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Exploring Downtown Manson

With a population of under 2,000, the town of Manson often flies under everyone’s radar. But this quaint and quiet town is home to many hidden gems, delectable eateries, and tasting rooms. It’s charming and chock full of unexpected treasures. Take it from us – you’ll want to spend a day exploring Manson and all it has to offer. Plan a day or two to get out and get to know Manson a little bit this fall. If you’re not sure where to start, here are a few of our favorites spots.

SIP

Rootwood Cider
The cider tasting experience at Rootwood Cider will remind you a lot of wine tasting. You’ll have a blast tasting through the different varietals and blends and picking your favorites. There’s something so refreshing about a crisp, cool cider on a sunny fall afternoon. If you’re anything like us, you’ll have a difficult time leaving without your very growler filled with something delicious!

Radiance Winery
Radiance Winery’s flagship tasting room is located in the rolling hills of Manson, but their new tasting room is right in the heart of downtown Manson and is a destination in and of itself. The ambiance is perfect for a relaxing afternoon of wine and conversation. If you’ve got your heart set on wine tasting your way through Manson, we highly recommend adding this stop to your list!

Lake Chelan Brewery
For the beer lovers in your crew, a stop by Lake Chelan Brewery is a must. Try their lineup of impressive brews while you relax on the patio out back. It’s not just the beer they got right, it’s the food too! Treat yourself to an appetizer like the pulled pork poutine or entrees like the jalapeño baked cod or buffalo chicken sliders that are sure to pair perfectly with your new favorite beer for a delightful summer meal.

Ancestry Cellars
This is another winery you don’t want to miss. The tasting room may be small, but the wine is big. Ancestry Cellars began in Woodinville, but the Morin family fits right in here in the Lake Chelan Valley. Sit back and listen to the stories behind each of their wines, named for different family members, and you’ll quickly feel like you’re a part of the family too.

EAT

North Shore Cafe​
North Shore Cafe’s expansive breakfast and lunch menu has something for everyone. Choose from classic breakfast items like eggs benedict, omelets, waffles, or chicken fried steak! For lunch, try their citrus tomato basil soup, wild caught pacific sockeye salmon chowder or their famous North Shore Burger.

Mi Paloma Cocina y Cultura
When you’ve got a craving for Mexican food that you just can’t ignore, head to Mi Paloma for a meal that will surely hit the spot. The portions are generous and each dish is packed with locally sourced ingredients. They even have vegan options for our plant-based friends out there! We recommend the ever-popular brisket tacos (smoked for 16 hours!) paired with a refreshing hibiscus margarita. Order to-go, then eat along the waterfront at Manson Bay Park and take in the late summer sun.

My Buddy’s Place
Epic burgers, great drinks, and a friendly staff make this local gathering place an all-around winner! Inside you’ll find regional beers on tap, shuffleboard, pool and darts and their outdoor patio is famous for their live music and karaoke, making this the perfect place to enjoy a round with friends.

SHOP

Allison’s of Manson​
Allison’s is an institution in Manson, beloved by locals and returning visitors alike. This boutique is the home goods store of your dreams. Allison’s recently found a new home in the Manson Village Center (nestled in with a couple of fantastic wineries for a convenient shopping break!). Although the location may have changed, the magic is just the same. Browse unique home decor, gifts, and seasonal items and do your best not to take the whole store home with you.

Manson Farmer’s Market
Head to the Manson Grange every Wednesday and Saturday morning at 8:30am and stroll through the Manson Farmer’s Market. You’ll find fresh produce, handmade local goods, pastries, and more. Everyone loves a good farmer’s market and Manson’s does not disappoint.

You may be able to tell by now that, while Manson may look small, it’s full of great local shops and eateries and big on personality. A day spent exploring the ins and outs and hidden treasures of Manson is a day well spent in our book. We hope you fall in love with it the way we have. Cheers!

 

Posted September 29, 2020