Many visitors consider Burlington, Vermont, the best of both worlds in the winter—close to a number of outdoor recreation opportunities and stunning natural landscapes, the beautiful, bucolic city has no shortage of picturesque charm. However, there are also plenty of fun activities that don’t involve the great outdoors; cozier, more festive pursuits that include everything from downtown exploring to sampling some of the region’s best brews. And in addition to its quaint, small-town vibes, Burlington is a great place to get festive with winter-themed events that start over the holidays and last all season long—making it the perfect all-around retreat with something for every VT vacationer.
10 Winter Recreation
Outdoor fun in Vermont doesn’t stop when the temps drop, and the snow begins to fall—in fact, in winter, the area comes alive with a number of outdoor recreation activities that are the perfect way to experience the area’s stunning scenery. Whether it’s outdoor adventures that get the adrenaline pumping or more laidback, scenic pursuits, Burlington and the surrounding area has something for everyone looking to get outside this winter.
- Skiing & Snowboarding @ Bolton Valley Ski Resort
- Cross Country Skiing @Camel’s Hump Nordic
- Snowshoeing @ Centennial Woods
- Ice Skating @ Calahan Park Community Rink or Arthur Park
- Fat Biking @ Burlington Rec Path
9 Sleigh Rides
For those who want to experience all the charm of a snowy Burlington winter without suiting up or strapping on skis or skates, a lovely sleigh ride is the way to go. Relaxing, tranquil, and breathtaking, there’s no doubt that meandering through a wintry wonderland in a horse-drawn carriage is one of the best Vermont winter activities.
- Rainbows Edge Farm
- Shelburne Farms
- Third Branch Horse Logging
8 Church Street Marketplace
One of the most charming things to do in winter is visit Burlington’s Church Street Marketplace—and strolling in the winter is just as fun, despite the chillier temps. Full of shopping, dining, and arts & entertainment options, it’s also a great place to simply soak up Burlington’s bucolic small-town vibes. Celebrate the holidays in the marketplace with a number of festive events, including carolers, hundreds of holiday lights, and a Christmas parade. Find out more about marketplace holiday events here
7 Burlington Breweries
As a whole, the state of Vermont may have the most breweries per capita—however, the charming city of Burlington also has its fair chair. Perfect for stopping in and sipping on a cold winter’s day, visitors will love sampling the area’s best craft beers—chill, laidback vibes definitely included.
- Foam Brewers
- The Vermont Pub & Brewery
- Switchback Brewing Co.
- Burlington Beer Co.
6 Catch A Show
Visitors can spend all day soaking up Burlington’s cool winter vibes and enjoying its snowy splendor—but after dark, one of the best cold weather activities is to catch a show. Whether it’s a front-row seat at Burlington’s classic theater, The Flynn, or a night of laughs at the Vermont Comedy Club, there’s always something going on downtown.
5 Explore Lake Champlain
Lake Champlain is undoubtedly one of Burlington’s most stunning natural attractions—and, in winter, it’s made even more charming by its snow-capped mountain backdrop and unending forested vistas. With some of the city’s most breathtaking scenery on display, Lake Champlain is a must for any Burlington itinerary.
- Walk the Burlington Greenway
- Snowshoeing, Cross-Country Skiing, and Ice Fishing
- Visit Ausable Chasm
4 Winter Festivals
Soak up all of Burlington’s charming, cozy vibes with a visit to one of the area’s winter festivals. From holiday celebrations and downtown events to regional, seasonal fun, there’s always something festive on the calendar throughout the winter season.
- Vermont Penguin Plunge
- Holiday Parade and Tree Lighting
- BTV Winter Market
- Great Ice! 2023 (North Hero, VT)
3 Rent A Cozy Cabin Or Cottage
After spending a day exploring Burlington’s charming wintry landscapes, visitors will undoubtedly want to snuggle up by a warm fireside—and there’s no better place to do it than a cozy cabin. Wintry landscapes, forested vistas, and mountain views all await VT vacationers looking to escape during the snowy season.
- Basin Harbor
- Robert Frost Mountain Cabins
- Lake Champlain Bunkhouse (Airbnb)
2 Have A Spa Day
Vermont's vacationers can rest their minds, bodies, and spirits with a rejuvenating spa day at one of the region’s relaxing spas—many of which are conveniently located in downtown Burlington. The perfect way to unwind after a day of exploring, these wow-worthy wellness spots are a must-add to any R&R itinerary.
- Jivana Green Spa & Salon
- Brilliant Massage & Skin
- The Essex Resort & Spa
1 Maple Syrup Season
For those in the know, sugaring season is one of the best times to visit Vermont and sample the delicious maple syrup (and other goodies!) offered by many area farms. Usually lasting from mid-February through early spring, sugaring season is a great way to visit many of the region’s quaint local farms, too.
- Sugartree Maple Farm
- Dakin Farm
- Goodrich’s Maple Farm (Cabot, VT)