Colchester VermontATTRACTIONS & THINGS TO DO
Listed below are the best attractions and things to do near Colchester, Vermont.
1. Sunset Drive-In Theatre
CLASSIC OUTDOOR MOVIE VENUE
Sunset Drive-In Theatre is a long-standing outdoor cinema offering a nostalgic movie-watching experience under the stars. Guests can enjoy double features and concessions from their vehicles, making for a fun and family-friendly evening. The drive-in is a cherished local entertainment spot, especially during the warmer months.
2. Airport Park
RECREATION AND TRAILS HUB
Airport Park is a popular community park featuring sports fields, playgrounds, tennis courts, and a 1.3-mile loop trail. It is a favorite spot for walking, cycling, and outdoor gatherings, with trail connections to natural areas and the UVM Bog boardwalk. The park also provides convenient access to the Colchester Causeway.
3. Saint Michael's Playhouse
PROFESSIONAL SUMMER THEATER
Saint Michael's Playhouse presents top-quality theatrical productions throughout the summer, attracting both locals and visitors. The theater is known for its engaging performances and professional company set on the campus of Saint Michael's College. Audiences enjoy a blend of classic and contemporary plays in a welcoming atmosphere.
4. Niquette Bay State Park
LAKESIDE OUTDOOR ADVENTURE
Niquette Bay State Park offers extensive hiking trails, picnic areas, and a scenic sandy beach along Lake Champlain. Outdoor enthusiasts can swim, kayak, or explore the trails that wind through forests and up dramatic bluffs with lake views. The park is especially popular for its natural beauty and peaceful atmosphere.
5. Malletts Bay
SCENIC LAKE CHAMPLAIN INLET
Malletts Bay is a beloved waterfront destination known for its serene waters, boating, and fishing opportunities. The bay hosts popular events such as the Lake Champlain International Fishing Derby and winter pond hockey championships. With its scenic views and plentiful recreation, it draws visitors year-round.
6. Colchester Causeway
HISTORIC BIKE AND WALKING TRAIL
The Colchester Causeway is a nationally recognized Hall of Fame trail that stretches across Lake Champlain, providing spectacular water and mountain vistas. The trail is ideal for cycling, walking, and birdwatching, and it connects to the Lake Champlain Islands via a seasonal bike ferry. This iconic pathway is a must-see for outdoor enthusiasts.
7. Colchester Pond Natural Area
WILDLIFE AND NATURE TRAILS
Colchester Pond Natural Area features a 3.5-mile loop trail around a peaceful pond, ideal for hiking, birding, and fishing. In spring, the area bursts with wildflowers like Dutchman's breeches and trout lilies. It is a tranquil escape that highlights the region's natural diversity.
8. Spare Time Colchester
BOWLING AND FAMILY FUN
Spare Time Colchester is a lively entertainment center offering bowling, laser tag, arcade games, and a full-service restaurant. It is a favorite among families and groups looking for indoor fun. The center provides a welcoming atmosphere for both casual play and parties.
9. Bayside Park
COMMUNITY PARK WITH VIEWS
Bayside Park sits on the shores of Malletts Bay and offers recreational facilities including sports fields, playgrounds, and a lakeside swimming area. The park is a gathering spot for picnics and summer community events. Its beautiful location and amenities make it a popular destination for visitors of all ages.
10. Rossetti Natural Area
SANDY BEACH AND TRAILS
Rossetti Natural Area features a short gravel trail leading to a quiet sandy beach with sweeping views of Malletts Bay. The area is perfect for a peaceful walk and wildlife observation. It provides a relaxing alternative to busier parks in the area.
11. Vermont National Guard Library & Museum
MILITARY HISTORY COLLECTION
The Vermont National Guard Library & Museum exhibits military artifacts and historical displays, including uniforms, weaponry, and battle dioramas dating back to the Revolutionary War. Special events and presentations offer deeper insights into Vermont's military heritage. Admission is by donation, providing an educational experience for all ages.
12. Delta Park
NATURE AND RECREATION SPOT
Delta Park is a riverside area featuring walking trails, birdwatching opportunities, and scenic views along the Winooski River Delta. The park is a peaceful retreat for those interested in nature and quiet strolls. It is especially popular among birders and photographers.
13. Holy Cross Path
SHARED USE COMMUNITY PATH
Holy Cross Path is a convenient shared-use trail for walking, running, and biking located along Holy Cross Road. Easily accessed from Airport Park or Rossetti Natural Area, the path provides a safe and scenic route for recreation. It is well-loved by local residents for daily exercise.
14. Ethan Allen Homestead Museum
REVOLUTIONARY WAR HISTORY SITE
The Ethan Allen Homestead Museum, located nearby in Burlington, preserves the former home and farmland of Vermont's famous Revolutionary War hero, Ethan Allen. The museum offers guided tours, exhibits, and nature trails along the Winooski River. It provides an educational glimpse into early Vermont history and pioneer life.
15. Waterfront Park
LAKE CHAMPLAIN BOARDWALK
Waterfront Park in Burlington is a scenic lakefront area offering walking and biking paths, marina access, and seasonal festivals. Its sweeping views of Lake Champlain make it a popular spot for picnics, concerts, and sunset watching. The park is a highlight of the greater Colchester area for locals and tourists alike.