Vermont’s famous foliage season is quickly approaching! The bursts of color that sweep over the Green Mountain State bring ‘leaf peepers’ from across the world. Being nestled in between the Green and Taconic Mountain ranges makes Manchester, Vermont an incredibly unique place to witness this beautiful change of season. As you stroll along the marble sidewalks, shop our boutiques, or dine al fresco in Southern Vermont’s culinary mecca, don’t forget to stop and take in the pops of yellows, oranges, and reds that can be seen throughout the valley and picturesque mountain ranges that can only be experienced here in Manchester.
With an impressive mix of locally owned boutiques, designer outlets, a famous indie bookstore, artisan galleries, and local cafés and bakeries, you can look fabulous, find great treasures, and dine to your heart’s content, all on a single tranquil and beautiful stroll. Find the latest Fall fashions at many of our local boutiques and designer outlets featuring autumn-inspired clothing, including cozy sweaters, scarves, and other accessories.
For the outdoor enthusiast, stop into locally owned and operated The Mountain Goat. Located on historic Main Street, the Mountain Goat offers the best in backcountry clothing and equipment for travel and trekking. You’ll find jackets and outerwear for rain, casual sportswear in all fabrics, and a full selection of gear which includes backpacks and luggage, sleeping bags, tents, trekking poles, and accessories, including the best footwear. What better way to prepare for Fall’s splendor and outdoor activities? Best of all, they have something for all ages.
If you’re looking for indoor or outdoor Seasonal Décor, stop in at any one of our boutique stores or local artisan galleries and craft shops. Artists will be showcasing their fall-themed creations, including paintings, pottery, and other handmade items, and browse a variety of Fall-themed decorations, such as pumpkins, wreaths, and other items to help you embrace the Fall spirit.
A visit to the area wouldn’t be complete without a visit to a local Farmers Market, especially with the Fall harvest season in full swing. You can pick up fresh apples, pumpkins, gourds, pies, and other seasonal produce and handcrafted items. The Manchester Farmers Market takes place each Thursday from 3pm – 6pm through October 12 on Adams Green, in the heart of Manchester, and the Dorset Farmers Market is every Sunday from 10am – 2pm year-round.
Just a hop, skip, and jump from Manchester Center, kids of all ages, (yes that includes adults) can enjoy traditional Fall activities. From apple picking at Mad Tom Orchards – pumpkin picking at Equinox Valley Nursery’s Pumpkin Patch, where you can also take a wagon ride with Green and Taconic Mountain Range views or get lost in their expansive corn maze.
There is so much more to EXPERIENCE in Manchester.
Hungry for autumn flavors? It’s easy to work up an appetite strolling through the many wonderful places to shop and experience Manchester. Stop in at one of our local cafes and bakeries for a delicious breakfast or hearty lunch and indulge in seasonal treats. Conveniently found next to Northshire Bookstore is Charlie’s Coffee House, where not only can you fulfill all your coffee and fresh baked goods needs, but also offer grab-and-go sandwiches, soups, salads, and much, much more! Don’t forget to ask about their seasonal offerings- from pumpkin spice lattes to a Maple Bonfire Latte to other Fall-themed goodies. Take a seat on their front porch or sit at one of the outside tables and enjoy Mount Equinox Views.
For dinner, enjoy the culinary creations of the Raven’s Den Steakhouse and Taproom. Catering to a variety of tastes – from tender and juicy Black Angus steaks to classic seafood dishes to a salad bar stocked with seasonal produce, handcrafted dressings, Vermont cheeses, and freshly baked bread – there is truly something for everyone. In celebration of the harvest season, enjoy some of their specialty seasonal desserts!
Enjoy your meal in their upscale relaxed dining room, quench your thirst with a custom cocktail in front of the stone fireplace, or enjoy some casual eats including a grass-fed burger in the tavern. Plus, you’ll love their seasonal outdoor seating with beautiful Vermont views to take in all that autumn beauty!
Fall is a popular time to visit Manchester, so it’s advisable to book lodging as well in advance as possible. Offering a wide range of lodging options from grand resorts, boutique hotels, quaint Inns, modern motels, and vacation rentals, Manchester, Vermont has something to fit every taste and budget and they are all ready and waiting to welcome you and your traveling companions to Southern Vermont.
Stay in the heart of historic Manchester Village at Vermont’s premier small luxury hotel, the Reluctant Panther. A quintessential New England getaway known for its historic charm, luxurious accommodations, gourmet dining, and exceptional service. Guests will have unparalleled views of Equinox Mountain, from their luxurious rooms featuring antique furnishings, fine art, luxury bathrooms, and cozy fireplaces. Whether choosing from their selection of packages or allowing the staff to curate your Vermont experience, The Reluctant Panther provides exceptional service to all who visit. From fly-fishing to skiing, theatre, and the arts, to shopping and farmers markets, the Panther takes great pleasure in making every day an unforgettable adventure!
The North Shire Lodge, nestled in the historic Battenkill Valley, affords sweeping views of the Green and Taconic Mountain Ranges. Guests delight in this special place of tranquility and natural beauty. Set on five-and-a-half acres and surrounded by mountain landscapes, it is suited to host all types of travelers, from singles to couples and families, and friends traveling together. It’s the perfect location for family reunions, getaways, and those attending events at nearby Manchester venues. Each of the 14 “attached cabins” features unique rustic Vermont décor, cathedral ceilings, comfortable beds, an ensuite bathroom, and a private patio to take in the lovely garden, lawn, and mountain views. All the modern conveniences are provided by this top-rated lodging property.
Whether you are just visiting, planning to move, or are already living in the Manchester area, please stop by the Manchester Visitor Center at 58B Depot Street to find FREE brochures, magazines, maps, and a team of local professionals ready to guide and answer all your questions!
