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07 Apr 2025
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7 Best Places for Day Trips From Colchester, VT

Day Trips from Colchester, VT: An Overview

Venture out from Colchester, VT, and immerse yourself in the beauty and variety of the surrounding area with these captivating day trips. Each destination offers its own unique charm and opportunities for adventure, relaxation, and exploration. Begin with Burlington, a vibrant city on the shores of Lake Champlain, renowned for its lively arts scene, eclectic dining options, and stunning waterfront views. Just a short drive away lies Shelburne Farms, where you can wander through historic landscapes and learn about sustainable farming practices.

For nature enthusiasts, Smugglers' Notch State Park awaits with its dramatic mountain vistas and excellent hiking trails. Stowe, known for its quintessential Vermont charm, invites visitors to enjoy its outdoor adventures and quaint village atmosphere, providing both winter sports and summer leisure activities. Discover the tranquility of the Lake Champlain Islands, offering picturesque settings for boating, fishing, and relaxation.

In Montpelier, the smallest state capital in the U.S., immerse yourself in history and culture, with its charming architecture and vibrant arts scene. Waterbury, the perfect blend of outdoor excitement and culinary delights, boasts attractions like the famous Ben & Jerry’s factory and local breweries, along with opportunities for hiking and exploring nearby natural sites.

Each of these destinations provides a unique glimpse into the lifestyle and natural beauty of Vermont, making them ideal for an unforgettable day trip from Colchester.


Recommended Activities

  • Burlington offers a vibrant arts scene, excellent local dining, and beautiful waterfront views of Lake Champlain, making it a lively and scenic destination.
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  • Trip Point Pin2

    Shelburne Farms

    Shelburne Farms is a historic estate on the shores of Lake Champlain, providing visitors with stunning landscapes, walking trails, and an insight into sustainable farming practices.
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  • Trip Point Pin3

    Smugglers' Notch State Park

    This park is renowned for its dramatic mountain pass, offering breathtaking natural scenery, hiking opportunities, and a chance to experience the outdoors in a pristine Vermont setting.
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  • Stowe is a charming village known for its picturesque mountainous backdrop, offering excellent skiing in winter and scenic hiking and biking trails in summer.
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    Lake Champlain Islands

    The Lake Champlain Islands provide a serene escape with stunning lake views, charming small towns, and recreational activities like boating and fishing.
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  • Montpelier, the nation’s smallest state capital, boasts a rich history, architectural charm, and a vibrant arts scene, along with a variety of local shops and eateries.
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  • Waterbury is a hub for outdoor recreation and food lovers, famous for the original Ben & Jerry’s factory, local breweries, and access to hiking trails and natural attractions.
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Restaurants

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    The Skinny Pancake, Burlington, VT

    4.4
    $$$$

    The Skinny Pancake, Burlington, VT

    A creperie offering both sweet and savory options, known for its local ingredients and unique flavor combinations.
    4.4
    $$$$
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    Prohibition Pig

    4.5
    $$$$

    Prohibition Pig

    Known for its delicious BBQ and craft beer selection, this restaurant offers a unique twist on classic Southern dishes.
    4.5
    $$$$
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    Hen of the Wood

    Hen of the Wood

    Celebrated for its farm-to-table philosophy and refined New American cuisine in a rustic, yet elegant setting.
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    Pizzeria Verità

    4.7
    $$$$

    Pizzeria Verità

    A gourmet pizza place known for its authentic Neapolitan-style pizzas made in a wood-fired oven.
    4.7
    $$$$
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    Doc Ponds

    4.3
    $$$$

    Doc Ponds

    With a laid-back atmosphere and eclectic menu, this spot is popular for its craft beers and creative comfort food.
    4.3
    $$$$
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Hotels

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    Hotel Vermont, Burlington, Vermont

    4.6

    Hotel Vermont, Burlington, Vermont

    A boutique hotel that blends rustic charm with modern luxury, offering locally-sourced fare and unique local experiences.
    4.6
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    Edson Hill

    4.7

    Edson Hill

    A luxurious country inn in Stowe, featuring elegant rooms and suites, perfect for a retreat with picturesque views of the surrounding mountains.
    4.7
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    The Essex, Vermont's Culinary Resort & Spa

    4.3

    The Essex, Vermont's Culinary Resort & Spa

    Known for its culinary school and world-class spa facilities, it offers a unique experience focused on relaxation and gourmet meals.
    4.3
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    Trapp Family Lodge in Stowe, VT

    4.5

    Trapp Family Lodge in Stowe, VT

    A mountain resort featuring Austrian-inspired architecture, offering stunning views and a variety of outdoor activities.
    4.5
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    Lake Champlain Inn

    4.5

    Lake Champlain Inn

    An intimate bed and breakfast with beautiful views of Lake Champlain, offering a cozy, personalized experience.
    4.5
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Local Events & Happenings

  • Event Icon

    Alison Krauss and Union Station w/ Jerry Douglas

    Alison Krauss and Union Station w/ Jerry Douglas

    The event will take place at Shelburne Museum in Shelburne.
    Map IconShelburne Museum in Shelburne (25.63 mi)
    Calendar Icon20 Sep 2025
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    Mary Chapin Carpenter w/ Brandy Clark

    Mary Chapin Carpenter w/ Brandy Clark

    The event will take place at Paramount Theatre - VT in Rutland.
    Map IconParamount Theatre - VT in Rutland (28.78 mi)
    Calendar Icon26 Sep 2025
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    Blues Traveler

    Blues Traveler

    The event will take place at Paramount Theatre - VT in Rutland.
    Map IconParamount Theatre - VT in Rutland (28.78 mi)
    Calendar Icon3 Oct 2025
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    Lettuce

    Lettuce

    The event will take place at Higher Ground in South Burlington.
    Map IconHigher Ground in South Burlington (28.81 mi)
    Calendar Icon31 Aug 2025
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    Improvement Movement

    Improvement Movement

    The event will take place at Showcase Lounge at Higher Ground in South Burlington.
    Map IconShowcase Lounge at Higher Ground in South Burlington (28.81 mi)
    Calendar Icon2 Sep 2025
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    Steve Hofstetter - Ages 18+

    Steve Hofstetter - Ages 18+

    The event will take place at Showcase Lounge at Higher Ground in South Burlington.
    Map IconShowcase Lounge at Higher Ground in South Burlington (28.81 mi)
    Calendar Icon6 Sep 2025
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    The Mountain Grass Unit

    The Mountain Grass Unit

    The event will take place at Showcase Lounge at Higher Ground in South Burlington.
    Map IconShowcase Lounge at Higher Ground in South Burlington (28.81 mi)
    Calendar Icon8 Sep 2025
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Travel Gems from Reddit

  • Reddit Icon

    13 votes, 24 comments. Hi everyone! My birthday is coming up this week and I am trying to play a day trip this weekend. I am looking to go somewhere

    Day trips from Burlington, VT

    13 votes, 24 comments. Hi everyone! My birthday is coming up this week and I am trying to play a day trip this weekend. I am looking to go somewhere

    /r/burlington
  • Reddit Icon

    Hi all! I&#x27;m searching for some ideas on what I could do for a day <strong>trip</strong> <strong>to</strong> <strong>Vermont</strong>. Any fun towns or attractions for a d...

    r/vermont on Reddit: Looking for Montreal to Vermont day trip idea's

    Hi all! I&#x27;m searching for some ideas on what I could do for a day <strong>trip</strong> <strong>to</strong> <strong>Vermont</strong>. Any fun towns or attractions for a d...

    /r/vermont
  • Reddit Icon

    Hey there! Im driving from Jersey up to Stowe for a long weekend, on the way back down I want to make a little day trip to different distilleries

    Vermont day trip recs?

    Hey there! Im driving from Jersey up to Stowe for a long weekend, on the way back down I want to make a little day trip to different distilleries

    /r/roadtrip

Music for Your Journey

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    Coldplay - Viva La Vida

    Coldplay - Viva La Vida

    An uplifting anthem that's perfect for a scenic drive.
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    Rascal Flatts - Life is a Highway

    Rascal Flatts - Life is a Highway

    A classic road trip song that captures the spirit of adventure on the open road.
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    Eagles - Take It Easy - 2013 Remaster

    Eagles - Take It Easy - 2013 Remaster

    Laid-back vibes make this an ideal track for a relaxing drive through Vermont's landscapes.
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    George Ezra - Budapest

    George Ezra - Budapest

    A catchy tune with a sense of wanderlust and exploration.
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    Adele - Hometown Glory

    Adele - Hometown Glory

    The melody and lyrics evoke feelings of comfort and belonging, making it perfect for travelers.
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    Rusted Root - Send Me on My Way

    Rusted Root - Send Me on My Way

    A feel-good song that encourages a positive outlook and a sense of adventure.
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    Norah Jones - Come Away With Me

    Norah Jones - Come Away With Me

    Norah Jones's soothing voice provides a calming backdrop for any journey.
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    Imagine Dragons - On Top Of The World

    Imagine Dragons - On Top Of The World

    A song that inspires optimism and a feeling of triumph, perfect for a day trip.
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    Led Zeppelin - Going to California - Remaster

    Led Zeppelin - Going to California - Remaster

    Led Zeppelin's classic track is a poetic ballad filled with wanderlust.
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    Ed Sheeran - Castle on the Hill

    Ed Sheeran - Castle on the Hill

    Ed Sheeran's nostalgic lyrics and upbeat tempo are great for reminiscing as you travel.
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