The Bennington County towns of Manchester and Manchester Center, Vermont are surrounded by spectacular mountains including the 3816' Mt. Equinox. Manchester is in the southwestern corner of Vermont, located midway between Bennington and Rutland on U.S. Route 7.

In its early days, Manchester Village was nearly exclusive as a destination for the rich and famous, as evidenced by the grand Hildene Estate - summer home of Robert Todd Lincoln, the son of President Abraham Lincoln. This 412-acre estate on Route 7A south of Manchester, is open to the public year-round and is home to numerous art, music, and recreational events. At the center of this affluent village stands the 200-year old Equinox Hotel, which continues to serve as Manchester's elegant centerpiece. Within steps of its doorway lies numerous boutiques and quaint shops along marble walkways. Also nearby are the American Museum of Fly Fishing and the Ekwanok Country Club.

In addition to an abundance of history and intrigue, Manchester serves today as a shopping mecca for those seeking its renowned Factory Outlet Malls, Antique Shops, and the region's traditional quaint New England shops. Day visitors will be thrilled with the large and diverse selection of restaurants available in the area, and overnight guests are offered a multitude of lodging venues - from country inns and B&Bs to destination resorts.

Downtown Manchester features dozens of fashion outlets and specialty stores which have helped make Manchester a shopping destination and regional tourist attraction. The Orvis Company is headquartered here, and the region offers excellent trout fishing on Vermont's famous Battenkill River. Manchester is also home to the Manchester Journal and Vermont News Guide weekly newspapers.

Excellent ski resorts and golf courses abound in the Manchester area - the Bromley Mountain Ski Area is located on Route 11 in the town of Peru, the Stratton Mountain Resort & Ski Area is located off Route 30, and Magic Mountain Ski Area is located in Windham.

Manchester and the surrounding mountains offer outstanding hiking, snowshoeing, and snowmobiling opportunities.

In a nutshell, the picturesque town of Manchester, Vermont boasts nature's beauty, cultural activity, fine or casual dining, diverse lodging, great shopping, and is in close proximity to all Vermont sports and recreation venues.