10 Fun Things To Do Near South Burlington, Vermont (Chittenden County)
If you’re planning a trip to
South Burlington, Vermont, you’re in a great spot. This small city in
Chittenden County is just minutes from Burlington and Lake Champlain, and it’s packed with easy outdoor adventures, local food, and classic New England charm.
Whether you’re on a weekend getaway, a road trip through Vermont, or just visiting friends or family, here are
10 things to do near South Burlington that are worth your time.
1. Stroll (and Eat!) Your Way Down Church Street Marketplace
Just a short drive from South Burlington,
Church Street Marketplace in downtown Burlington is a must-see. It’s a pedestrian-only street lined with shops, restaurants, and cafés.
- Grab a coffee and people-watch on a bench.
- Pop into local boutiques for Vermont-made gifts.
- Try a maple creemee (Vermont’s twist on soft-serve ice cream).
On summer evenings, you might catch live music or street performers. In winter, the lights strung along the street make it feel like a cozy holiday movie.
Tip: Parking garages are nearby and usually pretty easy to use. If you don’t like parallel parking, you’re covered.
2. Relax by the Water at Oakledge Park & Lake Champlain
If you want a classic “Vermont by the lake” moment, head to
Oakledge Park in Burlington, just west of South Burlington.
Here you’ll find:
- Rocky and grassy lakefront spots
- Swimming areas and a small beach
- Picnic tables and grills
- Walking and biking paths
On a clear day, you’ll see the Adirondack Mountains across
Lake Champlain. Sunsets here are the kind that make you stop talking and just stare.
If you’re more active, hop on the nearby
Burlington Bike Path, which runs along the lake for miles. You can walk, jog, or bike, and there are plenty of places to stop for photos.
3. Sip Local Beer on the South Burlington & Burlington Brewery Trail
Vermont is famous for craft beer, and South Burlington sits right in the middle of it. Beer lovers will have plenty to keep them busy.
Some local favorites to look for in South Burlington and nearby Burlington include:
- Zero Gravity – Known for easy-drinking IPAs and a friendly taproom.
- Switchback Brewing – Classic, unfiltered ales with a casual vibe.
- Foam Brewers – For creative brews right by the waterfront in Burlington.
You don’t have to be a beer expert. Just order a flight, ask the staff what’s popular, and try a few different styles. Many spots also have food trucks or snacks, so you can make an afternoon of it.
Always plan a safe ride. Use a rideshare, taxi, or a designated driver.
4. Explore Red Rocks Park for Easy Trails and Lake Views
Looking for something outdoorsy but not too intense?
Red Rocks Park in South Burlington is perfect.
Here you’ll find:
- Well-marked walking trails through the woods
- Clifftop viewpoints over Lake Champlain
- Quiet spots to sit and take in the scenery
Most of the trails are short and not very steep, so it’s a good place for families, casual walkers, or anyone just wanting a quick nature break.
In summer and fall, it’s especially beautiful. Just remember to stay behind the safety signs near the cliffs.
5. Visit the University of Vermont Campus & Fleming Museum of Art
Right next door in Burlington, the
University of Vermont (UVM) campus feels like a classic New England college setting, with brick buildings and open green spaces.
While you’re there, check out the:
- Fleming Museum of Art – A small but thoughtful art and anthropology museum on campus.
It’s a nice change of pace if you’ve been outside all day. You can wander the galleries, then grab a coffee nearby and walk the campus.
If you’re visiting with a high school student, it’s also an easy chance to see what a Vermont college town feels like.
6. Shop and Snack at City Market and Local Farm Stands
Food is a big part of the Vermont experience, and South Burlington gives you easy access to lots of local flavors.
Make a stop at:
- City Market / Onion River Co-op (Burlington and South End) – Packed with local cheese, maple syrup, baked goods, and ready-to-eat meals.
- Seasonal farm stands and roadside veggie stands around Chittenden County.
This is the place to pick up:
- Local cheddar cheese
- Real Vermont maple syrup
- Fresh bread or pies
- Snacks for a picnic or hike
If you’ve ever wanted to taste what “local and organic” actually means, this region is a good place to find out.
7. Get Outside on the South Burlington Rec Paths
You don’t have to drive far for a walk or bike ride.
South Burlington’s recreation paths wind through neighborhoods, fields, and small wooded areas.
These paved paths are:
- Good for walking, running, or biking
- Family-friendly and stroller-friendly
- A nice way to see everyday life in South Burlington
If you like to start your day with some movement, these paths are a simple way to do that without needing a full “hike.” It feels less like a tourist activity and more like living here for a day.
8. Drive to Shelburne Museum & Shelburne Farms
Just south of South Burlington, in nearby
Shelburne, you’ll find two of the most popular attractions in Chittenden County.
Shelburne Museum is not your typical museum. It’s spread across dozens of buildings on a big, open property. You’ll see:
- Historic buildings moved from around New England
- Folk art and fine art
- A lighthouse and a huge steamboat you can walk onto
Right down the road,
Shelburne Farms offers:
- Walking trails with lake and mountain views
- Farm animals and a children’s farmyard (seasonal)
- World-famous cheddar cheese made on-site
If you have kids—or just love farms and history—this combo makes a perfect day trip from South Burlington.
9. Hit the Slopes or Trails at Bolton Valley or Beyond
Visiting in winter or shoulder seasons? You’re within easy reach of Vermont mountain fun.
Bolton Valley Resort, in Chittenden County, is about a 40–50 minute drive from South Burlington (depending on conditions). In winter, you can:
- Ski or snowboard on a range of trails
- Try night skiing under the lights
- Snowshoe or cross-country ski on groomed trails
In summer and fall, Bolton opens its trails for:
- Hiking
- Mountain biking
- Scenic chairlift rides (check seasonal schedules)
If you’ve never skied in New England before, this is a nice introduction—big enough to be fun, but not overwhelming.
10. Catch a Show or Game in Downtown Burlington
When you’re done exploring trails and lakes, it’s time for some evening entertainment.
Near South Burlington, Burlington’s downtown and waterfront area offer:
- Flynn Center for the Performing Arts – Plays, concerts, comedy, and more.
- Local music at small venues and bars.
- University of Vermont and Champlain College sports events in season.
On a warm night, you can even just walk down to the waterfront after dinner and enjoy the lights reflecting on Lake Champlain.
If you like your trips to include a mix of nature and nightlife, South Burlington’s location makes it easy to do both.
Final Thoughts: Why South Burlington Makes a Great Home Base
South Burlington might not shout for attention the way some bigger cities do, but that’s part of its charm. You get:
- Quick access to Lake Champlain
- A short drive to downtown Burlington
- Easy day trips to mountains and farms
- Plenty of local food, craft beer, and small-town vibes
It’s the kind of place where you can spend the morning on a forest trail, the afternoon by the lake, and the evening at a cozy restaurant—without ever driving very far.
What Would You Add to This South Burlington Bucket List?
Have you visited
South Burlington or elsewhere in
Chittenden County?
- What was your favorite thing to do?
- Did you find a secret swimming spot, a great café, or a perfect sunset lookout?
Share your tips and experiences in the comments so other travelers can discover new things to do near South Burlington, Vermont.
If you found this guide helpful,
send it to a friend planning a Vermont trip or share it on your favorite social media. The more we share, the easier it is for others to enjoy this beautiful corner of New England.
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