Things To Do
in Essex Junction
Essex Junction is a vibrant village located in the state of Vermont, USA. Known for its charming small-town atmosphere, Essex Junction offers a mix of residential neighborhoods, local shops, and outdoor recreational opportunities. The village is home to the Champlain Valley Exposition, a popular event venue that hosts fairs, concerts, and trade shows throughout the year.
With its proximity to natural beauty such as Mount Mansfield and Lake Champlain, Essex Junction is a delightful destination for both residents and visitors alike.
Prices
- 🏠 Accommodation (per night): $100 - $250
- 🍽️ Meal at a Restaurant: $15 - $50
- ☕ Coffee: $3 - $6
- 🚌 Public transport ticket (single journey): $1.50 - $3
- 🛒 Grocery shopping (per week): $60 - $150
- 🏋️♂️ Gym Membership: $30 - $70
Day Trips
Spend a day exploring around
Start your day with breakfast at a local café, enjoying some freshly brewed coffee and pastries. After breakfast, take a stroll through the charming streets to soak in the morning atmosphere.
Visit the local farmers' market; it's a great opportunity to sample local produce and crafts. Enjoy lunch from a food stall and pick up some unique souvenirs.
Dine at a cozy restaurant offering Vermont cuisine. After dinner, relax at a local park or attend a community event if available.
Head out to the nearby parks for a morning hike, taking in the beautiful scenery of Vermont. Bring along a packed breakfast to enjoy at a scenic viewpoint.
Spend the afternoon kayaking or paddleboarding on Lake Champlain, exploring the serene waters. Grab a light lunch at a lakeside café for a refreshing break.
After a day of adventure, unwind with a picnic dinner as the sun sets over the lake. Optionally, enjoy some stargazing if the skies are clear.
Strengths and Weaknesses
- Small-town charm with a close-knit community
- Access to beautiful natural scenery, including parks and hiking trails
- Strong sense of community engagement and local events
- Proximity to Burlington, offering more urban amenities
- Good public schools and educational opportunities
- Limited job opportunities compared to larger cities
- Higher cost of living relative to some surrounding areas
- Public transportation options may be limited
- Harsh winters with heavy snowfall
- Limited nightlife and entertainment options
Best Activities in Essex Junction
Outdoor fun you shouldn't miss!
Explore the scenic beauty of Essex Junction and its surroundings by riding on the Lamoille Valley Rail Trail, which offers a flat and well-maintained pathway suitable for cyclists of all levels.
Experience the stunning views and diverse wildlife by hiking in the Mount Mansfield State Forest, where various trails cater to different skill levels and provide ample opportunities for exploration.
Enjoy a day on the water by kayaking on Lake Champlain, where you can take in the beautiful landscape, watch for wildlife, and even paddle to some nearby islands.
On weekends, enjoy local produce, handmade goods, and live music at the Essex Junction Farmers Market while connecting with the community and supporting local farmers.
Spend a relaxing day outdoors having a picnic at Maple Street Park, which features playgrounds, open green spaces, and picnic areas perfect for families and friends.
Visit The Salmon Hole to observe various bird species in their natural habitat, making it an ideal spot for bird watchers and nature enthusiasts.
Test your skills at the local disc golf course which offers fun challenges for players of all ages in a picturesque outdoor setting.
Tours
Uncover the best of Essex Junction with these unforgettable tours.
Places to Visit in Essex Junction
Visit one of these nice places.
A beautiful area featuring trails and scenic views of lush greenery and wildlife, perfect for nature photography.
This park offers picturesque views of the river, bridges, and surrounding landscapes, ideal for capturing serene moments.
Located just outside Essex Junction, this park provides stunning panoramic views of the Lake Champlain Valley, especially at sunset.
The lake's shoreline and scenic vistas offer numerous photo opportunities, particularly with the backdrop of the Adirondack Mountains.
This venue hosts events throughout the year, and its grounds provide interesting architectural views and community life to photograph.
Food in Essex Junction
Essex Junction Famous Food
Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food
A must-try local dessert made with soft-serve ice cream infused with pure Vermont maple syrup. Find this delightful treat at Creemee Stand or local ice cream shops.
Must-Try!
Indulge in the rich and creamy Vermont cheddar cheese, often served in sandwiches, omelets, or as a standalone snack. Visit the Vermont Farmstead Cheese Company for artisanal cheese tasting.
Savor the delightful taste of freshly made apple cider donuts, a popular local treat especially during the fall season. Grab these delectable donuts at local bakeries like Happy Valley Orchard.
Unique Experiences
Get to know Essex Junction better with these unique experiences.
Food Markets
Explore local food markets
Explore a vibrant showcase of local produce, gourmet foods, and artisanal crafts. The Farmers Market offers a wide variety of street food options including fresh tacos, wood-fired pizzas, and more.
Weather
How to Behave
Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior
Residents of Essex Junction value friendliness. A smile and a warm greeting can go a long way in establishing a positive interaction with locals.
Engaging with or showing respect for local events, such as festivals or farmer's markets, shows appreciation for the community's culture and fosters goodwill among residents.
Using polite language, saying 'please' and 'thank you', and being considerate of others' space and time are important aspects of respectful behavior in Essex Junction.
Safety
Tipping in Essex Junction
Ensure a smooth experience
In Essex Junction, Vermont, as in many parts of the United States, tipping is a customary practice, particularly in the service industry. It is generally expected that diners leave a gratuity of 15-20% in restaurants, depending on the quality of service. Tipping is also common for services such as haircuts, taxi rides, and hotel staff.
Payment practices in Essex Junction include a variety of options. Most businesses accept credit and debit cards, and there are also services available for mobile payments, such as Apple Pay and Google Wallet. Cash is still accepted, but contactless and electronic payment methods are becoming increasingly popular, especially since the COVID-19 pandemic.
Best Time to Visit
And what to expect in different seasons...
Spring (March to May) in Essex Junction brings mild temperatures and blooming flowers. Expect daytime temperatures ranging from the mid-40s to mid-70s Fahrenheit. This season is ideal for outdoor activities, local festivals, and enjoying the scenic beauty of nature as everything comes to life.
Summer (June to August) is warm and sunny, with temperatures typically in the 70s to low 80s Fahrenheit. It's the busiest season for tourism, with many outdoor events, farmers' markets, and festivals. Visitors can enjoy lakes, parks, and various recreational opportunities in the beautiful landscapes.
Autumn (September to November) showcases stunning foliage as the leaves change color. Temperatures range from the 50s to mid-70s Fahrenheit. This season is perfect for hiking, apple picking, and enjoying harvest festivals, with a cooler atmosphere conducive to outdoor exploration.
Winter (December to February) can be cold and snowy, with temperatures often falling below freezing. Expect daytime temperatures in the 20s to 30s Fahrenheit. This season is great for winter sports, including skiing and snowboarding at nearby resorts, and enjoying a cozy atmosphere with local winter celebrations.
Essex Junction at Night
Hiking in Essex Junction
Immerse in an unforgettable hike.
A popular hiking destination offering trails with beautiful views of Lake Champlain and the surrounding mountains. The summit is accessible via a moderately challenging 1.5-mile trail.
A historic farm and conservation area providing a network of trails along the shores of Lake Champlain. Trails vary in difficulty and showcase the farm's beautiful landscape.
An outdoor recreation area with a variety of trails suitable for hiking, mountain biking, and cross-country skiing. It offers scenic views and a family-friendly environment.
Located on an island in Lake Champlain, this park features trails that lead to sandy beaches and picnic areas, great for a relaxing day outdoors.
A city park in Burlington offering easy hiking trails and a lookout tower with panoramic views of the surrounding area.
A beautiful hike through a forested area leading to a stunning waterfall. The trail is roughly 1.2 miles long, suitable for families and nature enthusiasts.
Aiports
How to reach Essex Junction by plane.
The primary airport serving Burlington and the surrounding region, located approximately 5 miles from Essex Junction, Vermont.
Located about 95 miles from Essex Junction, this is the largest airport in Quebec, Canada.
Situated approximately 180 miles from Essex Junction, this airport serves the capital region of New York.
Located about 135 miles away in Connecticut, this is the second-largest airport in New England.
About 25 miles from Essex Junction, this airport serves both domestic and limited international flights.
Walkability
Demographics
Explore demographics in this area.
Predominantly white population, making up a significant majority.
A smaller percentage of the population identifies as Hispanic or Latino.
Includes a minority population of Black or African American residents.
Represents a small portion of the overall population.
Individuals identifying with two or more racial backgrounds.
Very small demographic presence in the region.
Extremely limited representation within the community.
Popular Sports
Explore popular sports in region.
Soccer is a popular sport in Essex Junction, with various youth and adult leagues providing opportunities for play and competition.
Basketball enjoys a strong following in Essex Junction, featuring school teams and community leagues for all ages.
Baseball has a long-standing tradition in Essex Junction, with little leagues and organized adult leagues hosting games throughout the summer.
Ice hockey is particularly popular in the winter months, with local teams participating in regional competitions.
Running, including road races and community fun runs, is a popular activity, promoting physical fitness and community engagement.
Traffic
Accomodations
Find the best place to stay when visiting Essex Junction.
Dietary Restrictions
Tips for restricted diets.
Many eateries in Essex Junction offer a variety of vegetarian and vegan dishes, ranging from hearty plant-based burgers to creative salads and smoothies.
Visitors with gluten restrictions can find a range of gluten-free offerings at select restaurants and cafes in Essex Junction, ensuring a diverse and satisfying dining experience.