Manchester, Vermont is a weird town. It’s 4,400 residents live within 42 square miles. Even with such few people, it has a lot going on. Walk down Main Street, and you’ll see the town in a nutshell: New Yorkers toting shopping bags from Armani Exchange, shirtless hikers looking for a hitch, locals walking dogs, and school kids filing into the local café and froyo shop.
From restaurants to hiking trails, there’s always something to do. Here’s a local's guide on what not to miss.
1. Equinox Mountain
Whether you’re taking a stroll, going on a hike, or going on a spiritual journey, Equinox Mountain is a wonder to behold. Driving up the mountain in Arlington is the easy route, but many others hike to the top. The local high school’s graduating seniors attempt the summit each school year (it's the tallest mountain in the Taconic range and in Bennington County). There are also tons of look-outs along the path, if you want to explore different trails and views.
2. Equinox Pond
If you’re not up for a super-long hike, Equinox Pond is your next best sight in town. The perfect place to walk a dog, sunbathe with friends, and get a little bit of fresh air.
3. Equinox Nursery
Autumn is the best time to frequent this location– there are more decorative gourds than you can count, the pumpkin patch is full of families anticipating Halloween, and the cider donuts are too hard to pass up. Sure, sometimes the line for hot cider donuts and hot mulled cider can get a little long, but that just proves that they're a hot commodity.
4. The Equinox Hotel
One of the nicest and most historic hotels in town, the Equinox is a hot-spot for tourists. As a local, I love the hotel as well. The hotel's lobby space is generally open to anyone. A great pastime in the summer is watching (and maybe even crashing) weddings and parties happen in the backyards and ballrooms. In the winter, relaxing by the open fire pit with a drink and a blanket is a super cozy way to end a day of skiing.
5. Ben & Jerry's
A Vermont staple for everyone, Ben and Jerry's is a must-visit location. Our pop-up, seasonal scoop shop is anticipated all year long. As a local, Free Cone Day is a holiday– school kids go down to the shop and queue up time and time again. In the summer, local high schoolers and college students work at the shop, creating a really fun and relaxed atmosphere. If you know an employee, you might even be able to get a dixie cup of ice cream for free!
6. The Works (Bagel Works)
The original is in Manchester, Vermont. The shop makes bagels fresh every day and makes fresh-made smoothies, paninis, and wraps. The shop stands for people, planet, and profit and strives to make good food for good people. This is a frequent stop for locals headed to work and high schoolers escaping cafeteria food during their lunch period.
7. Northshire Bookstore
Now with a location in Saratoga Springs, NY, Northshire Bookstore was founded and thrives in Manchester, VT. The 10,000 square foot, family owned, independent bookstore is a hit for all ages. The adult section has used books, cooking books, best-sellers, and everything inbetween. The children’s section takes up it’s own floor with novels, crafts, toys, and clothes. They host authors and music events. The store also throws parties for big book releases (the 7th Harry Potter release parties might be the best party I've ever attended).
It’s easy to spend an afternoon getting lost for an afternoon in a good book, comfy chair, and shadowed corner.
8. Spiral Press Café
Attached to the bookstore, Spiral Press Café is adored by locals and tourists. I’m not afraid to admit that I probably eat here twice or more weekly during the summer (sorry I hate packed lunches!) The coffee will always be the best in town, even if Starbucks just moved in on Depot street. The cookies and pastries are only rivals by the late Lion Share Bakery and the Second Rising Bakery & Cafe across the street.
9. Second Rising
After the Lawyer and Baker closed for a few years, Second Rising Bakery and Cafe was reestablished in 2014. With the revival came the revival of the best mac and cheese in town. That's honestly all I have to say on the matter. Get the mac and cheese.
10. Sushi Boat
I've lived in and travelled to a lot of places since leaving my permanent home in Manchester. Still, some of the best sushi I’ve ever had has come from The Sushi Boat. If you frequent as often as I do, you’ll get to know the amazing man who owns and runs the shop. Ralph is super friendly and always gives his best customers gift cards around the holiday season! Don't make the mistake of going on Sundays or Mondays when the shop is closed.
11. Depot 62 Store and Bistro
This shop offers amazing European and Mediterranean furniture and rugs. It also offers the best pizza in the area. Though more expensive than your average pie, stopping in is worth it for the fresh ingredients and unique ambience.
12. Village Picture Shows
13. Dana L. Thompson Memorial Park
Whether you're going for a swim, skating at the skate park, or watching a football game at Applejack Field, the Rec Park is the perfect backdrop for an action-packed day. The entire town is guaranteed to stop by the park on the Fourth of July for fireworks and open swim.
There's so many things to do in our small town– too many to list here! From shops to restaurants to outdoor venues, there's no way to be truly bored in this Southern Vermont town.
