Winter Adventures

You're in Vermont, February has just begun, the temperatures are dropping, and you don't ski. Now what? First of all, don't panic! While we may be outside less than we are in September, Saint Mike's does not go underground for the winter, and neither does Burlington. There are still plenty of things to do - you may just need to wear more clothes while doing them. As I said in my last post, a hockey game can be fun, but in case they are away the week you're looking for something to do, here are a few more options. 

In case you missed it - we are officially in snow season!

1. Adventure Sports Program 
If you don't ski but still want to get in some outdoor exercise, sign up for the Adventure Sports listserv or stop by their office (basement of Alumni Hall). We offer snowshoe hikes, ice-climbing excursions, and - if you're truly adverse to venturing outside - paddlesports practice in the pool. Adventure Sports programs usually cost between $5 and $15, and equipment is always included. If you don't mind some physical activity, check them out!

2. Burlington Winter Lights 
Church Street decorates for Christmas, but starting in February, Church Street lights up for the winter! This weekend is the official Winter Lights event, with the lights going on this Friday and other events happening Saturday, but the lights stay on past that. Another cool feature is that different stores on Church Street will sponsor ice carvings, which will also go out at that time. Even if you cannot make it down this weekend, the lights are worth the busride. While you're there, warm up with something from Leunig's Petit Bijou, which opened New Year's weekend and has quick kiosk service with excellent food.

Winter Lights - 2016

3. Coffee Shops 
You may or may not know this, but Burlington falls into that rare category of places where Starbucks and local coffee shops can coexist peacefully. I am still finding new places to visit and each offers something different. As you may know from previous posts, Uncommon Grounds is where I discovered my beloved maple latte. Last weekend's town excursion included my first visit to Muddy Waters, which takes a "zen" environment to another level. This weekend, I hope to make it to New Moon Cafe, which I am told has good breakfast. That's only three places; there are quite a few more that I hope to visit before I graduate. Whether you want a different place to do homework for a few hours or you just really need that caffeine fix, take your pick - they will all be good. 

A glimpse of the Muddy Waters aesthetic 

Latte art will always be classic.

Burlington has a lot to offer during the winter, and so does Saint Mike's! Take my short list and run with it; there are other sports to watch, places to visit, and restaurants to try. These are what I would recommend doing, but don't be afraid to go out and just explore - I found a free local cheese tasting that way just last week. 
Laura