Sharon Rest Area

I like Vermont rest areas in general. They are clean, safe and offer free coffee (donations recommended as it is a self-​financed program). Among the various rest area in Vermont, Sharon (northbound I-​89, just north of White River Junction) is the best!
It’s spacious and confortable, with tables and chairs inside to relax a bit. Not only they have free coffee here but a choice of herbal and regular tea as well!
There is also what they call the «living machine», a room where various plant-​based basins are forming a water recycling facility for the restrooms.
There is a Vietnam War memorial and a rotating exhibit of locally made (Vermont) products.
There are also a number of fundraising event here where non-​profits are offering various items (boy-​scouts organisations are often here with hot-​dogs, donuts, soda…).
Some vending machine (accepts coins, bills and credit cards) complete the location for quick snacks on the go. Plenty of parking for cars and trucks and the site is accessible for handicapped persons.

Perhaps you’ve just crossed the border, or perhaps nature’s call pulls you off I89 northbound just after exit 1. No matter, you’re driving up the hill to one of America’s most lovely rest areas.
As you admire the view, your heart may sink as you see the Vietnam Veteran’s Memorial, which now lists soldiers in Iraq and Afghanistan who have lost their life. The painful reminder of war is a bittersweet juxtaposition with the valley views.
Free WIFI, honor system coffee, clean restrooms, green technologies are some of the obvious highlights of the facility. Tourist information abounds and a rotating display of Vermont artisans promotes area businesses (I will someday buy Vermont furniture!). There’s plenty of picnic tables, all with great views. It’s the most encouraging reason to stop for a picnic lunch or just to stretch your legs.
Quechee Falls at Exit 1 used to be my favorite stop and walk, but the Sharon rest area is much more restful!

This is one of the prettiest rest areas I’ve ever stopped at AND there’s a coffee honor bar (free coffee, but donate what you can).
Genuis.
Bathrooms are clean. Staff is helpful.