The 14 Best Things to Do in Burlington VT-

Ever heard of Burlington? Well, it is the biggest city in Vermont, and it is located right by Lake Champlain. This place is known for its wonderful outdoor spaces like hiking trails and fishing spots. It’s also full of big trees and beautiful natural areas.

In this blog, I will share some of my favorite places and things to do. In Burlington, you’ll find great museums and delicious food. There are cozy village squares and art galleries to explore, too. Plus, with three colleges, including the University of Vermont, something new and exciting is always happening here.

People love Burlington for many reasons. It offers a mix of nature and city life, making it a popular place to live and visit.

When Is the Best Time to Visit Burlington?

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The best time to visit Burlington, Vermont is May and June. It is an ideal time if you’re looking to enjoy the outdoors and moderate weather. During these months, you get a chance to try Vermont’s famous maple syrup. The Vermont City Marathon also happens around this time, so you get more exciting options to explore at this time.

Besides May and June, there are plenty of things to do in Burlington. September and October are the fall season in Burlington. These months are also popular for apple picking, a must-do activity in the area. However, remember that this period can be more crowded and expensive.

Then there are snowy months. February is a perfect month to see the whole place covered in snow, which provides a completely different experience if you’re a winter sports enthusiast. Burlington’s winters can vary, with conditions perfect for skiing, snowboarding, and other winter activities. February is particularly known for its deep snow, which is ideal for skiing.

During the summer, especially in July and August, Burlington offers long days, warm weather, and a variety of outdoor activities like hiking and shopping at farmers’ markets. The city also hosts numerous festivals during these months.

Best Fun Things to Do in Burlington

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Burlington is full of fun and interesting things to do. You’ll find something great here whether you like art, history, nature, or good food. Let’s check out the top activities and places that excite Burlington.

#1. The S.P.A.C.E. Gallery

When you visit Burlington, check out The S.P.A.C.E. Gallery. It’s a cool place on Pine Street where you can see art being made and displayed. They change their shows every month, so there’s always something new to see.

Burlington is easy on your wallet, too. You can have a good day here with about $50 to $100. That’ll cover eating out, getting around, and visiting places like the gallery.

The S.P.A.C.E. Gallery is one of many great spots in Burlington. The city’s got a mix of city life and nature. Plus, the food here is fresh and tasty. Don’t miss out on other budget-friendly spots around town either.

#2. Shelburne Museum

Shelburne Museum in Burlington has lots to see, like art, old buildings, and even a steamboat. You can have a good day here for $50 to $100, covering the museum, meals, and getting around. It’s a fun way to learn about history.

Burlington has other cool spots too, like busy streets and a pretty lakefront. It’s a great place with lots to do without spending too much.

#3. Ethan Allen Homestead

Ethan Allen’s homestead in Burlington is an old house where Ethan Allen lived. It’s open from May to October. The homestead is near a river and shows you how life was long ago.

If you visit Burlington, including the homestead, you spend about $80 to $150 daily. This includes eating, getting around, and seeing places. Burlington has other neat spots too. There’s Church Street Marketplace for shopping and Waterfront Park for nature.

Burlington mixes old things like the homestead with fun modern places. It has history, shops, and parks, all at a good price.

#4. Day Trips to Stowe and Smugglers Notch

In Stowe, you can walk around a pretty town, shop, and eat good food. The Scenic Highway at Smugglers Notch has amazing mountain views. It’s a beautiful drive.

For this trip, plan to spend about $100 to $150 per person. This will cover food, activities like the gondola ride at Stowe Mountain, and driving around. It’s a good deal for a day full of nature and exploring.

While you’re there, try some local brews and relax in cozy cafes. These places are perfect after a day of sightseeing. Driving through Smugglers Notch is a must-see for its stunning views.

#5. Robert Hull Fleming Museum of Art

Going to the Fleming Museum of Art in Burlington is a great way to see art worldwide. It’s part of the University of Vermont and has many different kinds of art, like African sculptures and old stuff from Ancient Egypt.

Visiting this museum and other spots in Burlington can fit into a daily budget of about $50 to $100. This includes the museum, eating out, and checking out other places in the city. Burlington also has fun and affordable places like the Church Street Marketplace and Waterfront Park.

#6. The Hill and University of Vermont

The Hill and the University of Vermont in Burlington is a cool way to see old and beautiful buildings and learn about history. The university has been around since 1791 and has neat places like the Old Mill and Billings Library. There’s also an art museum and a theater on campus.

You can explore this area and other parts of Burlington for about $70 to $140 a day. This budget is good for food, transport, and visiting places like the art museum. Burlington is a great place to visit without spending a lot of money.

#7. Lake Champlain Islands

The Lake Champlain Islands in Vermont is an affordable and unique experience. These islands are known for their beautiful scenery and peaceful atmosphere.

Budget-wise, you can enjoy your time here without a lot of money. Many activities like biking, walking, and visiting local farms are inexpensive. This means you can have a fun experience without spending too much.

Regarding food, the islands are a paradise for food lovers. You can enjoy fresh produce from local farms and delicious meals at cafes and restaurants. Remember to try Vermont’s famous craft beer and cider.

South Hero is one of the top places to visit on the Lake Champlain islands. It’s known for its apple orchards and interesting roadside attractions, including dinosaur figures and miniature castles. For wine lovers, Snow Farm Vineyard & Winery is a great spot. If you like biking, the Lake Champlain Bikeway offers scenic routes.

The islands are generally safe, but being careful with your belongings in tourist areas is always good.

#8. Shelburne Farms

Shelburne Farms in Vermont might have different expectations, especially if you come from a busy city or a different country. Shelburne Farms offers a unique blend of natural beauty, educational experiences, and sustainability practices.

While you can find farms and natural landscapes in many parts of the world, the essence of a trip to Shelburne Farms lies in its local and educational experiences. From walking along scenic trails to learning about sustainable farming practices, the farm offers a unique blend of activities.

Budget-wise, a visit to Shelburne Farms is quite reasonable. Many of the farm’s attractions are donated, making it accessible for various budgets. The guided tours, such as the “Sun to Cheese Tours” and “House & Garden Tours,” are affordable at $20 and $15 per person, respectively.

Then there’s the farm’s produce and artisanal products. Shelburne Farms is renowned for its handmade cheddar cheese, crafted from the milk of their Brown Swiss cows.

Top Places to Consider Near Shelburne Farms:

• Shelburne Vineyard
• Fiddlehead Brewing Company
• Shelburne Bay Park
• Shelburne Orchards

#9. Flynn Center for the Performing Arts

The Flynn Center was established in 1930 and it has evolved into a renowned venue for a wide range of performances, from vaudeville to world-class music, theater, and dance.

While you can find performing arts centers in many places worldwide, the Flynn Center stands out for its historic charm, diverse program offerings, and commitment to arts education. It’s a hub for local and international artists, offering transformative experiences for audiences.

Sticking to a budget at the Flynn Center is manageable. Ticket prices vary, but deals and discounts are often available, making it accessible to those on a tighter budget. Additionally, the surrounding area of Burlington offers various affordable dining and leisure options.

Then there’s the local culture in Burlington. The city, known for its vibrant arts scene and picturesque settings, provides a backdrop that enhances the experience of visiting the Flynn Center.

#10. Switchback Brewing

Switchback brewery started in 2002 and it is known for its unique ale different from regular beers because it’s not filtered and has a special way of getting bubbly.

You can try different beers without spending too much. The place has a friendly vibe, with games to play and many happy people. Plus, it’s a place where dogs are welcome, adding to the fun atmosphere.

Burlington, where the brewery is located, is also a cool city with lots of things to see and do. There are art places, parks, and other breweries to check out.

#11. Burlington Farmers Market

Burlington Farmers Market in Vermont is like a local fair market, which is a must-visit. The farmers’ market is held every Saturday from late spring to fall.

The market is known for its friendly feel and is a favorite among locals and tourists. You can walk around, try foods like fresh pastries and coffee, and see various handmade items and fresh veggies.

The good thing about this market is that it’s easy on your wallet. You can enjoy looking around, tasting different foods, or even buying unique items without spending much money.

Then there’s the local charm. The market is a great way to feel like you’re part of the Burlington community, even if you’re just visiting.

If you have more time in Burlington, there are cafes, art places, and parks to visit nearby. Burlington is a pretty town with lots to see and do.

#12. North Beach Park

When you visit North Beach Park in Burlington, Vermont, you’ll find more than just a regular beach. It’s a beautiful spot on Lake Champlain where you can relax, play, and enjoy nature.

North Beach Park is special because it’s not just swimming, you can rent kayaks, hang out at the playground, or have a picnic. It’s perfect for families and anyone who loves being outdoors.

The good news is that visiting North Beach Park will be relatively inexpensive. Getting in is free, and parking is cheap in the summer. If you want to camp overnight, it costs about $37 a night. Plus, there’s a place to buy food and drinks at the beach.

#13. Foam Brewers

If you go to Foam Brewers in Burlington, Vermont, you’ll find a cool brewery near Lake Champlain, this place is where beer, art, music, and fun come together.

Foam Brewers is different from other breweries because it’s a place where people come to enjoy good times with friends, listen to music, and see some art. They make many different kinds of beer, so there’s something for everyone.

Going to Foam Brewers can fit into your budget. You can try different beers without spending a lot of money. It is also a great place to explore. You can walk by the lake, check out other breweries, or enjoy the city’s art and culture.

#14. Oakledge Park

The last place on our list is Oakledge Park in Burlington, Vermont. It’s a park by Lake Champlain that offers more than just pretty views.

At Oakledge Park, you can relax at two nice beaches, Blanchard Beach and the Cove. There are also places to have a picnic, a playground that’s fun for everyone, tennis courts, and even a cool treehouse that everyone can use.

If you go from May to October, parking costs $2 an hour. You can also rent picnic spots for parties. And the park has free Wi-Fi!

This park is near other cool stuff in Burlington. You can ride bikes on the Burlington Greenway path, try local beers at nearby breweries, or eat at tasty restaurants.

Final Thoughts on Things to Do in Burlington

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I hope this blog will be helpful for you. I have shared all the 14 my favorite places and things to do in Burlington. So, plan your visit, explore the city’s unique charm, and make lasting memories in this vibrant destination.

Personally I just loved the vibe of the Vermont during my visit in Vermont, I have explored as far as I could, and I just had a best vacation. That is why I made a list of my personal pick so you have a better experience too.

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