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- More Attractions Await Visitors In Burlington
Burlington, nestled on the eastern shores of Lake Champlain, is Vermont's largest city, yet it retains a small-town charm. In fact, this is still a Vermont town with a low population of around 45,000. Just about 40 miles from the Canadian border, Burlington boasts a rich history dating back to the late 18th century.
Once a bustling port, today it's a hub for arts and culture, as evidenced by the vibrant Church Street Marketplace and the renowned Flynn Center for the Performing Arts. History buffs can delve into Burlington's past at the Ethan Allen Homestead Museum, while nature enthusiasts will revel in the beauty of Waterfront Park and the nearby Green Mountains.
Despite its modest size, Burlington offers a diverse culinary scene, with farm-to-table eateries and craft breweries dotting the cityscape. For those seeking to explore this captivating destination, this ultimate guide provides valuable insights into the top things to do in Burlington, ensuring an unforgettable experience in this scenic lakeside city.
UPDATE: 2023/07/26 09:38 EST BY NICHOLAS MAYAMBA
More Attractions Await Visitors In Burlington
Burlington has a little bit of everything to keep all travelers happy. This refreshed list features more attractions guaranteed to impress vacationing families, outdoor lovers, and those looking for an authentic city vibe.
Things To Do In Burlington, Vermont
Burlington offers a number of fun adventures, from taking a cruise on the lake to exploring the historical sights. Here's a look at the top things to do in this destination.
1 Explore Shelburne Museum
Shelburne Museum is located in the township of Shelburne, just seven miles from Burlington. This museum offers a unique cultural experience, spread across 45 acres and boasting 39 exhibition buildings.
Visitors can check out the diverse collections, including American folk art, textiles, and historical artifacts like horse-drawn carriages and a restored steamboat.
The museum grounds feature beautiful gardens, providing a picturesque backdrop for leisurely strolls. Engaging events and educational programs are held throughout the year, catering to diverse interests.
- Address: 6000 Shelburne Rd, Shelburne, VT 05482
- Hours: May - October: 10 am - 5 pm (daily); November - April: Wed - Sun: 10 am - 5 pm
- Price: Adults $25, Children (5-17) $14, under 5 free
The Shelburne Museum is surrounded by the 1,4000-acre Shelburne Farms, a great place for nature lovers to wander about and enjoy the green atmosphere after exploring enough of the museum's exhibits.
2 Visit The Ethan Allen Homestead Museum
Ethan Allen Homestead Museum offers a glimpse into the life of the museum’s eponymous Revolutionary War hero. The house was built in the late 1700s and belonged to Ethan Allen. It is the last of his homes in Vermont.
Visitors can explore the historic building, check out the displays, learn about Allen's life, and even tour the picturesque surroundings.
The museum offers guided tours, interactive exhibits, and a gift shop with unique souvenirs. A scenic trail network also meanders through the homestead’s property, offering ample opportunities for leisurely strolls and wildlife sightings.
- Address: 1 Ethan Allen Homestead, Burlington, VT 05408
- Hours: May - October: 10 am - 4 pm (daily)
- Price: Adults: $10, Seniors/Students: $8, Children (4-17): $5, Children under 4: Free
The Ethan Allen Homestead is an excellent attraction for the whole family; it has a kid-friendly section with antique toys where the little ones can play archeologist.
3 Drop By ECHO, Leahy Center For Lake Champlain
The ECHO Leahy Center for Lake Champlain is a science center found on the shores of Lake Champlain. The center’s mission is to enlighten visitors on the lake’s history as well as its ecology and cultural significance.
The museum boasts nearly 100 animal species, including turtles, otters, birds, and fish. There are also hands-on exhibits, like a life-size replica of the General Butler, a shipwreck from the lake.
There’s also a 3D movie theater where films about Lake Champlain and its wildlife are screened. It’s no wonder why the ECHO Center has won awards from notable organizations like the National Science Foundation.
- Address: 1 College St, Burlington, VT 05401, United States
- Hours: 10 am - 5 pm (daily)
- Price: Adults: $18; Students & Seniors: $16; Children (ages 3-17): $14.50; Children 2 and under Free
4 Hang Out At Waterfront Park
The 14-acre Waterfront Park on the shores of Lake Champlain is a popular spot among locals and tourists. This park offers a spectacular view of the lake and the Adirondack Mountains in the background.
The park’s centerpiece is a 900-foot boardwalk stretching out over the water, but other facilities like picnic tables and BBQ grills exist. There’s also a playground for kids and walking/biking paths for those who want to stay active.
This is also the venue of many of Burlington’s events, like the Burlington Discover Jazz Festival and the Lake Champlain Dragon Boat Festival.
5 Spend An Afternoon At Oakledge Park
Oakledge is another one of Burlington’s parks, boasting 45 acres of space right next to Lake Champlain. Just like its counterpart, Waterfront Park, Oakledge Park also offers a wonderful view of the lake against the backdrop of the Adirondacks.
There are walking and hiking trails charted through this park. Birdwatchers are drawn to Oakledge because of the opportunities to view birds like ospreys, herons, and even the occasional bald eagle.
Other facilities like sports fields, picnic areas, and BBQ grills are available.
6 Catch A Performance At The Flynn Center For The Performing Arts
This theater is housed in a 1930s building in Downtown Burlington, and it boasts a space that can seat over 1400 people. The Flynn has been Burlington’s flagship performing arts center, having hosted music, dance, theater, and comedy performances since it was established.
In fact, this is home to the Vermont Symphony Orchestra and the Vermont Youth Orchestra, who regularly stage their performances at this venue.
Travelers planning to watch a performance at The Flynn should visit the venue's website to check out the acts on schedule and their ticket prices.
7 Tour The University Of Vermont Campus
The University of Vermont is one of the oldest universities in the country as it was founded in 1791. This is evident from the historic buildings that dot the campus; the oldest one is the Old Mill building, which today houses the English Department.
Tours of the campus are conducted for prospective students, but visitors can still explore the grounds and check out the mix of historic and modern architecture.
The university is also home to the Fleming Museum of Art and the Robert Hull Fleming Museum of Natural History, which are open to the public.
8 Take A Bike Ride On The Burlington Greenway Bike Path
The Burlington Greenway is an 8-mile path that runs along Lake Champlain’s shoreline. This paved path is ideal for cyclists, joggers, and walkers, offering a wonderful view of the lake. Starting at Oakledge Park, the path runs all the way to the Winooski River to the north of the city.
Visitors get to see a variety of birds while on the path, and in spring, wildflowers emerge to elegantly line the trail.
Riders can get their hands on a pair of wheels by downloading the Greenride Bikeshare app. There are over 15 hub stations spread around the city for convenient access.
9 Take A Cruise On Lake Champlain
Lake Champlain is Burlington’s crowning jewel and visitors can get an immersive experience of this feature by taking a cruise on the lake.
Several companies offer daily cruise tours, the most popular of which is Spirit of Ethan Allen, which boasts the largest cruise ship on the lake.
- Typically, cruise tours are available from May to October because of weather restrictions in winter and early spring.
10 Enjoy An Ice Cold Treat At Ben & Jerry's
Although it's located 30 minutes outside of Burlington, this famous ice cream factory offers the perfect escape for vacationing families in the city. Ben & Jerry's welcomes visitors for a 30-minute tour of the factory, chronicling its history with a glimpse into the manufacturing process.
Those with a sweet tooth will cherish the opportunity to freely sample the venue's finger-licking good flavors at the Scoop Shop, including milkshakes, baked waffle cones, and sundaes.
At the end of the tour, more tastings await guests at the Flavor Graveyard, where discontinued flavors like Ethan Almond and Vermonty Python are available.
- Address: 36 Church St, Burlington, VT 05401, United States
- Hours: Open daily, 9/10 am - 6/7/9 pm
- Price: Adults $4, Seniors $3, Kids 12 and younger free
Ben & Jerry's ice cream factory is a popular destination for the whole family and the best time to tour the venue is in the morning to skip the afternoon crowds.
11 Explore The Vibrant Church Street Marketplace
Church Street Marketplace is the ideal place for those looking to experience the authentic vibe of Burlington. Vermont's most popular public square has a little bit of something for all types of visitors to the city.
The area comprises four blocks, spanning Main and Pearl Streets, dotted with beautiful historic buildings, quaint eateries, trendy boutiques, and quirky street performers.
The neighborhood comes to its own after dark with a buzzing nightlife as several local breweries, pubs, and bars entertain revelers to the wee hours of the morning.
Tourists generally enjoy visiting Church Street Marketplace there is something for everyone to enjoy!
12 Walk, Hike, Or Bike Through Mount Philo State Park
One of the most scenic state parks to visit in Vermont, Mount Philo is a 240-acre outdoor oasis offering the ultimate playground for adventurers.
Boasting dramatic views of the Green Mountains, Lake Champlain, and the Adirondack, the park has plenty of opportunities for hikers, walkers, and bikers looking to delve into the Burlington backcountry.
There are multiple nature trails to be explored, ranging from easy to moderate. But for those who enjoy a more laid-back activity, swimming, picnicking, or birdwatching will make the perfect alternative.
Mount Philo State Park also offers various amenities for public convenience, including bathrooms, public grills, parking, and picnic pavilions.
- Address: 5425 Mt Philo Rd, Charlotte, VT 05445, United States
- Hours: Open daily, 8 am - sunset
- Price: Adults $3, Kids $2
Mount Philo State Park is one of the few attractions in the city that allows dogs, so pet lovers can make of the most of this opportunity to spend quality time with their canine companions.
13 Meet The Locals At The Burlington Farmers Market
Burlington, Vermont: Shoppers walking by plant and food stands at the Burlington farmers market
The Burlington Farmers Market offers visitors to the city an exciting local experience with a chance to rub shoulders with the town folk. Established in 1980, the lively market hosts local vendors and farmers selling all types of locally-sourced agricultural produce, handmade crafts, flowers, and other wares.
Tourists will have a memorable time interacting with the locals as they inspect the different merchandise on display and be left in awe by the intricate candlemaking and glassblowing skills.
The market is also home to several eateries and cafes serving the best of the city's dishes.
14 Where To Eat In Burlington
Vermont may be known for its cheeses and maple syrup, but it’s also home to foods like fried dough, cider donuts, venison, and strawberry rhubarb pie.
Below is a list of some of the top places to eat in Burlington, where one can enjoy these treats and more.
Breakfast
- Address: 60 Lake St, Burlington, VT 05401, United States
- Hours: Mon & Wed - Sun: 8 am - 8 pm; Tue: 8 am - 3 pm
- Popular Meals: Blueberry Frumple Cake, Breakfast Burrito, Choco Nutty Crepes, Hot Apple Crumble Crepes, Sweet Potato Fries
- Address: 155 Bank St, Burlington, VT 05401, United States
- Hours: Fri - Tue: 6 am - 2 pm (closed on Wed & Thu)
- Popular Meals: Santorini Sandwich, Sausage Gravy Biscuits, Eggs Benedict, Buttermilk Pancakes, Cheese Omelet
Lunch/Dinner
- Address: 115 Church St, Burlington, VT 05401, United States
- Hours: Tue - Sat: 11 am - 9 pm (closed on Sun & Mon)
- Popular Meals: Pastrami Melt, Beyond Burger, Chipotle Turkey Club, Roast Beef Melt, Crab Fritter Po’boy
- Address: 175 Church St, Burlington, VT 05401, United States
- Hours: Tue - Sun: 11 am - 8 pm (closed on Mon)
- Popular Meals: Yaprak Sarma Stuffed Grape Leaves, Chicken Shish Kebab, Shrimp Guvec
Dinner/Drinks
- Address: 160 Bank St, Burlington, VT 05401, United States
- Hours: Sun - Thu: 11 am - 10 pm; Fri & Sat: 11 am - 11 pm
- Popular Meals: Smoked Bluefish Pate, Chilled Mussels Conserva, Stonewood Farm Turkey Burger, Vermont Pork Schnitzel
- Drinks: House Cocktails: Farmhouse Mule, Margarita, Blood Orange Collins, That’s Amaro!
Mad River Distillers Burlington
- Address: 137 St Paul St, Burlington, VT 05401, United States
- Hours: Sun, Mon & Wed: 12 pm - 6 pm; Thu - Sat: 12 pm - 8 pm
- Drinks: Revolution Rye, Burnt Rock Bourbon, Maple Cask Rum, Old Fashioned Cocktail
- Address: 123 Church St, Burlington, VT 05401, United States
- Hours: Mon - Thu: 12 pm - 12 am; Fri & Sat: 12 pm - 2 am; Sun: 12 pm - 11 pm
- Drinks: Bud Light, Pale Ale, Cocktails: Pink and Bubbly, Classic Irish Coffee, Martini, Winter Negroni
15 Where To Stay In Burlington, Vermont
Accommodations in Burlington are cozy, comfortable, and come at a range of price points.
Hotels
- Address: 41 Cherry Street, Burlington, VT 05401
- Price: From $394
- Amenities: Tennis court, fitness center, pool, garden, bar, restaurant, laundry facilities, EV charging station
- Address: 349 South Willard Street, Burlington, VT
- Price: From $292
- Amenities: Complimentary breakfast, garden, patio, free parking, lake view, fireplace
Courtyard Marriott Burlington Harbor
- Address: 25 Cherry Street, Burlington, VT 05401
- Price: From $259
- Amenities: Hot tub, indoor pool, fitness center, beach access, EV charging station, picnic area, on-site ATM, bar, restaurant
Hilton Garden Inn Burlington Downtown
- Address: 101 Main Street, Burlington, VT 05401
- Price: From $211
- Amenities: Indoor pool, fitness center, laundry facilities, free shuttle service, business center, restaurant, bar
Vacation Rentals
- Address: Burlington, Vermont, United States
- Price: From $854
- Amenities: 4 bedrooms, 1.5 baths, 48-inch TV, well-stocked kitchen, porch, city view, washer & dryer, private backyard
Cottage near Downtown Burlington
- Address: Burlington, Vermont, United States
- Price: From $344
- Amenities: 2 bedrooms, 1 bath, washer & dryer, queen beds, loft space, lake access, travel crib, children’s books, full kitchen, private patio
- Address: Burlington, Vermont, United States
- Price: From $133
- Amenities: Second-floor studio, double & single beds, 43-inch TV, driveway parking, full kitchen facilities, workspace, private backyard
16 Best Time To Visit Burlington, Vermont
The best time to visit Vermont is the warmer months from May to September. Below is a deeper look at what to expect during the different seasons in Burlington.
Summer (June to August)
This is the best time to visit Burlington for a lot of people as the weather is warm and pleasant with temperatures ranging between the high 70s and the low 80s (25 to 27 Celsius).
This is a great time to enjoy outdoor activities like hiking, swimming, and boating.
However, there are also chances of some rainy days, especially in June, so visitors should prepare for changes in the weather. Also, summer is the high tourist season, meaning prices are higher at this time.
Autumn (September to November)
The beauty of fall foliage makes Burlington a breathtaking destination. During this time, the weather is neither hot nor cold, especially in September and October.
November, however, gets a bit chilly, with temperatures dropping to the mid-40s and below.
Winter (December to February)
Burlington gets quite cold in winter, with temperatures below freezing and sometimes dropping as low as 10 Fahrenheit (-12 Celsius). However, there are a number of ways one can experience the charms of winter in this city.
For instance, lovers of winter sports can enjoy activities like snowboarding and skiing. Plus, there are several holiday events in Burlington during this season.
Spring (March to May)
Temperatures start to rise slightly in March, but it remains cold until May. Spring’s weather is unpredictable, as it’s more likely to rain during this time. However, those who visit will enjoy lower rates since there are fewer tourists.
17 Getting Around Burlington
Burlington is served by the Burlington International Airport, which receives flights from cities like New York, Washington DC, Chicago, Philadelphia, and Atlanta. The airlines that operate here are Delta, JetBlue, United, and American Airlines.
From the airport, visitors can use public transportation, rental cars, or rideshare services like Uber or Lyft.
Here’s a look at the different ways one can use to get around Burlington.
Bus
Green Mountain Transit is a public transportation system that serves Burlington as well as other towns in the region. The bus service operates on a number of routes in Burlington, with rides available from around 6 am to 11 pm on some routes.
Fares cost $1.50 for a single ride and monthly passes cost $40.
Bike
Visitors can take advantage of the network of biking and walking paths in Burlington by renting a bike to get around the city. There are bike rental companies like Betty’s Bikes, which offer short-term and long-term rentals.
On Foot
This is the most inexpensive way to explore Burlington. The downtown area is walkable and there are various paths that lead to the waterfront and the parks.
18 Spending The Perfect Day In Burlington, Vermont
Start the day with a morning walk or jog along the Burlington Greenway Path and enjoy the early lake view. Afterward, have breakfast at a local restaurant before visiting Shelburne Museum.
Spend time exploring the exhibition buildings and the grounds before heading to Oakledge Park for a picnic lunch. Spend some time relaxing at the park and by the lake. Later, visit Ethan Allen Homestead Museum and check out the historic house and its exhibits.
From here, stroll in the downtown area before taking an evening dinner cruise on Lake Champlain. After the cruise, catch a performance at the Flynn Center for the Performing Arts to end a fun-filled day.
FAQ
Q: Is Burlington Vermont worth visiting?
Burlington is worth visiting thanks to its stunning scenery marked by Lake Champlain; the city is located on the lake's shores. Burlington is also home to the University of Vermont, one of the oldest universities in the US.
Q: What is the famous street in Burlington?
Church Street is one of the most famous streets in Burlington. It is a pedestrian-only street that's the city's hub for shopping and dining. The street has a history that dates as far back as the early 1800s, although it was redesigned after World War II.
Ben & Jerry's Ice Cream Company's first shop was actually set up right around the corner from Church Street.
Q: How far is Burlington from the Canadian border?
Burlington is about 40 miles from the Canadian border, roughly a 40-minute drive away.