Nothing says Vermont summer quite like a morning spent filling a bucket with fresh berries. From the Champlain Islands to the foothills of the Green Mountains, local farms are bursting with blueberries, raspberries, strawberries, and more during peak season.

Whether you're planning a family outing, looking for the freshest fruit, or simply want an excuse to spend a few hours outdoors, these Northwest Vermont farms are well worth the trip.

Island Blueberries | Grand Isle, VT

Tucked away in the Champlain Islands, Island Blueberries is a summertime favorite for locals and visitors alike. The farm grows four varieties of flavorful, pesticide-free blueberries, giving pickers plenty to choose from throughout the season. It's a peaceful stop where you can enjoy beautiful island scenery while gathering fresh berries straight from the bush.

Before you go: Check their Facebook page for current picking conditions, hours, and weather updates.

Isham Family Farm | Williston, VT

With roots dating back to 1871, Isham Family Farm blends Vermont history with a memorable summer outing. Pick your own blueberries and raspberries, then stick around to explore the hiking trails, browse local maple products and seasonal produce, or catch one of the farm's many events. And if you're visiting during berry season, don't leave without trying one of their blueberry milkshakes.

Before you go: Visit their Facebook page for daily updates and their website for hours, events, and more information.

Adam's Berry Farm | Charlotte, VT

Just a short drive from Burlington, Adam's Berry Farm is known for its organic blueberries, colorful pick-your-own flowers, and charming farmstand. After filling your basket, browse handmade jams, local berries, and fresh-cut bouquets to take a little piece of summer home with you.

Before you go: Visit their Facebook page for seasonal updates and their website for current picking information.

Sam Mazza's Farm | Colchester, VT

A longtime local favorite, Sam Mazza's Farm pairs berry picking with one of the area's best farm markets. Along with pick-your-own blueberries, you'll find fresh produce, baked goods, local products, and a calendar full of seasonal events. 

Before you go: Visit their website for hours, berry availability, and upcoming events.

Willow Hill Farm | Milton, VT

If you're hoping to pick more than just blueberries, Willow Hill Farm is the place to go. Depending on the season, visitors can gather organic strawberries, blueberries, blackberries, and currants. It's an easy addition to any Vermont summer bucket list, especially for berry lovers who enjoy a little variety.

Before you go: Visit their website for current picking conditions and seasonal updates.

Owl's Head Blueberry Farm | Richmond, VT

Nestled in the foothills of Richmond, Owl's Head Blueberry Farm is home to more than 3,000 blueberry bushes. One of its most unique traditions is the popular “Music While You Pick” series on Tuesdays and Thursdays, where live music turns an afternoon of berry picking into a relaxing summer event. Bring a picnic blanket and make an evening of it.

Before you go: Check their Facebook page for live updates and visit their website for more information about the farm and concert schedule.

Covered Bridge Blueberry Farm | Underhill, VT

Covered Bridge Blueberry Farm offers both pre-picked and pick-your-own blueberries, making it easy to stop whether you're looking for a quick visit or a leisurely afternoon. Throughout the season, the farm also hosts events featuring live music, yoga, food trucks, crafts, and other family-friendly activities that make every visit a little different.

Before you go: Visit their website for hours, upcoming events, and the latest picking information.

Make the Most of Berry Season

Berry picking is one of the best ways to enjoy a Vermont summer. Whether you're exploring the Champlain Islands, spending the day with family, or discovering a new favorite farm, each of these local spots offers a chance to slow down, enjoy the outdoors, and support the hardworking farms that help make our region so special.

Living and working in Northwest Vermont means we're always looking for ways to enjoy everything this area has to offer. We hope this guide helps you make the most of berry season and discover a few new favorite places along the way.

 

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.