An easy drive from Boston, New York City, and much of the northeast, Manchester provides an ideal getaway to enjoy nature, history, and small-town charm. Located in southern Vermont, it sits in a valley between the Green Mountains and the Taconic Ridge offering picturesque views no matter which way you face. The town dates back to the late 1700s and has churches, inns, taverns, and schools that give you a glimpse into history. The Orvis Company was started here back in 1856 and has since become the gold standard for fly fishing equipment in the country. In the next century, innovation continued with Burton snowboards which started in a local garage and then moved to Burlington in 1992. Today you find a wonderful juxtaposition of the charm and history mixed with the modern niceties of fine dining, craft beer, luxuries inns, and designer outlets.
Where to Stay:
The Equinox Resort and Spa combines a rich sense of history (you can tell by the slanted floors and shutters) and tradition with superb service and contemporary amenities to make for an easeful, elegant stay. Part of Marriott’s Luxury Collection, guests can earn or redeem their rewards points and enjoy special perks when booking through Spear Travel Group. Two restaurants and The Falcon Bar onsite, along with a spa, indoor pool, outdoor hot tub, outdoor fire pit, and lawn games for the kids. The hotel is pet friendly (hosted by their hotel dog – Cooper) and can accommodate larger families in their townhouses or the nearby Orvis Inn.
The Kimpton Taconic is one of Manchester’s newest lodging options, inspired by Vermont’s grand inns of the past. Taconic greets its guests with clapboard architecture and a grand front porch opening up onto the main street. Guests enjoy fresh, clean, and well-appointed rooms along with welcoming common areas complete with a wood-burning fireplace. Also, pet friendly and accommodating to families with suite and cottage options.
The Reluctant Panther is billed as Vermont’s finest small luxury hotel offering guests 20 unique rooms and suites set amongst its three campus locations. Each room has its fireplace, a plush king or queen bed, a luxury bathroom, and curated art throughout. Probably best for a romantic getaway with just the two of you. A daily breakfast basket is included, but make sure you save time and room to sample a full meal at the namesake restaurant.
Where to Eat:
Manchester has become known for its wonderful food from casual outdoor dining to upscale award-winning restaurants. We always recommend sampling a little bit of everything and planning out your meals ahead of time to avoid missing out on a reservation. Start with your dinners and be sure to book our favorites (best bites) – The Reluctant Panther (crispy brussels sprouts), The Silver Fork (duck spring roll), and Ye Olde Tavern (lobster mac and cheese). For lunch, we love The Copper Grouse and Zoey’s Deli which will provide the fuel for your afternoon activities. Or you can opt to keep things going after lunch with a stop at The Crooked Ram or some local brews, hand-selected wines, and tasty lite bites.
Where to Explore:
Easily accessible from the hotels listed, check out the Equinox Trail which will take you to the highest point around for majestic views. This is the longest (4 hours) and hardest trail, but there are options for all levels that still allow you to get exercise and enjoy the scenery.
Fly fishing enthusiasts know this is Orvis Country and you will be able to get your fill in the museum, the store, and the school all set on city grounds. It’s a fun place to explore with the kids even if you have no desire to actually go fishing.
There is a Land Rover Driving Experience available throughout the year that allows drivers to go off-road on a purpose-built 80-acre site. You do not have to worry about staying in your lane and screaming is encouraged.
There are some designer stores along with a good mix of local artisan shops. Our favorite is the Northshire Manchester Bookstore which provides the full experience for readers or non-readers of any age.
When to Visit:
This is truly a place that can be enjoyed in all seasons. However, you will find smaller crowds in the late fall after the leaves have fallen, but before the snow has, along with the late Spring when the snow is melting and the trees are just starting to bud. It really depends on what you enjoy doing and where you feel most comfortable. There is a time and place for all types of travelers in Manchester and we hope to plan your trip in the near future.
