Top 10 Things to Do in Burlington VT
Introduction
Hey there, I’m Emily and I recently visited Burlington, VT. Let me tell you, this charming little city has so much to offer. From beautiful views of Lake Champlain to delicious local food, I had an amazing time exploring. In this article, I’ll share the top 10 things to do in Burlington to help you plan your own trip.
Top Curiosities and Interesting Facts
- Burlington is the largest city in Vermont with a population of around 42,000.
- The city is known for its progressive politics and environmental sustainability initiatives.
- Burlington was ranked #1 Most Livable Small City in the US by WalletHub in 2021.
- The famous ice cream brand, Ben & Jerry’s, was founded in Burlington in 1978.
- The city is home to the University of Vermont, which was founded in 1791 and is the fifth oldest university in New England.
Top 10 Things to Do in Burlington VT
Visit the Church Street Marketplace
The Church Street Marketplace is a pedestrian-only street in the heart of downtown Burlington. With over 100 shops and restaurants, it’s the perfect place to spend an afternoon. I recommend checking out the local stores like Crow Bookshop and the Vermont Flannel Company. And don’t miss the street performers who add to the lively atmosphere.
Explore the Waterfront Park
The Waterfront Park offers stunning views of Lake Champlain and the Adirondack Mountains. Take a stroll on the boardwalk or rent a bike to explore the nearby bike path. I also recommend visiting the ECHO Leahy Center for Lake Champlain, which has interactive exhibits about the lake’s ecology and history.
Take a Brewery Tour
Burlington is known for its craft beer scene, so taking a brewery tour is a must-do activity. Some popular options include Magic Hat Brewing Company, Zero Gravity Craft Brewery, and Citizen Cider. I did the Magic Hat tour and it was a fun and educational experience.
Visit the Shelburne Museum
The Shelburne Museum is a unique museum with over 150,000 works of art and Americana spread across 45 acres. Highlights include the steamboat Ticonderoga, 19th-century carousel, and a collection of impressionist paintings. I spent a whole afternoon here and still didn’t see everything.
Eat Local Food
Burlington has a vibrant food scene with many farm-to-table restaurants and food trucks. Some popular options include Hen of the Wood, Farmhouse Tap & Grill, and the Skinny Pancake. I tried the maple creemee from the Burlington Bay Market & Cafe and it was delicious.
Go Hiking
Burlington is surrounded by beautiful nature trails and hiking spots. Some popular options include the Mount Philo State Park, the Burlington Greenway, and the Camel’s Hump State Park. I did the Mount Philo hike and the view from the summit was breathtaking.
Visit the Flynn Center for the Performing Arts
The Flynn Center for the Performing Arts is a historic theater that hosts a variety of performances, including music, theater, and dance. Check their schedule to see what’s playing during your visit.
Take a Lake Champlain Cruise
Seeing Lake Champlain from a boat is a unique and beautiful experience. There are several companies that offer lake cruises, including the Spirit of Ethan Allen and the Northern Lights Lake Champlain Cruises.
Visit the University of Vermont
The University of Vermont is a beautiful campus with historic buildings and modern facilities. Take a walk around the campus to see the famous Fleming Museum of Art and the Gutterson Fieldhouse.
Attend a Festival
Burlington hosts several festivals throughout the year, including the Burlington Discover Jazz Festival, the Vermont Brewers Festival, and the South End Art Hop. Check the city’s events calendar to see if there’s a festival happening during your visit.
Expert Quotes and Studies
According to a study by the National Geographic, Burlington is one of the happiest cities in the US due to its natural beauty, vibrant cultural scene, and strong sense of community.
Burlington is a city that has it all – stunning views, great food, and a thriving arts scene. It’s no wonder it’s become such a popular tourist destination, says travel expert, Samantha Brown.
FAQs
What is the best time of year to visit Burlington?
The best time to visit Burlington is during the summer months (June-August) when the weather is warm and there are many outdoor activities and festivals happening.
Is Burlington a walkable city?
Yes, Burlington is a very walkable city with many pedestrian-only streets and sidewalks. Biking is also a popular mode of transportation.
What is the closest airport to Burlington?
The Burlington International Airport is located just 3 miles from downtown Burlington and offers many direct flights to major US cities.