6 Must-Do Fall Activities in Manchester, Vermont

A mere 19 miles from the Stratton Mountain Village sits the historical, quintessential New England town of Manchester, Vermont. Nestled among the astonishing Green Mountains, the town is filled with diverse retail outlet stores, small town coffee shops and a multitude of dining options. We explored Manchester to bring you the most unique fall activities in the area.

1. Immerse yourself in Fall at the Equinox Valley Nursery

Located on Route 7A in Manchester, the Nursery is filled with fun fall activities. Explore the crazy corn maze, with help from cartoon characters to get you through to the other side. Pick your own pumpkins – don’t forget to pick up a pumpkin carving kit sold in the gift shop. The cider doughnuts are a not-to-miss treat. Baked right at the Nursery,  they were still warm from baking from the oven when we got ours! Be sure to pick up some fresh apple cider- hot, cold or deliciously mulled. Take a wagon ride through the field to view breathtaking fall foliage on the surrounding mountains. Don’t miss the pumpkin carving festival on October 17! Oh, and look out for the kitty cats walking around the property, they love to be patted. Be sure to bring a camera, the views are like no other. For more information, visit the Nursery’s website here. 

2. Get the Best Foliage View on Equinox Skyline Drive 

What better way to view the vibrant fall foliage colors than from the Highest Peak in the Taconic Mountain range? Drive the Equinox Skyline Drive to the top elevation on 3,848 feet for spectacular views of the surrounding Green Mountains. Bonus: print this coupon to get $2.00 off your ride! Keep in mind that the toll road closes October 31st.  For directions, rates and more information, visit here. 

3. Sample Fresh VT Fare at Local Farmers Markets

Photo Credit: Manchester Farmers Market Facebook. Click photo for more.
Photo Credit: Manchester Farmers Market Facebook. Click photo for more.

One of the most magical parts about living in Vermont is always having access to the freshest local produce, meat, baked goods and more. The Manchester Farmers Market runs every Thursday through October 9, rain or shine and features over 30 of the best local farmers, bakers, musicians  and artists. For more information, visit here. Reading this past October 9? Check out the year-round Dorset Farmers Market, right down the street from Manchester Center.

4. Explore the Northshire Book Store

Photo Credit: Northshire Facebook. Click photo for more.
Photo Credit: Northshire Facebook. Click photo for more.

Not like your every day Barnes-and-Noble, the Northshire Book Store is bursting with small town Vermont charm and a wide array of books, art, jewelry and unique gifts. Family owned since 1976, the store has evolved into a modern day bookseller with specially trained, eager-to-help staff. Be sure to grab a cup of joe and fresh baked goods at the Spiral Press Cafe (attached to the store) as you enjoy your new book.  Learn more here. 

5. Blow Glass at Manchester Hot Glass 

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Craft your own bowl, vase, pint glass, paper weight and many more glass objects with the professionals at Manchester Hot Glass. You’ll be surprised at the beauty you can create! Learn everything you need to know on Venture Vermont: Manchester Hot Glass.

6. Apple Picking at Mad Tom Orchard 

stratton venture vermont
The surrounding mountains are breathtaking.

Located about 20 minutes north of Manchester Center, the Orchard is nestled between the large Green Mountains and boasts 8 acres of the best southern Vermont apples. Family owned since 1962, this is a place the whole family can enjoy. Visit out Venture Vermont blog to learn everything you need to know about visiting the Orchard.

Important Links

Columbus Day Weekend Events 

Manchester & the Mountains 

Manchester.gov

 

About the Author

12790880_10154042121438689_4862440859600777479_nCassie Russo |  Growing up in central Massachusetts, Cassie ventured to the snowy mountains of Vermont almost every weekend until her late teens to enjoy her passion – snowboarding.  After working at a ski shop while studying for a degree in journalism, Cassie knew Vermont was her next destination.  You can now find her living her dream of residing in Vermont, pursuing a writing career and strapping a snowboard to her feet every day. When the snow melts, you can find her on her paddle board, on the tennis courts and searching for the next adventure.
Cassie’s Instagram and Twitter:@cassachusetts