So my family and I are going to Vermont for 3 days in October, during the week (so we can get reservations and avoid some of the other tourists).

Around the 17th or 18th.

We want to see

a) covered bridges,

b) the foliage,

c) pretty towns.

We plan on driving around every day, but coming back to one central location.

If we want to go to such places as Grafton, Woodstock and Bennington Vermont, which would make more sense, and which is prettier...

staying in Manchester? Or staying in Quechee which is near Woodstock?

Thanks,

Mylesaway

Since you're coming later in October, I would recommend staying in Southern VT. Manchester, Arlington, Bennington area. This area has many covered bridges.
Manchester is a "tourist" town, but should be fairly quiet during the week. Lots of outlet shopping, restaurants, fancy second homes to drive around and gawk at etc. Bennington is a more "working" town, with lots of great history. The Bennington Museum is nice, as is a stroll around Old Bennington.
Hope this helps!

If you get a Vermont Atlas and Gazetteer published by Delorme, all the covered bridges are listed. The 17th is late for good foliage (if it's a typical year) in the northern half of VT. Still, Quechee should be included on a day trip with a stop at Simon Pierce because the building is so interesting (they generate their own hydro-electric power) and people will recommend driving thru Woodstock (very upscale tourist town). You can use the atlas to find the back roads the other tourists don't know about.

I am frequently in the Bennington .. Manchester area ... and Manchester is as was previously posted a tourist .. is really an outlet town ... but one I really enjoy .. Dorset,Vt .. not very far is truly a beautiful little town with a lovely inns and not far from there is Weston, VT .. you can visit the Vermont Country Store which is really fun .. lots of nostalgia http://www.vermontcountrystore.com//...mType=CATEGORY .. and also you are not very far from Williamstown, MA .. with the Clark Institute .. lots to see in and around those area .. It is true Woodstock is a lovely little town and Simon Pierce is a good take in as well .. but I think you could do it all if you want and are willing to do a little driving .. I would probably pick a central location .. perhaps Manchester and go from there ... all are really doable and would make for great day trips ... It is a lovely .. lovely area ..

Thanks.

As always...no better travel advice than what I get from fellow Fodorites!!

You're all great. I'm going for Manchester.

Mylesaway