What to do when it’s freezing outside and you’re not at the slopes?
I grew up in Burlington Vermont and never went skiing or snowboarding in my life. So I know a thing or two about winter without the slopes. The special thing about having Vermont as my home state, I never stop being a tourist. It is such a beautiful place with so many hidden gems. There are a few special spots for those cold days I share below. If you’ve been to Vermont and the Burlington area, comment your own recommendations!
In the winter my favorite thing to do is visit Shelburne Farms.
They have the best walking paths with fantastic views East and West of Lake Champlain and Camel’s Hump. In the winter if the snow is fresh and thick, you can rent snowshoes from Outdoor Gear Exchange on Church Street. Otherwise, we were able to walk with regular snow boots. Near the main building is a farm yard with goats and sheep. Across the street are a couple horses to visit as well. On the lower level of the main building, accessible from the East side, is a local bakery for cookies or bread to take home. Down the road closer to the Lake are cows with cute noses and fluffy ears.
Another favorite place to go in the Winter is along Lake Champlain bike path. It may be a quick visit. Depending on the weather it can be quite cold. On a sunny day, it has a beautiful view of the snowy lakeshore and Adirondack mountains across the lake. I’m lucky to live a short walk away. However, there are a lot of nature trails in every neighborhood around Burlington and the surrounding area. Each has its own magic to share.
For food, there are a couple places I like to go.
For a cozy beverage try Muddy Waters or Nomad Coffee. For a quick meal, City Market and Healthy Living have healthy and wholesome options. If you need a cozy cafe in an unorthodox location, Great Harvest Bread Company has a great lunch menu. Their cafe section is in the same space at the bakery. The smell of warm bread, and the opportunity to try samples, is heaven in the winter. Dinner will always be special at Leunig’s Bistro. You’ll be transported to a European experience through the decor and menu selection.
Try the local brews
There are too many breweries to count even in Burlington. One of my recent favorite spots to visit is Zero Gravity. They have a beautiful space, coffee for the non-alcoholic drinkers, and variety of food options for the vegetarians. For a casual dinner and amazing drink, Fiddlehead and Folino’s has my favorite beer and an amazing pizza. Lastly, the famous heady topper Alchemist Brewery is just 45 minutes away in Stowe. While in the area, Von Trapp Family Lodge has scenic views from their kaffeehaus. It’s a random place to be my favorite, but something out of the ordinary usually is the best.
If you need to warm up with some soulful movement
Try Sangha Studio or Queen City Yoga & Fitness. They offer a discount for new members.
There’s so much more I could share as a local. But these have been recent stops on my regular visits home. Let me know what you think below, and share with a friend!
