72 Hours in St. Albans
Two nights and
Three Days in St. Albans
Located at the northeastern end of Lake Champlain, St. Albans offers visitors a little bit of everything. One of the fastest growing communities in Vermont, St. Albans has a rich history, dating back over 250 years. The historic and charming downtown is full of buildings featuring Victorian-era architecture and has largely been unchanged since the mid-1800’s, when St. Albans was a hub for shipping.
This area takes great pride in providing an unmatched sense of place for both residents and visitors, with its down-to-earth and welcoming community. There are many opportunities to experience, savor and adventure, including outdoors on Lake Champlain and in the Green Mountains. With a variety of things to see and do, use this itinerary to inspire your St. Albans getaway.
Visit At a Glance
These three days offer suggestions for things to do surrounding lodging, dining, shopping, and nearby attractions. Use this itinerary as a guide for further discovery – bookmark these locations and walk the downtown. Another great way to find a hidden gem is to ask a shop owner for their favorite local spot.
Key Points of Interest
- Day 1: Spend the day taking in the beauty of the region and Lake Champlain then enjoy a relaxing dinner and show downtown.
Spend the day taking in the beauty of the region and Lake Champlain then enjoy a relaxing dinner and show downtown.
– DAY 1
St. Albans Bay Marina
Walk along the expansive dock and along the shoreline of Lake Champlain. Take in the views of the Adirondack Mountains in New York to the south and relax listening to the sounds of the water.
The Depot
This venue hosts a variety of shows and events, including local bands, comedians, trivia nights and much more. Check their website for a full schedule of what’s playing during your visit.
Green Mountain Café
Located just outside of downtown, Green Mountain Café is the perfect stop for a hearty breakfast to bring with you to fuel your day exploring St. Albans.
Bayside Pavilion
Enjoy lunch across the street from St. Albans Bay Marina while watching the boats and enjoying the views of Lake Champlain. Sip on a perfectly crafted drink and fill up on something from their vast menu.
Mill River Brewing
Offering many styles of beer made with Vermont grown hops, stop by the brewhouse for a sample or take cans, growlers or quarts to go.
Jeff’s Maine Seafood
Cap off your first day in St. Albans at this local’s favorite fine dining restaurant and lounge. Jeff’s is known for its seafood, but the menu offers a variety of dishes to please everyone.
Back Inn Time
This beautifully restored Victorian Manor located downtown exudes charm and warmth. Relax on the covered porches and cozy up in an elegant guest room. Enjoy a full breakfast the next morning.
Kill Kare State Park
Located on the tip of St. Albans point, this state park is surrounded on three sides by Lake Champlain and offers incredible views, swimming, kayak and canoe rentals and picnic areas.
Burton Island State Park
Take the 10-minute trip aboard the Island Runner Ferry from Kill Kare State Park to explore the 253 acres and relax on this semi-remote island.
Explore St. Albans City and all the unique businesses in the downtown district.
– DAY 2
Taylor Park
Featuring one of Vermont’s largest downtown greens, this four-acre park is a great place for events and gatherings, or to relax under the trees.
Artist in Residence
This member gallery exhibits and sells the work of over 30 local artists and offers unique gifts, décor, education and cultural enrichment.
Rail City Market
Browse this neighborhood market featuring local gifts and specialty foods. Shop the local cheese, meat and hand-crafted candles and soaps.
St. Albans Museum
Learn the history of St. Albans at this award-winning museum, featuring seasonal exhibits and year-round educational and public programming.
The Eloquent Page
Featuring over 30,000 new and used books, this traditional bookstore offers something for everyone, including vintage postcards and maps.
Catalyst Coffee Bar
This boutique coffee shop serves ethically sourced, mindfully roasted, and precisely brewed coffee. Enjoy a drink and locally made granola bar to fuel your day.
Mimmos
Enjoy pizzas, salads, calzones and cold or hot heroes in-house or take them across the street for a picnic by the fountain in Taylor Park.
Twiggs
The first gastropub in St. Albans, Twiggs is a great place to relax and enjoy a great meal. Enjoy a Vermont craft brew off their extensive beer list, wine or a unique cocktail.
Hampton Inn St. Albans
Located in the heart of downtown, the Hampton Inn is the perfect home base for you to explore Main Street and beyond. Enjoy spacious guest rooms and free hot breakfast.
Spend your last day in the area exploring the outdoor recreation experiences St. Albans has to offer.
– DAY 3
14th Star Brewery Taproom
After a day exploring, stop by this veteran-owned craft brewery to quench your thirst. You’re bound to be hungry, so fill up on a grass-fed burger and specialty hand-cut fries from Grazers, located in 14th Star’s Taproom.
Missisquoi Valley Rail Trail
What was once a train line, this multi-use trail corridor starts in St. Albans and weaves its way through the Missisquoi Valley and Franklin County. Enjoy a short walk, or explore all the villages, farms, forests, fields and wetlands along the full 26.4-mile trail.
Hard’ack Rec Area
This all-season recreation area offers mountain bike trails, nature trails, cross country and snowshoe trails and a ski and snowboard hill. Grab a bite to eat from the seasonal snack bar and play a round of 18-hole disc golf. Enjoy a short walk along the 1.6-mile Aldis Hill loop, the perfect hike for a family trip.
About the Vermont Inspiration Guide
This itinerary comes from the Vermont Inspiration Guide through a partnership between the Vermont Department of Tourism and Marketing and the Vermont Chamber of Commerce. This free annual publication highlights Vermont’s restaurants, retailers, attractions, and outdoor adventures and can be ordered online along with other trip planning resources.