My dad reminded me about the Old Tavern in Grafton, one of the nation’s oldest operating inns (according to its website) opened in 1801. Another cool thing is it’s part of a nonprofit dedicated to preserving the vitality of rural Vermont communities. Can’t argue with that.
Dad also suggested looking at where Vermont Bicycle Touring (VBT) stays on their trips – which I used to go on as a kid with my parents. Good ideas all.