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Mad River Barn

4.5 (258)

Rustic Vermont pub in Mad River Valley serving farm-fresh pub fare, local craft beers, and live music—perfect for skiers, families, and valley adventurers seeking cozy evenings and hearty meals.

Nestled in the heart of Vermont's Mad River Valley, Mad River Barn is a rustic pub and restaurant offering hearty local fare, craft beers, and live music in a cozy, welcoming atmosphere. Perfect for skiers, families, and locals alike, it features pub favorites like smash burgers, farm-to-table mains, and an extensive Vermont beer selection. With indoor and seasonal outdoor seating, it's a hub for dining, drinks, and events just minutes from Sugarbush and Mad River Glen ski areas.

A brief summary to Mad River Barn

Local tips

  • Reserve ahead for the dining room during winter weekends or holidays, as the pub fills quickly with skiers and live music crowds.
  • Opt for local beers on tap or the Maple Old Fashioned cocktail to pair with smash burgers or farm-fresh salads.
  • Visit Thursday evenings for live music in the pub, starting around 5 PM with bands like Good Gravy.
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Getting There

  • Driving

    9-min drive (5.5 miles) from Sugarbush Lincoln Peak; free parking on-site; 4x4 advised in winter snow.

  • Ski Shuttle

    Short shuttle from Mad River Glen (1.7 miles, 3 min); check valley ski bus schedules for $5-10 fares.

  • Walking/Hiking

    30-45 min hike from nearby trails; not recommended in deep snow without gear.

For the on-the-go comforts that matter to you

  • Restrooms
  • Drink Options
  • Food Options
  • Seating Areas
  • Sheltered Areas
  • Television

Discover more about Mad River Barn

Rustic Charm in Mad River Valley

Mad River Barn embodies the warm hospitality of Vermont's Mad River Valley, blending a lively pub upstairs with an intimate dining room downstairs. Located at 2849 Mill Brook Rd in Waitsfield, this veteran-owned spot sources fresh, local ingredients from nearby farms like Neill Farm, ensuring every dish highlights regional flavors. Hearty pub grub meets refined mains in a space that feels like a home away from home, ideal for post-ski gatherings or casual evenings.

Pub & Dining Experiences

Upstairs in the pub, dive into casual favorites such as the smash burger with Neill Farm patty, American cheese, and house Barn Sauce, or the wild mushroom and Swiss burger topped with caramelized onions. Share plates like spinach and artichoke dip with VT goat cheese or baskets of herb Parmesan fries pair perfectly with local Vermont beers on tap and cocktails like the Maple Old Fashioned made with Bulleit Bourbon and VT maple syrup. Downstairs offers a quieter vibe for cast iron chicken or steak frites, both gluten-free options emphasizing local produce and proteins.

Live Music & Events

Thursdays bring live music to the pub, with performances ranging from local bands like Good Gravy to summer sets by Ragged Company. The venue hosts private events from weddings in the pavilion to corporate meetings, with spaces accommodating 20-199 guests. On-site lodging adds convenience for multi-day stays, complete with complimentary hot breakfast. Seasonal outdoor patios expand seating in warmer months.

Family-Friendly & Local Focus

Families appreciate highchairs, kids' menus, and gluten-free choices amid a buzzing yet friendly atmosphere. Commitment to sustainability shines through local sourcing, supporting the valley's farms and community. Open primarily evenings from 4-9 PM Thursday to Saturday, with varying hours, reservations recommended during peak ski season.

Proximity to Adventure

Just 9 minutes from Sugarbush Lincoln Peak and 3 minutes from Mad River Glen, it's the ultimate base for skiing, hiking, or exploring the valley's trails and parks. Whether fueling up before hitting the slopes or unwinding after, Mad River Barn delivers reliable comfort food and Vermont spirit.

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