The weather in the Lake Champlain Region has made a turn for the sunnier side and, if you’re like me, you are looking for any excuse to enjoy Mother Nature’s nicer side. One way to do this is to grab your favorite lunch and head to the Crown Point State Historic Site on the shores of Lake Champlain.
If you are a fan of delicious, high-quality grinders, visiting Marinelli’s Meats and Italian Market is a must-do. Marinelli’s offers a wide variety of “create your own” grinders, and several signature sandwiches named after their Italian heritage. Upon entering the market, you can’t help but notice the array of products available. Not only do they feature a bustling sandwich counter, but they also have a meat case that is fully stocked thanks to their on-site butcher. You can also grab a variety of Italian goods including frozen pasta, fresh breads, sauces, dried pasta, oils, and some gift items such as cookbooks and utensils. Talk about a one-stop shop! If you don’t have time to wait for your grinder to be made on-site (although their service is quick and friendly), you can take advantage of their online ordering system via their Facebook page. However you order, these sandwiches will not disappoint!
With lunch in hand, it is a quick hop, skip, and jump (or 15–20 minute car ride) to the Crown Point State Historic Site. The entrance to the grounds leads you past the picnic pavilion, which can be reserved in advance for private parties of up to 50 people. The pavilion is a great option to eat lunch, and if the weather is accommodating there are picnic tables and benches available near the water with beautiful views of Lake Champlain and Vermont. Picnicking on the shoreline is incredibly relaxing. You can hear the water as it hits the shoreline, there is ample space for children to run around and play (as they inevitably abandon their lunches for more fun activities), and in addition to watching boaters enjoy Lake Champlain, you can also watch traffic as it crosses the beautiful Lake Champlain Bridge.
Whether you are a history buff, or just looking to enjoy some beautiful scenery exploring the grounds of the Crown Point State Historic Site, this landmark is a great way to walk off a filling lunch. The site is home to 2 forts from the colonial wars between the British and the French. The ruins of Fort St. Frederic and Fort Crown Point have been preserved and the marked historical signs turn a leisurely walk into an educational experience. If you are interested in more in-depth information be sure to check out the on-site museum which is accessible for a small fee.
In addition to the two forts, the Crown Point State Historic Site also features several walking trails along the grounds. You are welcome to explore the grounds on your own or follow the trails. A map of the trails can be found here.
Also located in this area are the Champlain Memorial Lighthouse and the Crown Point State Campground. Both offer great views of Lake Champlain and are wonderful additions to any stroll.
The Lake Champlain Region is rich in history and has a wide variety of restaurants and eateries that can offer a fantastic to-go picnic lunch. If you would like more information on area restaurants and attractions visit the Lake Champlain Visitors Center in the historic toll collector's house directly across the road from the Crown Point State Historic Site.
