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Top 24 Hotels Near Essex Junction Skating Facility
2 Educational Dr Essex Junction, VT 5452
Spark by Hilton Essex Junction Burlington
Essex Junction Skating Facility is an easy drive from Spark by Hilton Essex Junction Burlington, a fact that ensures the journey there is as simple as the stay itself.
Guests visiting Hilton notice polished reception desks, clear signage, and concierge support, details that simplify arrival processes. Each guest room delivers mini-fridges, coffee makers, and comfortable bedding, supporting convenience and nightly relaxation easily. At the meeting facilities, flexible layouts, conference tables, and audiovisual equipment provide practical convenience for groups.
Guests enjoy fitness centers, hot breakfast, valet parking, and outdoor seating, finding dependable comfort during every trip.
The Essex Resort & Spa
For guests in Essex Junction, The Essex Resort & Spa is a short drive from Essex Junction Skating Facility, a spot that supports a variety of travel plans.
The Essex Resort & Spa often greets guests with a refined entrance, courteous doorman service, and elegant lobby seating for arrivals. Rooms often highlight elegant design details, upscale bedding, and spa-style bathrooms that enhance a refined and comfortable experience. Amenities may include refined restaurants, polished cocktail lounges, and fitness centers that reinforce an upscale guest experience.
Guests may encounter premium bedding, rooftop lounges, Wi-Fi, and concierge service, creating flexibility across leisure and business needs.
Hawthorn Extended Stay by Wyndham Williston / Burlington
The uncomplicated drive from Hawthorn Extended Stay by Wyndham Williston / Burlington to Essex Junction Skating Facility in Essex Junction keeps the connection between the two uncomplicated and fast.
Ambient music and balanced lighting set a composed Wyndham lobby tone, easing travel stress as guests shift into unpacking and rest. Each guest room places easily accessible USB and standard outlets near beds and desks, keeping devices charged for meetings and navigation. Fitness clubs house elliptical trainers, strength machines, and individual TVs, keeping personal workouts on schedule even during busy trips.
Free Wi-Fi, conference suites, grab-and-go markets, baggage hold, parking access, and pet relief areas make multi-team scheduling calmer and easier.
La Quinta Inn & Suites by Wyndham Williston / Burlington
From La Quinta Inn & Suites by Wyndham Williston / Burlington, Essex Junction Skating Facility is an uncomplicated drive, a choice that makes for an uncomplicated start to the day.
Reception desks at La Quinta are placed in clear sightlines, supporting orientation clarity and easing stress during check-in. Guest rooms present branded bath products, fresh towels, and showers, creating consistent refreshment and clarity every day. Breakfast counters with buffets, cereals, and coffee stations deliver predictable clarity, reinforcing La Quinta’s brand consistency.
Complimentary breakfast, Wi-Fi, and pools combine with fitness facilities and parking, delivering clarity and consistency each day.
Home2 Suites by Hilton Williston Burlington VT
For guests in Essex Junction, Home2 Suites by Hilton Williston Burlington VT keeps Essex Junction Skating Facility within easy reach, a position that supports a variety of travel plans.
With pet-friendly welcome touches at reception, Home2 Suites shows care for families traveling with animals, easing arrivals smoothly. Every suite contains sofa seating, dining tables, and entertainment systems, offering multi-use areas that balance work and leisure. In the fitness area, treadmills, dumbbells, and mats support routines, letting wellness-focused travelers maintain daily balance.
Guests enjoy pools, fitness centers, breakfast service, and Wi-Fi, creating dependable routines that support wellness and comfort.
Vermont Suites
The uncomplicated drive from Vermont Suites to Essex Junction Skating Facility in Essex Junction guarantees the commute is always efficient before the stay unfolds.
Vermont Suites often provides quick check-in, parking close to the entrance, and a simple lobby space focused on practical convenience. Accommodations may include Wi-Fi, ergonomic chairs, and compact desks, supporting both productivity and comfort while traveling. Public areas typically include breakfast rooms, vending access, and seating clusters that sustain consistency for overnight visitors.
Guests may encounter Wi-Fi, modest breakfast, guest laundry, and parking, reflecting the functional style of budget accommodations.
Quality Inn Colchester - Burlington
From Quality Inn Colchester - Burlington, Essex Junction Skating Facility is a direct run, a detail that makes the entire area feel more accessible.
Quality Inn positions charging nooks and small work surfaces near seating so quick emails and itinerary checks fit into arrival routines. Each guest room pairs crisp linens, extra pillows, and supportive mattresses with blackout treatments to promote restorative sleep between days. Business support desks handle parcel acceptance, printing, and small supplies, simplifying event logistics and last-minute materials on site.
Parcel acceptance and simple office supplies at some locations let small teams manage shipments and presentations without leaving the property.
Hampton Inn Colchester
Essex Junction Skating Facility is an uncomplicated drive from Hampton Inn Colchester, a setup that ensures travel logistics are always straightforward.
Community tables throughout Hampton Inn lobbies support connection, helping colleagues or companions coordinate travel plans together. Every guest room offers microwaves, mini-fridges, and coffee makers, letting travelers enjoy dependable convenience for meals and drinks. Outdoor pools with shaded tables, loungers, and towel racks create welcoming spaces, encouraging leisure and social energy together.
Complimentary internet, indoor pools, breakfast buffets, laundry access, and self-parking provide dependable routines for all stays.
Motel 6 Colchester VT - Burlington
From Motel 6 Colchester VT - Burlington, Essex Junction Skating Facility is a direct run, a choice that makes for an uncomplicated and well-placed stay.
Motel 6 creates calm arrival zones by separating movement paths from seating, helping lobby traffic stay organized at busier hours. Each guest room incorporates small desks or tables with chairs, supporting laptop use, reading, or meals without requiring shared spaces. Coffee stations by reception remain visible throughout the day, reminding travelers of the courtesy whenever they pass the front desk.
From outdoor pools and vending areas to Wi-Fi and pet-friendly rooms, properties balance recreation, refreshment, and inclusivity daily.
Residence Inn by Marriott Colchester
For a visit where a simple drive is key, Residence Inn by Marriott Colchester keeps Essex Junction Skating Facility an uncomplicated drive, making travel a manageable task.
Hydration stations placed near seating clusters at Residence Inn let travelers refresh comfortably, softening arrival stress with practical touches. Each suite offers microwaves, coffee makers, and dining tables, letting guests enjoy quick meals or snacks with convenient homelike comfort. Evening reception lounges with complimentary beverages, light fare, and lounge chairs offer guests dependable hospitality every evening.
Complimentary breakfast, rooftop pools, Wi-Fi connectivity, concierge services, and business centers provide premium convenience daily.
Holiday Inn Express South Burlington Downtown by IHG
In Essex Junction, Holiday Inn Express South Burlington Downtown by IHG is situated a simple cross-town drive from Essex Junction Skating Facility, a spot that gives value to the guest experience.
Lobby spaces at Holiday Inn Express include communal seating and long tables, offering guests versatile hubs for work or conversation. Guest rooms are arranged with branded bath amenities, showers, and towels, refreshing travelers and sustaining daily routines. Fitness facilities with cardio machines, free weights, and mirrors enable travelers to maintain wellness and balance away from home.
Free Wi-Fi, hot breakfast, and laundry support connect with pools and meeting spaces, ensuring predictable routines throughout trips.
Fairfield Inn by Marriott Burlington Williston
From the lobby of Fairfield Inn by Marriott Burlington Williston, Essex Junction Skating Facility is a direct run with no stress, simplifying your visit.
At the lobby, Fairfield Inn groups soft seating, work nooks, and charging hubs within sight of reception for quick, usable pauses. Guest rooms offer flat-screen TVs, comfortable seating, and reliable Wi-Fi, giving travelers both entertainment options and connectivity daily. Breakfast rooms highlight hot buffet selections, fruit, and baked goods, ensuring mornings begin with clarity and dependable variety daily.
Guests enjoy indoor pools, hot breakfast options, self-parking, and Wi-Fi, creating dependable balance that supports both leisure and business travel.
Best Western Plus Windjammer Inn & Conference Center
Essex Junction Skating Facility is within easy reach of Best Western Plus Windjammer Inn & Conference Center, a benefit that allows the hotel to serve as an easy-to-navigate base.
Lobby coffee or hydration points may be offered by Best Western, providing small resets that help late arrivals settle before elevators. Guest rooms, with pillow variety, breathable linens, and steady climate, help muscles recover so wake-ups feel steadier across consecutive nights. Rooftop terraces at select hotels may host seating and views, translating city context into short, restorative pauses between commitments.
With dining lounges where present, Wi-Fi, fitness access, and parking, evenings combine unwind and routine without losing next-day focus.
Delta Hotels by Marriott Burlington
The benefit of a direct drive to Essex Junction Skating Facility renders Delta Hotels by Marriott Burlington into a starting point for a day of easy transitions.
Guests entering Delta Hotels encounter concierge desks and open layouts, cues that reduce stress while supporting orientation clarity. Suites feature hardwood finishes, stocked minibars, and sofa seating, combining comfort and style with reliable convenience. At the outdoor pool, loungers, shaded seating, and towel service create consistent spaces for relaxation and recharge across visits.
With 24/7 markets, pet-friendly policies, fitness centers, and self-parking, travelers experience daily convenience with flexibility.
Homewood Suites by Hilton Burlington
From Homewood Suites by Hilton Burlington, Essex Junction Skating Facility is a direct run, a detail that makes for an uncomplicated start to the day.
Homewood Suites hosts its evening social with light snacks and beverages, giving guests a consistent ritual that eases the start of stays. Suites are designed with refrigerators, stovetops, and cookware, allowing families to cook easily and maintain healthy meal routines. Guests in the breakfast area can choose cereals, pastries, and hot selections, starting mornings with clarity and dependable variety.
Indoor pools, hot breakfast, meeting spaces, and laundry facilities allow guests to manage both work and leisure without disruption.
Sonesta ES Suites Burlington VT
From Sonesta ES Suites Burlington VT, Essex Junction Skating Facility is an uncomplicated drive, a feature that makes for a smooth transition from hotel to event.
Sonesta presents reception areas with practical amenities, clear pathways, and friendly faces, giving arrivals a confident and calm beginning. Guest rooms offer restful beds, kitchen appliances, and Wi-Fi, supporting guest autonomy and consistent comfort during multi-day stays. Meeting rooms include Wi-Fi connectivity, modular tables, and AV support to facilitate seamless, productive gatherings for work or collaboration.
From parking, complimentary Wi-Fi, breakfast areas, pools, business support, and laundry, guests access dependable comfort and convenience daily.
Courtyard by Marriott Burlington Williston
Because Courtyard by Marriott Burlington Williston keeps Essex Junction Skating Facility within easy reach, guests can opt to begin their day with a simple commute.
Courtyard positions its Market within easy view of reception, ensuring families can grab drinks for kids without leaving the lobby. Suites incorporate sofa seating, large TVs, and work counters, creating multifunctional layouts for leisure and productivity needs. The 24/7 Market with bottled drinks, sandwiches, and packaged snacks provides practical convenience to guests at all hours.
With outdoor pools, meeting facilities, Starbucks® service, and Wi-Fi, professionals balance productivity with relaxation easily.
Comfort Inn & Suites South Burlington near University
The hotel's spot an uncomplicated drive from Essex Junction Skating Facility gives Comfort Inn & Suites South Burlington near University guests a simple way to engage with their surroundings.
When guests arrive, Comfort Inn front-desk staff share local directions and transit pointers to help travelers orient quickly. Standard guest rooms combine supportive pillows, crisp linens, and mattress comfort to foster restorative sleep before early meetings or long travel days. Breakfast areas organize stations for hot items, pastries, and fruit, creating a clear day-start rhythm without slowing departures.
With meeting rooms, AV support, strong Wi-Fi, event parking, and catering options, sessions start on time and wrap with minimal fuss.
Anchorage Inn
Within Essex Junction, Anchorage Inn keeps Essex Junction Skating Facility a simple drive, a detail that delivers a sense of connection to the place.
Guests at Anchorage Inn may be greeted with cozy interiors, warm staff attention, and complimentary artisanal coffee or tea. Guest rooms often present curated décor, premium bedding, and bathrooms with boutique finishes for a polished experience. Facilities often provide stylish cocktail bars, small libraries, and farm-to-table restaurants for a boutique-forward experience.
Guests may encounter Wi-Fi, boutique breakfast, laundry facilities, and yoga mats, ensuring boutique routines remain consistent.
DoubleTree by Hilton Burlington Vermont
This convenient commute to Essex Junction Skating Facility allows DoubleTree by Hilton Burlington Vermont to be a convenient anchor before the on-site experience starts.
DoubleTree’s complimentary cafe taps and signature cookie layer hospitality touches that provide ease and familiarity from the front door. Suites feature mini-fridges and microwaves, giving guests convenient options to store light groceries or prepare simple meals in-room. Club lounges serve snacks and beverages throughout the day, recognizing loyalty members while providing balance and exclusivity.
Free Wi-Fi, USB charging hubs, buffet breakfast, meeting rooms, and airport shuttle combine to simplify work, travel, and orientation daily.
Green Mountain Suites Hotel
From Green Mountain Suites Hotel, the simple drive to Essex Junction Skating Facility is a core benefit for a grounded visit before the day begins.
Green Mountain Suites Hotel often greets guests with boutique décor, intimate seating areas, and complimentary refreshments in the lobby. Guest rooms may highlight eclectic interiors, premium bedding, and curated minibars that emphasize a stylish boutique orientation. Amenities may include artisanal coffee shops, eclectic lounges, and intimate dining rooms that underscore boutique guest hospitality.
A stay may include Wi-Fi, EV charging, artisanal snacks, and laundry support, reinforcing boutique practicality for modern travel.
Hilton Garden Inn Burlington Downtown
When your visit to Essex Junction is centered on Essex Junction Skating Facility, Hilton Garden Inn Burlington Downtown's location a simple drive away allows for a seamless daily plan.
Lobby coffee and tea service at Hilton Garden Inn provides simple courtesy, offering guests warmth and familiarity during their transition. All guest rooms provide blackout curtains, premium mattresses, and quiet climate systems, ensuring restorative sleep across each stay. Breakfast spaces with fresh fruit, omelets, and community tables provide dependable hospitality that anchors guest routines each morning.
Complimentary breakfast, outdoor pools, business centers, Pavilion Pantry offerings, and Wi-Fi connectivity support seamless routines.
Hotel Vermont
At Hotel Vermont, Essex Junction Skating Facility is a simple drive, a core element that connects the hotel to the area's highlights.
At Hotel Vermont, arrivals may include warm greetings, curated design elements, and complimentary tea or coffee for guests. Accommodations often include artisanal décor, plush linens, and boutique bathrooms designed for a personalized guest experience. Shared spaces often highlight co-working areas, curated cocktail bars, and art-forward lounges that frame a boutique-style retreat.
Accommodations often showcase Wi-Fi, family dining, laundry services, and bike rentals, aligning routines with boutique hospitality.
Courtyard Marriott Burlington Harbor
The journey from Courtyard Marriott Burlington Harbor to Essex Junction Skating Facility is an uncomplicated drive, a benefit that adds to the overall sense of convenience.
Guests arriving to Courtyard encounter straightforward signage and friendly desk cues, details that make orientation feel confident. Each guest room presents ergonomic seating, ample outlets, and fast Wi-Fi, supporting professionals with reliable setups. Guests in the lobby seating areas encounter modular furniture, bright décor, and open layouts, promoting comfort and conversation.
Amenities include business hubs, complimentary Wi-Fi, The Bistro dining, and laundry services, providing convenience every day.
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Essex Junction Skating Facility Local Area Guide
Welcome to the Essex Junction Skating Facility, a hub for ice sports and community events located in the heart of Vermont. This guide is designed for players, coaches, families, and visiting teams to help you navigate your visit, from arrival to departure. We’ll cover practical tips on getting to the facility, on-site logistics, nearby dining options, and what to expect in different seasons. Our goal is to make your trip smooth and enjoyable, whether you're here for a tournament, practice, or a recreational skate.
Area contextNeighborhood Overview – Essex Junction Skating Facility (Essex Junction, VT)
Nestled in the scenic Champlain Valley, the Essex Junction Skating Facility is situated within a well-planned community known for its access to essential services and recreational opportunities. The facility is located just off I-89, making it a convenient destination for those traveling from within Vermont and beyond. Major access routes like Route 15 (Herrick Street) and Route 2A (Vermont Avenue) converge nearby, providing straightforward entry points. Parking is ample and clearly marked around the facility, designed to accommodate a high volume of visitors during peak seasons and events. The nearest major airport is Burlington International Airport (BTV), located approximately 8 miles southwest, typically a 15-20 minute drive depending on traffic. Public transportation options are limited in Essex Junction itself, so many visitors rely on personal vehicles or rideshare services for transfers from the airport or local accommodations. For smooth arrival, aim to reach the facility at least 30-45 minutes before scheduled ice times, especially on weekend mornings or during popular public skate sessions, to allow ample time for parking and check-in.
Lodging contextWhere to Stay Near Essex Junction Skating Facility
The Essex Junction Skating Facility is surrounded by a mix of residential areas and community amenities, with lodging options concentrated a short drive away in Essex Junction and the neighboring city of South Burlington. While there are no hotels directly adjacent to the facility, many visitors find convenient stays within a 2-5 mile radius, putting them just a few minutes from the ice. These areas offer a range of accommodations from budget-friendly motels to more established hotel chains. Teams and families often choose locations that offer easy access to both the skating facility and local dining or shopping. Due to the popularity of the facility for leagues, tournaments, and public skating, hotel demand can spike during event weekends. It’s highly recommended to book accommodations well in advance, especially if traveling during the fall, winter, or spring months when ice sports are at their peak. Utilizing map filters to search for hotels within a 3-5 mile radius of Educational Drive is a practical approach to finding suitable lodging.
View nearby hotels Quick Plan EssentialsQuick-Plan Overview
- Burlington International Airport (BTV) is 8 miles away, a 15-20 minute drive for arriving teams and families.
- Arrive 30-45 minutes early on event days to secure parking and manage check-in smoothly.
- The nearby Essex Shopping Center offers casual dining and shops for a quick break or meal.
- The Essex Resort & Spa provides a more upscale indoor option for relaxation or dining if weather is poor.
- Designated team areas and the main lobby offer comfortable spots for groups to regroup between sessions.
Game Day Flow
Check-In & Warm-Up
Upon arrival, your first stop should be the main entrance for team check-in, where you can confirm your ice time and locker room assignment. Familiarize yourself with the facility layout, noting the location of restrooms and concessions. Locker rooms are typically assigned based on event schedules, so ensure your team gathers their gear efficiently to make the most of your pre-ice time. Warm-up areas, which may include designated dry-land spaces or open concourse areas, should be utilized to prepare players physically and mentally. Pay attention to the schedule board for any updates or changes to ice times. It’s wise to have players ready to step onto the ice at least 5-10 minutes before their scheduled start to maximize usage.
Mid-Day Regroup
Between games or practice sessions, finding a comfortable place to regroup is essential for maintaining team morale and energy. The main lobby area provides ample seating, and many groups opt to utilize outdoor spaces or nearby parks if weather permits. If your team needs to eat, consider pre-ordering food or visiting nearby establishments that can accommodate larger groups. For families supporting players, this is a good window to grab a snack, use restrooms, or review upcoming schedules. Keeping hydrated and fueled is key, so plan your break accordingly. Some events may designate specific team gathering zones, so check with event organizers for details.
Wrap-Up & Departure
As your final ice session concludes, allow time for proper cool-down and stretching. Locker rooms should be vacated promptly according to facility rules to allow for cleaning and preparation for the next group. Ensure all personal belongings and team equipment are accounted for before exiting. If you have booked accommodations nearby, this is a convenient time to check out or prepare for your departure. For those continuing their journey, consider the typical traffic patterns around the facility during peak exit times, which might be slightly heavier on weekend evenings. A final sweep of the locker room helps ensure nothing is left behind.
Things to Do Near Essex Junction Skating Facility
Walkable
Essex Skating Facility Rink
The Essex Junction Skating Facility itself is the primary draw for many visitors, offering well-maintained ice surfaces for hockey, figure skating, and public skating. The facility hosts various leagues, tournaments, and open skate sessions throughout the year, making it a central point for ice sports enthusiasts in the region. Whether you're participating in a game, practicing drills, or enjoying a family skate, the rink provides a dedicated space for all your ice-related activities. Check their schedule in advance for public skate times or to see if any local teams are playing during your visit.
On siteChamplain Valley Exposition
Adjacent to the skating facility, the Champlain Valley Exposition grounds serve as a hub for various community events, fairs, and markets throughout the year. While not always active with sporting events, it offers a large open space that can be pleasant for a brief stroll or for kids to burn off energy before or after a skate. Depending on the season, you might catch a local festival, farmers market, or car show, adding a different flavor to your visit. Its proximity makes it an easy add-on for a short walk without requiring a significant time commitment away from the main purpose of your trip.
Essex Junction · 0.6 mi5–15 Minutes Away
Town of Essex Parks
Several town parks are located within a short drive from the skating facility, offering green spaces for relaxation and outdoor activity. Fuller Park and Brownsville Park are good options for families looking for playgrounds or open fields where younger children can play. These parks provide a nice contrast to the indoor environment of the rink, allowing for fresh air and casual recreation. They are ideal for a picnic lunch or a post-game cooldown on a pleasant day, offering a chance to stretch legs and enjoy the Vermont scenery.
Essex Junction · 1.5 miVermont National Guard Museum and Training Site
For those interested in history and military exhibits, the Vermont National Guard Museum offers a unique educational experience. It showcases artifacts and displays related to Vermont's military history, from the Civil War to modern conflicts. It’s a quiet, informative outing that can be a good option for a brief visit before or after an event, providing a glimpse into the state's service members and their contributions. Check their operating hours as they can be limited.
Colchester · 2.5 miBeyond the Event: Beyond immediate attractions, the broader Burlington metropolitan area offers extensive recreational, historical, and cultural sites. Consider exploring the waterfront in downtown Burlington, visiting the ECHO, Leahy Center for Lake Champlain, or browsing the shops along Church Street Marketplace. These options are generally 15-20 minutes away by car and provide diverse activities for extended stays or family downtime.
Dining & nightlifeFood & Drink Near Essex Junction Skating Facility
Inside & Adjacent
On-Site Concessions
The Essex Junction Skating Facility typically offers convenient concessions directly within the building, providing quick and easy access to snacks, hot and cold beverages, and light meals. This is the most practical option for individuals and teams needing to refuel between ice sessions without leaving the premises. Expect standard arena fare like pizza slices, hot dogs, pretzels, and drinks. It's a reliable choice for a fast bite, especially during busy tournament days when time is limited and convenience is key.
On siteChamplain Valley Exposition Food Stands
Depending on ongoing events at the Champlain Valley Exposition, there may be seasonal food vendors or stands open that offer a variety of quick eats. While not always operational, if there's a fair, market, or other event happening concurrently, these stands can provide diverse options ranging from classic fair food to local specialties. It’s worth checking the Exposition’s schedule to see if any food services will be available during your visit for an alternative to the rink's concessions.
Essex Junction · 0.6 miNearby Gathering Spots
Essex Shopping Center Restaurants
The Essex Shopping Center is a convenient cluster of dining options located a short drive from the skating facility. You’ll find a mix of casual eateries, including pizza places, sandwich shops, and fast-food chains, suitable for quick meals or family-friendly dining. This area is ideal for grabbing a bite between games or for a team dinner. The variety ensures there's something to satisfy most tastes and budgets, making it a practical stop for visitors needing convenient and accessible food options.
Essex Junction · 1.1 miThe Essex Resort & Spa Dining
For a more refined dining experience or a comfortable place to relax, the Essex Resort & Spa offers multiple on-site restaurants and lounges. Their culinary offerings range from casual pub fare to more upscale dining, providing a pleasant atmosphere for teams or families looking for a sit-down meal. It's a good option if you're seeking a quieter environment away from the hustle of game days, or for celebrating a team win with a nice meal. Reservations are recommended for their formal dining options.
Essex Junction · 1.5 miLocal & Elevated Picks
The Pour House at The Essex Resort
Located within The Essex Resort & Spa, The Pour House provides a relaxed gastropub atmosphere with a focus on craft beers and elevated pub food. It’s an excellent spot for groups to unwind with hearty meals and a good selection of local brews. The menu features creative burgers, shareable appetizers, and well-prepared entrees, making it a comfortable and satisfying choice for post-game gatherings or a relaxed dinner. The ambiance is casual yet polished, suitable for both teams and families.
Essex Junction · 1.5 miLeonardo's Italian Restaurant
A popular local spot, Leonardo's Italian Restaurant offers authentic Italian cuisine in a welcoming environment. Known for its classic pasta dishes, pizzas, and seafood specials, it's a family-friendly establishment that can often accommodate larger groups. If your team or family is craving comforting Italian food, Leonardo's is a solid choice. The generous portions and classic preparation make it a go-to for many in the area looking for a hearty meal after a day of activity.
Essex Junction · 1.7 miLocal Tips & Year-Round Info
- Weekend mornings, especially during hockey season, can see significant traffic flow around the skating facility and nearby schools.
- Public skate sessions often fill up quickly, so arriving early or checking availability online is advised for casual visitors.
- Local high school and college hockey games are common during fall and winter; check schedules for spectator opportunities.
- On non-event days, the facility is generally quiet, offering a calm atmosphere for practice or public skating.
- Be aware that parking can be tight during large tournaments; carpooling is highly recommended for teams and families.
Weather & Seasons at Essex Junction Skating Facility
- Winter: Winter in Essex Junction is cold, with average temperatures often below freezing. Visitors should pack warm layers, including hats, gloves, and waterproof outerwear. Road conditions can be variable due to snow, so allow extra travel time to reach the facility. Inside, the atmosphere is warm and lively, contrasting with the chilly outdoor climate.
- Spring & early summer: Spring brings a warming trend, though cold snaps are still possible in early April. Temperatures gradually rise, making outdoor activities more comfortable. Lightweight jackets and comfortable layers are advisable for travel to and from the rink. The facility remains a primary hub for ice sports during this period, with less frost and more daylight.
- Mid-summer: Summers in Vermont are generally warm and can be humid. While the ice facility is typically operational for maintenance or summer programs, the focus shifts outdoors for many. Dress in light, breathable clothing if attending any mid-summer events or practices. It’s a good time for enjoying the surrounding natural beauty after your time on the ice.
- Fall season: Fall is characterized by crisp air and vibrant foliage, with temperatures cooling considerably by October. Sweaters and light jackets are suitable for early fall, while warmer outerwear is needed as the season progresses. This is peak season for hockey, so expect busy schedules and enthusiastic crowds. The drive to the facility is often scenic with fall colors.
- Rain & snow: Both rain and snow are common from fall through spring. Waterproof footwear and outerwear are essential, especially during periods of active precipitation. Always check local weather and road reports before departing for the rink, as heavy snow or icy conditions can significantly impact travel safety and timing. Allow for flexibility in your travel plans during inclement weather.
Venue Facts & Trip Essentials
Venue facts
- Primary team: Local youth hockey leagues, figure skating clubs
- Neighborhood: Near Champlain Valley Exposition, residential areas
- Nearest airport: Burlington International Airport (BTV)
- Parking: Ample on-site lot
- Walkable district: Limited, some adjacent grounds
Trip essentials
- Groceries & supplies: Essex Shopping Center, Hannaford
- Pharmacy: CVS, Walgreens in Essex Junction
- Urgent care: University of Vermont Medical Center Urgent Care (South Burlington)
- Downtime: Local parks, cafes in Essex Junction
- Pro tip: Check facility schedule for public skate days/times to maximize your ice visit.

