If you're in the mood for a 45-minute drive from Smuggs, the ECHO Leahy aquarium in Burlington makes a very nice half-day excursion. It's part-science museum, part-ecotourism resource center, part-research lab, and of course, part-aquarium. Don't come expecting dolphin and sea lion shows, but once there, you will find a nice variety of permanent and visiting exhibits that focus on the Ecology, Culture, History, and Opportunities (ECHO) of the Lake Champlain area. There is a small touch tank with starfish and a few mollusks. There are large- and small-scale fish tanks (you can watch them being fed), a mini-movie to watch, a family activities room, a model of a the Champlain basin where little ones can float boats and "go fishing", a toddler Discovery Room, a cafeteria, and a nice gift shop. While we were there, a visiting exhibit featured the human body and Amazing Feats of Aging. There is plenty for school-age children to do and see, as well, but we were traveling with a toddler and focused our activities around her. Admission is $9 for adults, $6 for kids 3-17, and free for kids under 3. The center is located right on the waterfront in downtown Burlington, and it has its own parking lot.
The check-in desk at Smuggler's Notch has brochures, maps, and if you ask them to look for them, discount coupons for ECHO behind the counter ($1 off per admission).
Check out ECHO Leahy Center Vermont .