Essex Junction is a small town in northern Vermont. With a population of just over 9,000 people, it is a bustling community with a vibrant downtown offering a variety of shops, restaurants, and attractions. The town is bordered by the Winooski River, and is home to the historic Champlain Mill, which has been a cornerstone of the local economy since the 19th century. There are also many parks, trails, and lakes within Essex Junction, making it an ideal spot for outdoor activities and exploration.
1. Essex Junction Parks and Places for a Walk on a First Date
For a leisurely stroll and a chance to take in some scenic views in Essex Junction, you and your date could visit Robinson Park. The park offers a variety of trails, ranging from easy and level to more adventurous, as well as access to the Winooski River. You could also hike up the Cascade Mountain Trail, which offers some of the most spectacular views in the region. Alternatively, if you and your date are feeling a bit more adventurous, you could try mountain biking or kayaking on the nearby Lake Champlain.
2. Places for a Coffee Date in Essex Junction
Essex Junction is home to some great coffee shops for a casual first date. The Foam Brewers is a popular spot with a cozy atmosphere and a variety of locally roasted coffees. Another great option is the Great Northern Coffee Roasters, which has a warm and inviting atmosphere and delicious espresso-based drinks. For an especially unique experience, you can try the Church Street Café, which is set in a converted church and is home to some wonderful pastries and desserts.
3. Essex Junction Galleries, Museums and Exhibitions to Visit on a Date
Essex Junction may be small, but it has some great cultural attractions for a date. The Leahy Library at Essex Junction is home to a collection of books, films, and other audio-visual materials. The library also hosts occasional exhibitions from local and international artists. Alternatively, you could visit the Fanny Allen Gallery and browse their selection of local art. If you’re looking for something a bit more outdoorsy, you could take a stroll through the Champlain Mill Artwalk, which is a 1.5 mile outdoor sculpture walk.
4. Live Music and Entertainment to Invite Your Date To In Essex Junction
Essex Junction is a great place to take a date to experience live music and entertainment. The Town Hall Theater regularly hosts live music and theater performances, ranging from classical to rock and roll. If you’re looking for something a bit more low-key, you could try the Old Stone Church in Essex Junction, which hosts occasional acoustic performances and open mic nights. For a more traditional performance venue, you could visit the Flynn Center for the Performing Arts which is home to a variety of Broadway shows and concerts.
5. Essex Junction Pubs, Bars or Restaurants for a First Date Drink or Food
Essex Junction has a great selection of pubs, bars, and restaurants for a first date drink or meal. For a casual evening, you could visit the Skinny Pancake for some crepes and craft beer, or head to the Winooski Cidery for some craft ciders. For something more upmarket, you could a reservation at the Essex House Restaurant, which serves up an impressive menu of classic and modern dishes. For a more intimate atmosphere, you could try the Publyk, which offers an extensive selection of craft beers, wines, and cocktails.
6. Other Date Ideas To Try In Essex Junction
If you’re looking for something a bit different, there are plenty of other date ideas to try out in Essex Junction. For a unique outdoor experience, you could visit the Essex Skating Facility, which offers an outdoor skating rink and a variety of other activities. You could also visit the New England Maple Museum, which offers educational tours and tastings of local maple syrup. For a bit of culture, you could take a stroll through the Historic Westford Village, which is a restored and preserved village with a variety of historic buildings to explore.
