10 Fun Things To Do Near Manchester Center, Vermont (Bennington County Travel Guide)
If you’re dreaming about a classic New England getaway,
Manchester Center, Vermont is a great place to start. This small town in
Bennington County feels cozy and friendly, but there’s a surprising amount to do nearby—whether you love the outdoors, shopping, history, or just good food.
Below are
10 things to do in and around Manchester Center that make it worth the trip, especially if you’re visiting from elsewhere in the USA and want that “pure Vermont” experience.
1. Stroll, Shop, and Snack in Downtown Manchester Center
Downtown Manchester Center might be small, but it’s full of character. You can easily spend a relaxed morning or afternoon just walking around.
- Pop into local boutiques and outlet shops.
- Grab a coffee from a café and people-watch on a bench.
- Browse art, jewelry, and Vermont-made gifts.
One of the things I love about downtown here is how
walkable it is. You can park once and explore on foot. The mix of
local shops, outlets, and small eateries makes it easy to wander without a plan.
Looking for Vermont souvenirs? You’ll find plenty of maple syrup, cozy flannels, and handmade pottery to bring home.
2. Explore Hildene – The Lincoln Family Home
Just a short drive from Manchester Center sits
Hildene, the historic home of Robert Todd Lincoln, Abraham Lincoln’s only surviving son. Even if you’re not a big history buff, this place is worth a visit.
At Hildene, you can:
- Tour the elegant house and learn about the Lincoln family.
- Walk the formal gardens with mountain views that feel straight out of a postcard.
- Visit the working farm area and say hello to the goats.
- Explore walking trails spread across the property.
The views from the back lawn are stunning—rolling hills and the Green Mountains in the distance. It’s the kind of spot where you suddenly understand why people fall in love with Vermont.
3. Hike or Drive Up Mount Equinox
If you’re into scenic views,
Mount Equinox is a must. It’s one of the standout outdoor attractions near Manchester Center.
You have two main options:
- Equinox Skyline Drive: In season, there’s a toll road that winds up the mountain. The drive is about 5 miles to the summit and the views are incredible. On a clear day, you can see for miles across Vermont and into neighboring states.
- Hiking trails: If you’d rather get a workout, there are trails that lead up the mountain through the woods. Expect some steady uphill climbing.
Pack a jacket—weather at the top can feel cooler and windier, even in summer. And don’t forget your camera; the sunset and fall foliage views are unforgettable.
4. Visit the Southern Vermont Arts Center
Just minutes from Manchester Center, the
Southern Vermont Arts Center (SVAC) is tucked into a beautiful, wooded property with sweeping views.
Here you can:
- Browse galleries filled with regional and national art.
- Walk the grounds and sculpture garden.
- Catch live performances or events if they line up with your visit.
Even if you’re not “art museum” people, this place feels welcoming. The buildings are historic and charming, and the drive up the long, tree-lined road makes you feel like you’re arriving somewhere special.
5. Browse Northshire Bookstore – A Local Favorite
If you love books, you cannot skip
Northshire Bookstore in Manchester Center. It’s a cozy, independent bookstore that locals and visitors both adore.
Inside, you’ll find:
- Two floors of books for all ages and interests.
- Staff picks and handwritten notes with honest recommendations.
- Gifts, games, and Vermont-themed items.
It’s the kind of place where you plan to “just look around” and end up spending an hour wandering the aisles. On a rainy or snowy day, it’s the perfect warm, bookish escape.
6. Ski, Ride, or Hike at Bromley Mountain and Stratton Mountain
Manchester Center makes a great base for exploring
Southern Vermont’s ski areas. Two of the closest big mountains are:
- Bromley Mountain: About 15–20 minutes away. In winter, it’s a family-friendly ski area with a laid-back vibe. In summer, Bromley turns into an adventure park with an alpine slide, zip line, and outdoor fun.
- Stratton Mountain: About 30–35 minutes away. More of a full resort feel, with skiing, snowboarding, shops, and dining. In the warmer months, Stratton is popular for hiking and mountain biking.
If you’re visiting from out of state and want the classic
Vermont ski trip, Manchester Center gives you easy access to the slopes plus a town full of good food and cozy inns.
7. Walk the Manchester Riverwalk and Local Trails
You don’t need to climb a mountain to enjoy the outdoors here. Near Manchester Center, you’ll find gentler
walking paths and river trails that are great for all ages.
Look for:
- Short riverside walks where you can hear the water and spot small waterfalls.
- Easy wooded trails that are dog-friendly.
- Peaceful picnic spots tucked along the way.
If you’re traveling with kids or someone who doesn’t want a steep hike, these low-key trails are a nice way to breathe in some Vermont fresh air without a big effort.
8. Discover Local History at the American Museum of Fly Fishing
Even if you don’t fish, the
American Museum of Fly Fishing in Manchester is surprisingly interesting. It’s a small museum, but very well done.
Inside, you’ll see:
- Historic rods, reels, and gear going back generations.
- Artwork and photos that show how fly fishing has changed over time.
- Stories about famous anglers and the rivers they loved.
If you do enjoy fly fishing, this place is a gem. And if you’re new to it, the museum gives you a window into why so many people find standing in a cold river with a fly rod so peaceful and addictive.
9. Take a Scenic Drive Through Bennington County
Part of the charm of
Manchester Center and Bennington County is simply getting in the car and exploring.
Consider:
- Driving south toward the town of Bennington to see the Bennington Battle Monument and classic old churches.
- Wandering country roads lined with farms, red barns, and mountain backdrops.
- Stopping at roadside farm stands for fresh apples, maple syrup, or homemade pies (especially in fall).
In autumn, the foliage around Manchester and through Bennington County is hard to beat. The hills light up in red, orange, and gold, and every turn feels like a new photo opportunity.
10. Eat Your Way Through Manchester – Local Food & Vermont Flavors
No visit to Manchester Center is complete without enjoying some
Vermont comfort food. The town and nearby area offer a nice mix of casual and more upscale options.
Keep an eye out for:
- Maple everything: Maple creemees (soft-serve), maple donuts, maple-glazed meats, and of course pure maple syrup.
- Farm-to-table restaurants: Places using local cheese, vegetables, and meats.
- Cozy pubs and cafés: Perfect after a day of skiing, hiking, or shopping.
If you like to sample local beer or cider, look for Vermont-made options on tap. Many spots proudly feature regional brews and hard ciders that pair well with hearty, cold-weather dishes.
Planning Your Trip to Manchester Center, Vermont
A few quick tips if you’re visiting from elsewhere in the USA:
- Best time to visit: Fall for foliage, winter for skiing, summer for hiking and outdoor fun, spring for quieter, budget-friendly trips.
- Getting around: You’ll want a car. Many of the best things to do near Manchester Center are a short drive away.
- Where to stay: The area is full of inns, lodges, and small hotels with that classic New England charm.
Manchester Center makes a great long-weekend destination, but you can easily stretch it into a full week if you add in day trips around
Bennington County and southern Vermont.
What Would You Do First Near Manchester Center?
Have you been to
Manchester Center, Vermont or anywhere else in
Bennington County?
- Which of these 10 things would you put at the top of your list?
- Do you have a favorite local restaurant, trail, or hidden gem I didn’t mention?
Share your thoughts in the comments—your tips can help other travelers plan their own Vermont getaway.
If you found this guide helpful, please
share it with a friend or on social media who might be planning a trip to Vermont. The more we swap ideas and experiences, the better our travels get.
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