How to Spend a Summer Weekend in Southern Vermont

The Best Itinerary For a Summer Weekend Getaway to Southern Vermont

Although the dog days of summer may have peaked, there is still time to seek adventure before the hustle and bustle fall brings. Manchester, Vermont is the perfect New England destination for some well-deserved R & R. You might love it so much that you will return in autumn to witness the most colourful leaves you can imagine.

Friday Night

The best way to get to Manchester is via car. You can find flights and trains into Albany which is roughly a 90-minute drive to the peace and serenity of the Green Mountains. Enjoy a cocktail and dinner at the Copper Grouse before taking an evening stroll around town. You might even stumble upon Ben & Jerry’s for a satisfying dessert!

Saturday Morning

Sleep in and fuel up at Up for Breakfast or Bob’s Diner (a local favourite). Take a drive up to Weston and return to your childhood at The Vermont Country Store. You will feel like a kid in a candy store here––there is something for everyone.

Saturday Afternoon

There is an abundance of hiking trails in the area as well as swimming holes. If you are feeling a hike, check out Equinox Mountain or Lye Brook Falls. Rather chill and relax? The Snowmaking Pond is the ultimate lounging destination to cool off in the summer. Pikes Falls in Jamaica is also recommended by locals. Dogs are welcome!

Saturday Night

Union Underground is a brand new restaurant and bar in town, and it is the place to be on the weekends. Indulge in a quality meal with great company. After all, that is what vacation is all about! Wrap up the evening with a trip to Hathaway’s Drive-In in North Hoosick, New York. Watching a movie under the stars will add an element of romance to your trip.

Sunday Morning

Sleep in (again. You are on vacation. There is no rush)! Hit up Mystic Café and Wine Bar for a farm to table inspired brunch. Rest assured, they do offer avocado toast.

Sunday Afternoon

The Manchester Designer Outlets are a big attraction in Manchester. You will not want to miss some awesome deals at Vineyard Vines, J Crew, Gap, Kate Spade, Polo Ralph Lauren, Eileen Fisher, and more. Be sure to stop into the town’s beloved Northshire Bookstore.

For accommodation, look up listings on Air BnB. The Taconic, Equinox, and Hampton Inn are well-known hotels. If you prefer more of an authentic country setting, there are countless bed and breakfasts to choose from. Bon voyage!

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By Emma Lemay

Emma is a communications major at Marist College who is spending her freshman year in Florence, Italy. She has an in depth passion for hanging out at cozy cafés. When she isn’t attending classes above cobblestone streets, she can be found writing in her journal with a cappuccino, traveling throughout Europe, or binge watching “Gilmore Girls.” To keep up with her European adventures, catch up on her blog. She’d love to hear from you!

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