Vermont’s Oldest City Near Lake Champlain Boasts Eclectic Shops, Recreation, and Charming Small-Town Appeal

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Vermont's Oldest City Near Lake Champlain Boasts Eclectic Shops, Recreation, and Charming Small-Town Appeal

Vermont is one of the least populated states in the U.S., with less than 700,000 people calling it home (only Wyoming has fewer residents). Yet, Vermont’s small size only adds to its charm, and that is especially true of its oldest city, Vergennes. Founded in 1788, just a few thousand people call Vergennes home, but visitors to the area are treated to a wealth of amenities typically reserved for cities ten times its size.



Perched along the banks of Otter Creek, about an hour south of Vermont’s largest city with artsy vibes, you will find both an outdoor wonderland and an eclectic downtown in Vergennes. The shores of Lake Champlain and Button Bay State Park are a quick drive away, while places like the Vergennes Opera House and Vergennes Falls Park offer plenty of ways to stay busy without needing to jump into your car. Make no mistake — the town is tiny. But as a lovely weekend trip from Burlington or as a way to experience classic Vermont allure, Vergennes is a destination that is quite hard to beat.

Button Bay State Park and Lake Champlain

The still water at Button Point at Button Bay State Park in Vermont



Vermont is an excellent spot for outdoor adventures, and that holds true for Vergennes as well. The town is a mere 7 miles from Button Bay State Park, where you will find hiking and biking trails, camping, fishing, and plenty of other ways to stay busy near Lake Champlain. There are only two hiking trails in the park, but they offer excellent water views and are suitable for hikers of all skill levels. Bikers, however, can venture out on the 363-mile Lake Champlain Bikeway. Even if you aren’t interested in doing the entire epic route, you can still enjoy some family biking in the section near Button Bay.

To get out on the water, venture over to Basin Harbor Resort & Boat Club. It offers pontoon and motorboat rentals to the general public, though consider also using it as your lodging for the weekend. Along with cozy cottages and guest rooms right next to the water, it offers amenities such as bike rentals, canoes, cruises, tennis courts, and more. In other words, it’s a luxurious way to spend your time in Vergennes.

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If you don’t mind some driving, consider heading up to a picturesque island in the northern portion of Lake Champlain. Not only is there a state park and beach here, but you will also find a wealth of biking trails and a variety of vineyards. Need a bike rental? Check out Little City Cycles in Vergennes or Local Motion near Burlington.



Vergennes is bursting with small-town charm

Main Street in Vergennes, Vermont on a cozy afternoon

Dave Pennells

By Dave Pennells

Dave Pennells, MS, has contributed his expertise as a career consultant and training specialist across various fields for over 15 years. At City University of Seattle, he offers personal career counseling and conducts workshops focused on practical job search techniques, resume creation, and interview skills. With a Master of Science in Counseling, Pennells specializes in career consulting, conducting career assessments, guiding career transitions, and providing outplacement services. Her professional experience spans multiple sectors, including banking, retail, airlines, non-profit organizations, and the aerospace industry. Additionally, since 2001, he has been actively involved with the Career Development Association of Australia.