TO SKI OR NOT TO SKI: THAT IS THE QUESTION
It’s a commonly-held belief that there’s nothing to do during winter in the Northeast except ski. Folks who don’t shred gnar pistes every weekend during the snow season worry that they’ll be left behind with nothing to do. Nothing could be farther from the truth! Vermont is here for you non-skiers, and we want you to enjoy our region the way that we do. So check out a Vermonters guide to winter in Vermont:
1. POWDER TO THE PEOPLE
We’ll get the most obvious one out of the way. Easily the most popular way to spend Vermont’s snowy winter season, head to one of our world-renowned ski mountains and carve some fresh powder! Whether you ski or ride (or just hang out in the lodge with a hot toddy), you’ll find trails for all abilities and a community of powderhounds that will make you feel like you’re old friends. Thaw out over some après-ski drinks with your crew and catch some live music or head out and enjoy one of Vermont’s lively ski towns!
2. SNOW SHOES? SNOW PROBLEM
For those of you who prefer the slow meander to the speedy rip, snowshoeing is a perfect way to marvel at Vermont’s winter wonderland with the whole family. Inhale the crisp winter air, keep your eyes peeled for local wildlife, and enjoy the solitude of a glistening maple forest. Vermont’s many state parks are open to the public for free all winter long, and we’ve got the skinny on the best parks for snowshoeing.
3. SNOW YOUR HISTORY
Escape the cold and warm up with some knowledge about the history of Vermont. Explore and discover art, history, and the natural beauty of Vermont at Shelburne Museum. Enjoy unique exhibits dedicated to all kinds of whimsical art while the snow falls on the museum’s gorgeous landscape.
4. ENJOY A COLD ONE
Get into the spirit with spirits! Mad River Distillers produces Vermont crafted rum, whisky, and brandy and its Burlington Tasting Room will mix you up an experience you won’t long forget. Sample their wide array of products, learn about distilling, shop for cocktail accessories, mixers, and books, and do it all with an expertly crafted cocktail in-hand. If you find yourself exploring the southern part of the Lake Champlain region, check out WhistlePig Whiskey in Middlebury. WhistlePig produces some of the best farm-to-bottle whiskey in the country out of their 150-year-old renovated dairy barn. Check out their tasting room and find out what all the fuss is about.
5. SNOW BUSINESS IS BETTER THAN SHOW BUSINESS
If you enjoy arts of the performance variety, then you’re in luck! The Lake Champlain region has you covered. Catch some trendy live music at Higher Ground in South Burlington, Vermont’s premier live music venue. You can catch local, undiscovered talent one night and enjoy live performances by Grammy winners the very next. If you’re more into orchestral ensembles and off-Broadway plays, the Flynn Center for the Performing Arts or Lyric Theatre never disappoint. Looking to have a good laugh? Get a taste for the local comedy scene at Vermont Comedy Club.
Vermont winters can be long, but we sure know how to make them awesome. If you are visiting the Queen City this winter, be sure to also check out the events calendar for special events, shows and festivals.
