Woodstock, Vermont is often acclaimed as one of the most charming small towns in America and stands out as a true jewel of New England. The historic Woodstock Inn has graced the picturesque village for the past 130 years, offering 142 rooms and earning AAA Four Diamond status. Part of the prestigious Preferred Hotels & Resorts LVX Collection and Historic Hotels of America, the inn has transformed into a top-tier resort while preserving its unique charm and character. The interior design sets a higher standard by combining historical elements with contemporary rustic luxury, setting it apart from similar properties in New England.
The roots of the Woodstock Inn trace back to a tavern established in 1793 on the site, with the original Woodstock Inn, constructed in 1892, known for its grand architecture, 400-foot verandah, and over 100 guest rooms. It attracted affluent visitors who frequented Vermont’s inaugural winter-sports hub, offering lively winter gatherings that captivated cities like Boston and Montreal. The credit for the current inn’s existence goes to financier, philanthropist, and conservationist Laurance Rockefeller, who along with his wife Mary, resided in the Marsh-Billings-Rockefeller Mansion (now a museum).
Mary Rockefeller, the granddaughter of Northern Pacific Railway president Frederick Billings, inherited the estate in 1954 and with Laurance, modernized it for contemporary living. Facing dilapidation in 1967, Laurance purchased and revitalized the Woodstock Inn, incorporating it into his RockResorts brand which included esteemed properties like Caneel Bay, Little Dix, The Lodge at Koele, Manele Bay, and the Grand Teton Lodge.
The Woodstock Inn & Resort underwent a $16.5 million enhancement in 2018, rejuvenating its 142 guest rooms and introducing six new Legacy Suites inspired by the Rockefellers. The premier accommodation is the Laurance S. Rockefeller Suite, offering 880 square feet of luxury featuring custom Federal-era furnishings, a marble entryway, a fireplace-adorned living room, a dining room with a butler’s pantry, a king-sized bed, and a lavish bathroom. The refurbishment also encompassed a redesigned lobby, a cozy library, an enhanced front lawn, and an expanded concierge service.
President Courtney Lowe reveals exciting plans for the property, with the introduction of “Woodstock Outdoors” this summer featuring a range of activities such as golf, fly fishing, falconry, tennis, mountain biking, and the resort’s 3.5-acre Kelly Way Gardens. Experts at the expanded Activity Center can recommend outdoor pursuits tailored to guests’ interests, fostering new hobbies and family traditions.
The Woodstock Inn has long emphasized outdoor experiences, which include the Woodstock Ski Touring Center established in 1970, the Woodstock Racquet & Fitness Club opened in 1986, and a LEED-certified spa facility introduced in 2010. Dining at the inn is an exceptional affair, with the Red Rooster offering fine dining with a focus on local and homemade cuisine, and Richardson’s Tavern providing classic gastropub fare alongside artisanal beverages.
During winter, the Resort remains a sought-after destination with access to Suicide Six Ski Area and a winter sports concierge. Perley’s Pourhouse at Suicide Six is a favorite post-skiing haunt, featuring Vermont craft beer and hearty dishes by a roaring fireplace. At the inn, a cozy game room offers entertainment with activities such as Scrabble, foosball, and vintage pinball machines—a delightful spot to unwind no matter the season.
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