In our December issue of Island Insights, we have compiled a list of some of the great events happening here in Grand Isle County. 

Our 3rd Annual Holiday Hoopla is back! You’re invited to join us for a festive event to show our gratitude to our wonderful clients and supporters. We will have a wreath giveaway, polaroid pictures with Santa, and a hot cocoa & cookie bar by Let’s Pretend Catering. The celebration is on Saturday, December 2nd from 10 am to 1 pm. The wreaths are first come, first serve, so arrive early! Learn more about the event and don’t forget to RSVP. See you there!

 

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Festive Events Happening In The Champlain Islands

Step into the holiday season with these remarkable local events—an opportunity to celebrate and actively uplift our community. As we immerse ourselves in the festivities, let's rally behind our local businesses, farmers, and artisans. Embrace the ethos of shopping small and sustaining our community's economy by keeping our dollars close to home. Learn more about these joyful traditions in the Lake Champlain Islands of Vermont.

 

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Featured Listings

149 Williams Road, Colchester, VT 05446

List Price: $499,000

64 Jones Meadow Drive, Cambridge, VT 05444

List Price; $350,000

 

Subscribe to Island Insights, Coldwell Banker Islands Realty's monthly email newsletter, to see more hidden homes and learn about the Vermont real estate market.

 

 

Looking for the best places to eat in the Lake Champlain Islands? You’ve come to the right place! This local Vermont guide will direct you to the best eats in the area. 

1. Wally’s Place Bagel and Deli 

Wally's Place has delicious bagels, homemade bread, sandwiches, and sweet treats! Wally's has been South Hero's local bagel shop since 2008 and is conveniently located at Community Lane in South Hero. 

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2. Seb’s Snack Bar

Locally owned and operated this iconic South Hero staple is open daily from 11am to 6pm during the months of May through October. Indulge in fried food in the heart of the South Hero village and don’t forget to grab a creemee post lunch. 

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3. Hero’s Welcome General Store

Head to Hero’s Welcome for the best sandwiches in the Champlain Islands! Enjoy your lunch outside while taking in the views of Lake Champlain and the Green Mountains in the distance. This spot is located right in the North Hero Village on City Bay. 

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4. Steamship Pier Bar and Barbecue

Sit down for lunch on the shores of Lake Champlain at the pier bar located at the North hero Inn and Restaurant. Their lobster roll and BBQ options are some of the best in town. 

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5. Bravo Zulu Lakeside Bar

Bravo Zulu is the most recent addition to the Lake Champlain Islands. This eatery located at Shore Acres Inn and Restaurant. From sandwiches, salads, to larger plates their large menu will be sure to have something for everyone.  

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6. The Hive Cafe

Check out the Hive Cafe for salads, grilled sandwiches, burgers and more! It is located at Allenholm on South Street and is open from 11am-6pm during the summer months. Just note the cafe is closed on Wednesdays!

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7. Keeler’s Bay Variety 

Keeler’s Bay Variety Store and Liquor Store in South Hero has great to-go options if you’re in a hurry. They also have a great deli if you’re looking for a hearty sandwich.

8. Mckees Island Pub & Pizza 

Craving a slice? Mckees in South Hero has you covered. In addition to great pizza, they have an extensive menu with many different Italian options.

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Local eat and drink options are plentiful in the Lake Champlain Islands! Looking to plan your next Island adventure? Read our summer day trip guide. 

 

The Champlain Islands are home to some of the greatest and most unique state parks in Vermont. From day use parks to island camping, these hidden gems are sure to be enjoyed by all ages. The guide below will help you learn about the best parks to visit in the Northwest Lake Champlain region. 

1. Sand Bar State Park 

Sandy beaches, bird watching, and panoramic lake views the Sand Bar State Park is located right on the shores of Lake Champlain’s Inland Sea. This park is open daily and is open from 10am to sunset. This park has 2000 feet of sand beach making it a great spot to swim. Plus, they have kayaks available to rent! 

2. Grand Isle State Park

Grand Isle State Park is Vermont's most visited state park equipped with great camping and even some nature trails! With 4,150 feet of shoreline set up for fishing and swimming, the vast number of available camping sites in the park make it Vermont’s second largest campground.

3. Knight Point State Park

Knight Point State Park is located right by The North Hero Drawbridge on Lake Champlain’s “Gut”. This 54 acre park is strictly day use so snag a picnic table and enjoy lunch by the water or rent out the pavilion if you have a group function!

4. Alburgh Dunes State Park 

Grab a cooler, your trunks, a smile and head on up to the 625 acre paradise known as Alburgh Dunes State Park. This park is a local favorite with one of the longest sandy beaches on Lake Champlain, making the dunes the perfect place to enjoy a day of beach games and swimming.

5. Burton Island State Park 

Hop on the boat and trek out to the beautiful 253 acre Burton Island State Park. Located on Lake Champlain’s Inland Sea, this park makes for a very unique boat camping experience. You can also travel to Burton Island by ferry located in St. Albans, Vermont.

6.  Knight Island State Park

Knight Island State Park is located just around 2 miles from the North Hero Village on Lake Champlain’s Inland Sea and is only accessible by boat. This island getaway will not disappoint. Reserve a lean-to ahead of time, pack up, and treat yourself to a peaceful night out in nature. During the colder months you can walk out on the frozen lake to Knight Island. It is just a 40 minute walk from the North Hero Village!

7. Woods Island State Park 

Woods Island State Park is another great island state park on Lake Champlain’s Inland Sea. When visiting Woods Island prepare for a slightly more rugged camping experience than one might have on Knight Island or Burton Island. This park is known as a “remote area” campground with limited sites. However, it still has much to offer in terms of camping and exploring as long as you are prepared!

Incomparable state parks, close-knit community, and countless outdoor activities make the Lake Champlain Islands region a wonderful place to enjoy year-round or seasonally. Looking for more things to do when visiting? Read about these 10 can’t miss places to see in the Champlain Islands.