Francesca & Nicholas' Wedding
Things To Do
Up For Breakfast
We've never been here together - maybe we should change that? On a typical weekend we're usually skiing in the morning and when we drive down to Manchester, there's usually a line of girls waiting for hashbrowns in front of Up for Breakfast. It's delicious and for those Obies, this has a little Black River Cafe vibe.
Sam's Wood Fired Pizza Co.
This is our emergency food pit stop. As two New Yorkers, we are picky about Pizza, but this spot "slaps". Francesca loves "The Ben" slice and Nick loves "The Hangover" -- and we usually get the two slice special with a soda. If you love ice cream, definitely splurge for the Maple Creemee (basically a delish custardy soft-serve).
Northshire Bookstore
Northshire Bookstore is a Vermont fixture. For us, there’s no weekend in Manchester without a visit to Northshire. It’s like Vermont’s McNally Jackson, but with a “goods for the study” section that is less avant-garde and more kitsch. Browse the staff recommendations, the Vermont history sections and the fantastic cookbook selections 🥰 For parents, aunts and uncles there is an adorable children's section on the second floor.
Manchester Woodcraft
While Northshire is our favorite, Manchester Woodcraft is a close second. This female run woodworking collective whittles out gorgeous home goods and decor. Take home a slice of Vermont to decorate your home.
The Mountain Goat
Forgot your hiking boots and croakies, or secretly want to cop an Osprey Fanny pack and dress like Nick the Tourist? Look no further than the Mountain Goat, an outdoor outfitter that is set apart by their knowledgeable staff. They have great advice on hikes, watering holes and more. They've guided Francesca to a secret bouldering cove over by the Long Trail and helped her find her first pair of trail running shoes.
Smugglers' Notch Distillery
A local whiskey tasting room just down the road from our hotels! This is right across from Northshire, next door to Pastime Pinball and also located centrally by all of the local outlets for shopping.
Pastime Pinball
EPIC! A curated arcade of vintage pinball machines that showcase the innovation and cultural phenomena of the ages. It's well worth a stop in to play the Star Trek pinball or play your hand at an early 1950's game, Paratrooper!
Dorset Marble Quarry
Vermont is famous for its marble. It is believed that the first commercial marble quarry ever built in North America, was in Dorset. Dorset marble has become richly entwined with American history and has helped build some of the most memorable monuments and buildings, including the headstones at the Arlington Cemetery and more famously the Supreme Court building.
Griffith Lake Trail
This is a very easy trail with no elevation that ends at Griffith Lake. Get to the trail in the morning, then take a swim in the lake before you return on the out and back route. Puddles and Francesca love this nature walk.
Equinox Mountain
If you're looking for a hike, look no further. A hike to the top of Mount Equinox gives you some of the best views in all of Vermont. At the top of the mountain, which is also drivable, you will be able to go to the observation deck to learn more about the surrounding mountains and area. This is a highly recommended activity.
Hildene, The Lincoln Family Home
Hildene is a part of American and Vermont history. This property was owned by the Lincoln family (one of Lincoln's famous top hats is part of the museum) and is now converted into a museum and farm. There are TONS of baby goats, as well as some of the best views in Manchester.
Prospect Rock Trail
Get to know this 3.1-mile out-and-back trail near Manchester Center, Vermont. Generally considered a moderately challenging route, it takes an average of 1 h 58 min to complete. This is a popular trail for birding, hiking, and running, but you can still enjoy some solitude during quieter times of day. The trail is open year-round and is beautiful to visit anytime. Dogs are welcome, but must be on a leash.
Lye Brook Falls Trailhead
Enjoy this 4.8-mile out-and-back trail near Manchester Center, Vermont. Generally considered a moderately challenging route, it takes an average of 2 h 22 min to complete. This is a very popular area for birding, hiking, and running, so you'll likely encounter other people while exploring. The best times to visit this trail are April through October. Dogs are welcome, but must be on a leash.
Lowell Lake State Park
A gorgeous nature walk and lake that draws tons of families in each week in the Summer. This is an awesome place for canoeing, kayaking or SUP. Be on the lookout for abandoned cabins from a former summer camp that was on the property before the State of Vermont purchased it in 1977.
Equinox Pond
Explore this 2.5-mile loop trail near Manchester Center, Vermont. Generally considered an easy route, it takes an average of 55 min to complete. This is a popular trail for hiking and snowshoeing, but you can still enjoy some solitude during quieter times of day.
Stratton Mountain
Stratton is our home ski mountain. However, in the summer time, it is one of the better mountain biking spots (you can rent bikes at the mountain), with a Gondola that takes you and your bike to the top of the mountain and several trail options to ride down, depending on difficulty. Stratton also has quite a few hikes, as well as a few food options.
Dorset Farmers Market
Your plans for Sunday just got better. Bring home fresh local veggies, cheese, bread from Vermont's favorite, Earth Sky Time, and maybe a gallon of Maple Syrup for your turmeric lattes. Vermont's had a rainy summer and these farmers could use the support!
Dorset Bakery
A charming bakery with a delicious lunch menu! If you don't make it here you'll have a chance to try their bakes at the end of the wedding :)
Bromley Market
The world's most ferocious sandwiches.
Dutton Berry Farm
Fresh Fruit, Maple Cremees and Pies!