Burlington, Vermont, USA
Whether you're a nature enthusiast, a foodie, an art lover, or just looking for a relaxing getaway, Burlington has something to offer. Here's a list of places to go and things to do in Burlington, Vermont:
Church Street Marketplace: Start your exploration in the heart of Burlington at Church Street Marketplace. This pedestrian-friendly, cobblestone street is lined with shops, boutiques, restaurants, and street performers. It's a great place for shopping, dining, and people-watching.
Waterfront Park: Burlington's waterfront area along Lake Champlain is a gem. You can take a leisurely stroll or bike ride along the waterfront, have a picnic, or simply relax on the grass. The park also hosts events and festivals throughout the year.
ECHO Leahy Center for Lake Champlain: This interactive science and nature museum is perfect for families. It features a range of exhibits related to the ecology and history of Lake Champlain. Kids and adults alike will enjoy the hands-on displays and the opportunity to learn about the local ecosystem.
Lake Champlain Cruises: Take a boat tour on Lake Champlain to enjoy breathtaking views of the Adirondack Mountains and the Vermont shoreline. Various cruise options are available, including narrated tours, sunset cruises, and even dinner cruises.
Burlington Bike Path: If you're a biking enthusiast, the Burlington Bike Path is a must-do activity. This scenic path runs along the waterfront and offers stunning views of the lake and mountains. You can rent bikes at several locations in the city.
Shelburne Farms: Just a short drive from Burlington, Shelburne Farms is a beautiful historic estate and working farm. You can explore the walking trails, visit the farm animals, and even take a tour of the stunning mansion. It's a great place for a day trip.
Magic Hat Brewing Company: Vermont is known for its craft beer, and Magic Hat is one of the most well-known breweries in the area. Take a brewery tour to learn about the brewing process and sample some unique and delicious beers.
Ben & Jerry's Factory Tour: Another iconic Vermont institution, the Ben & Jerry's factory is a short drive from Burlington in Waterbury. You can take a tour of the factory, see how ice cream is made, and, of course, enjoy a scoop of your favorite flavor.
Flynn Center for the Performing Arts: If you're interested in the arts, check out the Flynn Center. It hosts a variety of performances, including concerts, theater productions, and dance shows. Be sure to see if there's a show scheduled during your visit.
Hike in the Green Mountains: Burlington is surrounded by the Green Mountains, offering numerous hiking opportunities. Some popular trails include Mount Philo State Park, Camel's Hump State Park, and Mount Mansfield, Vermont's highest peak.
Farmers' Markets: Vermont is known for its fresh, local produce and artisanal products. Check out the Burlington Farmers' Market on Saturdays for a taste of the local food scene. You'll find everything from fresh vegetables to artisanal cheeses and handmade crafts.
Ethan Allen Homestead: Learn about Vermont's history by visiting the Ethan Allen Homestead. This historic site includes the restored home of Ethan Allen, one of Vermont's founders. Take a guided tour to get insights into early Vermont life.
Battery Park: This small park offers stunning views of Lake Champlain and the Adirondack Mountains. It's a peaceful place to relax, have a picnic, or simply enjoy the beauty of nature.
Champlain Chocolate Factory Tour: Chocolate lovers won't want to miss a tour of Lake Champlain Chocolates. You can see how these delicious chocolates are made and, of course, sample some of their sweet creations.
Local Dining: Burlington boasts a diverse culinary scene. Try local specialties like Vermont cheddar cheese, maple syrup, and farm-to-table cuisine. Some popular restaurants include Hen of the Wood, The Farmhouse Tap & Grill, and Penny Cluse Café.
Outdoor Recreation: Depending on the season, you can enjoy activities like skiing and snowboarding at nearby resorts in the winter or swimming, paddleboarding, and kayaking on Lake Champlain in the summer.
Fleming Museum of Art: Located on the University of Vermont campus, the Fleming Museum houses an impressive collection of art and artifacts. It's a great place to explore both classical and contemporary works.
Intervale Center: This nonprofit organization promotes sustainable farming practices. You can visit the Intervale to learn about local agriculture, take a guided tour, or even volunteer on the farm.
Birdwatching: Burlington is a great spot for birdwatching, especially during migration seasons. Head to places like the Ethan Allen Homestead or the Green Mountain Audubon Center for excellent birding opportunities.
Burlington City Arts: Check out the latest exhibitions and events at Burlington City Arts. This contemporary art center showcases the work of local and regional artists and often hosts interactive exhibits.
Hit the Beach: When the weather is warm, enjoy the sandy shores of North Beach or Oakledge Park Beach on Lake Champlain. It's a great way to cool off and soak up the sun.
Explore Nearby Towns: Consider taking day trips to nearby towns like Stowe, Middlebury, or Montpelier to experience more of Vermont's charm and beauty.
Coffee Shops and Cafés: Burlington has a thriving coffee culture. Visit spots like Maglianero, Scout & Co., and Speeder & Earl's for a cozy coffee break.
Festival Season: Depending on when you visit, Burlington hosts various festivals throughout the year. The Burlington Discover Jazz Festival and the Vermont Brewers Festival are two notable events to check out.
Local Bookstores: If you're a bookworm, browse the shelves at independent bookstores like Phoenix Books and Crow Bookshop for a wide selection of literature.
Admire Street Art: Burlington is known for its vibrant street art scene. Take a walk around the city to discover colorful murals and graffiti art.
Burlington Greenway: This scenic trail stretches for miles along Lake Champlain and is perfect for walking, jogging, or biking. It offers gorgeous lake views and connects various parks and attractions.
Ethan Allen Park: Climb to the top of the tower at Ethan Allen Park for panoramic views of Burlington and the surrounding landscape.
Spirit of Ethan Allen: Enjoy a dinner cruise on the Spirit of Ethan Allen III for a unique dining experience with stunning sunset views over Lake Champlain.
Visit in Fall: If you can, plan your visit during the fall when Vermont's foliage is at its peak. The vibrant colors of the changing leaves are a sight to behold.
Visit Burlington, Vermont, USA
Discover the people who lived there, the places they visited and the stories they shared.