There's no shortage of ways to spend a summer day in Vermont, but if you're looking to experience the state like a local and embrace the simple pleasures that make summer here so special. Whether you're planning weekend adventures, creating a seasonal bucket list, or looking for inspiration for visitors, here are 10 Vermont summer experiences worth adding to your calendar.

1. Cool Off at a Vermont Swimming Hole

No Vermont summer is complete without a trip to a swimming hole. While there are countless spots throughout the state, Warren Falls remains one of our favorites. Located in the Mad River Valley, this series of waterfalls, pools, and natural rock formations is the perfect place to cool off on a hot day. Just be sure to arrive early on weekends, as locals know this spot well.

2. Bike the Island Line Trail

One of Vermont's most iconic summer experiences, the Island Line Trail offers 14 miles of scenic waterfront riding along the shores of Lake Champlain, with stunning views of both the Adirondack and Green Mountains. The trail connects Burlington to the Lake Champlain Islands and is perfect for biking, walking, running, or rollerblading. The highlight is the famous causeway that stretches across the lake, where riders can hop aboard the seasonal bike ferry to complete the journey. 

3. Attend an Outdoor Summer Concert

There's something magical about live music on a warm Vermont evening. The Shelburne Museum Concert Series brings nationally recognized artists to one of the state's most beautiful outdoor venues. Bring a blanket, gather friends, and enjoy a summer night surrounded by historic buildings and mountain views. For a more laid-back local experience, Snow Farm Vineyard in South Hero hosts a free summer concert series featuring regional musicians, vineyard views, and plenty of room to spread out with a picnic blanket.

4. Visit Your Local Farmers Market

Summer in Vermont means fresh produce, homemade pastries, local flowers, artisan goods, and community gathering spaces. Whether you're visiting the Champlain Islands Farmers Market, the Burlington Farmers Market, or a smaller market in the town closest to you, spending a Saturday morning browsing local vendors is a Vermont tradition. You might even leave with fresh vegetables, a bouquet of flowers, maple treats, and a few new friends.

5. Watch the Sunrise from the Green Mountains

Few experiences capture the beauty of a Vermont summer quite like watching the sun rise over the Green Mountains. Whether you choose an easy climb like Mount Philo or tackle a more challenging hike such as Camel's Hump, Mount Mansfield, or Hunger Mountain, you'll be rewarded with sweeping views and a peaceful start to the day. Pack a thermos of coffee, arrive before dawn, and take in the quiet beauty as the first light spreads across the valleys, it's a quintessential Vermont experience that never gets old.

6. Take an Evening Sail on Lake Champlain

Few summer evenings are better than being out on the water. A sunset sail aboard the Whistling Man Schooner in Burlington offers a peaceful way to experience Lake Champlain while taking in views of the Adirondacks and Green Mountains. Whether you're celebrating a special occasion or simply looking for a memorable evening, it's one of Vermont's most beautiful summer experiences.

7. Explore the Lake Champlain Islands

Summer is the perfect time to spend a day traveling through The Champlain Islands. Drive scenic back roads, stop at local farm stands, grab lunch by the water, browse local shops, or simply enjoy the slower pace that island life offers. The Islands remain one of Vermont's hidden gems and one of the best places to experience Vermont's lakefront lifestyle.

8. Pick Your Own Berries

From strawberries in June to blueberries and raspberries later in the summer, Vermont's pick-your-own farms offer a classic seasonal experience. It's a great activity for families, couples, or anyone looking to spend a few hours outdoors while bringing home something delicious. Plus, there's nothing quite like fresh-picked berries in a homemade pie or on top of vanilla ice cream.

9. Enjoy Dinner by Lake Champlain

Summer dining in Vermont is all about enjoying the outdoors. Grab dinner from a local food truck, such as Farmers & Foragers in downtown Burlington, or head north to Shore Acres Inn & Restaurant for a classic lakeside dining experience. Whether you're enjoying a casual meal on a patio or a special dinner overlooking the water, dining outdoors is one of the best ways to soak up Vermont's short but beautiful summer season.

10. Camp Under the Stars at a Vermont State Park

Few summer experiences feel more quintessentially Vermont than a weekend spent camping at one of the state's beautiful parks. From lakeside campsites to mountain views and forested trails, Vermont's state parks offer the perfect opportunity to unplug, slow down, and reconnect with nature. Whether you're pitching a tent at Button Bay State Park along the shores of Lake Champlain, exploring the trails at Little River State Park, or enjoying mountain views from Smugglers' Notch State Park, camping is one of the best ways to experience Vermont's natural beauty and create lasting summer memories.

 

Summer in Vermont is more than a season, it's a way of life. From afternoons on Lake Champlain to scenic hikes, farmers markets, and small-town gatherings, these are the experiences that make people fall in love with Vermont year after year. So grab your bucket list and make the most of every sunny day while it lasts.

As warmer weather arrives in Northwest Vermont, there’s nothing better than dining by the water. From lakefront patios and casual food trucks to historic inns and sunset views, the region is home to some of the best waterfront restaurants in Vermont. Whether you’re local or visiting for the season, this curated guide highlights scenic dining spots on Lake Champlain to enjoy this summer.

The Sand Bar, Bar & Grill  | South Hero, VT
Located right over the causeway as you enter South Hero, The Sand Bar offers lakefront views, elevated comfort food, seafood, burgers, and a lively summer atmosphere. It’s a perfect first stop when heading into the Lake Champlain Islands.

Spot on the Dock | Burlington, VT
A Burlington waterfront staple, the Spot on the Dock offers prime seating right on Lake Champlain. Enjoy seafood classics, creative cocktails, and a relaxed lakeside atmosphere from the bar, deck, or lounge-style seating.

The North Hero House Inn & Restaurant & Pier Bar | North Hero, VT
Perched along the shores of City Bay, The North Hero House offers classic lakeside charm with beautiful views of Lake Champlain. Dine in the elegant restaurant, enjoy a casual drink at the Pier Bar, or arrive by boat for the ultimate summer experience.

The Inn at Shelburne Farms | Shelburne, VT
Set within the iconic Shelburne Farms property, The Inn offers a truly special dining experience with farm-to-table fare and sweeping Lake Champlain views. Guests can enjoy breakfast and dinner in a historic setting surrounded by Vermont’s natural beauty.

Shore Acres Inn & Restaurant / Bravo Zulu Lakeside Bar | North Hero, VT
Set on the shores of Lake Champlain, Shore Acres Inn & Restaurant offers fine dining with beautiful views of the lake and Mount Mansfield. For a more relaxed experience, Bravo Zulu Lakeside Bar offers lake views, lawn games, and a casual summer atmosphere.

 

Splash at the Boathouse | Burlington, VT
Located along Burlington’s waterfront, Splash at the Boathouse offers laid-back lakeside dining with beautiful views of Lake Champlain. Known for its casual atmosphere, outdoor seating, and summer-friendly menu, it’s a go-to spot for enjoying drinks, seafood favorites, and sunsets by the water.

Bayside Pavilion | St. Albans, VT
Located near Saint Albans Bay Marina, Bayside Pavilion offers year-round dining with beautiful views of Lake Champlain. With a welcoming atmosphere, great food, and well-crafted drinks, it’s a convenient stop after a day on the water.

The Rest Stop | South Hero, VT
Located in the village of South Hero, The Rest Stop is a seasonal food truck and bar from the owners of Folino’s Pizza. Overlooking Keeler Bay and the marina, this casual outdoor spot serves lobster rolls, chicken sandwiches, local draft beer, and summer favorites by the water.

Shanty on the Shore | Burlington, VT
Located along Burlington’s waterfront, Shanty on the Shore offers sweeping views of the harbor and a classic New England seafood experience. This longtime local favorite is known for its laid-back, old-school charm and menu filled with coastal staples—from clam chowder and lobster to fresh seafood dishes—making it a go-to spot for an authentic waterfront meal.

Kraemer & Kin | North Hero, VT
Set in a renovated 1800s farmhouse next to Hero’s Welcome, Kraemer & Kin brings craft beer, taproom eats, and beautiful Lake Champlain views to the heart of North Hero village. Their food offerings change weekly, with weekend specials like wood-fired pizza, so be sure to check their website before visiting.

The Feral Fox & Grill at Lakewood Links | Alburgh, VT
Located on the scenic Lakewood Links Golf Course, The Feral Fox offers a unique lakeside dining experience with views of the fairways and nearby Lake Champlain. The menu features elevated pub fare, craft cocktails, and an expansive outdoor deck. 

From historic inns to casual lakeside patios, these waterfront restaurants offer some of the best ways to soak up summer in Vermont. Whether you’re looking for sunset cocktails, a relaxed lunch by the marina, or a memorable dinner with lake views, these scenic spots are must-visits this season.
 

As the snow melts and the landscape begins to shift, Vermont’s small towns come alive with scenic beauty, local flavor, and a slower pace of life. Whether you're a local looking for a day trip or visiting Vermont for the first time, these charming destinations are the perfect places to explore this spring.

North Hero, Vermont

Located in the Lake Champlain Islands, North Hero is a peaceful lakeside town with the most picturesque village. Start your morning with a pastry and coffee from Hero’s Welcome General Store, a local favorite known for its charm and strong sense of community. Next door, enjoy a craft beer at Kraemer & Kin while taking in views of City Bay and Lake Champlain. If you’re looking to get outside, take a walk through Pelots Point Natural Area and enjoy the quiet beauty of the shoreline. End your day with dinner at North Hero House Inn & Restaurant, a waterfront staple right in the heart of the village.

Charlotte, Vermont

Just 20 minutes south of Burlington, Charlotte offers a perfect blend of natural beauty, farmland, and lake access. Start your day with a hike up Mount Philo State Park, where you’ll be rewarded with sweeping views of Lake Champlain and the Adirondacks. Afterward, grab coffee and a breakfast sandwich from The Old Brick Store and enjoy it down by Charlotte Town Beach, which is especially peaceful in the off-season. On your way out, stop at Philo Ridge Farm for local produce and goods. If you’re visiting in early spring, you may even spot newborn lambs.

Richmond, Vermont

Nestled in the foothills of the Green Mountains, Richmond is full of history, charm, and scenic beauty. Start your visit with a treat from Sweet Simone’s, a local favorite for baked goods and coffee. From there, take a short walk to The Old Round Church, a National Historic Landmark and one of the most unique buildings in Vermont. For lunch, head to Stone Corral Brewery, or spend some time outdoors exploring Huntington Gorge—a beautiful and dramatic natural area just outside of town.

Waitsfield, Vermont

Tucked into the Mad River Valley, Waitsfield blends adventure, relaxation, and classic small-town charm. Start your day with delicious donuts from Twisted Halo Café, then take a stroll through the local shops along Bridge Road and Main Street. For fresh air, head to Lareau Park, where you’ll find a scenic swimming hole, picnic areas, and beautiful mountain views. For a unique experience, unwind with a sauna session and cold plunge at Madbush Falls. End your visit with craft beer and bites at Lawson’s Finest Liquids—a must-stop while you’re in the valley.

Vergennes, Vermont

About 40 minutes south of Burlington, set on Otter Creek, you’ll find Vermont’s smallest city, Vergennes. Start your visit with breakfast at Vergennes Laundry, then take your time exploring the local shops along Main Street. For lunch, stop at 3 Squares Café, or enjoy a cozy dinner at Black Sheep Bistro. Before heading out, take a walk through Vergennes Falls Park to see the rushing falls up close, and consider a stop at Shacksbury Cider for a tasting.

Whether you're savoring local food, exploring the outdoors, or simply enjoying a stroll through a quaint downtown, these towns capture the essence of spring in Vermont.

Looking for more ways to enjoy the season? From scenic hikes to waterfront dining along Lake Champlain, Vermont offers many activities to embrace during mud season.

Mud season is upon us in Vermont. While it may not always get the best reputation, there are still plenty of ways to enjoy this unique time of year. From scenic outings to cozy experiences, here are some of our favorite ways to make the most of this transitional season in the Green Mountain State:

Visit Local Maple Sugarhouses
Experience the magic of the sugaring season by visiting local sugarhouses. Throughout March and into early April, many sugarmakers open their doors to visitors. Learn how maple syrup is made, sample fresh batches, and enjoy classic treats like maple donuts and even maple hot dogs.

Spring Skiing in the Green Mountains
Ski season may be winding down, but there’s still time to hit the slopes. Warmer temperatures and softer snow make for a fun, laid-back experience. Many Vermont resorts stay open into April—just be sure to check closing dates before heading out.

Visit a Sauna or Spa
Treat yourself to a little relaxation. Warm up at Madbush Falls with its scenic saunas, or unwind at destinations like Topnotch Resort in Stowe, The Essex Resort & Spa, or the Vermont Salt Cave Spa. It’s the perfect way to embrace the slower pace of the season.

Find Live Music
Vermont’s music scene stays lively year-round. Check out venues like Higher Ground or the Flynn for big-name acts, from live music to comedy. Head to local breweries and spots like Two Heroes, Foam Brewers, Radio Bean in Burlington, or Monkey House in Winooski, where you’ll find live shows–many of them free.

Tastings at Local Breweries
Mud season is the perfect excuse to cozy up with a local craft beer. Stop by breweries like Zero Gravity in Burlington or Kraemer & Kin in North Hero to enjoy tastings, great food, and a relaxed atmosphere.

Bike Along the Island Line Trail
As the snow melts, take advantage of clearer paths like the Burlington Greenway. The Island Line Trail offers a scenic ride along Lake Champlain, stretching all the way to the Colchester Causeway. Enjoy incredible views of the lake, Adirondacks, and Green Mountains.

Go Shopping in Burlington
Spend a day exploring Church Street Marketplace or Burlington’s South End. From charming boutiques to local art galleries and specialty shops, there’s plenty to discover while staying far away from the mud!

Go See Baby Farm Animals
Spring in Vermont means farms are full of new life. Visit places like Shelburne Farms or find other local farms across the state to see lambs, chicks, and calves.

Mud season offers a quieter side of Vermont—one that invites you to slow down, explore differently, and appreciate the small, in-between moments. Whether you’re chasing the last turns of ski season or savoring fresh maple syrup, it’s a reminder that every season in Vermont has something special to offer. 

Maple sugaring season has arrived in Vermont, making it the perfect time to visit local sugarhouses, see how maple syrup is made, and enjoy fresh samples straight from the source. In Northern Vermont, some sugarhouses welcome visitors throughout the season, while others open their doors for special events during Maple Open House Weekend. If you’re looking for the best places to experience this iconic Vermont tradition, we’ve rounded up a few must-visit sugarhouses below.

1. Palmer’s Sugarhouse | Shelburne, VT

Palmer’s Sugarhouse welcomes the community every Saturday and Sunday from 9:00 AM to 4:00 PM through April 15. Enjoy sugar on snow, live music, maple boiling demonstrations, and a delicious pancake breakfast served each weekend from 9:00 AM to 1:00 PM. Conveniently located less than 20 minutes from Burlington, it’s a family-friendly stop and a must-visit during Vermont’s sugaring season.

Learn more

2. Shelburne Farms | Shelburne, VT
Experience the sugaring process at Shelburne Farms on March 21–22, 2026. Visitors can tour the sugarhouse, tap a maple tree, sample fresh syrup, explore the sugarbush, learn about local birds, and hear Abenaki storytelling and sugaring traditions. Maple treats, including hot dogs and a pancake breakfast, will be available for a small fee. The event runs Saturday and Sunday from 10:00 AM to 2:00 PM.

Open House Information 

3. Mountainview Mapleworks at the Giroux Family Farm | Richmond, VT

During Vermont Maple Open House Weekend, head to Richmond for a behind-the-scenes look at a family-run sugarhouse. Watch the sap boiling, take a tour, and enjoy fresh syrup samples along with maple hot dogs, maple coffee, maple candy, classic sugar on snow, and other sweet treats. Relax by the bonfire and take in the scent of maple in the air. Hours are Saturday 10:00 AM–5:00 PM and Sunday 11:00 AM–3:00 PM.

Open House Information

4. Gagne Maple | Swanton, VT

Gagne Maple in Swanton will be opening up their sugarhouse on March 21–22 from 10:00 AM to 3:00 PM. Watch maple syrup being made, enjoy tastings, maple donuts, and maple creemees. Browse a wide selection of maple treats to take home. 

Open House Information

5. Browns River Maple | Essex Junction, VT

Visit this family-owned sugarhouse from 10:00 AM to 3:00 PM for tours, syrup samples, and tapping demonstrations. 

Browns River Maple Facebook Page

6. Audubon Vermont/Green Mountain Audubon Center | Huntington, VT

The Green Mountain Audubon Center is home to a bird-friendly sugarbush that has produced pure Vermont maple syrup for over 50 years. During sugaring season, stop in when steam is rising to watch traditional wood-fired boiling, explore the free trails, and pick up syrup at the Visitor Center (open weekdays 8:30 AM–4:00 PM).

Open House Information

7. Palmer Lane Maple | Jericho, VT

Palmer Lane Maple—famous for their year-round creemees—offers a farm store open Wednesday through Saturday with a wide selection of maple treats and products. Be sure to try the maple cream donuts, maple hot dogs, and, of course, a maple creemee.

Learn More

Whether you’re touring a family-run operation, learning about traditional methods, or simply enjoying sugar on snow, these Northern Vermont stops offer a memorable way to experience the state’s most iconic harvest.