KILLINGTON

Killington exists because of the mountain. The town of 1,407 year-round residents spreads along Killington Road, the access route to the resort that earned the nickname "Beast of the East."

Pickle Barrel Nightclub sits midway up Killington Road and has been the area's primary live music destination since the 1960s. The venue runs three levels of stages, dance floors, and bars, booking touring acts that have included nationally recognized names across hip-hop, jam band, blues, and rock. It operates primarily during ski season and is 21-plus.

The energy here is ski-town after-dark — boots off, drinks up, music loud. The Killington Road corridor is lined with restaurants, bars, and lodges that make up the town's commercial spine. A free shuttle called the Barrel Rider runs within six miles of the venue, keeping the apres-ski crowd moving.

Tip: Pickle Barrel runs a seasonal schedule tied to ski season, roughly late fall through spring. Check their calendar before making the trip — summer shows are not guaranteed.

Neighborhoods: Killington Road • Snowshed Base • Ramshead Base