25+ Sights and Things to Do in Burlington, VT
Discover the vibrant city of Burlington, Vermont, and immerse yourself in a world of exciting activities and captivating sights. Whether you’re a local seeking weekend thrills or a visitor looking to make the most of your time here, our listicle of Things to Do in Burlington, VT, has got you covered.
From scenic outdoor adventures to cultural hotspots and delectable treats, Burlington offers something for everyone. Get ready for an unforgettable experience in this charming Vermont city.
Natural Beauty in Burlington
1. Burlington Greenway Bike & Walk Path
Grab a bike or go for a leisurely stroll along the Burlington Greenway, which winds its way along the scenic Lake Champlain shoreline. Enjoy breathtaking views and fresh air as you explore the city’s natural beauty.
2. Winooski River
Embark on a kayaking or canoeing adventure along the serene Winooski River. Marvel at the picturesque landscapes and observe the local wildlife as you paddle through peaceful waters.
3. North Beach Park
Unwind and soak up the sun at North Beach Park, a sandy oasis nestled on the shores of Lake Champlain. Enjoy swimming, picnicking, or simply basking in the beauty of Vermont’s largest beach.
4. Walking Trails
Lace up your hiking boots and explore Burlington’s network of walking trails. From the scenic Intervale to the serene Ethan Allen Homestead, these trails offer a perfect escape into nature.
5. Mount Philo State Park
For breathtaking panoramic views of Lake Champlain and the Adirondack Mountains, head to Mount Philo State Park. Hike or drive to the summit and be rewarded with stunning vistas, making it a perfect spot for a picnic or a serene sunset experience.
6. Waterfront Park
Located along the shores of Lake Champlain, Burlington’s Waterfront Park is a hub of outdoor activity. Take a leisurely stroll, rent a bike, or have a picnic while enjoying the beautiful lake views. Keep an eye out for live performances and events that often take place here during the summer months.
7. Ethan Allen Park
Nestled on a hilltop, Ethan Allen Park offers a peaceful retreat within the city. Explore the park’s wooded trails, enjoy a scenic picnic, and climb the iconic 50-foot tower for a panoramic view of Burlington and its surroundings.
8. Stand-Up Paddleboards
Experience Lake Champlain in a unique way by renting stand-up paddleboards. Glide along the calm waters, soak up the stunning views, and enjoy a refreshing workout.
Sips and Sights
9. Craft Breweries
Explore Burlington’s thriving craft brewery scene beyond the tour. Visit popular breweries like Switchback Brewing Company, Zero Gravity Craft Brewery, and Foam Brewers to savor unique flavors and enjoy lively atmospheres.
Pro-tip: Burlington has so many great craft breweries that it’s almost impossible to visit them all in one visit. Luckily, you can get behind-the-scenes stops at some of the best breweries with City Brew Tours Burlington. These Burlington brewery tours include tons of craft beer samples at multiple brewery stops with a professional and experienced tour guide. Enjoy the round trip transportation provided by City Brew Tours Burlington so you can just sit back and sip on Burlington’s finest brews.
10. Citizen Cider
Indulge in the crisp and refreshing flavors of Vermont’s renowned craft ciders at Citizen Cider. Visit their taproom in Burlington to sample a variety of small-batch ciders made from locally sourced apples, and learn about the cider-making process.
11. Queen City Ghostwalk
Embark on a unique and spine-tingling journey through Burlington’s haunted history with the Queen City Ghostwalk. Join an expert guide on an evening walking tour, visiting historic sites and hearing captivating tales of local legends and ghostly encounters.
12. Ben & Jerry’s
Take a short trip outside Burlington to Waterbury and visit the iconic Ben & Jerry’s Ice Cream Factory. Enjoy a guided tour, learn about the company’s history, and of course, savor their delicious ice cream creations.
13. Dedalus Wine Shop, Market & Wine Bar
Discover a world of wine at Dedalus, a unique wine shop, market, and wine bar in Burlington. Browse their thoughtfully curated selection of wines from around the globe, enjoy a glass or flight at their cozy wine bar, and indulge in artisanal cheeses and charcuterie.
14. Vermont Teddy Bear Company
Delight in a visit to the Vermont Teddy Bear Company, where you can explore their charming factory and witness the creation of these iconic stuffed animals. Take a guided tour to learn about the craftsmanship behind each bear and even create your own personalized teddy bear to cherish as a memento of your visit.
15. Lake Champlain Ferries
Experience the beauty of Lake Champlain by hopping aboard one of the Lake Champlain Ferries. Take a leisurely cruise across the lake, enjoying scenic views of the surrounding landscapes and the Adirondack Mountains. Whether you’re commuting between Vermont and New York or simply seeking a tranquil lake excursion, the ferry ride offers a unique perspective of Burlington and its surroundings.
16. Ethan Allen Homestead Museum
Step back in time and explore the historic homestead of Vermont’s founding father, Ethan Allen. Visit the Ethan Allen Homestead Museum to learn about Allen’s significant role in American history and immerse yourself in the early days of Vermont through informative exhibits and guided tours of the restored buildings and gardens.
Cultural Centers
17. Shelburne Museum
Immerse yourself in history and art at the renowned Shelburne Museum. With its diverse collection of Americana, folk art, and historical artifacts, this museum promises an enriching cultural experience.
18. Frog Hollow Craft Center
Delve into Vermont’s vibrant artisan scene at the Frog Hollow Craft Center. Discover unique, handmade crafts and support local artists while finding the perfect keepsake to remember your trip.
19. Fleming Museum of Art
Engage your artistic side at the Fleming Museum of Art, located on the University of Vermont campus. Explore an impressive collection spanning centuries and continents, showcasing both traditional and contemporary works.
20. Interactive Exhibits at the ECHO Leahy Center
Feed your curiosity at ECHO Leahy Center for Lake Champlain. This science and nature center features interactive exhibits that educate and entertain visitors of all ages, making it an ideal family outing.
21. Vermont Comedy Club
Get ready for a night of laughter and entertainment at the Vermont Comedy Club. This popular venue hosts a variety of comedy shows, featuring both local talents and renowned comedians from across the country. Sit back, relax, and prepare to be amused by hilarious stand-up performances that will leave you in stitches.
22. Flynn Center for the Performing Arts
Immerse yourself in the vibrant arts scene of Burlington at the Flynn Center for the Performing Arts. Catch a captivating theater production, enjoy a mesmerizing dance performance, or listen to live music concerts featuring a diverse range of genres. The Flynn Center is a cultural hub that showcases talent from local, national, and international artists.
23. Higher Ground
Immerse yourself in Burlington’s vibrant music scene at Higher Ground, a renowned live music venue. From intimate shows in the Showcase Lounge to larger concerts in the Ballroom, this venue hosts a diverse range of musical acts, including local talents and renowned performers from various genres.
24. Radio Bean
For a more intimate and cozy music experience, head to Radio Bean, a beloved local café and live music venue. Enjoy a cup of coffee or a craft beer while listening to talented musicians who grace the stage every night. From folk to jazz to indie rock, Radio Bean offers a relaxed setting to discover new sounds.
Burlington Markets
25. Burlington Farmers Market
Embrace the farm-to-table culture at the Burlington Farmers Market. Sample fresh produce, artisanal cheeses, and other local delights while supporting Vermont’s vibrant agricultural community.
26. Church Street Marketplace
Enjoy a leisurely stroll along the bustling Church Street Marketplace on a warm day in Burlington. Shop for unique gifts, indulge in local cuisine, and catch street performances that add to the vibrant atmosphere of this pedestrian-friendly destination.
27. Lake Champlain Chocolates
Treat your taste buds to a sweet adventure at Lake Champlain Chocolates. Take a factory tour, learn about the chocolate-making process, and indulge in decadent handmade treats.