Charlotte VermontATTRACTIONS & THINGS TO DO
Listed below are the best attractions and things to do near Charlotte, Vermont.
1. Mt. Philo State Park
PANORAMIC MOUNTAIN VIEWS
Mt. Philo State Park is Vermont's oldest state park, created in 1924, offering stunning panoramic views of the Lake Champlain Valley, the Adirondack Mountains, and the Green Mountains. The park features hiking trails traversing old quarries and wooded hillsides marked by exposed cliffs, making it accessible for visitors of all skill levels. In winter, the park becomes a popular destination for cross-country skiing and snowshoeing, ensuring year-round recreational opportunities.
2. Charlotte Village Winery
LOCAL WINE TASTING
Charlotte Village Winery is a charming local winery offering visitors a taste of Vermont's growing wine culture. Visitors can sample a variety of wines made from locally grown grapes and fruits while enjoying the picturesque surroundings. The winery provides a relaxing atmosphere for both wine enthusiasts and casual visitors looking to experience the flavors of Vermont.
3. Philo Ridge Farm
SUSTAINABLE AGRICULTURE EXPERIENCE
Philo Ridge Farm is a sustainably managed working farm dedicated to environmentally responsible agriculture and land stewardship. The farm showcases a diverse range of livestock, crops, and educational programs that demonstrate sustainable farming practices. Visitors can enjoy farm tours, purchase local products, and learn about the importance of sustainable agriculture in preserving Vermont's rural landscape.
4. Pelkey's Blueberries
PICK-YOUR-OWN BERRY FARM
Pelkey's Blueberries is a family-friendly pick-your-own blueberry farm that has become a summer tradition for many locals and visitors. The farm offers rows of cultivated blueberry bushes laden with sweet, juicy berries during the harvest season. Visitors can spend a relaxing day in the sunshine picking berries while enjoying the scenic rural setting of Charlotte.
5. Charlotte Berry Farm
FRESH BERRIES AND TREATS
Charlotte Berry Farm is a popular agricultural destination offering a variety of pick-your-own berries throughout the growing season. The farm features strawberries, raspberries, blueberries, and other seasonal fruits, allowing visitors to harvest their own fresh produce. Their farm store also offers homemade baked goods, jams, and other berry-based treats made from their farm-fresh produce.
6. Holmes Creek Covered Bridge
HISTORIC WOODEN BRIDGE
Holmes Creek Covered Bridge, also known as Seguin Covered Bridge, is a historic wooden covered bridge built in 1883 that spans the Holmes Creek in Charlotte. The 98-foot bridge features a Town lattice truss design with added arch braces and was named after Dr. John Milton Holmes, who financed part of its construction. Listed on the National Register of Historic Places since 1974, this beloved local landmark provides visitors with a glimpse into Vermont's architectural heritage and scenic views of the surrounding countryside.
7. Charlotte Ferry
HISTORIC LAKE CROSSING
The Charlotte Ferry is one of America's oldest still-functioning ferry crossings, providing service between Charlotte, Vermont and Essex, New York across Lake Champlain. The ferry offers passengers not just transportation but also spectacular views of Lake Champlain and the surrounding mountains. This historic crossing serves as both a practical transit option and a unique attraction that connects two states while preserving a traditional mode of transportation.
8. Thompsons Point
LAKESIDE NATURAL AREA
Thompsons Point is a scenic natural area extending into Lake Champlain that offers visitors opportunities to commune with nature and explore the great outdoors. The point features walking paths, waterfront access, and areas for observing local wildlife and plant species. Visitors can enjoy activities like hiking, birdwatching, and simply taking in the peaceful lake views that make this spot a hidden gem in Charlotte.
9. Vermont Wildflower Farm
NATIVE FLORA SHOWCASE
Vermont Wildflower Farm is a unique botanical attraction showcasing the diverse native flora of the region. Visitors can wander through fields of colorful wildflowers while learning about native plant species and their ecological importance. The farm also offers seeds and gardening advice for those inspired to create their own wildflower gardens at home.
10. Shelburne Museum
AMERICANA ART COLLECTION
Shelburne Museum is a world-renowned museum of art, design, and Americana located just a short drive from Charlotte in neighboring Shelburne. The museum's extensive collection spans 39 buildings on 45 acres and includes American folk art, impressionist paintings, quilts, textiles, decorative arts, furniture, dolls, and transportation artifacts. Visitors can spend an entire day exploring the diverse exhibits that showcase over 150,000 works, making it one of New England's most significant cultural institutions.
11. Vermont Teddy Bear Company
HANDCRAFTED BEAR WORKSHOP
Vermont Teddy Bear Company in nearby Shelburne offers visitors the chance to see how the famous handcrafted teddy bears are made through their popular factory tours. Guests can observe the bear-making process from start to finish and even create their own custom teddy bear to take home. The company's playful atmosphere and commitment to quality craftsmanship make it a favorite destination for families and bear enthusiasts of all ages.
12. Basin Harbor Maritime Museum
LAKE CHAMPLAIN MARITIME HISTORY
Basin Harbor Maritime Museum in nearby Ferrisburgh preserves and showcases the rich maritime history of Lake Champlain through exhibits, artifacts, and historic vessels. The museum features archaeological finds from the lake, including shipwrecks and indigenous watercraft that tell the story of human interaction with this important waterway. Visitors can gain insights into the naval battles, commercial shipping, and recreational boating that have shaped the lake's history over the centuries.
13. Dakin Farm
VERMONT FOOD TRADITIONS
Dakin Farm in Ferrisburgh is a renowned Vermont institution famous for its traditionally smoked meats, maple products, and other specialty foods. Visitors can tour the facilities to learn about traditional food preservation methods that have been used for generations in Vermont. The farm store offers tastings and a wide variety of Vermont-made products, allowing guests to experience authentic New England flavors and take home culinary souvenirs.
14. Burlington Waterfront
VIBRANT LAKESIDE DESTINATION
The Burlington Waterfront, located just 15 minutes north of Charlotte, offers a vibrant lakeside experience with parks, recreational paths, and stunning views of Lake Champlain. Visitors can enjoy waterfront dining, boat cruises, and access to the Island Line Trail, a unique bike path that extends across the lake on a former railroad causeway. The area hosts numerous festivals and events throughout the year, making it a cultural and recreational hub for the entire region.
15. Vergennes Falls Park
HISTORIC WATERFALL VIEWS
Vergennes Falls Park showcases the impressive 37-foot Otter Creek waterfall that once powered the industrial development of Vermont's oldest city, located just 15 minutes south of Charlotte. The park offers observation areas where visitors can watch the powerful cascade while learning about the area's industrial heritage through interpretive displays. The picturesque setting provides excellent photography opportunities and a peaceful spot to relax while listening to the rushing waters.