The little city
Vergennes claims to be one of the smallest incorporated cities in the United States — barely a square mile — yet it packs in history and charm above the falls of Otter Creek. Chartered in 1788, it served as a naval shipyard during the War of 1812, building the fleet that won the Battle of Plattsburgh.
The Maritime Museum
At nearby Basin Harbor, the Lake Champlain Maritime Museum tells the lake’s long story — Revolutionary and 1812 naval history, centuries of shipwrecks preserved in the cold deep water, and a full-size sailing replica of the gunboat Philadelphia. Hands-on exhibits and boat-building make it a family favorite.
Falls, dining & the lake
Vergennes' compact downtown sits above a dramatic waterfall, with a walkable Main Street of restaurants and shops. From here the Champlain shoreline — Button Bay and Kingsland Bay State Parks — is minutes away for swimming, paddling and sunset views.
A valley base
Between Middlebury and Burlington, Vergennes makes a quiet, characterful base for exploring the northern Champlain Valley and the lake’s eastern shore.
Good to know
What is the Lake Champlain Maritime Museum?+
A Basin Harbor museum near Vergennes covering the lake’s naval history and shipwrecks, with a replica 1776 gunboat.
Why is Vergennes notable?+
It’s one of the smallest cities in the US and a former War of 1812 naval shipyard, set above an Otter Creek waterfall.
What’s nearby on the lake?+
Button Bay and Kingsland Bay State Parks for swimming, paddling and sunsets.