A few weekends ago, Jesse and I had a girls’ weekend getaway in Manchester, Vermont, and we were staying at The Equinox Hotel. From Woodstock, drive scenic Route 100 past the Green Mountains, Coolidge State Forest, Echo Lake, Oakmore State Forest and Mount Bromley. Even as a Vermonter, I can appreciate the beauty and diversity of the rolling hills, mountains and valleys as you walk through each village.
In Manchester, we love exploring this sweet and charming town. Vermont may be a small state (though not as small as Rhode Island), but it’s always interesting to see the difference in the landscape, vibe, and unique charm of each town. Manchester has a burgeoning restaurant scene that is as stylish as it is delicious. Whether you’re a thrill seeker, adventurer or nature lover, there are plenty of boutiques to choose from and plenty to do. If you’re considering a trip to Manchester, Vermont, here are 15 things to do this summer.
15 things to do in Manchester, VT this summer
where to live
Equinox Golf Resort and Spa
Equinox provides the perfect central location for your Manchester family holiday this summer. Even better, it’s pet friendly! Indoor swimming pools, golf courses, lakes and spas make all your activities easy and convenient. Luxury resort spas are great places to relax and indulge in treatments using local products. The indoor pool is a great option for the kids rain or shine! We also really enjoyed our drinks and apps on Equinox’s beautiful front porch with the mountains in the background.
We stayed at the Orvis Inn Two Bedroom King Suite. We each have our own king size bed and full bathroom, and the adjoining suite features a living room and kitchen, a lovely common area for lounging, chatting and doing late night masks. The rooms are spacious and ideal for families and groups. *Thanks to Equinox for graciously hosting our 2 night stay. *
where to eat
copper grouse
copper grouse Just a few minutes walk from the Equinox hotel. Located at the Taconic Hotel, Copper Grouse offers American breakfast, lunch and dinner as well as delicious specialty cocktails. We love the lightly buzzed margaritas and ordered sips to share – Brussels sprouts, kale miso caesar and mussels are a must. For desert, we shared chocolate chip cookies, definitely recommend!
crooked ram
crooked ram, owned by our new friends is the outdoor restaurant experience every town needs right now.we dine outside courtyard Have the most hospitable, genuine and fun staff. With funky tunes, vibes and mouthwatering food – you can’t go wrong. This place will instantly put you in happy summer mode and you’ll never want to leave! We love olives, burrata, crab toast and margherita and verde pizza. Don’t skip the tiramisu puffs or olive oil cakes. Um!
Dorset Bakery
Dorset Bakery In the small town of Dorset, just outside Manchester, is a sweet little bakery perfect for breakfast and lunch. They have a lovely little sitting area indoors and out, and if you’re having a fun-filled day, you can bring a sandwich too.
get up for breakfast
Just ask anyone where to go for breakfast and everyone will tell you to call get up for breakfast. Pancakes and eggs are always a crowd pleaser. If you’re looking for a great no-frills dining experience, this is it.
silver fork
we walked silver fork Several times, it looks cool. The Silver Fork is located within the historic walls of the Old Markskinner Library. The menu is an eclectic mix of Caribbean and European-inspired dishes by award-winning chef Mark French. The menu changes seasonally with fresh and interesting ingredients.
Swamp Tavern
Located within the Equinox Resort, Marsh Tavern is a cosy bar with a great casual atmosphere and a delicious menu. We enjoyed happy hour on Equinox’s front porch with a delicious app and cocktails. Try the pretzels and fried pickles!
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crooked ram -
Dorset Bakery -
Equinox Resort
What should I do
Land Rover Experience
Jesse and I don’t quite know what we’re up to Land Rover Experience, what a surprise. Now that we had a chance to experience it, we are here to say that it was a very special and worthwhile visit. The Land Rover Experience offers a unique opportunity to drive a Land Rover across uniquely designed routes, including hills, rolls and rocky terrain. If you love off-roading and trying different new things, this is the adventure for you! You can book directly through Equinox Resort.
Dorset Marble Quarry
The Dorset Marble Quarry was the first marble quarry in the United States. This beautiful swimming hole is surrounded by chunks of marble and crystal clear, refreshing cold water. If you’re a thrill seeker, this local swimming spot has marble and grass for lounging and cliff jumping!
North County Bookstore
Walking into the North County Bookstore is a magical experience. This is by far the most beautiful, maintained and designed bookstore I have ever been to. Whether you’re looking for your next beach read, stationery, or gifts for kids, the store is quaint and sophisticated, with layers and sections to suit every need. If you’re a bookstore lover like me, you can spend a whole day here and leave with more bags than you carry. If you only have time to open a store in Manchester, North County Bookstore is required!
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Dorset Marble Quarry -
North County Bookstore
Equinox Golf Club
Equinox Golf Club It is a beautiful course overlooking the Green Mountains. Perfect for beginner, intermediate and advanced skill levels, this relaxing course offers a range of holes and a variety of shots. Jesse and I had a chance to play a few holes on our first night and it was really fun to play the course when the sun went down. The view is absolutely stunning.
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Equinox Golf Course
Dorset Union Store
Dorset Union Store Everything you could want in a historic Vermont general store. They have a curated selection of Vermont cuisine, breakfast and lunch deli options while respecting the history of the store and town.
Stratton Snowmaking Pool
If you are looking for a more leisurely swimming experience Stratton Snowmaking PoolAbout a 15-minute drive from Manchester, it is a good choice. A local favorite, it is the pond where Stratton Hill draws water to make snow in winter. Swim or paddle while admiring the views overlooking the Green Mountains. We bought sandwiches from Dorset Bakery, took them to enjoy, and then took a dip. It’s cold but refreshing.
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Stratton Snowmaking Pool
Equinox Preserve Pond and Trail
Equinox Preserve and Pond Trail includes 11 miles of maintenance trails of varying difficulty. The trails are pet friendly, just don’t forget the leash. Mountain bikers are welcome, but singletrack trails should be avoided. Choose your adventure, whether it’s an easy pond loop or a more challenging ascent to the top.
goat
For outdoor enthusiasts, head to Goat Mountain for all the gear, shoes and clothing you need. They have an amazing selection of brands and styles for the whole family including: Patagonia, Prana, Teva, Columbia, Chaco, Birkenstock, Blundstone, Salomon, Smartwool and many more.
Vermont Kitchen Supplies
Lovely store for all your kitchen needs. If you love cooking and baking, this is your happy place.
Manchester is a great New England vacation destination (from Woodstock, VT). Lots of great options for shopping, dining, hiking, biking and swimming this summer! Whether you’re an explorer or just looking to relax, Manchester has options for families and couples.
