If this place looks magical now, just wait until September 26th when these stunning 412 acres transform into the setting for one of Vermont's most authentic harvest celebrations. Hildene’s Autumn Harvest Festival isn't just another fall event - it's what happens when 200 neighbors gather at golden hour for the kind of dinner party that could only happen in the Green Mountains.

The Vision Behind the Gathering

"We want people to experience the real Hildene," explains Christine Furman as she walks us through the festival setup. This isn't the mansion tour that many visitors know. Down here in the dene - the Old English word for "valley with stream" that partially gives Hildene its name - the Lincoln legacy lives on through working agriculture, conservation efforts, and genuine community connection.

The Lincoln connection to Manchester runs deep - Robert Todd Lincoln, Abraham's only surviving son, first visited this area as a young man and was so taken with Vermont's beauty that he eventually purchased 412 acres to build what he envisioned as his family's ancestral home. Today, that same spirit of gathering and renewal infuses every aspect of Hildene’s Autumn Harvest Festival.

Behind the Scenes: Planning Vermont's Perfect Evening

Following Christine's practiced route from the stone wall entrance to the greenhouse, you can almost see the September evening unfolding. Guests will park inside the historic stone wall - the same boundary Robert Lincoln established - then walk or take the farm tram over to check in at the schoolhouse, where they'll receive their drink tickets and get their bearings.

The festival entrance flows naturally through the greenhouse, where welcome banners will guide visitors into the heart of the celebration. The festival previously ran as a donor appreciation event, but this marks its debut as a ticketed community celebration, capped at 200 people to maintain that dinner party intimacy.

The timing couldn't be more perfect: 4 PM to 7 PM, with dusk settling around 6:40 PM - creating an evening where late-afternoon sunshine gives way to golden hour magic as you dine surrounded by some of Vermont's most stunning mountain valley views.

Step through the greenhouse and you'll discover a harvest extravaganza.  Ann, one of Hildene's talented master gardeners, creates massive displays of vegetables pulled fresh from these very plants - including curiosities like cucumber melons that taste exactly as their name suggests, with a hint of lemon sweetness that stops first-time tasters in their tracks. A must try!

Don’t sleep on the Apple Pie Contest! Eight local bakers have already signed up, with local judge John Burnham from the Manchester Business Association among the lucky panel. Each baker brings two pies - one for judging, one for serving - and Pangea's Grill (who handles all the delectable catering) will slice and serve the samples once the competition concludes.

Twisted Horn Brewery (connected with Glebe Mountain nursery) is providing the beer, so be sure to be ready for a frosty pint or two!

More Than a Festival: A Conservation Story

What elevates this beyond typical harvest celebration is Hildene's serious conservation work. The Randall Cattle grazing these nearby pastures represent an endangered breed with fewer than 1,000 individuals worldwide. Their sole purpose here? Increasing herd numbers to preserve genetic diversity. Plans are underway to add up to 20 more cattle, making Hildene a significant player in saving this historic New England breed.

It's the kind of behind-the-scenes mission that gives weight to every aspect of your visit. You're not just attending a festival - you're supporting conservation, education, and the preservation of Robert Lincoln's vision for this land.

The Music, The Moment, The Magic

As afternoon gives way to evening, lively bluegrass music will set up along the fence line, creating the perfect soundtrack for flower picking, cornhole games, and those inevitable photo ops with farm animals who've learned that festivals mean extra attention.

The silent auction runs throughout the evening and continues from September 19th through October 5th, featuring experiences you can't book anywhere else: private tours, garden consultations with Hildene's own experts, sensational photo sessions on the property to capture memories you simply can't create elsewhere, and much more!

Your Practical Guide to September Magic

Tickets sell online only through September 12th - no last-minute purchases at the gate. Adult tickets include food, activities, and one drink ticket, with additional drinks available for purchase. The festival runs rain or shine.

The 200-person cap means intimate rather than overwhelming, community-focused rather than glitz and glam. You're more likely to chat with the gardener who grew your dinner vegetables than stand in line behind strangers.

In our drone footage, Hildene's farm appears as a green oasis between mountain ridges, a working landscape that's remained largely unchanged since Robert Lincoln's time. By September 26th, those same fields will host harvest bounty at peak season, autumn light that photographers dream about, and the kind of genuine community gathering that makes you remember why you love Vermont.

The best dinner parties happen when great ingredients, good people, and perfect timing converge. Mark September 26th on your calendars - Hildene is about to prove that Vermont does harvest season better than anywhere else.

Hildene's Autumn Harvest Festival
Friday, September 26, 2025, 4-7 PM
Tickets available online through September 12th
1005 Hildene Road, Manchester, Vermont
Learn more and purchase tickets at hildene.org

The post When Hildene's Farm Becomes Vermont's Best Harvest Party appeared first on Vermont.com.

Picture your perfect summer getaway: friends gathered around a fire pit after a day of tennis, families lounging by a heated saltwater pool while kids explore acres of manicured grounds, and groups spreading out across historic cottages that feel like your own private estate. This isn't a fantasy - it's exactly what happens when guests discover the Inns of Dorset, where "Vermont's own small resort" delivers that magical grown-up summer camp experience to the entire family.

Just six miles from Manchester's bustling outlets and restaurants, Dorset offers something distinctly different: an authentic Vermont village where marble sidewalks lead to white clapboard buildings, and hospitality feels genuinely personal. "People come here and say, I feel like I've just stepped into something special," says Renee Wymer, who helps manage the collection of distinctive properties. Here, multiple properties for every type of guest and group, create the perfect base camp for your Southern Vermont adventure.

The Art of Matching Guests to Their Perfect Stay

The beauty of the Inns of Dorset lies in their ability to accommodate any group configuration imaginable. Whether you're planning a multigenerational family reunion, a girls' getaway, or a romantic escape, the staff excels at matching guests with their ideal accommodations across four distinct property types.

For the Classic Vermont Experience: The Dorset Inn stands as Vermont's longest continuously operating inn, offering elegantly appointed guest rooms in a building that has welcomed travelers since 1796. The rooms feature period charm with modern amenities, and the inn's prime position directly across from both the Dorset Union Store and the charming Dorset Library (complete with resident pugs) puts you at the absolute heart of village life. Step out your front door and you're instantly immersed in Dorset's walkable charm.

For the Resort Experience: Barrows House sprawls across six acres as a true small resort with a delightful story to tell. Originally built in 1804 as the pastor's house of the nearby Stone Church on the Green, today it houses 27 guest rooms and suites scattered across eight enchanting buildings. The main inn holds eight upstairs rooms, while the remaining accommodations occupy wonderfully converted outbuildings that spark the imagination - stay in the former blacksmith's cottage where iron was once forged, the elegant stables that now house luxury suites with soaring ceilings, or the whimsical former chicken coop transformed into a cozy retreat. Each space tells its own story while providing authentic historic character seamlessly balanced with modern amenities like air conditioning, fireplaces, and spa-quality bathrooms.

For Group Getaways: The 1880 House offers whole-house rental accommodations perfect for larger groups, sleeping up to 14 guests in a stunningly restored historic farmhouse setting with multiple bedrooms and common areas for gathering.

For Varied Group Needs: The Guest Houses collection offer an impressive range of options located throughout the village. Church Street Cottage features three bedrooms including a King Master Suite, plus a screened porch and fully equipped kitchen for those wanting a home-away-from-home feel. For truly spectacular gatherings, Seven Springs House sits on 70 private acres with five bedrooms, multiple living areas, floor-to-ceiling windows showcasing mountain views, and an optional barn that can accommodate four additional guests - making it ideal for family reunions or special celebrations.

Accommodations That Actually Make Sense

Here's where the Inns of Dorset truly shine: their room configurations work for real groups, not just the standard hotel setup.

Planning a girls' getaway weekend? The lower level of Bluejay cottage at Barrows House offers three king rooms, each with its own ensuite bath, plus a common living room where you can gather for morning coffee, afternoon wine, and late-night conversations. The wood-burning fireplace (complete with kindling and firewood service) creates the perfect backdrop for reconnecting with friends.

Traveling with family? Properties like Cardinal Retreat include separate spaces with fold-out sofas - perfect for kids while giving parents their own retreat. Multiple cottages offer exactly what multigenerational families need: private rooms for everyone with shared common areas that feel like your own vacation house.

For couples traveling together, several buildings provide the ideal setup: individual suites with shared outdoor spaces, pool access, and tennis courts just steps away - creating the perfect setting for a romantic weekend away where you can enjoy both privacy and resort-style amenities.

The Adult Summer Camp Experience

What transforms these accommodations into something special is how they create that grown-up summer camp atmosphere. At Barrows House, the heated saltwater pool becomes the social hub, surrounded by tennis and pickleball courts where guests challenge each other to friendly matches, then cool off with poolside snacks. A convenient cabana features classic summer fare like ice cream sandwiches and cold drinks, plus you can order lunch from the amazing Dorset Bakery menu and they'll pick it up for you.

The pool house offers the perfect spot to grab refreshments between activities, while the courts provide endless entertainment. Tennis and pickleball equipment is provided for all Inns of Dorset guests, making it easy to start an impromptu game.

Common spaces throughout the properties invite gathering - lending libraries stocked with books and games, cozy living rooms with fireplaces for evening conversations, and outdoor terraces perfect for morning coffee or sunset cocktails.

Your Dorset Base Camp for Adventure

All properties share a remarkable breakfast experience - full sit-down service where you order off the menu rather than face a typical hotel buffet. It's served each morning at either The Dorset Inn or Dorset Bakery, bringing together guests from across the collection to start their day properly fueled.

From any of the properties, you're perfectly positioned to explore some of Southern Vermont's best hiking. The Gettysburg Quarry Hike offers a nearly half-mile trek with 800 feet of elevation change, perfect for intermediate hikers seeking spectacular quarry views. For something easier, the Lower Prince Quarry takes just 30 minutes along mostly flat terrain to reach a peaceful viewpoint. Adventure seekers should tackle Gilbert Lookout - 1.6 miles with over 1,200 feet of elevation gain leading to views of the Adirondack Mountains.

For gentler pursuits, the 35-acre Pinnacle Forest provides perfect family-friendly walking, while Cutler Memorial Forest features quaint walking trails and a charming bridge crossing the Mettawee River - you can explore the entire property in about 45 minutes.

The village itself rewards exploration. H.N. Williams General Store might look like a simple gas station but plan at least an hour (or more!) to wander through the rambling space where you can buy everything from maple syrup and cozy sweaters to tractor parts and horse feed - plus they make some out-of-this-world lunches! The Dorset Union Store also offers excellent sandwiches and local products, while the village green provides the perfect spot for picnics or simply soaking in that quintessential Vermont atmosphere.

The Walkable Village Advantage

You'll immediately recognize how walkable and welcoming Dorset truly is. From your inn, you can stroll marble sidewalks to the village green, pop into the library or art gallery, catch a show at the renowned Dorset Theatre Festival (read more about that here), or simply wander the streets admiring the white clapboard architecture that defines authentic Vermont.

This accessibility means you can truly relax - park your car upon arrival and explore everything on foot. The village rewards this slower pace with unexpected discoveries: hidden gardens, historic markers, and those perfect photo opportunities that capture why people fall in love with Vermont.

Planning Your Dorset Escape

Each property offers something different, but all deliver that elevated summer camp feeling that makes Dorset special. Whether you're drawn to The Dorset Inn's historic charm, Barrows House's resort amenities, the 1880 House's group-friendly setup, or the intimacy of the guest houses, you're choosing more than accommodation - you're choosing a temporary membership in one of Vermont's most authentic communities.

Reserve ahead for late summer and early fall - this is prime time in Vermont, when weather is perfect for outdoor activities and fall foliage begins to really show off. Call directly to discuss your group's needs; the personal service starts with that first conversation about finding your perfect match.

Ready to experience Vermont's own small resort? Visit Inns of Dorset to explore all four properties and find your perfect Dorset escape.

This lodging guide is brought to you in partnership with the Manchester Business Association, connecting you with the businesses and experiences that make Manchester, Vermont, a premier adventure destination.

The post Dorset's Own Small Resort: The Inns of Dorset's Grown-Up Summer Camp Experience appeared first on Vermont.com.

The Strategic Advantage

Mount Ascutney Resort sits in that sweet spot every traveler dreams about - close enough to everything, far enough from the crowds. From your villa's front door, you're 15 minutes from Simon Pearce's glassblowing workshop, 20 minutes from Woodstock's village green, and practically next door to Mount Ascutney State Park's hiking trails. But here's what really sets this location apart: when you return from a day of gorge-gazing at Quechee or brewery-hopping at Harpoon, you're not cramming into a standard hotel room. You're coming home to 970-1,600 square feet of villa space with a full kitchen, separate bedrooms, and a living room where everyone can actually spread out.

The resort's position in the Connecticut River Valley creates natural day-trip loops. Head south to explore the covered bridges and artisan shops, swing west to tackle mountain adventures, or venture north for brewery tours and scenic drives. Each evening, you return to the same comfortable base - no packing, no check-outs, no wondering where you'll rest your head next.

Adventures That Start at Your Doorstep

Mount Ascutney State Park delivers on Vermont's outdoor promises without requiring a long drive. The 3,144-foot summit trail rewards hikers with views stretching across three states, while the lower trails offer gentler family-friendly options. What makes having the resort as your base so valuable? You can tackle the challenging summit hike knowing you'll return to your villa's full kitchen to refuel properly, not survive on vending machine snacks.

The resort's proximity to the Connecticut River opens up water adventures most mountain lodging can't offer. Kayaking, fishing, and seasonal whitewater rafting become easy additions to your itinerary when you're not spending hours driving between activities and accommodations.

The Quechee and Woodstock Circuit

Twenty minutes from Mount Ascutney Resort, you'll find that Quechee Gorge earns its "Vermont's Grand Canyon" nickname with a 165-foot drop that stops conversations mid-sentence. The bridge viewpoint captures the classic photo, but the trail to the bottom - and yes, back up - provides the real adventure. After working up an appetite on the gorge trails, Simon Pearce restaurant and glassblowing workshop in nearby Quechee village combine Vermont dining with artisan craft demonstrations.

Woodstock, the postcard-perfect Vermont village, sits close enough for easy afternoon explorations. The village green surrounded by historic homes, covered bridge photo opportunities, and Billings Farm & Museum's hands-on agricultural experiences, will fill an entire day. But returning to Mount Ascutney Resort means your kids can process the day's adventures in their own space while adults enjoy wine on the villa's deck, planning tomorrow's discoveries.

Local Flavor Adventures

The resort's connection to Vermont's food and beverage scene runs deeper than just location. The Maple Kitchen restaurant sources ingredients from local growers and partners with regional distillers, serving dishes like maple candied bacon and cider glazed Maplewood smoked ribs. Open Thursday through Monday from 5-9pm, it provides the perfect wind-down dinner after vigorous adventure-filled days.

The Return-Home Advantage

What really distinguishes Mount Ascutney Resort as an adventure basecamp becomes clear in the evenings. While other accommodations offer a standard bed and bathroom, you return to villa amenities that enhance rather than detract from your Vermont experience. The full kitchen lets you prep trail snacks and store local cheese purchases properly. The separate living areas mean different family members can decompress in their preferred ways - teens in the game room, adults around the fire pit, younger kids at the 7pm movie showing with free popcorn.

The resort's unique amenities create their own mini-adventures. The cinema-style movie theater with daily showings becomes the perfect rainy-day backup plan or evening wind-down activity. The outdoor fire pit area, surrounded by Adirondack chairs with Mount Ascutney views, provides the quintessential Vermont evening experience without leaving the property. Also, don't miss out on the game room with billiards, darts, and foosball tables to further amp up the family competitions.

Practical Basecamp Benefits

The villa setup also solves practical adventure challenges that standard hotels can't address. Hiking boots dry properly in the mudroom areas. Adventure gear spreads out in living rooms without creating chaos. The washer and dryer in each building means you can refresh clothing mid-trip rather than over-packing. Full kitchens allow for proper pre-hike breakfasts and post-adventure refueling.

The Vermont You Actually Want

Mount Ascutney Resort delivers on Vermont vacation promises that other accommodations struggle to match. You get authentic local connections through The Maple Kitchen's regional sourcing and proximity to working farms and artisan workshops. You experience genuine outdoor adventures with Mount Ascutney State Park and Connecticut River activities literally at your doorstep. And you enjoy comfortable, spacious accommodations that enhance rather than limit your vacation experience.

The Connecticut River Valley location puts you in Vermont's heart without tourist-trap crowds. Brownsville maintains authentic small-town character while providing easy access to the region's marquee attractions.

Ready to establish your Connecticut River Valley basecamp? Mount Ascutney Resort offers summer promotions including 20% savings and daily resort credits for Thursday-Sunday arrivals. Your Vermont getways are waiting - and they all start with those villa keys that unlock both comfort and adventure.

For reservations and current availability at Holiday Inn Club Vacations Mount Ascutney Resort, visit their website or call directly to discuss villa options and local adventure planning.

The post Spacious Villas, Local Flavors, and Fire Pit Stories at Mount Ascutney Resort appeared first on Vermont.com.

From Cornfield Vision to Creative Revolution

Stacy moved to Vermont from flat Illinois cornfields with a mission that sounds almost impossible: create "unrelenting beauty everywhere." When she emails herself project goals, that's literally what she writes - unrelenting beauty everywhere. It's the kind of artistic manifesto that could mistakenly sound pretentious, except when you experience what she's built, you understand she means it authentically and completely.

After selling her paintings on Facebook gained traction in 2016, she found this 1800s barn through a simple Google search and opened The Sparkle Barn six months later. The retail space came first - a curated collection that reflects her unique artistic eye. "I want it to be fun, colorful, surprising, humorous," she explains about her merchandising philosophy. "Everything has to tickle my funny bone or make me happy."

But the real transformation happened when that Christmas decal damaged her upstairs wall.

A Barn That's Already Magical Before You Discover the Secret Upstairs

Step through stained glass windows from an 1880 French bakery and you're immediately inside a retail space that would be impressive on its own merits. This converted 1800s barn creates an atmosphere of cozy exploration - exposed beams overhead, thoughtfully lit displays, and that indefinable sense of discovery that only comes from spaces with genuine history and character.

The barn's natural architecture provides the perfect canvas for Stacy's vision. Themed rooms flow organically - a "crow room" installation filled with crystals and mystical treasures, woodland creature sections, aquatic displays, and carefully curated collections that feel more like gallery exhibitions than traditional retail. Even without what's upstairs, this would rank among Vermont's most engaging shops.

But then, you notice the stairs to your left.

The Bloom Room: Where Walking Into Art Redefines Experience

Climb those stairs and prepare for sensory transformation. The Bloom Room hits you like stepping into a living dream - visitors regularly pause at the top of the stairs, mouths slightly open, absorbing what their eyes can't quite process. Multiple groups emerge with the same reaction: "Whoa. This is something special."

This is immersive in ways photographs can't capture. Breathing flower sculptures pulse with hidden motors. Massive crepe paper chandeliers - installed using engine jacks and pulley systems - frame intimate seating areas draped in fabric that creates an all-encompassing embrace. The space simultaneously overwhelms and calms, like forest bathing but with a side of retail therapy.

What makes Stacy's vision so extraordinary is how she balances sensory abundance with deep tranquility. "I want to make it as beautiful as possible to wow myself," she explains, "because I want to have fun." This isn't art for art's sake - it's designed specifically to transform how you feel. One guest book entry captured it perfectly: "I'm a 93-year-old child who finally found her wonderland."

The space and concept draw inspiration from Meow Wolf's immersive installations, but Stacy has created something uniquely Vermont - intimate, handcrafted, and focused on joy rather than spectacle. Every detail serves the mission of transformation, from the 35 historical stained glass windows, each representing a different artist's vision, to the carefully positioned seating that invites lingering.

Here's what sets this apart from any other attraction: you don't observe the art, you inhabit it.

The "Accidental" Retail Revolution

The downstairs barn space showcases why Stacy's artistic sensibility transforms everything she touches. This isn't your standard gift shop filled with generic tourist items - it's a carefully orchestrated shopping experience that would be destination-worthy even without the upstairs installation.

The historic barn's natural charm provides the foundation: original exposed beams, generous spaces that invite browsing, and that sense of stepping into Vermont's authentic past. But Stacy's curation elevates it into something unprecedented. Every piece gets selected through her artistic filter - everything must be "fun, colorful, surprising, humorous, and beautiful."

Dig deeper and you'll find fair trade companies in Colombia employing women with disabilities, Thai artisans representing 20 master metalsmiths and two villages, and hand-illustrated cards from England that showcase craftsmanship you can't find anywhere else.

Amy, Stacy's partner in retail magic, handles merchandising with an artist's touch, creating what feels like "an art installation of its own," as Stacy puts it.

Beyond Shopping: A Community Gathering Space

The Sparkle Barn has evolved into something unprecedented - a retail space that's also a community hub. Their monthly "Singo" musical bingo events sell out immediately, packing 40 to 45 people upstairs for sing-along bingo. Their recent 8th anniversary party drew 500 to 600 attendees, complete with cake and celebrations that spilled throughout the property.

Events range from sound baths with crystal bowls to comedy shows, from short plays to educational "Sparkle Shorts" on topics like biomimicry. The space hosted everything from improv to bands before COVID, and they're ramping back up with carefully curated experiences that match the magical atmosphere.

The Magical Garden: Where Dragons Meet Unicorns

Before venturing inside, explore the front property's Magical Garden - an outdoor wonderland featuring the star attractions that helped start this whole journey. When families began showing up after COVID with their children dressed in their "sparkliest outfits," Stacy realized she wanted to offer more than just retail. "I want to give them more than just a store," she decided.

The garden features life-sized dragons and unicorns that create Instagram moments and spark pure childhood joy. But there's substance behind the whimsy - a thoughtfully designed space where "what brings happiness to kids" guided every decision. Dragons, unicorns, mermaids - Stacy tapped into timeless sources of wonder and made them tangible.

The Dragon Story Walk winds through this magical landscape, featuring a collaborative tale written by four people (including a Dungeons & Dragons master). Follow the path with blow-up dragons marking each chapter, reading along or listening to the audio tour. The journey culminates in a discovery box and honorary membership cards for the "Land of Sparkle Dragons" - interactive storytelling that extends the indoor magic into Vermont's natural beauty.

What to Expect When You Visit

The Sparkle Barn operates year-round except Tuesdays, with each season bringing fresh energy and new discoveries. Summer has been particularly buzzing since Yankee Magazine featured the Bloom Room as editor's choice for top 10 things to do in Vermont this summer with a full-page spread.

Pro tip: children often arrive in their "sparkliest outfits," so encourage kids to dress the part. The space welcomes families but appeals equally to adults seeking beauty and wonder. "We have a lot of people say it's calming," Stacy notes. "We have a lot of people who come up here, they don't buy anything and I'm fine with that. For it to be people's happy place to get away from this mad world - it makes me feel good."

The Future of Whimsical

Stacy's not stopping with the barn. She's 70% complete on converting a 26-foot moving van into a "bloom room party truck" featuring custom restaurant booths and, naturally, unrelenting beauty everywhere. The bright pink wrapped truck will serve as a mobile version of the experience, potentially for weddings, events, or simply spreading joy throughout Vermont.

Even bigger dreams include expanding bloom rooms to children's hospitals and creating festival spaces on their 17-acre property. When asked about her ultimate goal, Stacy lights up: "I really want to figure out a way to take bloom rooms to children's hospitals or places where people need uplifting." We have absolutely no doubt that she will succeed in this pursuit - the vision extends beyond retail into community healing and joy creation.

Planning Your Visit

Location: 1509 US Route 7 South Wallingford, VT (~20 minutes north of Manchester)
Hours: Year-round except Tuesdays - call for exact hours.
What to bring: Sense of wonder, camera for magical photos, patience for browsing unique treasures
Best for: Families, art lovers, couples, individuals, anyone seeking Instagram-worthy experiences, rainy day activities.

The Sparkle Barn proves that the most magical experiences often begin accidentally - with damaged paint, creative solutions, and an artist's willingness to follow inspiration wherever it leads. In a world of corporate retail and manufactured experiences, this feels authentically transformative.

Reserve time for both levels, bring your sense of play, and prepare to see retail reimagined as art installation. Just don't blame us when you start planning your return visit before you've even left.

Visit The Sparkle Barn and discover why visitors travel hours for this one-of-a-kind experience.

The post This Artist Transformed an 1800s Barn into one of Vermont's Most Magical Shopping Destinations appeared first on Vermont.com.

The jewelry catches your eye first. Sharon Herman's handcrafted silver pieces glint under the warm lighting at Aunt Bonnie's, drawing both locals and tourists deeper into what might be Manchester's most unexpectedly essential stop. What starts as casual browsing for an artisan bracelet often turns into something entirely different - a conversation about sleep, stress, or that anxious dog waiting back at the hotel or rental.

Located in the heart of Main Street, Aunt Bonnie's has quietly become the place where Manchester visitors and locals find solutions to wellness concerns that might have slipped past their own radar, all without the potential intimidation factor of a traditional dispensary. This isn't about getting high at all - it's about getting help.

The Approachable Alternative

"People might just be coming in to browse the shops," explains owner Vallis Goodermote, "and then they see CBD, and they're curious about it. They can get educated in a warm, welcoming environment versus feeling like they're doing something wrong."

The difference is immediately apparent. Rather than the clinical feel of a pharmacy or the uncertainty of a dispensary, Aunt Bonnie's feels like what it is: a health and beauty boutique where wellness can happen to include cannabinoids. The shelves blend skincare, aromatherapy, and jewelry with CBD products, creating an environment where curiosity trumps hesitation.

Goodermote's journey to natural wellness began with a personal wake-up call. "Years ago I had a reaction to a fragranced laundry product - and ever since, synthetic scents and chemical-laden skincare have continued to cause issues," she explains. That moment sparked a deep dive into everyday household items - laundry detergent, dryer sheets, plug-in air fresheners, candles. "It was an eye-opening discovery finding that many products contain synthetic chemicals that can be irritating, hormone-disrupting, or harmful to our long-term health."

This personal experience, combined with becoming more ingredient-conscious during pregnancy, shaped the store's philosophy: prioritizing natural ingredients that are mostly plant-based and scented with pure essential oils, while avoiding phthalates, parabens, and synthetic fragrances.

For travelers, particularly, this matters. Many visitors might never venture into a dispensary, but they'll absolutely wander into a boutique that feels more like a thoughtful gift shop than a medical facility.

Solutions for Real Travel Problems

The 2 AM Wake-Up Call Here's what Aunt Bonnie's customers know: CBD isn't just about falling asleep - it's about staying asleep. "People will take a CBD gummy to help them stay asleep at nighttime," Goodermote notes. "There are people who wake up 2 a.m., 4 a.m. They wake up two, three times a night."

For travelers dealing with new beds, different time zones, or just the general disruption of being away from home, this becomes invaluable. The store's sleep-focused CBD gummies have become a go-to for visitors who want to actually rest during their Manchester getaway.

The Vacation Dog Dilemma Then there's the challenge every pet owner faces: keeping dogs calm during travel. Aunt Bonnie's pet CBD chews address the specific anxiety triggers that come with vacation - car rides, new environments, being left in hotel rooms or Airbnbs. "The calming CBD helps keep your dog calm while they're on vacation," Goodermote explains. "It helps them be calm and relaxed without sedating them."

This isn't about knocking out an anxious pet; it's about taking the edge off so both dog and owner can actually enjoy the trip.

Post-Adventure Recovery Manchester's hiking trails are irresistible, but they're also demanding. Visitors regularly come into Aunt Bonnie's after tackling Lye Brook Falls or attempting Mount Equinox with aching backs and sore muscles. The CBD pain stick offers a natural alternative to traditional pain relief, helping active travelers recover so they can make the most of their remaining vacation days.

The Education Factor

What sets Aunt Bonnie's apart is the emphasis on education over sales. Goodermote, who discovered CBD during the pandemic as a stressed mom of two teenage boys, understands the confusion surrounding the product. "When we started, it was like, 'Oh, I don't want to get high,'" she recalls. "Now people are learning about milligrams and cannabinoids, but there is still some confusion."

The store provides guidance on dosing based on weight and individual needs, explains the difference between CBD and marijuana, and offers completely THC-free options. It's the kind of personalized education that online shopping can't provide.

Where Heritage Meets Innovation

One thing not to sleep on is the jewelry selection. The jewelry isn't just decoration - it's part of the story. Sharon Herrmann, who's been crafting jewelry for 40 years, represents the local artisan tradition, while the Ed Levin Studios pieces connect to 70 years of Vermont jewelry-making history, starting in Bennington's Hawkins House.

This blend of established craft and modern wellness creates something unique on Main Street. Visitors can leave with a handcrafted bracelet and a natural sleep aid, supporting both traditional Vermont artisans and innovative wellness solutions.

The Practical Details

What to Try:

• CBD gummies for sleep support (especially for restless hotel nights)
• Pet CBD chews for travel anxiety
• CBD pain stick for post-hike recovery
• Natural skincare products featuring tallow and calendula

Price Range: Jewelry starts at $18 and goes up to over $1000, CBD products typically around $50, skincare from $20-$80

The Approach: Come in curious, leave educated. The staff prioritizes helping customers understand what they're buying rather than pushing products.

Local Integration: The store features regional makers and small, often female-owned companies, maintaining that Vermont connection to natural, handcrafted quality.

Making the Most of Your Visit

Aunt Bonnie's works best when you have time to browse and ask questions. The staff can explain dosing, discuss specific needs, and help you understand what you're buying. The store also ships for $4.99, so if you discover something that works during your visit, you can easily reorder from home.

What makes Aunt Bonnie's special isn't just the products - it's the approach. In a world where wellness can feel complicated or intimidating, they've created a space where curiosity is welcomed, questions are answered, and solutions are found. For Manchester visitors, it's become the unexpected stop that solves problems they didn't even know they had.

Ready to explore natural wellness solutions? Visit Aunt Bonnie's at 4943 on Main Street, Manchester. For more information and to shop online, visit AuntBonnies.com

This wellness guide is brought to you in partnership with the Manchester Business Association, connecting you with the businesses and experiences that make Manchester, Vermont, a premier destination.

The post Your Manchester Wellness Haven: Where Locals and Travelers Find Unexpected Solutions appeared first on Vermont.com.

The first thing you notice walking into The Copper Grouse isn't just the warm lighting or the elegant botanical wallpaper - it's how the recently renovated interior strikes that perfect balance between classic sophistication and contemporary comfort. Rich leather banquettes, exposed wooden beams, and thoughtfully curated artwork create a space that feels both timeless and completely current. But step outside onto their expansive patio, and you'll discover where this Manchester restaurant truly comes alive during Vermont's precious summer months.

Nestled within the Kimpton Taconic Hotel, The Copper Grouse has mastered the art of showcasing Vermont's seasonal bounty through both creative cuisine and genuine community partnerships. Their summer menu reads like a love letter to local farms, while their outdoor space provides the perfect stage for enjoying it all.

A Canvas for Summer Creativity

The current summer menu at Copper Grouse demonstrates what happens when creative culinary vision meets Vermont's peak growing season. Take their Summer Cucumber chilled soup - a refreshing composition of avocado, green apple, and diced cucumber brightened with cucumber vinegar and basil micro greens. It's the kind of dish that captures summer in a bowl, showcasing how local ingredients can be transformed into something unexpectedly elegant.

Their Heirloom Beet Salad combines red beet coulis with arugula, candied walnuts, and grated feta for a plate that's as visually stunning as it is flavorful, while the Tomato Gazpacho elevates the classic with marinated heirloom cherry tomatoes and fresh basil. These aren't just pretty dishes - they represent a thoughtful approach to highlighting Vermont's agricultural diversity.

The creativity extends to unexpected touches like their Chickpea Fries served with sriracha aioli, and the Sourdough Tartine topped with arugula oil, asparagus, and perfectly poached eggs. The Garganelli pasta showcases roasted garlic with basil and parsley coulis, asparagus, and English peas - a dish that feels both refined and comfortingly familiar.

For mains, the Grilled Salmon demonstrates the kitchen's attention to both flavor and presentation, served alongside arugula, asparagus, glazed baby carrots, and finished with saffron butter. Every plate arrives as a small work of art, with vibrant colors and careful plating that reflects the quality of ingredients underneath.

Local Partnerships That Go Beyond the Menu

What sets Copper Grouse apart isn't just their commitment to local sourcing - it's how deeply they've woven themselves into Manchester's community fabric. Their bar features exclusively Vermont beers, including Longtail IPA, because as manager Susann Crunden puts it, "Vermont has a really sensational beer culture."

The most intriguing partnership story involves Bhakta Spirits. Since 2022, Copper Grouse has collaborated with Raj Bhakta to create their own Copper Grouse Armagnac line. This isn't just another local product on the shelf - it's featured in a signature specialty cocktail that you can't get anywhere else. "It's something signature, unique to the property that we're really proud of," Crunden notes.

Their local connections extend to partnerships with Clear Brook Farm, Earth Sky Time, and Woodlawn Farmstead, whose seasonal produce drives those creative menu changes throughout the summer. They also work with Village Garage Distillery, creating a spirits program that reads like a Vermont craft beverage tour.

A Patio Built for Vermont Summers

The outdoor space at Copper Grouse feels purpose-built for those perfect Vermont summer evenings. Beyond the dining tables, guests can settle into rocking chairs to gather around the firepit, challenge friends to lawn games, or simply enjoy a cocktail on the expansive lawn. The cheerful yellow lemonade stand tucked among the Adirondack chairs adds a whimsical touch, serving refreshing strawberry-lavender lemonades and blueberry limeades crafted with berries from local Vermont farms.

"We wanted something to activate that space more," explains Nicholas Squire General Manager from the Taconic team. "We have the rocking chairs there to sit and enjoy the view, we have the Adirondack chairs on the lawn, we have the lawn games - so we wanted something to take advantage of the guests that are on property and hanging around."

Community Ambassadors in Aprons

Here's where Copper Grouse really distinguishes itself: they see their role as promoting all of Manchester, not just their own tables. Staff actively hand out recommendation sheets featuring their favorite coffee shops, bagel spots, hiking trails, and running routes around town.

"We try to promote the town as a whole," Squire explains. This philosophy extends to active partnerships with local attractions - bring your Dorset Theatre playbill for 10% off your meal, or show your Pastime Pinball receipt for special offers.

Their Monday Music Nights solve a uniquely Vermont problem: Mondays can be a bit of a ghost town. "There's not a lot to do on Monday night," Crunden laughs, "but we have live music." Throughout the Summer, these events bring together both locals and visitors, creating the kind of authentic community gathering that makes Manchester special.

Balancing Tourist Destination with Local Hangout

The challenge many Manchester restaurants face is serving both visitors seeking a Vermont experience and locals who just want a fantastic meal. Copper Grouse addresses this thoughtfully through their programming. During shoulder seasons, they offer pre-fixed menus (two courses for $35-37, three courses for $45) specifically designed for local diners. Sunday brings half-off wine bottles that pack the brunch crowd.

"You want to showcase Vermont products on the menu, but it's trying to get them at a price point that's attractive..." Squire reflects. It's a balance that requires constant attention, but one they've clearly thought through.

Planning Your Visit

The Copper Grouse operates year-round at 3835 Main Street, Manchester, VT 05254, within the Kimpton Taconic Hotel, but summer is when both the outdoor space and seasonal menu truly shine. Lunch and dinner service take full advantage of the patio, weather permitting (this is Vermont, after all).

While the team dreams of eventually serving grouse on a copper plate - a perfect marriage of their name and local hunting traditions - the current focus remains on creative presentations of fresh, local ingredients that change with Vermont's seasons.

The Copper Grouse proves that the best restaurant experiences happen when creative cuisine meets genuine community connection. Whether you're a first-time Manchester visitor or a local looking for Monday night plans, this is a spot that understands how to make every guest feel like they're part of the Vermont story.

For reservations and current hours, visit coppergrouse.com or call ahead. The restaurant is located within the Kimpton Taconic Hotel at 3835 Main Street, Manchester, VT 05254.

This dining adventure is brought to you in partnership with the Manchester Business Association, connecting you with the businesses and experiences that make Manchester, Vermont, a premier adventure destination.

The post Where Creative Summer Cuisine Meets Vermont's Finest Local Partnerships appeared first on Vermont.com.

The twice-baked potatoes are perfectly golden, stuffed with Vermont cheddar and scallions. The maple mustard salmon glistens on its bed of sautéed spinach. And the famous Howling Wolf - that aromatic curry creation that's been a customer favorite since her restaurant days - sits ready to reheat in containers sized for busy families who want something extraordinary for dinner tonight.

You might remember Amy Chamberlain from her appearances on Food Network or her award-winning Perfect Wife restaurant that drew crowds to Manchester for over two decades. What you might not know is that she's traded the 90-seat dining room for something more personal: bringing restaurant-quality food directly to Manchester families, event hosts, and anyone who believes dinner should be delicious without the fuss.

The Chef Who Chose Freedom (And Made It Work for Everyone)

After winning Vermont Chef of the Year in 2010 and building The Perfect Wife into a Manchester institution, Amy made a choice that surprised many in the industry. She stepped away from the packed restaurant life to focus on what she loves most - cooking - while giving herself the flexibility to actually enjoy Vermont's summers, catch a music festival, or spend time with her teenage son.

"I can still plan a vacation or go see music," Amy explains. "And the trade-off is that I get to work directly with people on exactly what they want."

That personal approach has created something unique in Manchester: access to professional culinary expertise without the typical barriers. No reservations, no formal dining rooms, no inflated prices that come with restaurant overhead.

Restaurant-Quality Food, Home-Style Convenience

Amy's weekly email menu reads like a greatest hits collection from her restaurant days. The schnitzel that customers drove from Albany to try. The beloved maple mustard salmon. The Howling Wolf curry that uses the same sauce she served with those legendary eggplant fries at her food truck.

The system is beautifully simple: Amy sends out a weekly email featuring what she's prepared that week. Customers order online and pick up from her Manchester Valley Road kitchen. Everything comes portioned for one to two people and ready to reheat at home. No meal planning, no grocery runs, no cleanup - just restaurant-quality food when you want it.

The weekly offerings might include her signature three-cheese lasagna, PEI mussels in tomato and garlic broth, or Vermont turkey schnitzel with lemon-sage sauce. Prices reflect the quality of ingredients and expertise without restaurant markup - that twice-baked potato costs $5, the maple mustard salmon is $36 for two generous portions.

Perfect for Manchester's New Reality

Amy's timing couldn't be better for Manchester's evolving demographic. The families moving up from the cities who aren't used to, or wanting to, cook for themselves every night. The retirees who want quality food without the effort. The busy professionals who value good eating but not grocery shopping.

"I really want [...] the families, you know, the people who moved from New York," Amy says. "They're looking for an alternative to spending hundreds on a private chef, but they want quality."

Her partnership with In Motion gym showcases this perfectly. Every Thursday at 10 AM, Amy drops off healthy, nutritionist-approved options in the gym's refrigerators. Recent offerings included salmon burgers with sweet potatoes, chickpea falafel, and her popular chicken salad - all designed for people who take their fitness as seriously as their food quality.

Why Manchester's Smartest Hosts Never Cook for Their Own Parties

Here's where Amy's restaurant background really shines: her catering operation. While she's stepped back from managing large events (no more 200-person weddings), she's found her sweet spot in intimate gatherings of 8 to 40 people.

"That's my wheelhouse," she says. "Dinners where I can create multi-course plated meals or just make beautiful trays of chicken piccata and beef bourguignon for pickup."

The flexibility is everything. Want Amy to handle the full event with staff for setup, serving, and cleanup? She can do that. Prefer to just pick up professionally prepared food and handle hosting yourself? Perfect. Need something in between? She'll work with you.

Recent clients rave about the stress-free experience. Julia of Pawlet hired Amy for a five-course meal for 30 people and said: "The service felt like dining in a fine restaurant. Amy and her team exceeded our expectations and left our kitchen spotless. I'm already looking for an excuse to hire her again."

For Alicia in Dorset, Amy handled both a black-tie wedding and a garden cocktail party: "Amy is a genius. She delivered incredible food on budget, handled everything with grace and good humor, and made both events absolutely seamless."

The Perfect Wife Legacy Lives On

Walk into Amy's current kitchen and you'll find the same attention to local sourcing and seasonal ingredients that made The Perfect Wife special. The same commitment to handcrafted food that earned her five Food Network appearances. The same willingness to customize for dietary restrictions or personal preferences that kept customers loyal for decades.

What's different is the intimacy. Instead of managing a 90-seat restaurant, Amy works directly with each client. The couple with strict dietary restrictions gets personalized weekly meal prep billed by the hour. The family hosting an anniversary dinner gets menu planning that considers their guests' preferences and budget.

"I love being creative in the kitchen and making delicious and healthy food with local, seasonal and sustainable ingredients," Amy explains. And now, without the restaurant overhead and staffing challenges, she can focus entirely on that craft.

Getting Started Is Simple

Ready to try restaurant-quality food without the restaurant hassle? Start by signing up for Amy's weekly email menu at Amy’s On The Road new website or browse her current takeaway offerings. You'll get early access to each week's offerings - and trust us, the popular items do sell out.

Planning an event? Contact Amy at (802) 558-1977 or chefamy@amysontheroad.com at least 72 hours in advance, or explore her catering and party options. She'll work with you to create a menu that fits your style, guest count, and service preferences.

For private chef services, Amy offers two options: meals prepared in her kitchen for pickup (groceries plus $75/hour) or cooking fresh in your home ($150/hour). Learn more about her private chef services. Either way, you get fully customized meals designed around your tastes and dietary needs.

Whether you remember Amy from her Perfect Wife days or you're just discovering what she brings to Manchester's food scene, one thing is clear: she's made quality cooking more accessible than ever. And in a town where good food matters, that's something worth celebrating.

Amy's on the Road

53B Manchester Valley Road, Manchester Center, Vermont 05255

Weekly prepared meals, catering, and private chef services

(802) 558-1977

amysontheroad.com

This culinary adventure is brought to you in partnership with the Manchester Business Association, connecting you with the businesses and experiences that make Manchester, Vermont, a premier adventure destination.

The post Award-Winning Chef Amy Chamberlain Brings Restaurant-Quality Food To Your Home appeared first on Vermont.com.

Walk into Pastime Pinball on Main Street and you're immediately face-to-face with something magical: a place where grandparents rediscover their youth, parents become kids again, and children experience something revolutionary: entertainment you can't scroll through.

The journey begins in 1947 with Humpty Dumpty, the pinball machine that changed everything. This wasn't just another game - it was the first to feature fully automatic flippers, transforming pinball from a game of chance (considered gambling and therefore illegal) into a game of skill. That pivotal moment marks the literal birth of modern pinball, and it's where Beth and Marty Friedman launch their chronological adventure through eight decades of American culture.

Where History Becomes Hands-On Fun

Pastime Pinball calls itself a museum first, but this isn't your typical rope-off-and-look experience. The 66 machines downstairs aren't just artifacts - they're fully playable time capsules arranged chronologically around the perimeter, creating an interactive timeline where you can literally play through American entertainment history. Detailed signage provides the backstory: production runs, years, technological innovations, and the evolution of art styles that mirror comic book aesthetics of their eras.

"We can follow not just the art and technology, but the representation of women and ethnic groups," Beth explains. "It's very stereotypical in the early years, but you can see how society evolved through the games."

The genius lies in the combination: serious historical curation meets pure, unadulterated fun. You're learning about technological advancement while trying to beat your grandson's high score on Medieval Madness. You're studying artistic evolution while getting completely absorbed in a 1960s space-themed machine.

This historical depth resonates perfectly with Manchester's appreciation for preservation. Just as Hildene showcases Lincoln family history and local historical sites celebrate Vermont's past, Pastime Pinball preserves a uniquely American cultural artifact - one you can actually play.

The Magic of Multi-Generational Wonder

What Beth and Marty discovered early on transforms their space into something special: true multi-generational engagement where fun trumps everything else. "We get so many three generations," Beth says, "and what's really funny is the grandparents come in and they're nostalgic for the 1950s games. Then their adult children come up and they just turn into zombies playing Pac-Man and all the games they played when they were younger, while the youngest kids are tugging on their shoulders."

For older generations, it's pure nostalgia wrapped in competitive fun. For younger visitors, it's something revolutionary: hands-on entertainment where you can't be on your phone while playing. The physics, angles, and timing required tap into STEM principles - making each game a lesson in applied science disguised as pure entertainment.

Screen-Free Entertainment That Actually Works

In an age when families struggle to disconnect from devices, Pastime Pinball offers something increasingly rare: an environment where digital distraction simply doesn't work, and nobody minds. You need both hands, complete attention, and split-second timing to master these mechanical marvels - and the payoff is immediate, visceral fun.

"The younger generation doesn't even know what they're missing," Beth notes. "High school kids don't know pinball unless they grew up with it." But once they start playing, something clicks. The tactile feedback, the mechanical sounds, the immediate cause-and-effect of flippers and ball create an immersive experience no screen can replicate - and pure joy that spans generations.

The educational component enhances rather than overshadows the entertainment. Each machine represents technological advancement, artistic evolution, and cultural history, but you're discovering these layers while completely absorbed in trying to achieve multiball or unlock the next bonus round. A cocktail table pinball machine sits among the collection - not because it succeeded, but because it represents an "epic failure" that demonstrates how innovation sometimes misses the mark. These teaching moments weave throughout the chronological journey, but the fun always comes first.

Vermont Craftsmanship in Curation

Beth and Marty's approach reflects Vermont values: quality over quantity, education over flashiness, community over profit. Every Friday, 25% of snack bar sales supports Manchester's community food cupboard. They provide rack cards to local inns and Airbnbs, helping visitors discover authentic Manchester experiences.

The technical dedication required is staggering. A skilled technician from Dorset works on-site virtually every day the arcade isn't open to the public, maintaining machines that demand engineering and mechanical expertise. "You have to have the skills of an engineer, a mechanical engineer," Beth explains. "They are few and far between."

Finding that technician was so crucial that Beth and Marty collected 45 machines in their New Jersey house before signing their Vermont lease.

Making Manchester Memories

Pastime Pinball has perfectly adapted to Manchester's resort town rhythm. Open primarily weekends and holidays when visitors and second homeowners arrive, they've fine-tuned their operation around when families actually want to play together.

The real magic happens in everyday moments: when competitive players practice for hours on single machines, when three generations discover they can share joy across eight decades of games, when families realize they've spent hours together without anyone checking their phone. The combination of historical significance and pure entertainment creates something uniquely Manchester - sophisticated enough for adults, educational enough for curious minds, but fundamentally designed around the simple pleasure of play.

Your Time Machine Awaits

Pastime Pinball proves that the best Manchester experiences often hide behind unassuming exteriors. What might look like a simple arcade reveals itself as a carefully curated journey through American culture, a multi-generational gathering place, and proof that sometimes the most meaningful entertainment requires no wifi connection.

Whether you're seeking a rainy day refuge, a history lesson disguised as fun, or simply a place where your family can rediscover the joy of playing together, this Main Street treasure delivers experiences you can't download.

Reserve time for your chronological journey - these 80 years of pinball history aren't going anywhere, but your afternoon will disappear faster than a silver ball down the drain.

Pastime Pinball
4802 Main Street, Manchester Center, Vermont 05255
Open weekends and holidays (check website for seasonal hours)
Private events and parties available
pastimepinball.com

This pinball adventure is brought to you in partnership with the Manchester Business Association, connecting you with the businesses and experiences that make Manchester, Vermont, a premier adventure destination.

The post Pastime Pinball: Part time machine, part museum, all fun. appeared first on Vermont.com.

The dark iron ore exterior of Squirrel catches your eye before you even know what you're looking at. The building sits just off Manchester's main drag, its dark facade standing out against the trees like a lighthouse for art lovers. But here's what makes you stop: this isn't another predictable gift shop filled with mass-produced trinkets. Owner Catharine Sullivan has one ironclad rule - if she can find it on Amazon, it doesn't make the cut.

"I honestly search on Amazon now when I find things," Sullivan admits, straightening a piece of original artwork that caught the morning breeze. "If it's there, I don't want it. It's amazing how much ends up there."

A Building With Stories to Tell

The Amazon test wasn't born from marketing strategy - it grew from Sullivan's deep respect for things with genuine provenance. Her background in historic preservation, studying nights at the Boston Architectural College while working downtown, taught her to recognize when something has earned its place in the world.

The building itself proves the point. This late 1800s firehouse was physically moved to its current location, complete with a hose-drying tower that once hung cotton hoses to dry after fires. The tower's cap blew off in a hurricane years ago, leaving it chopped short, but Sullivan dreams of hosting a "capping party" with a crane to restore it to its original glory.

"I'm a bit of a serial renovator," she explains, running her hand along the original wood ceiling of the second floor that she left completely untouched. "I was fascinated by how new buildings talk to old buildings in Boston. When I saw this little firehouse, I knew it needed to go dark and have a different presence."

The Sherwin-Williams Iron Ore paint choice wasn't arbitrary. People ask about that color constantly, drawn to how it stands out while still feeling natural against the trees. Inside, industrial lighting and brick floors honor the building's working past while creating gallery-quality illumination for the art.

The Art of Saying No

Sullivan's curation philosophy goes beyond avoiding Amazon. She sources through buyer shows, artisan fairs, and endless antiquing expeditions, always hunting for pieces that catch her eye in unexpected ways. At one show, she wandered into a tiny showroom that seemed completely outside her usual aesthetic - until she discovered hand-stitched leather pieces with whipstitching and unique detailing that somehow felt perfect for her clientele.

"My belief is there's something awesome in every store, no matter what it is," she says. "I have my own personal filter of things that I like and how I feel things go together."

More than half her featured artists are Vermont or New England based. Kate Longmaidfrom Shelburne captures still life florals with a gentle palette. Ken Russack from Burlington has been painting area locations for years, creating mood and feeling rather than just documentation. George Van Hook, just over the border in Cambridge, New York, with his country roads and fishing scenes embodying quintessential Vermont in ways that feel both timeless and immediate.

Even artists from elsewhere paint Vermont. Eva Cincotta from Massachusetts spends time in Dorset, creating pieces named for specific Vermont locations. Chris Firger making his first foray into a Vermont gallery, brought exclusively Vermont scenes to life with his stunning works.

Making Art Accessible

The "littles" wall upstairs showcases Sullivan's commitment to accessibility. Every piece measures under 12 by 12 inches, creating an entry point for people who lack space or budget for major works. The wall mixes established artists with vintage finds and antique discoveries, all priced to let someone walk out with original art.

"If you don't have room for a 36 by 48 piece, or you can't afford it, you don't want it, you don't need it, you can come in here and leave with something," Sullivan explains. "Good art always finds a home."

An upcoming dog commission service builds on this philosophy. After testing the waters with a painting of Hazel - the gallery's tail-wagging greeter who's never met a visitor she didn't like - Sullivan plans to offer custom pet portraits, because everyone deserves a visual reminder of why their dog is the best.

The Seasonal Strategy

Sullivan's retail instincts recognize that Manchester serves different audiences throughout the year. Winter brings Stratton skiers looking for mountain art and interior design pieces for their second homes. Summer residents return from Florida seeking hostess gifts and smaller works that travel well.

"I try to think about what each of those different audiences might want," she says, describing how she rotates skiing art for winter guests, then switches to lighter pieces and gift items for summer entertaining.

The approach extends beyond artwork. Hand-assembled journals and book boxes by a local artisan (who prefers to keep his craft as a hobby) provide unique gift options. Textile taxidermy deer heads covered in Pendleton fabrics offer a modern take on Vermont lodge aesthetics. Even the candle selection rotates constantly, ensuring regular customers always discover something new.

A Gallery That Happens to Have Stuff

Sullivan originally envisioned a pure gallery but evolved into what she calls having "feet on two lily pads." The merchandise responds to customer demand while maintaining the same curation standards as the art.

"It's a small town," she explains. "You serve your clientele with what people want, and I love both, so it works out."

The result feels authentically Manchester - sophisticated enough for serious collectors, accessible enough for curious browsers, and personal enough that word-of-mouth drives much of the business. People come to "smell some pretty," as Sullivan and her friends put it, and discover pieces they didn't know they needed.

Planning Your Visit

Squirrel sits at 345 Center Hill Road, tucked just behind the main commercial strip, but highly worth seeking out. The building's location means you might miss it from the corner, but that's part of its charm - like a hidden treasure waiting to be discovered.

Summer brings planned "Sip and Shop" events, and weather permitting, occasional pop-up tent sales during busy weekends. Follow their Instagram for surprise events and new arrival announcements.

The real draw isn't any single piece - it's Sullivan's eye for combining contemporary and traditional work in ways that feel both curated and effortless. Whether you're starting an art collection or adding to an established one, whether you need a thoughtful gift or want to treat yourself, Squirrel offers something you genuinely can't find anywhere else.

And that's exactly the point.

Squirrel Gallery
345 Center Hill Road Manchester, VT
Website: squirrelmanchester.com

This art and shopping guide is brought to you in partnership with the Manchester Business Association, connecting you with the businesses and experiences that make Manchester, Vermont, a premier adventure destination.

The post Squirrel: The Firehouse Gallery Where Every Piece Tells a Story appeared first on Vermont.com.

This is the moment Smugglers' Notch Resort banks on. Literally.

As the only resort in North America bold enough to guarantee family fun or refund your money, Smugglers' Notch Resort doesn't just promise memorable Vermont vacations - they stake their reputation on delivering them. After spending time exploring what they call "America's Family Resort," it becomes clear why they're confident enough to put their money where their marketing is.

What Really Sets This Apart

Walk into any family resort and you'll find pools and playgrounds. What makes Smugglers' Notch different isn't just what they have - it's how thoughtfully they've designed every experience around the reality of family dynamics. Take their signature Family Fun Adventure Package, which doesn't just bundle activities together but creates a progression of experiences that build confidence and connection.

The resort's $4 million investment in FunZone 2.0 tells the story perfectly. This isn't your typical hotel game room with a few dusty arcade machines. We're talking about a 26,000-square-foot indoor entertainment complex where families can spend entire afternoons regardless of Vermont weather. The giant inflatable slide draws squeals from the Ozone level, while the 3,500-square-foot laser tag arena below delivers strategic battles that level the playing field between kids and adults.

The 30-plus arcade games keep everyone entertained, but it's really the Go Zone that demonstrates their commitment to meaningful family experiences. The climbing wall, Smuggs Warrior obstacle courses, and the Leap of Faith platform jump create genuine challenge and achievement moments - the kind that become family legends.

The Vermont Lifestyle Connection

Here's what really captures the Vermont spirit: Smugglers' Notch delivers outdoor adventure without the intimidation factor that keeps some families from embracing mountain life. Their ArborTrek Canopy Tours let kids fly free with paying adults, introducing families to Vermont's forest canopy in a way that builds rather than tests courage. The brand-new 9-hole disc golf course provides another entry point into Vermont's outdoor culture, complete with free rental discs.

The three heated pools and Mountainside Water Playground opened May 23rd, turning the Green Mountains into a summer playground where families can swim with mountain views. It's Vermont leisure at its most approachable - scenic beauty paired with genuine fun rather than forced adventure.

What surprised us most were the evening activities that actually bring families together rather than splitting them apart. When Jammin' Sam hosts the Vermont Country Fair on the Village Green or Rockin' Ron the Friendly Pirate runs family bingo, three generations find themselves genuinely engaged in the same activity. That's harder to orchestrate than it sounds.

The Market Reality

The Family Fun Adventure Package starts around $200 per night for a family of four in condo-style accommodations, including access to most activities and 30% off their award-winning children's programs. When you factor in the space of full condos (kitchens, multiple bedrooms, living areas), plus the breadth of included activities, it competes favorably with cramped hotel rooms and à la carte pricing elsewhere.

The guarantee itself reflects something important about Vermont's tourism evolution. While other destinations ask families to take expensive vacation gambles, Smugglers' Notch has built their operation around measurable family satisfaction. They track participation in their programs and know with confidence that families who engage for at least two days consistently report positive experiences.

For Vermont vacation planning, this represents a shift toward accountability that benefits everyone. Families get transparent expectations and genuine recourse if experiences don't deliver. Vermont gets a flagship family destination that elevates standards across the region.

The summer season runs through early September, with prime family weeks booking up by March. Smart timing means reserving directly with their vacation planners who can optimize packages around your family's specific interests - whether that's maximizing water activities, diving deep into children's programming, or balancing active adventures with relaxation time.

Smugglers' Notch has figured out something that eludes many family destinations: confidence comes from delivering consistently rather than promising extravagantly. When you're willing to guarantee the experience, you build operations that actually work for families. That eight-year-old ringing the bell at the top of the climbing wall? She's not just conquering her fear - she's proving that some vacation promises are worth making.

Ready to create your own family memories with Vermont's only guaranteed fun experience? Book your Family Fun Adventure Package directly with Smugglers' Notch and discover why they're confident enough to put their reputation on the line for your family's good time.

The post Inside Smugglers' Notch: Where Vermont's Family Fun Guarantee Actually Delivers appeared first on Vermont.com.