A weekend getaway with all the trimmings of a nice hotel, cute town, short drive, golf and relaxation
Memorial Day is never hot in New York City. On the rare occasion it will be warm, but never hot. It’s a great time to drive or fly somewhere rather close so you can get out of the city for the long weekend but you will always need a sweater or fleece at night. Memorial Day is traditionally when Scott and I celebrate our wedding anniversary. Manchester, Vermont is a great suggestion as a long weekend getaway at just over 5 hours from New York City.
What to Pack
For a weekend getaway in Vermont, I suggest packing light but practical. Bring jeans, a few cute tops, comfy shoes, something to play golf in, and a dress. But a jacket and an extra sweater would also be prudent with the chilly weather happening this summer in New England.
Places to Stay
I have always wanted to stay at The Equinox – it’s classic Vermont luxury in the adorable town of Manchester. The Equinox Resort is known for the special events and incredible activities. They have their own 18-hole course, an Orvis experience where you can try fly fishing and shooting at their own school, hike the green mountains, sit by the pool or indulge in their spa. Given we are still under some pandemic rules, golf and sitting by the pool would be high on my agenda but the Equinox only has an indoor pool and outside would be chilly at this time of year. They also have these great experiences at night such as s’mores by the fire and axe throwing.
For those of you have been reading my recent posts you also know I have been learning to play golf. Equinox is known for a having a beautiful course designed by Rees Jones.
Where to Eat
The locals love Up for Breakfast – Eggs, pancakes, granola… it’s all fresh farm to table deliciousness. Located at 4935 Main Street, Manchester. Make sure to call ahead to see whether it’s open.
SoLo Farm & Table – When you think of Vermont you think of farm fresh edibles and goodies. In fact, in NYC you get Vermont farms bringing their goods literally to market at the NYC farmer’s markets several days a week. The restaurant was not open for outdoor dining when we visited but take-out abounds.
Manchester Woodcraft – An incredible emporium of every type of wood kitchen item and dozens of other hand crafted items to buy and save as gifts. Located at: 175 Depot Street, Manchester Center, VT.
Sam’s Wood Fired Pizza Co. has amazing pizza favored by locals, grab a pie to go for a picnic or you can also sit at the tables and eat outside. Located at: 4478 Main Street, Manchester, VT.
The Crooked Ram has lovely indoor and outdoor seating. The staff are very knowledgeable and they specialize in serving local cheese, charcuterie, beers and wines! Definitely a must stop in the afternoon after a hike.
The Copper Grouse gets rave reviews. go for drinks and dinner for true farm to table excellence. It’s located in the Taconic Hotel another lovely place to stay located at: 3835 Main Street, Manchester, VT.
Shopping Ideas
Manchester is also home to Orvis. the famous outdoor, fly fishing and hiking specialty retailer. They have a beautiful store here as well as a fly fishing school. Worth the trip here if you are a big fan. Located at: 4180 Main Street, Manchester, VT.
If you are a fan of Marimekko the town has an outlet store, in fact it’s the only one in the nation and they have an awesome selection of dresses and home accessories at 25-75% off retail. Located at: 4746 Main Street, Manchester, VT
Find our other long weekend ideas like hiking like Door County here and the Berkshires.
