It’s that wonderful time of year when the multi-colored leaves fall, providing a satisfying crunch with every step. Our region offers some of the most scenic year-round vistas, made even more unforgettable during the Fall season. Even a simple drive down a backroad can unexpectedly lead to a picture-perfect scene.
Autumn’s warm days and cool crisp nights make it the right time to break out your favorite fall sweater or light jacket as you enjoy the season. If you forgot to bring one or if you’re just looking to update your Fall wardrobe, our area is a shopper’s dream. With a host of charming boutiques and one-of-a-kind shops, you can find just about anything your heart desires. Don’t need to update your Fall wardrobe? It’s never too early to begin your holiday shopping as our designer outlets offer some of the best deals year-round.
Immerse yourself in Harvest season and partake in the bounty of our region. Visit a local farm, orchard, or pumpkin patch for a memorable experience and to get your fill of the season’s delights. One of the must-stops is Equinox Valley Nursery, where you procure everything needed to decorate for the Autumn season and have your space looking festive! They offer wreaths, flowers, pumpkins, gourds, and even corn stalks! Hop on a wagon ride in their “North Field” or embark on an adventure through the corn maze!
There are plenty of fun Fall events filling up our Community Events Calendar. Join North Meadow Farm on Saturday, October 12th from 10am to 4pm at its 4th Annual Fall Festival on The Farm! You’ll find live music, games, crafts, hayrides, adorable animals, and the best darn local food around! Embrace the vibrant hues of autumn with a scenic wagon ride through Hildene Farm at the Lincoln Family Home. Nestled between the majestic Green and Taconic Mountains, Hildene offers breathtaking panoramic views of fall foliage. Climb aboard the big, red tractor-drawn wagon for a leisurely tour of the expansive lower portion of the property known as the dene. More than just a scenic tour, the wagon ride offers a glimpse into Hildene’s commitment to sustainability. Wagon rides will be offered on October 12th, from 10:30am to 2:30pm. Learn about the estate’s diverse ecosystems and the innovative farming practices that nourish the land. You also won’t want to miss Stratton Mountain’s HarvestFest’s Brewfest & Chili Cook-Off, and Octoberfest the weekend of October 12!
Join us for a frightfully fun time at the annual Halloween on the Hill at the Southern Vermont Arts Center on Saturday, October 26, from 1pm to 5pm! Then, continue the festivities at the Northshire Bookstore on Sunday, October 27, for a special spooky story time featuring Halloween classics and some of our booksellers’ favorite creepy tales, including Millie Fleur’s Poison Garden and How Do Dinosaurs Say Trick or Treat. Come in your best costume—if you dare!
If you are in search of opportunities for beautiful Autumn vistas and experiences, be sure to visit the American Museum of Fly Fishing, thanks to its proximity to the Orvis fields and ponds. Stroll around the beautiful grounds and be sure to stop in to learn a bit more about Fly Fishing and its history! The American Museum of Fly Fishing is the steward of the history, traditions, and practices of the sport of fly fishing and promotes the conservation of its waters. The Museum collects, preserves, exhibits, studies, and interprets the artifacts, art, and literature of the sport and, through a variety of outreach platforms, uses these resources to engage, educate, and benefit all.
Looking to bring the whole gang together to immerse yourself in this beautiful season? Manchester offers vacation rentals from cozy cottages to 12-bedroom homes and everything in between. VermontVacation-Rentals.com offers two separate unique homes located just north of the town center. One with 3 bedrooms/3.5 baths and the other with 4 bedrooms/4.5 baths. All with fully equipped kitchens right down to an ice cream scoop. Each has 2+ acres of land and beautiful views of the Green Mountains in any season. Why stay in a room when you can all stay together in your own home away from home?
For over 120 years, The Wilburton has offered privacy, inspiration, and the most breathtaking views in Southern Vermont. The 30-acre estate in Manchester Village is a respite from the world and offers vacation home rentals for your Summer and Winter adventures. From 1-bedroom romantic guest studios, and spacious 2-bedroom cottages, to grand 6 & 8-bedroom private homes or the spectacular turn-of-the-century 11-bedroom luxurious private mansion, the Wilburton offers a wide range of accommodations at affordable rates. Whether you’re an individual traveler, a couple looking for a romantic getaway, a family looking for larger accommodations, or a group of friends or family looking to host your next reunion, the Vacation Home Rentals at the Wilburton has something for everyone.
Whether you’re looking for breakfast or dinner or anything in between, visit any one of our local cafes or restaurants offering some of the best seasonal, delectable delights. If you’re in a hurry to get out and explore, grab-and-go is available at many of our eateries. For those who like a more leisurely morning or are winding down for the evening, come in, take a seat, and dine inside or dine al fresco. With outside dining options galore, take in the views while sipping on a mug of hot apple cider, hot cocoa, or your favorite drink with a hint of something seasonal. Of course, don’t forget the cider donuts, apple pies, or pumpkin-inspired desserts.
Wide plank floors, roaring fireplaces, and antique furnishings recalling 18th-century New England await you at Ye Olde Tavern. Listed with the Vermont Register of Historic Places, the tavern building was first constructed in 1790 by Dorset Master Architect, Aaron Sheldon, as The Stagecoach Inn. Menu selections include regional dishes — Yankee Pot Roast and Lobster Bisque, for example — along with traditional continental favorites. You’ll find Prime Rib, Shrimp Scampi, and Chicken Piccata on the daily menu, plus vegetarian offerings, seasonal specials, and kid-friendly options. An excellent wine list and a carefully curated selection of vintage cocktails are always available.
Whether you’re looking for adventure or just a quiet escape, Manchester is just the place. For a quaint mountain town, we’ve got all the big perks: world-class heritage sites, award-winning cultural venues, incredible galleries and museums, and recreational activities to suit even the most ardent enthusiast. Experience Manchester today!
