The Palmer House: Manchester’s Hidden Gem Resort
If you’re looking for a little getaway in New England, then Vermont is just the place. There are so many cute towns in the Green Mountain State, but one of the most frequented is Manchester. This little town in Southern Vermont is the typical New England community, located in Bennington County. Manchester has lots to do, from shopping, to dining to hiking, and more. There are so many great accommodation options in town, but if you’re looking for a place to unplug, relax and recharge, then I highly recommend The Palmer House Resort.
The Palmer House Resort, Ascend Hotel Collection: A Hidden Gem in the Heart of the Green Mountains
The Palmer House, formally known as the Best Western Palmer House Motel, originally started off on just three acres of land, when Hans and Luise Palmer purchased a tourist house and four summer cabins in the 1950’s. The Palmers had the goal in mind to create a space with all the comforts of home, so they continuously transformed the property and eventually turned it into a 28-unit luxury resort.
Fast forwarding to now, the most recent renovation came in October 2020, when the resort soft-branded with Choice Hotels as part of their Ascend Hotel Collection.* The latest renovations now provide guests with brand new, luxury on-site amenities, while still keeping the history and old charm of the original Palmer House (a stable and some old barn houses are still present around the property).
The resort is truly a hidden gem. From the side of the road you wouldn’t realize how large the entire property is. The Palmer House Resort is now a 16-acre boutique hotel with over 50 rooms, tucked away in the heart of the Green Mountains, and just a few minutes away from Downtown Manchester.
Wake Up to a View …
There are a range of rooms at The Palmer House, from standard double rooms to king suites. At most other places, you pay a little extra to get a nice view from your window, not here. No matter which room you reserve, you’re guaranteed a view. All the rooms have a view of either the golf course, the pond, or the mountains (and you get all this for reasonable prices, rates start at under $150/night).
Unplug, unwind and relax …
While you’re most likely staying in Manchester to explore the town, you probably won’t even want to leave the property. Palmer House is so much more than just a standard “hotel,” with so many amenities to enhance your stay, you’ll make the most out of your time in town and you’ll never be bored. Upon check-in, you’ll get a map of the grounds. You’ll notice there are not just one but two golf courses on the property. There’s also a shuffleboard and tennis court. In the rear, you’ll find a nature trail that leads to a small pond, and guess what? You can even go fishing here! (gear for sports and fishing is also complimentary, with the exception of fish bait).
Surrounded by the Green Mountains 
Fishing pond along the nature trail at Palmer House
Palmer House is a resort for all four seasons. You don’t have to worry about the timing the perfect stay, any time of the year is great to enjoy at Palmer House. It’s not far off from Stratton, Bromley, and Killington, which are popular mountain resorts for you to enjoy a day of winter sports. Warm up afterwards at the sauna or sit around the fireplace on site at Palmer House. Visiting during the warmer months? Heat up the grill or have a picnic on the grass.
You can also enjoy swimming at either of two swimming pools on site (outdoor pool opens up after Memorial Day). Staying in Manchester during in the autumn months? Hang around near the chalet to take in stunning mountain views and fiery fall foliage.
Palmer House is great for a couple’s getaway, a family trip, or even just a weekend with friends.
Book a room today: http://www.palmerhouse.com
Coming Soon …
Breakfast is complimentary with each booking, and available just behind the lobby.** Coffee is also served all day, though there will be a coffee maker available in your room as well, along with some snacks. While the resort is near lots of dining options, (including the popular Ye Old Tavern which is adjacent to the property), guests will soon get to enjoy one of the latest features of the 2020 renovation. On June 1, Palmer House will open up their new on-site restaurant and bar, Clove + Maple.
Just a 10 minute walk from Downtown Manchester …
The Palmer House is conveniently located near most Manchester’s popular shops, restaurants and attractions. Each room is provided with a full guide of ALL the best restaurants, shops and activities you can find in and around town. When you’re ready to explore, you can leave your car at the property (free guest parking available) and in just 10 minutes, you’re at the center of town! Most of the town center is walkable, but even for the more distant attractions, the drive is only 15 minutes or less!
Top sights in Manchester including distance away from Palmer House:
- Mount Equinox Skyline Drive (6.0 mi)
- Hildene, the Lincoln Family Home (3.5 mi)
- Southern Vermont Arts Center (2.4 mi)
- Manchester Designer Outlets (0.7 mi)
Stay tuned my full guide on Manchester, VT, coming soon!
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For more on travel to Vermont: https://mybucketlistjourneys.blog/category/united-states/vermont/
*Added bonus: Choice Privilege members can now use and redeem their membership benefits with The Palmer House. For more information, visit: http://www.choicehotels.com
**due to Covid-19, breakfast is currently just grab and go pre-packaged items
