10 Fun Things To Do In And Around Burlington, Vermont
If you’re dreaming about a laid-back New England getaway,
Burlington, Vermont is hard to beat. This small city on the shores of
Lake Champlain has a relaxed vibe, great food, and plenty of outdoor adventure.
Whether you’re planning a long weekend, a family vacation, or a quick road trip, here are
10 awesome things to do in and near Burlington that will give you a true taste of Vermont.
1. Stroll (And Snack) Your Way Down Church Street Marketplace
Right in downtown Burlington, the
Church Street Marketplace is the heart of the city. This pedestrian-only street stretches for about four blocks and feels a bit like a European plaza, but with a distinctly Vermont twist.
You’ll find:
- Outdoor cafes and coffee shops
- Local boutiques and bookshops
- Street musicians and performers
- Seasonal festivals and live events
If you’re visiting in summer, grab a maple creemee (soft-serve ice cream with maple flavor) and wander. In winter, the whole area is lit up with twinkling lights, and it feels cozy even when it’s freezing.
It’s a great first stop to get your bearings and people-watch. Plus, you can park once and walk to a lot of other downtown attractions.
2. Walk or Bike the Burlington Waterfront & Bike Path
One of the best things to do in Burlington is simply to enjoy the
waterfront on Lake Champlain. The
Burlington Bike Path (also called the Burlington Greenway) runs roughly 8 miles along the lake and offers gorgeous views of the Adirondack Mountains in New York.
You can:
- Walk a short section at sunset
- Rent bikes and ride the full path
- Bring a picnic and stop at one of the lakeside parks
If you’re traveling with kids, the path is mostly flat and easy, with plenty of spots to rest. On a clear day, the views across the lake are hard to beat.
Tip: Start near Waterfront Park and head north. Even a 30-minute stroll will give you postcard-worthy views.
3. Cruise Lake Champlain By Boat
You can’t talk about Burlington without talking about
Lake Champlain
Scenic boat cruises – Relaxing tours with narration about local history and landmarks.
Sunset cruises – Great for couples or groups of friends; the sky over the Adirondacks can turn amazing shades of pink and orange.
Kayak or paddleboard rentals – For a more active experience along the shoreline.
If you’re visiting in summer or early fall, this is one of the best Burlington activities for soaking up the scenery. On breezy days, bring a light jacket—it can feel cooler on the water than it does on land.
4. Explore Local Flavors at the Burlington Farmers Market
If you’re in town on a weekend (especially from late spring through fall), check out the
Burlington Farmers Market. It’s usually held on Saturdays and is one of the most popular things to do for both locals and visitors.
Expect:
- Fresh produce from nearby Vermont farms
- Artisan breads, cheeses, and maple syrup
- Food stands selling everything from tacos to dumplings
- Handmade crafts, soaps, and jewelry
It’s an easy place to grab breakfast or lunch. You can stock up for a picnic by the lake or pick up gifts to take home.
If you like to “eat like a local,” this is a perfect way to taste what Chittenden County farms are growing and making.
5. Visit the ECHO, Leahy Center for Lake Champlain
Traveling with kids—or just curious about nature and science? Head to
ECHO, Leahy Center for Lake Champlain, right on the Burlington waterfront.
This family-friendly science and nature museum is focused on:
- The ecology of Lake Champlain
- Interactive science exhibits
- Live animal displays (think turtles, fish, frogs)
It’s a great place to escape a rainy or cold day while still learning about Vermont and its environment. Little ones can climb, touch, and explore, and adults will appreciate the exhibits about the lake’s history and local wildlife.
Bonus: The outdoor area offers beautiful lake views when you’re done exploring inside.
6. Taste Vermont at Local Breweries and Cideries
Vermont is famous for its
craft beer, and Burlington is one of the best places to sample it. Within Burlington and the surrounding Chittenden County area, you’ll find a bunch of great breweries and cideries.
Some local favorites (always check current hours before you go):
- Breweries with IPAs, lagers, and seasonal brews
- Cideries pouring hard ciders made with local apples
- Taprooms with food trucks or small bites
Even if you’re not a huge beer fan, many spots offer:
- Non-alcoholic options
- Outdoor seating
- Board games or casual live music
It can be fun to set up a mini “brewery crawl” by ride-share or on foot if places are close together. Just remember to plan a safe ride back to your hotel or rental.
7. Drive Up to Mount Philo State Park (Short Hike, Big Views)
About 25–30 minutes south of Burlington, still in the greater Champlain Valley region, you’ll find
Mount Philo State Park. It’s a small mountain by Vermont standards, but the views from the top are huge.
You can:
- Hike up from the base (about 1 mile each way, depending on the route)
- Drive most of the way up in season and walk a short distance to the viewpoints
From the summit, you’ll see:
- Lake Champlain
- The Adirondack Mountains across the lake
- Rolling farmland in the Champlain Valley
This is a great half-day trip if you want to get out of the city but don’t want a serious backcountry hike. Pack water, a light snack, and a light jacket—the wind can pick up at the top.
8. Discover the Burlington Arts & Music Scene
Burlington may be small, but it has a surprisingly rich
arts and music scene. You’ll see murals, local galleries, and live music just by exploring downtown.
Here are a few ways to dip into the creative side of the city:
- Check out local galleries near Church Street and the South End.
- Look for murals and public art as you walk around.
- Catch a show at a local music venue or bar—genres range from folk to rock to jam bands.
If you time it right, you might stumble into a street festival, outdoor concert, or seasonal event. Burlington tends to lean into community gatherings, especially in the warmer months.
9. Take a Scenic Drive to Shelburne Museum & Shelburne Farms
Just a short drive (about 15–20 minutes) south of Burlington in Chittenden County, the town of
Shelburne offers two major attractions that are absolutely worth the trip.
Shelburne Museum
This unique, mostly outdoor museum brings together:
- Historic buildings moved to the site
- Art collections and folk art
- A restored steamboat and vintage carousel
It feels like a mix between a history village and an art museum. Plan a few hours if you love wandering and discovering quirky details.
Shelburne Farms
This working farm and education center sits on a beautiful 1,400+ acre property along Lake Champlain. You can:
- Walk farm trails
- Visit the barnyard area
- Sample cheese made on site
Both spots are very kid-friendly but just as enjoyable for adults looking for classic Vermont scenery.
10. Enjoy All Four Seasons: Pick Your Burlington Adventure
One of the best things about visiting Burlington, Vermont is that each season feels completely different. Depending on when you come, your list of “things to do” might look totally unique.
Here’s a quick rundown:
Spring
- Maple sugaring season (late winter into early spring)
- Early hikes as the snow melts
- Less crowded downtown and trails
Summer
- Swimming and paddling on Lake Champlain
- Farmers markets and outdoor dining
- Biking and hiking with long daylight hours
Fall
- Famous Vermont fall foliage drives
- Crisp hikes with colorful views
- Apple picking and seasonal festivals
Winter
- Day trips to nearby ski areas
- Snowshoeing or cross-country skiing
- Cozy cafes and breweries to warm up in
If you’re flexible with travel dates, think about what kind of experience you want: swimming and sunsets, or snow and hot chocolate?
Final Thoughts: Why Burlington, Vermont Belongs On Your Travel List
Burlington offers a mix that’s hard to find in one place:
- A walkable small city with good food and local shops
- Easy access to Lake Champlain and mountain views
- Plenty of things to do for couples, families, and solo travelers
You can spend one day eating and shopping on Church Street, the next day hiking or exploring farms, and still feel like there’s more to see.
If you’re planning a New England road trip, or just looking for a new long-weekend escape,
Burlington, Vermont in Chittenden County deserves a spot on your list.
Share Your Burlington Experience
Have you been to Burlington or somewhere nearby on Lake Champlain?
- What was your favorite thing to do?
- Did you find a great coffee shop, hike, or hidden viewpoint?
Drop your tips and stories in the comments—they might help the next traveler plan their perfect Vermont getaway.
And if you found this guide helpful, please
share it with a friend who’s dreaming about a trip to Burlington, Vermont!
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