November 1, 2024 can be a quiet day of the week as families wind down from trick-or-treating, and...
Living in the Northeast Kingdom of Vermont, we cherish the summer season that brings daylight from 5am to 9pm. The clear lake waters beckon as blue skies meet the mountain ranges that surround our towns and village centers. With over 48 towns included in the NEK, there is plenty to explore and do all around us!
(We're not the only ones with ideas - check out CowMoo's bingo on the getNEK'd website to win swag for completing activities around the NEK.)
1. Have a Creemee
Yes, that is the Vermont way to spell the name of the sweet frozen dairy treat we know and love. While which creemee stand has the best recipe is an ongoing debate, April's Maple in Canaan is the Northern-most creemee stand that has garnered state-wide recognition for one of the best maple creemees around.
Other creemee stands include:
But these are just a few of the delicious local stands serving up Vermont's best summer dessert! Ask around for recommendations to find a new hidden gem.
2. Visit a New Lake
The fresh waters in the NEK can bring all kinds of adventure and fun. Whether you fish, swim, kayak, or just want to bask in the beauty, here are some ideas to get out and near the waters this summer.
Our favorite lake activities this year include:
- Take a cruise on the Northern Star - Lake Memphremagog
- Hike Mt Pisgah - Lake Willoughby
- Rent a Paddleboard or Kayak - Crystal Lake
- Family Friendly Fishing - Newark Pond
3. Enjoy a Museum Day
Visiting a museum is a great way to beat the summer heat, escape a summer storm, or simply learn more about a local place!
The Old Stone House Museum in Brownington offers a look into the history of Alexander Twilight, his pupils, and features oddities and collections from other Vermont figures. You are welcome to walk the perimeter of the property for a lovely field loop during good weather. If you're lucky, you might even score some complimentary ice cream during your visit!
St. Johnsbury has two well-known museums that are well worth a visit. The Fairbanks Museum and Planetarium offers natural science exhibits and live tours of the skies above. The St. Johnsbury Atheaneum is a private, nonprofit public library and art gallery, welcoming visitors for self-guided tours of the galleries, to browse the libraries resources, or attend events for adults and children alike.
In the Newport/Derby area, two histories can be found. The Goodrich Memorial Library features local specimen and artifacts of Newport life right on Main Street. On weekends, you can meet the local historians at the Derby Historical Society for rich stories and fascinating images of Vermonters from years past.
The Museum of Everyday Life is a quirky must-see on the side of Rt 16 in Glover. Nearby, the Bread and Puppet Theatre Museum showcases over 50 years of puppets, masks and artistry that has inspired generations.
4. Support Local
All of the ideas listed above help to support local business, non-profits and organizations. The best part about supporting local entities? You never know when you'll meet a new neighbor or friend!
