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Things to Do in Manchester, VT - Manchester Attractions

Things to do in manchester, tours in and around manchester.

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24 Best Things to Do in Manchester VT in 2024!

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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

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 !

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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.

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

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

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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!

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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.

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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.

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Publish Date: April 9, 2023

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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. 

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June 30, 2018 at 3:30 am

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

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

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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.

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Top Things to Do in Manchester, VT

Places to visit in manchester, tours in and around manchester.

New York to Vermont Full-Day Adventure with Private Helicopter

2 Hour Forest Immersion Retreat in Woodland Sanctuary

WW2 Small Arms Experience

Hudson River Sightseeing Cruise from Albany

Colonial Flintlock Musket Experience

Day Tour through Stowe, Vermont

Guided Brattleboro History Walking Tour

Superman Zipline Tour in Morningside

7-Hour Tour Through Montpelier and Mad River Valley, Vermont

Brewery & Spirits Tour

Top attractions in manchester.

Other Top Attractions around Manchester

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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.)

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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.

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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.

Haunted Vermont, Folklore & much more…

Quintessential New England: Manchester’s Charming Villages and Scenery

Located in the beautiful Green Mountains of southern Vermont , Manchester is a charming small town with much to offer visitors and residents alike. With a population of just over 4,000 people, Manchester provides a friendly small-town atmosphere while still featuring plenty of activities, events, and attractions.

Why Visit Manchester, Vermont?

Manchester has been a popular tourist destination for over a century, drawing visitors who enjoy the natural beauty of the mountains as well as the town's shops, restaurants, attractions, and more. Here are some of the top reasons to visit Manchester:

• Outdoor Recreation  – Manchester is surrounded by the Green Mountain National Forest, offering hiking, biking , fishing , and more. Bromley Mountain offers skiing and snowboarding in winter and hiking and mountain biking in summer.
• Shopping & Dining  – Manchester's main street features boutique shops, art galleries, restaurants, cafes, and more. Stop for lunch at a local eatery or spend an afternoon browsing for unique gifts and souvenirs.
• Historic Architecture  – Manchester's downtown features Georgian, Federal, and Victorian architecture, with many buildings on the National Register of Historic Places. Take a stroll and admire the beautiful historic homes and inns.
• Cultural Attractions  – Visit the Southern Vermont Arts Center which hosts concerts, theater productions, and art exhibits. Or tour Hildene, the Lincoln Family Home, to learn about the Lincoln's time spent in Manchester.

Is Manchester, Vermont a Good Place to Live?

In addition to being a popular tourist destination, Manchester is also home to many full-time residents who enjoy the small-town quality of life. Here are some of the benefits of living in Manchester, VT:

• Natural Beauty  – Living amongst the Green Mountains provides easy access to hiking, skiing, and all kinds of outdoor activities year-round. The natural scenery is breathtaking.
• Strong Community  – Manchester has a vibrant, tight-knit community with plenty of community events and activities bringing people together. Neighbors know and support one another.
• Good Schools  – Manchester's schools consistently rank highly, providing a quality education in a small-town setting. The student-teacher ratios are low.
• Convenience  – While small, Manchester has most of the essentials including shops, restaurants, entertainment, healthcare facilities, and other amenities. Burlington and other cities are within an easy drive.
• Four Seasons  – Manchester is beautiful in every season, from summer greens to fall foliage to a snowy winter wonderland. You can enjoy the outdoors all year.

Fun Facts About Manchester, Vermont

• The town was one of the first summer resort destinations in the United States, with visitors drawn by the natural beauty as early as the 1860s.
• Manchester was home to Abraham Lincoln's son Robert Todd Lincoln and his family from 1945 to the 1980s. Their preserved estate Hildene is now a popular attraction.
• Manchester is Vermont's best known upscale shopping destination, with dozens of high-end outlets, boutiques, galleries, and more downtown.
• The nearby Bromley Mountain resort installed Vermont's first chair lift in 1936 and started the state's ski industry.
• Manchester hosts popular annual events including the Vermont Summer Festival horse show, the Manchester Music Festival, and the Manchester Antique and Classic Car Show.

So if you're looking for natural beauty, small town charm, history, culture, shopping and dining – consider a visit or move to Manchester, Vermont! The Green Mountains will welcome you.

Manchester, Vermont offers plenty of recreation and fun activities for visitors to enjoy. Here are some of the best options for recreation, shopping, dining, and entertainment in Manchester:

Outdoor Recreation

Hiking – Lots of great trails in the Green Mountain National Forest, such as the Long Trail, Bromley Mountain trails, and more. Manchester is surrounded by stunning natural beauty and great hiking trails that outdoor enthusiasts flock to every season. Here are some top hiking trail options in the Manchester area:

• Long Trail – Part of the legendary Long Trail runs down from Mt. Equinox Skyline Drive. It's 10.2 miles round trip with great views from Lookout Rock. Difficulty ranges from easy to strenuous.
• Bromley Mountain – The hiking trails at Bromley Mountain Resort range from easy nature walks to challenging rock scrambles. Popular hikes include the Vermont View Trail and the Summit Trail up 3,281 ft Bromley Mountain.
• Lye Brook Falls – A moderate 2.8 mile hike in Green Mountain National Forest takes you to the 60 ft tall Lye Brook Falls cascade.
• Dorset Quarry – This 6 mile loop hike goes past the abandoned Vermont Marble Exhibit Center and beautiful mountain lakes before ending at the Dorset Quarry.
• Merck Forest Trail System – Over 30 miles of trails for hiking and mountain biking through diverse topography and landscapes.
• Hildene – The grounds of Hildene historic estate feature scenic nature trails past wetlands, meadows, and woodlands that are open year-round.

With options for all hiking abilities ranging from short nature walks to challenging mountain ascents, it's easy to enjoy Manchester's natural splendor on foot. The fall foliage views are especially stunning. The Green Mountain Club and area outfitters can provide more trail recommendations.

Fishing – Fly fish in the Battenkill River or visit Emerald Lake for catch and release fishing

Manchester offers excellent fishing opportunities for anglers of all levels throughout the area. Here are some popular spots and information on fishing around Manchester:

• Battenkill River – This river is considered one of the premier trout fishing destinations in the Eastern U.S. It's known for its prolific insect hatches and is ideal for fly fishing. Brown trout along with rainbow trout can be found in the river.
• Emerald Lake – A peaceful 63-acre lake surrounded by natural beauty. It's stocked with brook and rainbow trout and offers catch and release fishing only. No motors are allowed.
• Equinox Pond – A small pond located below Mt. Equinox that's stocked with brook and rainbow trout by the state. It offers nice views while fishing.
• Manchester Recreation Center – The rec center stocks their two ponds frequently throughout the season, making it a family-friendly option. Regular stockings of trout occur.
• Dorset Quarry – This 80 ft deep former quarry is now flooded and stocked with trout, smallmouth bass, perch and more. It's a unique angling spot.
• Lakes & Streams – The mountains around Manchester have small lakes, rivers, and streams that you can fish. Permits are required.

The Manchester area offers diverse fishing opportunities in scenic settings. Fly fishing is popular but bait and lures also work well. Local outfitters like Orvis offer gear, licensing, and guided trips.

Biking – Mountain bike on the trails at Bromley Mountain or bring your road bike to bike the scenic Vermont country roads

Manchester is a great destination for biking and mountain biking, with scenic road cycling routes as well as exhilarating mountain bike trails. Here's more on the top places to ride:

• Bromley Mountain Bike Park – This lift-served bike park at Bromley Mountain Resort has over 40 trails spanning over 600 vertical feet. Designed for all skill levels, trails include dirt jumps, wooden bridges, berms and other features.
• Manchester Rec Center – The rec center maintains an intermediate level mountain bike loop trail just under 2 miles long through woods and meadows. It's ideal for beginner mountain bikers.
• Merck Forest Trails – Over 30 miles of well-marked trails from easy to difficult traverse diverse terrain including ridges, valleys, wetlands, and old farms. Excellent for mountain biking.
• Landgrove Loop – A 15-mile loop on dirt roads through rustic Vermont towns taking you past lakes, farms, and forests. Challenging hills with very scenic views.
• Equinox Skyline Drive – For experienced road cyclists, Skyline Drive offers a steep 5 mile climb and stunning valley views. Not for the timid!
• Village Bicycle Shop – Local bike shop offering rentals, tours, trail info, and equipment for mountain and road biking.

From family-friendly rail trails to technical mountain bike park features, Manchester has diverse cycling opportunities for all ages and skill levels set in the heart of vibrant Vermont scenery. It's easy to have an epic ride here.

Golf – Play a round at the Manchester Country Club or the Ekwanok Country Club

The Manchester Country Club is widely considered one of the top golf courses in Vermont. Here are some of the key things to know about golfing at this premier club:

• Layout – This 18-hole, par-72 course was designed by legendary golf course architect Donald Ross. It covers 6,724 yards through the Green Mountains. The classic design takes advantage of the dramatic natural landscape.
• History – The club dates back to 1895, making it one of the oldest country clubs in New England. Legends like Walter Hagen, Gene Sarazen, and Ben Hogan have played here over the decades.
• Course Highlights – Signatures include the cliffside 4th hole, the uphill approach on 9, and the famous “Cape Hole” par-3 15th hole over a ravine. Conditioning is immaculate.
• Amenities – The club features a stunning Tudor clubhouse, pro shop, practice facility, locker rooms, dining room, and pool. Caddies are available.
• Membership – The club has full golf, social, junior, and non-resident memberships available. Some limited public tee times are offered.
• Accolades – Golf Digest ranks it the #1 Private Course in Vermont. It's hosted state amateur tournaments and is on many top course lists.

With its historic pedigree, classic Donald Ross design, and exceptional course conditions, the Manchester Country Club offers one of New England's finest private golf experiences in the heart of the Green Mountains. It's a bucket list play.

Shopping & Dining

• Downtown Manchester – Main Street is lined with cute boutiques, art galleries, restaurants, and cafes. Stop at Mrs. Murphy's Donuts or The Perfect Wife Restaurant.
• Manchester Designer Outlets – Upscale outlet shops for brands like Burberry, Coach, Armani, Polo Ralph Lauren.
• The Village – More shopping and dining in a village setting including LL Bean and Orvis outlets. Enjoy American fare at Seasons Restaurant.

Manchester Designer Outlets

Manchester, Vermont is famous for its collection of high-end outlet shopping destinations, drawing visitors from near and far. Here's an overview of the outlets and why they are so popular. Enjoy upscale outlet shops for brands like Burberry, Coach, Armani, Polo Ralph Lauren.:

• Manchester Designer Outlets – This outdoor village-style outlet features big name brands like Armani, Coach, Polo Ralph Lauren, Michael Kors, Kate Spade, Brooks Brothers and more at discounted prices. Shoppers can save 25-65% on designer apparel, shoes, accessories, and housewares.
• Manchester Wood Outlets – Also known as “The Stores at Weston”, this indoor outlet mall includes brands like J.Crew, Theory, Cole Haan, Lacoste, Levi's, Nike, and Frette at savings of 25-70% off retail.
• Orvis Company Outlet – The flagship retail store for the outdoor lifestyle brand Orvis sells discounted overstock and irregular items for both men's and women's clothing and gear.
• Vermont Country Store Outlet – Find bargains on New England-style candies, foods, home goods, clothing, and more at this outlet for the Vermont Country Store brand.
• Manchester Outlet Center – Discounted retailers here include Mikasa, Papyrus, Yankee Candle, Marimekko, and more.

Part of the appeal is the picturesque Vermont village setting with mountain views. But outlet shoppers also flock here to snag deals on high-quality, brand name merchandise sold at steep discounts. It makes for an affordable way to elevate your wardrobe and home. The selection and savings keep shoppers coming back.

Cultural Attractions

Southern vermont arts center – see performances and gallery exhibits..

The Southern Vermont Arts Center is a must-visit attraction in Manchester, Vermont for arts and culture. Here's more about what they offer:

• Performing Arts – The center's Arkell Pavilion Theatre seats 440 people and hosts concerts, comedy shows, musicals, and other live performances year-round. Past acts have included Judy Collins, Arlo Guthrie, and Jay Leno.
• Galleries – There are three art galleries exhibiting works by established and emerging artists. Media represented includes painting, sculpture, photography, prints, fiber art, and more. The galleries rotate new exhibitions every 4-6 weeks.
• Classes – A full schedule of arts education classes is offered in areas like painting, drawing, photography, ceramics, jewelry making, and more. Classes are offered for adults and youth at all skill levels.
• Events – Special events like artist receptions, lectures, art auctions, and donor events take place throughout the year. The Annual Fall Art Festival in October is a popular festival.
• Historical Campus – The arts center is located on 11 acres of Manchester's historic district. The grounds feature gardens, a restored carriage barn, and an historic home used for offices.
• Gift Shop – Browse regional art, crafts, cards, jewelry, and other unique items in the gift shop which supports local artists.

With dynamic public events and exhibits as well as opportunities to make your own art, the Southern Vermont Arts Center is the perfect place to immerse yourself in Manchester's thriving arts scene. Check their website for the current calendar.

Hildene, the Lincoln Family Home – Tour the preserved estate of Robert Todd Lincoln

Hildene is a must-visit attraction for anyone traveling to Manchester, Vermont! Here are some of the key reasons to visit this historic estate:

• Hildene was home to Robert Todd Lincoln, the son of President Abraham Lincoln, from 1905 until his death in 1926. Getting to walk through the preserved family home allows you to immerse yourself in the daily life of the Lincoln family.
• The 412-acre estate features beautiful gardens and grounds designed by Robert Lincoln, including a vintage revival Pullman palace railroad car that he used for transportation. Wandering the grounds is a treat.
• Inside the home, you can see Lincoln family personal artifacts, photographs, furniture, books, and documents that provide insight into the family's life. Highlights include Robert Lincoln's impressive library and Abraham Lincoln's famous stovepipe hat.
• There are interactive exhibits on Abraham Lincoln's life and legacy. For history buffs, these exhibits provide a fascinating perspective on this iconic president and his family's story.
• Special events and programs are offered throughout the year, including lectures, concerts on the restored 1928 Aeolian pipe organ, and activities for kids like cotillions.
• The on-site Victorian mansion The Manor House offers fine dining in an elegant atmosphere. Be sure to eat here and soak in the ambiance.
• The setting in the heart of the beautiful Vermont countryside, surrounded by the Green Mountains, is idyllic.

With so much to see, do, and learn, Hildene is a must-visit attraction to fully experience Manchester, Vermont's unique heritage and culture. Allow at least half a day to take it all in!

American Museum of Fly Fishing – Learn about the history of fly fishing

The American Museum of Fly Fishing in Manchester, Vermont is a unique museum that is worth a visit for anglers and non-anglers alike. Here are some key details:

• The museum was founded in 1968 and is the largest museum in the world dedicated to the history of fly fishing.
• Exhibits trace the origins of fly fishing, rod materials and design, reels, lines, leaders, flies, and more. There are over 2,000 rods and reels in the collection spanning 400 years.
• Rare books like A Treatyse on Fysshynge wyth an Angle from 1496 are on display. This gives you an up-close look at important fly fishing literature through the centuries.
• The museum celebrates the art and culture of fly fishing through artwork, collectibles, accessories, and more. There are paintings, sculptures, and prints showing fishing scenes.
• Angling paraphernalia used by famous fishermen like Ernest Hemingway and Lefty Kreh are exhibited.
• A research library contains over 20,000 books, documents, and materials related to fly fishing history. Scholars and authors regularly access these archives.
• Interpretive exhibits look at things like the evolution of fly design, fly fishing in the arts, women in fly fishing, and conservation efforts.
• Lectures, classes, and special events are offered regularly. Experts share insights into fly fishing.

The museum is highly interactive and family-friendly. Even if you've never held a fishing rod, you'll leave this museum learning about and appreciating the age-old sport of fly fishing in new ways.

Manchester Historical Museum – Exhibits on the history of Manchester

The Manchester Historical Museum is an excellent place to learn about the history and heritage of Manchester, Vermont. Here are some of the key reasons to visit:

• Housed in a restored 1846 bank building, the museum's permanent exhibits provide an overview of Manchester's history from its days as a farming community in the late 1700s through its rise as a Gilded Age resort destination in the 1860s to today.
• Artifacts, documents, photos, furniture, clothing, and other historical items bring Manchester's history to life. Notable pieces include a Victorian-era velocipede bicycle, early hotel registers, and a mounted moose head from the Equinox Hotel.
• Special exhibits change periodically and delve deeper into aspects of Manchester history like pioneering African American residents, the Lincoln family's time in town, and Manchester's 1920s tourism boom. These rotating exhibits spotlight unique stories.
• The museum offers guided walking tours of Manchester's Main Street highlighting the history behind different landmarks and architecture. This is a great way to explore downtown.
• Educational programs like lectures, workshops, and children's activities are offered to engage visitors in Manchester's local history and heritage.
• The gift shop sells books about Manchester and Vermont history, photographic prints, and other unique historic mementos you won't find elsewhere.
• Admission is free for Association members or only $5 otherwise, making this an accessible activity.

Whether you're visiting Manchester or live nearby, the Historical Museum is a great place to immerse yourself in the people, places, and events that shaped this Vermont town over the centuries. It's both educational and entertaining for history buffs.

Outdoor Events

Manchester hosts a variety of popular outdoor events and festivals throughout the year that are worth checking out. Here are some of the top outdoor happenings:

• Summer Horse Shows – The big event is the Vermont Summer Festival at HITS in nearby East Dorset, featuring equestrian competitions, vendors, and family fun.
• Manchester Music Festival – This summer concert series held outdoors in July and August brings popular performing artists to town.
• Car Shows – The Manchester Antique and Classic Car Show displays hundreds of vintage vehicles downtown in June. Another big show is the Green Mountain British Invasion.
• Running Races – Races like the Manchester 5K/10K, the Livingston Relay, and the Mt. Equinox Skyrace take runners through the scenic Green Mountains.
• Farmer's Market – The popular weekly farmers market features fresh produce, baked goods, crafts, music and more on the town green from May to October.
• Fall Foliage – Leaf peeping activities like train rides, hiking, chair lift rides, and festivals celebrate the autumn colors.
• Winter Carnivals – Annual winter carnivals in Manchester and nearby towns include sledding, skating, games, food, and fun.

The natural splendor of the Manchester area provides a beautiful backdrop for these spirited community outdoor events all year long. It's a great way to experience the city with locals.

So whether you want to hike, shop, take in some culture or just enjoy good food, Manchester has it all!

Places to Stay

Here are some of the top lodging options to consider when visiting Manchester, Vermont:

• Equinox Golf Resort & Spa – Historic luxury resort and spa on 1,300 acres offering 183 rooms, fine dining, golf, pools, and more.
• The Reluctant Panther Inn & Restaurant – Charming 20 room romantic inn in a historic building with an acclaimed on-site restaurant.
• The Wilburton Inn – Elegant Relais & Châteaux property in a 1902 mansion with just 11 rooms featuring fireplaces and Jacuzzis.
• Hearthstone Inn – Cozy bed and breakfast in two 19th century homes with 8 rooms near downtown attractions.
• Inn at Manchester – Victorian mansion turned boutique hotel with 24 rooms, event space, free breakfast, and a great location.
• The Ira Allen House – Centrally located restored bed & breakfast offering 6 rooms with private baths and a full breakfast.
• Green Mountain Inn – Downtown landmark since 1833 with charming, traditional rooms and a popular tavern.
• Ekwanok Country Inn – Historic lodge offering 11 rooms on a peaceful 150 acre estate.

From cozy historic inns to luxurious resorts, Manchester offers a range of delightful lodging options that make the most of the area's natural beauty and Vermont charm. Advance reservations are recommended.

What Historic Stories and Mysteries Can I Discover in Manchester's Cemeteries?

What historic stories and mysteries can you discover in Manchester's cemeteries? As you explore these silent grounds, you'll unveil fascinating stories from vermont's cemeteries . From notable figures to unsolved tales, Manchester's burial sites offer a glimpse into the town's rich past. Discover the secrets hidden amongst the tombstones as you immerse yourself in the intriguing history held within these hallowed grounds.

Local Legends, Haunting Ghost Stories and more

Manchester, Vermont has its share of local legends, ghost stories, and interesting historical facts that add to its charm and intrigue. Here are some highlights:

• Equinox Hotel Ghosts – Manchester's famed Equinox Hotel is said to be haunted by the ghost of Mary Todd Lincoln, wife of Abraham Lincoln. Guests have reported seeing apparitions in the hallways and hearing strange noises.
• Hildene Paranormal Activity – Abraham Lincoln's son Robert Todd Lincoln's estate Hildene is allegedly home to a number of ghosts including Robert and his wife Mary. Unexplained voices and figures appearing have been reported here.

With its long history and bucolic landscape, it's no wonder Manchester has accumulated some fascinating local lore over the centuries. Embrace the mystery and intrigue!

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About Riverwalk

Riverwalk is an important way for all ages to experience the beautiful town of Manchester, Vermont, on foot and away from cars and traffic, yet close to shopping and restaurants. Like a number of other beloved trails and walks in communities across New England, our dream is that Riverwalk will be another compelling reason to visit Manchester and the Northshire community.

Our vision is to create a series of walkable paths by the Battenkill that runs through the historic heart of Manchester Center, featuring a couple of pedestrian bridges across the river.

Visitors will be able to sit and relax to the gentle trills and burbles of the water, admire the waterfall, listen to birdsong, walk alongside the river in the shade of the overhanging trees, and wonder at the microclimates along the paths … all the while being right in the center of downtown Manchester!

We anticipate hosting art installations, musical events, educational opportunities, and historical references by Riverwalk that will illuminate and entertain.

Most of all, we want you to connect with the river and its surroundings!

The Manchester Riverwalk is a 501c(3) non-profit organization with a mission to build, beautify, and maintain public pathways along the West Branch of the Battenkill in Manchester, Vermont, thereby enhancing vibrancy in the community, while creating a compelling recreational and cultural destination.

The Manchester Riverwalk is a 501c(3) non-profit organization with a mission to build, beautify, and maintain public pathways along the West Branch of the Battenkill in Manchester, Vermont thereby enhancing vibrancy in the community, while creating a compelling recreational and cultural destination.

Manchester Riverwalk, Inc. PO Box 1622 Manchester Center, VT 05255-1622

• 8 of the Most Charming Small Towns to Visit in Vermont

In the New England region of Northeast America lies a landlocked state, also dubbed the Green Mountain State, popular for the forests that corner it, the mountainous terrain that includes the famous Green Mountains, and its much-respected maple syrup.

Known for its liberal politics, Vermont also happens to be the second least populous state in the United States of America . This state is a regular tourist spot as thousands of people from different parts of the world throng in, especially during fall, to witness its fall foliage.

The natural landscape of Vermont is an immersive and exciting experience for tourists. This state’s small size and population make it the ideal vacation destination, as you can enjoy the charm and idyllic nature of the town. If you want to visit Vermont for leisure, then you should check out these eight charming towns that will make your holiday worthwhile.

Situated along the Mad River Valley, which provides water power for the town's mills, Waitsfield was created in February 1782 by a small Vermont charter and later named after General Benjamin Wait. Waitsfield has since evolved from an agrarian town to being a desired tourist destination popularly known for its ski resorts.

For an unforgettable experience, you have to begin at Mad River Glen, which has one of the most unique and challenging ski experiences in the East. The town is really invested in skiing, and you would meet most of the locals there.

You could also experience the arts and culture scene in Waitsfield at the Big Picture Theater and Cafe and the Mad River Glass Gallery. For the best hiking and biking experience, you should pay a visit to the Mad River Path, as it has a network of trails that you would not find anywhere in the country.

Founded in 1749 and located in southwest Vermont is Bennington , one of the earliest settlements in Vermont, which is famous for its role in the Revolutionary War , particularly the 1777 Battle of Bennington . Following the war, the Battle of Bennington monument was erected to commemorate the victory.

The monument is the tallest structure in Vermont, and visitors can get a view of the obelisk from a distance.

The Bennington Museum has an impressive collection of artifacts and art, such as the Grandma Moses collection, which is an ideal spot for history enthusiasts. You can also visit the Bennington Center for Arts to see more paintings and collections.

Willow Park, downtown Bennington, has a large playground for kids, an 18-hole disc golf course, and athletic fields, which you can visit during the day. You might also like to visit Bennington College and Burt Henry Covered Bridge to learn about the great history of the town.

Just thirty minutes off Bennington is Manchester , the second shire county in Bennington, Vermont. This town is the favorite tourist destination for folks coming from New York and Connecticut looking for a place to stay away from the hustle and bustle of the city.

Amongst the many landmarks and attractions in Manchester is the Hildene Mansion. The Georgian Revival-style mansion is the summer home of Robert Todd Lincoln, the only child of President Abraham Lincoln .

Mount Equinox is one of the popular sights in the town and is good for hiking. In Manchester, the Riverwalk offers a scenic exploration along the West Branch of the Battenkill, distinct from the nearby Mount Equinox, where the Southern Vermont Arts Center (SVAC) provides cultural enrichment with art exhibitions and collections from regional artists such as Robert Strong Woodward and Ogden Pleissner.

Chartered in 1761, Woodstock is the shire town of Windsor County. The rapid development of Woodstock was due to the abundant water power of the Ottauquechee River, which also facilitated the development of various mills along the river path.

The town's unwavering commitment to preserving and appreciating the natural environment has earned it the status of the prettiest small town in America, as its scenic mountain and forest backdrop is constantly maintained. Sites of interest in Woodstock include the Marsh-Billings-Rockefeller National Park, which provides amazing insights into America's history.

The Lincoln-covered bridge built in 1877 will grab your attention if you are a history buff, as well as the Billings Farm and Museum, which provides visitors an opportunity to learn about sustainable farm practices and 19th-century farm activities. Woodstock Historical Society & Dana House Museum houses paintings, textiles, and clothing that you might love.

Brattleboro

Sited in southeast Vermont, Brattleboro is a charming town with a rich history and a vibrant arts scene. Popularly known as the Gateway to Vermont, Brattleboro offers visitors a perfect blend of cultural attractions and outdoor adventures.

The Brattleboro Museum & Art Center is a popular attraction in town as it showcases contemporary art exhibitions and gives insight into regional history. For outdoor enthusiasts, the nearby Connecticut River offers opportunities for kayaking, fishing, and scenic boat tours. The Gibson Aiken Center and Living Memorial Park are great spots to host the family.

Brattleboro hosts various festivals and events to celebrate the town's culture and heritage, and you do not want to miss them. The Strolling of the Heifers Parade is held annually in June. This unique parade features colorful floats, live music, and herds of decorated cows, referencing Vermont's agricultural heritage.

St. Johnsbury

Located in Vermont's idyllic Northeast Kingdom, St. Johnsbury is a charming town renowned in history and surrounded by natural beauty. In the mid-19th century, it was a minor manufacturing center for scales and Maple syrup.

The town is deeply connected to its roots and places such as St. Johnsbury Athenaeum, a historic library and art gallery where you can see a collection of fine art and rare books, and the Fairbanks Museum and Planetarium, where visitors can explore exhibits on natural history, science is a must-visit location.

Outdoor enthusiasts will appreciate the nearby trails of the Kingdom Trails network for hiking, biking, and cross-country skiing. Cherry House Bed and Breakfast and Fairbanks Inn are spots in town where you can enjoy the food and hospitality of the town.

St. Johnsbury hosts the Colors of the Kingdom Autumn in September, during which you can enjoy live music, craft vendors, and seasonal activities.

Nestled in the Green Mountains is a charming town, also known as the birthplace of Vermont. This town is called Windsor, and its history dates back to the colonial era. Interestingly, Windsor is home to the Old Constitution House, which housed the creation of Vermont's first constitution, which was adopted in 1777.

Do not miss an opportunity to visit the American Precision Museum for a glimpse into the innovation and manufacturing history of America. The Ascutney Trails are perfect for hiking and mountain biking and getting acquainted with stunning views of the countryside.

Windsor also hosts several festivals, such as the Vermont History Expo in June, where visitors can immerse themselves in Vermont's rich cultural heritage. In September, the town comes alive with the annual Vermont Golden Honey Festival, celebrating the state's beekeeping industry.

Newport is said to be the most charming town in all of Vermont. By experiencing the stunning views of the mountainside, you would tell a tale of the most beautiful place you have seen.

The all-year-round recreational nature of this town makes it a popular destination for both outdoor and nature enthusiasts. For the best local food and accommodation, try the Newport Motel, Derby Four Seasons, or Tavern on the Hill. For outdoor adventure, the incredible Mount Pisgah State Park has miles of hiking trails overlooked by the breathtaking sights of Lake Memphremagog and the surrounding countryside. Be sure to experience the annual Winter Festival in February and the Newport Jazz Festival in the summer, where you can enjoy excellent jazz music from world-renowned musicians. Do not miss a visit to the MAC Center for the Arts, where the works of local artists and artisans are displayed.

Discover Vermont's Quiet Charm

If you enjoy beautiful landscapes and small charming towns, Vermont is your ideal destination. With a rich historical connection, tranquility, and beautifully colored horizons, Vermont offers a breathtaking yet simple getaway from whatever may stress you. These towns are the finer things of life on a platter of gold. You should take up this offer and live life to the fullest and best, even if it is for just a while.

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THE 15 BEST Things to Do in Manchester

Things to do in manchester, tours in and around manchester.

New York to Vermont Full-Day Adventure with Private Helicopter

2 Hour Forest Immersion Retreat in Woodland Sanctuary

WW2 Small Arms Experience

Hudson River Sightseeing Cruise from Albany

Colonial Flintlock Musket Experience

Day Tour through Stowe, Vermont

Guided Brattleboro History Walking Tour

Superman Zipline Tour in Morningside

7-Hour Tour Through Montpelier and Mad River Valley, Vermont

Brewery & Spirits Tour

Top attractions in manchester.

Other Top Attractions around Manchester

What travellers are saying

7 Most Underrated, But Scenic Towns To Visit In Vermont In 2024

• Head off the beaten path and discover Vermont's underrated towns for authentic experiences in 2024.
• Brandon, Putney, Craftsbury - quiet, charming, scenic towns offering historical charm and outdoor adventures.
• Groton, Shrewsbury, Sunderland - Explore the tranquility and natural beauty of these hidden gems in Vermont.

Vermont is a year-round destination, with every season bringing its unique offerings, whether the cozy charm of winter or the dazzling colors of autumn. There’s one thing, though — most tourists often gravitate more toward famous towns like Stowe, Woodstock, Grafton, and Montpelier. Although their beauty and incredible offerings make them some of the most cozy towns to retire to in Vermont or just vacation in, there are other underrated towns in the Green Mountain State worth visiting in 2024.

These lesser-known towns offer more than natural beauty, but also the authenticity and tranquility touristy destinations lack. Most of the buildings in these underrated Vermont towns tell the history of centuries gone by, and their unsoiled natural spaces offer a much-needed respite from places with bustling crowds.

Ready to go off the beaten path? Authentic experiences await in these quaint but scenic towns in Vermont, worth visiting in 2024.

7 Small Towns To See In Vermont When It Finally Stops Snowing

Brandon, rutland county, also called the "art and soul" of vermont, this town has several charming galleries and studios (without the crowds of brattleboro, another artsy town).

This beautiful town in Vermont is often overshadowed by well-known towns like Rutland and Middlebury, both located less than a 25-minute drive away. Set at the foothills of the Green Mountains, Vermont’s most picturesque region with many things to do , Brandon offers a quieter vacation experience.

A natural space like the Moosalamoo National Recreation Area features scenic hikes like the uncrowded Silver Lake Trail . This 2-3 hour hike starts at Route 53/Lake Dunmore Road, taking adventurers to Silver Lake Campground , where they can camp or admire the views, then back.

Tourists looking for undemanding adventures visit the Brandon Artists Guild with masterpieces of Vermont’s artists or Foley Brothers Brewing for the finest beers.

Putney, Windham County

A welcoming town that radiates warmth.

Putney is a small yet scenic town home to one of Vermont’s oldest still-operating general stores. Its General Store is the perfect spot to pick food items and a vast assortment of beverages before heading out for various outdoor activities.

Hiking enthusiasts head to Putney Town Forest to tackle its two hiking trails, with Putney Mountain Hawk Watch being the most popular. Rated easy, this 1.3-mile route is a premier bird-watching destination where hikers can watch hawks during their migrating season (spring and fall). The views are also magical, especially at the summit, but past hikers recommend carrying a bug spray to ward off mosquitoes and other insects.

Harlow’s Sugar House , Putney Mountain Winery and Spirits , and Hidden Springs Maple are other attractions that make this Vermont town worth visiting in 2024.

More People Moved to This Underrated New England State Than Any Other In 2023

Craftsbury, orleans county, also described as "a small town with a big heart," this is the perfect spot to experience vermont's tranquil side.

Craftsbury often flies under the radar, but as one of Vermont's most quaint towns, it deserves to be explored in 2024 for its scenic attractions and laid-back charm. One of this town’s must-visit spots is Craftsbury Outdoor Center , a hub for various adventures like skiing, sculling, running, cycling, and more. Tourists, including those with kids, also have access to comfortable lodgings and dining facilities with local meals.

Once outdoor lovers have their fill, Craftsbury Farmhouse gives them a unique opportunity to immerse in more of the town’s charm. Besides featuring comfortable rooms and delicious meals at the on-site Blackbird Bistro , guests utilize the on-property walking trails, screened-in porch, and a stunning deck overlooking Whetstone Brook.

Shrewsbury, Rutland County

A historic town with lots of exciting outdoor activities in its large natural areas.

Tucked away in the mountainous area of Rutland County, Shrewsbury is an underrated Vermont town to visit in 2024. It’s among the least populated towns in Vermont , and although it lacks the hype other towns get, that doesn’t mean it’s boring or short of fascinating places to explore.

The Brown Covered Bridge , registered as a National Historic Landmark in 2014, is one spot that never fails to impress. Besides being eye-catching, it fascinates people with the history and survival of Tropical Storm Irene. Laurel Hall & Mausoleum is another National Historic Landmark that gives Shrewsbury its unique appeal and historical significance. It features Queen Anne architecture and was built by John P. Bowman, but sadly, it’s a true testament to one man’s grief.

Shrewsbury also features large areas of open land and upland waterways, which outdoor lovers explore during their getaway.

Sunderland, Bennington County

Take advantage of this town's exciting and uncrowded attractions.

Sunderland is another town in Vermont untainted by commercial tourism, offering travelers an authentic glimpse into the state’s local allure. The town is home to the historic Chiselville Covered Bridge , a perfect spot for photography, thanks to its stunning surroundings. The bridge also has its share of fame, as it was featured in a scene from Baby Room, a classic 1987 movie.

The nearby Lake Shaftsbury State Park also makes a visit to this town worthwhile. In addition to having a sandy beach (which tourists explore via rental boats), this natural haven has play and picnic areas, a snack bar, a nature trail surrounding the lake, and restrooms. Furry friends are also welcome, provided owners clean up after them.

10 Scenic Vermont Towns That Are Near Beautiful Hiking Trails For Avid Explorers

Jamaica, windham county, home to the adventure-packed jamaica state park, a hub for outdoor lovers.

The name Jamaica conjures images of the Caribbean island, known for its scenic beaches and as the birthplace of reggae. However, there’s another underrated but scenic town in Vermont that shares a name with the world-famous beach destination, but with a distinct New England charm. Located in Windham County, this lesser-known town in Vermont deserves exploration for its adventure-packed and uncrowded attractions like Jamaica State Park .

This 772-acre natural haven is the town’s crown jewel, located about half a mile from the tranquil downtown. Its unspoiled landscapes and strategic setting along a bend of the West River offer adventurers activities like camping, swimming, fishing, and hiking. Moreover, the Ball Mountain Dam is released twice a year for white water paddling along the West River. The next 2024 spring release will be from 21st to 22nd September.

Groton, Caledonia County

This town may be underrated, but those who visit it enjoy the serenity of its five state parks.

While most people choose to vacation and live in popular towns and cities like Burlington, Stowe, and Woodstock, travelers can steer off the radar in Groton. Though underrated, it deserves to be ranked as one of the most beautiful towns to visit in Vermont , especially during fall.

A spot like Groton State Forest unveils the town’s natural beauty as thrill seekers engage in activities like hiking the well-marked trails and camping. Wildlife-watching opportunities also abound since the area is home to animals like moose, deer, herons, and a variety of fish in the clear ponds.

Boulder Beach State Park is another uncrowded attraction with a rich history, where Native Americans traveled through the area to hunt, gather wild crops, and fish. Today, fun-seekers come here to admire the park’s beauty while taking advantage of rented picnic pavilions, boats, and charcoal grills.

Fall Life in Manchester

Manchester, Vermont is a beautiful place to visit all year round – and an even more wonderful place to live! Autumn’s crisp air, colorful trees, and scenic beauty make it one of the most sought-after locations to visit and to live. Whether you’re visiting for the first time, returning, or are already living here, there is nothing quite like the Autumn experience in Vermont.

Locals know that being nestled between the Green and Taconic Mountain Ranges provides majestic views and the best outdoor adventures. They relish in all that Manchester has to offer while they TASTE , SHOP , and EXPERIENCE this quintessential New England town. With world-class recreational activities, state-of-the-art facilities, award-winning schools, and premiere arts & cultural events, it’s easy to understand why folks have made Manchester, VT their home, and why visitors flock back year after year.

Want to know what Manchester Living is all about? Come STAY at one of our boutique hotels, charming inns, or re-inspired motels to experience it for yourself. Browse our designer outlets and locally-owned shops. Walk our marble sidewalks. Dip into New England history. Get to know the people and personalities that make Manchester unique. Connect with any number of our talented real estate agents, professional service providers, and school and civic leaders. Once you visit Manchester you will find it hard to leave. Never miss the Autumn glory again.

Locals love the Manchester Farmers Market – a chance to be downtown every Thursday. Local farmers, artisans, and food makers fill Adams Park while live music spills out into the surrounding streets. Be sure to stop by soon because it only lasts through October! While in downtown Manchester, locals and visitors enjoy the Manchester Riverwalk . It loops around the Factory Point Green and offers a peaceful trail along the river in the heart of Manchester.

Locals love to walk and have lots of options. From downtown, take the walking path up Bonnet Street to the Dana Thompson Memorial Park . There you’ll find the mile loop around the park which expands another 2 miles north along the historic route of the old Marble Rail trail. Walk or bike especially during these autumn months as the trails provide for a beautiful adventure. Learn more at BikeManchesterVT.com !

Fall means winter is not that far away and many of those already in the area look to fall as a sort of “last call” for outdoor chores before winter takes over. Install that mudroom you’ve always wanted, build that firepit, and make sure you’re prepared for when it’s time to turn the thermostat back up.

There are many helpful and talented service providers around town to help with all types of projects. rk Miles . There you will find a staff that is knowledgeable and who will know how to help. They have hardware and tools, paint, lumber, and so much more. No job is too big or small.

When it comes to backyard landscaping or building a new structure, Vermont can provide some difficult terrain. Let Holt Gilmour Survey Associates help! They assist with construction layout, boundary surveys, and wastewater design! Now that you have the design, don’t forget to visit Equinox Valley Nursery for all your plants and Fall décor.

Another important chore not to overlook is to ensure your heating is ready to go for the coming months of winter. Luckily, there are some options to how locals heat their homes. For oil and propane heating systems, get in touch with Cota & Cota Oil who can help take the worry out of heating your home! They also help with water heaters, space heaters, and thermostats; and if you have a hard-to-heat area, talk to them about their direct vent heaters! For those of you looking for renewable sources, and Vermont Renewable Fuels is here to help. Their softwood pellets help with carbon footprint reduction and are easy to use!

Equinox Preserve In Fall

Ready to move to Manchester? There are a number of local realtors who can help. Located in the old Kimball Gristmill in the middle of town is the Wohler Realty Group. The Wohler Realty Group team’s personal experience as second homeowners and Vermont property owners gives them a keen insight into the Vermont Lifestyle. Their knowledge and experience with resort and second home real estate is extensive with a strong record of referrals and repeat clients.

Just across the street is TPW Real Estate . TPW is a family-owned company that provides real estate sales services, seasonal & annual rentals, and professional community and property management. TPW’s team of accredited managers have a comprehensive understanding of the maintenance, management, and overall needs of all types of residential and commercial properties. They “Know Just the Place”!

From homestead to historic, Village convenience to endless acreage, the real estate in Manchester offers spectacular options for a family home, second home, or investment opportunity, in one of the most beautiful and convenient areas in Southern Vermont. Explore the feature listings of Four Seasons Sotheby’s International Realty to find the perfect Manchester home for you.

Josiah Allen Real Estate is another great option and is Southern Vermont’s oldest continuously-operated real estate brokerage, serving home buyers and sellers in the Dorset, Manchester, and Stratton Region for six decades.

Choosing a home among the many beautiful properties around Manchester will be a fun adventure, but it’s always best to be prepared. There are a number of helpful agencies around town to offer guidance and support. Located on bonnet street, W.H. Shaw Insurance Agency offers home, business, automobile, and life insurance. Just around the corner on Main Street is Finn & Stone Insurance who can help you manage and plan for all your potential risks. Another family-owned independent insurance & financial services firm close by is The Richards Group which was founded back in 1867.

Manchester’s historical architecture adds a special allure to go along with the changing of the seasons knowing that many of the buildings have weathered through fall hundreds of times. Vermont’s beauty during autumn is so captivating, you’ll be asking yourself why you haven’t settled in Manchester sooner. So maybe now is the time to look at Manchester and consider joining us as a local !

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Top Things to Do in Manchester, VT - Manchester Must-See Attractions

Things to do in manchester, tours in and around manchester.

New York to Vermont Full-Day Adventure with Private Helicopter

2 Hour Forest Immersion Retreat in Woodland Sanctuary

WW2 Small Arms Experience

Hudson River Sightseeing Cruise from Albany

Colonial Flintlock Musket Experience

Day Tour through Stowe, Vermont

Guided Brattleboro History Walking Tour

Superman Zipline Tour in Morningside

7-Hour Tour Through Montpelier and Mad River Valley, Vermont

Brewery & Spirits Tour

Top attractions in manchester.

Other Top Attractions around Manchester

What travellers are saying