Saint Albans s a charming small town nestled in the picturesque northwest corner of the state of Vermont. The town was named after St. Albans in Hertfordshire, England. The area was originally inhabited by the Abenaki people. The first European settlers arrived in the late 18th century.
The town of St. Albans was officially chartered in 1763. In the early 19th century, St. Albans became an important center for the manufacture of carriages and wagons, and it later became a railroad hub.
With a rich history, a vibrant community, and stunning natural beauty, it’s no wonder that this town is a popular destination for both locals and visitors alike. Whether you’re a history buff, a nature lover, or just looking for a relaxing getaway, Saint Albans has plenty to offer.
Here are the best 15 things to do when you visit Saint Albans, VT:
Things to do in Saint Albans, Vermont
1. Visit the St. Albans Historical Museum
If you’re interested in the history of Saint Albans and the surrounding area, the St. Albans Historical Museum is a must-see. The museum is housed in a historic brick building that was once a U.S. Customs House and Post Office.
It features exhibits and artifacts related to the town’s rich history, including the St. Albans Raid, the railroad era, and the town’s industrial past.
Located in the heart of downtown, this museum showcases artifacts and exhibits that tell the story of the town’s rich history, including displays on railroads, agriculture, and the early settlers of the area. The museum is open from May through October, and admission is free.
2. Explore the Missisquoi National Wildlife Refuge
The Missisquoi National Wildlife Refuge is a stunning natural area located just a few miles outside of Saint Albans. Covering over 6,000 acres, the refuge offers the chance to explore a variety of habitats, from wetlands to upland forests.
There are several hiking trails throughout the refuge, as well as opportunities for birdwatching, fishing, and hunting (in season). The refuge is open year-round, and there is no admission fee.
3. Take a scenic drive on Route 2
If you’re looking for a scenic drive, Route 2 is hard to beat. This highway winds its way through the heart of the Green Mountains, offering breathtaking views of the surrounding countryside.
Along the way, you’ll pass through quaint small towns, rolling hills, and pristine forests. Whether you’re driving in the summer or the fall, this route is a must-see.
4. Visit the Vermont Maple Festival
Every April, Saint Albans hosts the Vermont Maple Festival, a celebration of all things maple. This three-day festival features everything from maple syrup tastings to pancake breakfasts to a parade.
There are also a variety of vendors selling maple-themed products, as well as live music and other entertainment.
Whether you’re a die-hard maple lover or just looking for a fun weekend event, the Vermont Maple Festival is not to be missed.
5. Walk along the St. Albans Bay waterfront
The St. Albans Bay waterfront is a beautiful place to take a stroll and soak up some of the town’s natural beauty. There’s a walking path that runs along the water’s edge, offering stunning views of Lake Champlain and the Adirondack Mountains beyond.
There are also several parks along the way, as well as a beach and marina.
Whether you’re looking for a peaceful afternoon walk or a place to enjoy a picnic lunch, the St. Albans Bay waterfront is the perfect spot.
6. Visit the Taylor Park Farmers Market
If you’re a fan of local food and products, the Taylor Park Farmers Market is the place to be.
Held every Saturday during the summer in Taylor Park, this market features a variety of vendors selling fresh produce, baked goods, crafts, and more.
There’s also live music and other entertainment, making this a fun and festive event for the whole family.
7. Go fishing on Lake Champlain
Lake Champlain is known for its excellent fishing, and Saint Albans offers plenty of opportunities to cast a line.
Whether you’re looking to catch trout, bass, or something else, there are plenty of spots to choose from.
There are also several fishing charters in the area if you’re looking for a more guided experience.
8. Explore the Rail City Bike Trail
The Rail City Bike Trail is a 3.5-mile paved trail that runs from Saint Albans to Swanton, offering beautiful views of the surrounding countryside and passing through wetlands and forested areas.
The trail is open year-round and is perfect for biking, walking, or running.
9. Visit the St. Albans City Pool
The St. Albans City Pool is a great place to cool off on a hot summer day. The pool features a diving board, a water slide, and plenty of space for swimming and lounging. There’s also a snack bar on-site, making this a fun and convenient spot for a family outing.
10. Attend a performance at the St. Albans Community Arts Center
The St. Albans Community Arts Center is a hub of artistic activity in the town, offering a variety of classes and workshops as well as performances and events.
From theater productions to live music to art exhibits, there’s always something happening at the Arts Center.
11. Take a tour of the Twig Farm cheese-making operation
Twig Farm is a small family-run farm that produces some of the best artisanal cheeses in the region. You can take a tour of the cheese-making operation and learn about the process of creating these delicious cheeses. There’s also a farm store on site where you can purchase Twig Farm cheeses and other local products.
The cost for a tour of the Twig Farm cheese-making operation is $10 per person, and it includes a guided tour of the farm, a cheese tasting, and a chance to meet the goats and other animals on the farm.
Tours are available from May through October, with specific dates and times announced on the Twig Farm website and social media pages.
It is recommended to make reservations in advance to ensure availability and to confirm the tour schedule. The farm is closed to the public during the winter months, from November through April.
12. Visit the Vermont Toy Museum
The Vermont Toy Museum is a charming destination located in Quechee, Vermont, which is approximately 110 miles southeast of St. Albans, Vermont. The museum is dedicated to preserving the history and nostalgia of toys from different eras.
The museum has a collection of over 100,000 toys, games, and other memorabilia that dates back to the 19th century.
The Vermont Toy Museum was established in 1992 by a husband and wife team, who had been collecting toys for years.
The Vermont Toy Museum is open from 10:00 am to 5:00 pm, seven days a week, from May through October. During the winter season, the museum is open on weekends only.
13. Enjoy a meal at 14th Star Brewing Company
4th Star Brewing Company is a microbrewery located in Tomball, Texas, that offers a range of craft beers, as well as a selection of food and snacks.
Here can enjoy a variety of hand-crafted beers, including IPAs, stouts, and seasonal brews, all made with high-quality ingredients and a commitment to traditional brewing methods. The brewery also offers a selection of non-alcoholic beverages, including sodas, iced tea, and bottled water.
The brewery frequently hosts food trucks and other vendors, offering visitors a chance to sample a variety of local and regional cuisine.
14. Take a trip to nearby Burlington
While Saint Albans has plenty to offer on its own, nearby Burlington is also worth a visit.
This vibrant college town is home to a variety of shops, restaurants, and attractions, including the popular Church Street Marketplace, the ECHO Leahy Center for Lake Champlain, and the University of Vermont.
15. Go apple picking at Hackett’s Orchard
In the fall, apple picking is a popular activity in the Saint Albans area. Hackett’s Orchard is a family-owned orchard that offers a variety of apples, as well as cider donuts and other treats.
What is more interesting is that you can pick your own apples and enjoy the crisp autumn air and beautiful foliage.
Plus, the entrance is free, but for more updated information you should better check their official Facebook profile.
Conclusion
In conclusion, St. Albans is a charming town with a rich history and a strong sense of community. St. Albans is more than just a historical town. Its vibrant downtown, cultural institutions, and natural beauty make it a thriving community with something to offer everyone. All in all, St. Albans is a truly special place that combines the best of Vermont’s past and present.
