Burlington, VT, United States
Vermont's largest city punches far above its weight, offering a vibrant downtown, stunning Lake Champlain waterfront, and easy access to the Green Mountains. Burlington's progressive spirit shines through its farm-to-table dining scene, thriving arts community, and the pedestrian-only Church Street Marketplace. The University of Vermont brings youthful energy, while Ben & Jerry's ice cream was born just down the road. Four distinct seasons offer year-round appeal—leaf peeping in fall, skiing in winter, hiking and biking in summer, and maple sugaring in spring. This is Vermont at its most accessible and charming.
Top Attractions in Burlington, VT
- Church Street Marketplace — This four-block pedestrian mall is the heart of Burlington, lined with local shops, restaurants, and street performers. The brick walkway passes historic buildings housing everything from independent bookstores to Vermont craft galleries. Outdoor dining in summer and holiday markets in winter keep it lively year-round.
- Lake Champlain Waterfront — The stunning lakefront offers beaches, a bike path stretching for miles, and ECHO Leahy Center for Lake Champlain. Watch sunsets over the Adirondack Mountains across the water, rent kayaks or paddleboards, or take a ferry to New York State. The Burlington Greenway connects waterfront parks.
- Ben & Jerry's Factory — The famous ice cream company offers factory tours just 30 minutes from Burlington in Waterbury. Learn the company's quirky history, watch production lines (weekdays), and enjoy generous samples. Don't miss the Flavor Graveyard honoring discontinued favorites.
- Stowe & Green Mountains — World-class skiing and summer recreation await in the nearby mountains. Stowe offers legendary slopes, while Smugglers' Notch provides family-friendly adventure. In fall, the mountain roads become spectacular foliage drives, and the Long Trail offers premier hiking.
- Vermont Craft Breweries — Burlington anchors one of America's best craft beer scenes. Magic Hat, Foam Brewers, and Zero Gravity headline the local offerings, with the Vermont Brewery Trail connecting dozens more. Many pair excellent food with their brews, and tours offer behind-the-scenes peeks.
Travel Info
- Best time to visit: June to October, December to March for skiing
- Average temperature: 7°C (45°F) annual average
- Currency: USD ($)
Typical Costs
- Quick Lunch (Café Sandwich): $10 – $15
- Dinner (Farm-to-Table Restaurant): $30 – $50
- Coffee (Local Roast): $4 – $6
- Local Bus (GMT): $1.50
- Airport Transfer (BTV to Downtown): $15 – $25