The Southern Vermont Arts Center occupies a handsome campus on the lower slopes of Equinox Mountain, about a kilometre from Manchester Village. The main galleries show rotating exhibitions of contemporary and modern American art, with a particular strength in works by artists with connections to Vermont and New England. The permanent collection includes more than 700 pieces.
Beyond the galleries, the campus is worth visiting for the grounds alone: the sculpture garden on the hillside offers views over the valley, and the walking trails through the surrounding woodland are peaceful in summer. The SVAC also runs a summer performance series with concerts, theatre, and film. Admission to the galleries is modest; the sculpture garden is free.