10 Fun Things To Do Near Vergennes, Vermont (Addison County)

If you’re dreaming about a laid-back Vermont getaway, Vergennes in Addison County is a perfect little spot to explore. It’s Vermont’s smallest city, but don’t let the size fool you. Within a short drive, you’ll find waterfalls, farms, lake views, history, and some pretty amazing food. Whether you’re planning a weekend trip from Boston or New York, or you’re already road-tripping through Vermont, here are 10 great things to do in and around Vergennes, VT.

1. Stroll Downtown Vergennes & Grab a Coffee

Start right in the heart of town. Downtown Vergennes is small, walkable, and full of charm. Think brick buildings, friendly locals, and just enough shops and cafés to keep you wandering for a while.

Pop into local boutiques for Vermont-made gifts.
Grab a coffee, latte, or hot chocolate at a cozy café.
Walk the main street and people-watch from a bench.

If you like small towns where everyone seems to know each other, you’ll feel right at home here. It’s also a great place to start your day before heading out to explore the rest of Addison County.

2. Visit Vergennes Falls Park on Otter Creek

Just a short walk from downtown, you’ll find Vergennes Falls Park, where Otter Creek drops over a dramatic falls. It’s one of those spots that feels surprisingly wild even though you’re still in the city.

Watch the waterfall from a viewing area.
Look for herons, ducks, and other wildlife along the creek.
Pack a simple picnic and enjoy the sound of rushing water.

If you’re visiting in spring, the water is usually running strong from snowmelt, and it’s especially impressive. In fall, the foliage around the falls practically glows.

3. Enjoy Lake Champlain at Button Bay State Park

About 7 miles from Vergennes, Button Bay State Park gives you easy access to Lake Champlain, one of the biggest lakes in the northeast. You can:

Go for a swim at the small beach area.
Hike easy trails with lake and mountain views.
Set up a tent at the campground and stay the night.

On a clear day, you can see the Adirondack Mountains in New York across the water. If you enjoy sunsets, this is a top spot near Vergennes. Bring a blanket, a simple dinner, and just relax by the shore.

4. Step Back in Time at the Lake Champlain Maritime Museum

Just down the road in nearby Ferrisburgh, the Lake Champlain Maritime Museum tells the story of the lake and the people who lived and worked on it. Even if you’re “not a museum person,” this one can surprise you. Expect to see:

Replica boats and ships used on Lake Champlain.
Exhibits about the Revolutionary War and early trade.
Hands-on displays that are fun for kids and adults.

It’s a great stop if you’re curious about history, or if you just want to understand why this lake has been so important for hundreds of years. Plan on at least an hour or two.

5. Go Birdwatching and Biking at Dead Creek Wildlife Management Area

If you’re visiting Vergennes in the fall, you’re in luck. The nearby Dead Creek Wildlife Management Area in Addison is famous for migrating snow geese and other birds.

Bring binoculars to spot geese, ducks, and raptors.
Walk or bike quiet back roads and enjoy wide-open views.
Visit viewing areas set up specifically for birdwatchers.

Even outside of fall migration, the area is peaceful and scenic. The fields, wetlands, and distant mountains give you that classic Vermont countryside feel. If you’re into photography, this is one of the best photo spots near Vergennes.

6. Explore Kingsland Bay State Park

On the shores of Lake Champlain in Ferrisburgh, Kingsland Bay State Park is another gem just a short drive from Vergennes. It feels quieter and more tucked away than some other parks. Here you can:

Spread out on the lawn overlooking the bay.
Launch a kayak or paddleboard if you bring your own.
Enjoy shaded picnic areas under old trees.

The park is day-use only, which helps keep it calm and uncrowded. It’s a nice pick if you want a slower pace with water views but don’t need a full campground.

7. Taste Local Vermont at Farm Stands and Creemee Stops

You can’t visit this part of Vermont without tasting the local food scene. Around Vergennes and Addison County, you’ll run into small farm stands, roadside markets, and classic creemee (soft-serve ice cream) spots. Look out for:

Fresh maple syrup and maple candy.
Local cheeses, eggs, and seasonal veggies.
Maple or vanilla creemees on a hot summer day.

One of the simple joys of driving the back roads here is pulling over at a tiny unmanned farm stand, dropping a few dollars in the honor box, and walking away with just-picked produce. It’s very Vermont.

8. Drive Scenic Back Roads with Mountain and Farm Views

Sometimes the best thing to do near Vergennes is simply… drive. The back roads in Addison County are full of rolling fields, classic red barns, and long views of the Green Mountains to the east and the Adirondacks to the west. Pick a direction and explore:

Head south toward Addison and the open farm country.
Drive west toward Lake Champlain overlooks.
Take detours whenever you see an interesting side road.

If you’re coming from a busy city, this slow, scenic driving can be surprisingly relaxing. Roll down the windows, put on some music, and just enjoy the quiet.

9. Discover History at Chimney Point State Historic Site

A short drive from Vergennes, on the Lake Champlain Bridge between Vermont and New York, you’ll find the Chimney Point State Historic Site. It sits in a spot that has been used by Native Americans, French settlers, and later American settlers for centuries. Here you can:

Tour the historic building and exhibits.
Learn about early life along Lake Champlain.
Walk the grounds and enjoy views of the bridge and water.

Combine this stop with the nearby Crown Point State Historic Site on the New York side if you want a deeper dive into the area’s military history. It makes a nice half-day loop from Vergennes.

10. Experience Small-Town Events and Live Music

Vergennes may be small, but it has a lively community feel. Depending on when you visit, you might catch:

A summer concert on the green or in a local venue.
A farmers’ market with local produce and crafts.
Seasonal festivals, parades, or holiday events.

If you enjoy live music, check listings in and around Vergennes and nearby Middlebury. Grabbing a local beer, listening to music, and chatting with Vermonters is a great way to end a day of exploring waterfalls, lakes, and country roads.

Planning Your Trip to Vergennes, VT

Here are a few quick tips to make your visit smoother:

Best time to visit: Late spring through fall for hiking, water activities, and foliage. Winter can be beautiful, but things are quieter and some attractions are seasonal.
Getting around: You’ll want a car. Many of the best things to do near Vergennes are a short drive away.
Trip length: A weekend is enough for the highlights, but 3–4 days lets you slow down and really enjoy Addison County.

Vergennes works well as a base for exploring more of Lake Champlain and central Vermont, especially if you like a mix of small-town life, outdoor fun, and local food.

What Will You Do First Near Vergennes?

From waterfalls and wildlife to lakeside parks and historic sites, Vergennes and Addison County, Vermont pack a lot into a small area. Are you most excited about:

Relaxing by Lake Champlain at Button Bay or Kingsland Bay?
Wandering downtown Vergennes and checking out the falls?
Driving scenic back roads and stopping at every farm stand you see?

I’d love to hear what you’re planning. Have you visited Vergennes or anywhere else in Addison County? Share your favorite spots, tips, or questions in the comments, and feel free to send this guide to a friend who’s thinking about a Vermont road trip. The more ideas we share, the better every visit gets.

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10 Best Things to Do Near Vergennes, Vermont (Addison County)