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.

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. 

 

Vermont has been a cornerstone of apple production for generations, making fall apple picking a must-do for both locals and visitors. Many of the state’s favorite orchards are family-owned, keeping decades of apple-growing tradition alive. Here’s a look at some of the most cherished orchards in Northwest Vermont, each with its own unique charm and experience. Explore these local gems below!

Allenholm Farm | South Hero, VT
Located on South Street in South Hero, Vermont, Allenholm Farm has been a cherished part of the community since 1870. The Allen family has managed the farm for seven generations, making it the oldest commercial apple orchard still operating in Vermont, according to the South Hero Land Trust. Visitors can enjoy pick-your-own apples, delicious desserts like Papa Ray’s Pies, and the best maple creemees around.

Adams Apple Orchard | Williston, VT
Adams Apple Orchard in Williston, Vermont, is known for its extensive selection of apple varieties and its friendly, down-to-earth vibe. The orchard offers pick-your-own apples as well as a farm market filled with fresh cider, doughnuts, baked goods, and local produce. Adams Apple Orchard is a beloved spot for both locals and visitors, offering a quintessential Vermont apple-picking experience.

Chapin Orchard | Essex Junction, VT
Located in Essex Junction, Vermont, Chapin Orchard is a family-owned orchard that has been a community favorite for decades. The orchard offers pick-your-own apples, along with freshly pressed apple cider, cider doughnuts, and other seasonal treats. With its scenic location and friendly atmosphere, Chapin Orchard is a great place to enjoy the beauty of Vermont in the fall.

Hackett's Orchard | South Hero, VT
Family-owned since 1967, Hackett's Orchard  in South Hero spans 50 acres of farmland and offers a wide range of apple varieties with 47 in total! In September, you can pick your own apples, or simply stop by the farm market for fresh cider doughnuts, apple cider, cider slush, and apple crisp. Be sure to visit for pumpkins and other sweet treats, too.

Hall’s Orchard | Isle La Motte, VT
Hall’s Orchard is a historic gem located in Isle La Motte, Vermont. The Hall family has owned the property since the late 1700s and the orchard since 1828. The farmhouse, made from stone quarried on the island, is a testament to the region’s rich history, featuring ancient coral reef fossils. Allen Hall, the current owner-operator, grows apples and pears, offering pick-your-own options, fresh cider, pears, maple syrup, pumpkins, and honey.

Shelburne Orchards | Shelburne, VT
Shelburne Orchards, located in the picturesque town of Shelburne, Vermont, is a must-visit for apple enthusiasts. The orchard is renowned for its commitment to sustainable farming practices and its breathtaking views of Lake Champlain. In addition to pick-your-own apples, Shelburne Orchards offers fresh-pressed apple cider, cider doughnuts, and a variety of apple products. The orchard’s distillery even produces an apple brandy that’s worth a taste!

Yates Family Orchard | Hinesburg, VT
Nestled in the rolling hills of Hinesburg, Vermont, Yates Family Orchard is a family-friendly destination with a welcoming atmosphere. The orchard offers a variety of apple types, all grown with care. Visitors can enjoy pick-your-own apples, and the orchard’s farm stand is stocked with fresh produce, local honey, and homemade preserves. It’s a perfect spot for a peaceful fall outing with loved ones.

From the scenic Lake Champlain Islands to the picturesque hills of Chittenden County, northwest Vermont’s apple orchards are a perfect blend of history, community, and farm-fresh apples. Whether you’re a local or a visitor, these orchards provide the perfect setting for enjoying the fall season in Vermont.

Living in Northwest Vermont, we’re incredibly lucky to have some of the most stunning sunset views practically in our own backyard. Here are our top five favorite spots to catch those breathtaking Vermont sunsets:

1. Overlook Park | South Burlington
 A perfect stop on your way home, Overlook Park offers sweeping views of Lake Champlain and the Adirondacks. With plenty of parking and easy access, it’s a favorite spot for locals to pause and soak in the scenery as the sun sets.

2. Island Line Trail | Colchester & South Hero
For a truly epic experience, walk or bike the Island Line Trail. With parking access points in both Colchester and South Hero, it’s an easy starting point no matter where you're coming from. One side of the trail offers sweeping views of the Adirondacks and Lake Champlain glowing with sunset colors, while the other side features the Green Mountains lit up with the golden hour light. 

3. Burlington Waterfront | Burlington
Grab a classic Vermont creemee from one of the many nearby ice cream stands, then stroll along the lively Burlington Waterfront. The mix of vibrant town energy and peaceful lake views makes for a very memorable sunset.

4. Isle La Motte Beach | Isle La Motte
If you want a quieter, more relaxed sunset experience, Isle La Motte Beach, located on the west shore of the island across from St. Anne’s Shrine, is the spot. Pack a picnic, enjoy a swim, or just unwind in this peaceful small-town setting as the sun goes down.

5. Mount Philo State Park | Charlotte
For an elevated perspective, head to Mount Philo State Park. You can drive or hike to the summit to take in expansive views of the lake and surrounding mountains. The panoramic sunset vistas here are truly worth the effort!

 

6. Shelburne Farms | Shelburne
Walk the beautiful grounds, take in views of the lake, rolling hills, and the historic architecture. Or, head to the Inn for a drink on the porch and watch the sun dip below the Adirondacks for a truly serene evening.

Whether you’re working out to catch the views or simply stopping to soak it in after a long day, Vermont offers amazing scenery and nature close to home, one of the best parts about living here.
 

Berry picking is a fun and rewarding way to stay active, enjoy the outdoors, and support local farms here in Vermont. With strawberries, blueberries, raspberries, almost in season, it's the perfect time to plan to head out for some fresh-picked fruit this summer. Farms throughout the Champlain Valley offer pick-your-own berry experiences—an ideal activity as the summer weather warms up. Here are a few local spots in Northwest Vermont to visit for the freshest berries around:

Island Blueberries, Grand Isle, VT

Island Blueberries offers a wide variety of pick-your-own blueberries that are fresh, flavorful, and grown without pesticides. Located in the Champlain Islands, this family-friendly farm is open Wednesday through Saturday from 9 AM to 5 PM, weather permitting—perfect for a sunny summer outing.

Learn More

Isham Family Farm, Williston, VT

Established in 1871, Isham Family Farm is a historic property offering pick-your-own blueberries and raspberries, scenic hiking trails, and a rich glimpse into Vermont farm life. In addition to berry picking, the farm hosts a variety of events—from weddings to live theater performances—and offers local maple products and seasonal produce. It’s a beautiful spot to enjoy a summer day and support a multi-generational working farm. Open weekly from 9 AM to 5 PM.

Learn More

Adam’s Berry Farm, Charlotte, VT

Adam’s Berry Farm offers pick-your-own organic blueberries, raspberries, and flowers—just 20 minutes from Burlington. In addition to the fields, their charming farmstand features a selection of local berries, handcrafted jams, and fresh bouquets. They are open daily from 9 AM to 6 PM.

Learn More

Sam Mazza's Farm Market, Colchester, VT

Family-owned and run, Sam Mazza’s Farm Market offers pick-your-own strawberries and blueberries. Sam Mazza’s Farm hosts local festivals and employs local high school students to help support the community. Open from 7 am - 7 pm Saturday to Monday and 7 am - 6 pm Sunday. 

Learn More

Willow Hill Farm, Milton, VT

Willow Hill Farm is open for picking organic strawberries, blueberries, blackberries, and currants. Best known for their blueberries, Willow Hill is a great farm to put on your berry picking bucket list this summer! The farm is open from 9 am - 4 pm Sunday to Tuesday. Check out their website for more details.

Learn More

R&J Blueberries and Grapes, Alburgh, VT 

R&J Blueberries and Grapes offers pick-your-own blueberries starting in early July. In addition to fresh berries, they sell apples, pears, and free-range eggs—all grown with care and sustainability in mind. The farm is partially solar-powered, reflecting their commitment to the environment. Open daily from dawn to dusk, it's a great spot for a relaxed, self-paced visit.

Learn More

Enjoy the outdoors, fresh fruit, and unforgettable memories with berry picking in Vermont. Each of these farms offers more than just berries—they tell a story of Vermont’s agricultural heritage and invite you to slow down, connect with nature, and savor the simple joys of summer.