Chittenden County Travel Guide

Discover the best places to visit, food and drink scene, where to stay, local culture and customs, safety and health, transportation options, and nearby destinations for Chittenden County.


Introduction to Chittenden County

Located in Northwest Vermont, Chittenden County is one of the most popular tourist destinations in the state. Surrounded by stunning natural scenery, this county is home to several bustling cities, charming small towns, and a plethora of outdoor activities. Visitors to Chittenden County can explore historic landmarks, indulge in local cuisine, hike through the Green Mountains, or simply relax and take in the breathtaking views.

List of Places to Visit in Chittenden County

Culturally Important Attractions: Museums and Historical Places

  • Shelburne Museum: This museum features a vast collection of 19th-century American art, architecture, and design displayed across 45 acres of gardens, historic buildings, and galleries.
  • Ethan Allen Homestead Museum: Explore the life and legacy of Ethan Allen, one of Vermont’s most influential historical figures in this preserved home.
  • University of Vermont Morgan Horse Farm: Learn about the history, breeding, and care of the Morgan horse breed in a picturesque setting.

Natural Attractions of Chittenden County: Outdoor Adventures and Scenic Views

  • Mount Philo State Park: With a magnificent view of the Champlain Valley and the Adirondack Mountains, Mount Philo is a popular destination for hiking and picnicking.
  • Green Mountain Audubon Center: This nature sanctuary is home to diverse bird species, as well as several hiking trails and educational programs.
  • Waterfront Park: Vibrant Waterfront Park, located in the city center of Burlington, offers picturesque views of Lake Champlain and a variety of recreational opportunities.

Hiking/Biking Routes of Chittenden County

  • Burlington Bike Path: This 7.5-mile path runs along the Champlain waterfront, offering picturesque views of the Adirondacks and the lake.
  • The Long Trail: Vermont’s Long Trail, America’s oldest long-distance hiking trail, runs through the Green Mountains and over several peaks in Chittenden County.
  • Camel’s Hump State Park: The challenging and rewarding Camel’s Hump Trail offers impressive summit views.

Best Things to Do in Chittenden County: Activities and Tours

  • Lake Champlain sunset cruise: Take a cruise on Lake Champlain for picturesque sunset views.
  • Shelburne Farms tour: Visit this working farm, stately home, and 1,400-acre nonprofit organization
  • Vermont Brewery Tour: Take a tour of some of Vermont’s world-renowned breweries

Week-Long Itinerary for Chittenden County

Day Activity
Day 1 Arrive in Burlington and explore downtown
Day 2 Visit Shelburne Museum and Farms
Day 3 Hike Camel’s Hump, enjoying the panoramic views from the top
Day 4 Take a sunset cruise on Lake Champlain
Day 5 Explore the University of Vermont Morgan Horse Farm
Day 6 Take a Vermont Brewery Tour
Day 7 Depart Chittenden County

Food and Drink Scene of Chittenden County

Must-Try Dishes

  • Maple Creemee: A local specialty, a soft-serve ice cream made with maple syrup.
  • Vermont Cheddar Cheese Plate: Sample some Vermont Cheddar, a classic cheese from the state.
  • Ben & Jerry’s ice cream: Indulge in the famous ice cream made in Vermont.

Local Beverages

  • Vermont Cider: This popular alcoholic beverage is made by fermenting Vermont apples
  • Craft beer: Vermont is famous for its craft beer, with breweries such as Switchback, Magic Hat, and Zero Gravity in Chittenden County.

Where to Stay in Chittenden County: Hotels, Hostels, and Guesthouses

  • Hilton Burlington Lake Champlain: Located in the heart of Burlington, the 258-room hotel offers magnificent views of Lake Champlain and the Adirondack Mountains.
  • The Burlington Hostel: This hostel offers affordable accommodation in the heart of Burlington and is a great place to meet other travelers.
  • The Essex: A luxurious resort located on the outskirts of Essex, perfect for a relaxing escape.

What to Buy in Chittenden County: Souvenirs and Local Products to Bring Home

  • Vermont Maple Syrup: Made from the state’s famous maple trees, this syrup is a popular souvenir and ingredient.
  • Lake Champlain Chocolates: This local chocolatier crafts artisanal chocolates and other confections.
  • Farm-fresh products: Pick up some Vermont artisanal cheese or a crate of locally grown apples to enjoy at home.

Local Culture and Customs of Chittenden County

Vermont is known for its unique set of customs and traditions. Here are some notable aspects of local culture and customs in Chittenden County:

  • Vermonters are known for their focus on sustainability and organic living.
  • There is a tradition of supporting small, local businesses and products, so don’t be surprised to find locally made products in stores.
  • Vermont is a friendly place where people are often open to chatting and sharing stories.

Best Time to Visit Chittenden County

The best time to visit Chittenden County is during the fall season, when the leaves on the trees turn vibrant shades of red and gold. The weather is mild, and there are many outdoor festivals and events to attend.

Do’s and Don’ts of Chittenden County

Do:

  • Visit the local parks and natural areas.
  • Try some local cuisine, like maple syrup or Ben & Jerry’s ice cream.
  • Support the local economy by purchasing locally made products.

Don’t:

  • Litter or damage the natural environment.
  • Be overly loud or disruptive in residential areas.
  • Ignore the small-town charm of the area.

Safety and Health

Safety in Chittenden County

Chittenden County is a safe destination for travelers. However, it is always a good idea to take basic safety precautions just as you would when traveling to any new location.

Health in Chittenden County

Chittenden County has several excellent hospitals and medical facilities. It is also important to take precautions against tick-borne illnesses, as they are common in Vermont.

Getting to Chittenden County: Transportation Options and Logistics

Airports Near Chittenden County

The Burlington International Airport serves Chittenden County and has connections to several major cities in the United States.

Bus Stations Near Chittenden County

Greyhound Lines operates bus services to Burlington from several cities in New England and Canada.

Other Options

The Amtrak Vermonter train service stops in Essex Junction, located in Chittenden County. Calm Air provides air service to the isolated community of Baker Lake in Nunavut Canada.

How to Get Around in Chittenden County

The best way to get around Chittenden County is by car; it gives travelers the freedom to explore the area at their own pace. Bike rentals or using Uber/Lyft can be other options for getting around.

Where to Go Next from Chittenden County: Nearby Destinations and Excursions

  • Montpelier: Located in Central Vermont, this charming small town is the state capital and is known for its historic buildings, picturesque scenery, and thriving arts scene.
  • Stowe: This quaint town is located in the heart of the Green Mountains and is known for its natural beauty, outdoor activities, and skiing.
  • Lake Placid: Located in the Adirondacks, the site of the 1980 Winter Olympics offers beautiful scenery and recreational opportunities, with year-round exploration.

Conclusion

Chittenden County offers a perfect combination of natural beauty, outdoor recreation, and cultural attractions. With something to offer for visitors of all ages and interests, this county is a must-visit destination for anyone traveling to Vermont.



    Colchester
    Essex
    South Burlington
    Winooski