The greater Burlington area is full of scenic spots perfect for soaking up sunshine and fresh air. Whether you're looking for waterfront views, quiet grassy corners, or a place the whole family can enjoy, here are some of the best picnic spots to explore this May.

Oakledge Park is a Burlington favorite for a reason. Located on the southern edge of the city, it offers sprawling green lawns, shaded picnic tables, and stunning views of Lake Champlain. There's also a playground and easy access to the Burlington Bike Path, making it ideal for both relaxing and recreation.

Red Rocks Park in South Burlington provides a more tucked-away feel with trails that lead to cliffside overlooks and quiet picnic areas nestled among tall trees. The peaceful setting makes it a great spot for a midday break or an early evening picnic as the sun dips behind the lake.

For a picnic with a mix of open space and community energy, Waterfront Park in downtown Burlington is a go-to destination. Just steps from Church Street, you can grab takeout from a local restaurant and enjoy your meal while watching the boats drift by. It's a great place to people-watch, read, or simply enjoy the breeze off the water.

Airport Park in Colchester is a local gem for families and active groups. With sports fields, walking paths, and a small playground, there’s something for everyone. The wide open space makes it easy to spread out and enjoy a peaceful afternoon outdoors.

Finally, Ethan Allen Park offers a mix of nature and history. Located in the New North End, it features wooded trails, open picnic areas, and panoramic views from the Ethan Allen Tower. It’s a wonderful choice for anyone looking for a quiet spot that still feels close to town.

No matter where you choose to lay down your picnic blanket, spring is the perfect time to enjoy Vermont’s natural beauty and reconnect with the outdoors. Just don’t forget the bug spray and your favorite snacks!

Mother’s Day is right around the corner, and it’s the perfect time to show your appreciation for the women who raise us, support us, and make life a little sweeter. Whether you're celebrating your mom, a new mom, a grandmother, or a mother figure, we've curated a gift guide with ideas that go beyond the ordinary.

1. For the Mom Who Loves Local

Support small businesses and treat her to something made close to home! Handmade candles, local honey, artisanal chocolates, or a curated gift box from a local shop are great gifts that support small business. If you’re in the Burlington area this week and need something last minute, grab some items from the Burlington Farmers Market or explore local boutiques in Stowe or Shelburne.

2. For the Homebody Mom

Create her perfect cozy day in. A plush robe, luxurious slippers, and her favorite book or magazine make a thoughtful set. Bonus points if you add a high-quality tea or coffee blend and a breakfast-in-bed coupon from the family.

3. For the Green Thumb

If she loves her garden, gift her a beautiful new planter, a set of heirloom seeds, or a gardening journal. A visit to a local greenhouse or nursery, like Red Wagon Plants or Claussen’s, can double as both gift and quality time.

4. For the Sentimental Mom

Personalized gifts like custom family portraits, monogrammed keepsakes, or a heartfelt letter never go out of style. Even a simple framed photo of you and her can go a long way.

5. For the Adventure-Lover

Whether she loves hikes, road trips, or trying new things, an experience might be the best gift. A weekend getaway, cooking class, or spa day might be just what she needs. You can also keep it simple with a state park pass or a new water bottle for her walks!

6. For the Always-On-the-Go Mom

Help her slow down with a self-care bundle: a journal, essential oils, and maybe a massage gift certificate. Sometimes practical luxury can be the best gift. Something thoughtful that she wouldn't buy herself.

No matter what you choose, the best gift is one that shows you know her and appreciate all she does. Happy Mother’s Day to all the amazing moms and mother figures out there!

 

April marks the beginning of the busy season for real estate in Vermont. As the snow melts and Vermont’s landscapes start to green up, the local housing market begins to thaw, too. And so starts the unofficial kickoff to the busiest real estate season of the year, and if you're thinking about buying or selling a home in Chittenden County or beyond, this is the time to start paying attention.

One of the biggest trends we’re seeing this month is an increase in housing inventory. More homeowners are listing their properties, which opens up fresh opportunities for buyers and sparks more movement in the market overall. After the tighter inventory we experienced through the winter, this seasonal uptick is a welcome shift.

For buyers, the growing inventory means more choices. If you've been struggling to find the right fit over the past few months, April could bring that perfect home you've been waiting for. With more listings popping up each week, buyers can take their time (within reason!) to compare properties, weigh priorities, and potentially avoid the intense bidding wars that defined some of the market's previous hot streaks.

That said, competition is still very real—especially for homes that are well-priced and move-in ready. Being pre-approved for a mortgage, working with a responsive real estate agent, and knowing your non-negotiables will help you act quickly and confidently when the right property comes along.

For sellers, the rise in inventory might sound like a challenge, but it’s actually a great moment to list your home—if you position it well. More listings mean more buyers are actively house-hunting. And while you’ll have to put in a bit more effort to make your home stand out, serious buyers are out there, eager to move. Curb appeal, proper pricing, and professional marketing (think: clean photos, compelling descriptions, and strong online visibility) can give your property the edge it needs to shine.

Another benefit to listing now? You get ahead of the late-spring rush. Many homeowners wait until May or June to put their homes on the market, but savvy sellers know that April offers the chance to catch early attention from buyers who are ready to move quickly before the school year ends or summer plans kick off.

Whether you're stepping into the market as a first-time buyer or preparing to list a home you've loved for years, this spring is full of possibility. At Geri Reilly Real Estate, we’re keeping a close eye on trends, inventory shifts, and buyer behavior to make sure our clients are always one step ahead.

Need help navigating the spring market? Reach out anytime for guidance, insights, and a plan that works for you!