Hey there, and welcome back! (Or if you’re new, I’m happy you stumbled upon my little corner of the internet!) As I’ve mentioned before, my international travel plans are on a temporary pause—this year’s mission is all about exploring my own backyard, and by backyard, I mean the entire United States. You can catch all the details over on 50 at 60, where I’m chasing the ambitious goal of visiting all 50 states during my 60th year, one mile at a time.
But while that adventure’s unfolding, I’ve been popping in here to share some behind-the-scenes planning for what’s next. Spoiler: New England is in my sights! With a little help from AI (and probably a lot of coffee), I’ll be laying out options and ideas for my upcoming travels. Stick around—more updates are on the way!
Manchester, VT
Nestled in the Green Mountains, Manchester, Vermont, is a picturesque town that embodies New England charm with its stunning landscapes, vibrant arts scene, and historic allure. Known for its charming downtown, scenic views, and outdoor activities, Manchester offers a perfect escape for those looking to experience the beauty and tranquility of Vermont. In this blog post, we’ll explore how to make the most of a two-day visit to Manchester, from its historic sites and scenic drives to delightful dining options and local arts. Get ready to immerse yourself in the unique offerings of this delightful Vermont town.
Day 1: Arrival and Evening Exploration
- Arrival and Check-In: Arrive in Manchester by late afternoon and check into a cozy spot like the Equinox Golf Resort & Spa, offering luxurious accommodations with stunning mountain views, or the The Reluctant Panther Inn & Restaurant, known for its elegant setting and personalized service.
- Evening Stroll: After settling in, take a leisurely walk along Main Street, where you can explore a variety of local shops, boutiques, and art galleries. The town’s quaint atmosphere and historic buildings create a charming backdrop for your evening exploration.
- Dinner: Dine at The Silver Fork, a local gem offering a menu of fresh, seasonal ingredients and a warm, welcoming atmosphere. Their farm-to-table dishes are a highlight of the local dining scene.
Day 2: Exploring Manchester
- Breakfast: Start your day with breakfast at The Copper Grouse, known for its hearty Vermont breakfasts and cozy setting. Enjoy their delicious options and get ready for a day of exploration.
- Morning Exploration: Visit the Hildene Estate, the former home of Robert Lincoln, which features beautiful gardens, historic architecture, and scenic views of the surrounding countryside. The estate provides a glimpse into Vermont’s history and offers excellent photo opportunities.
- Lunch: Enjoy a light lunch at The Brown Horse Inn, which offers a variety of sandwiches, salads, and local favorites in a relaxed setting.
- Scenic Drive: Take a scenic drive along Vermont Route 7A, which offers beautiful views of the Green Mountains and picturesque countryside. This route is perfect for capturing the essence of Vermont’s natural beauty.
- Afternoon Activity: Explore the Southern Vermont Arts Center, which showcases local and regional art and offers exhibitions, workshops, and events. The center is a great place to experience the local creative scene.
- Dinner: For dinner, try Ponce Bistro, offering a diverse menu with an emphasis on local ingredients and a relaxed, friendly atmosphere. It’s a great place to enjoy a final meal in Manchester.
Day 3: Morning Farewell
- Breakfast: If time permits, enjoy a final breakfast at The Dorset Union Store, which offers a variety of breakfast options and a charming, rustic atmosphere.
- Morning Stroll: Take one last walk around Manchester or visit a local coffee shop to savor your final moments in this beautiful town.
Bonus: Local Creative to Interview
- Local Entrepreneur: Reach out to Kathy Waugh, an artist based in Manchester known for her unique pottery and ceramics. Her work reflects the natural beauty of Vermont and offers an intriguing perspective on local craftsmanship.
As you wrap up your visit to Manchester, consider taking a scenic drive to explore the nearby Stratton Mountain Resort. Just a short drive away, Stratton offers breathtaking mountain views, outdoor activities, and a chance to immerse yourself in the natural beauty of Vermont. It’s the perfect way to extend your exploration and enjoy a bit more of the Green Mountain State before heading home.
“This post, it’s itineraries, and the accompanying artistic images were crafted with the assistance of AI technology, blending human creativity with artificial intelligence to explore new possibilities in travel and visual storytelling. While these images evoke the essence of their real-world counterparts, they are the result of artistic imagination, designed to transport you to places both familiar and fantastical. For a deeper understanding of our use of AI in creating these elements and its implications, please refer to our comprehensive AI statement linked here.”