Burlington is the most charming city in Vermont, and while it’s the largest in the state, it is not a large city. As of 2021, the city’s population was 44,781, which is smaller than many cities by far. Burlington’s modest size is one of the reasons why it is so exciting, and travelers staying there won’t feel like they’re in some big city. With its breathtaking natural scenery spread across almost every corner, one might think that the city is remote. And it’s not surprising because just a few minutes from its downtown are spectacular fields, and visitors can always easily get to the Green Mountains. There are many opportunities to explore in Burlington, making it a popular destination worth checking out. Here are the top 10 fun adventures to have in Burlington, Vermont.
10 Explore the Church Street Marketplace
Travelers will find two churches along the charming street, which is a must-visit when exploring Burlington. Since the road is closed for vehicles, vacationers have the whole space to stroll around and experience the best the street has to offer. Along the street, there are several colorful shops, making it an ideal spot for shopping for all sorts of stuff. Some of the street's most impressive shops to check out are the Smugglers Notch Distillery and Champlain Chocolates.
9 Go Picnicking At Oakledge Park
Located on Lake Champlain's shores, Oakledge is one of the best places for picnics in Burlington. Travelers will find many picnic tables and open grassy spaces to relax. There are other surrounding shelters to rent out if exploring this area as a family or a group of friends. Vacationers can even celebrate an occasion, perhaps a family reunion, in this place. There are two public beaches in the park, so those into swimming can bring their bathing suit and have fun at this gorgeous lakefront park.
8 Have Fun Laughing At the Vermont Comedy Club
Nestled right in the middle of the city, Vermont Comedy Club is the best place to have a good time laughing. Travelers are allowed to get on the stage and have comedians tell jokes about them as the audience laughs at them. One can try and catch one of the many comedy shows held at the club during weekends. Comedians are from the city, and some are famous on a national level. Vacationers can grab some of the opportunities offered at the club to test their comedy skills.
7 Go Cruising On Lake Champlain
Stretching in a north-south line dividing Vermont and its neighbor state, New York, with a part of it in Canada’s northern end, Lake Champlain is massive, but much of its waters are in Vermont. Get a chance to learn the history of this magnificent on a sightseeing cruise. The largest cruise ship on the lake measures 140 ft long and has a 363-capacity. The ship offers several sightseeing opportunities every day, including lunch, dinner, and dance cruises, once in a while.
6 Learn Some History At The Shelburne Museum
Shelburne is a perfect place, especially for visitors looking for the best spot to explore with kids. The museum boasts a combination of history and arts collected from different grounds and is definitely worth a visit. Vacationers will get the opportunity to get back to the 1920s when the 1906 steamship Ticonderoga cruised passengers around the famous Lake Champlain in style. Ticonderoga is the only existing walking beam side-wheel passenger steamer.
5 Explore The Burlington Farmers’ Market
While Church Street Marketplace is an awesome shopping point, Burlington Farmers’ Market is another place to behold. The market vendors offer everything from fresh farm produce to Vermont cheese to baked products. Vacationers will also spot several ethnic food options to explore in this adorable market. There is almost no chance that one will miss what they are looking to shop for. It is, however, important to get prepared to rub shoulders because the market is always busy. It is held every Saturday on sunny days and certain selected days in the winter.
4 Go Biking At the Burlington Bike Path
Extending for eight miles, Burlington Bike Path is a recreational trail winding along Lake Champlain's shores and links six waterfront parks. Initially created by bikers, this beautiful path is open for runners and strollers as well. There are many rentals available around where vacationers can rent bikes and enjoy riding as they take in the natural scenery. Winter tourists can try fat biking along this route once the season kicks in.
3 Take The Breathtaking Views Of Lake Champlain From Waterfront Park
Mounted west of downtown Burlington, the Waterfront Park is an amazing place for fun adventures, as it offers magnificent views of the charming Lake Champlain. The park boasts several pathways perfect for strolling and benches built along the lake’s shoreline. Funs of sunrises and sunsets will have an unforgettable experience of Lake Champlain from this park. One can also try and catch some of the many events and festivals held at this park throughout the year.
2 Engage In Water Activities At North Beach Park
Into water sports? Apart from being Burlington's largest beach, North Beach is the perfect place to have fun water adventures. One can go swimming, paddleboarding, canoeing, and kayaking. There are rentals available at the beach for travelers who don’t have their own water sports equipment. Other than water activities, there are several picnic tables, food concessions, an incredible playground, restrooms, and showers to ensure vacationers have a memorable beach experience.
1 Check Out Street Art
This enchanting city has artwork almost on every corner, and strolling around offers the incredible opportunity of seeing the incredible street art from the local talents. Burlington's street art is always breathtaking, and almost no one explores them without taking some epic pictures. In collaboration with business owners and city authorities, the local artists created street art to enhance supporting local talents and enhance creativity among the locals.