Shopping, Learning, Eating, And Relaxing In Southern Vermont

Hanora Vineyard Gazebo with Mountain view

If you love Fall time, Vermont is the place to be. Obviously “leaf peeping” or viewing the foliage is the number one thing to do in Vermont, but once you have taken in all of the beautiful colors what should you do? We’ve got you covered! Here are the 4 ways to take in everything Southern Vermont has to offer in the Fall.

Unique Shopping

When we go somewhere we don’t want to shop at the usual places. What’s unique about that? We’d rather shop in one of a kind places and find local goods. We don’t want to brag, but Vermont is counted among the states with the least amount of shopping malls. Shopping small is a way of life here.

Our favorite places to shop in southern Vermont include:

  • Wilmington: This small town has a charming downtown area with a variety of unique shops, including antique stores, art galleries, and boutiques.
  • Brattleboro: This larger town has a more eclectic mix of shops, including independent bookstores, vintage clothing stores, and specialty food shops.
  • Manchester: This upscale town has a mix of high-end boutiques and independent shops, as well as a variety of restaurants and cafes.
  • Wilmington Flea Market: This outdoor flea market is held every Sunday from May to October and features a wide variety of vendors selling everything from antiques to handmade crafts.

Learning

You’re never too late or too old to learn something new. Being a part of New England, Vermont has been around since the beginning and has a rich history. If you have an interest in Revolutionary History there are some great places to visit. Our favorites are in Bennington, Vermont.

If you’re a poet at heart, you won’t want to miss Robert Frost’s house in the neighboring town of Shaftsbury. And be sure to check out our full list of places to “explore the arts” in southern Vermont.

Eating

All of this exploring and sightseeing needs to be fueled, and southern Vermont has a variety of delicious restaurants to choose from, all within a short drive of The Engel House.

If you’re looking for a unique dining experience we recommend The Sawmill in Dover. For a romantic dinner, Clara’s Cucina at The White House Inn in Wilmington is a great choice. For casual and cozy, we highly recommend The Anchor in Wilmington. And if you’re tired and don’t want to go far. A short walk from The Engel House is the new Jax on Tap right here in Jacksonville. They have a small bar with a pool table and other games. The food is pizza, pub fair, and more with the attached general store. We love their sandwiches!

Relaxing

After a day of shopping, learning, and indulging in delicious meals, it’s time to unwind and enjoy the serene surroundings. For the ultimate relaxation experience, we recommend The Engel House, where you have multiple options for unwinding.

Choose our front porch for a perfect, relaxing moment: Imagine donning a cozy sweater, sipping on a cup coffee or tea, and basking in the warm sun as it illuminates the porch and provides breathtaking views of the colorful mountains.

If you prefer some quiet time with a good book, our library offers a peaceful retreat. Select a book from our well-stocked shelves and settle in by the fireplace for a cozy evening.

For those seeking more options, don’t miss Vermont Distillers with its incredible Hogback mountain view. Enjoy a drink crafted from locally made spirits while relaxing on their spacious deck. Wilmington is also home to several outstanding breweries, perfect for beer enthusiasts.

Alternatively, if a spa day is more your speed, “A New You” Day Spa, conveniently located in downtown Wilmington, awaits to pamper you and help you rejuvenate.