Book cheap flights to Lake Champlain

138,593+ reviews on trustpilot logo

Popular destinations near Lake Champlain

Flights to Burlington, United States
Flights to Plattsburgh, United States

Visiting Lake Champlain

Why visit Lake Champlain

Lake Champlain provides a diverse regional escape, perfect for those seeking outdoor activities like boating, swimming, kayaking, or fishing. History enthusiasts can delve into sites such as Fort Ticonderoga, offering glimpses into early American conflicts. The mountainous setting invites hiking and biking, notably along the Adirondack Coast. Families find summer ideal, while nature lovers and leaf-peepers are drawn to the vibrant fall foliage from mid-September through October. Explore charming lakeside towns like Burlington, Vermont, known for their local food scenes.

Plan your visit

For optimal outdoor fun, visit Lake Champlain in July and August when the water is warm for swimming and festivals abound. To avoid crowds and enjoy vibrant fall foliage, the shoulder season from September to October is ideal; swimming is still possible early in September. A weekend to five-day trip allows exploration of both New York and Vermont sides. Consider combining your visit with Burlington, Vermont, or Montreal, Quebec, an hour north. Nearest airports are Plattsburgh International (PBG) and Burlington International (BTV); a car is essential for exploring this expansive region.

Last updated

Key facts and getting to Lake Champlain

Find the key travel facts for visiting Lake Champlain, including the nearest airports, transport options, the best time to visit, and other essential information to help you plan your trip.

Airports
  • Burlington International (BTV)
  • Plattsburgh International (PBG)
Getting there
From Burlington International Airport (BTV), Lake Champlain is about 7 minutes by car or 15 minutes by bus. From Plattsburgh International Airport (PBG), it's approximately 29 minutes by car or 1 hour 48 minutes by bus, with ferries also available across the lake.
Typical visit duration1-2 days
Best time to visitMay to August (late spring and summer) and September to October (fall)
Cheapest month to flySeptember
CurrencyUnited States Dollar (USD)
LanguageEnglish

Extras. Complete your trip in one place.

Explore Extras

Frequently asked questions

Where is Lake Champlain located?

Lake Champlain is located on the border of the United States (Vermont and New York) and extends into Quebec, Canada. It is situated between Vermont's Green Mountains and New York's Adirondack Mountains.

What are the top things to do in Lake Champlain?

Top activities in Lake Champlain include boating, kayaking, sailing, and hiking. Visitors can also explore historical sites, cultural attractions, and charming lakeside towns.

Why is Lake Champlain famous?

Lake Champlain is famous for its historical significance, particularly its role in the American Revolutionary War and the War of 1812. It is also recognized as the eighth largest naturally occurring freshwater lake in the United States.

Is Lake Champlain worth visiting?

Lake Champlain is considered worth visiting due to its rich history, natural beauty, and diverse range of activities. Travelers often combine a visit to the lake with exploring the surrounding Green Mountains of Vermont.

When is the best time to visit Lake Champlain?

The best time to visit Lake Champlain for outdoor activities is during July and August due to warm weather and suitable water temperatures for swimming. The period from September to October is ideal for viewing fall foliage.

How many days do you need in Lake Champlain?

A 2-night stay is suggested for an initial experience in Lake Champlain. However, visitors can easily spend more days exploring the area due to the abundance of activities and attractions.

What is the weather like in Lake Champlain by season?

In summer, Lake Champlain has warm weather with highs around 27 C (80 F). Fall brings cooler air, with highs from 15 to 22 C (59 to 71 F). Winters are cold with significant snowfall, and spring sees the lake thaw.

How far is Lake Champlain from the nearest city?

Burlington, Vermont, is the main gateway city for Lake Champlain, located approximately 1 kilometer from the lake. A local bus service travels between the lake and downtown Burlington in about 2 minutes.

Can you visit Lake Champlain without a car?

Yes, it is possible to visit Lake Champlain without a car, particularly if focusing on the Burlington area. Public buses connect Burlington International Airport to downtown, and ferries transport passengers across the lake.

Airports for Lake Champlain

Flights to cities near Lake Champlain

Other places to explore

Download our app

Start your next adventure now. Download our app and explore cheap flights effortlessly!