Just about anywhere in Vermont is a great place to simply take a nice walk. Take in Burlington Harbor or drive out of town and take a walk in the woods. It's peaceful and relaxing. For some good music, check out Higher Ground in South Burlington.

Posted By Jon - The DC Traveler on October 1, 2007, 10:01 AM

Enjoy eating in local, non-chain restaurants. Sit at the counter when possible and talk to the locals. They can tell you intertesting and often off-beat things to do and see. Have some Ben and Jerry's everyday.

Posted By Howard Chud on October 1, 2007, 11:09 AM

Take a boat ride across Lake Champlain. Even in winter it's beautiful, and there may still be leaves changing, depending on when you go. And visit Ben and Jerry's!

Posted By Amy E on October 1, 2007, 11:17 AM

You have to visit the Vermont Teddy Bear Company and Ben & Jerry's! I'd recommend also visiting Lake Champlain, Shelburne Farms, and many of the covered bridges around the area.

Posted By Beth on October 1, 2007, 11:23 AM

Burlington has a lot of fun shopping. You can also take a drive to North Hero which is a very nice area and very scenic.

Posted By sheila on October 1, 2007, 11:24 AM

On your way to & from stop
at the Vermont Country
Store & see the huge display
(among other things) of
old-fashioned candy. Their
prices might be high for
some things but their
restaurant (separate bldg on
grounds) is quite reasonable.

Located in the tiny town of
Weston which has a great
theatre (in season).

Posted By Rhea on October 1, 2007, 11:36 AM

It's not a problem if you're not into winter sports such as skiing or snowboarding. In November, it's unlikely there will be any snow. However, if you want to get outdoors, I'd suggest a walk, run, or biking on the 7.6 mile bike path on the Lake Champlain shorline, or a hike up either Mount Philo (short and easy) or Camel's Hump (longer and more challenging). Both are within easy driving distance of Burlington and offer outstanding views. For shopping and great food, check out the Church Street Marketplace (http://www.churchstreetmarketplace.org/). Burlington has a huge arts scene, so check out one of the many art studios around town or the Vermont Hand Crafters Fine Craft & Art Show from November 15-18 in South Burlington(www.vermonthandcrafters.com).

Posted By Janine on October 1, 2007, 11:37 AM

The Shelburne Museum is very interesting and unique. It has a large collection of buildings and other items (like a covered bridge and steamboat) spread over many acres. There is a great collection of wooden horses and many other collections in various buildings. They brought in a house that has all of it's walls stenciled. I think that the lady that started this collected anything people wanted to sell her! It is 10 miles from the Burlington Airport and worth the trip.

Posted By JUDY C on October 1, 2007, 11:44 AM

Downtown Burlington has that very quaint, walkable shopping district---lots of stores, and a restaurant that the students of Vermont's Culinary Arts run completely---very good food, very relaxing pace. It's worth it! Also, UVM is in downtown---there's sure to be events going on for the students and the public---student art show, or film festival, worth a quick visit to their website (or phone call). Also, enjoy the tour at Vermont Teddy Bear Company, or a visit to Shelburne Farms for Americana folklore and history.

Posted By Tala Henry-Halabi on October 1, 2007, 11:53 AM

Hi Sarah, I've lived in the Burlington area for over 30 years. Fun things in Nov.? Try RiRa's Irish Pub on Church St. Have your friend get tickets to whatever is playing at the Flynn Theater or Higher Ground. Visit the Fleming Museum on Colchester Ave. on the UVM campus. See if you can get tickets to a basketball game or hockey game at UVM. Walk the Church St. Market Place and window shop. Maybe the Christmas lights will be up if it's late Nov. Take a drive around the area. Do you ice skate? Bring your skates to open skate times at Cairn's arena in South Burlington or Leddy Park in Burlington. Ride the CCTA bus round trip to anywhere in the area to see what the area is like. If it were summer or early fall I'd recommend Sunday brunch or dinner any night on the Spirit of Ethan Allen boat. Watch the sunset on the lake from the Boat House or waterfront park. If there's no snow, grab a bike and take a ride on one of the bike paths in the area. Is that enough to do? Nancy

Posted By Nancy on October 1, 2007, 11:56 AM

Tour the Ben & Jerry's factory! I did this a long time ago and it was fun. They let you sample ice cream at the end of the tour and you can buy seconds at their factory store.

Posted By Dave Taube on October 1, 2007, 11:57 AM

Burlington, VT is home to one of America's hidden heroines, Tasha Tudor, illustrator, artist and all around persona. Her life style has been documented in many books and documentaries. see: http://www.tashatudorandfamily.com/About_Us.htm for more information.

You MUST take the ferry over and visit Lake Placid. A wonderful town and beautiful scenary. The history of America's forestry industry is infiltrated throughout the small towns around lake placid.

Mary Rule-Nerge-Elliott

Posted By Mary Elliott on October 1, 2007, 1:44 PM

I've never been-but I understand there is a culinary school there that is one on of the tops in the country and they do a class then a dinner. It might be in montpelier-but it depends on how far you want to go (not that far and a super experience form what I hear).

Posted By judy on October 1, 2007, 1:54 PM

I recommend a trip to Ausuable Chasm.

Posted By Brad on October 1, 2007, 1:58 PM

One good bet is to check the schedule at the Flynn Theatre,
http://www.flynncenter.org/calendar/calendar.asp?m=11&y=2007

The ferry from Burlington to Port Kent is closed in November, but two shorter ferry rides are still open. Check http://www.ferries.com

Unfortunately the Shelburne Museum closes for the season on October 28th. But, on your way to the Teddy Bear Factory in Shelburne, stop and walk around Shelburne Village. There are a number of nice shops including the Shelburne Country Store and the Shelburne Arts School Gallery. Lunch or dinner at the Bearded Frog, la Bistro, or dinner at Cafe Shelburne all are great.

Posted By Jim Stillman on October 1, 2007, 2:31 PM

Have dinner at the Essex Inn; run by the New England Culinary Institute. They also have culinary weekends from time to time where you can take classes.

Posted By Connie on October 1, 2007, 2:56 PM

After all the place mentioned, I'd like to add the Magic Hat micro brewery, just south of Burlington on hwy 7, Great beers, lots of samples

Then there is the Rock of ages granite quarry near Barre. Quite interesting, too

Posted By Bill Kramer on October 1, 2007, 3:03 PM

The Burlington Pottery Works has some great American Stoneware Pottery and a Shop that is interesting to visit.

Posted By Don Watkins on October 1, 2007, 3:37 PM

The downtown Burlington pedestrian mall is one of my favorite places to spend an afternoon. Lots of unique and interesting shops, good food and good people watching. If you like chocolate, stop at Sweetwater's restaurant for their chocolate cake.

Posted By Annie on October 1, 2007, 4:15 PM

Everything they said plus the
Echo Center, down by the ferry dock. It has an aquarium and lots of information and displays about the lake.

Posted By d lear on October 1, 2007, 4:37 PM

Take a campus tour at University of Vermont.

Posted By Lydia on October 1, 2007, 5:43 PM

For something different try The Birds of Vermont Museum
www.birdsofvermont.org.
This is an interesting natural history museum based on one man's wood carvings of all the state's birds. There is also a bird sanctuary/nature preserve for bird viewing.

Posted By Laura on October 1, 2007, 6:49 PM

On the main pedestrian street of Burlington is a restaurant run by the New England Culinary Institute. Drop in; order some of the creative and delicious dishes, and relax. If you are alone, sit at the counter and watch the cooks prepare meals directly in front of you! Prices are reasonable and the food is excellent.

If you have a car and the weather cooperates, drive east to Jeffersonville to the Bryan Gallery (www.bryangallery.org) to see some original art. The gallery was founded in honor of Mary Bryan, a painter, by her husband, also an artist, and showcases Vermont painters and sculptors.

Posted By Rita on October 1, 2007, 7:36 PM

Make a day trip to the Stowe, VT area and enjoy a marvelous dinner at the Trapp Family Lodge, established by Maria Von Trapp and her family when the emigrated to America. It is an interesting area and you'll enjoy lovely scenery along the way!

Posted By Karen Shepard on October 1, 2007, 8:22 PM

Go visit ECHO, the waterfront water-oriented hands-on museum. It's a blast for all ages. Drive up to Grand Isle Ferry and take a ride -- and think of the fantastic history associated with this corridor: without winning battles on Lake Champlain in the 1700s and 1800s, there would be no USA.

Posted By marti walker on October 1, 2007, 8:29 PM

If you have a photography interest, stop by and visit with the folks at Lezot Camera. Nice, knowledgeable, and (should you need any product or repair) reasonably priced.

Posted By Joe Eder on October 1, 2007, 9:29 PM

Visit Burlington Breakwater North and Burlington Breakwater South. These are two relatively new (2002-ish) lighthouses which are replicas of lighthouses wiped out in storms.

Also, there's a great sushi restaurant there: Sakura Japanese Restaurant. Go there. You won't be disappointed.

Posted By Brett on October 1, 2007, 10:04 PM

Having family growing up in Burlington and the surrounding towns I have to say Richmond is the most beautiful all american little New England town I have ever seen. They have the Huntington Gorge which is breathtaking and quaint.

Then in Burlington I must start the day with breakfast at Henrys diner, which is a local favorite (mine now too) and then a stroll down Church street for a shopping excursion..I love Vermont!

Posted By laurel on October 2, 2007, 1:43 PM

Pick up some Green Mountain Coffee and visit the Magic hat Brewery in South Burlington for some great beer tasting! Have fun! ;)

Posted By christine on October 2, 2007, 7:31 PM

To the above, I'd add gravitating toward the lake (Champlain) at any time of year. The Burlington Bike Path is good for walking, but especially interesting in November around Oakledge Park--walk to the handicap-accessible Treehouse and then past the Pavilion heading north toward Blanchard Beach. Soon the Earth Clock comes into view. Sit a while (benches provided) before heading further north to the Burlington Waterfront. Dress warmly!

Posted By Radetta Nemcosky on October 3, 2007, 7:45 AM

Eat cheese!! Then buy some to take home with you. Vermont makes the very best sharp cheddar you will ever munch.

Posted By Judy on October 3, 2007, 11:39 AM

OMG! You don't like winter sports? November-May IS winter in VT! Go there in summer or early fall! Try a warmer climate in Nov.
Trish

Posted By Trish on October 4, 2007, 1:11 AM

the local art scene in burlington is quite varied with lots of pottery in beautiful colors. pick up an unusual hostess gift for those up-coming holiday parties.check out the boat ride availability and have brunch aboard in a toasty cabin.bring lots of layers so you will be comfortable walking outdoors.

Posted By katherine on October 6, 2007, 11:31 PM

I can't believe no one has mentioned Hope cemetery just outside Burlington in Barre. Visit a cemetery on vacation? You'll see why when you visit the website.

Posted By Jim S. on October 8, 2007, 2:18 PM

I have lived in VT a long time and one of my favorite things to do is go to the Warren Store and have lunch out on the back deck. When you are finished drive the Commons Rd to Fayston and visit the shops there, they are owned by two sisters. One is all Christmas ornaments and the other is a beautiful toy store.You could also see if they are still doing the glider rides at the Warren air strip.I did it once along time ago and it was a blast! I also reccomend going to Stowe. I love Cold hollow Cider Mill. And if that isn't enough for the day dinner at the Whip in the Green Mountain Inn is so warm and cozy it is not to be missed or the little ice cream shop out behind it! There is also a cool country store there if you are into that sort of stuff.

Posted By Victoria N on October 8, 2007, 6:45 PM

Definitely take in Church Street Marketplace. They have some of the neatest stores. And I agree with all of the above comments-- tour the Ben and Jerry's factory and the Vermont Teddy Bear Company. I don't think I would recommend Ausable Chasm over the lake in NY. Not in winter!

Posted By Keri Sprenger on October 8, 2007, 9:17 PM

Also, you may want to check out Lake Champlain Chocolates. They have a factory tour at the Pine St. location. Try their hot chocolate! Frog Hollow on Church St. sells nice Vermont crafts. Other restaurants you might want to try include: Vermont Pub & Brewery, A Single Pebble and Three Tomatoes Trattoria.

Posted By Amy on October 8, 2007, 10:40 PM

Burlington will probably be dark and blustery in November..... bike path is wonderful (along lake); overlook park with amazing views of the lake and mts. on Spear Street; NECI is no longer on Church St (Culinary Inst.); Trattoria Delia is a cozy Italian restaurant downtown; American Flatbread is warm and cozy with good pizza; Stowe is always lovely and quintessential Vermont; several great breakfast places downtown: Magnolia, and Penny Cluse Cafe. Daily Planet is the restaurant/bar with great music and energy. Enjoy!

Posted By Gail on October 15, 2007, 12:10 PM

I don't thing that there is anyone place in Vt. that isn't beautiful at anytime of the Year! No matter where you are in Vermont you will always find something you can enjoy do. I have covered pretty much all of the State and have always be able to find something fun to do. From visiting castles to antique to camping, hiking, fishing, or shopping! No matter where you are in the state there are fun and wonderful things to do. Just ask any local they will tell you what there is and how to get there.

ENJOY!!!!

Posted By flo on October 15, 2007, 12:57 PM

Go to American Flatbreads for the best flatbread pizza ever! They use mostly local ingredients and the brewery is delicious! Try their Medicine Wheel pizza with squash ale! Next door is Pacific Rim, that has tasty noodle bowls for cheap! Skip the Vermont Teddy Bear Factory. You can make your own teddy here in VT, but the products actually come from China, not really a VT teddy in my book. Do the micro brews, if you like beer, Burlington is the place to be...they are all within walking distance. Like tea instead of beer? There is this awsome teas house called Dobra right off the always fun Church Street. They have a huge book that not only lists tons of teas, but gives you information on where and how the tea is grown. The setting itself is very peaceful with little tables, or you can sit un pillow under a canopy! You can smoke from their hookas outside if you're into that. If you travel a little out of Burlington to the Waterbury/Stowe area you won't be dissappointed. On Waterbury Stowe Rd, there are a bunch of fun and yummy things to do. Go to the Cabbot Annex and sample over a dozen savory cheeses. Stop at the Cider Mill and taste fresh cold cider and cider doughnuts. Across the way is a winery with decent wine, but beware...I have bought several bad bottles from there. Ben and Jerry's is always a treat and the tour is very entertaining, even for younger ones! Visit the Alchemist for another good brewery and dinner, or even shoot some pool! I hear close by there is a soda pop factory, which sounds fun, but I've never been....YET! There is too much to do!!! As a college student in Johnson State, I can truly say Vermont has a little something for everyone, whether you love food, art, beer, or music. I love all of the above!!!

Posted By LaRissa Perks on October 15, 2007, 2:24 PM

Go just a little bit north of Burlington to North HEro and do a Bike Vt. bike trip. IT's the best of all worlds! You get exercise at your own pace, fresh air, beautiful fall (or whatever season you go) folage, and incredible meals at a bed & breakfast. You can eat what you want since you exercise during the day!

Posted By Patti Whonsetler on October 15, 2007, 10:21 PM

Vermont is beautiful no matter what the time of year is. Don't miss the South End of Burlington on Pine Street and Flynn Avenue for a wonderful array of shops including wine, food, art and antiques.

Posted By Mary on October 22, 2007, 1:34 PM