STAY
Winooski offers no lodgings, but the immediate surrounding area has endless options for every budget and lifestyle. Spend the weekend in foodie paradise in neighboring Essex at The Essex (70 Essex Way, 802-878-1100, www.vtculinaryresort.com, rooms from $169), a popular resort featuring a spa and a variety of gourmet cooking ventures. Classes run $95-$145 for a two-hour session. In Burlington, wake up to the majestic view of Lake Champlain after a night at the Courtyard Burlington Harbor (25 Cherry St., 802-864-4700, www.marriott.com/hotels/travel/btvdt-courtyard-burlington-harbor, rooms from $209), a recent addition to the lively Burlington waterfront. Colchester’s Hampton Inn (42 Lower Mountain View Drive, 802-655-6177, www.burlingtonvt.hamptoninn.com, rooms from $159) offers reasonably priced accommodations in a convenient setting just up the road from downtown Winooski.
DINE
Winooski offers a range of options, but its real strength is creative, casual fare. One of the most popular breakfast and brunch destinations in the Burlington area is Sneakers Bistro (28 Main St., 802-655-9081, www.sneakersbistro.com, breakfast $6.95-$12.95) featuring a variety of delectable originals including a breakfast veggie cheese steak, fried chicken and waffles, and crab cake Benedict. More often than not you can expect a wait for a table. For a quick lunch, Val’s Wild Tomato (135 East Allen St., 802-861-9453, vals.slimdowndesign.com, sandwiches $4-$8.50, closed Sundays) offers sandwiches, salads, and both chicken and pork wings with a variety of sauces. Whether you’re on a budget or not, don’t miss Papa Frank’s Italian Restaurant (13 West Center St., 802-655-2423, www.papa-franks.com, entrees $4.95-$8.75, pizzas $7.25-$18.95) is a local favorite for piping hot pizza and other Italian dishes at low prices. Try the delectable calzones (starting at $5.50).
DURING THE DAY
READER COMMENTS »
View reader comments » Comment on this story »