Vermont’s many mountains pop with color as the splendor of Fall sweeps its way across the state. The evening air becomes cool and crisp, prompting the locals to break out their vests, scarves, and hats to keep cozy while walking through farmers markets, celebrating festivals, and heading out for an outdoor adventure or shopping spree. Whatever you may end up planning to do this autumn, be sure to get outside! One favorite local fall-time activity is to head to the mountains and take in the majestic views. Just a short drive from downtown Manchester, you have three fantastic options: ride the Stratton Mountain Resort gondola to the tallest peak in southern Vermont or ascend Bromley Mountain aboard the Sun Mountain Express or take the scenic 5.2-mile Mount Equinox Skyline Drive to its summit. Each offers unique views and memorable experiences—our recommendation? Don’t settle for just one; enjoy them all!
One place to find beautiful views of the surrounding mountain ranges in town is the Dana Thompson Memorial Park. The Park encompasses more than 88 acres, featuring three baseball diamonds, multipurpose athletic fields, three playgrounds for kids of all ages, a one-mile walking path, a dog park, a skateboard park, outdoor basketball courts, and three tennis/pickleball courts. Head to the northeast corner of the park where you can access the Manchester Rail Trail, which leads to the Northshire Civic Center/Riley Rink at Hunter Park and beyond. This 2.5-mile trail, formerly a railroad track that transported marble from the Dorset quarries, is the perfect length for a leisurely stroll, run, or bike ride while taking in the beautiful scenery.
Feeling sporty? Swing by (no pun intended) the Northshire Civic Center/Riley Rink at Hunter Park to enjoy frisbee golf, hit some balls at the 802 Golf Range, or try out their indoor golf simulator. From mid-October to early March, the facility offers public skating, featuring a learn-to-skate program, youth and adult hockey leagues. Plus, it is home to the Northshire Skating Academy, Northshire Hockey Association, and Burr and Burton High School Hockey!
Not only can you take in the stunning scenery, but you can also indulge in the rich flavors of the season’s harvest. Many local restaurants and cafes feature dishes and desserts that celebrate the bounty of autumn, often sourcing their ingredients from local Vermont farmer’s and purveyor’s
A must-try experience is at The Dorset Inn., where seasonal offerings highlight the best locally sourced ingredients. Enjoy the unique tastes of fall while appreciating the beautiful surroundings! The warm and welcoming ambiance of the Dorset Inn’s historic dining room, and the cozy New England tavern, near Manchester VT, allows guests to relax and enjoy the food, the wine, and the friendly Southern VT hospitality. As a member of Vermont Fresh Network, we support as many local farms and businesses as possible, and our food includes the freshest ingredients. Our cuisine is uncomplicated, and bistro-style. It demonstrates classic culinary techniques and traditions, with regional Southern Vermont influences. To showcase Vermont’s four unique seasons, the menu changes frequently.
Discover the treasure trove of local farms found all around Vermont that make farm-to-table fare at The Copper Grouse possible. The Copper Grouse offers a range of dining options to suit different tastes and occasions. Whether you prefer cozy, rustic indoor seating or the scenic, relaxed outdoor patio and firepit, you can enjoy a memorable dining experience with high-quality food and excellent service. Living off the land is a matter of course in Vermont, and the chef sources ingredients from local farms to create a menu of familiar yet inimitable fare.
Fresh fare rooted in tradition can be found at Johnny Seesaw’s restaurant as they serve up simple, inventive food with deep connections to the surrounding area and the inn’s heritage. With the main dining room in the footprint of the 1924 roadhouse, every effort has been made to recreate the wonder, look, and feel of the original Johnny Seesaw’s. Inside, you will see the original log beams in the ceiling, the same bandstand (aka the “Seducerie”) mural that was painted in the WWII era, the legendary circular fire pit with the original black hood and copper cutouts, and the old fieldstone fireplace with authentic wood relief carvings. Incorporating local ingredients with a fresh twist, our menu celebrates Vermont and elevates comfort food.
Reminiscent of a historic New England farmhouse, Hampton Inn & Suites by Hilton Manchester is a uniquely designed hotel that embodies tradition with modern sensibilities. Outdoor seating areas with a fire pit and lush landscaping create a welcoming atmosphere that feels like home. The property offers both traditional rooms and studio suites, all equipped with microwaves, small refrigerators, and coffee makers. Each morning, savor a complimentary hot breakfast in the inviting breakfast room, which boasts soaring ceilings, an expansive stone fireplace, and views of the distant Green Mountain Range. Enjoy a delicious meal and embrace the beauty of the season.
Wake up to one of the most spectacular mountain views in Manchester – the Green and Taconic Mountain Ranges rising above the historic Battenkill Valley when you stay at the North Shire Lodge. Then head over to the Lodge’s lounge for breakfast. Each room has an 8-foot-wide sliding glass door and a private patio for you to enjoy the beautiful view. The uniquely designed rooms have cathedral ceilings and all the amenities you would expect from any quality hotel, inn, or bed & breakfast.
Whether you’re visiting for the day or traveling from afar, there’s never enough time in one day to experience all that Manchester has to offer. Why not STAY with us? Spend a night or two at one of our historic resorts, boutique hotels, charming inns, modern motels, or vacation rentals, and enjoy another day in Manchester, VT. Book now as Fall dates fill up quickly.
Before the last leaf falls and the snow begins to fly, it’s important to ensure your heating system is ready for winter. Fortunately, Manchester is home to many service professionals who can assist you. Cota & Cota has been keeping neighbors warm and safe since 1941. They offer reliable heating, cooling, and plumbing products and services, with a mission to strengthen our community and provide dependable service. Their highly trained technicians, delivery drivers, and customer service representatives are the backbone of the company, committed to delivering the excellent service you deserve.
Alternatively, Vermont Renewable Fuels is dedicated to reducing the region’s reliance on imported fossil fuels by promoting affordable, locally sourced renewable energy. Their pellet deliveries from last heating season displaced approximately 220,000 gallons of oil, and their pellet system installations have saved customers over $500,000 in heating costs to date.
Whether you’re planning a trip, currently visiting, or live and work in the Manchester area, discover everything we have to offer by visiting ManchesterVermont.com.
