedding! Their clothesline sheets are crisp, cool, and feel just like the ones I remember from childhood. We use them on every bed in our homes, from the classic white sheets to the charming blue and white pattern.

Cozy Seasonal Extras

On occasion, I’ll also grab a pair of Vermont-made mittens, warm socks, or a knitted hat, especially in the winter. Their maple syrup and candy counter goodies also make perfect gifts (or car snacks!).

These are just a few of the timeless favorites that make my visits to The Vermont Country Store so special, and why I keep coming back, season after season.

Tips for Visiting the Vermont Country Store in Fall

Planning a visit to The Vermont Country Store during fall in Vermont? You’re in for a nostalgic, scenic, and totally unique shopping experience. Whether you stop at the Weston or Rockingham location (or both!), here are a few helpful tips to make the most of your trip.

Weston vs. Rockingham—What’s the Difference?

Both stores offer the same charming selection of old-fashioned products, Vermont cheese, bedding, maple syrup, and more, but the Weston store is the flagship location and has a bit more of that iconic, picture-postcard charm. It’s set right in the heart of town with Mildred’s Dairy Bar, a large porch area with picnic tables, and seasonal decor that’s perfect for fall photos. Rockingham, just off I-91, is easier to access but slightly less quaint in atmosphere.

You’ll find food and samples at both locations, but if you want the full Vermont Country Store fall experience, Weston is my favorite.

Best Time to Visit: Fall for the Charm

There’s truly no better time to visit than autumn. Pumpkins line the front porch, the fall foliage is breathtaking, and the air has that cool crispness that makes flannel and cider feel just right. People linger outdoors, families gather for photos, and it all feels wonderfully Vermont.

Photo Tip: Bring the Flannel!

Each fall, the store sets up adorable photo ops like vintage trucks filled with pumpkins, rustic signs, and scenic backdrops. Bring your flannel, grab a friend or the family, and snap a few Instagram-worthy Vermont shots while you’re there.

Be Ready to Sample

Both the cheese section and old-fashioned candy counter offer generous samples, from dips and crackers to homemade fudge and maple candies. Don’t be shy, sampling is part of the fun.

Keep an Open Mind While Shopping

The women’s clothing section may feel old-fashioned, but that’s the charm! Try on a few things, you might be surprised by what you find. And don’t skip the nightgowns and pajamas, they’re classic, cozy, and totally collectible.

Toy Department = Unexpected Treasures

The toy department is a magical mix of vintage-inspired toys you rarely see anymore. Pick up a favorite as a gift, you’ll delight whoever receives it, guaranteed.

Where to Park

Both stores have free and easy parking, with plenty of space even during busy fall weekends. Just follow the signs when you arrive.

Catalog vs. In-Store: What’s Different?

If you’ve browsed The Vermont Country Store catalog, the in-store experience is similar, but better. You’ll find more seasonal surprises, local displays, and sensory moments that just don’t translate through the pages.

Fall Foliage, Apple Cider, and Country Store Charm

Visiting The Vermont Country Store in the fall is more than a nostalgic shopping trip, it’s a full-sensory autumn experience. As the mountains blaze with color and the scent of warm cider fills the air, you’ll quickly see why this season is so magical in Vermont.

The store itself is just one stop on a journey filled with quaint small towns, scenic foliage drives, and classic New England traditions. Whether you’re leaf-peeping, antique hunting, or picking up local maple goodies, there’s no shortage of charm, and no better time to experience it all than during fall.

From Vintage Market Days Vermont, to scarecrow decorating inspiration, a spooky fall cooking class at Sugar Glider Kitchen School, and beyond, there are so many ways to celebrate the season around here.

Explore More Fall in Vermont Ideas

Browse these cozy Vermont fall blog posts filled with scenic drives, vintage markets, seasonal recipes, and nostalgic decor moments.

A Must-Visit Fall Destination in Vermont

A fall visit to The Vermont Country Store is like stepping back in time, where the beauty of the season and the warmth of tradition come together in perfect harmony.

Whether you’re savoring the flavors of homemade fudge, discovering timeless goods, or simply soaking in the stunning Vermont foliage that surrounds the store, this experience captures the very best of autumn in New England.

As you leave with your bags full of nostalgic finds and your heart full of fall magic, you’ll understand why The Vermont Country Store is a must-visit Vermont destination, and one you’ll want to return to every season.

Plan Your Own Visit to The Vermont Country Store

If you’ve been dreaming of crisp mountain air, vibrant fall foliage, and the cozy charm of an old-fashioned general store, now’s the time to plan your visit to The Vermont Country Store. Whether you stop by Weston or Rockingham, you’ll leave with more than just nostalgic goodies, you’ll carry home a piece of Vermont’s seasonal magic.

Have you visited The Vermont Country Store before? I’d love to hear what you found, what you loved, or what’s still on your wishlist! Share your experience in the comments below or tag me over on Instagram, I’m always excited to see your favorite finds!

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