5 Places to Get Away Without Getting Away This Winter 2021
While we are still in a global pandemic, many of you may be itching to get away, but getting out and enjoying the beautiful winter in Burlington does not need to be a big to do. There are plenty of things to do nearby that are convenient and safe and can feel like you are getting away without really having to.
Relax and Renew
The Essex Resort and Spa – 70 Essex Way, Essex Juntion, VT
Spa at The Essex is the only full-service, freestanding spa in the Burlington area, and offers products by Hydrafacial, Kevin Murphy, Caudalie, and Comfort Zone for a high-end spa experience.
At The Essex, you can enjoy the tranquil essence of Vermont. The extraordinary and friendly staff are there to lead the way and provide a professional experience and a passionate commitment to ensure you get the experience you desire.
A Day Lost in a Local Bookstore
Phoenix Books- 191 Bank Street, Burlington, VT
At Phoenix Books Essex, Burlington, and Rutland, they love their customers and communities. They support other local stores, authors, and artists. They are eager to help you find your next great read or great gifts for even the most challenging folks on your list! Phoenix Books Burlington is open daily for public browsing, Monday through Saturday, 10 a.m. to 7 p.m., and Sunday, 11 a.m. to 6 p.m. Phone ordering/curbside pickup is available during store hours.
Volunteer Your Time
City of Burlington – 149 Church St, Burlington, VT
There is a variety of way to volunteer with the city of Burlington. Of Course, any nearby municipality and/or nonprofit has volunteer opportunities, so the city of Burlington encourages you to choose the spot/cause that’s important to you.
Local opportunities include:
- Fletcher Free Library
- Burlington City Arts
- Burlington Parks, Recreation, & Waterfront
- Burlington Community Justice Center
- Neighborhood Planning Association Meetings
- United Way of Northwest Vermont
- Green Up Day (annual event)
- Spring Move Out Project (annual event)
For more info, click here.
Bring Your Dog Out for a Scenic Stroll
Red Rocks Park – 4 Central Ave, South Burlington, VT
This 100-acre park is open for public use year-round. The beach is open to the general public. There are several miles of trails for hiking, jogging, snowshoeing, and cross-country skiing.
Amenities include:
- 700 feet of waterfront
- Designated swimming area
- Picnic area with small gazebo
- 2.5 miles of pedestrian trails
- Scenic overlooks
- Access to the recreational path
- Restrooms and changing areas
- Parking
Under the “Leash Law” enacted by the City Council, all dog owners must have their dog on a least (6-foot max) at all times within the boundaries of Red Rocks Park and trails. Dogs are prohibited at the public beach and in the water at Red Rocks.
Don’t Even Leave the couch! Take an Online Course on Your Favorite Topic
University of Vermont – 85 South Prospect St, Waterman building, Burlington, VT
The Osher Lifelong Learning Institute (OLLI) at UVM is a community of adult learners who enjoy year-round courses and events that are diverse, interesting, fun, and affordable.
OLLI at UVM seeks to engage the minds, stimulate the senses, and foster learning through a wide range of classes, programs, travel opportunities, and social activities.
Additionally, OLLI’s online distinguished speaker series kicks off on Jan. 27, 2021, through April 21, taking place on Wednesdays from 1 to 2:30 p.m.Individual lectures are $10 each. Lectures include:
- The Climate Crisis: Where Do We Stand?
- The Abenaki World: Animacy, Identity, and Personhood
- The Happiest People
- Racial Disparities in VT: From Real Data to Radical Empathy
- Current Controversies in Public Health & Public Health Policy
- Two Decades of Vladimir Putin’s Kremlin Rile, 2000-2020
- Paris 1914: French Women Composers and Their Music
Article based on: 5 Places to Get Away Without Getting Away this Winter 2021by Best Of Burlington.