Burlington is Vermont’s largest city, known for its gorgeous waterfront–Lake Champlain, shopping and dining along cobblestone streets at Church Street Marketplace and a range of diversity and culture in foods, music and more. This city captures Vermont’s beauty and authenticity among the Green Mountains, while also providing the fun and energy of a small city. Explore cute boutique shops, picturesque hiking trails, and so much more. There are so many different things to do and explore in Burlington. Today we are sharing a round-up of top attractions that you can do if you’re in the city of Burlington, Vermont.
15 Things to Do in Burlington, VT
Fun Things to Do in Burlington, VT
Church Street Marketplace
Downtown Burlington is a lively, beautiful place to visit. Church Street is a cobblestone street with a plethora of shops and restaurants. During the warmer months there are outdoor markets and live music. Whether you are looking to window shop, people watch or pick up some souvenirs, Church Street is the place to be!
Burlington Farmers Market
Burlington Farmers Market is one of the best Farmers Markets in the state! This market runs from May through October every Saturday from 9am-2pm. This is the prime place to indulge in specialty foods, farm fresh produce and artisan crafts.
Flynn Center
This 1930s art deco theater is a mecca for live performances–music, comedy, readings and more. See what’s on at The Flynn Center while your in town. If you’re looking for great comedy check out the Vermont Comedy Club.
Higher Ground
Higher Ground is the place to be for live music in Burlington! It’s open to all ages and hosts both national and local bands. They also host outdoor events on the waterfront during the summer. Head to their website to see the lineup of music for the season.
Family Things To Do In Burlington VT
ECHO Leahy Center for Lake Champlain
The ECHO, Leahy Center for Lake Champlain is a family-friendly science and nature museum on the Burlington waterfront. The museum has a variety of animals native to Lake Champlain including fish, snakes, turtles and frogs. Exhibits designed for all ages, a 3D Theater, and some fun ecology programs. ECHO is open 10am-5pm daily.
Ethan Allen Homestead Museum
The Ethan Allen Homestead Museum is the historic former home of Ethan Allen, leader of the Green Mountain Boys and capturer of Fort Ticonderoga in the Revolutionary War. The spirit of Ethan Allen lives on through this homage to his life.
Ben & Jerrys
What family doesn’t love ice cream?! Head to Ben & Jerry’s for a cone on Church Street or venture to Waterbury to the original Ben & Jerry’s Factory for tours. Open 10am-6pm daily.
Vermont Teddy Bear Factory
The Vermont Teddy Bear Factory in Shelburne is a fun place to visit with the family and make your own bear to take home. Take a tour and learn about the factory and bear making process and then have your hand at making your own. Open 10am-4pm daily.
Unique Things to Do in Burlington VT
Monuments and Sculptures
Pay a visit to some of Burlington’s most unique monuments, sculptures and landmarks. Burlington Earth Clock is a sundial in Oakledge Park that overlooks the waterfront. This sundial only works with a human’s shadow to help tell time. The ‘Reverence’ Whales Tales are a classic symbol of entry into the city of Burlington along I-89. Be sure to snap a pic as you pass! Did you know Burlington holds the tallest filing cabinet on Earth? That’s right! See it for yourself!
Shelburne, VT
Take a detour out of Burlington to nearby, Shelburne, Vermont. Shelburne is a beautiful, picturesque town in Chittenden County along the shores of Lake Champlain. It is known for the historic Shelburne Museum specializing in art, design and Americana with over 150,000 works on display. Shelburne Farms is a working farm and place for deep learning and connection to the land.
Burled Forest
Burled Forest is a small forest on Burlington’s waterfront caused by aggressive southwestern winds. It’s called Burled Forest because of the “burls” or growths on the trees that give it a spooky, Dr. Seuss sort of vibe. Check out this magical forest for yourself!
Free Things to Do in Burlington, VT
Burlington Greenway
The Burlington Greenway is a biking and walking path that weaves along the Burlington waterfront to the Champlain Islands. You can even take the ferry and continue your journey through the islands. There are parks, beaches and even restaurants to stop at along the way. For excellent walking trails and a Burlington bike path head to Burlington Greenway.
Oakledge Park
Oakledge Park, is a waterfront park on the south end of the city along the shores of Lake Champlain. Relax on Blanchard Beach and the Cove, explore the accessible treehouse, walking trails, the Earth Clock and picnic and take cover under pavilions, play volleyball, rent paddleboards and play bocce on the courts.
Romantic Things To Do In Burlington VT
Sunset Cruise on Lake Champlain
Hop aboard the Spirit of the Ethan Allen for a dreamy sunset cruise on Lake Champlain. Enjoy this 2.5 hour cruise with freshly made cocktails and order a la carte from the Ethan Allen Cafe.
Dinner on Church Street
Enjoy a romantic dinner with your love on the beautiful cobblestone streets of Church Street. Choose from the diverse range of restaurants in Burlington. Some of our favorites include Honey Road, Hen of the Wood, Bistro De Margo and Istanbul Kebab House.
Whether you are looking for a romantic getaway, family-friendly adventure, fun with friends or something different, Burlington has so much to offer. You can’t go wrong with a trip to Burlington, Vermont!
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