Burlington, Vermont: Best Things to Do – Top Picks

Are you looking for a charming New England getaway? Burlington, Vermont, is the perfect spot. It’s the state’s most populous city, nestled by Lake Champlain. With a population of just under 45,000, it’s a mix of outdoor fun, tasty food, and art.

• Burlington, Vermont is a vibrant city with a population of just under 45,000 residents.
• The city offers a mix of natural beauty, farm-to-table dining, and a progressive atmosphere.
• Visitors can explore the lively Church Street Marketplace, enjoy waterfront views, and discover a range of outdoor activities.
• Burlington serves as an excellent base for exploring the Lake Champlain region and nearby Addison County attractions.
• The city shines during the fall foliage season, making it a popular New England weekend getaway.

Welcome to the heart of Burlington, Vermont – the iconic Church Street Marketplace. This area, closed to traffic since 1981, is a vibrant four-block zone in downtown. It’s a place full of energy and variety, perfect for Burlington Vermont activities and Burlington Vermont sightseeing.

Walk along the cobblestone streets and find a world of local shops and boutiques. Visit Common Deer, a modern store with USA-made goods. Or check out Frog Hollow, a craft gallery with Vermont artists’ work. Each shop brings a piece of Burlington’s culture and creativity.

The Church Street Marketplace is a food lover’s dream. It has everything from Vermont classics to international dishes. Try Pho Hong for delicious Vietnamese pho or Bluebird Barbecue for award-winning barbecue. The area also has street performers, live music, and seasonal events, making it lively.

As you walk, you’ll see talented street performers. Musicians, dancers, acrobats, and magicians add to the fun. The marketplace also hosts big events like the Festival of Fools in August and the Burlington Discover Jazz Festival, with free street performances and live music.

The Church Street Marketplace is a treasure for shopping, dining, and entertainment. It captures the spirit of Burlington Vermont activities and Burlington Vermont sightseeing. It’s a place where history, culture, and community come together in the heart of Burlington.

Burlington, Vermont, is a great place to explore the stunning waterfront of Lake Champlain. This lake is known as the nation’s “Sixth” great lake. It’s over 120 miles long and 13 miles wide, offering fun activities all year round.

Boat trips on Lake Champlain are a must-try. Some locals even go bar-hopping to the New York side. The Burlington Greenway, started in 1985, is an eight-mile path for biking and walking. It takes you along the lake, offering amazing views.

The Burlington Waterfront Park is perfect for a calm day. It has a boardwalk for strolling and enjoying the lake. You can swim, boat, fish, or just admire the beauty of Lake Champlain.

Lake Champlain is a top spot for anyone visiting Burlington, Vermont. It offers fun activities all year and stunning views. It’s a place that will surely make a lasting impression.

When you visit Burlington, Vermont, you’ll find endless outdoor adventures. The Burlington Greenway is an eight-mile path for biking and walking by Lake Champlain. Nearby, the Raven Ridge Natural Area has a 2.4-mile hike with amazing lake views.

Winter lovers will find plenty of skiing and snow sports. The Colchester Causeway is a special path for walking and running into Lake Champlain. It offers beautiful views of the water. Just a short drive away, Mt. Philo State Park is great for hiking and seeing the lake and mountains.

The Burlington Greenway is a favorite eight-mile path by Lake Champlain. It’s perfect for cycling, walking, and jogging. You’ll see the lake and Adirondack Mountains in the distance.

There are many hiking trails and parks in Burlington. The Raven Ridge Natural Area has a 2.4-mile loop with great views. Mt. Philo State Park offers views of the lake and mountains.

When it snows, Burlington turns into a winter wonderland. It’s full of snow-based activities. You can ski, snowboard, cross-country ski, and snowshoe.

“The natural beauty of Burlington and the surrounding area is truly breathtaking. From the lakefront trails to the mountain vistas, there’s an abundance of outdoor recreation to enjoy year-round.”

Burlington, Vermont, is a food lover’s paradise. It boasts a lively farm-to-table scene that highlights the state’s rich agricultural offerings. The Burlington Farmers Market is a top spot, featuring over 70 local vendors. You can try artisanal cheeses, fresh-baked goods, and more.

The city’s food scene goes beyond the market. Restaurants like Paradiso and The Grey Jay are leading the way. Paradiso offers Nordic-inspired small plates, while The Grey Jay serves Mediterranean brunch. Shy Guy Gelato makes gelato with seasonal, local ingredients for dessert lovers.

Beyond regular dining, Burlington offers unique food adventures. The Maple Creemee Trail celebrates Vermont’s maple syrup. The Vermont Craft Beer scene is famous for its quality. You can also learn about farming at places like Philo Ridge Farm or enjoy special dinners by Adventure Dinner.

If you love food, craft drinks, or just want to experience Vermont’s food culture, Burlington is a key spot for Vermont vacation spots.

Burlington, Vermont, is a gem on Lake Champlain’s shores. It’s a top spot for Vermont vacation spots. The city has many breweries and cideries, each with its own flavors and experiences.

Burlington has many famous breweries. Zero Gravity Craft Brewery is loved for its Conehead IPA. Foam Brewers near Waterfront Park offers fruity ales and stouts.

Burlington Beer Company in Williston has a wide range of beers. Other spots like Switchback Brewing Company and Four Quarters Brewing are also must-visits. They offer unique brews like imperial stouts.

Citizen Cider in Burlington is great for cider lovers. They offer tours and tastings of their unique ciders. It’s a chance to learn about cider-making.

The South End arts district is a craft beer hotspot. It has breweries and taprooms with tours, tastings, and live music. Dedalus Wine Bar is also there, offering small-producer wines from around the world.

Burlington’s craft beverage scene is unforgettable. It’s perfect for Burlington Vermont attractions and outdoor fans.

Burlington, Vermont, is a city alive with culture. It boasts a wide range of arts, culture, and museums. From the famous Shelburne Museum to ECHO at Leahy Center, there’s much to see and learn.

The Shelburne Museum is a top spot to visit. It has the largest collection of American folk art in the world. You can see impressionist masterpieces and even ride an antique carousel.

At the ECHO at Leahy Center, science and nature fans will find interactive exhibits. These shows teach about Lake Champlain’s ecosystems and wildlife. The Lake Champlain Maritime Museum also offers a look into the area’s maritime past.

Art enthusiasts will love Burlington. The Firehouse Gallery on Church Street has changing exhibits. The Art Hound gallery in Essex is the largest in the state, showcasing Vermont artists.

Burlington also hosts exciting events like the Discover Jazz Music Festival. This festival brings live jazz music to the city’s venues.

Burlington’s arts, culture, and museums are a treasure trove. Whether you’re into history, modern art, or music, there’s something for everyone. It’s a city that loves to celebrate its creativity.

Burlington, Vermont, is a lively city with lots of fun for families. You can find educational adventures, outdoor fun, or just time together. This beautiful place has something for everyone.

The ECHO at Leahy Center is great for science and nature lovers. It has cool exhibits and hands-on learning for kids. At the Vermont Teddy Bear Factory, families can make their own teddy bears on a tour.

The Petra Cliffs Climbing Center is perfect for kids who love climbing. It has walls for all skill levels. The Get Air Trampoline Park in Williston has trampolines, foam pits, and dodgeball for endless fun.

Vermont’s seasons offer many fun activities for families. In fall, apple picking at places like Yates Family Orchard is a hit. In winter, the Burlington Farmers Market turns into a fun indoor spot with local goods and shows.

Explore Burlington’s secret spots for a unique time. Try the Savu lakeside sauna boxes for a cold plunge in Lake Champlain. The city’s parks, like Waterfront Park and the Burlington Greenway, are great for picnics, games, and biking.

Burlington is a top pick for family fun, making it a great Vermont vacation spot and Burlington Vermont activity.

Burlington, Vermont, is right by Lake Champlain. It has a lively waterfront area with lots to do. You can enjoy great food, live music, and beautiful views. It’s a must-see for anyone visiting.

Splash at The Boathouse is a top spot for food and views. The Skinny Pancake is famous for tasty crepes, both sweet and savory. It’s a great place to eat by the lake.

When the sun goes down, the area comes alive. Foam Brewers has music and great beer, perfect for a sunset. Juniper Bar & Restaurant in Hotel Vermont offers craft cocktails and music for a fancy evening.

The waterfront is special all year. In summer, you can eat outside and enjoy the views. Burlington’s waterfront is a place where you can have a great meal, fun entertainment, or just relax by the lake.

Explore the lively shopping scene in Burlington, Vermont. You’ll find local boutiques, craft galleries, and artisanal food shops. The Church Street Marketplace is the heart of the city’s shopping. It’s a pedestrian-friendly area with stores like Silkworm for vintage clothes and Vermont HoneyLights for unique candles.

Art lovers will enjoy Frog Hollow craft gallery. It features works by local Vermont artists. You can find hand-crafted pottery, paintings, and sculptures. Farmhouse Chocolates is nearby, offering organic dark chocolate treats.

For a true taste of Burlington, visit the Burlington Farmers Market. It’s filled with handmade pottery, artisanal cheeses, and fresh produce. This outdoor market is great for supporting local businesses and finding unique souvenirs.

Don’t miss the South End arts district. It’s full of independent galleries, studios, and shops. This area showcases Burlington’s artistic community. Spend an afternoon here to find special treasures to remember your Burlington Vermont activities and Burlington Vermont sightseeing.

“The vibrant shopping scene in Burlington is a true reflection of the city’s commitment to supporting local artists and small businesses. It’s the perfect place to find one-of-a-kind treasures and connect with the creative community.”

Burlington, Vermont, is in the heart of New England. It has many places to stay, from cozy bed and breakfasts to modern hotels. You can find the perfect spot for your trip here.

The Lang House on Main Street is a charming Victorian bed and breakfast. It’s in the historic Old North End, close to arts and dining. It feels like home.

The Hotel Vermont is near Lake Champlain and offers local products and live music. The Blind Tiger Burlington is a historic mansion in the South End. It’s a unique place to stay.

Short-term rentals are also available in the South End and Old North End. They let you live like a local.

Exploring Burlington is easy on foot or by bike. Local Motion has bike rentals. You can ride the Burlington Greenway and see Lake Champlain. Car rentals and ride-sharing are available too.

Burlington, Vermont, is great for weekend trips or longer stays. Its accommodations and transport options make it easy to visit. It’s perfect for New England weekend getaways.

Burlington, Vermont, is a place that mixes old-world charm with modern vibes. It’s perfect for those who love nature, culture, or food. You can find everything from historic spots to scenic views here.

The city’s food scene is a big part of its charm. You can find local markets and top-notch restaurants. Burlington is also great for families, with lots to do and see.

When you visit, dive into the city’s culture and try its amazing food. Don’t miss out on the natural beauty around you. Burlington is a top spot in Vermont, no matter how long you stay.