Colchester Travel Guide

Discover the best places to visit, things to do, where to stay, what to eat, and how to travel to Colchester, Vermont.


Introduction to Colchester

Located in Chittenden County, in Northwest Vermont, Colchester is a beautiful town in the United States. It is a perfect destination for travelers seeking outdoor adventures, scenic views, and cultural experiences. Colchester offers plenty of options to explore, with its wide range of activities and attractions that cater to different interests.

List of Places to Visit in Colchester

Colchester has many attractions to offer: from historical attractions and museums to natural wonders and scenic trails. Here are some of the best places to visit in Colchester:

Culturally Important Attractions: Museums, and Historical Places

  • Lake Champlain Maritime Museum showcases exhibits that tell the history of the lake and the lives of people who have lived on and near it. The museum houses a collection of artifacts that are centuries old, including boats, fossils, and artworks.

  • Ethan Allen Homestead Museum preserves the memory of Ethan Allen, who led the Green Mountain Boys in the American Revolutionary War. The museum has a collection of artifacts and memorabilia that belonged to Ethan Allen and his family.

  • Vermont Railway Museum is a great place to learn about the history of Vermont’s railroads. The museum has restored trains, artifacts, and exhibits that provide an insight into the state’s railroading history.

Natural Attractions of Colchester: Outdoor Adventures and Scenic Views

  • Bayside Park sits on Lake Champlain and offers scenic views of the lake, the Adirondack Mountains, and Vermont’s Green Mountains. Visitors can enjoy fishing, hiking, picnicking, and boating.

  • Niquette Bay State Park offers hiking, swimming, and picnicking opportunities. The park has a network of trails that lead to scenic overlooks, waterfalls, and hidden coves.

  • Mills Riverside Park provides access to the Winooski River and is a great spot for fishing, kayaking, and canoeing. Visitors can also enjoy picnicking and hiking on the trails.

Hiking/Biking Routes of Colchester

Colchester has many hiking and biking trails that offer stunning views of the mountains, lakes, and forests. Here are some of the best hiking/biking routes in Colchester:

  • Colchester Causeway Trail is a 3.5-mile long trail that offers stunning views of Lake Champlain and the Adirondack Mountains. The trail is open to hikers, bikers, and walkers.

  • Malletts Bay Trail is a 4.5-mile long trail that runs along the lake’s shores, offering scenic views of the water and the mountains. The trail is suitable for hiking, biking, and walking.

  • Niquette Bay State Park Trail is a network of trails that offers scenic views of the mountains, forests, and waterfalls. The trails are suitable for hikers, bikers, and walkers.

Best Things to Do in Colchester: Activities and Tours

Colchester offers a wide range of activities and tours that cater to different interests. Here are some of the best things to do in Colchester:

  • Lake Champlain Sunset Cruise is a relaxing way to enjoy the lake’s scenic views. The tour offers a chance to observe the sunset while sipping cocktails.

  • Fishing Tours offer a chance to catch delicious fish like bass, trout, and salmon in the lake.

  • Wine Tours are organized by local wineries like Shelburne Vineyard that offer tastings of Vermont’s finest wines.

Week-Long Itinerary for Colchester

Here’s a suggested itinerary for a week-long stay in Colchester:

Day Activities
1 Visit Ethan Allen Homestead Museum, Bayside Park, and Lake Champlain Maritime Museum
2 Explore Colchester Causeway Trail and Malletts Bay Trail
3 Visit the Vermont Railway Museum and Mills Riverside Park
4 Take a Lake Champlain Sunset Cruise
5 Go fishing in the lake
6 Take a wine tour
7 Explore Niquette Bay State Park Trail and the beach

Food and Drink Scene of Colchester

Vermont is famous for its farm-to-table cuisine, and Colchester is no exception. Here are some of the must-try dishes and local beverages:

Must-Try Dishes

  • Vermont Maple Syrup is a staple ingredient in many dishes and is used as a topping for pancakes, waffles, and French toast.

  • Vermont Cheddar Cheese is known for its rich flavor and is used in many dishes, including macaroni and cheese, grilled cheese sandwiches, and omelets.

  • Vermont Maple Creemee is a soft-serve ice cream that is flavored with maple syrup.

Local Beverages

  • Vermont Beer is one of the local favorites. There are many craft breweries in Vermont that offer a wide range of beers.

  • Vermont Wine is also gaining in popularity. Shelburne Vineyard is one of the local wineries that offers tours and tastings.

Where to Stay in Colchester: Hotels, Hostels, and Guesthouses

Colchester has many options for accommodation, from hotels to guesthouses. Here are some options:

  • Hampton Inn Burlington is a great hotel that offers comfortable rooms, a fitness center, and a pool.

  • The Essex Resort & Spa is a luxurious hotel that offers spa services, an indoor pool, and a fitness center.

  • Handy Suites is an affordable hotel that offers spacious rooms and suites with full kitchens.

What to Buy in Colchester: Souvenirs and Local Products to Bring Home

  • Vermont Maple Syrup is a popular souvenir to take home from Vermont.

  • Vermont Maple Candy is a delicious treat made with pure maple syrup.

  • Vermont Craft Beer is a great way to remember the local beer scene.

Local Culture and Customs of Colchester

Vermonters are known for their friendly and welcoming nature. It is customary to greet people with a smile and a wave when passing by.

Best Time to Visit Colchester

The best time to visit Colchester is during the summer months, from June to August. The weather is warm and sunny, and there are many outdoor activities to enjoy.

Do’s and Don’ts of Colchester

Do:

  • Do try the local cuisine, especially Vermont maple syrup and cheese.

  • Do take advantage of the many outdoor activities in Colchester, including hiking, biking, and fishing.

Don’t:

  • Don’t litter or damage the natural environment.

  • Don’t forget to bring appropriate clothing for the changing weather.

Safety and Health

Safety in Colchester

Colchester is a safe town with low crime rates. However, visitors should be cautious when hiking in remote areas and should carry a map and a charged cell phone.

Health in Colchester

Visitors should take precautions to protect themselves from tick bites. Lyme disease is prevalent in Vermont, and tick bites can lead to serious health issues.

Getting to Colchester: Transportation Options and Logistics

Colchester is easily accessible by air, bus, and car. Here are some transportation options:

Airports Near Colchester

  • Burlington International Airport is the nearest airport, located approximately 7.5 miles from Colchester.

Bus Stations Near Colchester

  • Chittenden County Transportation Authority operates bus services that connect Colchester to nearby towns and cities.

Other Options

  • Visitors can rent a car from the airport or in Burlington to explore the town and nearby areas.

How to Get Around in Colchester

The best way to get around Colchester is by car or bike. There are also local taxi services available.

Where to Go Next from Colchester: Nearby Destinations and Excursions

  • Burlington is a nearby city that is known for its vibrant downtown and waterfront.

  • Stowe is a popular ski resort town that offers stunning views of Vermont’s mountains and fall foliage.

  • Montreal, Canada is only a two-hour drive from Colchester and offers an opportunity to explore a different country and culture.

Conclusion

Colchester is a great destination for travelers who are looking for outdoor adventures, scenic views, and cultural experiences. With its many attractions and activities, Colchester is a must-visit destination in Vermont.

View of Mallet's Bay View of Mallet's Bay