manchester vermont travel guide

10 Things To Do In Manchester: Complete Guide To Vermont's Scenic, Central Small Town

Manchester, Vermont is a unique destination for travelers, with things to do both indoors and out.

From its stunning mountain landscapes and lush river views to its quaint downtown district and historic sites, Manchester is one of the most beautiful towns to visit in Vermont . Located in the state's southwestern region near the Vermont-New York border, it offers visitors a prime getaway destination nestled in the foothills of Equinox Mountain near the Batten Kill River.

Without a doubt, there's much to see and explore in this small town, making this charming hidden gem a wondrous home away from home for any wayward traveler.

Related: 10 Lakes In Vermont You Should Rent A Cabin At ASAP

Top Things To Do In Manchester, Vermont

From the most beautiful hikes to do in Vermont and enchanting riverwalks to scenic drives and lush state parks, here are some of the best things to do during a visit to Manchester.

1 Stroll The Manchester Village Historic District

Take a walk down Main Street to marvel at this small town's most historic sites, including the Soldiers Monument, which is located in front of the First Congregational Church, and the Equinox Golf Resort & Spa , which has origins dating back to the late 18th century.

Parking along Main Street in the Manchester Village Historic District is limited; however, free parking can be found on a variety of side streets.

2 Tour The Hildene, The Lincoln Family Home

Robert Todd Lincoln, the eldest son of Abraham Lincoln (and the only one to survive into adulthood), built this opulent estate with his wife, Mary, at the turn of the 20th century to be used as a summer home.

Visitors can embark on a self-guided tour of the magnificent home, its beautiful gardens, the Hildene Farm, the Pullman railcar (known as Sunbeam), and 12 miles of surrounding walking trails.

• Address: 1005 Hildene Rd, Manchester, VT 05255
• Hours: Open Thursdays to Mondays from 10 am to 4:30 pm
• Cost: $23 for adults and $6 for children ages 6 to 16

There are no advance reservations; guests must check in and purchase tickets upon arrival at the Welcome Center.

3 Visit The Southern Vermont Arts Center

Located at the former Yester House country estate, this art gallery's permanent collection features more than 1,000 items, including etchings, paintings, and sculptures, from renowned 20th-century artists like Luigi Lucioni, Lorenzo Hatch, Ogden Pleissner, Guy Pène du Bois, and Reginald Marsh.

• Address: 860 Southern Vermont Arts Center Dr, Manchester, VT 05255
• Hours: Open Tuesdays to Sundays from 10 am to 5 pm
• Cost: $10 for adults and $5 for children and seniors

4 Stroll The Manchester Riverwalk

Enjoy the charm that is New England with a walk along the Manchester Riverwalk. See the Veterans Memorial near Mill Pond and stroll along the rushing waters for a serene afternoon or evening stroll among the city's wondrous green spaces.

• Address: 5046 Main St, Manchester Center, VT 05255

5 See The Dorset Marble Quarry

Opened in 1785 to provide marble for various architectural features and headstones, among other needs, this landmark holds the distinction of being the oldest commercial marble quarry in the U.S.

Now a popular swimming spot, the area features interesting sculptures carved into the marble and many striking cliffs.

• Address: 1848 VT-30, Dorset, VT 05251
• Hours: Open daily from 9:00 am to dusk, from Memorial Day through Columbus Day
• Cost: $15 per vehicle

In order to visit the Dorset Marble Quarry, guests must register online at DorsetQuarry.com for a QR Code that must be presented upon arrival.

6 Visit The Bromley Mountain Ski Resort

Located about nine miles outside of Manchester in nearby Peru, Vermont, the Bromley Mountain Ski Resort provides exceptional fun in the form of skiing, snowboarding, and much more.

Enjoy a live music event, or explore the Mountain Adventure Park, which features a waterslide, alpine slide, and mini golf course. And the Sun Mountain Flyer and Treetop Adventure Course are perfect for thrill-seekers.

• Address: 124 Bromley Lodge Rd, Peru, VT 05152
• Hours: Open seasonally; visit the website for more details
• Cost: Visit the website for ticket prices

7 Climb To The Top Of Equinox Mountain

One of the most majestic Vermont mountains to visit , Equinox Mountain is the highest peak of the Taconic Range, which towers at 3,816 feet tall . The hike to the summit is quite difficult and features a 6.3-mile out-and-back trail with 2,969 feet of elevation gain, which takes about five hours to complete.

A visitor's center and a monastery are located on the summit. Hike another 0.2 miles up the trail to Lookout Rock for incredible views of Manchester Village below.

8 Embark On The Mount Equinox Skyline Drive

Skip the challenging hike up Equinox Mountain and drive to the summit instead via the Mount Equinox Skyline Drive. Featuring several scenic vistas and stunning mountain views, the road winds through four different forest types, making for an exciting excursion in the Vermont wilds.

• Address: 42 Skyline Drive, Arlington, VT 05250
• Hours: Open daily Memorial Day Weekend to October 31 from 9 am to 5 pm (last vehicles admitted at 4 pm)
• Cost: $25 per driver ($5 for each additional passenger and free for children under the age of 10) from Memorial Day weekend to September 30; $30 per driver ($5 for each additional passenger and free for children under the age of 10) from October 1 to October 31

9 Hike To Lye Brook Falls

For an incredible Vermont hiking trail that leads to a picturesque waterfall , make the trek to Lye Brook Falls, which is perfect for bird watching and reveling in nature. The moderately challenging route features a 4.5-mile out-and-back trail with 921 feet of elevation gain, making it a much easier hike compared to Equinox Mountain.

• Address: Lye Brook Falls Trail, Manchester Center, VT 05255

10 Explore Lake Shaftsbury State Park

While in Manchester, a visit to the Lake Shaftsbury State Park is a must because this Vermont State Park has some of the best views . Located only about 13 miles outside the city, its 84 acres wrap around the beautiful Lake Shaftsbury, making it the perfect spot for swimming, picnicking, hiking, and much more.

• Address: 262 Lake Shaftsbury Rd, Shaftsbury, VT 05262
• Hours: Open daily from 10 am to sunset (May 27 to the second Monday in October)
• Cost: $5 for adults and $2 for children (ages 4 to 14)

11 Best Time To Visit

Manchester is absolutely stunning any time of year; however, the winters can be quite harsh in terms of cold temperatures and snow. But, with its abundance of flourishing trees, the small town is a quintessential fall destination too, making it perfect for autumn leaf-peeping.

For those keen on seeing the vibrant wildflowers erupting across the Vermont countryside, spring is the time to visit; however, just be prepared for lots of mud due to the melting snow. And, it gets especially busy during the summer months, which is a perfect time to partake in some of the area's warm weather activities​​​​​.

12 Best Ways To Get Around

The historic center is easily navigated on foot, and there are a plethora of bike paths in the area, making it easy to navigate without a car. However, when it comes to exploring the attractions found outside the city, such as Lake Shaftsbury State Park and the Bromley Mountain Ski Resort, a vehicle will be needed.

Alternatively, visitors can also opt for rideshare options like Uber , which is usually available in the city most evenings and on weekends.

Related: 10 Quaint Towns In Vermont To Explore This Fall

13 Where To Eat

Wondering where to eat in Manchester? Try these local dining spots.

Up For Breakfast

• Address: 4935 Main St, Manchester Center, VT 05255

Nipper's Cafe

• Address: 4645 Main St, Manchester Center, VT 05255

The Marsh Tavern

• Address: 3567 Main St, Manchester, VT 05254

Manchester House of Pizza

• Address: 351 Depot St, Manchester Center, VT 05255

The Silver Fork

• Address: 48 W Rd, Manchester, VT 05254

The Copper Grouse

• Address: 3835 Main St, Manchester, VT 05254

Mulligan's of Manchester Restaurant & Pub

• Address: 3912 Main St, Manchester, VT 05254

Haig's Restaurant & Sports Bar

• Address: 4566 Main St, Manchester Center, VT 05255

Related: These Are The Quirkiest Roadside Attractions You Can Find In Vermont

14 Where To Stay

Manchester has plenty of accommodations at every price point.

Budget-Friendly Hotels

Four Winds Country Motel

• Address: 7379 Main Street, Manchester, VT 05254
• Amenities: Outdoor pool, room service, and free parking

The Manchester View

• Address: 77 High Meadow Way & VT-7A, Manchester, VT 05255
• Amenities: Outdoor pool and free parking

Mid-Tier Hotels

Hampton Inn and Suites Manchester

• Address: 4519 Main Street, Manchester, VT 05255
• Amenities: Indoor pool, free parking, fitness center, and business center

Reluctant Panther Inn & Restaurant

• Address: 17-39 West Road, Manchester, VT 05254
• Amenities: Complimentary breakfast and fireplace

Upscale Hotels

Kimpton Taconic Hotel, An IHG Hotel

• Address: 3835 Main Street, Manchester, VT 05254
• Amenities: Outdoor pool, restaurant, room service, free parking, valet parking, fitness center, and bar/lounge

The Equinox Golf Resort & Spa

• Address: 3567 Main Street Route 7a, Manchester, VT 05254
• Amenities: Water sports facility, spa and wellness center, restaurant, room service, tennis, indoor pool, fitness center, bar/lounge, and bicycle rental

15 Tips To Know When Visiting

When it comes to visiting Vermont for the first time, there are a few things to know to make a Manchester getaway that much better. For starters, no matter which time of year a visitor chooses to vacation in the state, it can be cool with a chance of rainfall, so pack layers and always keep an umbrella handy.

Secondly, the region is an outdoor enthusiast's wonderland, so be prepared to enjoy much time spent in nature.

Related: 10 Most Relaxing Vermont Getaways In Charming Inns And B&Bs

16 How To Spend The Perfect Day In Manchester, Vermont

No matter what time of year a visitor opts to visit Manchester, the perfect 24 hours can easily be spent relishing the state's wondrous natural attractions. After a nourishing breakfast, stroll the Manchester Village Historic District, seeing the historic statues and quaint shops lining the main street.

Walk along the Manchester Riverwalk, and be sure to visit the nearby Hildene, The Lincoln Family Home, and Southern Vermont Arts Center to learn more about the area's rich history and arts.

After a hearty lunch, spend the remainder of the day exploring the many natural wonders the city and surrounding region have to offer, including the Dorset Marble Quarry, Lye Brook Falls, Lake Shaftsbury State Park, and Equinox Mountain, the summit of which can be accessed on foot or via car for a Vermont vacation unlike any other.

• Skip to primary navigation
• Skip to main content
• Skip to primary sidebar
• Skip to footer

A Complete Guide to Manchester Vermont | Eating, Activities, Hotels, & More

Travel , Vermont

Manchester Vermont is located right in the Green Mountains.  It’s perfect for a romantic getaway, a relaxing/rejuvenating weekend, shopping, or folks who are into outdoorsy action! 

The “small town” vibe is definitely there.  Some of the downtown shops close before 4pm on the weekends and restaurants close around 9. 

However, the scenery is absolutely beautiful, and there’s so many options for things to do in Manchester VT (unlike ski lodges where if you don’t ski you’re basically sitting around the whole time).  It’s a breathtaking location any time of year!

Manchester Vermont is a small town located in Northern Vermont about equidistant from New York City and Montreal. It’s hometown America at its best- quintessential rural New England charm on the edge of Lake Memphremagog with farming, hunting, fishing, skiing nearby.

If you want to escape the hustle of city life and spend some time with nature, this might be just the place for you.

Getting To Manchester VT

There’s no easy way to get to Manchester Vermont, at least from Massachusetts.  The drive took about 4 hours, 3 of which were windy, mountainous backroads. 

We drove up late on Friday night after work, and it actually started snowing on the way.  Not the most relaxing few hours for the driver!

Definitely learn from my mistakes and plan accordingly; if you’re not used to driving in these types of conditions, drive to Manchester Vermont in the middle of the day in clear weather.

The roads get a bit treacherous at night. Otherwise, the drive isn’t too bad, though you may lose service during certain points.

Manchester is a really easy trip from Boston, New York City and Montreal— the Manchester Airport (5 miles away) has flights on Jet Blue and United.

There are two buses daily from Burlington , which takes about an hour each way to get here, and you can rent cars at both airports as well.

As for getting around town, there’s no public transportation but plenty of taxis if you don’t want to deal with driving or parking…and it’s walkable enough that if your bags aren’t too heavy it might be more fun than dealing with traffic/parking/etc anyways!

Manchester VT Hotels:

There are actually quite a few hotels in Manchester Vermont. Here are some of the ones I’ve stayed in and personally loved!

The Kimpton Taconic:

One of my favorite hotels in Manchester Vermont is definitely the Kimpton Taconic. It’s super upscale and pretty large, with great views and a woodsy vibe, but it’s still affordable.

The beds are comfy, the hotel is filled with fireplaces, the fresh pine smell is super rustic and cozy, but there’s somehow an upscale vibe that feels just about as trendy as Vermont can get. 

I spent most of my time in the hotel reading in the library room (there’s actually tons of good books and comfy chairs, and it was pretty quiet during my stay), hanging out by the outdoor fire pit, and saying hi to the MANY dogs staying there – it’s possibly the most dog friendly hotel I’ve ever heard of.

Related: 24+ Fun & Affordable Things To Do In Salem MA

As an added bonus, the staff was over the top friendly!  It really felt like walking into a family owned resort.  They went out of their way to accommodate us (they rushed up toothpaste as soon as I realized I forgot it) and seemed to be available 24/7 for literally any issue.

The Kimpton Taconic is definitely one of the better upscale hotels in Manchester Vermont. If you want a true Vermont vacation yet want to be a bit pampered, check out the Taconic.

The Kimpton Taconic Hotel is a budget-friendly hotel in a perfect location for exploring the state of Vermont. The hotel is minutes from famous attractions such as Historic Downtown Manchester, Six Flags New England and the Appalachian Trail.

Click here to check out the details.

The Equinox Resort

Another great option for hotels in Manchester Vermont is the Equinox Resort. This is a well-known Manchester VT resort that’s a bit more opulent, though it isn’t as new as the Taconic.

The Equinox Resort is situated on over 200 acres of land, with beautiful trails and a golf course. The resort consists of traditional New England inns and cottages.

It also offers more luxurious lodging options such as the Saratoga Springs or Essex Ridge Lodges, as well as a horse ranch that features both trail rides and skiing.

This luxury golf and spa resort is perfect for someone who wants a truly relaxing vacation. The resort offers 5+ restaurants and bars, as well as an outdoor fire pit.

The rooms themselves are gorgeous! Many of the units have fireplaces and are decorated in opulent, vintage decor, however the spa is really what the Equinox is known for.

Wilburton Inn

The Wilburton Inn is a bit further out from downtown. It’s a gorgeous mansion with a lot of property.

The Wilburton Inn is a bit more affordable than the previous hotels, yet it’s still super upscale. I think this is a great option for anyone who needs to save a few dollars but still wants a great vacation!

The views are truly why people come to the Wilburton. This inn might have some of the best views in all of Manchester Vermont!

However, expect to have a quiet vacation in, unless you’re up for driving to the downtown. Uber is scarce in the Manchester VT area.

Hotel Mountain View:

Hotel Mountain View is located on the outskirts of Manchester area close to the University of Vermont, Lake Champlain and downtown Burlington. It also includes a seasonal outdoor pool, indoor pool as well as hot tub.

This Manchester VT hotel is often used as a site for conferences and meetings. The hotel has many amenities such as tennis courts and complimentary water. It also offers free breakfast buffet daily. Hotel Mountain View has been rated as one of the best hotels in Vermont by many locals!

Manchester Vermont Restaurants:

Surprisingly, Manchester Vermont has quite a few fun restaurants. However, you definitely need to know where to go.

In the winter, many of the downtown Manchester VT restaurants close quite early, so you should check the hours ahead of time.

The Copper Grouse :

The Copper Grouse Restaurant in Manchester, VT is located near the University of Vermont and downtown Burlington. The restaurant serves dinner as well as Sunday brunch.

Okay, so I’ll be honest – I ate quite a few meals at The Copper Grouse in the Taconic.  But this wasn’t just because it was right downstairs – it’s seriously some of the best food in Manchester VT.

The Copper Grouse Restaurant has been serving exceptional meals since 1983. Widely regarded throughout the area for its culinary expertise, The Copper Grouse consistently receives high ratings in reviews from locals.

The Espresso Martinis are AMAZING and there’s a huge selection of wine.  I tried the Canelloni, the House Salad, and the Cheese Board (a selection of local cheeses, meats, and fresh bread – try it!). 

I ordered Eggs Benedict for brunch on Sunday and it was – no joke – the best Hollaindaise sauce I’ve ever tried.  I’m super picky about my Benedict, so based on that alone I 100% recommend it.

Overall, we loved the Copper Grouse because unlike many other restaurants in Manchester VT, it’s open almost all the time! The hours are amazing.

Check out their seasonal specials, grilled swordfish steak, fresh catch seafood platter or steamed mussels with spicy tomato sauce for some yummy choices.

Click here to check out reviews.

The Perfect Wife :

While The Perfect Wife is the upscale restaurant portion serving fresh Manchester Vermont food (such as Duck, Filets, and fresh Fish), The Other Woman is the tavern portion of the building. Both are great!

The tavern serves more casual fare such as sandwiches and burgers, with a pretty extensive drink list. 

There’s oftentimes popular Vermont live music on the tavern side as well.  It’s a cool mix for a night out!

The Chop House :

Only open for dinner, the Chop House is one of Manchester’s best steakhouses. 

There’s a gorgeous woodsy vibe inside with a large fireplace.  The food is high-end with an emphasis on meat (of course) and seafood.

Seasons Restaurant :

Although I’ve only been to Seasons in the winter, the outdoor patio and fire pit look like they’d be awesome in the summer!  They’re open year-round for lunch and dinner. 

The menu is a mix of casual sandwiches and burgers and more gourmet “seasonal” fare – I was a fan of the mushroom raviolis.

Up For Breakfast :

A super local little breakfast spot, Up for Breakfast has some really yummy classic omelets, pancakes, and breakfast sandwiches, all for a great price.  It’s a great nook to check out if you want to really get into the Manchester culture!

The Only Game in Town – Woodstock Pizza

Since 1972, “The Only Game in Town” has been serving pizzas to the hungry clientele of Manchester Vermont. Rolling Stone Magazine named the chicken wings from here as the best in all of New England!

River Street Pub & Brewery

This bar and grill is famous for their delicious brews and burgers. Their most popular burger is called “The Juicy Lucy” which is a bacon cheeseburger with cheese stuffed inside it! It’s served on toast instead of a bun.

This restaurant can be packed at any time of the day or night, so be prepared to wait for a table if you go during peak hours! The River Street Tavern is famous for having a very relaxed and casual atmosphere.

Things To Do In Manchester VT:

There are so many great things to do in Manchester VT! If you aren’t sure where to start, I recommend that you head downtown.

The Manchester Vermont downtown area is really adorable and boasts a bunch of different restaurants and shops. The small-town New England feel is something you can’t miss!

Overall, Manchester VT has one of the prettiest little village greens you’ll ever see (the kind where the town hall is located), a “downtown” (really just three blocks) with shops and restaurants, and a really nice mix of small-town living and contemporary architecture.

The Manchester VT  outlets are on of the biggest draws around here!  There’s all your traditional New England Preppy stores like Kate Spade, Vineyard Vines, Patagonia, and Brooks Brothers, as well as a lot of trendy brands and household goods stops.

If you’re looking for things to do in Manchester VT, shopping will be your most popular answer.

The prices were actually really good, even compared to outlets near me. I love that this is such a big activity here – Manchester is one of the best New England winter getaways for non skiers like me.

The second main attraction in Manchester is skiing. There are many different ski slopes that are near the town.

Bromley is only a few minutes away and Stratton Mountain is about 19 miles from downtown Manchester.  There’s a few ski rental shops right in the downtown as well.  Most Manchester hotels (including the Taconic) have ski packages that can save you quite a bit.

Even though none of the Manchester VT hotels are exactly on a mountain, it still seems like skiing is one of the best most popular things to do in Manchester VT, probably just because it’s Vermont.

The ski season begins in December and ends in March. There are also several cross country skiing areas located close by.

I hiked in Manchester Vermont this past weekend and had the time of my life. The trail itself was very scenic, and it reminded me of what I imagined Vermont to be like from watching movies. Charming, tranquil, beautiful.

There are a few good hikes that I recommend to anyone who’s planning on coming out here for a visit:

The Equinox Preservation Trust is apparently the mountain to hit if you’re into hiking.  There’s a lot of wildlife and it’s super close to downtown making it easy to do even just for a morning.

I didn’t get a chance to go, but it’s very close to downtown Manchester VT (like most of the Manchester Vermont hotels) so it’s easy to get to.

Newton’s Ridge Trail is the one that I did and it was great! It’s about 5 miles long but there are trails that branch off so you can shorten your distance depending on how much you want to do. It was breathtaking at certain points and not too difficult even for someone who isn’t much of an outdoors person like myself.

Dill Field is a short little hike of about 2 miles that goes over some bridges and through different forest areas until you get to the rock formations. The whole time that I was hiking, I kept thinking, “who in their right mind would build something like this?” And then I got to the end of it and saw how beautiful it was, and I understood why. You have 360 degree views of Manchester Vermont from up there!

Manchester Pond is actually very complicated to find so someone who isn’t an experienced hiker/backpacker might not enjoy themselves with the amount of effort involved, but if you go during daylight hours and start out early in the morning you should be fine. There are two trails here that branch off, one that goes around the pond and another further up to a saddle. The trail isn’t too difficult but it can get slippery so I wouldn’t recommend doing this hike in inclement weather.

The Shelter Rock hike is going to be a little bit longer than other hikes that you might want to do while you’re here since it’s about 7 miles long overall, but if you have the time then definitely try hiking out there! You’ll get some great views of Manchester Vermont from various places along the way.

Specialty Food Shops & Farm Stands:

There is a small shopping center in Manchester, VT. It’s an interesting mix of a wide variety of shops and services from the standard convenience store to the local butcher shop and cheese shop, all located conveniently within about half a mile of each other.

Tucker Brook Farm

This farm sells its own milk directly off their site along with dairy products such as yogurt, cottage cheese, cream and butter. They also sell meat (your basic beef products) and they do catering for events. 

Crisp Mountain Beef

Crisp Mountain Beef is an artisan butcher that makes sausage from locally sourced meats with spices they make themselves. They offer free cooking classes on how to cook your steak using only salt and pepper as necessary seasonings. Cost: $20 per person, reservations required.  Oh, and their meat is worth every cent.

This is a make-your-own sandwich shop that also sells its own bread products. The sandwiches are pretty much the same as Subway prices, but quality is a step above Subway’s #6… #1 being Subway of course.

They offer many options with regards to what you can put on your sandwich or wrap, including vegetarian selections such as hummus in lieu of mayonnaise and artichokes in lieu of chicken breast. In addition to their store front location, on Memorial Drive they have a delivery service for businesses in the area that want to order lunch for their employees (call ahead ordering). 

The Green Thumb

This place offers fresh vegetables, herbs and plants that are super yummy and fresh!

The Hydrangea Company

This cute little spot sells all kinds of hydrangeas, from the basic blue or pink to the more advanced purple and maroon varieties. They also sell colors that match these hues like peach and yellow (but those are just pinks with different names). The store is quaint, but don’t let its size fool you; they have a great selection of plants for sale. 

Bedford Hill Farms

This is one of Manchester’s three bakeries. Bedford Hill Farms specializes in sour cherry pies. It’s not the only place that sells sour cherry pies, but it is one of the few places that sells fresh sour cherries year round (not just during peak season). 

The Mercier Orchards & Produce Stand

This orchard specializes in apples, both cider and eating apples. They also sell cherry pie filling (they make a mean sour cherry pie), jams and jellies, gourmet popcorn, maple syrup and sugar on snow (just like you would except sugar to be served if you were at a ski resort lodge). The store itself is small but packed full with all kinds of goodies. 

Sugar Maple Farmhouse Baking Company

This place has the largest selection of baked goods (besides Bedford Hill Farms) in Manchester Center, VT. Custom cakes are a specialty here along with other pastries and desserts that will make your mouth water just from looking at them on display (samples are encouraged). 

The  Vermont Summer Horse Show Festival is huge in Manchester! There’s also an annual road race and a fly fishing festival in the summer season. 

The Manchester Music Festival is a big event is August showcasing a variety of artists in different genres and multiple cuisines. 

In the fall, there’s tons of Maple festivals, plus the foliage itself is enough of a reason to visit.  There’s quite a few day-long Christmas festivals in December as well.

Visit the Lincoln Family Home :

The Hildene Estate is a historic house museum in Manchester, Vermont. The estate was originally a country home of Robert Todd Lincoln, Abraham Lincoln’s oldest son. It was built in 1887.

The Hildene Estate is Abraham Lincoln’s only child’s home that offers inside and garden tours.  The house and grounds are really beautiful (and historical) any time of year but the flowers are especially amazing in the spring!

Lye Brook Falls :

One of Vermont’s prettiest and largest falls, the area has a really straightforward trail that’s great for families.  It’s incredibly beautiful! 

Try to visit after a rainfall if possible to get the best effect. It’s definitely one of the coolest things to do in Manchester VT if you’re interested in nature. I think this would be a great activity after the Manchester VT outlets to balance out the day (you get shopping and nature).

Once you get outside of town , there’s enough to do to keep you busy for months— the attractions include hiking in the Green Mountains, skiing at Bromley Ski Area or Burke Mountain Resort, boating on Lake Memphremagog (the largest lake in Vermont), downhill and cross country mountain biking at Kingdom Trails near Mt Mansfield State Forest, kayaking/canoeing on Norton Pond…and one of my personal favorites: playing disc golf at Camp Stark.

There are also numerous state parks nearby including Bolton Valle, Charlotte –Ware River, Mount Snow, and Smugglers Notch.

Manchester Vermont definitely surprised me by how gorgeous yet cozy it was!  It’s way up there on my list of favorite New England winter getaways .

The Manchester VT outlets were especially fun and are a great additionally activity to get away from the traditional skiing destinations. If you haven’t been, put it on your New England travel list for sure.

Visiting Manchester VT During The Seasons:

According to the locals here, there is no bad season for visiting Manchester Vermont. With the area’s fresh air and gorgeous trees, you can experience the best of all seasons in one day.

From April to June, the weather consists of warm days with cool nights making it ideal for hiking and cycling.

Come July and August when summer arrives full swing, Manchester VT becomes a place that is great for canoeing or rafting on Deerfield River while having fun under sunny skies.

Autumn is also another season where time slows down as leaves start turning brown releasing their fragrance into the air making your stay in Manchester VT an unforgettable experience.

Lastly, winter is truly peaceful and is perfect for anyone who wants a cozy vacation with a little side action if you’re a skier. 

In addition to all the natural beauty there are many fun events held year round including music festivals, farmers markets and art openings just to name a few.

The music festival in town hosted by the Woodstock Vermont Arts Center takes place on the third weekend of July and features a wide variety of musical acts from all over the country. There are local restaurants, breweries and art galleries for people to enjoy when they come into town for this event.

Another popular event is the Rockin 4 Rhett benefit concert that benefits children with cancer who live locally to Manchester. This event is held at Mcvean’s Pub and had a large turnout last year with praise coming from concertgoers about how great it was that they chose to host such an amazing even.

Parking In Manchester VT

Parking is very limited in downtown Manchester. There are two parking garages, both within easy walking distance to the center of town (the Opera House, Stearns Block, etc).

Sunset Street Garage: This garage has the most parking spots; the downside is it costs $2 for every 30 mins of use. The bottom floor is also used as a hardware store.

Sunset and Whetstone Building Parking Lot: This parking garage is smaller but is much cheaper, if you’re able to get a spot, and is still close to downtown.

Nelson’s Alley: This one-way street that leads into the lot can be tricky to navigate if you’re unfamiliar with it . It’s another small lot that tends to fill up quickly especially during events at Memorial Auditorium next door.

Otherwise, you can definitely find lots of street parking in the area. I recommend getting a hotel within walking distance, since Ubers and taxis are super scarce.

Fun Facts About Manchester VT

Not convinced? Here are some of my favorite facts about Manchester Vermont that will definitely make you want to book a trip!

The town of Manchester Vermont is a small town with a population of just over 3,000 and covers an area of 5.8 square miles. The major geographical landmarks in the town are the surrounding mountains and the West Branch River.

The land was originally home to Native Americans from more than 10,000 years ago until settlers moved into the region in 1831. It’s a relatively new town and is still small and quaint!

Manchester Vermont has an abundance of natural beauty that includes lakes and rivers, maple sugar woods, cedar swamps, and old-growth forests.

In addition to Manchester’s picturesque landscapes, it also has many different hiking trails that are perfect for long walks or hikes. There are six mountain peaks within walking distance from downtown Manchester Vermont which provide breathtaking views of the countryside.

Overall, we loved visiting Manchester Vermont!

Manchester VT has been attracting vacationers for more than a century, first becoming a getaway spot for wealthy Americans from the East Coast and then later on attracting Canadian visitors.

It’s still a popular summer vacation destination due to its proximity to Montreal & New York City – although there are year round residents here too!

There’s lots of activities and attractions in the area including mountain biking, skiing (mountain and cross-country) boating, hiking , fishing…and endless autumn leaf peeping.

The town is small with few chain stores or restaurants but has plenty of local shops and eateries worth checking out in “downtown” Manchester (really just three side streets).

If you’re looking for a small town vibe, Manchester VT is a great place to visit during any of the four seasons. 

Reader Interactions

Leave a reply cancel reply.

Your email address will not be published. Required fields are marked *

June 30, 2018 at 3:30 am

I am so looking forward to visiting Manchester in a few weeks! Thanks for the tips 🙂

17 of the Best Things to do in Manchester, Vermont

By Author Gabe Schatz

Posted on Published: February 23, 2024

Growing up 30 minutes south of Manchester, Vermont, I’ve spent my fair share of time exploring this gorgeous part of the state. As a kid, I remember weekly trips to the Manchester Farmers Market, eating wood-fired pizza from Sam’s, and hiking to Lye Brook Falls, a trail of local fame.

Even with a small population of just over 4,000 people, there are plenty of things to do in Manchester, Vermont; the town’s renowned local businesses and fashion outlets, not to mention the plentiful options for dining out, ensure that Main Street is never empty.

Good food and great shopping, plus plenty to do both inside and out make Manchester a perfect location for day trips or longer visits, so today, I’m sharing the best things to do in Manchester, Vermont, from the perspective of a local.

Table of Contents

Cool things to do in Manchester, Vermont

Visitors to Manchester will find no shortage of sights to explore, trails to hike, or stores to frequent.

Whether staying for an afternoon or a week, this small town has plenty to offer, from historical sights and local haunts to designer outlets and authentic Vermont creemees.

Ready to explore one of Southern Vermont’s most vibrant communities? Let’s explore the best things to do in Manchester, VT.

Explore the Southern Vermont Arts Center

The narrow drive leading up to the Southern Vermont Arts Center (SVAC) winds past a large field filled with eye-catching metal sculptures.

A 20-foot-tall chrome giantess watches visitors approach from her grassy lawn, and a torso-less pair of bronze legs languish in the shade as you approach the top of the hill where the galleries await. 

Amid meadows scattered with many more strange sculptures sit a cluster of white buildings containing seasonal exhibitions of artwork as well as a permanent collection.

While the outdoor sculpture park is free to explore, the galleries charge a $10 admission fee for adults and $5 for students and seniors. Children under 10 enter for free. 

SVAC also offers multiple classes and workshops for kids and adults alike, as well as camps for kids and teens. Their current list of classes and workshops can be found on their website.

SVAC is open Tuesday-Sunday from 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. and is closed on Mondays.

Hike the Equinox Preserve

Some of the best hiking around Manchester can be found a short drive from the town center. The Equinox Preservation Trust is a 914-acre preserve that covers a large chunk of Mount Equinox.

Trails on the preserve range from leisurely to intense, but the hardest trails have the best payoff, leading to the summit which offers a stunning view of the surrounding countryside. 

For a more relaxing walk, try the loop around Equinox Pond. This walk is shorter and flatter than some of the other hiking on the preserve, and the scenic banks of the large pond make for a perfect early-morning stroll; the steam rising off the water on a summer morning is nearly enough to rival the view from the mountain top. 

Also Read: The Best Things to do in Bennington, Vermont (just 30 minutes south of Manchester)

Visit Hildene: The Lincoln Family Home

Hildene is a large estate in Manchester, originally commissioned by Abraham Lincoln’s son, Robert Todd Lincoln, and his wife Mary.

The Hildene Estate alone could easily fill a day’s worth of activities; the manor itself is massive, with a deep history to delve into, and can be explored in guided tours (reservations required) or individually. 

After seeing the manor, step out into the beautifully maintained and vibrant gardens, venture out onto the 12 miles of trails woven across the sweeping grounds, and take a walk to both the Hildene Farm and the Dene Farm to see pet goats, sheep, and cows. 

Be sure also to save time for the Pullman Car, Sunbeam, a unique exhibit featuring a restored Pullman Car from the era during which Robert Todd Lincoln was president of the Pullman company.

Hildene is open Thursday through Monday from 10 a.m. to 4:30 p.m. Admission is $23 for adults and $6 for children under 16. Children under 5 enter for free.

Explore Northshire Bookstore

Northshire Bookstore is the bookstore that I’ve come to compare all others to — low ceilings and warm lights give it a cozy atmosphere, and plentiful shelves filled with eager spines clutter up the wide rooms.

The small café attached to the store keeps shoppers caffeinated while they flip through the pages of new and used books and fills the whole store with the smell of coffee and pastries. Without many windows, time seems a foreign concept as you lose yourself between the shelves. 

Of course, Northshire Bookstore isn’t content to just be a great bookstore — there are toys for all ages, Vermont-themed gifts, novelty items, local jewelry and clothing, records, CDs, DVDs, cards, gift bags, wrapping paper, and probably much more tucked away in some nook or alcove that I have yet to discover. 

Be a Kid at Pastime Pinball

Pastime Pinball is a winning combination between a museum and an arcade.

Upon entering, visitors are greeted by the clatter and ring of dozens of pinball machines. Unlimited play costs $25 at the door ($18 for kids under 13) and gives you access to 66 beautifully maintained pinball machines set to free play.

The machines are organized by decade, with games from as early as 1947 going all the way up to the late 2000s.

Even as a member of the generation who grew up after the heyday of arcades, I found myself nostalgically and frantically playing pinball tie-ins with the movies of my childhood — the Spider-Man and Lord of the Rings machines were the standouts for me, as they shouted out tinny 8-bit lines from the films while you played. 

On the second floor, a snack bar serves drinks and food, as well as alcoholic beverages, and there is an assortment of several more classic arcade games to peruse. 

Pastime Pinball is open Thursday-Saturday from 12 p.m. to 7 p.m. and on Sundays from 12 p.m. to 6 p.m.

Visit the Farm Animals North Meadow Farm

A short drive from the center of Manchester is North Meadow Farm . Primarily a dairy farm, North Meadow’s store, nestled at the base of a silo, is filled with cheese, eggs, milk, jam, and a freezer full of bacon for sale. There’s even a freezer full of ice cream for sale, with a do-it-yourself scoop and a stack of cones beside it. 

The farm offers guided tours on the weekends from 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. and self-guided tours on Mondays and Tuesdays. Admission is $10 for adults and $5 for kids 3 and up. 

When we visited we spent the day meeting some very sleepy pigs, a bantam rooster who could only be described as a diva, a rabbit named Jumping Joey, some young cows who still stood on wobbly legs, and one slightly disgruntled alpaca.

All the animals were friendly and most of them were eager to sidle up to the fence for a scratch behind the ears.

The area for visitors to explore isn’t very large, but North Meadow is the perfect place to bring animal-loving kids for an afternoon of barnyard petting while stocking up on some organic produce.

The farm store is open 7 days a week from 6 am to 9 pm. Guided tours are offered every day except Wednesdays, between 10 am and 6 pm.

Take a dip in Benson’s Hole

After a day of hiking, biking, and driving around Manchester, Benson Hole is the perfect spot to cool off. This secluded swimming hole on Bourne Brook is a favorite of locals.

The trail to Benson’s Hole can be found just off Glenn Road in Manchester— park near the small bridge immediately after turning onto the dirt access road for Lye Brook Falls.

The trail is on the right side of the road just past the bridge; after a short walk through the woods, you’ll find yourself next to a wide pool with deep areas to swim and shallow spots to wade or dip your feet.

The bottom of this swimming hole is pretty rocky, so wear water shoes or sandals when you visit.

Hike to Lye Brooke Falls 

Thanks to its picturesque falls, the Lye Brook Falls hiking trail is one of Manchester’s most popular hiking destinations.

The hike to the falls is 2.3 miles with a roughly 900-foot elevation gain. The reward at the end of the trail is a spectacular view of one of Southern Vermont’s best waterfalls. Read more in our Lye Brook Falls Trail Guide.

Ride the Marble Rail Trail

Manchester’s bike and walking paths might be the best way to see the surrounding countryside at a slower pace.

Trails like the Marble Rail Trail lead through the woods, over rocky gulleys with trickling streams at the bottom, and through rolling fields where horses munch their hay as you ride by.

The paths are mostly flat and easy to ride, with a few exceptions (I recommend walking when you see the sign for Cardiac Hill). The Manchester Rec Path is the trail that goes through downtown and is part of a larger 5-and-a-half-mile loop around the town of Manchester. Trail maps and more information can be found here .

Check Out the Manchester Music Festival

If you happen to find yourself visiting Manchester during summer, you might just get a chance to attend the Manchester Music Festival.

This summer festival is a celebration of classical chamber music. It was started in 1974 by violinist Carol Glenn and pianist Eugene List. The festival offers multiple events over six weeks in July and August, and a young artists program that focuses on helping burgeoning young musicians learn the art of chamber music.

Pricing and event schedules can be found on the Manchester Music Festival website .

Stock up on Fresh Goodies at Manchester Farmer’s Market

Every Thursday during the summer, from 3-6 p.m., local vendors gather in downtown Manchester for the Farmer’s Market .

Local farmers and artisans set up a wide variety of wares, including homemade donuts, hand-crafted jewelry, honey, jam, and plenty of fresh vegetables and organic meats.

There is always live music when I’ve gone to the Farmers Market, so when you’ve had your fill of shopping, pull up a patch of grass and enjoy the entertainment (preferably with a donut and a glass of freshly squeezed lemonade).

Visit Earth Sky Time Farm for Fresh Bread and Produce

Earth Sky Time is an organic farm, bakery, and concert venue. Despite the 30-minute drive to get there, Earth Sky Time’s fresh bread has kept us visiting weekly for years.

Their farm store is open Sunday, Tuesday, and Friday from 9:30 am to 5 pm. Visit for delicious bread, vegetables straight from the field, and homemade spreads, pastries, and veggie burgers.

Upcoming performances and events can be found on the Earth Sky Time website . 

Things to do near Manchester, Vermont

Just like the town itself, the area surrounding Manchester is packed with plenty of exciting and relaxing possibilities, both indoors and out.

Drive to the top of Mount Equinox

Located off Route 7A between Manchester and Arlington, Mount Equinox Skyline Drive is the longest privately owned, paved toll road in the United States. It ascends 3,248 feet over 5.2 miles to the top of Mount Equinox, which is the highest mountain in the Taconic Range.

Views from the top of Skyline Drive are dramatic, so pack a picnic and be prepared to spend a few hours enjoying them.

Swim in Dorset Quarry: The Oldest Marble Quarry in the United States

Some of the best swimming to be found near Manchester is at the Dorset Marble Quarry, the oldest marble quarry in the United States. The flooded quarry is like a massive, extra-deep double-Olympic size pool, with geometric boulders and cliffs rising all around it.

Whether you’re there to cool off or just take in the sights, the Dorset Quarry is a fine place to be on a hot Vermont afternoon. There is a fee for parking at the Dorset Quarry, which helps offset the cost of upkeep.

Hike a section of the Oldest Long Distance Trail in the United States

The Appalachian and Long Trails wind right past Manchester, adding to the plentitude of hikes to choose from. Some of the most popular sections of the Appalachian Trail near Manchester are:

• Prospect Rock Trail : A 3.5-mile roundtrip hike with an elevation gain of around 1,000 feet. The trail is rated by the Green Mountain National Forest as being moderate to difficult, and it offers a great view of Manchester Valley and Mount Equinox.
• Bromley Mountain Long Trail: This is a 6.2-mile hike rated as moderate by AllTrails. There is an elevation gain of about 1,400 feet; this is a great way to get the view from Bromley’s summit without needing to pay for a lift ticket. 
• Bourn Pond and Stratton Pond Loop: For a longer hike, maybe even a two-day affair, check out this 16-mile loop through wetlands and forests to the two scenic ponds where you can set up camp or stop for a picnic and a quick swim before continuing on.

Visit the Bromley Mountain Adventure Park

One of the most exciting places we visited while exploring the greater Manchester area was Bromley Mountain Adventure Park.

As a kid I grew up skiing at Bromley Mountain every winter — it’s smaller than the other nearby resorts like Stratton and Mt. Snow, but Bromley’s slopes have a distinctly welcoming vibe that has kept it at the top of my personal Vermont Ski Mountain hierarchy. 

Bromley isn’t just a winter attraction though; in the summer the Mountain Resort opens attractions like an Alpine Slide (remember to use the brakes!), giant swings, trampolines, a water slide, ziplines, a Treetop Adventure course, and of course, the chairlift to the top of the mountain which offers a great view.

There are also more kid-friendly activities available around the base lodge, like bumper boats, a climbing wall, and an inflatable obstacle course called the Spider Climb.

For a full list of attractions, and pricing, check out Bromley Mountain Ski Resort .

Grab a Creemee and Maple Syrup at the Sugar Shack in Arlington

No trip to Vermont is complete without a maple creemee, and some of the best in Southern Vermont can be found driving on Route 7A through Arlington.

The Sugar Shack is a small grey barn sitting back from the highway — inside you’ll find every manner of maple-flavored snack.

My mouth was watering while I browsed maple-flavored meat snacks and maple preserves. Pick up some cheeses and some drinks, and then stop by the counter for your maple creemee (and maybe some syrup for your next pancake breakfast).

While you enjoy your maple treats, you can also browse some Vermont souvenirs, and check out the Sugar Shack’s Norman Rockwell exhibit for a bit of art history.

Read Next: Plan a Perfect Winter Weekend in Vermont: Bennington and Manchester

Manchester, Vermont FAQs

Where should i stay in manchester.

So glad you asked! We have a few special places to recommend based on personal experiences, numerous tours, and the advice of family and friends.

Kimpton Taconic Hotel: We don’t often recommend chain hotels, but this is an exception. Not only is this beautiful property located within the old part of Manchester Village, but it’s dog-friendly (with no additional fees), and the staff does an amazing job making sure your stay is perfect. The incredible covered porch is a great spot to spend your evenings unless, of course, you want to spend it in the heated pool.

Where should I go out to eat in Manchester, Vermont?

Our favorite restaurants for dinner in Manchester are Depot 62 for authentic Mediterranean and Turkish fare and Ye Olde Tavern for traditional New England food. For a nice lunch on an outdoor patio, consider Seasons , and for pizza, definitely check out Sam’s Wood Fired .

When should I visit Manchester?

Because of New England’s distinct seasons, you should plan the time of your visit based on what you want to do while you’re here. Summer and fall both offer great outdoor opportunities with their own distinct advantages.

Summer means you can explore the fun swimming holes and eat creemees, but fall is when the Vermont hardwoods get to show off their brilliant foliage.

And of course, winter comes with its own set of activities such as skiing, ice-skating, and snowshoeing. Honestly, you can’t go wrong, as long as you don’t come in mud season (we want all the maple syrup for ourselves).

More Things to Do in Vermont

Grab our five-page printable bucket list that includes all the best things to do in Vermont !

Follow us on social media!

Gabriel Reed recently graduated from Keene State College with a degree in English and is a writer and photographer from Southern Vermont. He currently works for the Manchester Journal. In his free time, Gabe enjoys spending time outdoors and pursuing his love for fantasy stories, medieval aesthetics, and grilled meats.

Wednesday 13th of July 2022

Nice to see what's happening and available in Vermont, thanks, TJ.

• THINGS TO DO
• Outdoor Recreation
• Food & Drink
• Art & Culture
• Trip Ideas & Itineraries

• PLACES TO VISIT
• Vermont Regions

Top Attractions

• VERMONT SEASONS

• PLAN YOUR VISIT
• Places to Stay
• Getting Here
• Getting Around
• Events Calendar
• Free Vacation Maps and Guides

Search Vermont Vacation

Charming. Historic. Classic.

MANCHESTER, Vermont

Nestled between the Green Mountain and Taconic ranges, Manchester is the North Shire town of Bennington County . Rich history runs through the region, with such luminaries as Norman Rockwell and Rudyard Kipling making their homes in the area. The Battenkill River wraps around Manchester, lending credence to the fly-fishing culture apparent throughout the town. Mount Equinox, the Taconics ’ highest point at 3,850 feet, elevates the town’s skyline.

Manchester’s rich history makes for a wide range of things to do. Explore a 1900s mansion built by the Lincoln family, play pinball on more than 60 vintage machines, learn to drive a four-wheel drive car through a forest, explore the art of falconry, and more in southern Vermont. 

Mount Equinox Skyline Drive

The longest privately owned, paved toll road in the United States ascends Mount Equinox to stunning views.

Manchester Designer Outlets

Big-name and designer outlets draw shoppers to this outdoor mall nestled in the heart of downtown Manchester. 

Southern Vermont Arts Center

Internationally known artists and more local creators find exhibition space at this southern Vermont gallery. 

Hildene, the Lincoln Family Home

Built in 1905, the historic home and grounds of Robert and Mary Lincoln is a stronghold of American history, including an original Pullman train car and Pres. Lincoln’s stovepipe hat.

Pastime Pinball

Play on more than 60 vintage pinball machines at this arcade in Manchester. 

American Museum of Fly Fishing

Fly fishing is part of Manchester’s culture. This museum promotes water conservation and shares the sport’s history through exhibits and events.

Merck Forest and Farmland Center

Explore a working farm and forest, meet farm animals, and learn about sustainable forest management on 60 public acres in Rupert.

Taconic Music

Year-round classical music concerts, lessons, demonstrations, and educational experiences in southwestern Vermont.

Hemholz Fine Art

Named among the top 20 galleries in the USA and best in Vermont, this fine art gallery houses sculpture, mixed-media, and fine art with a global reach.

Land Rover Experience

Roam the Green Mountains and hone your driving skills on icy hill climbs, side tilts, and rocky terrain on a closed course under expert supervision.

Ellenbogen Gallery

This artist-owned gallery showcases and sells fine art as well as chocolate, wine, and cocktail components from around the world.

Dorset Trails

Two trails for hiking or mountain biking wrap around nearby Dorset. 

Bromley Mountain Resort

Known as Vermont’s Sun Mountain, this family-friendly resort offers almost 200 acres of skiable terrain, including a mountain adventure park.

Emerald Lake State Park

A wooded hillside campground, nature programs, and a beach and swimming area make this a popular park for families.

Manchester in the Summer

In the summer, Manchester comes alive with golf, hiking, swimming, and a beautiful scenic drive to the top of the Taconic Range. 

Winter in Manchester

In the winter, snowflakes swirl around Manchester’s beautiful historic downtown. Ice skating, skiing and riding, shopping downtown, and heading inside to take in the town’s art galleries and museums are all great ways to enjoy the season.  

Attraction Spotlight

Built in 1907 by Robert and Mary Lincoln, son of the 16th U.S. President Abraham Lincoln, Hildene served as a summer home for the Lincoln descendants through 1975, when it became a historic museum. The 412-acre estate features a Georgian revival mansion, a 1912 restored Pullman train car, a working goat dairy, and fabled peony gardens.

Event Spotlight

Manchester Music Festival

July-August; check for specific performances

Chamber music lights up Southern Vermont Arts Center at this annual music festival, featuring string quartets, rising young artists, and performances that make classical music feel accessible, eliminating barriers between artists and audiences.

Further Reading

Day Trip to Arlington and Manchester

A day trip to southern Vermont includes eating delicious Burmese food in Manchester and exploring small-town Arlington, the first capital of the Vermont Republic in 1777.

Arts and Heritage Attractions in Southern Vermont

In southern Vermont, arts and history are everywhere, waiting to be discovered. The region’s museums and art centers bring the history of Vermont to life.

Manchester’s Seven Springs Garden and Sculpture Park

Vermont has some remarkable sculpture parks, but few are as serene, navigable and beautifully manicured as the Seven Springs Garden & Sculpture Park in Manchester.

Eat, Shop, and Stay in Manchester

Transportation Options

For Manchester

Local Transportation

• Taxi Service and/or Rideshare:  Mountain Drivers, Equinox Transportation Agency
• Manchester Taxi
• Bus services:   Marble Valley Regional Transit District  

Discover More

Trip planning resources with Manchester’s local downtown organization. 

12 Best Things to Do in Manchester, VT

Written by Barbara Radcliffe Rogers Updated Dec 27, 2023 We may earn a commission from affiliate links ( )

Since the late 1800s, when it was a popular summer destination for wealthy city families, tourists have found plenty of things to do in Manchester. Many of them built elegant summer homes overlooking the beautiful Battenkill Valley, some of which have since become tourist attractions or charming inns.

The picturesque and historic enclave of Manchester Village invites strolling along its marble sidewalks or a relaxing hike around Equinox Pond. A mile to the north, the commercial district of Manchester Center is one of the most popular places to visit in Vermont , lined with name-brand outlet shops.

The surrounding mountains provide even more things to do in Manchester, with their hiking trails and ski slopes, even a skyline drive leading to 360-degree views. One of these, Mount Equinox, rises directly from the charming Manchester Village, and trails to its summit begin just a few steps away from the luxury hotels.

You'll find plenty of attractions and places to go with this list of the best things to do in Manchester.

1. Visit Hildene

2. stroll through manchester village historic district, 3. southern vermont arts center, 4. browse in the northshire bookstore, 5. take the mount equinox skyline drive, 6. the american museum of fly fishing, 7. climb mount equinox, 8. walk around equinox pond, 9. ride the sun mountain flyer at bromley, 10. hike to lye brook falls, 11. enjoy winter sports at stratton mountain, 12. visit north meadow farm, where to stay in manchester for sightseeing, map of things to do in manchester, vt, manchester, vt - climate chart.

In the mid-1800s, Manchester was a popular summer retreat for wealthy urban families to escape the city heat. They stayed at the Equinox or built sumptuous summer mansions of their own.

Robert Todd Lincoln, son of Abraham Lincoln and president of Pullman Company, was visiting the summer home of his business partner when he saw a spot overlooking the Battenkill Valley and the mountains, and determined to build a country estate there. The result was the Georgian Revival Hildene.

The estate remained in the family until the 1970s, so today the restored mansion is furnished in many pieces from Mary Todd Lincoln's family and displays personal items of President Lincoln , including his stovepipe hat. You can tour the family's living areas, as well as the kitchen, pantry, and rooms used by the household staff.

Robert Todd Lincoln was more than a summer visitor to Hildene. He established a working farm with a dairy herd, chickens, and kitchen gardens. The latter have been restored, along with the formal gardens designed by his daughter, Jesse. Beautiful even in the winter, when the pattern defined by the lines of privet hedge are visible through the snow, the formal garden is at its showiest in June, when more than 1,000 peonies are in full bloom.

More recent additions to the estate are a goat farm and cheese dairy (you can buy the cheeses at the gift shop) and a beautifully restored Pullman Car, similar to those used by wealthy summer families arriving in Manchester. Especially interesting are the display panels along the platform, delving into the work of the Black porters who served on these lavish trains, and their struggle for fair wages and working conditions.

Address: 1005 Hildene Road, Manchester, Vermont

Official site: www.hildene.org

The stately white columns of the venerable The Equinox Golf Resort & Spa dominate one side of the ensemble of buildings at the heart of the village, which is listed as the Equinox House Historic District on the National Register of Historic Places.

The notable 19th-century buildings include the 1871 First Congregational Church and the 1822 Courthouse opposite the hotel, as well as the Gothic Revival St. John's Episcopal Chapel farther south along "The Street."

This designation refers to the stretch of stately homes along Route 7-A, a promenade dating from the 1850s and the oldest part of Manchester. Architectural styles are mixed: Federal, Greek Revival, Colonial Revival, shingle style, and combinations of these.

Look down as you walk along this tree-shaded promenade, and you'll see that the sidewalks are made of slabs and irregular pieces of marble. With the abundance of cut and broken marble from the quarries in neighboring Dorset, this was a logical – and thrifty – paving material.

It's easy to spot the approach road to the Southern Vermont Arts Center as you drive along West Road, which parallels Route 7-A between Manchester Center and Village. Giant-sized contemporary sculptures decorate the large field , and you'll see more in the woods alongside the road as you climb to the Yester House, another summer mansion, built in 1917 and listed on the National Register of Historic Places.

Inside, a dozen galleries display a continuously changing series of contemporary art exhibits . These showcase local and regional artists. The annual Art from the Schools exhibit fills the galleries with the exuberant and colorful drawings, paintings, and sculptures created by students in area schools.

The center's CurATE Café serves artful lunches, and you can take an after-lunch stroll around the grounds to see more sculptures or follow the Boswell Botany Trail. This three-quarter-mile woodland nature trail is lined by native wildflowers and connects with the trails of the Equinox Land Trust.

Address: West Road, Manchester, Vermont

Official site: https://www.svac.org/

Frequently listed as one of New England's top bookstores, the Northshire has been a Manchester institution since 1976 . The indy bookshop rambles through room after room, its shelves filled with books on every subject, with especially complete collections of Vermont and New England subjects.

Browsing is encouraged, and comfortable chairs invite reading a page or two of one of the thousands of new and used books. The second floor is just as inviting for children, with a full range of picture books and juvenile literature in a bright setting.

If you're staying longer in Manchester, check the schedule of author events; the Northshire attracts well-known authors, and you never know who may be autographing books while you're there. At the front of the store is a selection of autographed books that gives you an idea of who the store's past guests have been.

Outside in the little Reader's Park , a metal sculpture of a reader sits on a bench in front of a bright gelato stand, and among the flowers is a monument inscribed with 45 quotes from Thomas Jefferson, commissioned to commemorate the 1976 bicentennial. The monument was sculpted by Vermont artist Dennis Sparling.

Almost any place you visit in and around Manchester, there's a view of Mount Equinox, which gives you an idea of how wide-sweeping the view is from its summit. At an altitude of 3,848 feet above sea level, it is the highest peak in the Taconic range, which Vermont shares with New York.

From its top is a 360-degree view that includes Vermont's Green Mountains, the Adirondacks in New York, New Hampshire's White Mountains, and the Taconics and Berkshires in Massachusetts. On exceptionally clear days, you can see Mount Royal in Montreal.

You can take in this view by climbing (see below), but far easier is driving to the top on the fully paved Skyline Drive. As you negotiate the 20 or so hairpin turns, you go through four different forest types, and exhibits in the St. Bruno Visitors Center at the top include information on native plants and wildlife.

Bring a picnic to have lunch on the top (there are tables), or pick up a map at the Toll House to follow the 0.2-mile trail to Lookout Rock for more views.

Address: 42 Skyline Drive, Arlington, Vermont

You can't miss spotting the big Orvis store beside Route 7-A or the neighboring Orvis Outlet, but less conspicuous is the American Museum of Fly Fishing next door. Stop here to see vintage fishing equipment, artfully tied flies, and the world' largest collection of items relating to angling. Here, too, are books on fishing, historic photographs, and works of art.

Brush up your casting skills or learn the sport at the Orvis Fly-Fishing School , across Route 7-A, where you can learn everything from choosing the right waters to tying a perfect knot.

Address: 4070 Main Street, Manchester, Vermont

Official site: https://www.amff.org

The relatively short climb from Manchester Village to the summit of Mount Equinox is rewarded with a 360-degree panorama that reaches to four states, among the finest views in southern Vermont. Although short and with a vertical rise of only 2,800 feet, the climb is no walk in the park. The steep sections are long and unremitting, as strenuous on the way back down as they are on the climb up.

Known variously as the Blue Summit Trail, the Burr & Burton Trail, and the Red Gate Trail, the 3.1-mile (each way) route begins at the Red Gate, behind Burr & Burton Academy. Watch for a spur trail that leads to a mountain spring, and at the summit, a .2-mile trail to Lookout Rock.

Address: West Union Street, Manchester Village, Vermont

Official site: https://www.equinoxpreservationtrust.org

Between Mount Equinox and the Village, Equinox Pond is surrounded by woodland and a network of trails through land owned by in the Equinox Preservation Trust. The flat Equinox Pond Trail is level and only a mile long, circling the lake; it is one of the favorite things to do with children too young to tackle steeper terrain.

Eleven miles of trails form a network through the 914 acres of protected land, including the trail that ascends Equinox. The half-mile Flatlander Trail, beginning at the Red Gate, is also wide and level, and the 1.25-mile Trillium Trail connects the Pond Loop to the Southern Vermont Art Center Botany Trail.

A 15-minute drive from Manchester, Bromley Mountain Adventure Park is the summer incarnation of the popular ski resort. The Sun Mountain Flyer is New England's longest ZipRider, five-stories high, half a mile long, and reaching speeds up to 50 miles per hour. Dual tracks allow friends or family member to ride at the same time.

Bromley also features the first triple-tracked Alpine Slide opened in North America; at two thirds of a mile long, it's still one of the longest slides in the world. Amusements and rides are designed for all age levels, with a giant swing, bumper boats, mini golf, a climbing wall, and scenic chairlift rides for spectacular mountain views.

Address: Vermont Route 11, Peru, Vermont

Official site: https://www.bromley.com

Deep in the Lye Brook Wilderness, which lies to the east of Route 7 in the Green Mountain National Forest, Lye Brook Falls are one of New England's tallest waterfalls, at 125 feet. The stream cascades down a long series of step-like ledges, and like all mountain waterfalls, is at its roaring, frothy best in the spring or after a rain.

The trail, which is about two miles long, follows an old railroad bed through heavy forests. It climbs steadily, but not steeply, alongside Lye Brook. You can reach the trailhead at the end of Glen Road.

You don't need to be a skier to enjoy a winter day at Stratton Mountain, less than half an hour's drive from Manchester. Skiers like Southern Vermont's highest peak for its nearly 100 well-groomed trails and as many acres of glades; boarders and freestylers head for its five terrain parks. This is one of the best ski resorts in Vermont .

Non-skiers can whiz down the hill on a snow tube, go ice-skating, go on a sleigh ride, or take to the trails on a dogsled tour. Afterwards – or instead – both skiers and non-skiers will enjoy the Alpine village at the base of the mountain, where they'll find a spa, fitness center, and restaurants that spill out onto the pavements under heat lamps.

Address: 5 Village Lodge Road, Stratton Mountain, Vermont

Official site: https://www.stratton.com

Read More: Things to Do in Winter in Vermont

Vermont is known for its farms, and you can't travel far without views of their rolling pastures and picturesque barns. But there's a lot more to farming than these idyllic landscapes, and in Manchester is a chance to look inside a real working family farm.

North Meadow is not a tarted-up-for-tourists show farm, nor is it a 19 th -century "gentleman's farm" that was the toy of a wealthy estate owner. It's a real, working farm where a hard-working family raises grass-fed cows and other livestock, makes multiple types of cheese, and sells its products at a farm store.

On a guided or self-guided tour, you can look inside the barns, watch cheese being made, and meet a variety of animals and birds. You'll see goats, rabbits, alpaca, pigs, cows, chickens, ducks and more livestock, and maybe get to pat a baby calf. Kids will get eye-to-eye with baby goats and can let off energy at the playground.

Farmer Dave Johnson, if he's not out in the field cutting and baling hay, will tell you about the animals and how he rescued this long-neglected farm. This is the real thing, the backbone of Vermont's rural economy.

Address: 726 North Road, Manchester, Vermont

Official site: https://www.northmeadowfarms.com/

Tourist attractions and things to do in Manchester are spread out across its two centers and along Route 7-A, which is Manchester's Main Street. You will need to drive between attractions, so the location of inns and hotels is not a major consideration.

Luxury Hotels :

• The Inn at Ormsby Hill , near Hildene, gives you a chance to sample the lifestyle of the wealthy magnates who built Manchester's mansions. This Select Registry property has it all: lavish rooms, mountain views, attentive innkeepers, and bountiful breakfasts.
• Another former estate, dog-friendly Wilburton Inn is a brick mansion set on a hillside surrounded by woods and fields. There's an outdoor pool, tennis court, and lawn games. Breakfast is not served.
• The Reluctant Panther Inn & Restaurant is a boutique in the heart of historic Manchester Village. The stately home has newly renovated rooms with marble baths and luxurious linens. Breakfast is included, and the inn is home to one of Vermont's finest restaurants.

Mid-Range Hotels:

• On Route 7-A north of the center, the family-friendly Olympia Lodge has a pool and inviting lounge area for guests. Spacious rooms include refrigerators, and the cooked-to-order breakfast is included.
• Within walking distance of the shops and outlets of Manchester Center, The Palmer House Resort has freshly renovated rooms and suites (some with fireplaces), an outdoor pool, tennis courts, a nine-hole golf course, and a stocked fishing pond.
• The Manchester View is well named, with one of southern Vermont's best mountain views. Enjoy it from the balcony or deck that comes with each room or suite. These individually decorated rooms also have fireplaces and double spa tubs.

Budget Hotels:

• North of the center on Route 7-A, Aspen at Manchester is a motel set on spacious, well-kept grounds with a pool and lawn sports. The attractive rooms and suites, some with fireplaces, are well furnished, and the Aspen is pet-friendly.

More on Vermont

• 1.3 By plane
• 1.4 By train
• 1.5 By foot
• 2 Get around

Manchester is a town in southernwestern Vermont , nestled at the foot of 3,816-foot Mount Equinox. It has a tranquil old-world atmosphere, and Manchester Center is a shopper's paradise that is completely different from the village with its signs, sights and many shops. Manchester is also home to Hildene, Robert Todd Lincoln's 412-acre summer estate.

Get in [ edit ]

By car [ edit ]

Manchester is 20 miles (32 km) north of Bennington , just off Route 7 at the intersection/exit of Route 11/30 or via Vermont Route 7A. Driving time from Albany, NY via Route 7 is about 1½ hours, or 2 hours via Route 7A; 4 hours from New York City ; 3½ hours from Boston ; 4 hours from Montreal ; and 7 hours from Toronto .

By bus [ edit ]

There is regional bus service north to Rutland and south to Bennington.

By plane [ edit ]

The closest Airport is Albany International Airport , with service to Canada and throughout the USA. Rutland Vermont Regional Airport has service daily to Boston on Cape Air [dead link]

By train [ edit ]

The closest train station is in Rutland, Vermont (about 30 miles away). From Rutland, Amtrak has daily service to New York City. There is talk of Amtrak coming through Manchester via Albany, New York.

By foot [ edit ]

Hikers can take the Long Trail , which runs along the main ridge of the Green Mountains, coinciding with the Appalachian Trail for 100 miles (160 km) in southern Vermont. The Long Trail is within 3 miles of Manchester, just below Bromley Mountain.

Get around [ edit ]

The best ways to get around are by car, bicycle or on foot.

Taxi service is available from:

• Manchester All Hour Airport Car Service +1 802-362-0052
• Manchester Mini Van +1 802-262-7039
• Manchester Taxi +1 802-362-4118

See [ edit ]

• Southern Vermont Art Center , West Rd , ☏ +1 802-362-3279 . The Southern Vermont Arts Center prsents exhibitions and performances, provides education and instruction in the arts, exhibits and markets the work of member artists, and provides opportunities for community service in promotion of excellence in the arts. There is a cafe on premises.  
• Hildene The Lincoln Family Home , 1005 Hildene Rd ( off Route 7a ), ☏ +1 802-362-1788 . An historic home, gardens, trails, woods and farm set on 412 preserved acres of quintessential Vermont landscape.  
• American Fly Fishing Museum , 4104 Main Street, Route 7a ( next to Orvis Flagship Store ), ☏ +1 802-362-3300 . Established in 1968 in Manchester, Vermont, by a group of interested anglers, the American Museum of Fly Fishing was created to preserve and exhibit the treasures of American angling.  
• Manchester Antique & Classic Car Show , Dorr Farm on Route 30 , ☏ +1 802-733-1632 . Over 500 cars show up each year. The event takes place in June.  
• Manchester Fall Art & Craft Festival , Riley Rink , ☏ +1 802 425-3399 . 200 juried artisans exhibit and sell a wide range of contemporary and traditional craft work as well as original art, photography, sculpture, and specialty food products  
• Dorset Playhouse , Dorset , ☏ +1 802-867-2223 . Summer . Opened in 1929. Series of plays in an antique-style barn.  

Do [ edit ]

• [formerly dead link] Equinox Snow Tours , Route 11/30 , ☏ +1 802 824-6628 . Snowmobile tours in the Green Mountains.  
• Mount Equinox Skyline Drive , Route 7a , ☏ +1 802-362-1115 . Spectacular 5½-mile drive to the summit.  
• Hunter Park at Riley Rink , Hunte Park Rd , ☏ +1 802-362-0150 . Southern Vermont's largest indoor facility, is in the foothills of Vermont's Green Mountains. Riley Rink is a 35,000 ft² (3,300 m 2 ) multi-purpose facility. During winter months the facility features an Olympic size indoor skating rink. In spring, summer and fall, Riley Rink is converted to accommodate indoor sports, trade shows, concerts and a variety of other uses by locals and visitors.  
• Maple Leaf Half Marathon , Manchester Center . Every September. The premier half-marathon in beautiful southwestern Vermont provides outstanding race organization, enthusiastic volunteers, and a fun and challenging romp through the gorgeous New England countryside.  
• Vermont Summer Festival Horse Show , Harold Beebe Farm in Dorset, Vermont . Six weeks of top equestrian competition in the Green Mountains.  
• Koman Race For The Cure , Hildene Meadows in Manchester , ☏ +1 802-362-2733 . Every July . 5-km runs/fitness walks in the world, raises significant funds and awareness for the fight against breast  
• Pumpkin Carving Festival , Equinox Valley Nursery , ☏ +1 802-362-4144 . Activities include kids games, a craft market, food vendors, fresh cider donuts, wagon rides, costume parade, scavenger hunt, pumpkin cake walk, the Equinox Nursery's famous corn maze, a special harvest basket raffle and of course Pumpkin Carving Contest.  

Buy [ edit ]

• Manchester Designer Outlets . Kate Spade, Ann Taylor, Banana Republic, Betsy Johnson, Brooks Brothers, Ben & Jerry's, Clark's Bostonian, Five Season's, Coach, Crabtree & Evelyn, Escada, Lily Pulitzer, Giorgio Armani, Gymboree, Hickey Freeman & Bobby Jones, Not Your Daughter's Jeans, Vineyard Vine, Betsy Johnson, J. Crew, Johnston & Murphy, Jones of NY, Kenneth Cole, Michael Kors, Overland, Polo / Ralph Lauren, Cosmetics Company, Theory, Traditions, TSE Cashmere, Tumi, Vermont Bird Place, Yankee Candle and Yves Delorme,  
• Comollo Antiques & Fine Wines , 4686 Main St , ☏ +1 802-362-7188 . Brimming with American & European treasures.  
• Brewster Antiques , 152 Bonnet St , ☏ +1 802-282-1579 . Antique/estate jewelry of classic and formal design, 1850s to 1960s.  
• J.K. Adams , Route 30 , toll-free: +1-800-451-6118 . Fine Vermont woodworkers.  
• Manchester Hot Glass , 79 Elm St , ☏ +1 802-362-2227 . Local artist creating interesting pieces  
• Orvis Flagship Store , 4189 Route 7a , ☏ +1 802-362-3750 . Great clothing, hunting supplies and gifts.  
• Manchester Consignment Shop , Route 7a ( In the same building as Up For Breakfast ), ☏ +1 802-282-2208 . Stop into Manchester's one-of-a-kind consignment boutique.  
• Designer Outlet Center , Highridge and Battenkill Shopping Center . Nine West, Gap, Coldwater Creek, Jockey, and Maidenform.  
• Judy McCormick Jewelry , 1933 West Rd , ☏ +1 802-362-3201 . Manchester jewelry artist, creates exquisite pieces from her direct imports of gemstones and gorgeous monster pearls.  
• The Reel Angler , 302 Depot St , ☏ +1 802-362-0883 . Fishing gear.  
• Mountain Goat , 4886 Main St , ☏ +1 802-362-5159 . Locally owned outdoor clothing and gear outfitter.  
• Wines By George , 345 Center Hill Rd , ☏ +1 802-362-4936 . Southwestern Vermont's only specialty retail wine shop.  
• Nature's Market , 303 Center Hill Road Manchester Center , ☏ +1 802-362-0033 . Knowledgeable staff, with very large food, cleaning and vitamin selection.  
• New Mornings Natural Food , 296 Depot St , ☏ +1 802-362-3602 . Full service health food store.  
• Northshire Bookstore , 4869 Main St , ☏ +1 802-362-2200 . A family-owned, independent bookstore committed to the future of the book.  
• The Magic Sleigh , 4960 Main St , ☏ +1 802-362-2197 . Christmas International presents a wonderful array of traditional, European, and American Christmas collectibles, folk art, carvings, ornaments, pewters, nativities, and Santas of all types  
• Flying Cow Signs , 5073 Main St , ☏ +1 802-362-4927 . Crafting imaginative, hand-carved signs in solid wood for homes and businesses. Using century old techniques and time proven methods, they carve each sign in the fine tradition of the New England craftsman.  
• Long Ago & Far Away , 4963 Main St , ☏ +1 802-362-3435 . Native American art & jewelry; Native Alaskan & Canadian Inuit sculpture & art.  
• Epoch-18 Vermont Artisans , 4927 Main St , ☏ +1 802-768-9711 . A cooperative art and craft gallery featuring 18 Vermont artists and artisans working in a variety of disciplines including furniture, jewelry, pottery, glass, photography, sculpture, baskets and wearables  
• Tilting at Windmills Gallery , 24 Highland Ave , ☏ +1 802-362-3022 . A broad selection of work by important regional, national, and international artists.  
• [dead link] Gander Gallery , 4716B Main St , ☏ +1 802-768-8396 . Dedicated to showcasing the work of established and emerging artists of the region.  
• H. N. Williams Store , 2732 RT 30, Dorset , ☏ +1 802-362-1679 . Founded in 1840 as a Harness Shop, this is a country store that carries just about everything. Deli is open 7 days a week.  
• [dead link] The Cheese House , 5187 Vermont Route 7A, Arlington ( Just 5 miles south of Manchester ), ☏ +1 802-375-9033 . Specializing in Vermont cheeses.  
• Mother Myrick's Confectionary , 4367 Main St ( Across from the Orvis Outlet ), ☏ +1 802-362-1560 . Confectionery, established in 1977, famous tantalizing buttercrunch, intense truffles, & amazing desserts.  
• Dutton Farm Stand , 2083 Depot St , ☏ +1 802-362-3083 . The farm stand that's open year round. Vermont-grown produce apples, sweet cider, baked goods, hand made wreaths, Christmas trees. Sugar house open during season.  
• Bob's Maple Shop , 591 Richville Rd , ☏ +1 802-362-3882 . 100% pure, organic maple syrup form Manchester, Vermont. Third generation sugarmaker produces true taste of Vermont syrup. Maple syrup, candy, and maple cream.  
• Heinel's Clothiers , 4964 Main St. , ☏ +1 802-362-1400 . Featuring Woolrich, Sorel boots, Johnson's Woolens, Duofold, Hanes, Lee Jeans, Acorn slippers, Wigwam.  

Eat [ edit ]

• Ye Olde Tavern , 5183 Main Street, Route 7a , ☏ +1 802 362-0611 . Open daily from 5PM with last seating at 9PM . A circa 1790 Colonial Inn, which whisks one away to bygone era. Serving regional and continental fare, with an excellent wine list. Ye Olde Tavern has been recognized by the State of Vermont as a 'Green Restaurant'. Reservations are suggested. $16-32 .  
• Wilburton Inn and Restaurant , River Rd , ☏ +1 802-362-2500 . Festive and elegant dining in historic billiard room or on the marble veranda overlooking the most amazing views in the region. Featuring local and organic produce grown on their partner farm. Available for special events.  
• Perfect Wife Restaurant & Tavern , 2594 Depot Avenue, Route 11/30 , ☏ +1 802-362-2817 . Live music and pub fare in the tavern and creative fare in the main dining room.  
• Sushi Boat , Route 7a ( Near Rite Aid Pharmacy ), ☏ +1 802-366-1888 . The best sushi in the area, BYOB.  
• Up For Breakfast , 4935 Main St , ☏ +1 802-362-4204 . Very creative and fun atmosphere. Only open in the morning.  
• The Works Bakery and Cafe , Route 11/30 , ☏ +1 802-362-5082 . Everything is prepared to order using natural ingredients.  
• Gringo Jack's Southwestern Grill , ☏ +1 802-362-0836 . Very cute place, with diverse southwestern menu. Serving lunch and dinner. Open daily.  
• Garlic Johns , Route 11/30 , ☏ +1 802-362-9843 . Affordable Italian cuisine  
• Little Rooster Cafe , Route 7a , ☏ +1 802-362-3946 . Cute European-style cafe serving breakfast and lunch.  
• Chantecleer Restaurant , Route 7a , ☏ +1 802-362-1616 . Premiere French fare in southern Vermont. Setting is a cute converted barn.  
• Panda Garden , Highridge Shopping Center , ☏ +1 802-362-9133 . Chinese and Japanese cuisine. Open daily.  
• Mrs. Murphy's Donuts , 374 Route 11/30 , ☏ +1 802-262-1874 . Great donuts and breakfast sandwiches. Eat at the counter and get to know the locals.  
• Manchester Bar and Grill , 1844 Route 11/30 , ☏ +1 802-366-8282 . Open daily for lunch and dinner  
• Zoey's Double Hex Restaurant , Route 11/30 , ☏ +1 802-362-4600 . Good burgers, open for lunch and dinner.  
• Mistral's at Tollgate , 10 Tollgate Rd , ☏ +1 802-362-1779 . French restaurant sitting next to a beautiful flowing stream.  
• Gourmet Deli & Cafe , 4961 Main St , ☏ +1 802-362-1254 . Serves breakfast and lunch daily.  
• Thai Basil Restaurant , 4940 Main Street , ☏ +1-802-768-8433 . Thai cuisine. ( updated Jan 2018 )

Drink [ edit ]

• Spiral Press Cafe , 15 Bonnet St ( Adjacent to the Northshire Bookstore ), ☏ +1 802-362-9944 . Great place relax and read a book. Tasty pastries and coffee.  

Sleep [ edit ]

• Inn at Manchester , Route 7a , ☏ +1 802 362-1793 , toll-free: +1-800-273-1793 , [email protected] . Located on four park-like acres since the 1940s.  
• Equinox Resort and Spa , Route 7a , ☏ +1 802 362-4700 . High-end resort offering archery lessons, falconery, Range Rover driving, as well as world class golf course and spa.  
• Wilburton Inn and Restaurant , River Rd , ☏ +1 802-362-2500 . Check-in: 2PM , check-out: 11AM . Country luxury historic mansion and estate. Main mansion and six cottages set on sprawling grounds, terraced gardens, organic farm. $170-300 .  
• Inn at Ormsby Hill , 1842 Route 7a , ☏ +1 802 362-2841 . Beautifully decorated rooms, with a great breakfast.  
• Reluctant Panther Inn & Restaurant , 1739 West Rd , ☏ +1 802 362-2841 . European style inn. Pretty rooms and refined dining.  
• Palmer House Resort Motel , 5382 Main Street, Route 7a , ☏ +1 802 362-3600 . Very clean rooms.  
• Manchester View Motel , 77 High Meadow Way , ☏ +1 802 362-2739 . Nice property with great views of the mountains.  
• Aspen Motel , 5669 Route 7a , ☏ +1 802 362-2450 . Nice clean rooms with a pool on the property.  
• Weathervane Motel , Route 7a , ☏ +1 802 362-2444 . Resort type motel close to Hildene  
• Olympia Motor Lodge , 7259 Main St , ☏ +1 802-362-1700 . After a day outdoors, enjoy relaxing by the roaring fire in our lobby or sit by the pool.  
• Ira Allen Inn House , 6311 Route 7a, Sunderfland , toll-free: +1-877-362-2284 . One of the oldest inns in Vermont and a state historic site.  
• [dead link] Seth Warner Inn , 2352 Route 7a , ☏ +1 802-362-3830 . Guest rooms feature exposed beams, hand-stenciled wall trim and queen-size canopy beds with country quilts. Each room has its own distinctive antiques, artwork and a full private bath.  
• Brittany Motel , Route 7a , ☏ +1 802-362-1033 . Straightforward lodging with continental breakfast.  
• Northshire Lodge , 97 Route 7a, Main St , ☏ +1 802-362-2336 . Free in-room Wi-Fi. Uniquely built rooms with beautiful mountain views through 8-ft-wide sliding glass doors.  
• Hill Farm Inn A Vermont B&B , 458 Hill Farm Rd , toll-free: +1-800-882-2545 . A variety of guest rooms have been created around the heart of a 200-year-old dairy farm. The farm's fields and pastures at the foot of Mt. Equinox provide acres of scenic open space for a picture perfect setting  
• Casablanca Motel , 5927 Main Street, Route 7a , ☏ +1 802-363-2145 . Individually themed cozy cottages.  
• Sutton Place , 50 School St , ☏ +1 802-362-1165 . A quaint 1800s guest house.  
• Three Mountain Inn , Route 30, Jamaica , toll-free: +1-800-532-9399 , [email protected] . Fifteen-room bed and breakfast in the a ski resort east of Manchester. $200-250 . ( updated Aug 2021 )

Go next [ edit ]

• Weston 25 minutes from Manchester is charming with its Old Parish Church and Church on the Hill, the village green, the historic museums, stately houses, the famous Vermont Country, renowned Weston Playhouse and Benedictine Priory are among the many reasons to discover Weston. The entire Village is listed on the National Register of Historic Places.
• Grafton about 40 minutes from Manchester, one of the prettiest villages in Vermont. Many of its beautiful old buildings have been lovingly restored by its residents and the Windham Foundation, so what you see today looks much like it did years ago.
• Saratoga Springs is about 45 minutes away, just south of the Adirondacks in upstate New York. Long a vacation destination for New Yorkers, Saratoga Springs is a pleasant town filled with swanky shops, spas and the famous Saratoga Race Track. A key battle in the Revolution War happened nearby. Saratoga Springs is home to Skidmore College
• Emerald Lake State Park [dead link] Located between Manchester and Rutland, the park is popular for its wooded hillside campground, beach and swimming area.
• Covered Bridges There are just over 100 authentic covered bridges within state. The closest are in West Arlington, Sunderland, Rutland and Bennington.

• Has custom banner
• Has mapframe
• Articles with dead external links
• See listing with no coordinates
• Has map markers
• Listing without plain text name
• Do listing with no coordinates
• Articles with formerly dead external links
• Buy listing with no coordinates
• Eat listing with no coordinates
• Drink listing with no coordinates
• Sleep listing with no coordinates
• Has routebox
• Southern Vermont
• All destination articles
• Has Geo parameter
• Usable cities
• Usable articles
• City articles
• Pages with maps

Navigation menu

• Search Please fill out this field.
• Manage Your Subscription
• Give a Gift Subscription
• Newsletters
• Sweepstakes
• Destinations

The Perfect 3-day Weekend in Manchester, Vermont

From ski slopes to art galleries, this quaint town offers something for every season.

Whether you’re looking for a relaxing getaway or a few days on the slopes, the small but trendy town of Manchester, Vermont, is one of the best year-round destinations in the state. Less than a four-hour drive from Manhattan and three hours by car from Boston, Manchester is easily accessible for a three-day weekend. Its quaint streets embody quintessential small-town Vermont, offering white church steeples, local breweries, fantastic restaurants, dynamite art galleries, and many other attractions. Manchester transforms from a snow-covered ski town in the winter to a lively arts and hiking magnet in the spring, summer, and fall. Here are some ideas for how to spend a long weekend, no matter the season.

Check into the Kimpton Taconic Hotel , a contemporary property with the feel of a nostalgic New England resort. If you’re arriving in the early afternoon, drop off your bags and head into town on one of the hotel’s loaner bikes, or go for a leisurely stroll. Noodle around the town center and shop at Manchester Designer Outlets or any of the unique mom-and-pop stores. End the afternoon at the famous Northshire Bookstore , which is set in the Colburn House, a former stagecoach inn. Delve into a rare book or simply browse through the one-of-a-kind photo books.

Since it’s your first night, you might just want to chill out for the rest of the evening at the Taconic. The hotel’s rustic-chic restaurant, The Copper Grouse , is one the best eateries in the area and uses seasonal, locally sourced ingredients. For pre-dinner hors d'oeuvres, try the cheese and charcuterie board with one of the many specialty cocktails or craft beers. You can dine by the fireplace in the lounge or grab your drinks and sit outside by the fire pit. Even though the menu changes every season, the Wagyu burger is a staple.

After a restful night's sleep, it's time to scurry to the popular Up for Breakfast . True to its name, the small eatery is on the second floor of an old building. The country-style breakfast- and brunch-only spot is best for a hearty omelet or the celebrated morning glory pancakes served with hot Vermont maple syrup. Get there on the early side if you don't want to wait, since the place doesn't take reservations (or credit cards).

When you're feeling sufficiently satiated, jump in the car and head to Bromley Mountain . If you’re visiting in the summer, Bromley’s slopes feature an alpine slide that runs two-thirds of a mile down the mountain. The resort also has one of the longest zip lines in Vermont for those who love a serious adrenaline rush. In the fall, the chairlift opens for leaf peepers. During winter, snow bunnies can get there early and buy a half-day ski pass. Although the mountain is smaller than its neighbors like Stratton and Stowe, you’ll rarely wait in a lift line, and since the mountain faces south, the slopes stay a bit warmer when the temperature drops to the single digits.

Tuckered out from a morning of activities? It’s time to head back toward town and spend the afternoon at the Southern Vermont Arts Center . It's open year-round and exhibits a diverse range of work, including outdoor sculptures, photographs, abstract paintings, Cubist portraits, and classical landscapes. Sit down for a bite and a quick rest at the Curate café. The menu is simple but fresh, with salads, artisanal sandwiches, flatbreads, and dinner offerings. Call ahead, though — the café is open Thursdays to Sundays and reservations are mandatory. If the great outdoors still beckons, the property offers acres of hiking trails and the Boswell Botany Trail.

Manchester is known for its mellow vibe, and after a full day of gallivanting, a low-key evening will feel good. Grab dinner at the Chop House inside The Equinox Golf Resort and Spa and then hit the resort's Falcon Bar for a nightcap and live music. Or skip the drinks and rock on a porch chair while stargazing back at The Copper Grouse.

When you’re visiting Vermont, a food pilgrimage to a classic American diner is a must. Bob’s Diner is a great bet for a hearty breakfast. Forget avocado toast and chai lattes, because Bob’s is all about traditional grub. The iconic establishment has everything from eggs over easy with buttered toast and a cup of black java to mini buttermilk flapjacks with the perfect amount of melted butter and powdered sugar. You’ll feel like you’ve walked back in time with the steel countertop molding, red cushioned barstools, and a colorful 1950s jukebox.

From the diner, drive north on Route 7 for about 20 minutes to Mountain View Ranch for some leisurely horseback riding. Vermont is known for its trail rides, and seeing the mountain peaks and rolling farmland from the saddle is a must-try. Depending on your skill and comfort level with a horse, choose from private or group excursions that range from one to two hours long. You can also sign up for a Sunset Ride and other special sessions. It's a bit harder to go for a trot in winter when the trails are covered in snow, so the ranch also offers sleigh rides. Hop aboard and snuggle up in a plaid blanket for an outing to a campsite, where the ranch provides cold-weather sustenance like hot chocolate.

By noon, it’ll be time to get the horses to the stable and drive back to Manchester for lunch at Depot 62 . The Turkish/Mediterranean restaurant sits inside a quirky antiques shop with private tables near the window and a copper communal table in the middle. The menu is all about brick-oven pizzas, lamb kebabs, and baklava — a nice change of pace from the classic Vermont dishes.

Dedicate the last afternoon of your trip to history at the famous Hildene house — the former estate of President Abraham Lincoln’s son, Robert, and his wife, Mary. The property covers more than 400 acres, which include formal gardens, a carriage barn, and many other enticing attractions. One of the most notable pieces on display in the 1905 Georgian Revival mansion is President Lincoln’s stovepipe hat. The estate also houses an intricate 1903 Pullman Sunbeam train car (Robert Lincoln served as president and chairman of the board of the Pullman Company until his death in 1926). Visitors can explore more than 12 miles of trails on the grounds — even in winter when they're open for cross-country skiing and snowshoeing.

To end the perfect three-day trip, get a taste of both old and new Vermont over dinner at the Silver Fork , run by a husband-and-wife team. Set within an elegant former library, the art-filled restaurant features a bar made of wood salvaged from the bookshelves and an airy dining room in a 1964 wing designed by Buckminster Fuller. The eclectic, globally inspired menu changes daily depending on the chef's inspiration and what he finds at the market. (Tip: The Silver Fork is closed Sundays and Mondays, so if your last day in Manchester is a Sunday, switch this with your Copper Grouse dinner night.)

Related Articles

Explore Manchester

Plan your trip to manchester: best of manchester tourism.

Essential Manchester

Manchester Is Great For

Shopaholics.

• The Equinox Golf Resort & Spa
• Kimpton Taconic Hotel
• Hampton Inn & Suites Manchester
• The Inn at Manchester
• The Reluctant Panther Inn & Restaurant
• The Silver Fork
• YE OLDE TAVERN
• The Reluctant Panther Restaurant
• The Copper Grouse
• The Little Rooster Cafe
• Hildene, The Lincoln Family Home
• Manchester Designer Outlets
• Lye Brook Falls
• North Meadow Farm
• Southern Vermont Arts Center

Green Mountain Charm: 20+ Best Things to Do in Manchester VT

Hiking, shopping, art, history, and outdoor adventure — here are the best things to do in Manchester VT!

As a kid, I spent all my family vacations visiting family in Vermont and I developed a great fondness for the charming shire of Manchester. Since that time, the village has grown into a larger and upscale town, attracting many people from the big cities, while still holding onto its classic Vermont style. Nestled between the Green Mountains to the East and the Taconic Range to the West, visitors will find an abundance of things to do in Manchester VT.

In the summer’s warmer months, visitors can take full advantage of the stunning scenery, local festivals, horse shoes, farms, and outdoor adventure pursuits. By early fall , the state’s stunning foliage appears and Mother Nature begins to show her vibrant colors, attracting armies of leaf peepers. Families enjoy agritourism from corn mazes, apple picking, pumpkin farms, harvest festivals, and the popular Peru Country Fair.

Of course, winter months attract the skiers and riders, swooshing down the trails at nearby Bromley, Stratton, and Magic Mountains and coming into town to shop, eat, and enjoy its cultural attractions. Spring brings mud season, the last of the spring ski runs, stunning peony displays at Hildene, and, of course, maple sugaring. While the snow melt can turn the ground to mud, it also is prime time to see waterfalls at their fiercest.

Getting to Manchester, Vermont

Manchester is located in southwestern Vermont, with the town center located at the intersection of Route 7A and Route 30. The historic village and shops are located within a one to two mile stretch, with many other fun things to do nearby. Manchester is a three-hour drive from Boston and a four-hour drive from New York City.

The closest airport is the Rutland Southern Vermont regional airport (RUT), which is 28 miles to the north. Alternatively, you can fly into Albany, NY (ALB), which is about 1.25 hours to the west.

Things to do in Manchester, Vermont

I’ve visited Manchester in all four seasons, and each time I return, I find something new to fall in love with in this New England town, and visiting Manchester is one of my favorite things to do in Vermont .

So whether you or stopping in as part of a Vermont road trip , coming for a ski trip , or planning a Vermont romantic getaway , I’m sure you will find more than enough things to do in Manchester to your liking.

Manchester is a popular tourist destination year-round, offering a variety of outdoor activities for every season.

Drive Mount Equinox Skyline Drive

As a kid, I was always a bit jealous of all those cars with a “This Car Climbed Mount Washington” bumper stickers, since, at the time, I’d never been to New Hampshire . But as frequent Vermont visitors, we had driven the Mount Equinox Skyline Drive .

Mount Equinox is the highest peak in the Taconic Range and Mount Equinox Skyline Drive is the longest privately-owned, paved toll road in the United States. It ascends 3,248 feet over 5.2 miles to the top of Mount Equinox, with several vistas and picnic areas along the way. Note that this road is only accessible from Memorial Day weekend through October 31st.

Hike to Lye Brook Falls

The Lye Brook Falls trail just outside of Manchester is about a 5-mile out and back, moderately-rated trail that has a fairly steady climb, some over rocks and roots, with a few small stream crossings and downed trees to get over along the way.

You will want to wear waterproof hiking boots and use trekking poles or carry a walking stick to make the stream crossing easier, especially if you are visiting during the high water season in the spring.

At the top, you have a fantastic view of the 125-foot-high Lye Brook Falls, one of the highest in Vermont. The slippery rocks make it very dangerous so don’t try to climb the falls. Also keep in mind that the parking lot isn’t very big, so it pays to get there early to find a spot and have more undisturbed time to enjoy the falls. When we went on a weekend in early May, it was still pretty quiet.

Walk Around Equinox Pond

If you are looking for an easier, family-friendly hike, try the Equinox Pond Trail. This flat, one-mile “Flatlanders Path” loops around the pond. Keep an eye out for wildlife and if you want to explore more of the Preserve, pick up a map at the trailhead and look for Robin’s Lookout off the Red Gate Trail for a great view of the Battenkill Valley. 

Other family-friendly hikes include the 3.6-mile Prospect Rock hike to a rock outcropping with a great view over town and Mount Equinox or Haystack Mountain, which is a 3-mile roundtrip with a beautiful view of the Taconic Range. If you need more advice, check with the folks at The Mountain Goat, which is an outdoor outfitter in Manchester, which also offers cross-country ski and snowshoe rentals in the winter.

try Fly Fishing

If you are new to angling, sign up for a lesson at the Orvis Fly-Fishing School , where you can learn casting, how to tie knots, proper fly selection, and how to play, land, and safely release fish. If you already know the basics, you can hire a guide like Young’s Fly Fishing to take you out to the locally-known spots along the Battenkill.

You can also visit the American Museum of Fly Fishing and spend some time shopping at the Orvis flagship store and outlet (more about that below.)

Take the Alpine Slide at Bromley Mountain

As a kid, I relished the days we spent whipping down the mountain on Bromley’s Alpine slide. I’ve been able to pass that thrill on to my daughter on a recent visit to Bromley’s Mountain Adventure Park, which is open from Memorial Day weekend through early October. In addition to the triple-track Alpine Slide, there is a four-story Giant Swing, waterslide, scenic chairlift ride, mini golf, and other fun, family-friendly attractions.

Speaking of golf, The Golf Club at Equinox offers beautiful mountain views. This scenic 1927 Walter Travis design course is a Par 71, 6,423-yard Vermont gem of a course. It has been named one of the “Top 75 courses in the U.S.” by Golf Digest and ranked in the “Top 3 Golf Courses in Vermont” by  Golfweek .

Go Off-Road with the Land Rover Driving Experience

Want to learn how to drive off road? Located near The Equinox Resort, the Land Rover Experience Driving Center helps you hone your skills for every season on icy hill climbs, side tilts, mud and ruts, water crossings, and rocky terrain. They offer one or two-hour sessions, as well as half-day or full-day experiences in a selection of Land Rover vehicles, which are well-equipped for any terrain.

You also have the option to bring your own vehicle for the half-day experience, if you want to learn what your own car can do off-road. There are 30 Land Rover Experience Centers around the world, but only three in the United States (the others are at the Biltmore Estate in North Carolina and the Quail Lodge & Golf Club in Carmel Valley, California.)

These experiences are offered year-round, in any weather, with appointments booking quickly during the fall foliage season. The motto when it comes to navigating tricky terrain is to go as slow as possible and as fast as necessary. Don’t expect some bouncing and jostling wild ride, the driving experience is much more focused on the technique and control of off-roading driving.

Watch a little video I put together from my Land Rover driving experience demo:

View this post on Instagram A post shared by Tamara Gruber ✈️ Travel Creator (@we3travel)

Go Horseback Riding

For equestrians, guided trail rides are available at Mountain View Ranch in nearby Danby, Vermont. However, the real highlight for horse lovers is the Vermont Summer Festival and Horse Show, which runs from June through August in nearby Dorset. This is a busy time to be in town, as it attracts about 2,000 visitors each week from competitors to spectators at the Manchester Classic Horse Show.

Search for Covered Bridges 

If you travel south on Route 7A, or The Shires of Vermont Byway , you will find a few covered bridges before you get to Bennington. The Arlington Green Covered Bridge is located off Vermont Route 313 in Arlington, Vermont. Built in 1852, this lattice truss bridge spans the Batten Kill River and has been listed on the National Register of Historic Places since 1973.

Tucked down and around a bend on Sunderland Hill Road, in Sunderland between Route 7 and Scenic 7A, it is easy to miss the Chiselville Covered Bridge, which stands 40 feet above the Roaring Branch. Built in 1870, apparently the bridge had a cameo in the 1987 movie Baby Boom .

Enjoy Winter Sports

Manchester is surrounded by plentiful options for winter sports including downhill skiing, cross-country skiing, ice skating, snowshoeing, sleigh rides, and snowmobiling. Bromley Mountain is less than 20 minutes outside of Manchester and is a very family-friendly ski mountain offering 47 trails and nine lifts.

Stratton Mountain is only 30 minutes away and is Southern Vermont’s highest peak, with 99 trails and 11 lifts. Magic Mountain, located 30 minutes away, brings back the golden age of skiing with a rustic lodge servicing 39 trails.

Go Swimming

Located just 20 minutes north of Manchester on Route 7, Emerald Lake State Park is the perfect spot for swimming and cooling off in the summer. As a kid, I used to love our day trips to Emerald Lake. This 430-acre state park in East Dorset is the home of a 20-acre Emerald Lake, called such because of its emerald color. There is a wooded hillside campground, beach, and swimming area, and is also a good spot for fishing and hiking.

And just 20 minutes south of Manchester on Route 7A in Shaftsbury is the Lake Shaftsburg State park , which also offers swimming, picnicking, and boat rentals.

Stroll the Manchester Riverwalk

In the heart of Manchester Center is the pedestrian Riverwalk. This work in progress aims to allow locals and visitors to enjoy trails along the Batten Kill River, away from the noise and traffic of passing cars, but still offer easy access to shops and restaurants in town.

Shop at the Manchester Farmers Market

If you are visiting during the week, the Manchester Farmers Market runs from early June through early October every Thursday from 3 to 6 pm in Adams Park. This producer-only market now features over 30 vendors from local farmers to artisans.

While a visit to Vermont should undoubtedly be filled with time in nature and the great outdoors, there are plenty of indoor pursuits too for those colder or wetter days.

Of course, Vermont is known for its antiquing, farm visits, and all types of artists and craftspeople from basket weaving to woodworking to glass blowing. Here are just a few of the indoor attractions in and near Manchester.

Tour Hildene

I remember visiting the Lincoln family home as a child on one of our many day trips to Manchester and I’ve revisited as an adult many times over. Once the home of Robert Lincoln, the only surviving child of Abraham and Mary Todd Lincoln, today Hildene exists to carry the values of Abraham Lincoln to future generations by educating and inspiring others to put those values into action.

Built as a summer home when Robert was president of the Pullman Company, the largest manufacturing corporation in the country, the 412-acre estate includes a Georgian revival mansion and 14 historic buildings including a formal garden and observatory.

Visitors can also see the historic carriage barn, a 1903 “Sunbeam” restored Pullman car, and a new solar-powered goat dairy and cheese-making facility. If you visit in late March or early April, you may even get to see a few recently-birthed kid goats. Inside, you can take a self-guided tour of the mansion and see one of the only remaining stovepipe hats of Abraham Lincoln.

One of the best times to go is in early June, when the gardens are ablaze with the peonies, two varieties of which can only be found at Hildene. If you visit around Memorial Day weekend, you will have a chance to purchase peonies too. Earlier spring brings a wash of yellow as the daffodils bloom from April to early May.

Make sure to leave time to browse at the beautifully-curated gift shop and visitor center on property (and pick up some freshly made goat cheese in season.)

Visit the Southern Vermont Arts Center

Vermont is home to artists of all types, and the Southern Vermont Arts Center showcases that work with a rotating calendar of exhibitions. The center also offers cultural, educational, and creative opportunities through classes and programming for all ages, from figure drawing to watercolors, to performing arts events including classical music and live theater.

The Center is also home to the largest sculpture park in Vermont, which you will see a lot of from the road on your drive up to the center, and the Boswell Botany Trail for woodland hiking.

Try Glass Blowing at Manchester Hot Glass

Manchester Hot Glass is a glass studio and gallery nestled between Manchester’s outlet stores. In addition to shopping, you can also book a private glass-blowing class.

If you have never tried this craft, a class will lead you to a new appreciation for the works of art and common glass items you use.

Play Games at Pastime Pinball

For a little indoor fun and a giant dose of nostalgia, check out the Pastime Pinball arcade in the heart of downtown Manchester. Pay an entry fee based on time (30 minutes) or unlimited play, and then have a blast trying your hand at 60 of the hottest pinball games from the 1950s to today.

On the first level, the games are arranged according to age, with the oldest games first. You may think these games with fewer bells and whistles would be easier, but they are not! It is certainly fun to try your hand at quite a few and find your favorite.

This multi-level arcade with a snack bar also features vintage games like a 1950s shuffle bowler, 1960s shooting game, 1970s basketball game, and other arcade classics such as my favorites, Ms. Pacman, Galaga, Frogger, and Donkey Kong.

Shop at Orvis

Charles F. Orvis founded the Orvis Company in Manchester, Vermont in 1856 to offer superior fly-fishing equipment. Today, Orvis sells clothing, home products, and pet goods, and, of course, fly-fishing gear.

Going to Manchester and not stopping at the Orvis flagship store is like going to Freeport, Maine and not going to L. L. Bean. In addition to the flagship store, you can also find great deals at the outlet store next door.

Visit The American Museum of Fly Fishing

With Orvis in town, it isn’t a surprise to find The American Museum of Fly Fishing in Manchester. The museum was established in 1968 to preserve the rich heritage of fly fishing. 

Today, this small Museum serves as a repository for and conservator of the world’s largest collection of angling and angling-related items and documents the evolution of the sport. You will also find art, photographs, manuscripts, and books related to fly fishing.

Browse at the Northshire Bookstore

I make a stop at the Northshire Bookstore every time I pass through Manchester. This family-run, independently-owned bookstore offers two floors of hand-curated book selections, including a large children and teens section upstairs.

It pays to check the store’s event calendar before you go to see if you can stop into any author signings or readings while you are visiting. This is the type of shop I wish could be found in every neighborhood and it is no wonder people think it is the best bookstore in Vermont.

The booksellers are friendly and knowledgeable and there is also a cafe on site, encouraging you to grab a coffee, crack open a book, and lose yourself for a while.

Go Boutique & Outlet Shopping

There are plenty of boutiques, artisans, galleries, and specialty food makers to visit in Manchester. For your Vermont souvenirs, stop into the country store at Above All Vermont for everything maple, plus toys, specialty foods, and other souvenirs.

If you like specialty foods, also visit Fortuna Sausage and Italian Market to sample the company’s acclaimed signature salami, a Calabrese soppressata. For special gifts, pop into the Epoch Artisan Gallery, and, for the home, try Vermont Kitchen Supply.  

If you enjoy outlet shopping, you will find yourself warming up your credit card in Manchester. While there aren’t as many outlets as their used to be, you will still find a handful including Marimekko, Eileen Fisher, and Tumi. However, you will also find local brands like Vermont Flannel Company and Smugglers’ Notch Distillery.

Visit the Sugar Shack and Norman Rockwell Exhibit

If you drive south down Scenic Route 7A toward Bennington, Vermont, you should plan to stop in Arlington at the Sugar Shack and Normal Rockwell Exhibit. Norman Rockwell was a resident of Arlington from 1939 to 1953, during which time he used over 200 local people as models for his work.

The exhibit focuses on these works and profiles of the people used in his paintings. Of course, you can also pick up some locally produced pure maple syrup, along with maple frosted sugar cookies, freshly baked pies, and their famous homemade cider donuts. 

Stop by the Taylor Farm

Just out of town, you will find a number of farms and artisanal food producers that are worth a visit, including Taylor Farm in nearby Londonderry. This 180-year-old working dairy farm now offers cheese making, lodging, a farm stand, and sleigh rides in the winter.

The farm’s signature products include a selection of gouda cheeses, maple syrup, preserves, and mustards. If you visit in the spring, make sure you stop by to see the farm babies!

Grab Some Candy at Mother Myrick’s Confectionery

If you need to satisfy your sweet tooth, stop into Mother Myrick’s Confectionery. This little chocolate and pastry shop is famous for its butter-crunch toffee, but you can also find truffles, turtles, fudge, and other specialty candies.

If you want more than a small bite, pick up a Lemon LuLu cake, a light and moist lemon pound cake covered with a delicate fresh lemon glaze. 

Where to Eat in Manchester, Vermont

Manchester is home to many cafes and restaurants, but here are some recommendations on where to eat in Manchester.

Breakfast in Manchester

• Little Rooster Cafe – this cozy roadside diner serves up down-home breakfast and lunch dishes in an old-fashioned country decor setting. If you are staying at the Hampton Inn, this is also a quick and easy walk into downtown Manchester Center. Little Rooster Cafe is located at 4764 Main Street, Manchester, VT.
• Dina’s Bakery Cafe – Dina’s is a cute little bakery and cafe serving up fresh pastries and coffee drinks, along with breakfast and lunch specialties. Try the challah French toast with maple syrup! Dina’s Bakery Cafe is located at 4201 Main St, Manchester, VT 05255.

Lunch in Manchester

There are many places in town and along Route 7A and Route 30 in Manchester that are perfect for lunch including a few recommended by locals:

• RoadRunner Cafe – offers fried chicken, salads, and sandwiches. 4961 Main St, Manchester, VT 05255
• Mystic Cafe – good for lunch or dinner, offering fresh pasta, seafood, and meats. 4928 Main St, Manchester Center, VT 05255
• Crooked Ram – serves up wood-fired pizza, oysters, and other local specialties, along with natural wine and craft beer. In the warmer months, you can dine al fresco in the beer garden. 4026 Main St, Manchester, VT 05254

Dinner in Manchester

Manchester has many fine dining options, including spots for a date night or comfort food, including the following. Just remember, many restaurants stop serving after 8 pm so reservations are recommended.

• Silver Fork – Silver Fork offers elegant, upscale dining in the heart of town, located in the former Mark Skinner Library. This gorgeous, art-filled setting pays a subtle tribute to the building’s former occupant, with wood from the shelves used in the bar and the card catalog adding a whimsical design touch. The food is as interesting as the dining room, with the eclectic menu showcasing the travel and experience of Chef Mark — with dishes from his native Baltimore, Germany where he started his career, and Puerto Rico, which he called home for many years. The presentation is beautiful, the service attentive, and the taste delivered on its promise. Silver Fork is a perfect choice for a special night out. 48 West Rd, Manchester, VT.
• Mistral’s at Tollgate – located outside of Manchester near Bromley Brook, serves seasonal French cuisine. If you can request a table by the window, Mistral’s makes for a perfect date night dinner. 10 Tollgate Rd, Winhall, VT 05255
• Reluctant Panther – for another fine dining option right in town, locals prefer the dining room at the Reluctant Panther. Located in a small, luxury hotel, the Reluctant Panther features farm-to-table cuisine with an extensive wine list, a selection of Vermont beers, and craft cocktails.  39 W Rd, Manchester, VT 05254
• Barrows House Inn & Restaurant – located in nearby Dorset, the Barrows House Inn & Pub is a gastropub offering a modern take on New England cuisine. 3156 VT-30, Dorset, VT 05251
• Ye Olde Tavern – this historic restaurant serves up New England comfort food. This colonial era Tavern catered to the Vermont Green Mountain Boys and others since before Vermont was even a state. 5183 Main St, Manchester Center, VT 05255

Where to Stay in Manchester, Vermont

Note: This post may contain affiliate links. If you click a link and make a purchase, I may receive a small commission. All opinions are my own.

The Equinox Resort & Spa

The Equinox Resort and Spa has long been the best place to stay in Manchester, catering to both U.S. presidents and generations of vacationing families. I used to gaze at it longingly when we would drive by, headed back to my grandmother’s log cabin outside of Rutland.

This five-star luxury resort offers golf, a full spa, an indoor pool, a skating rink, and other amenities and activities including falconry. After attending some events here, I’ve only fallen more enamored by the historic buildings and casual elegance of the resort.

Kimpton Taconic Hotel

The Kimpton Taconic Hotel (part of IHG) is a bit newer to the area and offers a rustic elegance appropriate for the environment. They may not have a dog greeter every day, but Kimpton-brand properties always welcome you to bring your own pooch and even provide dog beds and bowls on request. The hotel’s on-property restaurant and bar, The Cooper Grouse, serves up elevated, yet unfussy cuisine (and an excellent hamburger.)

Personally, I was a little underwhelmed by the design and decor of the guest rooms of the Taconic, compared to other Kimpton hotels that I have stayed at, but I loved the public spaces.

Hampton Inn and Suites

If you are looking for an affordable yet dependable option, the Hampton Inn and Suites is reliable and won’t break the budget. Located right in the center of town, you also can’t beat the convenience for walking to shops and restaurants.

I stayed here recently on a girl’s trip to Vermont and found it to be clean, spacious, and nicely decorated. Amenities include a free hot breakfast and a fitness room and an indoor pool. There are also electric car chargers available.

Reluctant Panther

One of my picks for a romantic getaway to Vermont , the Reluctant Panther is also a good choice for foodies. This small luxury hotel offers just 20 rooms and suites featuring antique furnishings, fireplaces, marble baths, and original artwork. The restaurant features contemporary American cooking with an emphasis on locally sourced products in an elegantly upscale atmosphere.

Wilburton Inn

On a previous mother-daughter trip to Vermont, Hannah and I stayed at the lovely Wilburton Inn just outside of town. This historic mansion just outside of town offers a mix of elegant guest rooms and vacation homes.

The 30-acre hilltop grounds offer breathtaking views, as well as an outdoor pool, tennis court, lawn games, and sculpture gardens. The Inn also offers special events such as Murder Mystery weekends and Doggie Slumber Parties — so be sure to check the calendar when booking your stay.

VISITING VERMONT? YOU MAY ALSO BE INTERESTED IN…

• Vermont road trip itinerary
• Route 100 Vermont road trip
• Things to do in Brattleboro, VT
• Things to do in Burlington, VT
• Glamping in Vermont at the Highwood Retreat

Save this to Pinterest

Tamara Gruber is the Founder and Publisher of We3Travel. A former marketing executive and travel advisor, Tamara is an award-winning travel writer and recognized expert in family travel. Tamara is a member of SATW and the Adventure Travel Trade Association, and serves on the Board of the Family Travel Association. She is also the publisher of YourTimetoFly.com and the co-host of the Vacation Mavens travel podcast.

Find this useful? Share it!

Publish Date: April 9, 2023

SIGN UP FOR OUR NEWSLETTER & RECEIVE A FAMILY VACATION PLANNING KIT!

We3Travel.com will use the information you provide on this form to send you newsletters. You can unsubscribe at any time by clicking the link in the footer of any email you receive from us, or by contacting [email protected] . By clicking below, you agree that we may process your information in accordance with these terms.

Start typing and press enter to search

Manchester Vermont Things To Do: Scenic Drives, Breathtaking Mountain Views and Delicious Eats

Our favorite Manchester Vermont things to do – fun driving experiences, art, history, and more! 

Over the last few years, Vermont has become one of our favorite travel destinations. We’ve spent significant time road-tripping to various small towns and cities, including Bennington, Killington, Shaftsbury, Brattleboro, and Woodstock. I aim to fully explore The Shires of Southwestern Vermont, a collective of 17 towns and villages. I still have quite a few more places to go.   

With plenty of greenery, hiking trails, rivers and tributaries, farms, and friendly locals, Vermont is where we unplug, recharge, and enjoy the peace, quiet, and rugged outdoors. Recently, I had the chance to visit Manchester Vermont adding it to a growing list of quintessential Vermont towns and villages I recommend visiting in New England. 

With two trips to Manchester (also known as Manchester Village) under my belt, one solo business trip in winter, and the most recent in spring with my family, Manchester is an all-year-round destination with something for all ages and interests. 

In this Manchester travel guide, discover some of my favorite Manchester, VT restaurants, where to stay in Manchester, Manchester, VT things to do, and tips for planning your own epic adventure.  

This Manchester travel guide was created in partnership with Manchester Business Association .

All opinions shared are from my personal experience.

• Why visit Manchester, Vermont? 

Table of Contents

When is the best time to visit Manchester? 

1. hildene, the lincoln family home, 2. mount equinox skyline drive, 3. southern vermont arts center, 4. land rover experience, 5. pastime pinball , honorable mentions , manchester vt restaurants, so, is visiting manchester worth it .

Unlike some Vermont towns with little tourism infrastructure, Manchester packs a delightful punch. Located in Southwestern Vermont and considered the North Shire, Manchester is at the base of Mt. Equinox, the highest summit in the Taconics. 

Welcoming tourists since the mid-1800s, Manchester is a well-known vacation destination a few hour’s drive from major cities like Burlington (VT), New York City, and Boston. 

• 4.5 hours from New York City 
• 3.5 hours from Boston 
• 2.5 hours from Burlington, Vermont

Whether you’re looking for rest or want to spend your days exploring, for a small Vermont mountain town, Manchester offers historic attractions, art galleries, museums, shopping and outlets, plenty of restaurants and watering holes, thrilling driving experiences, hiking, fly-fishing, golf, music festivals, and other types of outdoor recreation. 

You can easily spend a day, a long weekend, or an extended stay. I can see why so many people visiting Manchester often purchase second homes here.

Although less than 5,000 people live in Manchester, according to the 2020 census, Downtown Manchester is bustling with restaurants and eateries, cafes, locally owned businesses, boutiques and designer outlets with luxury brands.

With what seems like more roundabouts than stop lights, and sparkling marble sidewalks paying homage to the nearby marble quarries in Dorset, find grandiose and historic Greek revival and Federal-style architecture scattered throughout the area. 

View this post on Instagram A post shared by Danielle | Travel Podcast Host + Podcast Coach (@thedanielledesir)

This is a tough question because there are no right or wrong answers. 

Each season offers a unique way to experience Manchester, making it a wonderful place to visit throughout the year. 

Nestled between Green Mountains and the Taconic Range, the majestic Green Mountains towers the skyline. Whether visiting during the winter, autumn or the warmer months, the natural scenery is picture-perfect.

With the Green Mountains stretching across the state of Vermont and up into Canada, leaf peeping and apple picking are must-have experiences in the Fall.

Warmer weather (June to August) ushers in outdoor experiences like hiking, kayaking, golfing, and endless outdoor dining, while the winter is perfect for hitting the slopes, skiing, snowshoeing, snow tubing, and ice skating. 

Fun Fact: The snowboard was invented in 1977 by Jake Burton Carpenter in his Manchester garage. 

Depending on what sort of activities and experiences you’re looking for, plan your trip to Manchester!

Spring is my favorite time to visit Manchester, VT – the weather is mild, you can still do a lot of outdoor activities like hiking and biking, and there are no crowds.

Manchester VT Things To Do

While visiting Manchester, VT, Hildene is a must-see, regardless if you’re a history buff or not. 

The Lincoln family home built by President Lincoln’s only child to survive to adulthood, Robert Todd Lincoln, is a summer home coined ‘the cottage’ spanning 412 acres and features 12 miles of trails, a 1905 Georgian Revival Summer home, a fully restored Pullman car, and much more. 

You can easily spend half a day touring the estate, which includes a working farm and a floating boardwalk. Take your time and wander on your own or book a guided tour with a knowledgeable guide. 

Inside the mansion, read the exhibits in each room to learn what life was like for the wealthy Lincoln family; Robert Todd Lincoln was president of the Pullman Company, the largest manufacturing corporation in the country at the time. 

Most of the furniture is original to the family, and some items are original to the home. Upstairs see one of President Lincoln’s three surviving famous silk stovepipe hats. 

With so many things to see at Hildene, the Formal Gardens at the back of the home, designed by President Lincoln’s granddaughter, Jessie Lincoln, is undoubtedly my favorite place on the property. Overlooking the Valley of Vermont, the manicured garden is stunning, with one of the best views of Green Mountains. 

Before you leave, don’t miss the gift shop, where you can purchase cheese, maple syrup, honey, books, and other souvenirs. 

Admission: $23 for adults, $6 for youth under 16, and free for children under 5 years old. 

Mount Equinox Skyline Drive is another one of my favorite Manchester Vermont attractions. This 5-mile scenic drive to the highest peak in the Taconic Range promises mountain views as far as the eyes can see. 

As the longest privately owned, paved toll road in the United States, driving on the winding roads up to the top of Mount Equinox, I recommend stopping at each viewpoint on the way up, offering sweeping vista views.

Expect to spend 20 minutes driving up a gradual but steep incline to the top of the summit.

At the summit, visit the Saint Bruno Scenic Viewing Center to learn more about the Order of Carthusians, a Catholic religious order of monks and nuns that vow silence, solitude, and prayer. 

On the outdoor viewing deck, signage points out Burlington, Rutland, Killington Mountain, New Hampshire, New York, and the Adirondack Mountains off in the distance. 

When descending, drive carefully; take frequent breaks at the lookout spots to avoid burning out your breaks. 

Note: Only motor vehicles like cars and motorcycles are allowed on Skyline Drive. Hiking, walking, and biking are not allowed. 

Mount Equinox Skyline Drive is a magical place with views that made my heart soar. 

Admission: $25 per car and driver, plus $5 per additional passenger. 

Celebrating artwork from Vermonters, regional New England artists, and beyond, visit Southern Vermont Arts Center for all media types, including paintings, drawings, prints, textiles, ceramics, sculptures, jewelry, photography, and more. 

I loved the contrast between the main building, Yester House, with ten galleries displaying member artists’ works, and the Wilson Museum & Galleries for contemporary art. 

Walking from room to room at Yesterhouse, I felt like I was walking in a historic home equipped with an old-fashioned fireplace, piano room, library, and reading room.

The kid’s playroom was a big hit with Baby K: this is where your little one can play games, color, and be creative without constraint. Here parents can take a deep breath and don’t have to say: “No, don’t touch.”

Across the courtyard, visit the Wilson Museum & Galleries for contemporary art. With stark white walls and high ceilings, you’ll feel worlds away. 

During our visit, we viewed work by Alberto Rey, whose exhibit featured large-scale paintings of Battenkill, a 60-mile river from southern Vermont to the Hudson River, highlighting how the natural world is changing and becoming more vulnerable. 

While you’re in town, check the calendar for events like workshops, aerial yoga classes, and performances at the 400-seat Vermont barn-style auditorium, which can become an open-air venue when the side walls are rolled open.  

Lastly, at Southern Vermont Arts Center, art isn’t confined to the center’s four walls; as you’re driving into the campus, keep an eye out for all types of sculptures in nature, over 120 acres of forest land. 

Admission: $10 for adults and free for kids under 10 years old. 

Have you ever been off-roading? 

Before visiting Manchester, I hadn’t considered off-roading as a way to enjoy the outdoors, so when I found out about the Land Rover Experience in Manchester, I couldn’t wait to hop in and give it a go. 

If you aren’t familiar, off-roading is when driving on unpaved surfaces like mud, snow, rocks, sand, and other natural terrain. 

During this one-hour experience, I sat in the passenger seat while a Land Rover off-roading instructor navigated the steep inclines, declines, and natural obstacles, like ruts and rock crawls. We were deep in the countryside!

Open daily year-round, rain, inclement weather, or shine; get ready for a bumpy ride through the heavily wooded forest. 

Holding onto the edge of my seat: I couldn’t believe how our Land Rover titled close to 90 degrees, close enough we could touch the leaves on the ground!

I’m happy we weren’t left to our devices because I’m unsure how I’d handle the rough terrain. 

For those interested in developing their driving skills, one-on-one coaching from an expert instructor will help you navigate the challenging terrain and refine your technique so you feel more confident driving in all sorts of intense conditions.

Learn good driving techniques, how to approach obstacles on the course, and cool Land Rover vehicle features if you are interested in purchasing one.

Hands down, this is the most fun I’ve ever had riding at 2 mph! There were lots of smiles, gasps, and belly laughs. 

Admission: $275 per vehicle with up to 3 passengers. 

While I vaguely remember arcades growing up, Pastime Pinball reminded me of how fun pinballs can be, even as an adult.  

Featuring over 60 pinball games, including vintage pinballs dating back to the 1940s, all in mint condition, when you walk into the interactive museum, you’ll be greeted by blinking lights, clicking and clacking, and lots of smiles as everyone is having a ball. 

If you’re short on time, purchase a sampler pass for 30 minutes of play, but if you have more time and plan to go upstairs to grab a beer and popcorn, the stay & play pass offers unlimited games and carefree fun, so you don’t have to worry about time running out. 

I gravitated to horror-themed pinballs, including Halloween, Ghostbusters, and Terminator. Find the pinball games that speak to you, from digital to old-school mechanical. 

For free things to do in Manchester, Vermont, stroll around the Manchester Riverwalk, hike the Equinox Preservation Trust or Lye Brook Falls, or window shop at the Manchester Designer Outlets. 

Helpful Tip: For free maps and brochures, and information on things to do in Manchester, visit the Manchester Visitor Center. 

Address: 58B Depot Street, Manchester, Vermont

For the best restaurants in Manchester Vermont, let me point you to my top choices for breakfast, lunch, and dinner.   

Little Rooster Cafe is a great place for breakfast and lunch. Locals say it has the best pancakes in town. Frequented by locals and hungry visitors alike, this roadside diner is decorated from top to bottom in a red rooster theme. Their famous pancake recipe is a modern twist to the American breakfast staple, ‘flapjacks.’ 

Known for its housemade pasta, bring your appetite because Mystic Restaurant & Bar’s tasty selections and top-notch service will quench your thirst and fill your belly. The glossy trendy wood finish and windows offering lots of sunlight reminded me of the kind of experience you’d expect in New York City, not a small Vermont town. 

The wild tuna rice bowl was made fresh and absolutely delicious. And although they have an extensive wine selection and cocktails, I’d recommend sipping an elixir for a refreshing non-alcoholic drink. 

Note: If you’re traveling with a baby, highchairs weren’t available during my visit, so bring your stroller.

Located in Yesterhouse at Southern Vermont Arts Center, have dinner at CurAte Cafe . 

In the warmer months, ask to be seated outside, where you can dine on the patio with stunning rural Vermont in the background. 

With a nice selection of vegetarian and gluten-free options, the roasted mushroom flatbread with caramelized onions melted in our mouths and the Halibut fish n’ chips with Casper thyme aioli was a filling entree, perfect for Baby K, who loves to hold french fries in his hands.    

Open to museum-goers and the general public, reservations are required, and seating times are limited, so check the website or call beforehand. 

Where to stay in Manchester?  

For a cool mountain breeze and breathtaking views of Magic Mountain and Stratton Mountain, the historic Seesaw’s Lodge dating back to 1805, offers classic Vermont rustic cabin stays and luxurious comforts from hot tubs to in-suite deep soaker tubs that melt all your stresses away.

Approximately 20 minutes from Manchester, Seesaw’s Lodge is located in Peru, Vermont, an even smaller neighboring town. 

Our family stayed at the spacious second-floor Black Walnut suite with a large king bed, a cozy seating area, and a gas fireplace. A basket of fresh croissants and muffins was waiting for us as well as a Keurig with plenty of coffee options.  

I adored the French doors which opened onto the patio where I enjoyed the sunset. After a long day of exploring, running a warm bath and soaking in the deep tub with a glass of wine was icing on the cake. 

Checking in, we met the innkeeper, Kim Prins, who welcomed us and showed us around the seven-bedroom lodge with a large living area, dining room, and fully equipped kitchen.

Conveniently located on the property, grab a drink at Johnny Seesaw’s and sit outside on the outdoor deck in the warmer months for an incredible view. 

For a more traditional and centrally-located hotel, The Kimpton Taconic , an IHG dog-friendly hotel, is within walking distance of downtown Manchester. 

Amenities like daily shuttle service to various local attractions, complimentary tickets to Hildene, The Lincoln Family Home, and daily social hour serving wine and beer made for an unforgettable stay. 

I stayed here during a business trip and found it formal. The on-site restaurant and bar, The Cooper Grouse, serves breakfast and dinner. The bar also closes at 9 pm. 

Absolutely! Manchester is a beautiful destination I can imagine returning to year after year because of the abundance of activities and things to do. 

I cannot wait to plan a Manchester winter trip for snow tubing when Baby K gets older and leaf peeping, apple picking, and cider donuts in the Fall. 

I’d recommend Manchester for family vacations, romantic couples getaways, or a girl’s trip. Manchester is also a top pick for female solo travelers.

Despite two trips to Manchester, there are still so many experiences I’ve yet to have, including biking the Historic Marble Rail Trial, visiting the Museum of the Creative Process, and spa treatments at Serenity Spa or Equinox. 

Watch this video on Instagram recapping highlights from our trip to Manchester! 

What Manchester Vermont activities would you recommend? Let me know in the comments below what things to do in Manchester I missed. 

Read Next: Soft Adventure Ideas and Wellness Getaways   or listen to the episode below.

Danielle Desir Corbett paid off $63,000 of student loan debt in 4 years, bought a house at 27, and has traveled to 27 countries, including her favorites, Iceland, China, and Bermuda. Go here to learn Danielle’s incredible story, from struggling financially and in debt to finding creative ways to earn more and live on her terms. Listen to The Thought Card Podcast , where Danielle shares how you can creatively travel more and build wealth regardless of your current financial situation. Reach out to Danielle by contacting: thethoughtcard (at) gmail (dot) com.

Leave a Reply

Leave a reply cancel reply.

Your email address will not be published. Required fields are marked *

Join our Adventure: Get all my insider tips for traveling on a budget

The Wild Trek

35+ Best Things To Do In Manchester Vermont

Looking for the best things to do in Manchester Vermont? With so many wonderful activities, it’s hard to choose! Today we’re sharing the top 35+ things to do in Manchester VT that you won’t want to miss.

Nestled in the heart of New England, Manchester Vermont, beckons with its quaint charm, breathtaking landscapes, and an array of activities that cater to every taste and preference.

Whether you’re an outdoor enthusiast, a history buff, a shopaholic, or simply seeking a peaceful retreat , Manchester VT has something to offer for everyone.

Join us as we embark on a journey through this picturesque town and discover the 35+ best things to do in Manchester, Vermont.

35+ Best Things To Do In Manchester Vermont:

37. explore equinox preserve and pond.

Prepare to be entranced by the natural splendor of Equinox Preserve . This sprawling 914-acre oasis offers an escape into pristine woodlands, serene meadows, and meandering trails that beckon explorers of all levels. As you traverse the well-maintained paths, keep an eye out for the local flora and fauna that call this area home.

The highlight of the preserve is undoubtedly the tranquil Equinox Pond , where the reflection of surrounding mountains creates a mesmerizing tableau.

Whether you’re an avid hiker seeking a challenge or simply in search of a serene setting for reflection, Equinox Preserve promises a rejuvenating experience that connects you with the beauty of Vermont’s outdoors.

36. Visit Hildene, The Lincoln Family Home

Step back in time and uncover a piece of American history at Hildene , the stately summer residence of Robert Todd Lincoln, the son of Abraham and Mary Todd Lincoln . Nestled amidst lush gardens and rolling hills, this architectural masterpiece offers a fascinating glimpse into the lifestyle of the Lincoln family.

As you tour the meticulously preserved mansion, you’ll be transported to a bygone era, surrounded by opulent interiors, period furnishings, and personal artifacts. The estate’s captivating history extends beyond the mansion itself; explore the vibrant Pullman car, stroll through the enchanting formal gardens, and visit the working farm to witness sustainable agricultural practices in action.

A visit to Hildene is an immersive experience that bridges the gap between past and present, providing insight into the legacy of one of America’s most iconic families. This is one of the best things to do in Manchester Vermont for anyone who wants to experience true history!

35. Shop on Manchester Designer Outlets

Calling all fashion enthusiasts and bargain hunters! Manchester Designer Outlets is a shopping haven that promises an unparalleled retail experience.

With a curated selection of upscale brands and designer labels, this shopping destination offers the perfect blend of luxury and affordability. As you browse through the stylish boutiques, you’ll discover a treasure trove of fashion-forward clothing, accessories, and footwear.

Whether you’re on the hunt for timeless classics or the latest trends, the outlets provide an opportunity to score incredible deals on premium items. Beyond the enticing discounts, the outlets themselves boast a charming and welcoming atmosphere that enhances your shopping excursion.

Indulge in a day of retail therapy, revamp your wardrobe, and leave with your bags filled with newfound fashion gems.

34. Savor Farm-to-Table Delights

Prepare your taste buds for a culinary journey that celebrates the art of farm-to-table dining. In Manchester, a commitment to locally sourced ingredients and seasonal flavors is embraced by an array of exceptional restaurants.

The Reluctant Panther , a renowned establishment, is a prime example of this culinary philosophy. The menu is a symphony of flavors, where each dish is crafted with precision and care, showcasing the finest produce from nearby farms. Expect a harmonious blend of textures and tastes that highlight the essence of Vermont’s bounty.

Whether you’re savoring a perfectly seared steak, relishing a delicate seafood creation, or indulging in a decadent dessert, the farm-to-table experience elevates dining to a delightful and memorable affair.

33. Admire Northshire Bookstore

For book lovers and literary enthusiasts, Northshire Bookstore is a haven that invites you to lose yourself in a world of words. As you step inside, you’re greeted by towering shelves that house an extensive collection of books spanning a multitude of genres.

From bestsellers to hidden gems, fiction to non-fiction, Northshire Bookstore caters to every reading preference. Take your time perusing the aisles, discovering new releases, and relishing the comforting aroma of well-loved pages.

The ambiance of the store encourages leisurely exploration, with cozy reading nooks and inviting seating areas where you can delve into a new book or engage in thought-provoking discussions with fellow bibliophiles.

Whether you’re searching for a specific title or simply seeking inspiration, Northshire Bookstore is a sanctuary where the magic of literature comes to life.

32. Fly Fishing in Battenkill River

Calling all fishing enthusiasts: Battenkill River beckons with its pristine waters and abundant trout population, making it a paradise for fly fishing aficionados.

As you wade into the cool, clear current, you’ll be enveloped by the tranquility of nature. The rhythmic cast and reel, the anticipation of the catch, and the connection with the river’s ecosystem create an immersive and rewarding experience.

Whether you’re a seasoned angler honing your skills or a novice eager to learn, Battenkill River offers a serene escape from the bustle of everyday life. With the backdrop of the rolling Vermont landscape, every cast becomes a moment of connection with the environment, a reminder of the beauty and serenity that nature provides.

31. Discover American Museum of Fly Fishing

Delve into the captivating history and artistry of fly fishing at the American Museum of Fly Fishing . This institution is a tribute to the enduring legacy of a sport that transcends generations and cultures. Immerse yourself in a world of meticulously crafted flies, intricate rods, and historical artifacts that span the evolution of fly fishing.

From the earliest innovations to the modern techniques, the museum provides a comprehensive exploration of this revered pastime. Interactive exhibits and engaging displays offer a hands-on experience, allowing you to appreciate the craftsmanship and dedication that define fly fishing.

Whether you’re a seasoned angler or simply curious about the art, the American Museum of Fly Fishing is a journey of discovery that celebrates the intersection of sport, culture, and conservation.

30. Experience Southern Vermont Arts Center

Indulge your artistic inclinations at the Southern Vermont Arts Center , a hub of creativity and cultural expression. With its galleries showcasing a diverse array of visual art, from paintings and sculptures to mixed media and photography, the center is a testament to the region’s vibrant artistic community.

As you meander through the well-curated exhibitions, you’ll encounter thought-provoking pieces that inspire contemplation and dialogue. Engage with the work of both established and emerging artists, gaining insights into their creative processes and the stories behind their creations.

Beyond the galleries, the Southern Vermont Arts Center hosts workshops, lectures, and events that foster a deeper appreciation for the arts. Whether you’re a seasoned art connoisseur or a curious novice, this center provides a dynamic space where imagination knows no bounds.

29. Take a Scenic Drive on Route 7A

Embark on a picturesque journey along Route 7A, a winding road that leads you through some of Vermont’s most enchanting landscapes. As you navigate the twists and turns, you’ll be treated to vistas that showcase the region’s natural beauty in all its glory.

The route takes you past charming villages, historic sites, and breathtaking mountain views , providing ample opportunities to pause and capture the perfect photograph. Whether you’re driving in the warmth of summer or surrounded by the vibrant hues of fall, Route 7A offers a visual feast that captures the essence of Vermont’s idyllic countryside.

So roll down the windows, breathe in the fresh air, and let the road lead you to moments of serenity and awe.

28. Relax at Manchester Hot Glass

Unleash your inner artist and immerse yourself in the mesmerizing world of glassblowing at Manchester Hot Glass . Under the expert guidance of skilled artisans, you’ll have the opportunity to transform molten glass into unique and beautiful creations.

The studio itself is a haven of creativity, with the dance of flames and the radiant glow of molten glass captivating your senses. As you participate in a glassblowing workshop, you’ll gain a newfound appreciation for the intricate art form, mastering techniques that have been honed over generations.

The experience is both mesmerizing and empowering, allowing you to mold the glass into shapes and colors that reflect your imagination. Whether you’re crafting a delicate ornament, a vibrant vase, or a stunning piece of jewelry, the end result is a tangible representation of your artistic expression.

A visit to Manchester Hot Glass is not just a creative endeavor —it’s an opportunity to forge a connection with the ancient art of glassblowing and walk away with a tangible reminder of your time in Manchester. This is one of the best things to do in Manchester Vermont for art lovers!

27. Hit the Slopes at Bromley Mountain

Winter enthusiasts and adventure seekers, rejoice! Bromley Mountain beckons with its exhilarating slopes and family-friendly atmosphere, making it a premier destination for skiing and snowboarding.

Whether you’re a seasoned pro or new to the winter sports scene, Bromley offers terrain suitable for all skill levels . The mountain’s well-groomed trails wind through pristine forests, promising a thrilling descent with stunning views of the surrounding landscape.

Beyond the adrenaline-pumping runs, Bromley boasts a vibrant après-ski scene, with cozy lodges, inviting fireplaces, and hot cocoa that provide the perfect conclusion to a day on the slopes. Embrace the exhilaration of winter sports, create lasting memories on the mountain, and revel in the joy of gliding through the powdery snow at Bromley . This is definitely one of the best things to do in Manchester VT in the winter!

26. Experience Lye Brook Falls Trail

Lace up your hiking boots and embark on a memorable journey through the captivating Lye Brook Falls Trail . This moderate hike offers a perfect blend of nature’s wonders, as you traverse lush forests, meandering streams, and rocky terrain.

As you make your way deeper into the wilderness, the sound of rushing water grows louder, signaling your approach to the awe-inspiring Lye Brook Falls . Standing at an impressive 125 feet, the waterfall is a testament to the raw power of nature, offering a dramatic backdrop for photographs and moments of reflection.

Whether you’re seeking solitude, engaging in a family adventure, or simply reconnecting with the natural world, the Lye Brook Falls Trail promises a rejuvenating experience that celebrates the beauty and serenity of Vermont’s landscapes. This is one of our favorite things to do in Manchester Vermont in the summer!

25. Attend the Manchester Music Festival

Immerse yourself in the world of classical music at the esteemed Manchester Music Festival. Held annually, this cultural extravaganza draws talented musicians and music enthusiasts from near and far.

The festival showcases a diverse array of performances, ranging from orchestral masterpieces to intimate chamber music recitals. Whether you’re a seasoned aficionado or a newcomer to the classical music scene, the Manchester Music Festival offers an opportunity to be transported by the emotive power of music.

The historic venues, such as the Southern Vermont Arts Center and the Riley Center for the Arts, provide an enchanting backdrop for these harmonious soirées. So, don your finest attire, sit back, and let the symphonies and sonatas sweep you away into a realm of musical enchantment.

24. Taste Artisanal Cheese at Consider Bardwell Farm

Delight your taste buds with a journey into the world of artisanal cheese at Consider Bardwell Farm . Nestled amidst Vermont’s pastoral landscapes, this historic dairy farm has perfected the craft of cheese-making over the years.

The farm’s commitment to sustainable practices and humane animal care shines through in the exceptional quality of their cheeses.

Take a guided tour to witness the cheese-making process firsthand, from milking the goats and cows to crafting the final product. And, of course, the highlight of the experience is indulging in a cheese tasting that showcases a variety of flavors, textures, and pairings.

From velvety goat cheeses to savory cow’s milk selections, Consider Bardwell Farm provides a sensorial journey that captures the essence of Vermont’s agricultural heritage.

23. Enjoy Hiking at Mount Equinox

Elevate your outdoor adventure by conquering the majestic Mount Equinox , the highest peak in the Taconic Range. This exhilarating hike promises a panoramic reward at the summit, where sweeping views of Vermont’s undulating landscape stretch as far as the eye can see.

As you ascend the trail, you’ll traverse diverse ecosystems, from dense forests to rocky outcrops, encountering wildlife and taking in the scents of the wilderness.

The summit’s observation deck offers a prime vantage point to soak in the natural beauty that surrounds you, providing a sense of accomplishment that’s matched only by the awe-inspiring vistas.

Whether you’re a seasoned hiker seeking a challenge or a nature enthusiast craving a connection with the great outdoors, a hike up Mount Equinox is a transformative experience that leaves an indelible mark on your senses and soul.

This is definitely one of the top things to do in Manchester Vermont for active folks! It’s best done in the fall and spring for incredible views.

Check out more awesome hikes in Vermont here.

22. Visit Orvis Flagship Store

For those with a passion for outdoor pursuits, a visit to the Orvis Flagship Store is an absolute must. Immerse yourself in a haven of high-quality gear, apparel, and accessories that cater to the needs of anglers, hunters, and outdoor adventurers.

Explore the store’s expansive selection, from top-notch fishing equipment and rugged clothing to specialized gear that enhances your outdoor experiences.

But the Orvis experience extends beyond shopping; the store boasts a welcoming and knowledgeable staff who are more than happy to share their expertise and offer recommendations for your next outdoor escapade.

Whether you’re seeking to enhance your angling skills or gear up for a thrilling expedition, the Orvis Flagship Store is a hub of exploration and a testament to the enduring spirit of outdoor adventure.

21. Attend the Vermont Summer Festival Equestrian Event

For equestrian enthusiasts, the Vermont Summer Festival Equestrian Event is a hallmark of Manchester’s summer calendar. This six-week extravaganza celebrates the grace and athleticism of these magnificent animals through a series of riveting show jumping competitions, dressage performances, and engaging events.

The festival attracts riders and spectators from across the country, creating a vibrant and festive atmosphere that permeates the air. Whether you’re a seasoned rider marveling at the impeccable technique or a newcomer intrigued by the world of equestrian sports, the Vermont Summer Festival offers a front-row seat to witness the beauty of human and horse partnership in action.

Amidst the backdrop of the Green Mountains, this event captures the essence of Vermont’s equestrian heritage and is a testament to the enduring bond between humans and horses.

20. Discover History at The Dorset Quarry

Delve into the past and uncover a piece of Vermont’s industrial history at The Dorset Quarry . Once a thriving marble quarry that contributed to the region’s growth, the site has transformed into a popular swimming hole and local gathering spot.

As you immerse yourself in the refreshing waters, you’re surrounded by towering walls of marble that evoke a sense of awe and wonder. The quarry’s turquoise waters offer a picturesque contrast to the vibrant greenery that envelops the area.

Whether you’re taking a leisurely swim, picnicking by the water’s edge, or simply basking in the sun, The Dorset Quarry invites you to create lasting memories while honoring the heritage of a bygone era. This is one of our favorite things to do in Manchester VT in the summer!

19. Picnic at Dana L. Thompson Memorial Park

Experience the simple joys of outdoor leisure at Dana L. Thompson Memorial Park , a verdant oasis that invites picnicking, relaxation, and family fun. Spread out a blanket beneath the shade of towering trees and savor a leisurely meal surrounded by the beauty of nature.

The park offers an array of amenities, including playgrounds, sports courts, and walking trails, ensuring that every member of the family finds a source of enjoyment. Engage in a friendly game of frisbee, take a leisurely stroll through the well-maintained grounds, or simply unwind as the gentle rustling of leaves provides a soothing soundtrack to your day.

Dana L. Thompson Memorial Park is a haven of tranquility where cherished moments unfold against a backdrop of natural splendor.

18. Bike Along the West River Trail

Calling all cycling enthusiasts! Embark on a scenic adventure along the West River Trail , a captivating route that winds its way through verdant landscapes, charming towns, and picturesque riverbanks.

Whether you’re an avid cyclist seeking an exhilarating ride or a leisurely peddler in search of serene vistas, the trail caters to a range of preferences and skill levels. As you pedal, you’ll be accompanied by the gentle flow of the river and the symphony of birdsong that permeates the air.

The trail’s well-marked path ensures a seamless journey , allowing you to focus on soaking in the natural beauty that unfolds around every bend. With each turn of the pedals, you’ll forge a deeper connection with Vermont’s outdoors and create a tapestry of memories that celebrates the joy of exploration.

17. Attend the Manchester Fall Art and Craft Festival

Celebrate the vibrant hues of autumn and immerse yourself in the artistic spirit of Manchester at the annual Fall Art and Craft Festival. This seasonal extravaganza showcases a diverse array of handcrafted creations, from intricate jewelry and exquisite ceramics to captivating paintings and textiles.

As you peruse the booths and engage with the artisans, you’ll discover the stories and inspirations that breathe life into each masterpiece. The festival is a vibrant celebration of creativity, providing an opportunity to support local artists, find unique treasures, and revel in the joy of artistic expression.

Whether you’re seeking the perfect gift, decorating your home, or simply indulging in a visual feast, the Manchester Fall Art and Craft Festival promises a sensory experience that captures the essence of autumn’s enchantment.

16. Take a Relaxing Spa Day

Did you know that Manchester VT is known for its spas? Indulge in a blissful retreat for body and soul at one of Manchester’s luxurious spas.

The Equinox Resort & Spa , in particular, offers an oasis of relaxation where you can unwind, rejuvenate, and emerge with a renewed sense of well-being. Immerse yourself in a world of serenity as skilled therapists pamper you with an array of treatments designed to melt away tension and nurture your senses.

From soothing massages that knead away stress to invigorating facials that leave your skin glowing, each experience is a journey into pure indulgence. The spa’s tranquil ambiance, aromatic scents, and plush surroundings create an environment where worries fade and relaxation takes center stage.

Whether you’re seeking solace from a busy world or simply treating yourself to a day of self-care, a spa day in Manchester offers a sanctuary of tranquility that rejuvenates both body and spirit.

15. Explore Luminous Gardens

Embark on an ethereal journey through Luminous Gardens, an enchanting outdoor art installation that captivates with its interplay of light and nature. As daylight fades, the gardens come to life with a symphony of radiant sculptures that cast a soft and mesmerizing glow.

Created by skilled artists, these luminous artworks weave a narrative that dances between reality and fantasy, inviting you to explore a dreamscape of illuminated wonder. The gardens’ pathways lead you through a captivating realm of shimmering forms and colors, evoking a sense of wonder and awe.

Whether you’re strolling hand in hand with a loved one or embracing solitude amidst the soft glow, Luminous Gardens is a surreal and enchanting experience that celebrates the magic of light and art in a natural setting.

14. Golf at the Equinox Golf Resort

Tee off against the backdrop of Vermont’s breathtaking landscapes at the historic Equinox Golf Resort . With its picturesque fairways, manicured greens, and challenging layout, this championship golf course promises an unforgettable experience for golfers of all skill levels.

As you navigate the course, you’ll be enveloped by the serene beauty of the Green Mountains, where every swing is accompanied by the gentle rustling of leaves and the distant echo of birdcalls. The resort’s golfing amenities extend beyond the course itself, offering a pro shop stocked with top-quality equipment and a team of experienced professionals ready to assist you in perfecting your game.

Whether you’re aiming for a hole-in-one or simply enjoying a leisurely round with friends, a day on the links at Equinox Golf Resort is a testament to the harmonious marriage of sport and nature.

13. Attend the Manchester Summer Sounds Concert Series

Embrace the magic of summer evenings at the Manchester Summer Sounds Concert Series , a delightful celebration of music, community, and the joy of outdoor gatherings. Against the backdrop of Vermont’s scenic beauty, the series features a lineup of talented musicians who infuse the air with melodies that span genres and generations.

Spread out a blanket on the lush grass, surrounded by fellow music enthusiasts, and let the music wash over you in waves of harmony and rhythm. The concert series embodies the spirit of camaraderie, inviting neighbors and visitors alike to come together and revel in the simple pleasure of live music under the open sky.

From soulful ballads to upbeat tunes that inspire toe-tapping, the Manchester Summer Sounds Concert Series transforms warm summer nights into unforgettable memories of shared joy and connection.

12. Marvel at the Diverse Art at The Left Bank Gallery

Art enthusiasts will find their haven at The Left Bank Gallery, a hub of creativity showcasing an eclectic array of artworks. From paintings and sculptures to glasswork and jewelry, this gallery offers a diverse collection of pieces created by both local and nationally renowned artists.

Stroll through the gallery’s inviting space, soaking in the talent and imagination that grace its walls.

11. Experience the Charm of Manchester Farmers Market

Immerse yourself in the local flavors and culture by visiting the Manchester Farmers Market. Held during the warmer months, this vibrant market brings together farmers, artisans, and producers who offer a bounty of fresh produce, handmade crafts, and delectable treats.

It’s a wonderful opportunity to connect with the community, support local businesses, and savor the authentic tastes of Vermont.

10. Embark on a Horse-Drawn Carriage Ride

Step into the past and enjoy a leisurely horse-drawn carriage ride through Manchester’s scenic streets.

As you clip-clop along, you’ll be transported to a bygone era, surrounded by charming architecture and the natural beauty that defines the area. It’s a romantic and nostalgic experience that adds a touch of whimsy to your visit.

9. Discover Unique Finds at the Dorset Union Store

Experience the character of a classic country store at the Dorset Union Store . This historic establishment offers a delightful blend of old-world charm and modern conveniences. Browse its shelves stocked with artisanal products, local goods, and souvenirs that make for perfect keepsakes of your Manchester adventure.

8. Indulge in the World of Chocolate at Mother Myrick’s Confectionery

Satisfy your sweet tooth with a visit to Mother Myrick’s Confectionery , a local institution renowned for its delectable chocolates and confections. From truffles to toffees, every treat is handcrafted with care, offering a taste of pure indulgence. Take a guided tour of the confectionery to witness the intricate process behind these mouthwatering creations.

7. Stroll Through the Historic District of Manchester

Take a leisurely stroll through Manchester’s Historic District , where charming streets lined with historic homes and buildings invite exploration. As you wander, you’ll encounter architectural gems that reflect the town’s past, providing glimpses into its evolution and the stories of the people who once called these structures home.

6. Enjoy Tennis at Stratton Mountain Resort

For those with a passion for tennis, Stratton Mountain Resort offers an exceptional experience. Brush up on your skills or engage in friendly matches on well-maintained courts surrounded by lush greenery. Whether you’re a novice or an experienced player, the resort provides the perfect setting to enjoy the sport while soaking in the natural beauty of the area.

5. Immerse Yourself in Fall Foliage

Embrace the breathtaking beauty of Vermont’s renowned fall foliage by visiting Manchester during the autumn months. As the leaves transition into a vibrant array of red, orange, and gold hues, the entire town becomes a canvas of natural artistry. Capture the essence of this seasonal spectacle by embarking on scenic drives, hiking trails, or simply strolling through town.

4. Attend a Workshop at Southern Vermont Arts Center

Tap into your artistic side by participating in a workshop at the Southern Vermont Arts Center . From painting and ceramics to photography and sculpture, these workshops offer hands-on experiences led by talented instructors. Engage with your chosen medium, learn new techniques, and create your own masterpiece to cherish.

3. Relish Culinary Delights at Ye Olde Tavern

Experience the charm of an authentic 18th-century inn at Ye Olde Tavern , where history and gastronomy unite. Dine in a setting adorned with period furnishings and indulge in a menu that pays homage to traditional New England fare. The cozy ambiance and delectable dishes make for a memorable dining experience that transports you to a different era.

2. Discover Local Art at Helmholz Fine Art

Explore a world of creativity at Helmholz Fine Art, a gallery dedicated to showcasing contemporary works by both local and nationally recognized artists. From paintings to sculptures, the diverse collection captures the essence of artistic expression and offers a glimpse into the dynamic art scene of Manchester.

1. Marvel at the Beauty of Emerald Lake State Park

Escape to the tranquility of Emerald Lake State Park , where emerald waters and lush greenery create a picturesque setting for outdoor activities. Swim in the refreshing lake, hike scenic trails, or simply relax by the water’s edge and revel in the natural serenity that surrounds you.

Where To Stay In Manchester Vermont:

As you plan your getaway to the charming town of Manchester, Vermont, you’ll need the perfect accommodations to complete your experience. Fortunately, Manchester offers a range of exceptional hotels that cater to various preferences, whether you’re seeking rustic elegance, modern luxury, or a cozy inn with a touch of history.

Here’s a curated selection of the best hotels in Manchester that promise not just a place to rest your head, but an integral part of your memorable journey.

The Equinox Golf Resort & Spa :

Immerse yourself in the lap of luxury at The Equinox Golf Resort & Spa , a historic gem that blends modern amenities with timeless elegance. This resort boasts a rich heritage dating back to the 18th century and offers a variety of accommodation options, including well-appointed rooms and suites. Nestled amidst the beauty of the Green Mountains, The Equinox provides a gateway to outdoor activities , including golfing, spa indulgence, and even falconry. With upscale dining options, a rejuvenating spa, and access to the Equinox Preserve, this resort ensures a stay that’s nothing short of extraordinary.

The Reluctant Panther Inn & Restaurant :

For an intimate and charming escape, The Reluctant Panther Inn & Restaurant beckons with its boutique-style luxury. This historic inn features elegantly appointed rooms, each exuding a distinct personality and a blend of modern comfort and classic charm. The inn’s on-site restaurant offers a gourmet culinary experience that’s nothing short of exceptional. Indulge in farm-to-table delights prepared with artistry and passion, all within the warm and inviting ambiance of the inn. With its prime location in the heart of Manchester, The Reluctant Panther ensures a memorable stay that captures the essence of refined relaxation.

Kimpton Taconic Hotel :

Embrace a blend of rustic charm and contemporary elegance at the Kimpton Taconic Hotel , a haven that captures the spirit of Vermont’s countryside. The hotel’s design pays homage to the region’s natural beauty, with well-appointed rooms featuring modern amenities and cozy furnishings. Unwind by the fire pit, take a dip in the heated outdoor pool, or savor a gourmet meal at the on-site restaurant, The Copper Grouse . The Kimpton Taconic Hotel offers a sense of tranquility while being within walking distance of Manchester’s vibrant attractions.

The Inn at Manchester :

Experience quintessential Vermont hospitality at The Inn at Manchester , a historic retreat that embraces the warmth of a bygone era. With its charming rooms and suites, this inn offers an intimate and cozy atmosphere that instantly makes you feel at home. Enjoy a delicious homemade breakfast each morning and explore the inn’s picturesque grounds, complete with gardens and scenic views. The Inn at Manchester is a true escape from the ordinary, where personalized service and attention to detail create a stay that’s steeped in comfort and relaxation.

The Dorset Inn :

Step into the embrace of history at The Dorset Inn , a cherished establishment that holds the title of Vermont’s oldest continuously operating inn. With its period furnishings, antique charm, and modern amenities, this inn provides an authentic experience that pays tribute to the past while catering to present-day comforts. Indulge in delectable cuisine at the on-site restaurant, which showcases a menu inspired by seasonal ingredients and culinary artistry. Whether you’re seeking a romantic getaway or a retreat into yesteryears, The Dorset Inn offers a stay that’s steeped in tradition and enriched with modern conveniences.

Wilburton Inn :

Elevate your stay with a touch of grandeur at the Wilburton Inn , a stunning estate that exudes timeless elegance. This historic inn offers a variety of accommodations, from luxurious suites to charming cottages, each boasting unique décor and captivating views. With its expansive grounds, the Wilburton Inn is an ideal setting for relaxation and exploration, offering amenities such as a heated outdoor pool, lush gardens, and even an alpacery. Engage in lively conversations during afternoon tea, savor a gourmet breakfast, and bask in the regal ambiance that permeates every corner of this enchanting property.

The Manchester View :

Unwind amidst panoramic vistas at The Manchester View , a charming escape that offers breathtaking views of the surrounding mountains and valleys. The cozy rooms and suites provide a blend of comfort and serenity, allowing you to revel in the beauty of nature from the privacy of your accommodations. The Manchester View’s inviting atmosphere extends beyond its rooms, with an outdoor pool area that invites relaxation and moments of leisure. Whether you’re seeking a romantic getaway or a tranquil retreat, this inn ensures a stay that’s both picturesque and rejuvenating.

The Olympia Lodge :

For those who appreciate simplicity and affordability without compromising on comfort, The Olympia Lodge offers a welcoming respite. This family-owned lodge provides cozy rooms and a relaxed ambiance that embodies the spirit of Vermont’s hospitality. The Lodge’s central location allows easy access to Manchester’s attractions and activities, making it an ideal base for exploring the town. With its inviting charm and personalized service, The Olympia Lodge promises a stay that prioritizes warmth, convenience, and the opportunity to create cherished memories.

Where To Eat In Manchester Vermont:

No journey to Manchester, Vermont is complete without indulging in its vibrant culinary scene. From farm-to-table establishments that celebrate the region’s bounty to quaint cafes and gourmet restaurants, the town offers a gastronomic adventure that’s sure to tantalize your taste buds. Here’s a curated selection of some of the best restaurants in Manchester, where you can savor every flavor and create unforgettable dining experiences.

The Reluctant Panther Restaurant :

Nestled within The Reluctant Panther Inn , this restaurant is a culinary gem that embraces the farm-to-table ethos with finesse. Indulge in a dining experience that’s as exquisite as it is memorable, as the menu features an array of locally sourced ingredients transformed into delectable creations. From expertly prepared seafood to succulent steaks, each dish is a testament to the culinary team’s dedication to flavor and artistry. The elegant ambiance and impeccable service enhance the dining experience, making The Reluctant Panther Restaurant a must-visit for those seeking refined flavors in a charming setting.

The Copper Grouse at Kimpton Taconic Hotel :

For a taste of modern American cuisine infused with local Vermont flair, look no further than The Copper Grouse . Situated within the Kimpton Taconic Hotel , this restaurant offers a menu that highlights seasonal ingredients and creative interpretations of classic dishes. From hearty breakfast options to inventive small plates and hearty entrees, The Copper Grouse caters to every palate and preference. The inviting atmosphere and rustic-chic décor add to the overall dining experience, creating a space where culinary innovation and comfort seamlessly converge.

Seasons Restaurant at The Equinox Golf Resort & Spa :

Elevate your dining experience at Seasons Restaurant , a culinary haven located within The Equinox Golf Resort & Spa . With its panoramic views of the surrounding mountains, this restaurant offers a setting that’s both awe-inspiring and inviting. The menu features a harmonious blend of regional and global flavors, with an emphasis on seasonal ingredients sourced from local farms. Whether you’re savoring a gourmet breakfast, enjoying a leisurely lunch, or indulging in a candlelit dinner, Seasons Restaurant promises a culinary journey that captures the essence of Vermont’s natural beauty.

The Dorset Inn Tavern :

Step into the warm embrace of The Dorset Inn Tavern , a historic establishment that offers a quintessential New England dining experience. This cozy tavern exudes charm, with its exposed beams, crackling fireplaces, and a menu that pays homage to traditional comfort food. From hearty stews and classic burgers to fresh seafood and delectable desserts, every dish is crafted with a touch of nostalgia and a commitment to quality. Pair your meal with a selection from the extensive wine list or a locally brewed craft beer, and you’re in for a memorable evening that celebrates both culinary artistry and Vermont’s hospitality.

Silver Fork :

For an intimate and refined dining experience, Silver Fork offers a gourmet journey that tantalizes the senses. This elegant restaurant embraces a seasonal and sustainable approach to cuisine, with a menu that evolves to showcase the freshest ingredients available. Each plate is a work of art, reflecting the chef’s dedication to both flavor and presentation. Whether you’re savoring innovative appetizers, sipping on thoughtfully crafted cocktails, or indulging in sumptuous entrees, Silver Fork creates an ambiance that’s ideal for romantic dinners, celebrations, and cherished moments with loved ones.

Up For Breakfast :

Begin your day with a visit to Up For Breakfast , a beloved local institution that’s become a cherished breakfast spot in Manchester. This charming eatery serves up hearty and creative breakfast fare that’s designed to fuel your adventures. From fluffy pancakes and savory omelets to mouthwatering breakfast sandwiches, Up For Breakfast offers a diverse menu that caters to all tastes. The friendly and laid-back atmosphere adds to the appeal, creating a space where you can enjoy a leisurely morning while savoring delicious comfort food.

Ye Olde Tavern :

Step back in time at Ye Olde Tavern , a historic dining establishment that’s been a staple in Manchester since the 18th century. The tavern exudes old-world charm, with its period décor, antique furnishings, and a menu that pays homage to classic New England cuisine. From hearty soups and savory pies to tender roasts and decadent desserts, the dishes at Ye Olde Tavern evoke a sense of nostalgia while celebrating the timeless flavors that have delighted generations. Whether you’re seeking a taste of history or simply craving a comforting meal, this charming tavern provides an authentic dining experience that’s steeped in tradition.

SoLo Farm & Table :

Experience the rustic elegance of SoLo Farm & Table , a culinary gem that showcases the finest ingredients from the region’s farms and purveyors. This restaurant’s commitment to farm-to-table dining is evident in every dish, with flavors that reflect the changing seasons and a menu that highlights the beauty of simplicity. From creative appetizers to indulgent main courses, SoLo Farm & Table offers a dining experience that’s both sophisticated and approachable. The inviting setting, complete with a charming farmhouse ambiance, invites you to savor every bite and embrace the art of slow, mindful dining.

When To Visit Manchester VT:

As you embark on your journey to the enchanting town of Manchester, Vermont, you’ll undoubtedly find yourself wondering: When is the best time to experience all that this picturesque destination has to offer? The truth is, Manchester’s allure is ever-present, each season casting its own unique spell on the landscape and providing a myriad of experiences that cater to different tastes and preferences. Let’s delve into the distinct charms of each season to help you decide when to plan your visit.

Spring (April – June): As the snow melts and the first buds of green begin to emerge, spring unfurls a tapestry of color and renewal across Manchester’s landscapes. The months of April through June are a time of awakening, as nature comes to life with vibrant blooms and the promise of warmer days.

Spring is ideal for outdoor enthusiasts seeking to explore the town’s lush trails, as well as for those who wish to partake in gentle strolls through the picturesque Manchester Village. The tranquil beauty of Hildene, the Lincoln Family Home , is particularly captivating during this season, with its gardens in full bloom and panoramic views of the Battenkill Valley.

Summer (July – August): The summer months bring forth a symphony of activity and warmth, making them a popular choice for travelers seeking a vibrant and energetic experience. With the Green Mountains as a backdrop, Manchester transforms into a playground for adventure seekers and culture enthusiasts alike.

Attend the Vermont Summer Festival Equestrian Event, immerse yourself in the world of classical music at the Manchester Music Festival, or enjoy the vibrant atmosphere of the Manchester Summer Sounds Concert Series . Outdoor activities such as hiking , cycling, and horseback riding are in full swing, allowing you to explore the natural beauty of the region under clear blue skies. There are so many things to do in Manchester Vermont in the summer that it’s hard to choose!

Fall (September – October):

When fall arrives in Manchester, it paints the landscape with a breathtaking palette of gold, amber, and crimson hues. This is the time when the town truly shines, as the stunning foliage attracts visitors from far and wide. The months of September and October offer a front-row seat to one of nature’s most spectacular shows, with the Green Mountains adorned in vibrant colors.

There are plenty of things to do in Manchester Vermont in the fall. Engage in leaf-peeping adventures along scenic drives or hiking trails , and be sure to attend the Fall Art and Craft Festival to experience the creative spirit of the season. Fall is also a wonderful time for romantic getaways, as the cozy inns and charming ambiance create an intimate atmosphere for couples.

Winter (November – March):

When winter blankets Manchester in a layer of snow, the town transforms into a winter wonderland that appeals to those seeking both outdoor thrills and cozy escapes. And there are still plenty of things to do in Manchester Vermont, even in the colder winter months!

From hitting the slopes at Bromley Mountain or nearby Stratton Mountain to engaging in snowshoeing and cross-country skiing adventures, the winter months offer a playground for snow enthusiasts.

After a day of outdoor fun, explore the town’s boutiques, art galleries, and cafes, or immerse yourself in the warmth of a spa day at The Equinox Resort & Spa . The holiday season adds an extra layer of magic, with festive events and decorations that turn Manchester into a charming holiday retreat.

In conclusion, the best time to visit Manchester, Vermont truly depends on your preferences and the experiences you wish to embrace. Whether you’re captivated by the vibrant blooms of spring, the lively energy of summer, the captivating foliage of fall, or the enchantment of a winter wonderland, Manchester offers a year-round tapestry of moments waiting to be discovered. Whatever season you choose, you’ll find yourself immersed in the town’s rich history, natural beauty, and warm hospitality, creating memories that will last a lifetime.

FAQs About Visiting Manchester Vermont:

What makes Manchester, Vermont a popular travel destination?

Manchester’s picturesque landscapes, charming town center, outdoor activities, cultural events, and rich history make it a sought-after destination for travelers seeking a blend of relaxation, adventure, and cultural experiences.

What are some must-visit outdoor attractions in Manchester?

Don’t miss Equinox Preserve for hiking , Battenkill River for fishing , and the West River Trail for cycling . The picturesque Manchester Village also offers leisurely strolls amidst historic architecture.

Are there any family-friendly activities in Manchester?

Absolutely! Families can enjoy horseback riding, visiting the Northshire Bookstore , exploring the Southern Vermont Arts Center , and participating in glassblowing workshops .

What cultural experiences does Manchester offer?

There are plenty of things to do in Manchester VT that offer cultural experiences. Manchester hosts the Vermont Summer Festival Equestrian Event, Manchester Music Festival, and Fall Art and Craft Festival. These events showcase the town’s rich artistic and equestrian heritage.

What are some recommended places to stay in Manchester?

The Equinox Golf Resort & Spa , The Reluctant Panther Inn , Kimpton Taconic Hotel , and The Inn at Manchester offer diverse accommodations, from luxury resorts to cozy inns. Hotels are a whole vibe and simply staying in is one of my favorite things to do in Manchester Vermont, so I recommend that you spend the bulk of your budget on a great hotel.

Where can I find the best dining options in Manchester?

For an upscale experience, try The Reluctant Panther Restaurant , Seasons Restaurant at The Equinox , or The Copper Grouse . If you’re looking for local flavor, consider The Dorset Inn Tavern .

What can I do during the winter months in Manchester?

Winter enthusiasts can hit the slopes at Bromley Mountain or nearby Stratton Mountain , enjoy snowshoeing or cross-country skiing, and explore the town’s cozy shops and cafes.

How can I immerse myself in Manchester’s history?

Visit The Dorset Quarry , explore Hildene (the Lincoln Family Home) , and discover the historical significance of the town’s charming architecture.

Are there any unique experiences in Manchester that I shouldn’t miss?

Don’t miss glassblowing at Manchester Hot Glass , a visit to Luminous Gardens for an enchanting art installation, and indulging in a relaxing spa day at The Equinox Resort & Spa .

Can I enjoy live music and entertainment in Manchester?

Yes, you can attend the Manchester Summer Sounds Concert Series and enjoy live music events at various venues, adding a touch of melody to your visit.

Are there opportunities for outdoor adventures in Manchester?

Absolutely! Enjoy hiking at Mount Equinox , explore Lye Brook Falls Trail , and embark on biking adventures along the West River Trail .

What makes Manchester a great destination for couples and romantic getaways?

Manchester’s scenic beauty, charming inns, intimate dining options, and romantic ambiance create an ideal setting for couples to connect and create cherished memories.

How can I learn more about Vermont’s agricultural heritage?

Consider Bardwell Farm offers guided tours and cheese tastings, providing insights into Vermont’s artisanal cheese-making tradition.

What shopping experiences can I enjoy in Manchester?

Manchester is known for its designer outlets, boutiques, and art galleries, making it a shopping haven for fashion enthusiasts and art aficionados.

How do I make the most of Manchester’s natural beauty?

Engage in outdoor activities, such as hiking, biking, and horseback riding, or simply take leisurely walks through the town’s gardens and trails. There are  so many things to do in Manchester Vermont to enjoy the natural scenery.

Can I enjoy winter sports in Manchester even if I’m a beginner?

Yes, Bromley Mountain offers slopes suitable for all skill levels, making it an excellent choice for both novice and experienced skiers and snowboarders. There are surprisingly plenty of things to do in Manchester Vermont in the winter, whether or not you’re active.

What are some options for spa and wellness experiences in Manchester?

Indulge in rejuvenating treatments at The Equinox Resort & Spa or embrace the tranquility of nature with outdoor activities like hiking and yoga.

How can I learn more about Manchester’s equestrian heritage?

Attend the Vermont Summer Festival Equestrian Event to witness impressive show jumping competitions and dressage performances.

Can I explore Manchester on a budget?

Yes, enjoy free outdoor activities like hiking and exploring local parks, or visit the Northshire Bookstore and Manchester Designer Outlets for unique experiences without breaking the bank.

Whether you’re a nature lover, a history enthusiast, a culinary explorer, or a seeker of relaxation, Manchester, Vermont has something to offer for every type of traveler. Plan your visit and embrace the rich tapestry of experiences that await in this charming and captivating destination.

Similar Posts

20 Best Hot Springs in Colorado To Swim In Year Round

The 16 Best Restaurants in Juneau, Alaska

The 15 Best Hikes in San Diego

22+ Best Things To Do In Boston In The Winter From A Local

The 20 Most Beautiful Mountains In Oregon

13 Best Restaurants in Lincoln, New Hampshire

15 Best Things To Do In Manchester VT

by Mark and Kristen Morgan

Published: August 12, 2021

Vermont is enviably overflowing with stunning, quaint and charming four season tourist resort towns. Stowe and Burlington in the North, Woodstock in the Center and Manchester in the South are four of the most popular places to visit in Vermont . We’re going to show you the 15 best things to do in Manchester, Vermont to help you make the most of your visit.

The Green Mountain town of Manchester is split into two ‘sections’. One part is the old town, with postcard perfect New England architecture and an old world feel. The other is Manchester Center, which is a newer and more modern part of town filled with shops and restaurants.

Manchester is idyllically located in the heart of Southern Vermont’s beautiful Green Mountain National Forest. It is easy to reach from New York City, Boston, Montreal and most of the US Northeast.

One of the most appealing aspects of a visit to Manchester, VT is how it seamlessly adapts to each season of the year. Hiking and outdoor activities in Spring and Summer, spectacular New England Fall foliage in Autumn and skiing in a Manchester Winter wonderland around Christmas.

Let’s get right into the best things to do in Manchester, Vermont!

Top Tips For Visiting Manchester, VT

Before we jump into the best things to do in Manchester VT, let’s take a quick look at some our top tips for you to consider when planning your trip:

• Accommodation is varied and affordable in Manchester
• Book in advance to get the best deals for your budget range
• Fall is just as busy as Summer thanks to beautiful autumnal foliage
• One action packed day is enough time to see and do everything in Manchester
• Both Bromley and Stratton ski resorts are near Manchester
• Expect regular rainfall if visiting for Fall foliage season
• Be sure to drive around the local countryside for best scenery
• Manchester is the perfect stop on USA road trips through Vermont or New England

Best Things To Do In Manchester, Vermont

1. Drive The Skyline Auto Toll Road To Equinox Mountain Summit

Mount Equinox is the tallest peak in the Taconic Range and second highest in Southern Vermont. You can either hike to its summit (which we will talk about later), or you can take the much more relaxing and less exhausting route up by driving the auto toll road.

Skyline Drive is the longest privately owned paved toll road in the US. You will climb 3,250 ft in just over 5 miles and unlike many similar mountain summit toll roads in the US northeast, Skyline Drive is a wide 2 lane road.

The road was completed in 1947 and visitors to Manchester, VT have been driving to the summit of Equinox Mountain for decades.

Why? Well, because the 360 degree panoramic views from 3,648ft are remarkable.

• To the East you can see much of the Green Mountains, Vermont and even the White Mountains of New Hampshire.
• Turn to the West for views over New York’s Adirondack Mountains.
• And to the South you can soak up vistas over the Berkshire Mountains of Massachusetts.

Phew, that’s a lot of view!

The drive itself is steep with multiple switchback style corners but the road is wide and easy to navigate. Plenty of pull overs along the way provide places to enjoy views and take things slowly.

In Summer you will see an ocean of emerald green in all directions. However, Mount Equinox Skyline Drive is most beautiful in Fall, when Autumnal foliage colors illuminate Vermont’s valleys.

The toll road is open from Memorial Day to October 31st from 9am – 5pm daily. However, bad weather will close the road and the last vehicle is admitted at 4pm.

Mount Equinox Skyline Drive prices:

• Vehicle and driver – $20
• Additional passenger – $5 each
• Motorcycles – $20
• Children under 10 – Free

Find more information about Mount Equinox Skyline Drive .

2. Look Around Hildene, The Lincoln Family Home

One of the truly unmissable things to do in Manchester VT is take a guided or self guided tour around the grounds of the Lincoln Family Home, Hildene.

This estate is entirely unique and one of a kind. It housed the descendants of Abraham Lincoln until as late as 1975.

The important thing to note first is that this was not Abraham Lincoln’s house. It was in fact built by his only surviving son with Mary Todd Lincoln, Robert Lincoln in 1905.

However, that doesn’t take anything away from how beautiful the estate is today. The Georgian Revival mansion and surrounding grounds are stunning, peaceful and relaxing.

You can walk around Robert and Mary’s home, learn about Robert’s Pullman company, explore curated gardens, stroll along forested trails and visit the Hildene dairy farm.

For obvious reasons, the busiest and most picturesque period is during peak fall foliage season around mid September to mid October.

No guided tours will be available during covid restrictions and opening hours are reduced to Thursday – Monday between 10.00am – 4.30pm.

Admission rates:

• Adults: $23
• Ages 6-16: $6
• 5 and under – Free
• Guided tours cost an additional $7.50 per person (note – they will not be available during covid restrictions).

Find more information about visiting Hildene, the Lincoln Family Home .

3. Explore Manchester Village Historic District

Most amenities, shops and restaurants in town are located in the newer, more modern but less beautiful Manchester Center region.

One mile to the Southwest, Manchester historic village district is where you should spend an hour walking along gorgeous tree lined sidewalks.

Soak up valley views, admire diverse architecture and don’t miss the strikingly attractive First Congressional Church of Manchester.

The quaint, historic are sparsely populated main street looks even more appealing when fall foliage colors are radiating burnt oranges and golden yellows.

A number of the classiest hotels in Manchester, VT are located here in the historic district, along with some of the top rated restaurants in town.

4. See The American Museum Of Fly Fishing Museum In Manchester, VT

For anyone interested in fishing, history or the great outdoors, you must visit the American Museum of Fly Fishing.

This is one of the top fishing museums in the US, featuring a collection of 1,200 reels, 22,000 flies and over 1,400 rods.

Throw in an ever changing exhibition program, art and photographs documenting the history and preservation of fly-fishing and you have a perfect museum for fishing enthusiasts.

The museum is located inside a lovely farmhouse between Manchester old and new town, with plenty of parking available.

Opening hours are Tuesday – Sunday from 10.00am – 4.00pm.

• Ages 5-14: $3
• Under 5’s: Free

See more information about the Manchester, VT American Museum of Fly Fishing .

5. Don’t Miss Popular Northshire Bookstore

One of the most popular places to visit in Manchester, VT is Northshire Bookstore. If you enjoy reading or browsing bookstores, this is the one place you can’t miss in town.

Northshire is a beloved and intrinsic bookstore that has been owned by the Morrow family since 1976. However, in 2021, the bookstore was sold to the French family, who have also played a huge role in the local Manchester community for over 20 years.

That community and family feel of Northshire Bookstore is what makes it so famous and that looks set to continue under new ownership. It is more than just a place to buy a book, the store represents an important cultural and social institution within Manchester.

Prepare to lose yourself for hours in one of the largest independent bookstores in all of New England. The digital age has changed the way we read, but there’s nothing like getting your hands on a brand new paperback. That smell when you first flick through the pages!

Opening hours are 10.00am – 7.00pm daily and the store is located right in the center of town on the traffic circle.

See more information about Northshire Bookstore .

6. Buy Fresh Produce At Dutton Farm Stand

From one local business to another, don’t miss out on the best farm to table produce in Manchester, VT at Dutton Farm Stand, on the East side of town.

You can pick up a few bottles of Vermont wine and apple cider to take back to your hotel room or grab some delicious baked goods to eat before you take on a local hike.

If you have a kitchen in your accommodation, this is the place to buy your fresh fruits, vegetables, jams, cheeses and maple syrup.

They even have goats roaming around the land for the kids to see. If you’re looking for anything classic Vermont to take home at the end of your vacation, you will find it all here.

7. Collect Covered Bridges Near Manchester, VT

Collecting Covered Bridges is one of the most sought after things to do on any visit to Vermont and you do have a handful of stunning bridges within striking distance of Manchester.

The historic and intricate timber structures are incredibly fun to find, compare and appreciate. It’s the perfect New England thing to do on your vacation.

Some are long, others are short. They come in red, white and timber colors. Each bridge is unique and offers its own photography opportunity but some do have far superior backdrops.

The best part is finding a new bridge that you didn’t expect to see along a beautiful countryside road.

Here are just a few you can visit nearby:

• Bennington – Silk Road Covered Bridge, Paper Road Covered Bridge and Henry Covered Bridge.
• Arlington – Chiselville Covered Bridge and Arlington Covered Bridge.
• Towards Brattleboro – Scott Covered Bridge and Dummerston Covered Bridge.

See our guide to 7 Stunning Covered Bridges in Vermont for more information and photographs.

8. Visit Robert Frost Stone House Museum

Robert Lee Frost is one of the most celebrated and famous poets from the United States. Much of his work was based on rural life in New England in the early 1900’s and in 1961, Frost was named poet laureate of Vermont.

Frost lived in many places throughout his lifetime, including a stretch in England where his most notable works were first published, A Boy’s Will and North of Boston.

But it was New Hampshire, Vermont and Massachusetts in which he wrote and taught for most of his adult life. Frost spent the 1920’s living in a Dutch Colonial house built in 1769, located near Old Bennington, just a few miles from Manchester, VT.

Today his old house sitting on seven acres is a museum dedicated to the poet and his works from the time he lived in this stone house, notably ‘Stopping by Woods on a Snowy Evening’.

The museum is 18 miles southwest from Manchester and can be tied nicely in with some of the other things to do in this guide. Old Bennington Cemetery is very close to the museum and is where you can see Robert Frost’s burial site.

Opening hours for the museum are Thursdays – Mondays from 10.00am – 4.00pm.

• Adults: $10
• Seniors / Students: $6
• Under 18: $5
• Under 10: Free

See more information about Robert Frost Stone House Museum .

9. Admire The Bennington Battle Monument

Just 5 miles further South from Robert Frost’s Stone House you will find the awesome Bennington Battle Monument towering 306 ft high into the sky.

The limestone monument was completed in 1891 to commemorate the Battle of Bennington from August 16, 1777. This site is widely regarded as a major turning point in the Revolutionary War.

You can see the monument from miles around and it looks even better from up close. The entire area is neatly manicured and attractively curated.

There is an observation deck a way up, which provides spectacular views over Vermont, New York and Massachusetts.

Opening hours are May 1 – October 31 from 10.00am – 5.00pm daily.

• Ages 6-14: $1
• Under 6: Free

See more information about Bennington Battle Monument .

10. Be Blown Away By Radiant Fall Foliage Around Manchester, VT

Manchester is a place you can visit in any season and reap the benefits of that particular time of year. However, it’s hard to argue against Fall being the best time of year to visit.

The town is surrounded by endless miles of trees in the Green Mountains. So, when those trees turn during Autumn, you are looking at a kaleidoscopic landscape as far as the eye can see.

You can see the colors in Manchester but we highly recommend you jump in the car and just drive all around the local area.

Equinox Mountain summit is an obvious place to see the most open panorama but actually, you will find the colors are easier to see on quiet country roads in the Green Mountains.

You do need to be aware that mid September to mid October Fall is arguably the busiest time of year in Manchester and Vermont in general, which means hotels are booked early and prices are inflated.

But it is worth paying that little bit extra to be engulfed by staggeringly vibrant colors in one of the world’s premier Fall foliage destinations.

Need a hand planning your New England fall road trip? Our popular 40+ page New England Fall Road Trip Guidebook includes the 10 best places to visit (including Manchester VT) and 8 example itineraries ranging from 5-14 days to help you plan a successful leaf-peeping vacation.

11. Photography Locations Around Manchester, Vermont

Fall foliage moves us perfectly onto our next topic, where you should go to find the best photography locations.

Start by using this list of the best things to do in Manchester, VT. Equinox Mountain, Hildene, Manchester Village Historic District, Covered Bridges and Bennington Battle Monument all make for great photo ops.

Manchester isn’t as naturally photogenic as Stowe or Woodstock, but it does have beautiful and scenic countryside on its doorstep. So the key is to hit the country roads and find unique places to get your camera out.

If you have a drone, get it in the air. We drove out into the rural Green Mountains countryside and took some super quiet roads away from any buildings. Views are magic in Fall.

A note on using your drone when summiting Equinox Mountain – it is always extremely windy up there so bear in mind you might not be able to fly at the top.

The overwhelming majority of visitors to Manchester won’t have a drone, but that’s not a problem. You just need to find some higher ground in the surrounding hills.

12. Best Hikes Near Manchester, VT

Manchester isn’t typically associated with being home to amazing hikes but you might be surprised by how many great trails are nearby.

The first thing to mention is that most of the popular hikes in this area are rated as moderate or hard. There aren’t many (or any!) highly rated easy trails, unfortunately.

Lye Brook Falls is the number one hike near Manchester, VT but if you’re looking for a challenge, you have to take on Equinox Mountain.

• Lye Brook Falls a 4.4 mile out and back trail with almost 1,000 ft elevation gain, which isn’t too bad for those who are borderline easy / moderate level hikers. It’s worth the effort to see 125 ft tall Lye Brook waterfall, one of the highest in all of Vermont.
• Equinox Mountain is a 6.3 mile out and back with almost 2,900 ft of elevation gain, which is a huge amount of elevation for a short trail. Yes, that means it is one of those steep climbs that never seems to end. But the views and the accomplishment are well worth a grueling ascent.

If you will be staying a few days in Manchester and want to tackle more hikes, here are the best of the rest:

• Bromley Mountain – 6.2 miles
• Prospect Rock – 3.1 miles
• Gilbert’s Lookout – 4.3 miles
• Baker Peak Trail – 8.7 miles
• Styles Peak Trail – 2.9 miles

13. Eat and Drink Your Way Through Manchester, VT

Manchester is a popular tourist spot throughout the year and that’s great news for lovers of food. You will not go hungry on your visit to southern Vermont!

One thing to remember is places get booked up early in peak seasons and on weekends, so advanced reservations are a good idea. This is even more important during covid restrictions.

In Manchester Historic Village District, we recommend you check out the following restaurants:

• The Reluctant Panther
• The Silver Fork
• The Crooked Ram

Moving up into the more built up and commercialized Manchester Center, you have more choice but here are some of the top rated places to eat:

• Moonwink (Burmese)
• Sam’s Woodfired Pizza
• Bonnet & Main Cafe
• Christo’s Pizza & Pasta
• Ye Olde Tavern
• Zoey’s Deli
• Bob’s Diner

14. Stay In One Of Manchester’s Quaint Hotels

Just like with eateries, Manchester is filled with an excellent and diverse selection of hotel options for visitors.

In the historic village you will find luxurious accommodations and in the newer Manchester Center area you will find a mixture of more affordable options.

We have personally stayed at a wonderful and highly rated place called The Inn at Manchester , which was built in the 1880’s and is listed on the National Register of Historic Places. You will find white and red barns set on 4 acres surrounded by trees.

But there are plenty of other options spanning the budget range.

We have written a complete guide on where to stay in Manchester VT which you can read on our sister site Best Hotels Anywhere, or you can take a closer look at some of the top rated options below.

• Budget – Manchester View
• Mid Range – Hampton Inn & Suites
• Luxury – The Inn at Manchester

15. Go Skiing Near Manchester In Winter

Up to this point we’ve been undeniably bias towards visiting Manchester in Fall. But there are three other seasons you can visit southern Vermont with Winter being one of the best.

Ski resorts here aren’t as popular as in Stowe Mountain Resort in the North of Vermont. But in Bromley Mountain Resort and particularly Stratton Mountain Resort, you have two Winter sports arenas within 20 miles of Manchester.

Bromley Mountain Resort has 47 trails for downhill skiing and snowboarding, spread evenly across beginner, intermediate and expert.

Stratton Mountain Resort labels itself as the “best ski resort near NYC”. With 99 downhill trails, 12 cross country trails and 670 acres of total skiable terrain, it is a much larger resort.

There are very few hotels or amenities near both ski resorts, which means Manchester, VT is the place to be for the all important Apres-ski scene!

• See more about Bromley Ski Resort
• See more about Stratton Ski Resort

Map Of Best Things To Do In Manchester Vermont

• Red Markers – Locations of the best things to do in Manchester Vermont.

Click or touch the map to activate.

Zoom in and out, move around the map of Manchester VT to find each of the 15 best things to see and do in the area.

More From Vermont

• 7 Stunning Covered Bridges To See In Vermont
• 15 Best Things To Do In Stowe Vermont
• 15 Things You Can’t Miss In Woodstock Vermont
• 10 Best Things To Do In Burlington VT

Read our varied New England fall foliage road trip itineraries to plan your entire US northeast vacation in Autumn.

More From New England

• 13 Best Stops Along Kancamagus Highway Road Trip NH
• Flume Gorge NH Waterfalls And Covered Bridges Hike
• 17 Awesome Things To Do In Acadia National Park
• Where To Stay In Bar Harbor and Acadia National Park

We hope this guide to the best things to do in Manchester, Vermont helps you plan your visit!

Have you been to Manchester? What were your favorite things to do in the area?

Please let us know if you have any questions or need any help planning your visit in the comments below.

Happy Travels ,

Mark and Kristen

Was This Post Helpful? Pin It For Your Visit!

Note : This article contains affiliate links. When you make a purchase using one of these affiliate links, we may earn a small commission at no extra cost to you.

All Rights Reserved © Where Are Those Morgans, LLC. Republishing this article and/or any of its contents (text, photography, maps, graphics, etc.) in whole or in part is strictly prohibited.

Mark and Kristen Morgan are travel, hiking and photography experts. Over the last 6 years traveling full time, they have explored more than 40 countries and 30 US states.

Where Are Those Morgans has been featured in USA Today, Gestalten, Get Your Guide, CityPASS and Condé Nast Traveler along with various other publications. Read more about us .

2 thoughts on “15 Best Things To Do In Manchester VT”

Really interesting blog, I love to read blogs like this, it is interesting and well written, please keep on writing blogs like this.

Thank you Elena, have a great trip to Manchester, VT!

Leave a Comment Cancel reply

Subscribe to our newsletter

Get the latest in travel straight to your inbox

Click here to subscribe

24 Best Things to Do in Manchester VT in 2024!

• Latest Posts

• 21 Family Vacations in New England for Every Season (2024) - February 26, 2024
• 15 Wonderful Weekend Getaways in Maine (2024) - February 3, 2024
• 33 Best Beach Towns in New England to Visit in 2024 🌊 - January 28, 2024

Manchester is one of the must-visit places in Vermont . From outdoor activities to great restaurants, from fishing and kayaking to literature and art, there are countless great things to do in Manchester, Vermont.

I’ve been exploring Manchester, Vermont for nearly 20 years. In 2004, my family moved to the area and though most of us have spread further around Vermont, we return to Manchester frequently. It’s a sweet Vermont village that combines rural charm with a bit of luxury.

Get ready for some insider tips and suggestions for the best things to do in Manchester VT!

Craving more New England travels? Check out our exclusive New England road trip itinerary and our handpicked list of the top destinations to visit in New England !

Table of Contents

Awesome Things to Do in Manchester VT and Nearby

1. explore downtown manchester.

One of the best things to do in Manchester VT is simply to explore its quaint downtown. There are lots of shops, restaurants, a general store, an iconic bookstore, a waterfall. I could go on and on. (And I will later on in this travel guide!) Manchester is absolutely charming and has lots to see. 

As you walk down Main Street, you might even spot my favorite oddity: a storefront filled with cats! I guess it’s an architect or design store , but I’ve never had cause to go in. I’ve merely stood out front and cooed at the kitties!

2. Climb Mount Equinox (or drive up)

As soon as you enter Manchester’s cute downtown, you can’t help but notice the tall, rolling mountain in the background. This is Mt Equinox and it seems to hug the town protectively, and if you want the best views in Manchester, it’s where you’ll need to go.

It has given its name to many nearby things, including a hotel, country club, and an alternative radio station (WEQX). Sitting at an elevation of 3840 feet, it is not the tallest mountain in Vermont , but it is the highest in the Taconic Range.

You can get to the top of this impressive hill either on foot or by car. If you decide to tackle Mt. Equinox sans vehicle, you can take the trail that departs from just behind the high school (Burr & Burton Academy).

This Mount Equinox trail is a 6.8 mile round-trip hike that is steep and challenging. It is recommended most for intermediate to advanced hikers, or those in good shape who relish a challenge. That Equinox mountain view from the summit is well worth the climb.

Not feeling the hiking vibe? You can drive to the top of Mt Equinox, too. Drive a few minutes south of Manchester on Route 7A and you’ll find the entrance to Mount Equinox Skyline Drive . This route will take you to the summit of Mt Equinox.

The price, like the drive, is also a bit steep (pun intended!) The toll road will cost you $25 or $30 for the vehicle and driver (depending on time of year) and an additional $5 per passenger. In my experience, this is worth the cost, though! Please note Skyline Drive is only open from Memorial Day Weekend to October 31st.

Also, there’s fun at the base of Mount Equinox, too! The scenery at Equinox Pond is absolutely unparalleled when the fall foliage is bursting into color around the water.

3. Visit the West Arlington Covered Bridge

Seeing Vermont’s famous covered bridges is an essential activity on any Vermont vacation. Just 15 minutes south of Manchester, you’ll find one of the best ones!

When you head to the West Arlington Covered Bridge, you will admire a classic Norman Rockwell scene . With a covered bridge, old church, and wide open fields, this pastoral area is not only one of the most highly photographed in Vermont, but Norman Rockwell himself used to live right here! It’s no surprise he painted such iconic pictures when he had landscapes like this surrounding him!

As a side note, I used to live about 3 minutes away from this bridge. So you could kind of say that Norman Rockwell and I were almost…neighbors? Just a century or so apart!

4. Play Pinball!

Did you grow up playing in arcades? You can jump into the past at Pastime Pinball in Manchester Vermont. There are more than 60 classic games available in this space, and they’re all set to free play! You just may a flat entry fee at the door.

You and the whole family can have a great time playing together on their fantastic pinball machines. Add this to the list of things to do in Manchester VT on a rainy day.

5. Browse one of New England’s best independent bookstores: Northshire Bookstore

Manchester is home to one of my favorite bookstores in New England , the Northshire Bookstore.  This is an independent bookstore that has been in business for decades. Before opening as the Northshire in 1976,  this Main Street building housed an inn.

Today, the bookstore is a cozy, inviting shop that makes you want to browse for HOURS. There are thousands of great books lining the shelves, including discounted used books. This Manchester bookstore is arranged in sections, and you’ll find special sections for bookseller recommendations, local Vermont books, and more.

Quirky gifts, Vermont-themed souvenirs, and eco-friendly clothing round out the offerings.  The entire 2nd floor is dedicated to an adorable Children’s Section.

The bookstore regularly hosts events with well-known authors, so it’s worth checking out their calendar during your trip to Manchester VT.

PS: While there is so much to do in Manchester, there are also nearby towns and areas that offer their own worthwhile attractions. These include Londonderry, Dorset, Bennington , Weston, Chester , and Arlington. Consider doing one of these as a day trip from Manchester!

6. Visit Hildene, the Lincoln family home

If you like historic homes—or a bit of presidential history—you may want to visit Hildene.  This stately 1905 mansion was once the home of Robert Todd Lincoln, the only surviving son of President Abraham Lincoln and his wife Mary Todd Lincoln.

Hildene offers a glimpse into life at the turn of the century and touring this historic home is one of the top family things to do in Manchester Vermont. The rooms are filled with history and there are sections devoted to Lincoln himself. Though the 16th president never set foot in Hildene, his legacy is certainly present.

Of all the cool things at Hildene, I thought these two items were the most incredible. In fact, I got chills seeing them! The first is one of Abraham Lincoln’s famous stovepipe top hats; the second is a mirror that hung in the Lincoln White House. And according to Hildene president Brian Keefe, this looking glass “was possibly the last place where Abraham Lincoln saw his own likeness before he was killed.” Amazing!

Hildene is about more than the mansion, too. The adjoining European style gardens are magnificent, and make for a sweet spot to walk around.

There are also impressive views out over the valley from behind the home. The 412-acre estate is also home to a working farm (with adorable goats!), extensive walking trails, and a 1903 Pullman train car exhibit, among other attractions.

NEXT: Want more on Vermont’s historic sites?

7. Enjoy flowers and farm fun at Equinox Valley Nursery

Head south on Route 7A out of Manchester’s shopping district, and it won’t be long before you find yourself in farm country. A few miles down the road you’ll find the Equinox Valley Nursery , which is a must-see part of the Vermont countryside.

This is the perfect seasonal destination when visiting Manchester in spring, summer, fall or winter, as the products and wares reflect the current season.

Fall is prime time to stop by Equinox Valley, as this is when a sprawling pumpkin patch takes over (one of my favorite Vermont pumpkin patches !). The nursery is filled with autumnal mums and tiny gourds waiting to turn your home into a fall wonderland; it’s definitely one of the cutest places to see in Manchester.

After wandering through the flowers and pumpkins, get lost in their tall, winding corn maze, and bite into some piping hot apple cider donuts, sweet and fresh from the fryer. This is especially good if you’re looking for family outdoor activities in Manchester VT in fall.

8. See the former home of New England’s top poet, Robert Frost

Are you a literary lover? One of the best things to do near Manchester VT is visit the old home of Robert Frost, New England’s most well-known poet. This is located in Shaftsbury, Vermont, and it is called The Robert Frost Stone House Museum.

Robert Frost is inextricably connected with New England, having written a great many poems focused on the nature and culture of the region, so if you’re looking for places to visit in Manchester with a cool historical connection, definitely consider the Stone House Museum.

You can see where he lived and wrote a few of his most well-known works, including “Stopping By Woods on a Snowy Evening.” So much of what he wrote was evocative of New England’s seasons, from snow-laden paths to stone walls and apple-picking.

You can also visit the resting place of Robert Frost. He is buried in Old Bennington Cemetery in Bennington , VT.

9. Visit the Southern Vermont Arts Center

Whether you’re an art aficionado or just have a vague passing interesting in the arts, the Southern Vermont Arts Center should be on your list of Manchester VT things to do! This is a quaint art museum set in a historic home, with an incredible array of outdoor sculptures that are uniquely interesting.

There’s a cafe onsite, as well.

10. Tube or paddle the Batten Kill River

One of our favorite outdoor things to do in Manchester VT is to enjoy the nearby length of river. The Batten Kill River snakes its way through Manchester, Arlington, and into New York state. The stretch along Route 313 is ideal for a short paddling or tubing trip. The river is typically gentle and not very deep, and makes for a peaceful, fun excursion on a hot Vermont summer day.

If you have your own tube, you can enter the river from the first bridge crossing over the river, just after where Route 313 intersects with Route 7A. Tube a couple hours downriver and exit at the covered bridge.

Don’t have a tube? No worries. There are several spots renting tubes throughout the height of summer. One of these is Battenkill Valley Outdoors which is located just over the border in New York state.

If it’s fall when you visit Vermont , you can still go paddling downriver (though tubing would be far too chilly), or simply admire the gorgeous foliage fringing the Battenkill.

Fall in Manchester VT is absolutely gorgeous.

11. Learn how to drive off-road with the Land Rover Experience

Have you ever wanted to drive off-road like a rugged badass? The Land Rover Experience , through the Equinox Resort, can make this happen for you. Options range from a 25-minute adventure ride to a full day incredible experience. Learn to drive the versatile Land Rover and encounter all kinds of terrain in all seasons and weather.

You’ll learn how to tackle obstacles and generally have an awesome time driving in the woods of Manchester, Vermont. Our friends at Nothing But New England wrote about their own take on the Land Rover experience here; this would definitely be a unique Manchester VT experience!

12. Hike to Lye Brook Falls

Hiking is a must-do activity in Vermont and Manchester is no exception. There are a range of popular hikes you could experience, but Lye Brook Falls is a easy to moderate day hike that comes with a great reward: one of Vermont’s prettiest waterfalls !

Your destination is the picturesque Lye Brook Falls, towering in the woods and tumbling 125 feet down a rocky ledge. Many people recommend Lye Brook Falls as a great family hike, so if you’re looking for things to do with kids in Manchester VT, you should add this to the list. This 4.7 mile out and back trail takes about 3 hours to complete from start to finish.

A late spring visit, such as in early May, may be when the falls are at their fullest, but beware a wet and muddy trail if heading out in spring.

Some other popular hikes near Manchester include Prospect Rock Trail, Little Rock Pond Trail, and various options at Equinox Preservation Trust.

13. Enjoy a trail ride or sleigh ride on horseback

When searching for Manchester VT’s top things to do, what could be more quaint than a horse-drawn adventure? In the winter months, you can take a traditional sleigh ride through the snow.

For a horse-drawn sleigh ride, check out Taylor Farm , just up the road in Londonderry, VT. They offer traditional box-style sleigh rides pulled by impressive Belgian draft horses. Blankets are provided on every ride.

The sleigh rides last for approximately 45 minutes including a fireside stop in the woods with beautiful views; definitely one of the top things Londonderry VT is known for in winter.

In any season, head over to Mountain View Ranch in Danby, VT for a guided trail ride. These rides are perfect for travelers of all ages and abilities and you’ll enjoy beautiful views as you ride your trusty steed through Vermont’s woods.

Read Next: Where to Go Horseback Riding in Vermont: Guided Trail Rides & More!

14. Eat at Up for Breakfast

While there are several great places to grab a yummy breakfast in Manchester, VT , I highly recommend the adorable Up for Breakfast. Located—you guessed it—upstairs, this cozy eatery is always hopping in the mornings. Since it is small, it fills up easily, so the earlier you can get up (literally!) the better. Don’t miss their yummy flavored coffees and plentiful breakfast staples like pancakes with Vermont maple syrup!

15. Relax at Emerald Lake

Just north of Manchester is a beautiful lake, fringed with green. The aptly named Emerald Lake State Park is home to one of the prettiest lakes near Manchester VT and is the perfect place to swim, sunbathe, or go for a paddle.

I went here countless summer days with my family and it’s absolutely lovely. It’s shallow enough in parts for floating and swimming with kids, but also worth exploring by boat.

If you want to have a Vermont summer adventure, rent one of the available kayaks, canoes, or paddleboards for an hour or so. The lake is small enough to explore all sides of it. 

After your done, take a walk on some of the nature trails surrounding the lake. Whatever you choose to do at Emerald Lake, you’ll be enjoying beautiful views in all shades of green.

16. Grab a latte at Charlie’s Coffee House

I don’t travel anywhere in Vermont without seeking out the best maple latte. Well, I found it here at Charlie’s Coffee House in Manchester.

This is a cute Manchester coffee shop with pastries, sandwiches, and more, and if you’re lucky, you might see the shop’s namesake dog Charlie padding around looking for pats!

17. Pick up some fresh produce at the Dutton Farm Stand

On the hunt for farm-grown fruits, vegetables, and other products? Dutton Farm Stand is the perfect stop for these things while you’re in Manchester. It’s just up Route 11 toward Londonderry and you’ll find the bright, sunny farm stand surrounded by flowering plants and even the occasional goat or two.

Here you can find maple syrup, fudge, jams, apple cider, and a variety of fruits and veggies. In the summer months, stop by for some Pick-Your-Own opportunities.

18. Attend some fantastic theatre performances

There are several wonderful theatres in the area that can provide you with unparalleled entertainment. For the most part, summer through early fall is when you can enjoy professional productions in nearby Dorset and Weston, VT.

The Dorset Playhouse offers the Dorset Theatre Festival , a summer season of plays including several new works by renowned playwrights.

In Weston, roughly 30 minutes from Manchester, you’ll find the Weston Playhouse. This is a phenomenal summer theatre that presents a variety of shows including award-winning musicals. This is Broadway-caliber theatre and I can attest that I’ve seen some amazing productions here at Weston, including Hairspray, Rent , and Les Miserables .

19. Swim in the Dorset Quarry

The Dorset Quarry is one of the region’s most popular swimming spots. This 60-foot deep granite quarry offers cool, inviting waters for a summer swim, and plenty of high ledges for brave souls to jump from into the water, so if you’re in Manchester VT on a hot summer day wondering what is there to do nearby, here ya go!

The Quarry is also historic. It was the country’s oldest commercial marble quarry, first mined in 1785. Stone from the quarry was used in such buildings as the New York Public Library’s main branch as well as the Montreal Museum of Fine Arts.

20. Shop at Manchester Designer Outlets

Manchester Designer Outlets , or MDO, is the one stop shopping experience in Manchester VT that you might be looking for. Do designer brands like Armani, Michael Kors, and Ralph Lauren offered at outlet prices appeal to you? Then you definitely will want to spend a little time shopping in Manchester!

In fact Manchester’s outlets are quite well known and draw visitors from states away. Where else can you find luxury shopping set amidst a small, New England town backdrop?

21. Find adventure in Stratton

Many visitors use Manchester VT as a base for visiting Stratton Mountain Resort. Home to one of the best ski resorts in Vermont and so much more, there’s something going on at Stratton in every season.

In the winter, ski Stratton Mountain, the highest peak in Southern Vermont. It now boasts 99 trails across 670+ skiable acres of terrain. And it’s known as the birthplace of snowboarding; definitely one of the top things to do in Manchester VT in winter.

Summer is just as busy and fun with opportunities for mountain biking, golf, concerts, kayaking, hiking , and more fun Stratton VT things to do.

The alpine-esque Stratton Village is where you can gather with family and friends, dining at great restaurants and exploring fine shops.

22. Discover all things quaint and charming at the Vermont Country Store

About half an hour from Manchester in the town of Weston you’ll find the famous Vermont Country Store.

This is not just one of the top things to do in Manchester, Vermont, but, in so many ways, this is an essential attraction to visit during any Vermont trip. (There’s a second location in Rockingham, VT, but Weston’s store is the original).

The Vermont Country Store is filled with wares of all kinds that you’ll be poring over for hours. It’s a classic general store, but so much more.

In addition to plenty of shopping (think housewares, clothing, old-fashioned candy, Christmas decor, cozy blankets, and even beauty products) you can grab an ice cream or a meal on-site at Mildred’s Grill and Dairy Bar. Be sure to spend some time relaxing on the pretty grounds of the store as well.

Truly, this is one of those classic Vermont things to do that just can’t be missed!

If you’re visiting Manchester as part of a Vermont road trip, especially a road trip along Route 100 , you’ll pass the Vermont Country Store!

23. Check out the American Museum of Fly Fishing

Do you have a fisher in your midst? You’re going to want to check out the American Museum of Fly Fishing , then!

A variety of exhibits that cover the history and culture of fishing in the United States will keep the fishing aficionados in the family quite happy!

Places to Stay in Manchester VT

If you’re ready to plan your visit to Southern Vermont, we’ve rounded up some of the best places to stay Manchester VT offers, including our personal recommendation for the romantic Manchester hotel we stayed in and loved!

The Kimpton Taconic Hotel

The Kimpton Taconic Hotel is a beautiful and modern boutique hotel in a great location in historic Manchester village within walking distance to the popular outlet shops of downtown Manchester as well as within easy reach of delicious restaurants and major attractions/activities.

I have personally stayed here with my husband and it was a genuinely terrific experience.

The Taconic has an elegant-meets-rustic style, a cozy and homey place where you’ll want to relax by the roaring fireplace as you watch the falling leaves outside. Many of the rooms have their own fireplaces, which is extra perfect for a romantic getaway in Manchester; it would be absolutely ideal in the fall!

Don’t forget to check out the on-site restaurant The Copper Grouse which has incredible local flavors and awesome cocktails.

In the evenings, the Taconic provides guests with a complimentary glass of wine. This is a lovely time, the “social hour,” and my husband and I enjoyed sitting in rocking chairs on the wide porch and relaxing together near the fire pit.

Click Here to Check Prices & Book!

Aspen at Manchester

Looking for a great place to stay with the family in Manchester Vermont? Consider Aspen at Manchester , a family-run hotel on 9-acres offering rooms that are comfortably decorated with a rustic charm, some featuring spectacular views of Mt Equinox.

Amenities include an outdoor pool, a Great Lawn with lawn games and shuffleboard courts, seasonal fire pits, a gazebo, yoga mats for Sunrise and Sunset Yoga, complimentary grab and go breakfast, and more! Aspen at Manchester is an excellent choice if you’re looking for a great place to stay in Manchester VT with kids or without.

The Reluctant Panther

If you’re looking for romantic things to do in Manchester VT, consider booking a stay at The Reluctant Panther , one of the top spots for romantic getaways in Vermont! This adorable inn has 20 guest rooms and offers romantic features like fireplaces, marble baths, in-room massage, and nightly turndown service.

A generous home-cooked complimentary breakfast is provided each morning, but the Zagat-rated Main Dining Room is also available for dinner service, so gourmet dinner is on the table (he he!) here too.

Read Next: Romantic Vermont Getaways for Couples

Places to Eat in Manchester VT

In between all the fun things you’ll be doing when visiting Manchester, Vermont, you’re sure to work up an appetite, so if you’re wondering where the best restaurants in Manchester VT are, well, here are my top picks!

In the mood for a great burger? Consider Depot Street Burgers . Craving a hearty Vermont meal served up in a historic building? Check out Ye Olde Tavern . If it’s breakfast spots you’re looking for, there are several great options for breakfast in Manchester VT !

Despite being modest in size, Manchester Vermont has a lot of restaurants to choose from and it’s very unlikely that you will go wrong picking any of them.

There are so many fun things to do in Manchester VT, these are just a few ideas to get you going while you plan your next Manchester trip!

Read these next:

• 8 Charming Airbnbs in Vermont for an Amazing Stay
• 17 Cozy Cabins in Vermont to Book
• 20+ Fun Things to Do in Rutland VT
• 10 Perfect Campgrounds for Camping in Vermont
• 9 Best Spots for Glamping in Vermont

Home » Northeast » Vermont » 21+ Mind-Blowing Things To Do In Manchester VT You’ll Love

21+ Mind-Blowing Things To Do In Manchester VT You’ll Love

There are lots of fantastically diverse things to do in Manchester Village VT, with experiences ranging from American History to the Arts, to Outdoor Adventure, and more.

Once known for its Outlet Stores and golf at the age-old Equinox Resort, Manchester, Vermont is transitioning into a four-seasons soft adventure, “Sporting Weekend” hotspot.

The area affords opportunities to learn extreme off-road driving and fly fish on some of the country’s best trout rivers, all guided by experts in each field. And, of course, while visiting Manchester Vermont in the Green Mountains, hiking is a must.

There are nearly 50 lodging options, from the venerable Equinox to mountain cabin rentals, and almost as many eateries. Many of the outlet stores are still here, of course. Plus, there’s a brand-new Vermont Flannel shop.

But after scoring deals at Armani, Eileen Fisher, Orvis, and the like, stay a few days to visit Hildene, the American Museum of Fly Fishing, the Southern Vermont Arts Center, and so much more. We boil it down for you below.

Table of Contents

Things To Do In Manchester VT

Tour: hildene – robert todd lincoln family home.

In 1903, Robert Todd Lincoln, surviving son of President Abe Lincoln, built his summer home, HIldene , on 412 magnificent acres in Manchester – a popular summer escape for wealthy industrialists. As an attorney and President of the Pullman Company, Lincoln oversaw great strides in railroad car engineering.

Now, Hildene serves many purposes. It’s a working dairy farm, an artisanal cheese maker, an observatory, a study in post-Civil War African American society, a beautiful mansion, gardens, and more. Plan at least three hours here. 

Passed down the family line, Hildene fell finally into the hands of great-granddaughter Mary Lincoln Beckwith, who died in 1975.  Lincoln’s home, then in late-stage Grey-Gardens-like decrepitude, was saved by the newly organized preservation group called Friends of Hildene .

Since then, FOH has restored the home and gardens back to their former glory. It continues to establish programming and new attractions that are “modern but rooted in history.”

Ergo – a solar-powered dairy farm, greenhouses in which students study soil science and farm-to-table gardening, a “Pollinator Sanctuary,” a Bobolink preserve, and a 600-ft floating boardwalk over wildlife-rich wetlands.

Observatory With Working Telescope

Before walking into the house, climb a short path to the observatory, with views of the surrounding mountains. You can walk inside the small astronomical observatory. The still-working telescope, commissioned by Lincoln in 1909, remains trained at the sky.

Self-Guided Tours of Hildene

Start in the former carriage house, now a beautiful well-stocked Visitor’s Center, and then walk up to the main house. Docents are on hand to explain the artifacts and send you on your way to peruse the home at your own pace.

Read information panels within each room while listening to rousing music from the 1909 Aeolian Organ featuring 1,000 pipes hidden within staircase woodwork.

You’ll see Lincoln’s Pullman Car home office, some original wallpaper, and fresh flowers throughout the house, care of dedicated volunteer “Flower Ladies” who change out the blooms twice a week.

By all means, do not miss the Abraham Lincoln Exhibit upstairs. Incredibly, Hildene is home to one of Lincoln’s four surviving black top hats. It sits beneath what experts believe is the mirror the President used just before going to the Ford Theater on the night he was assassinated. Chills.

The Pullman Train Car Connection

Next, walk down the hill to “Sunbeam,” a fully restored 1903 Pullman Palace Car. Interpretive signage highlights 100 years of African American history from “Emancipation to Civil Rights Movement” (1863-1963). The exhibit is a platform for discussion about the advancement of African Americans following the Civil War.

Walk through a very plush burnished wood Pullman Executive Charter Car. The train exemplifies the height of luxury for the most elite white businessmen, who expected to be catered to by a private black porter and chef.

In this regard, the Pullman Company offered opportunities for black men to interact with successful white men. Porters took note of passengers’ speech patterns, and latest dress styles, heard the latest business news, and read the books they left behind.

However, though Pullman provided the best jobs for African Americans after the Civil War, they worked effectively 24/7 for very little pay. In most cases, tips only. It was grueling work that many compared to slave labor.

Jumping Baby Goats

Don’t leave Hildene before stopping at the Nubian goat barn, especially in the spring when the babies are jumping.

The public can observe the cheese-making process, from milking to packaging, at the Rowland Agricultural Center. And of course, you can buy the best chevre cheese on-site when available. Plan to spend at least half a day seeing everything.

DO: Land Rover Experience

Have you ever yearned to go “off-road” on rutted, muddy, puddled, boulder-strewn, nearly vertical paths? This is your chance. Manchester VT is one of only four places in North America where you can get behind the wheel of a Land Rover, instructor at hand, to do all of the above and more. (The other 3; Asheville at Biltmore House, Carmel CA at Quail Lodge, and Quebec at Chateau Montebello).

The Land Rover Experience teaches you the skills to tackle the toughest terrain, and is considered the “standard of Land Rover driving techniques and capabilities.” Best of all, it’s not “weather dependent.”

Snow, ice, torrential downpours – you’ll learn how to navigate the landscape in the cruelest of conditions. Amazingly, you can sign up to drive 365 days a year – yes, even on Christmas and Easter.

For one and two-hour sessions, head out with your own private coach. (In my case, it was Land Rover Experience Location Manager, David Nunn). On 80 acres, traverse up to 5 miles of trails, and “go walking” on uneven terrain.

This is the pace you’ll drive as you ascertain what the car can and can’t do. Riding over “Mud and Ruts” – basically dirt moguls – is a blast. The Half Day and Full Day sessions bring you out to Mount Equinox for true off-road mountain driving. Intoxicating for anyone who loves a driving challenge.

Though located on Equinox property, you don’t have to be a guest of the hotel to sign up.  Sessions range from one hour ($275) to a full day ($1,500, including lunch and driving lessons for 3 people) .

VISIT: American Museum of Fly Fishing

The American Museum of Fly Fishing is situated right next door to the Orvis Flagship Store. (However, it is not n/ot associated with it). Even those who’ve never fished will be blown away by the stories and art here.

New to the museum is an exhibit about Lee and Joan Wulff – “Fly Fishing Royalty.” Lee was the inventor of the Fly Fishing Vest and the originator of “Catch and Release.” He famously said, “A game fish is too valuable to be caught only once.”

Read how they extolled the sport, and learn about this solitary, meditative activity through a timeline history at this newly revamped and well-curated museum. Upstairs, find books on fly-fishing in the wood-paneled Gardiner Grant Library (including a 1663 copy of Sir Izaak Walton’s, The Complete Angler ), and some of the most exquisitely beautiful fly-fishing tie art you’re bound to see anywhere.

DO: Fly Fishing School

There’s a reason Orvis located its flagship store here. This area of Vermont is threaded with some of the best trout fishing rivers in America. If you are new to the sport, sign up for a ½ day, full-day, or two-day instruction at the Orvis Fly Fishing School, in Manchester across the street from the Orvis Flagship Store .

GO: Southern Vermont Arts Center

The outdoor sculpture stands sentry on hills and in fields on your way up the winding drive to the Southern Vermont Arts Center. The campus encompasses several buildings, including a café, 400-seat theater, and artist-in-residence studios.

Begin in Yester House. Built in 1917 as the summer home of Gertrude Webster, it’s now a sunlit series of nine galleries on two floors that showcase the work of SVAC Members, local schoolteachers, and art instructors.

While Yester House features the best landscape views, the museum/gallery’s piece de resistance of architecture is the Hugh Newall Jacobson-designed Elizabeth Wilson Museum and Galleries. (Each piece on exhibit is also for sale).

The white New England church-like exterior stands in sharp contrast to the floodlit contemporary interior, which features three important exhibits per year.

On-site, curATE Cafe , has become quite the sensation in Manchester. Up the romance factor and book a toothsome brunch before or after perusing the museum’s galleries.

DO: Ski or Alpine Slide at Bromley

Bromley Ski Resort is just 10 miles from Manchester. Although it’s not the size of Okemo, (46 trails to Okemo’s 120), it’s Vermont’s only south-facing hill and thus gets lots of sun. It’s kid-friendly, too. In summer, the Alpine Slide is a hit. When here, make a little detour to JJ Hapgood General Store (see below under where to eat.)

DO: Pastime Pinball

If you are a child of the Boardwalk Arcade era (before online gaming took over) or just want to find out what your parents and grandparents were wild about, you will LOVE banging on each of the 65 pinball machines at Pastime Pinball .

A “playable museum,” the machines range from the first electric flipper game, a 1947 “Humpty Dumpty,” to the ultra-stimulating options of the present day. There’s popcorn and adult beverages in a small cafe upstairs to round out the experience.

SHOP/EAT/INDIE BOOKSTORE: Northshire Bookstore and Bonnet & Main Cafe 

Check out the warren of rooms in the massive, meandering, and marvelous Northshire Bookstore . It’s been a community resource in Manchester Center for over 45 years and is stocked with thousands of titles, as well as a knowledgeable staff. You can enter either through the main door or through Bonnet & Main – a delectable lunch cafe.

SHOP: Manchester Designer Outlets

Yes, nearly 40 are still here. Get your Marimekko, Armani, J. Crew, Michael Kors, Polo, Theory, Tumi, Le Creuset, and other outlet deals here. The internet hasn’t totally destroyed fun, hands-on shopping. Yet.

SHOP: EPOCH Vermont Artisans Gallery

Eighteen artists got together and opened the fetching EPOCH Vermont Artisans Gallery in downtown Manchester. Each craftsman/woman, including the potter, Nick Seidner (shown here), is required to “mind the store” two days a month.

Another founding artist, Johnny Hinrichs, created the enormous “Lure of the Fly” stained glass window at the Orvis Flagship Store nearby, which indicates the quality of art you’ll find in this multi-gallery shop.

SHOP/BRA: La Peche Lingerie

If you haven’t done it in a while, it’s time to get bra-refitted. There’s a reason why women from all over the country come to La Peche Lingerie , a purveyor of bras from size 28A to 46K. I’ve been buying the wrong size for years. Now I know (and look) better. You’ll also find all kinds of night clothes and underthings from hot to granny (and even hot granny).

SHOP: The Italian Market of Manchester

No preservatives or nitrates are used to make the best-tasting salamis and sausages at The Italian Market of Manchester (formerly Fortuna’s). The products are made off-site in upstate NY, using recipes that the Fortuna grandparents brought with them from Calabria Italy over 100 years ago. Though the Italian Market ships all over the world, you can come into this brick-and-mortar store in downtown Manchester and sample the goods before buying. Delectable.

SHOP: Mother Myrick’s

This confectionery has been in business for 40 years and still makes some of the best Butter Crunch on the planet. Come into Mother Myrick’s for samples of these or the signature Lemon Lulu Cakes, and you’ll no doubt be taking some home with you.

SHOP: Vermont Flannel

Vermont Flannel just opened a shop in Manchester, stocked to the brim with your favorite “made in USA” flannel pj’s, shirts, boxer shorts, and even coats for your pups.

SIP: Smugglers’ Notch Distillery Tasting Room

Sure, you can try the craft-made Maple Syrup infused bourbons, rye, and rum, at in-town Smugglers’ Notch Distillery Tasting Room , but I’m partial to the Creme Liquors myself. Specifically, the Vermont Maple Cream version.

Hikes Around Manchester VT

Hike/lunch/art: equinox preserve trails.

Hike from the Equinox Pond to the Southern VT Art Center (about an hour each way). Then have lunch at the cafe, peruse the exhibits, and hike back. Plan on about 3 or more hours or even a whole day. The Equinox Preserve Trails are just some of the hikes you can take in the area. See below for more.

Shop Outdoor Gear: The Mountain Goat

Rent snowshoes or cross-country gear from The Mountain Goat and check the site for details about their favorite hiking to do in Manchester, Vermont:

• Mount Equinox (5.2 miles)
• Bromley Mountain (5.2 miles)
• Lye Brook Falls (5.4 miles)
• Prospect Rock (3.6 miles)
• Stratton Mountain (11 miles)
• Baker Peak (9.0 miles)
• Little Rock Pond (3.6 miles)
• Haystack Mountain (3.0 miles)

Hike And Swim At Abandoned Quarries

The Gettysburg Quarry hike is a 2.5-mile loop through the reclaimed forest surrounding the former quarry. Afterward, cool off with a dip at the Dorset Quarry.

Once a bustling marble quarry, Dorset Quarry was the oldest quarry in the U.S. Now it’s a popular spot for swimming and cliff jumping. With crystal-clear water and 80-foot cliffs to jump from, it’s a thrilling experience for adrenaline junkies. The quarry is surrounded by stunning natural beauty, with lush green trees, serene waterfalls, and large slabs of stone that are ideal for sunbathing.

Vermont Route 11/30

Vermont maintains over 300 miles of trails managed for snowmobile use, much of it available for hiking as well. Access to the Appalachian/Long Trail can be found here too.

Manchester VT Restaurants

Eat: the silver fork.

The Silver Fork , located in the old Manchester Library, situated between the Kimpton Taconic Hotel and the Equinox Resort, is not only a top Manchester restaurant, it’s considered one of the top 100 restaurants in the USA. In addition, this gorgeous, mid-century modern furnished eatery was voted Best Date Night Restaurant in the country by Trip Advisors in 2021 (#2 in 2022).

With accolades like that, it’s often tough to stay on top of the game. But The Silver Fork offers such mouthwatering and unconventionally plated tweaks on familiar dishes that diners often gasp audibly when they arrive at the table.

Chef/owner Mark French, along with his outgoing wife, Melody, preside over this exceptional dining spot. Mark earned his chops by way of Baltimore, Germany, and Puerto Rico, before settling in Manchester. So, it’s no surprise that his menu has a ’round the world with an innovative chef vibe.

EAT: Ye Olde Tavern

While the food may not be as “haute” as other dining options in Manchester VT, the atmosphere at Ye Olde Tavern , within an authentic 1790 stagecoach stop, is unbeatable. You can choose to sit in one of several intimate rooms, which from the start hosted travelers from afar. (And from 1934 to 1975, as a hotel and antique shop).

Feast on the likes of Filet Mignon, Chicken Marsala, Salmon, and other New England Country Cooking and Continental fare. But one of the big draws is the “bread course.” The signature Cranberry Fritters with Maple Butter are absolutely ambrosial.

EAT: The Copper Grouse at the Taconic Hotel, Manchester VT

With rough-hewn dark wood floors, tufted leather banquettes, espresso-colored wainscoting, and fowl and cornucopia art aplenty, The Copper Grouse is a Ralph Lauren-esqe version of a hunting-lodge. By night, the scene is farm-to-table locavore – with tweaks on familiar New England cooking.

EAT/VISIT: JJ Hapgood General Store and Eatery, Peru

Young professional couple, Juliette and Tim Britton, returned home from the city, took a tired General Store – the centerpiece of tiny Peru VT – and turned it into a destination coffee shop, organic farm-to-table restaurant, trendy bar, and yes, a locally sourced sundries “general store.”

Dine on Local Beef Burger, Plymouth Hunter Grilled Cheese, and specialty Wood Fired Pizzas for lunch.  JJ Hapgood has earned accolades for its décor, food, and service. It’s favored by everyone from Bromley Mountain skiers to Sir Paul McCartney, who came up to these parts to visit his nephew. Ask to see his picture with the Brittons.

EAT : Manchester VT Locals also love

Mistrals , just out of town, for fine French dining. The Reluctant Panther for innovative excellent cuisine.

Manchester VT Hotels

Stay: kimpton taconic hotel.

Kimpton’s first hotel located outside of a city, the 86-room Taconic in Manchester VT is less flashy than those in metropolitan areas. There were several hotels on this Route 7A property between the Equinox and downtown before the last was torn down and replaced by the Taconic in late 2015.

First Impressions

Reception, Kimpton- style, is friendly but not gratuitously so. Kimpton’s pet-friendly policy allows you to bring any housebroken or crated creature from dogs to cats to potbelly pigs up to the size that can “fit comfortably in an elevator.” Those familiar with the urban Kimpton aesthetic might find the earth tone palette here uncharacteristically subdued.

When cold out, there’s a fire ablaze in a comfortable lobby. And no matter what the season, the huge front porch with tables and rocking chairs (blankets offered when it’s chilly) is tailor-made for brisk fresh-air and sunset enthusiasts.

Rooms at The Taconic

Wood tones, from birch to mahogany, bespeak a hike in the surrounding mountains. The feeling is comfy-cozy, without a stick of frou-frou or stark modernist to be found.

Upholstered chairs, a bureau with twig shaped pulls, and bed sheathed in a white duvet – the gestalt is “woodland-chic,” as it should be in these parts.

Bathrooms have glass showers with white subway tile and plaid print wallpaper. At turndown, you’ll find an old-fashioned alarm clock placed on one bedside table which also features, conveniently, two embedded electrical outlets.

Dining at The Taconic

See “Where to Eat” above

Amenities at The Taconic

Wine and Popcorn Hour – 5-6 pm each day. This is a great opportunity to meet and converse with fellow guests. Take your drink out on the front porch, or enjoy it near the fireplace in the lobby.

STAY: The Equinox Resort and Spa

This grand dame hotel was built in the mid-1700s, decades before Mary Todd Lincoln vacationed in Vermont (near where her son Robert Todd Lincoln constructed his summer home, Hildene). It still reigns supreme among USA mountain resorts.

STAY: Wilburton Inn

The Wilburton Inn, an eclectic, romantic, and luxurious place in a party-forward, fun, pet-friendly, and family-owned way, is almost too hard to explain.

A grand estate built at the turn of last century, and purchased by a Greek Holocaust survivor, Dr. Albert Levis (Psychiatrist), and his family in the 1980s, the Wilburton contains a multitude of personalities, from a sculpture garden to a Museum of the Creative Process, to multiple private homes for family reunions, to Murder Mystery Weekends, great food, and so much more, we’ll let this Youtube video speak for itself.

STAY: The Reluctant Panther

Formerly painted purple, this luxury inn literally rose from the ashes after a devastating fire in 2005. Now, its exterior is trimmed in purple, and inside, upscale rooms have been decorated with a clever hand. The dining room, according to many, serves “impeccable” cuisine.

More Weekend Getaways In Southern Vermont

• Bennington VT: Welcome to the Green Mountain State
• Ski The East In Charming Mad River Valley Vermont
• Grafton VT: Ski Magic And Irreverent History

All articles belong to Getaway Mavens LLC, and all photos belong to us as well, unless otherwise noted. It’s all copyrighted. Please don’t repost anything elsewhere without asking us first. All rights reserved. This site uses cookies to enhance your experience.

We make no guarantees of any price listed on our site. We’re not responsible for content on external websites linked to ours, including linked resources, an external blog post, any partner site, hotel property sites, or affiliate sites. We only write about places we have vetted, but can’t guarantee that your experience will be exactly the same.

Posts may contain affiliate links at no cost to you. Several of our trips are also compensated by the respective tourism boards for the city or state we are visiting. This never impacts how we share the destination with you – opinions are always our own and we pride ourselves on that. We do not sell links or accept unsolicited guest posts under any circumstances. Don’t even ask.

United States Copyright, Getaway Mavens, LLC

Malerie Yolen-Cohen is the Author of the cross-country travel guide, Stay On Route 6; Your Guide to All 3562 Miles of Transcontinental Route 6. She contributes frequently to Newsday, with credits in National Geographic Traveler, Ladies Home Journal, Yankee Magazine, Shape.com, Sierra Magazine, Porthole, Paddler, New England Boating, Huffington Post, and dozens of other publications. Malerie’s focus and specialty is Northeastern US, and she is constantly amazed by the caliber of restaurants and lodging in the unlikeliest places.

View all posts

EXPLORE THE REGION

A popular travel destination since the 1800s, manchester is steeped in history. you can visit our nationally recognized historic sites and museums or join a guided tour and soak up the story of vermont first hand. sign up for an off-road tour or just tool along our back roads in search of hidden landmarks, cheese makers, craft producers, and more. just a short drive from major cities but a world away, manchester is the gateway to authentic vermont..

ARTS AND CULTURAL EXPERIENCES IN MANCHESTER

Whether you’re looking for adventure or just a quiet escape, manchester is just the place. for a quaint mountain town, we’ve got all the big perks; world-class heritage sites, award winning cultural venues, incredible galleries and museums, and recreational activities to suit even the most ardent enthusiast..

Mount Equinox Skyline Drive

An unforgettable scenic drive to the summit of the highest peak in the taconic range.

The Skyline Drive Welcome Center is located on Vermont Historic Route 7A between Manchester and Arlington, Vermont.

Our GPS address is 42 Skyline Drive Sunderland, VT 05250

DATES & HOURS

Memorial Day Weekend to October 31st 9:00 AM to 5:00 PM daily (weather permitting)

Please note: Last vehicle admitted at 4:00 PM

Memorial Day Weekend through September 30th Car & Driver – $25 Additional passenger – $5 each Motorcycles – $25 (bike and driver) – additional passenger – $5 each Children under 10 years old – Free October 1st through 31st Car & Driver – $30 Additional passenger – $5 each Motorcycles – $25 (bike and driver) – additional passenger – $5 each Children under 10 years old – Free

Visitor Center

Discover Manchester Vermont!

Learn about the numerous places to stay, eat, taste, shop and experience in Manchester, VT and the surrounding area.

Find FREE brochures, magazines, maps, and information

58B Depot Street, Manchester, VT 05255

The Shires of Vermont

Nestled between the Taconic and Green Mountains, and enriched by the waters of the famous Batten Kill, The Shires has long been a popular four-season destination for those seeking an authentic Vermont experience. Anchored by the two county seats of Bennington and Manchester, fifteen towns and villages are united by a common sense of place, history, and culture. The Shires of Vermont Byway connects the Southshire with the Northshire and beckons visitors to enjoy scenery, hospitality, recreation, and the region’s rich heritage.

Mohawks and Iroquois traced this path as long ago as 5,000 BC, as evidenced by projectile points, but Vermont was not settled by those of European origin until the 1760s. This Byway, then a crude path marked by occasional slashes on trees, became a principal route of migrating pioneers and their cattle trudging northward from Litchfield and Berkshire counties seeking life in wilderness newly opened to settlement.

Today it offers a quintessential Vermont road trip experience! Visit a farmers’ markets or browse a neighborhood bakery. Pick your own apples and strawberries. Sip craft cocktails at a boutique hotel or pack a picnic to go from one of our mom-and-pop markets. Take in the views, visit galleries, museums, and historic sites. And stop every so often to sample craft brews, hard cider, farmstead cheeses, and fine chocolates — all in a single drive.

Be In the Know

Sign up here for our monthly newsletter, keep in touch, shop  taste   stay   experience.

Southern Curls & Pearls

• LikeToKnow.it

Travel Guide: Manchester, Vermont

Lunch at Marsh Tavern is the best! Order the tomato soup & grilled cheese combo (and don’t forget the french fries). 

Leave a Comment Cancel Comment

20 comments.

Beautiful photos Cait! This has totally inspired me to travel to Vermont, I've always wanted to go because it looks and sounds like such a magical place – now I definitely have to!

I hope you're having a lovely Thursday, Michael https://www.mileinmyglasses.com

It looks like the perfect gateway, love your outfits.

xo Pinksole

I have that same sweater from H&M (in tan) and thought it was a dress too! Love all of your looks!

xo, Carey https://thedaintydetails.wordpress.com

http://www.evdaily.blogspot.com

This makes me want to book a trip there next year! What a cute town and I love how pretty the leaves are!

http://www.rdsobsessions.com

I was there exactly when you were, it's incredible there. We love the shops there and the Seasons Restaurant is another good spot to eat for lunch.

Oh my goodness.. looks like such a fun time! Love love love all your outfits!! You look amazing!! Esp loving those OTK boots! <3

Katie | http://www.meshkomoments.com

Such a wonderful post – and your outfits are on point!!

Rebecca xx http://www.peppermintdolly.com

All of your outfits are precious!! I'm dying to visit Vermont in the fall 🙂

https://www.alexisdezayas.com

That first picture is so dreamy, Caitlin!!! Those stars are unreal. It looks as though you had a wonderful trip. You girls are all so stylish!

Oh how wonderful photos with such a magical vibe on them! 🙂

https://lartoffashion.com

Ugh, this sounds sooo amazing, Caitlin! I'm definitely filing this away just for the scenic drive part, haha! I love all of your outfits and you're making me want those OTK boots!!!

She Sweats Diamonds

Love all the outfits!

http://thegirlswhobrunch.com

The place looks gorgeous in your photos! I love the outfits and now I want to visit there so bad. I haven't been to vermont since I was a baby!

http://trendkeeper.me .. the best long cardis and giveaway!

What an amazing trip! I love all your cozy looks too! They were all so perfect for the mini vaca! X Samantha http://www.thenewyorkblonde.com

This looks like such a beautiful city! Thanks for all of the travel tips.

xx, Tomi http://goodtomicha.com

This place looks so beautiful! And I had no idea you were 5'3! I learn something new every time I come here

http://alexamjohnson.com

Your makeup is flawless! Manchester makes me think of the UK city but these looks beautiful. I love your knitwear!

more posts you'll love

Sea Shells by the Sea Shore

Purple Swim by the Sea

• Shop Instagram
• Partnerships
• Beauty Tutorials
• Latest Outfits
• Shop by Instagram

Expedia Rewards is now One Key™

Manchester, vt.

Visit Manchester

Manchester always has something new to offer to first-time and returning visitors. New Englanders descend upon this hamlet for its designer fashion outlets. Return travelers to New England insist on detouring to the Northshire Bookstore, a cottage bookstore and book lover’s dream. Whatever your interests, visit this must-see town in Bennington County.

Manchester is partly located within the Green Mountain National Forest. Put on your hiking shoes and spend an afternoon on the trails in this remarkable woodland. Marvel at the cascade of water down the jagged levels of Lye Brooks Falls. Wander up Prospect Rock Trail, so named because it ends with a beautiful view of all of Manchester down below.

At Adams Park, buy fresh produce between June and October on Thursdays at the Manchester Farmers Market. While many locals use the farmers market as a chance to replenish their produce supplies, enjoy delicious prepared foods here as well. Taste a cupcake, slice of homemade pie or perfectly baked focaccia topped with local ingredients. Save room in your bags for Vermont maple syrup, a great gift for friends back home.

An essential stop while you’re in Manchester is the Hildene home of Robert Todd Lincoln, son of 16th U.S. President Abraham Lincoln. Today, the more than 400-acre (160-hectare) estate has regal gardens, terraces, ponds and a small farm. Spend time in the stately hallways of the Lincoln’s Georgian Revival house. There is a cost of admission, and additional costs for guided tours.

In winter, Manchester becomes a destination for cross-country skiing and sledding. At the Riley Rink, diversify your winter sports with ice-skating, hockey or the fascinating sport of curling.

To get here, fly into Albany International Airport in New York and rent a car. The drive from Albany is 47 miles (76 kilometers) and is as much of a draw to this region as Manchester itself. Continue exploring the rest of Bennington County and make Manchester your portal to one of the most beautiful areas in North America.

• Manchester Hotel Deals
• Vacation Rentals in Manchester

Reviewed on Apr 8, 2024

Reviewed on Apr 28, 2024

Reviewed on Mar 17, 2024

Reviewed on Apr 25, 2024

Reviewed on Mar 1, 2024

Reviewed on Nov 11, 2023

Check Manchester hotel availability

Popular places to visit.

• Golf Club at Equinox

Enjoy a round of golf in Manchester at Golf Club at Equinox. Discover the mountain views while you're in the area.

• American Museum of Fly Fishing

You can enjoy some culture when you stop by American Museum of Fly Fishing in Manchester. Discover the mountain views while you're in the area.

Museum of Creative Process

You can enjoy some culture when you stop by Museum of Creative Process in Manchester. Discover the mountain views in this quaint area.

Reviews of Manchester

Great town, although the somewhat ruined it with all the outlets, half of which are gone. Old manchester was so much better, and the sirloin saloon wass the center of everything

5/5 - Excellent

Lots of shopping and restaurants. Close to skiing and hiking

A quaint yet engaged village. We were only there for a short time and due to weather didn't get an opportunity to explore as we had hoped. But our appetite has definitely ben whetted so we will be back!

Terrible that most of the restaurants and shops were closed for Tuesday AND Wednesday so we were unable to do most of what we went there for.

Great central location for skiers, near four nice downhill ski mountains and some x-country. Good variety of restaurants, but don't think you don't need reservations for the better ones. And one of them - Bistro Henry - just closed.

Manchester was beautiful but DO NOT STAY AT THE INNS AT EQUINOX!!!

• Cities near Manchester

Manchester Center

• Places of interest
• Stratton Mountain Resort
• Bromley Mountain Ski Resort
• Magic Mountain Ski Resort
• Equinox Preservation Trust
• Mount Snow Golf Course
• Stratton Mountain Summit Gondola
• American Express Ski Lift
• Mount Equinox
• Battenkill River
• Bennington College
• Jamaica State Park
• Weston Playhouse
• Manchester Designer Outlets
• Dorset Playhouse
• Weston Priory
• Sugar Shack
• Lowell Lake State Park
• Viking Nordic Center
• Lake Shaftsbury State Park
• Emerald Lake State Park
• Lye Brook Falls
• Park McCullough House
• Prospect Mountain Cross-Country Ski Center

Sassy Southern Blonde

A Fashion & Lifestyle Blog by Kelsie Bynum

Manchester, Vermont Travel Guide

November 13, 2023

After our trip to Stowe last October, Karli, Brenna, and I knew we wanted to go back to Vermont this year! Although we loved Stowe and Woodstock, we decided to switch it up and travel to Manchester. Since it’s in the southern part of the state, it was closer for us to fly into Albany, NY instead of Burlington! After a delayed flight, I met up with the girls on Friday afternoon and hit the road to Manchester in our rental car.

Unfortunately, Vermont had record breaking rain so we quickly noticed that the leaves were lacking some color! Our adorable boutique hotel made up for it, though. Brenna had previously stayed there, and I’m SO glad she recommended it. I’d love to go back next year!

Once we were checked in, we went to dinner at Ye Olde Tavern! It was a really cool restaurant because it’s inside an old house with 1800s vibes. We ordered Almond & Brown Sugar Encrusted Brie, Not Your Mom’s Chicken Pot Pie, and they brought us Cranberry Fritters with Vermont Maple Butter! We also got the Flourless Chocolate Brownie and Apple Crisp desserts because we are BIG dessert girlies. The food was good, but it wasn’t the best!

On Saturday, we started out shooting content around the hotel. We stayed at the Kimpton Taconic Hotel in the heart of Manchester! It’s super picturesque, and I can only imagine how pretty it is when the leaves are actually peaking. They also give guests a complimentary glass of wine during happy hour each day which is important to note! After taking pictures, we had lunch at Mulligan’s! None of us were big fans between the Lobster Rolls and Chicken Tenders! Haha.

Sunday was our last day in Manchester, so we decided to eat breakfast at a popular restaurant called Up For Breakfast! This was my favorite spot we went to. I ordered the Pumpkin Spice Pancakes with a side order of bacon! It was SO crispy in the best way! Haha. We finished shooting our last few outfits and decided to explore downtown Manchester the rest of the afternoon!

If there’s one store you have to visit, it’s Northshire Bookstore! It has so much character. The entire town is incredibly charming for that matter! I bought Baker a few books, and we browsed around some other shops. We ate at Gringo Jack’s for lunch and had a casual dinner at our hotel’s restaurant The Copper Grouse! 

Manchester is the perfect destination for a relaxing fall weekend in New England! We felt like it wasn’t nearly as chaotic as Stowe and Woodstock. Even though the foliage wasn’t as vibrant, we still had an amazing trip! It’s just the risk you take when booking months in advance! Lol.

Leave a Reply Cancel reply

Your email address will not be published. Required fields are marked *

Notify me of follow-up comments by email.

Notify me of new posts by email.