🌴 Explore Burlington, Vermont
Nestled between the shores of Lake Champlain and the Green Mountains, Burlington is Vermont’s largest city — a charming, progressive hub known for its natural beauty, lively arts scene, and eco-conscious spirit. With its walkable downtown, colorful sunsets, and farm-to-table food culture, Burlington blends small-town coziness with big personality.
📌 Quick Facts
| Fact | Details |
|---|---|
| State | Vermont |
| Country | United States |
| Population | ~45,000 (metro ~220,000) |
| Time Zone | EST (UTC -5:00) / EDT (UTC -4:00, DST) |
| Currency | US Dollar (USD) |
| Nearest Airport | Burlington International Airport (BTV) |
| Languages | English |
| Climate | Humid continental – Cold winters, warm summers |
| Best Time to Visit | May to October for warm weather, fall foliage, and festivals |
🧭 Top Attractions in Burlington
🌅 Waterfront Park & Lake Champlain
A scenic spot for biking, kayaking, and watching breathtaking sunsets over the Adirondacks. Don’t miss the Burlington Bike Path, a lakeside trail stretching for miles.
🧀 Church Street Marketplace
A bustling open-air pedestrian street lined with shops, cafés, street performers, and local boutiques — the cultural heart of downtown Burlington.
🏛️ ECHO, Leahy Center for Lake Champlain
An interactive science and nature museum for all ages, focusing on ecology, wildlife, and the history of the lake region.
🎨 South End Arts District
A revitalized warehouse district filled with studios, murals, breweries, and galleries showcasing local creativity and community spirit.
🍴 Where to Eat & Drink
Burlington’s food scene is fresh, local, and often organic — reflecting its strong farm-to-table ethos:
- Hen of the Wood – A refined, seasonal menu spotlighting Vermont-sourced ingredients in an intimate setting
- The Farmhouse Tap & Grill – A favorite for grass-fed burgers, local cheese plates, and craft beer
- Penny Cluse Café – A beloved brunch spot with hearty breakfast plates and cozy vibes
- American Flatbread – Wood-fired pizzas made with organic dough and regional toppings
Don’t miss Vermont staples like maple syrup, cheddar cheese, apple cider donuts, and locally brewed IPAs.
🏨 Where to Stay
Burlington offers cozy, scenic accommodations from lakeside inns to hip downtown hotels:
- Hotel Vermont – A modern, eco-friendly hotel with local artwork and a strong Vermont identity
- Hilton Burlington Lake Champlain – Great location with sweeping views of the lake and mountains
- Made INN Vermont – A funky, art-filled B&B with personal touches and rooftop views
- Budget motels and lodges – Found along Route 7 and just outside the city center
🛍️ Shopping & Souvenirs
Burlington is full of handmade goods, artisan crafts, and Vermont-made treats:
- Church Street Marketplace – Perfect for browsing local boutiques, bookstores, and artisan shops
- Burlington Farmers Market – Held Saturdays, featuring produce, crafts, baked goods, and live music
- Local art galleries – Especially in the South End, ideal for finding one-of-a-kind prints and pottery
- Souvenirs – Look for pure maple syrup, locally roasted coffee, hand-knitted scarves, and Vermont-made skincare
🧳 Travel Information
Getting There:
- 🛫 By air: Burlington International Airport (BTV) has connections to major East Coast cities
- 🚗 By car: Easily reached via I-89 from Boston (3.5 hrs), Montreal (2 hrs), or Albany (3 hrs)
- 🚌 By bus: Greyhound, Megabus, and regional lines serve downtown Burlington
- 🚆 By train: Amtrak’s Ethan Allen Express connects Burlington to New York City
Getting Around:
- Downtown is very walkable, especially around Church Street and the waterfront
- Green Mountain Transit provides local bus service around the city and to nearby towns
- Bike and scooter shares are available seasonally
- Car rentals and rideshares are great for exploring the wider Lake Champlain region or Green Mountains
Safety Tip: Burlington is safe, friendly, and relaxed. Winters can be icy — wear appropriate footwear and drive cautiously if visiting during snow season.
💡 Local Tips
- 🍁 Visit in late September to mid-October for spectacular fall foliage in every direction
- 🧀 Take a tour of the Cabot Cheese store or visit nearby creameries for local samples
- 🚴 Ride the Island Line Rail Trail, including the stunning Colchester Causeway across Lake Champlain
- 🎶 Check out the Burlington Discover Jazz Festival (June) or a local show at Higher Ground