Experience the Americana Town in Vermont So Charming You’ll Want to Keep It a Secret

You don’t have to travel far into Vermont to come upon an idyllic New England town. The state is full of picturesque storybook villages, overflowing with small-town charm and stunning natural beauty. Areas such as Stowe and Woodstock seem to get the most recognition, and believe me, they are both well worth a visit. But there is a lesser-known place in the mountains that just may become your favorite hidden town in Vermont. If you’ve never visited Manchester, you should definitely take the time to make the trip.

There are lots of Manchesters in New England, so be sure not to get them confused. There is my hometown of Manchester, New Hampshire, scenic Manchester-by-the-Sea in Massachusetts, and also towns named Manchester in Connecticut and Maine. But you will find the prettiest of all of the Manchesters in the state of Vermont. This quaint New England spot has a little something for everyone.

A bit of history

Vermont is full of fascinating early American history, and you can experience some of this when you visit Manchester’s Hildene Mansion, once the summer home of President Lincoln’s son, Robert Todd Lincoln. The impressive house was built in 1905 and sits on 412 acres of land. On a visit here, you can tour the Georgian revival house, walk through the gorgeous formal gardens, and even view a 72-foot restored railcar that dates back over a century. 

Take a scenic hike

There are so many wonderful hikes in the Manchester area, including the stunning Lye Brook Falls Trail. The moderate-to-challenging waterfall hike is roughly 4.5 miles and takes about two to two-and-a-half hours to complete. Those up for the trek will be met with breathtaking views of the 125-foot waterfall, one of the tallest falls in the state.

Play some pinball

One of the most surprising finds in Manchester is a little place that is sure to take you back to a simpler time. The Pastime Pinball attraction is both a working arcade and a museum. The retro experience features 66 pinball machines from every era, including some that date back several decades. The best thing about this Vermont hidden gem is that you just pay the admission fee, and you can play all the games you want for free. What a fun way to spend an afternoon!

A haunted stay

If you decide that you would like to stay overnight in town, there are several options to choose from. The historic Equinox resort is my number one pick. The hotel offers guests a luxurious stay, but beware, some say that the spirit of former First Lady, Mary Todd Lincoln, haunts the building. If you don't want to tempt the fates, the local Reluctant Panther Inn and Restaurant is also a wonderful choice.

What is your favorite place to visit in Manchester, Vermont? You can find out more about this picturesque part of New England on the Middlesex County Chamber of Commerce website and the Middlesex County Chamber of Commerce Facebook page. Be sure to use our customized Only In Your State itinerary planner to make the most of your Vermont getaway.