10 Fun Things To Do Near Winooski, Vermont (That Locals Actually Love)
If you’re planning a trip to
Winooski, Vermont, or you’re just curious what’s around this small riverside city in
Chittenden County, you’re in the right place.
Winooski sits just a couple of miles from Burlington, but it has its own cool, down‑to‑earth vibe. Think old mill buildings, a roaring river, cozy restaurants, and easy access to some of the best spots in northern Vermont.
Below are
10 things to do in and around Winooski that work for couples, families, solo travelers, and laid‑back weekend explorers.
1. Wander the Winooski River Walk & Falls
Start right in town with the
Winooski River, the heart of the city.
Stroll the
Winooski River Walk near the old mill buildings and you’ll find:
- Great views of the Winooski Falls
- Short, easy paths along the water
- Benches where you can sit and listen to the river
On a warm evening, you’ll see locals out with dogs, kids running around, and folks grabbing takeout and eating outside. It’s simple, but it feels very “real Vermont.”
If you like photography, bring your camera. The contrast of the old brick mills, the rushing falls, and the bridge makes for some great shots.
2. Eat Your Way Around Winooski’s Tiny But Tasty Downtown
For a small city,
downtown Winooski has a surprisingly big food scene clustered around the traffic circle.
You can easily park once and then wander between spots like:
- Casual pubs with craft beer and burgers
- Cozy cafes for coffee and pastries
- Global flavors (think noodles, tacos, and more)
It’s the kind of place where you can say, “Let’s just walk around and see what looks good,” and you’ll be fine.
If you’re staying nearby, this is a perfect first‑night stop: low‑stress, lots of choices, and everything within a short walk.
3. Browse Art & History at the Winooski Mill Area
The old
Winooski mill buildings have been turned into apartments, studios, and small businesses, but you can still feel the history.
Take a slow walk through the area and you may find:
- Local artwork displayed in small galleries or shops
- Historic markers explaining the mill town past
- That classic New England industrial architecture
If you like places with a story, this part of Winooski has layers. You’re walking through what used to be a busy mill complex powered by the very river at your side.
4. Enjoy the Winooski Farmers Market (Seasonal)
If you’re visiting in the warmer months, look for the
Winooski Farmers Market (usually on a weekend day, seasonally).
You’ll typically find:
- Fresh local produce and maple products
- Baked goods, jams, and specialty foods
- Crafts and handmade items from Vermont makers
Grab a cup of coffee, wander the booths, chat with farmers, and sample your way through. It’s a fun way to get a real taste of Winooski and broader
Chittenden County.
5. Cross the River to Colchester’s Trails
Just across the river from Winooski is
Colchester, and that opens up more options for outdoor fun.
Depending on the season, you can:
- Walk or run on local recreation paths
- Explore quiet neighborhood parks
- Use Winooski as a base for longer day hikes in the region
Vermont is built for people who like fresh air, and even if you’re not a hardcore hiker, you’ll find plenty of easy paths and short walks near town.
6. Take a Quick Trip to Burlington’s Church Street Marketplace
One of the best things about Winooski is how close it is to
Burlington—only about a 5–10 minute drive.
Head over to the
Church Street Marketplace, a pedestrian‑only street lined with:
- Shops and boutiques
- Outdoor dining and cafes
- Street performers and live music (especially in summer)
It’s a great place to people‑watch, grab ice cream, or do some souvenir shopping. After a few hours, you can escape back to quieter Winooski for dinner.
7. Catch Sunset at Waterfront Park on Lake Champlain
You can’t visit this part of Vermont without seeing
Lake Champlain. From Winooski, it’s a very short drive to
Waterfront Park in Burlington.
There you’ll find:
- A wide lakeside path that’s perfect for walking or biking
- Benches facing the water and the Adirondack Mountains
- Epic sunsets on clear evenings
If you have kids, they can run around the open grassy areas. If you’re traveling as a couple, this is an easy, romantic place to end the day.
8. Bike (or Walk) the Burlington Bike Path & Colchester Causeway
For a bigger outdoor adventure, bring or rent a bike and hit the
Burlington Bike Path, which connects to the famous
Colchester Causeway.
This path runs right along Lake Champlain and then heads out on a narrow strip with water on both sides. On a sunny day, it feels like you’re riding straight into the lake.
Even if you’re not a big cyclist, you can:
- Walk a short stretch and turn around
- Pack a picnic and stop at a scenic spot
- Snap photos of the lake and mountain views
It’s one of the most scenic things to do near Winooski and a highlight of Chittenden County.
9. Explore Local Breweries & Cider in Chittenden County
Vermont is known for its
craft beer, and staying in Winooski puts you close to a bunch of breweries in both Winooski and Burlington.
Within a short drive, you can find:
- Small taprooms pouring locally made IPAs, lagers, and sours
- Cider spots and casual bars with local options on tap
- Friendly staff who will happily suggest what to try
Plan a relaxed afternoon “brewery hop” and use a rideshare or designated driver so you can fully enjoy it. Many places are family‑friendly during the day, with outdoor seating in summer.
10. Day Trip to Nearby Vermont Villages & Mountain Views
Once you’re based in Winooski, it’s easy to explore more of
northern Vermont.
Consider a short day trip to:
- Essex – for shopping centers and occasional local events
- Scenic drives through Chittenden County’s back roads
- Mountain viewpoints a bit farther east or south (great in fall)
Even just driving 20–30 minutes out of town gives you classic Vermont scenes: rolling hills, red barns, and those bright fall colors if you time it right.
Tips for Visiting Winooski, Vermont
To make the most of your Winooski trip:
- Bring layers: Vermont weather can shift quickly, even in summer.
- Walk when you can: Winooski’s downtown is small and easy to explore on foot.
- Check seasonal hours: Farmers markets and some attractions are seasonal.
- Use Winooski as a base: You’re just minutes from Burlington, the lake, and trails.
Final Thoughts: Small City, Big Access
Winooski may look small on the map, but it punches way above its size. You get:
- A walkable downtown with good food
- River views and local history
- Quick access to Burlington, Lake Champlain, and Chittenden County adventures
If you like the idea of staying somewhere a bit quieter than Burlington but still close to everything,
Winooski, Vermont is a smart pick.
Share Your Winooski Experience
Have you been to Winooski or the surrounding Chittenden County area?
- What was your favorite thing to do near Winooski?
- Did you find a great restaurant, hiking spot, or hidden gem?
Drop your thoughts and tips in the comments so other travelers can discover them too. And if you found this guide helpful, please
share it with a friend who’s planning a Vermont getaway!
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