Guide to Visiting Manchester Vermont in the Fall
Visiting Manchester, Vermont in the fall is a true delight for nature enthusiasts and those seeking a quintessential New England experience. The town comes alive with vibrant hues as the foliage transforms the landscape into a breathtaking canvas of reds, oranges, and yellows. A stroll through the charming streets of Manchester Village reveals historic buildings adorned with pumpkins and fall decorations. The crisp air invites outdoor exploration, whether it's a scenic hike through the mountains, apple picking at local orchards, or a leisurely drive along picturesque country roads. After a day of immersing in nature's beauty, cozy up in one of the town's charming inns or indulge in the flavors of the season at farm-to-table restaurants. With its captivating scenery and warm small-town ambiance, Manchester is a beautiful place to experience in the fall!
Planning to visit Manchester, Vermont this fall? I’m sharing the best things to do, where to stay, eat, and more!
Credit: @pete_james_photo
When is the best time to visit Manchester, Vermont for fall foliage?
The best time to visit is from mid to late October. However, the exact timing can vary slightly from year to year due to the weather. The foliage season typically lasts for a few weeks, with the peak colors occurring during this time. I will say though, I visited the first week of October (5th & 6th) and it was less crowded, plus the fall colors popping through the mix of greenery was still so beautiful to see!
Best places to stay in Manchester
There are lots of great places to stay in Manchester, but here are the top 5!
The Equinox Golf Resort & Spa ($$$) - This historic luxury resort offers a blend of elegance, comfort, and outdoor recreation. It features well-appointed rooms, a golf course, a spa, multiple dining options, and beautiful grounds, plus it faces the beautiful Equinox Pond!
Kimpton Taconic Hotel ($$$) - A boutique hotel located in the heart of Manchester Village, the Kimpton Taconic Hotel offers stylish and cozy accommodations. It boasts comfortable rooms, a farm-to-table restaurant, a fitness center, and a warm and welcoming atmosphere.
Wilburton Inn ($$) - Situated on a hilltop, Wilburton Inn provides a unique experience with its historic charm and beautiful grounds. It offers a variety of rooms, suites, and vacation homes, along with amenities like a swimming pool, tennis courts, and a sculpture garden.
The Inn at Manchester ($) - Nestled amidst scenic surroundings, The Inn at Manchester provides a peaceful retreat. The inn features comfortable rooms, a seasonal outdoor pool, a garden, and a complimentary breakfast.
Manchester View ($) - Known for its stunning views of the Green Mountains, Manchester View offers spacious suites and cottages with fireplaces and private decks. The property also includes an outdoor pool and picnic areas.
Best places to eat in Manchester
There are lots of great places to grab a bite in Manchester, here are a few favorite restaurants to check out:
Up for Breakfast
Spiral Press Cafe
The Works Cafe
Gringo Jack’s
Cilantro
SoLo Farm & Table
Ye Old Tavern
Mystic Cafe and Wine Bar
Marsh Tavern
Best things to do in Manchester
Whether you seek outdoor adventures, cultural experiences, or simply a tranquil escape surrounded by stunning foliage, Manchester offers an array of the best things to do in the fall, ensuring an unforgettable experience in this picturesque Vermont destination!
Equinox Pond
Equinox Pond is my favorite photo spot in Manchester! As the leaves change to brilliant shades of red, orange, and gold, the reflections on the calm surface of Equinox Pond create a captivating scene. The walking trail that encircles the pond provides a leisurely opportunity to immerse yourself in the beauty of the fall foliage. The crisp air and the peaceful ambiance make it a perfect spot for a leisurely stroll, photoshoot, or even a fun fall picnic!
Equinox Preserve
With an extensive network of trails, Equinox Preserve offers a wonderful opportunity to explore the natural beauty of the area. Whether you're an avid hiker or prefer a leisurely stroll, there are trails suited for various skill levels. As you traverse the paths, you'll be greeted with breathtaking vistas, dense forests, babbling brooks, and serene ponds—all enhanced by the rich tapestry of fall foliage. Looking for the best trail to take at Equinox Preserve? Check out the Red Gate Trail! It’s a popular trail known for its accessibility and scenic beauty. This moderate-level trail starts near the Equinox Resort and follows a well-marked path through the forest. The trail is approximately 2.5 miles long, offering a good balance of distance and manageable terrain.
Credit: Connie Grant
Credit: Sara
Visit a covered bridge
Chiselville Covered Bridge and Arlington Covered Bridge are two covered bridges that are the closest to Manchester and are one of the many popular photo spots in the area. They make the perfect fall foliage backdrop for an Instagram-worthy photo! Just make sure to be safe and wait for cars to pass before snapping a photo.
Credit: bryan struble
Skyline Drive & Mount Equinox
Skyline Drive is a historic roadway between Manchester and Arlington, Vermont that ascends 3,248 feet over 5.2 miles to the top of Equinox Mountain, offering breathtaking scenic views of the surrounding landscapes. Due to the popularity of Skyline Drive during the fall season, it’s best to plan your visit on weekdays or arrive early in the day in order to avoid some of the crowds!
Credit: Sonam Tshering
Lye Brook Falls
Located less than 10 minutes from Manchester, Lye Brook Falls is a stunning natural attraction that cascades over 125 feet, making it one of the tallest waterfalls in the state. The trail is approximately 4.6 miles round trip and is rated as moderate in difficulty but its picturesque waterfall and colorful foliage are well worth the trip!
Shopping in Manchester Village
Surprisingly there are a ton of shops in Manchester including local boutiques, art galleries, designer outlets, and more. While you can definitely spend a day shopping until you drop, I highly recommend leaving this for last so you can enjoy all of the fall activities!
What I wore to Manchester, Vermont in the fall
I visited with a group of girlfriends for a short weekend back in 2019. Although I didn’t wear everything I brought (Tbh I overpacked severely and stuffed my car to capacity haha. I’ve gotten way better though!) the pieces I wore were perfect for the mild temperatures. I’ve linked everything below plus alternatives for out-of-stock items!
