Vermont Travel Notes

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This Saturday, October 27, Bennington VT is determined to win the Guinness World Record for the most jack-o-lanterns on display in one place. The current record is held by nearby Keene NH which set the record in 2003 with 28,952 officially counted.

Who says Americans don't have enough leisure time?

There will also be a Main Street parade at 4:00.

Seeing that many jack-o-lanterns will probably be an impressive sight so don't forget your camera.

Bennington is a nice town to visit with many architecturally and historically significant buildings. I recommend you take the walking tour around the Old First Church and cemetery on the west side of town. There is a very good quality Welcome Center in an old brick blacksmith's shop at the Corner of Route 7 and Elm Street where you can pick up literature on things to see. For some reason, it is closed on Sundays - when most visitors would be coming into town.

The Bennington website has a listing of local attractions.

You will also be near Arlington and Manchester, both of which are scenic towns. Manchester is known for its outlet stores but even if you won't want to go shopping, you should drive through this very pretty village. Just take Route 7 north from Bennington. It's about 15 minutes to Arlington and another 15 to Manchester where you will see the Reluctant Panther and the Equinox, both world class ($$$$) lodging and dining facilities. Since we are now entering "low season", The Equinox is running some specials, one of which offers three nights of lodging for just $333 - a fraction of what the rooms cost during busy seasons.

There are many other good quality inns and motels in the Manchester area that are not as expensive.

Southwest Vermont is one of my favorite areas to visit but it's been a while since I was there so I think I'll take another look at lodging places down there and get a trip scheduled soon.

(c) 2007 Jeff Connor



Bennington Old First Church,
the oldest church in Vermont