Burlington, Vermont – Majestic Fall Scenery

Autumn is knocking at our door and with that comes bright, beautiful colors of the season. So over the next month I will be highlighting New England locals that seem to envelop the harvest spirit. Burlington, Vermont is one such place and has an abundance of fall induced activities to get you in the Autumnal spirit. Burlington is located in western Vermont, right on the shore of Lake Champlain. The Adirondacks of NY are on the opposite side of the grand lake. This area is also known as Lake Champlain Valley.

There are an abundance of indoor and outdoor activities to choose from in Burlington. Let’s start with the most popular Fall activity, which is taking in the beautiful fall foliage. There is a name given to those who partake in this activity – “leaf-peepers.” If you are a “leaf-peeper” then you won’t want to miss the natural and spectacular views of Lake Champlain and the Green Mountains. Drive through the long windy roads and explore the covered bridges that are nestled in the mountains, all while taking in the yellow, orange and red leaves. Want to get in some exercise while on vacation? Instead of driving, take a hike or cycle through the mountains, kayak, sail or fish on Lake Champlain. The trails are in excellent condition and quite inviting.

A mere seven miles south of Burlington is the famed Shelburne Museum. It is home to almost 200,000 pieces of American folk art and crafts. Not only is the museum filled with these arts and crafts but other structures acquired by the museum owner to house her art, including a jail and a 220 foot long steam ship. Also in Shelburne is a 1,400-acre working farm and National Historic Landmark which welcomes visitors. The Inn at Shelburne Farms offers accommodations and breakfast and dinner by reservation. Tours are also available.

If you are not sure when to plan your trip, try to plan it during the annual Giant Pumpkin Regatta & Festival. During this festival, different teams of people race in giant hollowed out pumpkins on Lake Champlain. yes, that is correct, giant hollowed out pumpkins. The family friendly festival includes local food vendors, craft vendors, kids’ activities, pie eating contests, and a pet costume contest. The event was even spoofed on Saturday Night Live!

While in Burlington, check out the historic Church Street Marketplace. There is an assortment of shops, boutiques, pubs, cafes, and restaurants. It is not to be missed as an integral part of Burlington’s charm!

OK, so all that movement has made you thirsty, take in a brew tour with Burlington Brew Tours LLC. It is an “interactive beer excursion,” which takes you to Magic Hat, Switchback Brewery, Vermont Pub and Brewery and American Flatbread. Tour includes lunch and 18-23 samples of beer.

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