This Vermont Welcome Center Is Worth a Stop Just for the Views

I love a good road trip, and will forever say yes to a getaway in Vermont. The gorgeous mountain landscape, endless outdoor activities, and delicious regional cuisine make this quintessential New England region one of my all-time favorite destinations. Vermont may be one of the smallest states in our country, but it is packed with hidden gems to discover at every turn, including an amazing little rest stop on Interstate 89. Let me introduce you to the Sharon Welcome Center.

My family and I have taken several road trips through the Green Mountain State and always stop to stretch our legs at the Sharon Welcome Center. This is our favorite pull-off, both for its convenient location and spectacular views. While making required stops at rest areas can often add unwanted time to a road trip, making a detour to this unique Vermont welcome center only adds to the experience. The center is located on the Northbound side of Interstate 89, and can easily be included in your northern travels from New Hampshire or Massachusetts.   

Inside, you will find welcoming volunteers, spotless facilities (always a plus in my book), and lots of information on local attractions and landmarks. But it’s what’s outside that really turns this spot into a road trip destination. The welcome center is perched on a hill, giving way to spectacular views of the mountains. I love to just walk around the premises and take in the scenery. It is also the perfect place for a picnic. There are tables where you can sit and enjoy your lunch. Or you take a few moments to gaze out at the mountains from the comfort of one of the center’s colorful Adirondack chairs. 

The Sharon Welcome Center is also home to Vermont’s Vietnam Memorial. The impressive circular stone structure was the country's first sanctioned Vietnam Veterans’ Memorial. It pays tribute to the 7,236 Vermont soldiers who served in the war. You can find additional Vietnam displays with information and memorabilia inside.

And there is one more thing to check out while you are here. Inside the center is the “Living Machine" exhibit, which will teach you how the rest area uses plants to recycle its wastewater. Fascinating stuff for sure!

The welcome center is, of course, your go-to place for everything Vermont. There are pamphlets on everything from breweries to fishing holes, and the friendly volunteers and staff always offer up the most helpful information and itinerary suggestions. If you time your visit right, you may also catch a good bake sale in action.

The Sharon Welcome Center is open daily from 7:00 AM to 7:00 PM. You can find more information about this fantastic rest area by visiting the Sharon Welcome Center online. When traveling in New England, be sure to also stop at two of my other go-to roadside rest areas: the Traveler Restaurant in Union, Connecticut, and the Johnny Appleseed Visitor’s Center in Lancaster, Massachusetts.