The semester is picking up, and the warmth of the summer is starting to fade; we know the feeling. Just because the temperatures are cooling down doesn’t mean your adventures have to! Many parks, museums, and sites in the surrounding Burlington area are waiting to be explored. As a Champlain College student or employee, you can borrow passes to parks and museums around Burlington, often free or discounted, right from the front desk!

ECHO Leahy Center

An interactive science and nature museum dedicated to sharing the joy and wonder of discovery! Exhibits range from a peek into the legend of Champ, Lake Champlain’s famous lake monster, to a head-start program that gives baby turtles a strong start in life.

Price without the pass/discount as of September 25, 2026:

• Toddler (ages 0-2 years): Free
• Youth (ages 3-17 years): $20 per person
• Adult (18+ years): $23 per person
• Student/Senior (60+ years): $21 per person

What you will pay with the pass: $7 per person admission for up to four people

The Vermont State Parks

Vermont is a beautiful state with a system of 52 state parks. If you are looking to explore parks that are a further distance from Burlington, click here.

• Punch cards: Each punch is free admission for one person! If you want to go with a group, make sure to check out enough cards. These punch cards are eligible for any Vermont State park.

Prices without the punch card as of September 25, 2026:

• Small Child (ages 0-3 years): Free
• Children (ages 3-14 years): $20 per person
• Adult (14+ years): $5 per person

What you will pay with the punch card: Free!

Niquette Bay Park

There are hiking trails leading to Lake Champlain, designated swimming spots, and fishing options! 

• 20-25 minute drive from Champlain College Campus

Sand Bar Park

Numerous picnic tables and grills throughout the park, and there is beach access to Lake Champlain. There are also volleyball nets and paddleboards to rent. 

• 20-30 minute drive from Champlain College Campus
• Includes wheelchair access to the beach (for more accessibility information, click here)

Vermont Historical Sites

Step back in time by exploring the historic sites of Vermont! The Vermont Division for Historic Preservation offers twelve different sites across the state. The nearest site is the Ethan Allen Monument, located right here in Burlington.

Prices without the pass as of September 25, 2026:

• Varies across sites

What you will pay with the pass: Free entry! (Up to eight people in one vehicle!)