The Essex, Vermont's Culinary Resort & Spa, is a 120-room hotel and conference center in Essex Junction, approximately nine miles northeast of downtown Burlington in Chittenden County, Vermont. The property established its culinary identity through a long partnership with the New England Culinary Institute (NECI), whose student-led kitchens and chef-instructor programming shaped both the dining experience and the resort's positioning as a destination for food enthusiasts. Today, the resort's dining program continues to reflect this heritage through Vermont-sourced menus, on-site cooking events, and culinary programming that sets it apart from standard Vermont resort offerings. Accommodations span standard rooms with garden and courtyard views, deluxe rooms, and full suites with living areas. A full-service spa occupies a dedicated wing, offering massage, facials, and body treatments; an outdoor pool functions from late spring through early fall. The 18-hole Courses at Essex golf complex is one of the region's more accessible public-access layouts, drawing golfers from Burlington and beyond. A fitness center operates 24 hours. The resort's conference and banquet facilities accommodate corporate meetings, retreats, and small-to-mid-size weddings, making it one of Chittenden County's more versatile event venues. Burlington International Airport is approximately 15 minutes south by car, and the Essex Shoppes & Cinema—Vermont's largest outlet shopping destination—is adjacent to the resort.
Room types
- Standard Rooms ($180–290/night USD)
- Deluxe Rooms ($220–350/night USD)
- Suites ($320–550/night USD)
Amenities
- New England Culinary Institute partner programs
- Full-service spa
- Outdoor pool
- Golf course
- Fine dining
- Cooking classes on-site
- Fitness center
Location
70 Essex Way, Essex Junction, VT 05452
44.4928, -73.1003 View on map
Highlights
- Culinary identity shaped by New England Culinary Institute (NECI) partnership
- 18-hole Courses at Essex golf complex open to resort guests and public
- Full-service spa, outdoor pool, and 24-hour fitness center
- 15 minutes from Burlington International Airport
- On-site conference and banquet facilities for corporate and wedding events
Tips for visiting
- Culinary events and cooking classes sell out quickly; reserve these experiences before the stay
- The golf courses accept non-guests; tee time reservations are recommended in summer
- Burlington's Church Street district is about 20 minutes by car from Essex Junction
- Packages bundling accommodations with spa credits, golf, or culinary programs often provide strong value
- Essex Junction is served by Amtrak's Vermonter line, making the resort accessible without a car for rail travelers
Accessibility
The Essex provides ADA-accessible rooms with roll-in showers, raised toilet seats, and widened doorways throughout the main hotel building. Elevators serve all guest floors; the golf clubhouse and spa reception are on the ground floor and accessible from the main parking area.
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Frequently asked questions
What is the connection between The Essex and the New England Culinary Institute?
The Essex developed its culinary identity through a long partnership with NECI; chef-led events and cooking programs continue at the property, though the formal school's operational presence has evolved over the years.
How far is The Essex from downtown Burlington?
The resort is approximately 9 miles from Burlington's Church Street Marketplace, a 15–20 minute drive. Burlington International Airport is about 15 minutes south.
Can non-guests use the golf course and spa?
The Courses at Essex accept outside players with tee time reservations. The spa also accepts day guests subject to availability; advance booking is recommended.
Does The Essex have conference facilities?
Yes. The Essex is a popular conference and event destination in Chittenden County, with banquet rooms and meeting spaces accommodating groups of various sizes.