ROLLINSVILLE — Although small and maybe unassuming, Rollinsville has exploded into one of the most popular areas on Highway 119 over the last few years. With everything from made from scratch food to locally distilled and brewed beverages, and so many things in between, it’s not surprising! What was once just a stop on the highway has truly become an all-day-long endeavor if you want it to be.

First in line is Howlin Wind Brewing & Blending, which has been in Rollinsville since 2021 and has brought so much to this community. They do beer incredibly well, but that is certainly not all they have to offer. 

Howlin Wind has consistently provided its patrons with both local and traveling musicians every weekend, as well as community bluegrass picks. In addition to that, they have organized everything from holiday markets, clothing swaps, and food drives to flash tattoo events. 

Inside the brewery, there are also two other businesses. One is Salto coffee, which many of us remember from its time in the building that now provides space for the Nederland General Store. Look for their open sign, because they open before the brewery.

Once you have your beverage of choice, you can meander into the small shop connected to the brewery and shop handmade jewelry, pottery, hats, and more, as they are frequently rotating new art through the store. 

Right outside of the front door, you will see Back on the Train food truck slinging their tasty goods throughout the weekend. The fried oyster mushrooms are insanely delicious and extra points for the mushrooms being locally grown by Mycomindful Mushrooms, which is also located in Rollinsville. Whether you are vegan, vegetarian, or carnivorous, there is something for everyone on their menu, and most everything is made from scratch. A true food gem!

Moving on down the line, next we get to Gold Dirt Distillery. If you are looking for a unique artisan cocktail, look no further. From their signature Lavender Gin to absinthe, everything is distilled locally and guaranteed to impress your taste buds. 

Got some records you want to spin? Bring them into the bar and they’ll throw them on for you. Occasionally on a Friday or Saturday evening you can find some music there, which accompanies their cocktails quite nicely. If you’re there on a Sunday evening, make sure to stop in for karaoke, a very popular event amongst the locals. 

Last, but certainly not least, comes Toss: Wood Fired Eatery. From their delectable house-made sauce to their perfectly curated pizza dough, this is the perfect pizza. Whether you’re a classic cheese or pepperoni guy or more interested in a creative pie, you can’t go wrong. Pizza is just the tip of the iceberg, though. They offer sliders, salad, and rotating seasonal apps, as well as beer and wine. 

On a nice day, they’ll open the garage door, and the views are truly picture perfect. One of my absolute favorite spots to enjoy a day off. In the warmer months, Toss also provides music for their customers. On some weekends in the summer you can see music at Howlin Wind, Gold Dirt, and Toss, all on the same day. 

If you’re lucky, you may get a ride back to the top of the line from one of our local yaks. The latest addition to the ride is a carriage that two can ride in together. Riding off into the sunset pulled by one of these gentle creatures, watching the scenes of Rollinsville, is truly unique to this small mountain community!

One of my favorite ways to close out a day in Rollinsville is to take a quick joyride across the street to Tolland Road. As you cruise the dirt road along the river with 360̊ mountain views, going by structures of times passed, it feels like a time warp.

It’s so easy to spend time in Rollinsville. The local businesses here have created an impeccable vibe. Whether it’s date night, time for a post-hike beverage or even just a solo adventure, Rollinsville is the perfect place to get some of that mountain charm.