Best Time to Visit
The best time to visit Burlington, Vermont, is during the fall months of September to October when the foliage transforms the landscape into a vibrant tapestry of colors. The weather is crisp and cool, ideal for outdoor activities and exploring the local farms and markets. Additionally, the city hosts events like the Burlington Discover Jazz Festival in June and the South End Art Hop in September, showcasing the vibrant arts and culture scene.
Budget Guide
Burlington, Vermont, offers a range of options for every type of traveler. Budget travelers can expect to spend around $50-$100 per day, including hostel accommodations, affordable dining, and public transportation. Mid-range travelers can budget approximately $150-$250 daily, allowing for comfortable hotels, dining at local restaurants, and some activities such as bike rentals or museum visits. Luxury travelers will find a wealth of upscale hotels, fine dining, and exclusive experiences, typically spending $300 or more per day.
FAQ
Burlington is generally a safe city to explore. The best ways to get around include walking, biking, or using public transportation. The Green Mountain Transit offers reliable bus services. For more convenience, rideshare services like Uber and Lyft are also available.
Highlights
Scenic Lake Champlain**: Enjoy stunning views and recreational activities along Lake Champlain. Rent a kayak, take a scenic cruise, or relax at one of the lakeside parks.
Church Street Marketplace**: Experience Burlington's vibrant downtown at this pedestrian-only marketplace, filled with unique shops, local eateries, and frequent street performances that showcase the cityβs lively culture.
Burlington Farmers Market**: Visit the local farmers market held every Saturday from May to October. Sample fresh produce, artisanal goods, and delicious local food while supporting Vermont's farmers and artisans.
Burlington's Craft Beer Scene**: Discover the city's thriving craft beer culture with tours of local breweries. Donβt miss the chance to try signature brews at popular spots like Foam Brewers and Switchback Brewing.
The Shelburne Museum**: Just a short drive from downtown, this unique museum features a vast collection of American folk art and historical artifacts in a picturesque setting that includes multiple buildings and beautiful gardens.
Outdoor Adventures**: Embrace the great outdoors with hiking in the nearby Green Mountains or biking along the scenic Burlington Bike Path, which offers breathtaking views of the lake and surrounding landscapes.
Local Dining**: Savor Burlington's culinary scene, which emphasizes farm-to-table dining. Be sure to try local favorites like the famous cheeseburgers at the Farmhouse Tap & Grill or fresh sushi at Aikido.
Overview
Nestled on the shores of Lake Champlain, Burlington captivates travelers with its vibrant arts scene, eclectic dining options, and stunning natural beauty. Explore the charming Church Street Marketplace, indulge in local craft beers, and enjoy outdoor adventures in the surrounding Green Mountains. This unique blend of culture and recreation makes Burlington a must-visit destination for any traveler.
Travel Tips
Explore the Local Art Scene**: Take a stroll through the South End Arts District, where youβll find a collection of local galleries, studios, and the renowned Burlington City Arts Center. Many artists open their studios to the public during the First Friday Art Walkβcheck the schedule for the latest events.
Farmers' Market Delight**: Visit the Burlington Farmers' Market on Saturdays from May to October. Arrive early to snag fresh produce, artisanal goods, and unique local crafts. Donβt miss the chance to sample local specialties like goat cheese and craft beer. It's a great way to mingle with locals and taste the region's bounty.
Sunset at Oakledge Park**: For a stunning sunset view over Lake Champlain, head to Oakledge Park. This lesser-known spot provides plenty of picnic areas, walking trails, and a peaceful beachβperfect for unwinding away from the busier waterfront.
Brewery Biking**: Rent a bike and take the scenic path along the waterfront to explore Burlingtonβs craft breweries. Many offer tours and tastings, and biking between them is a fun way to enjoy the beautiful scenery while sampling local brews.
Hidden Eateries**: Seek out βThe Daily Planet,β a cozy spot known for its creative brunch and local ingredients, or βLβAmante,β a small Italian gem tucked away in a side street. These places are often overlooked by tourists but beloved by locals.
Seasonal Events**: Keep an eye on local calendars for seasonal events like the Burlington Discover Jazz Festival in June or the Vermont Brewers Festival in July. Participating in these events will give you a deeper appreciation for the local culture and community spirit.
Points of Interest
All Saints Episcopal Church
CHURCHBurlington Friends Meeting House
CHURCHChrist the King Church
CHURCHChurch of the Nazarene
CHURCHCommunity Lutheran Church
CHURCHFaith United Methodist Church
CHURCHSt. Joseph's Cathedral
CHURCHFrench Baptist Church
CHURCHHearts of Fire Ministries
CHURCHOld Ohavi Zedex Synagogue
CHURCHSynagogue Ahavath Gerim
CHURCHUnity Church of Vermont
CHURCHWinooski Falls Mill District
PARKCourthouse Plaza
PARKMaranatha Christian Church
CHURCHSage's Point
VIEWPOINTPascolo Ristorante
RESTAURANTCuisine: italian. Hours: Su-Th 16:00-21:00; Fr,Sa 16:00-22:00
Red Square
NIGHTLIFEHours: Th 18:00-02:00; Fr 15:00-02:00; Sa 14:00-02:00
Honey Road
RESTAURANTCuisine: mediterranean. Hours: Su-Th 16:00-21:00; Fr-Sa 16:00-22:00
Halvorson's
RESTAURANTCuisine: american
Three Needs
NIGHTLIFEHours: Mo-Su 00:00-02:00, Mo-Su 16:00-24:00
Finnigan's Pub
NIGHTLIFEHours: Mo-Su 16:00-02:00
Laliguras
RESTAURANTCuisine: indian. Hours: Mo,We-Su 12:00-22:00; Tu off
Drink
NIGHTLIFEAkes' Place
NIGHTLIFEHours: Tu-Sa 16:00-24:00, We-Sa 00:00-02:00
Blossom Whole Food Kitchen and Catering
RESTAURANTCuisine: regional. Hours: Mo-Fr 08:00-18:00
Asian Bistro
RESTAURANTCuisine: asian. Hours: Mo,We-Th 11:15-21:45; Fr-Sa 11:15-22:15; Su 12:00-21:30
Our House Bistro
RESTAURANTCuisine: american;macaroni_and_cheese. Hours: Mo-Tu 17:00-20:00; We-Su 12:00-20:00
Hop Sing Chinese Rest.
RESTAURANTCuisine: chinese
Martone's Market
RESTAURANTCuisine: sandwich
El Gato Cantina
RESTAURANTCuisine: mexican
Ninety Nine Restaurant & Pub
RESTAURANTCuisine: burger. Hours: Mo-We 11:00-21:30; Th-Sa 11:00-22:00; Su 11:00-21:00
Subway
RESTAURANTCuisine: sandwich
C Nature area
VIEWPOINTMango
RESTAURANTCuisine: thai
Hornet's Nest
NIGHTLIFEGrand Buffet
RESTAURANTCuisine: asian
Upper Crust
RESTAURANTCuisine: pizza
Ramunto's
RESTAURANTCuisine: pizza
Leonardo's Pizza
RESTAURANTCuisine: pizza
Chicken Charlie's
RESTAURANTCuisine: chicken
The Bagel Place
RESTAURANTCuisine: bagel. Hours: Mo-Fr 06:00-14:00; Sa 06:00-15:00; Su 07:00-15:00
JP's Pub
NIGHTLIFEWhat Ales You
NIGHTLIFETrattoria Delia
RESTAURANTCuisine: italian
The Whiskey Room
NIGHTLIFEHours: Su-Th 05:00-24:00; Fr,Sa 05:00-01:00
Fu Da
RESTAURANTCuisine: chinese. Hours: Mo,Tu,Th-Sa 11:30-22:00; Su 12:00-22:00
Mule Bar
NIGHTLIFEHours: Su-Th 11:30-23:00; Fr-Sa 11:30-24:00