ECHO, Leahy Center for Lake Champlain

ECHO, Leahy Center for Lake Champlain is a waterfront science and nature museum with a strong regional focus. Rather than functioning as a broad aquarium, it uses live animals and interactive exhibits to explore Lake Champlain and the surrounding basin. Its central Into the Lake gallery includes Vermont’s largest freshwater aquarium, a 15,000-gallon Lake Tank featuring species such as lake sturgeon, muskellunge, bowfin, and other native fish. Across the museum, more than 50 live species connect visitors with the local ecosystem.

The experience extends well beyond aquarium viewing. Hands-on exhibits explore topics including watersheds, weather, energy, engineering, and the forces that shaped the Lake Champlain Basin. Wildlife Kayak Adventure recreates a journey through the Missisquoi National Wildlife Refuge, while animal demonstrations introduce native reptiles, amphibians, and fish. The museum also examines lake health, invasive species, and the ecological challenges facing regional waters. Its combination of freshwater wildlife, science exhibits, and a strong Lake Champlain focus makes ECHO particularly suited to travelers interested in understanding a specific landscape rather than visiting a general-interest aquarium.