If it’s ‘hygge’ (a Danish and Norwegian word for coziness and comfort) you’re seeking, head to Vermont. This Northeast state is known for all things cozy: lush fall colors, homey cabins, and delightfully sweet maple syrup. And happily, you can enjoy all of the state’s creature comforts – on a budget – when you visit Manchester. Manchester is an affordable road trip in Vermont where you’ll enjoy the best of the Green Mountain State – on a budget.

Manchester is a charming small town in southern Vermont that has plenty of fun and affordable things to do.
Manchester Roundabout/manchester-vt.gov
The town boasts quaint restaurants, cafes, and small businesses.
Bibliophiles will absolutely love browsing Northshire Bookstore.
Northshire Bookstore/Facebook
This family-run, independent bookstore -- located in a renovated Victorian farmhouse -- has been around since 1976, and is about as charming as it gets. (Browsing is free -- but you may want to set aside a book budget!)
You can also have a total River Runs Through It moment by exploring the American Museum of Fly Fishing.
American Museum of Fly Fishing/Facebook
This Manchester museum celebrates one of Vermont's most treasured sports: fly fishing. Admission to this unique museum is just a few dollars per person.
Vermont is famous for its maple syrup, and you can enjoy freshly-tapped sap atop a short stack at The Little Rooster.
MaryEllen22/TripAdvisor
This brunch spot is a local favorite, with friendly staff and reasonable prices. People come far and wide for the cafe's fluffy pancakes and bacon-topped waffles, both of which make excellent vehicles for the locally sourced maple syrup.
Of course, the best way to experience 'peak Vermont' is outdoors - and many of the state's outdoor attractions are free.
Cameron Modica/AllTrails
Lye Brook Falls is a must-visit attraction (and free!) in Manchester. Spend a day hiking the Lye Brook Falls Trail; you'll be rewarded with breathtaking views of the eponymous 125-foot Lye Brook Falls waterfall -- one of the highest in the state of Vermont.
Another outdoor must is Mount Equinox, southern Vermont's highest peak.
Ariel Szilaqyi/AllTrails
You'll access the mountain via the Skyline Drive, which boasts tons of picnic areas and lookouts along its 5.2-mile climb. Pack a lunch and enjoy the million-dollar views!
Perhaps the most famous landmark in Manchester is Hildene, where the Lincoln family lived.
Hildene, The Lincoln Family Home
Abraham Lincoln's son Robert and his wife, Mary, built this Georgian Revival mansion in 1905.

Related Stories

This Bargain Hunters Road Trip Will Take You To The Best Thrift Stores In Vermont

This Bargain Hunters Road Trip Will Take You To The Best Thrift Stores In Vermont

 See The Best Of Vermont In A Single Day On This Easy and Free Road Trip

See The Best Of Vermont In A Single Day On This Easy and Free Road Trip

 11 Inexpensive Road Trip Destinations In Vermont That Won’t Break The Bank

11 Inexpensive Road Trip Destinations In Vermont That Won’t Break The Bank
The house is located on a 300-foot promontory overlooking Vermont's Battenkill Valley.
David Robinson/iStock via Getty Images Plus
The views are spectacular.
For the price of admission, guests get access to Hildene's expansive grounds, including 12 miles of walking trails.
Hildene, The Lincoln Family Home/Facebook
It's the 'quintessential Vermont' experience.
Hildene also features a variety of affordable, family-friendly activities during the year.
Hildene, The Lincoln Family Home/Facebook
There are kid-friendly walking trails and a goat farm on site.
There's also a fully functional farm, where kids can immerse themselves in nature.
Hildene, The Lincoln Family Home/Facebook
For a small charge, kids can even sign up for farm chores, including feeding Hildene's baby goats!
Manchester is a town with an abundance of natural beauty.
Yellow Dog Productions/The Image Bank via Getty Images
Equinox Garden Center is a favorite place to take it all in, with seasonal events families look forward to year after year.
In the fall, kids can enjoy a hayride and corn maze.
Equinox Valley Nursery and Garden Center/Facebook
Seasonal activities are very budget-friendly, costing just a few dollars. It's a fun and inexpensive way to spend an afternoon in Manchester!
Of course, you can also spend a day strolling through the tree-lined neighborhoods of Manchester.
Robert Ford/iStock via Getty Images Plus
Whatever the season, this cozy Vermont town is always a wonderful place to visit.

Manchester is an inexpensive road trip destination where you can affordably enjoy peak Vermont living. It’s a perfect affordable day trip, offering visitors a delightful little (maple-drizzled) slice of Vermont.

OnlyInYourState may earn compensation through affiliate links in this article. As an Amazon Associate, we earn from qualifying purchases.

Related Articles

Featured Addresses
Manchester, VT 05255, USA