Want to make the most of what’s left of summer but strapped for cash? Saving up for that expensive ski pass this winter? No problem! We can help you with that. Here are some fun, free or inexpensive activities to occupy your time in Chittenden County, enjoy!
Green Mountain Audubon Center
Do you enjoy the great outdoors and all it has to offer? Wonderful! You picked the right place to go. This wonderful, natural experience is donation-based and perfect for Vermonters of all ages. With over 100 species of birds, a dense wetland ecosystem, and a beautiful display of trees, how could you go wrong? Come see for yourself!
http://vt.audubon.org/green-mountain-audubon-center
Church st. Marketplace
Sure it’s pretty easy to blow through your savings by shopping on Church st., but walking the award-winning open air mall is free! With a variety of events from street performers, to concert series, to group yoga, this hub of activities can’t be missed!
http://www.churchstmarketplace.com
Food tour of Waterbury
It’s no secret that Waterbury is becoming a hot spot for dining in Vermont. But how do you experience this for yourself, on a budget? Simple! Give yourself a tour. Starting at the Ben & Jerry’s factory, you can take an in-depth half hour tour and learn all things ice cream. The tour is only $4 for adults, and free for kids under 12! And best of all, the tour includes plenty of ice cream samples.
http://www.benjerry.com/about-us/factory-tours
Not enough dairy for you? Head on down to the Cabot Annex. Here you can find all sorts of cheese samples, local cheese products, and more. Here they offer samples of all kids of unique cheeses like horseradish and hot habanero!
https://www.cabotcheese.coop/cabot-annex-store
Next up, is Cold Hollow Cider Mill, where you can wash all that down with some fresh Vermont apple cider. Here you can try some of their Vermont-made cider and watch how it’s made. Not a fan of cider? They also have a wide variety of maple products, and don’t forget a cider donut for the road! Their donuts were named one of the country’s four best donuts by Gourmet Magazine- and that’s nothing to sneeze at.
http://www.coldhollow.com/about/
Magic Hat Brewing Company
Last but not least for our 21+ crowd, is the famous Magic Hat Brewery. Located in South Burlington, the brewery offers free guided and self-guided tours, and you can even bring your dog! Try some samples, learn about craft beer, and enjoy the friendly atmosphere that this Vermont staples has to offer.
