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 Manchester, VT is a different kind of Vermont than anywhere else in the state. Home to outlet stores, the pricey/picturesque Equinox, and historic Hildene, there's plenty to see, do, and buy outside of covered-bridge and maple syrup realm. But my favorite spot in town is Northshire Bookstore, the large and lovely independent bookstore that has been a fixture in downtown Manchester for over three decades.

A family business begun in 1976, Northshire has undergone several expansions to accommodate its growing customer base and increasingly comprehensive catalogue of books. Northshire is novel not only because of the breadth of topics--Vermont history, fiction, nature, cooking, sci-fi, you name it--but its depth. Find Vonnegut's complete works, travel writing from China, untranslated graphic novels; you name it, they have it.

The store's children's section upstairs is equally as impressive. With children's best-sellers and some obscurities, as well as craft and hobby books and toys, it's family-friendly without catering to the lowest common denominator.

Northshire added the Spiral Press Cafe a few years ago, serving coffee, baked goods, sandwiches, and local food products; it's a perfect place to rejuvenate for more browsing or for cozying up with a new tome. Unpredictable mountain weather might keep you indoors--but if you're at Northshire you'll be glad it did.