30 Best Things to do in Essex!

Essex in Vermont, is a small town with a big heart located in Chittenden County, just a short drive from Burlington. With its mix of rural charm and suburban comfort, Essex is a great place for travelers who want to explore Vermont’s natural beauty while still being close to some modern amenities. Whether you’re here for a relaxing getaway or a bit of adventure, Essex offers everything. In this guide, we’ll showcase the best things to do in Essex during your visit to Vermont.

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1. Historic Attractions

Essex Historical Society and Museum

The Essex Historical Society and Museum is a charming spot for history lovers. Located in the heart of town, it features a collection of old tools, household items, and historical photographs that vividly showcase the area’s past. The exhibits are well organized and easy to understand, providing a clear picture of how Essex has evolved over time. Friendly and knowledgeable staff are on hand to answer questions and share insights. A visit here is a great way to explore the local history in a simple and engaging way.

Essex Junction Train Station

The Essex Junction Train Station is a quaint and convenient spot for travelers. As part of the Amtrak system, it blends historical charm with modern updates. Inside, you’ll find a comfortable waiting area and a small vending section. The friendly staffs are there to help visitors with any questions. Located close to the heart of Essex Junction, you’re just steps away from local shops and eateries. It’s a great place to start your Vermont adventure or take a break during your journey. Overall, the station offers a pleasant and hassle free experience.

Ethan Allen Homestead

The Ethan Allen Homestead is a historic site offers a glimpse into the life of Ethan Allen, a key figure in American history. The charming 18th century house is filled with period furnishings that bring the past to life. The small museum on-site showcases documents and artifacts related to Allen and Vermont’s history. Enjoy a peaceful stroll around the grounds with its scenic views. The friendly staff are eager to share stories and answer questions. It’s a fascinating visit for both history lovers and casual tourists.

The Henry House

When you visit Essex, The Henry House offers a cozy and inviting stay. This historic 19th century building features classic New England architecture and a charming interior with a mix of antique and modern touches. The rooms are comfortable and uniquely decorated, creating a homey atmosphere. The owners are welcoming and knowledgeable, providing great local tips. Breakfast is a treat with homemade, locally sourced ingredients. Its central location makes it easy to explore nearby parks, trails, and shops.

Richmond Village Historic District

The Richmond Village Historic District offers a charming glimpse into the past. Stroll through the area to admire well preserved 19th century buildings, including the elegant Richmond Town Hall. The historic homes, ranging from Federal to Victorian styles, showcase intricate architecture and warm front porches. The Richmond Congregational Church, with its classic steeple, adds to the village’s historic charm. The friendly locals are proud of their history and often share stories about the area.

2. Outdoor Adventures

Hiking and Nature Trails

If you’re looking for a refreshing outdoor adventure, Essex offers some fantastic hiking and nature trails. Start with the Eagle Mountain Trail for moderate hiking and stunning views. For a more relaxed experience, try the Essex Town Forest with its gentle paths and peaceful atmosphere. The Red Barn Trail offers a 2.5 miles loop through woods and fields, while the Mount Philo Trail provides a short but steep climb with panoramic views. Bring plenty of water, wear sturdy shoes, and enjoy the natural beauty of Essex.

Biking Trails

Essex offers fantastic biking trails for all skill levels. The Essex Junction Trail is a smooth, scenic path ideal for a leisurely ride. For more adventure, try the Colchester Causeway with its stunning Lake Champlain views. The Red Rocks Park Trail provides a mix of terrain and forest scenery, perfect for those seeking a bit of wilderness. The Essex Rail Trail is a straightforward, easy ride through charming town spots. Each trail is well marked, making Essex a great destination for biking enthusiasts. Enjoy the beautiful surroundings and have a great ride!

Parks and Recreation

Essex is a fantastic destination for outdoor enthusiasts. Essex Regional Park offers playgrounds, sports fields, and walking trails perfect for a family day out. Indian Brook Reservoir features a peaceful hiking trail with scenic views. The Essex Experience provides bike rentals, mini-golf, and seasonal events. For a quieter spot, Old Red Mill Park has a serene pond ideal for fishing and relaxation. Smaller parks around town also offer lovely places to enjoy the fresh air. Whether you’re into sports, hiking, or just unwinding, Essex has everything.

Fishing and Water Activities

The Winooski River is perfect for both fly fishing and spinning, offering a chance to catch bass and trout in a serene setting. Lake Champlain is ideal for a more relaxed fishing experience or for renting a boat to enjoy the stunning views. If you prefer kayaking or canoeing, the calm waters are great for paddling, while paddleboarding offers a fun twist. Swimming in the designated areas of the lakes and rivers is refreshing, especially on a hot day. Pack a picnic and enjoy a meal by the water, taking in the peaceful surroundings.

Winter Sports

Essex is a winter sports paradise. At nearby Bolton Valley Resort, you can ski or snowboard on trails for all skill levels, with breathtaking views from the top. For a quieter experience, cross-country skiing and snowshoeing are perfect on local trails. Outdoor ice skating rinks offer a classic Vermont experience, while snowmobiling lets you explore snowy forests. For a relaxing outing, try a scenic sleigh ride, often paired with hot cocoa. Essex’s winter charm is all about enjoying the snowy outdoors and making the most of the season.

3. Iconic Landmarks

Essex Experience

The Essex Experience is a charming spot with a mix of local shops, eateries, and activities. The vibrant market features unique stores and specialty food vendors, perfect for picking up souvenirs or trying local treats. Food lovers will enjoy a range of dining options, from cozy cafes to upscale restaurants using fresh, local ingredients. The area also hosts workshops and events, adding extra fun to your visit. Families can enjoy seasonal activities and beautiful green spaces. Overall, it’s a delightful place that captures Vermont’s charm.

Essex Town Hall

The Essex Town Hall is a charming center of local life and history. Its classic New England style features a white facade and a clock tower, making it a picturesque spot. Inside, the Town Hall hosts community events and town meetings, offering a taste of local life. The building also preserves important historical documents and photos about Essex. Surrounding the Town Hall are local shops and eateries, perfect for a leisurely stroll. Visiting Essex Town Hall gives you a genuine glimpse into the town’s heart and spirit.

Champlain Valley Exposition

The Champlain Valley Exposition is a lively event full of fun and local culture. Held in late summer, it offers classic fair attractions like rides, games, and tasty treats such as cotton candy and funnel cakes. You’ll also find live entertainment, including concerts and performances by local artists. Vendor booths showcase handmade goods and unique items, perfect for souvenirs. Families will enjoy kid friendly activities like face painting and petting zoos. It’s a great spot to experience Vermont’s vibrant spirit and have a fantastic time.

Burlington’s Echo Leahy Center for Lake Champlain

The Echo, Leahy Center for Lake Champlain is hands-on museum offers interactive exhibits about the lake’s history and wildlife, making it perfect for all ages. You can learn about the fish, birds, and other creatures that live in the lake. The center also highlights environmental conservation efforts, showing why keeping the lake clean is so important. The building itself is beautiful, with large windows offering stunning lake views. It’s an educational and enjoyable stop that connects you with Vermont’s natural beauty and history.

Petting Farms

Petting farms offer a charming escape with friendly animals like goats, sheep, and pigs. These farms are great for families and animal lovers, allowing you to feed and pet the animals while enjoying the scenic countryside. Staff often share interesting facts and stories about the animals, adding an educational touch. Many farms host special events like goat yoga, making your visit even more enjoyable. Be sure to check their website for hours and any special guidelines before you go. Wear comfortable clothes and shoes for a relaxed visit.

4. Family-Friendly Activities

Winooski River Walk

The Winooski River Walk is a peaceful trail perfect for a relaxing stroll. The flat, well maintained path offers beautiful views of the river and surrounding nature. As you walk, you might spot local wildlife and enjoy the lush greenery and colorful wildflowers. Benches along the way provide great spots for breaks or picnics. Close to downtown Essex, it’s easy to combine your visit with local shops or restaurants. Whether you’re a local or just passing through, it’s a lovely place to unwind and enjoy Vermont’s natural beauty.

Champlain Valley Fairgrounds

If you’re in Essex, be sure to visit the Champlain Valley Fairgrounds. The fairgrounds are the heart of local culture, hosting events year round with the Champlain Valley Fair as the main attraction. In August, the fairgrounds burst with rides, food, and lively entertainment. Even outside of the fair, the grounds are a hub for farmers’ markets, car shows, and community events. It’s a great place to enjoy Vermont’s friendly atmosphere and local charm. The spacious, well kept grounds make it easy to explore local vibe.

Outdoor Ice Skating Rinks

If you’re visiting Essex in winter, outdoor ice skating rinks offer a delightful experience. The Essex Recreation Center features a spacious rink, open from mid-December to late February, with friendly staff and skate rentals available. The Essex Junction Community Park rink is smaller but perfect for a quieter, relaxed skate. For a unique experience, try the rink at Mill Pond, a natural pond turned into an ice rink with beautiful surroundings. Each rink has its charm, making it easy to enjoy skating whether you’re a pro or just having fun.

Golfing Courses

The Essex Country Club offers beautiful greens and a challenging yet enjoyable course. For a fun, fair game, head over to the Williston Golf Club, just a short drive away. If you’re up for a tougher challenge, check out Rocky Ridge Golf Club with its stunning views and demanding layout. Each course provides a welcoming atmosphere and a chance to enjoy the local scenery. Whether you’re a local or just visiting, you’ll find a course that fits your game. Grab your clubs and have a great time on the greens!

Scenic Drives

Essex offers some amazing scenic drives that are perfect for a leisurely exploration. The Essex County Scenic Byway showcases picturesque farmlands and charming towns with rolling hills and dense forests. The Green Mountain Byway provides stunning views of the Green Mountains, especially beautiful in fall or winter. Lake Champlain Byway runs along the lake’s shores, offering serene water and mountain views. Lastly, the Champlain Valley Byway combines lake vistas, farmland, and historic sites. Each route presents unique landscapes and is ideal for a relaxing drive.

5. Natural Attractions

Indian Brook Reservoir

The Indian Brook Reservoir is a serene escape into nature. The clear blue water and lush surroundings create a peaceful setting for a range of outdoor activities. You can enjoy kayaking, fishing, or taking a leisurely walk along well maintained trails. Fishing enthusiasts will appreciate the variety of fish, including bass and trout. The area is also perfect for picnicking with its beautiful views. Birdwatchers will find plenty of avian life around the reservoir. Overall, it’s a great spot to relax and enjoy the natural beauty of Vermont.

Centennial Woods Natural Area

The Centennial Woods Natural Area is a peaceful retreat for nature lovers. The easy trails are perfect for families and solo hikers, offering a range of distances to suit your plans. As you walk, you’ll enjoy the variety of trees and plants, with chances to spot birds and small animals. It’s a great spot for birdwatching or simply soaking in the natural beauty. The trails are well marked, making navigation a breeze. Consider packing picnic stuffs to enjoy in it’s serene surroundings. Centennial Woods is a charming place to connect with Vermont’s outdoors.

Essex Community Park

Essex Community Park in Essex, is a welcoming spot for relaxation and outdoor fun. The park features well-maintained walking trails, perfect for a leisurely stroll or jog. Kids will love the playground, while sports enthusiasts can enjoy the spacious fields for soccer or baseball. The park also has picnic areas with tables and grills, ideal for family meals. The lush green spaces and shady trees make it a great place to relax. Overall, Essex Community Park is a charming place to enjoy nature and community activities.

Allenbrook Park

The Allenbrook Park is a peaceful retreat offering wide-open spaces and well maintained grounds. Perfect for picnics, leisurely walks, or a game of frisbee, it’s a great spot for families and friends. Kids will enjoy the safe and fun playground, while nature lovers can explore the easy walking trails. The tranquil pond is ideal for relaxation and birdwatching. With picnic tables and grills available, it’s perfect for a barbecue. Clean and comfortable, Allenbrook Park is a versatile destination for a refreshing outdoor experience in Essex.

Ethan Allen Park

The Ethan Allen Park is a delightful spot for a day out, just a short drive from Burlington. Named after the famous Vermonter Ethan Allen, the park features a monument honoring his legacy. The scenic overlook offers stunning views of Lake Champlain and the surrounding mountains, perfect for photos or a picnic. The park has well maintained trails suitable for all hiking levels and picnic areas for a family meal. There are also playgrounds for kids and community events throughout the year in Essex.

Winooski Falls

Winooski Falls is a stunning natural wonder along the Winooski River. The waterfall cascades beautifully, offering a serene escape from the everyday hustle. The surrounding area is perfect for a relaxing walk or a picnic, with various viewpoints for great photos. Informative signs provide a glimpse into the falls’ local history, adding depth to your visit. It’s an ideal spot for nature lovers and those seeking a peaceful retreat. If you’re in Essex, make sure to visit Winooski Falls for a refreshing and scenic experience.

How to Reach Essex

If you’re flying, the best option is to fly into Burlington International Airport (BTV), which is the closest major airport to Essex, Vermont. The airport is about a 20 minutes drive from the heart of Essex, making it a very convenient option for travelers.

For travelers coming from nearby areas or who prefer not to fly, driving is a great alternative. Essex is easily accessible by car via major highways. If you’re coming from Boston, it’s about a 3.5 hours drive, while Montreal is just under 2 hours away. Another option is taking an Amtrak train to Essex Junction, a small but functional train station that serves the area.

Local Transportation

Getting around Essex is easy with a few good options. Renting a car is a great way to explore not just Essex but also the surrounding countryside, local parks, and nearby spots like Burlington or Lake Champlain. If you prefer not to drive, Green Mountain Transit (GMT) provides reliable and affordable bus services connecting Essex to Burlington, South Burlington, and nearby towns.

For those who need a ride without driving, taxis and ridesharing services like Uber are available, though they might be less frequent than in larger cities, so it’s a good idea to check their availability, especially during off-peak times.

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FAQ’s (Frequently Asked Questions)

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