36 Hours in St. Johnsbury
Jun 23, 2021 09:57AM ● By Bram Teague
36 Hours in St. Johnsbury
Saturday: Eat and Shop Your Way Through Downtown
St. Johnsbury Farmers Market
The Caledonia Farmer’s Market in St. J has been a local staple since 1972. Strolling through the unique and beautiful produce and handmade goods will be a wonderful start to your weekend in St. Johnsbury. Grab a coffee from Kingdom Coffee Roasters or NEK Coffee while browsing through the many farm stands that are packed full of beautiful produce and flowers grown on local farms. The market is open from 9 AM to 1 PM on Eastern and Pearl streets behind the Star Theater.
Whirligig Brewing
After you visit the farmer’s market head over to Whirligig Brewing. This small-batch brewery uses local ingredients to create its masterful beers. Their malt is sourced from Peterson’s Quality Malts out of Charlotte using locally grown barley and wheat. Whirligig also uses ingredients from local NEK Grains, Champlain Valley Hops, and Whitefield Hop Yards. Enjoy the summer weather out on the patio while you have a beer and delicious food by Wandering Vine VT, LLC. The menu changes weekly and always offers excellent flavors that pair well with Whirligig Brewing beer.
Kingdom Taproom & Table
Another drinks and dining option in downtown St. Johnsbury is the Kingdom Taproom & Table, a passion project of a group of local friends. Kingdom Taproom specializes in local Vermont craft beer on tap. The food menu has locally sourced ingredients and completes a visit to the taproom. Visitors to Kingdom Table absolutely rave about the burger, calling it one of the best they’ve ever had. Other food options popular with locals are their Caesar salad and crispy chicken sandwich.
St. Johnsbury Distillery
Described as a “must-see in St. Jay”, the St. Johnsbury Distillery Taproom & Speakeasy is a fun experience full of unique flavors. They are open all day for shopping, but for food and cocktails on Saturday, stop by between 4 PM and 8 PM. St. Johnsbury Distillery has a flight of their delicious rums including their Maple Rum and Edelflower Rum. The cocktail menu is truly delightful with highlights such as the St. J Sunset made with Pirate Dan’s Vermont Rum mixed with mango puree and grenadine. The food menu is by Supa Spice with many sushi and bowl choices to enjoy.
Shopping on Railroad Street
While you’re eating and drinking your way through downtown St. Johnsbury, make sure to leave time for browsing the adorable shops on Railroad Street. The Moose River Lake and Lodge Store feature curated housewares, jewelry, and an excellent wine selection. The Boxcar & Caboose is a sweet little bookstore and cafe open seven days a week downtown if you’re in need of a few quiet moments during your whirlwind trip of shopping and dining.
Art Exhibitions Downtown
St. J Art on the Street is a public art collaboration and part of the Hey St. J! #getdowntown initiative which is a free, family-friendly performing arts series running through the summer in St. Johnsbury. Look for the NEK Arts Guild Exhibition downtown as well to enjoy a variety of local artworks.
Sunday: Culture, Live Music, and Must-See
Anthony’s Diner
On Sunday morning start with breakfast at local staple, Anthony’s Diner. Anthony’s serves traditional and hearty breakfasts to fill you up before another fun day in St. Johnsbury. https://www.restaurantji.com/vt/saint-johnsbury/anthonys-diner-/
Central Cafe
For those choosing to sleep in, try brunch at the Central Cafe, St. Johnsbury’s upscale cafe. The Central Cafe offers an excellent coffee menu and delicious brunch options such as mushroom or avocado toasts, a salmon bowl, or a breakfast sandwich.
Fairbanks Museum and Planetarium
The Fairbanks Museum and Planetarium is part
natural history museum, history museum, and planetarium. The museum hosts a
permanent collection of over 30,000 eclectic items. It also houses the only
public planetarium in Vermont. This stop will hold the interest of family and
adult visitors alike.
AMP Dog Mountain Concert
Finally round out your visit with an afternoon concert at the Levitt AMP Dog Mountain Concert series running through the summer.
Closing:
St. Johnsbury has plenty of excellent dining, drinks, and entertainment for a quick getaway to one of Vermont’s loviest towns. While you’re visiting St. J consider staying in a local Air BnB, or the Cherry House Bed & Breakfast so that you’re in walking distance to all the downtown area has to offer. There is sure to be something for everyone in your party.
For more information:
