There are Plenty of Ways to Enjoy Lake Champlain in Burlington Vermont

Lake Champlain forms a large portion of the western border of the State of Vermont and is often referred to as "The West Coast" of the State.  This large inland lake that flows northward towards the St. Lawrence River gives the area the feeling of a New England Seaport without the actual sea and Burlington Vermont is a great place to enjoy all the Lake Champlain Valley has to offer.

An eight mile recreational bike path runs along the scenic waterfront of Burlington.  Cyclists, in-line skaters, walkers, joggers and scooters take full advantage of this trail.

North Beach Campground, located on the northern portion of the path, has a 2000 foot sandy beach and concession stand just minutes from Downtown Burlington and an easy ride along the trail.  

During the summer months children play in the sand, enjoy the playground, or wade in the clean shallow waters of Lake Champlain.   There is also a volleyball area and plenty of shade.  This is a great spot for a family picnic or outing.

The Burlington Boathouse, located Downtown is  where the Spirit of Ethan Allan II departs daily from Mid May to Mid October for luxury cruises on Lake Champlain.  Narrated cruises offer a glimpse into the history of the area and the role the Lake has played.  

Across the lake from Burlington, the Adirondack Mountains of New York State provide a spectacular sweeping view.  Grabbing a ferry at the King Street Dock for a ride across to Port Kent, New York gives another sweeping view, that of the Green Mountains of Vermont.

When it is time for some shopping or dining, the Church Street Marketplace, a pedestrian friendly four block downtown area is the place to go.    Many events take place throughout the year including parades and festivals.

Kids (and parents too!) strolling the Church Street Marketplace will want to check out:

• Ken's Pizza

• Lake Champlain Chocolates

• Ben & Jerry's Ice Cream

• Lindt Chocolate Store

• Learning Express Toy Store

• Sweetwaters offers families a menu just for kids with a wide selection of children's meals along with some coloring activities.

Just south of Burlington is Shelburne Vermont with some notable attractions for families to explore.    See the following Travel News Articles for more information:

The Vermont Teddy Bear Factory lets Kids See How Bears are Made and then Make a Friend for Life

A Family Visit to the Shelburne Museum

Explore the Children's Farmyard at the Majestic Barn of Shelburne Farms