Lake Champlain is one of the largest inland lakes in the United States. The lake is 120 miles long, and stretches south from Canada into New York and Vermont. The lake's enticing blue waters, lovely bays, secluded islands and miles of shoreline are perfect for water sports. Popular activities include boating, fishing, swimming, waterskiing, and windsurfing. The lake even has a resident sea monster, Champ, who may make an appearance during your visit!
Burlington, Vermont's largest city, is on the eastern shore of Lake Champlain and is host to many summer festivals and celebrations. Kids will love the Shelburne Museum, which is located on US 7 in Shelburne. The Museum is actually a living historical village displaying the heritage of New England with an 1830 one-room school house, railroad station, old-time general store, 1890's jail, and a print shop. The circus building and toy shop are family favorites, along with the Family Activity Center. The Center features specially-themed tours for children 5 and older and their parents. There are also weekly kids' workshops during the months of July and August. North Beach is Burlington's best place for swimming, rollerblading, biking and walking.
If you seeking a great family-friendly resort on Lake Champlain, look no further than The Tyler Place. Located directly on a mile of lakefront in Highgate Springs, The Tyler Place offers a beautiful 165-acre setting, a wealth of activities, and exceptional children's programs. Many of the recreational programs center around the Lake, with canoeing, sailing, and waterskiing being among the favorites. On land, you'll find tennis courts, biking, and a variety of art classes available. Families have a choice of accommodations, ranging from cottages, lodges, or pleasantly-decorated rooms at the Inn. Guests are treated to three bountiful meals each day, and the food is fabulous.
We visited The Tyler Place in years past and experienced the magic of this resort first-hand. The majority of the parents we met had been to The Tyler Place several times and couldn't say enough wonderful things about this family destination. Much of the resort's appeal has to do with the sense of "family" it creates, the wide variety of activities offered, and its extensive array of children's programs. This place had us under its spell in no time!
Eight separate kids programs are available for babies, toddlers, school-age children and teens. Each morning, children and parents separate for their own activities. This gives parents a chance for some private time, or to enjoy a wide choice of outings or activities. Kids flock off to meet with their counselors and play with children of their own age. The resort offers eight separate children's programs, serving infants through senior teens. Kids take part in their children's programs in the morning, and again for dinner and evening activities. For parents who prefer one-on-one or more individualized care, parent's helpers are also available (for a fee) to take care of children in the morning, help at mealtimes, or babysit in the evenings. "At last, I have a chance for my own vacation!", a mother of two children under five told me. "My husband and I would never consider going anywhere else!" Given the popularity of this resort and its extremely loyal guests, make your reservations early.
Another family-friendly resort on Lake Champlain is the Basin Harbor Club. This 700-acre property located directly on the lake was established by Ardelia Beach in 1886 and has remained in the family to this day. The resort offers 138 guest rooms and cottages, golf, water sports, an outdoor heated pool, fitness center, grass airport, beautiful gardens, and an extensive children's program.
For more information on Lake Champlain, call the Chamber of Commerce at (802) 863-3489. To learn more about The Tyler Place, call (802) 868-3301 or visit: Tyler Place Family Resort. For more information on Basin Harbor Club, call (800) 678-8946 or visit their website: Basin Harbor Club.
