Planning a Fall Visit

The first six weeks are a critical time in the semester—students' academic and social experiences become patterns around this time, and your student will be able to share more of their experience with you. This is the perfect time for a visit to gorgeous Vermont!

If a visit makes sense for you, your student, and your family, we recommend coming to UVM Weekend. We have a full roster of on-campus and virtual events hosted by the UVM Foundation, Alumni Association, DOSA, and more. We encourage you to follow your student's lead. Spend time with them, meet their friends, visit their favorite places, and get to know our campus at your pace. For guidance (and perhaps some inspiration), we crowd-sourced some 'best of UVM' experiences organized by theme below.

Can't make it for UVM Weekend? That's okay! Send your student a care package through the UVM bookstore or enjoy this pre-recorded walking tour. Check out ideas for your visit any time of year.

 

Pick a Theme, Plan an Adventure: 

mountain top view

LAND

For families who love to be outside, exploring the land on campus and further afield promises boundary-less fun. 

Explore Land Options

  • Take a Hike - UVM Natural AreasThese natural areas are outdoor classrooms for students and go-to walking trails for community members. From the list, Centennial Woods is just down the hill from the Davis Center, East Woods is short, steap, and stunning (with a river running through it), and as our tallest peak, Mount Mansfield is the pinnacle of Vermont views.  Maps and guidance provided thanks to UVM's Environmental Program.
  • Go for a run, walk or ride - UVM 5K Loop: Runners or walkers welcome on this popular 5K loop. 
  • Take a Tour: If you're traveling with a potential future Catamount, UVM Admissions runs tours on the regular. Sign up in advance. 
  • Hit the trail - Trailfinder: This handy tool customizes results based on your skill level, interest (e.g. pet friendly), and location. 

 

basket of local food (tomatoes, lettuce, radish)

FOOD

Foodies have many options on campus, in Burlington and beyond. Bring your appetite! 

Explore Food Options

  • UVM Dining: Stop by for a meal on campus anytime! Our dining halls and retail locations have something for everyone. We're always happy to work with you to accommodate food allergies and dietary preferences - more information available on the UVM Dining website
  • Locally owned: From pho to farm and everything in between, this guide's got you covered. 

So many choices, so little time. Explore menus, reviews, and more on Seven Days Bite Club

 

Lake Champlain sunset

LAKE

Lake Champlain is an outdoor playground and an outdoor classroom. Learn and play at these spots.

Explore Lake Options

  • Bike paths: Local Motion maps you through routes, included the Burlington Bike Path. 
  • Boating: What floats your boat? Learn to love the lake with the Sailing Center or go cruising on the Spirit of Ethan Allen.
  • Paddling: Standing up or sitting down, paddling around can be a fun way to see town. 
  • Fishing: Head to the shore and hook a bass, perch, pumpkinseed or other lake dweller (but not, Champ!).
  • Echo MuseumFun for the family at this lake-side science center. 
  • Burlington Parks and RecreationEnjoy Burlington - pick a park, pickleball court, rec path, marina, garden, and more. 

 

student performing at royal Tyler theater

CAMPUS

Campus is in full swing, and families are welcome to enjoy events with their students. Some events may require tickets or advanced registration, so be sure to read the fine print or reach out to event organizers with questions or for accommodations: 

Explore Campus Options

  • UVM Athletics: Cheer on the Cats at a home game this fall. 
  • Clubs, events, activities: Don't be fooled by the name - there is so much to do on campus (and off), and UVM Bored is the place to go for info. 
  • Theater: Each fall the UVM Theater department hosts numerous performances - check out the calendar.
  • Lane Series: World-renown musicians from a variety of genres come to campus thanks to this year-long series.
  • Fleming MuseumDiscover new exhibits and permanent collection that span the ages. 
  • Public Art: Take a walking tour of campus to spot these masterpieces. 

 

CULTURE

Culture is a catch-all for some of the places you may find and seek inspiration on your visit.

Explore Culture Options

  • Flynn Theater: The curtain's up, the shows are back at this downtown venue - a Burlington classic. 
  • Burlington City Arts: Murals, museums, and more public art sponsored by this arts org. 
  • South End Arts DistrictThe South End is on the map for it's art, food, music, and small businesses. 
  • Higher GroundMusic and shows booked most nights of the week in venues around town. 

Hello Burlington walks you through all the best spots, just like a local would. 

 

students walking foals at the Morgan horse farm

FARM

At one point, Vermont had more cows than people. While some things have changed, our mission to support our agricultural heritage and land-grant mission has not.

Explore Farm Options

  • Wheelock Farm: Head over to the corner of Spear and Swift Streets and wander behind UVM's Wheelock barn. You'll find well-worn walking paths and beautiful cairns sculptures created by UVM custodian and artist JP Marton. Stuck in Vermont captures the person and the place in this video
  • Miller Farm and Research Complex and the Ellen A. Hardacre Equine Center: The College of Agriculture and Life Sciences (CALS) operates the Paul Miller Research and Educational Center on Spear St (just down the road from the gym). Wander down to visit the cows and maybe catch one of the CREAM students hard at work. UVM's equestrian riders also keep horses in the stables. 
  • The Morgan Horse Farm: Take a scenic drive towards Middlebury to discover the oldest, continuous Morgan horse breeding herd in the world. Established in 1878, this beautiful historic site is a working farm of 40+ Morgans that is open to the public May through October annually. 
  • The Horticulture Research and Education Center: This 97-acre property is home of the Catamount Educational Farm. Catamount Farm models sustainable farming practices through a working vegetable and fruit farm; where fresh apples are for sale on Friday afternoons during the fall! Students are integral in carrying out all activities on the farm, from planting to marketing.

 

Need some help?

Reach out to the Vice Provost and Dean of Students Office for guidance and support.  

Contact Us

 

Wondering what's happening on any given day? The students on the UVM Bored team keep tabs on this robust calendar and blog.

UVM Bored

 

UVM fall sports will be in full swing. Plan your visit to catch the Cats in action. 

UVM Athletics