10 Best Things to Do in Burlington, Vermont

Burlington, Vermont is one of those small cities that feels effortlessly charming. With its lively downtown, incredible lake views, and plenty of cozy spots to eat and drink, it’s the perfect place for a weekend getaway.

From the lively Church Street Marketplace to scenic bike trails and nearby day trips, there’s plenty to see and do at a relaxed pace. Whether you’re here for the fall foliage, summer lake life, or a quick stop on a Vermont road trip, Burlington is worth a spot on your itinerary.

In this guide, you’ll find the best things to do in Burlington, Vermont, plus tips on where to stay and eat to make the most of your visit.

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Best Things to Do in Burlington, Vermont

1. Stroll along Church Street

Lined with colorful storefronts, patio cafés, and plenty of local energy, Church Street Marketplace is Burlington’s lively downtown hub.

This pedestrian-only street is the place to shop for Vermont-made goods, grab a maple latte, or just sit back and watch the world go by.

You’ll often see musicians, street performers, and farmers’ market stalls (depending on the season), which make every visit feel a little different.

At the north end, the Unitarian Church adds a picture-perfect backdrop for photos of this charming street.

2. Stop for ice cream

A visit to Burlington isn’t complete without a sweet treat, and you’ve got two iconic options to choose from.

Head to Ben & Jerry’s downtown scoop shop for a classic cone (yes, the company started right here in Burlington!) or track down a maple creemee from a local stand for a true Vermont favorite.

If you’re visiting in warmer months, this is the perfect excuse to take your ice cream for a walk along Church Street or down to the waterfront.

3. Walk or bike the Burlington Greenway

For some of the best lake views in Burlington, hit the Burlington Greenway (also called the Island Line Trail). This paved path runs for 8 miles along Lake Champlain, making it perfect for a morning walk or a bike ride.

You don’t have to do the whole thing – just strolling a short section near Waterfront Park gives you great scenery and plenty of spots to sit and take it all in.

If you’re feeling more adventurous, rent a bike from Local Motion and ride out to the Colchester Causeway, where the trail stretches over the water with sweeping views on both sides.

4. Watch the sunset at Waterfront Park

Waterfront Park is one of the best spots in Burlington to slow down and take in the views.

This open green space sits right on the edge of Lake Champlain and is the perfect place for an evening stroll, a picnic, or just sitting on a bench to watch the boats go by.

As the sun sets, the sky often lights up in shades of pink and orange over the Adirondack Mountains across the water – it’s pure Vermont magic! If you’re visiting in summer, you might even catch a festival or live music here.

5. Browse the Burlington Farmers Market

If you’re in town on a Saturday, the Burlington Farmers Market is the place to be!

Held downtown from late spring through fall, it’s packed with stalls selling fresh produce, flowers, baked goods, maple syrup, cheeses, and handmade crafts.

It’s not just for grocery shopping either – you’ll find food trucks, coffee stands, and local treats like cider donuts and pastries perfect for a quick breakfast or snack.

The market has a fun community vibe with live music and plenty of locals mingling with visitors. Try to arrive earlier in the morning if you want to avoid the biggest crowds and have first pick of the goodies.

6. Explore the ECHO Leahy Center for Lake Champlain

The ECHO Leahy Center is one of the most family-friendly things to do in Burlington, especially on a rainy day.

This science and nature museum sits right on the waterfront and features interactive exhibits about Lake Champlain’s ecology, local wildlife, and regional history.

You’ll find aquariums filled with native fish and turtles, hands-on displays, and plenty to keep kids (and adults) entertained.

It’s also right next to Waterfront Park, so it’s easy to pair the two for a relaxing afternoon by the lake.

7. Go brewery hopping

With more than a dozen breweries in and around Burlington, it’s easy to spend an afternoon sampling craft beers.

Foam Brewers is a local favorite for hazy IPAs and waterfront views, while Zero Gravity offers a laid-back vibe and an ever-changing tap list.

Want someone else to handle the planning? The Burlington Signature Guided Brewery Tour visits some of the city’s top spots and includes plenty of pours along the way.

8. Take a Lake Champlain cruise

Seeing Burlington from the water is hard to beat, and a cruise on Lake Champlain is one of the best things to do in Burlington, Vermont. The most popular option is the Spirit of Ethan Allen, which offers everything from casual sightseeing cruises to sunset dinners with mountain views in the background.

If you’re visiting in the warmer months, it’s an easy way to relax and enjoy the scenery without any effort. For something smaller and more personal, you can also look into local sailing charters that leave right from the Burlington waterfront.

9. Visit Shelburne Museum

Just a 15-minute drive from downtown Burlington, the Shelburne Museum is one of the most interesting museums in Vermont.

It’s nothing like a typical indoor gallery! Spread across 45 acres, the museum features historic buildings, gardens, and even a full-sized steamboat you can tour.

You’ll find everything from American folk art to vintage carriages and a covered bridge tucked into the grounds.

Plan for at least a couple of hours to wander, especially if you’re visiting in spring or fall when the outdoor spaces are at their best.

10. Take a day trip to Stowe

Less than an hour from Burlington, Stowe is one of the most charming towns in Vermont, especially in the fall! If you have some extra time on your hands, plan to spend at least a day here.

Wandering the charming Main Street, stopping for photos at Gold Brook Covered Bridge, or taking a scenic drive through Smugglers’ Notch Pass are just some examples of all the best things to do in Stowe.

While it works great as a day trip from Burlington, if you’re planning a longer New England road trip, I’d recommend spending some more time in Stowe. For more inspiration, check out my guide on how to spend 3 days in Stowe, Vermont!

Where to Stay in Burlington, Vermont

Burlington has a great mix of places to stay, from boutique hotels downtown to retro motels with fun extras. Staying near Church Street or the waterfront makes it easy to explore on foot, with restaurants, shops, and lake views just steps away.

Fall is especially busy in Burlington, so if you’re visiting for foliage season, it’s worth booking your hotel well in advance!

Here are some great places to consider:

• Hotel Vermont Burlington – Modern boutique hotel with a cozy vibe just steps from the waterfront
• Hilton Garden Inn Burlington Downtown – Central location with comfortable rooms and easy access to Church Street
• Green Mountain Suites Hotel – Affordable suites with kitchenettes, perfect for longer stays
• Holiday Inn Express South Burlington by IHG – Reliable, budget-friendly option a short drive from downtown
• Starlight Inn – Fun, budget-friendly motel with casino or movie-themed rooms

Where to Eat in Burlington

Burlington’s food scene punches way above its size, with everything from farm-to-table dining to casual spots perfect for a quick bite between exploring. Here are a few local favorites to check out:

• Hen of the Wood – One of the best places in town for seasonal Vermont cuisine, with a cozy, upscale atmosphere
• The Farmhouse Tap & Grill – Farm-to-table burgers, salads, and an excellent craft beer list in a casual setting
• American Flatbread Burlington Hearth – Wood-fired pizzas with fresh, local toppings and a relaxed vibe
• August First – A cozy café and bakery known for its homemade breads, hearty breakfast sandwiches, and great coffee
• Foam Brewers – Great craft beer and small plates with lakefront views (perfect for a sunset stop)