A Travel Guide to Burlington
Nestled on the shores of Lake Champlain between the Adirondack and Green Mountains, Burlington, Vermont, is a vibrant, walkable city that blends New England charm with a progressive, artsy vibe. As Vermont’s largest city (population ~45,000), it’s a college town with a lively cultural scene, farm-to-table dining, and endless outdoor activities. Whether you’re drawn to scenic lake views, craft breweries, or the iconic Church Street Marketplace, this guide will help you plan a memorable trip to Burlington.
Why Visit Burlington?
Burlington offers a perfect mix of urban energy and natural beauty. Its pedestrian-friendly downtown, anchored by the car-free Church Street Marketplace, buzzes with local shops, street performers, and restaurants. The city’s proximity to Lake Champlain provides opportunities for kayaking, biking, and sunset cruises, while its cultural offerings—festivals, live music, and museums—cater to diverse interests. Burlington’s commitment to sustainability (it was the first U.S. city to run entirely on renewable energy) and its farm-to-table food scene make it a haven for eco-conscious travelers and foodies alike.
How to Get There
Burlington is accessible by air, rail, bus, or car, with Patrick Leahy Burlington International Airport (BTV) as the main gateway.
By Air: Burlington International Airport (BTV) offers direct flights from major U.S. cities like New York, Chicago, and Atlanta via airlines such as Delta, United, and American Airlines. The airport is just 10 minutes from downtown, with taxis or ride-hailing (Uber/Didi) costing ~$15–20. Nearby airports include Plattsburgh International (PBG) (1-hour drive) and Montreal-Trudeau (YUL) (2-hour drive).
By Train: Amtrak’s Ethan Allen Express connects Burlington’s Union Station to New York City (Penn Station) in ~7.5 hours. Tickets cost $50–100 one way. The station is downtown, making it convenient for visitors.
By Bus: Greyhound and Megabus offer services from Boston (~3.5 hours, $20–40) and Montreal (~2 hours, $15–30). The Greyhound terminal is at BTV, with a downtown stop at “Burlingt Transit Ctr.” Megabus stops near the University of Vermont (UVM).
By Car: Burlington is a 3.5-hour drive from Boston, 6 hours from New York City, and 1.5–2 hours from Montreal via Interstate 89 or U.S. Route 7. Parking is available downtown ($1–2/hour) or at hotels.
Tip: Burlington is car-optional once you arrive. The compact downtown and free Green Mountain Transit buses make walking or biking ideal.
Best Time to Visit
Spring (March–May): Mild weather (40–60°F) and blooming flowers make it great for hiking and festivals like the Vermont Maple Festival. Fewer crowds and lower hotel rates. Summer (June–August): Warm (70–85°F) and vibrant, with lake activities, farmers’ markets, and the Burlington Discover Jazz Festival. Book accommodations early as prices peak ($200–300/night).
Fall (September–November): Stunning foliage draws leaf peepers, especially in October. Expect vibrant reds and golds along the Burlington Bike Path and higher hotel rates (~$250/night). Book early. Winter (December–February): Cold (10–30°F) but budget-friendly, with ice skating at Paquette Arena and skiing at nearby resorts like Stowe (45-minute drive). Hotel rates drop to $100–150/night.
Weather Tip: Pack layers, as temperatures vary widely. A rain jacket is handy year-round due to occasional showers.
Top Attractions
Explore Church Street Marketplace: Wander along the pedestrian-only Church Street Marketplace, lined with shops, boutiques, galleries, cafes, and restaurants. It’s a hub of activity and a great place for people-watching.
Visit the ECHO Leahy Center for Lake Champlain: Discover the natural history and ecology of Lake Champlain through interactive exhibits, live animal encounters, and educational programs.
Enjoy Waterfront Activities: Rent a bike or kayak along the Burlington Bike Path or take a scenic cruise on Lake Champlain for stunning views of the Adirondack Mountains.
Discover Local Breweries: Burlington is known for its craft beer scene. Visit local breweries like Magic Hat Brewing Company, Switchback Brewing Company, and Foam Brewers for tastings and tours.
Take a Day Trip to Shelburne Farms: Just outside Burlington, Shelburne Farms offers a historic estate with walking trails, farm animals, a cheese-making facility, and breathtaking views of the lake.
Attend Cultural Events: Check out the events calendar for live music performances, art shows, festivals, and theater productions happening in and around Burlington.
Where to Eat
Burlington’s farm-to-table scene is a highlight, with local ingredients shining in cozy cafes and upscale restaurants:
The Skinny Pancake (Waterfront): Dog-friendly spot for crepes and maple creemees ($8–15). Foam Brewers (Waterfront): Craft beers (from $5.50) with tropical IPAs and local cheese boards. Live music adds to the vibe. Citizen Cider (South End): Try cider flights and pub fare in a dog-friendly setting ($10–20).
Hen of the Wood: James Beard-nominated for small plates using Vermont produce ($20–40). Reservations recommended. Ben & Jerry’s Scoop Shop (Church Street): Iconic ice cream with flavors like Cherry Garcia ($5–8).
Tip: Visit City Market Onion River Co-op for picnic supplies or local cheeses and maple syrup to take home.
Where to Stay
Hotel Vermont (Downtown): Modern, eco-friendly hotel with lake views and free bike rentals. Rates start at ~$200–350/night. Hilton Burlington Lake Champlain (Waterfront): Recently renovated with stunning views, ~$250/night. Willard Street Inn: Charming B&B with a cozy vibe, ~$150–250/night. Not all rooms have lake views.
Airbnb/Vacation Rentals: Options range from lakeside homes to downtown apartments ($100–200/night). Book early for lake views. Budget Options: Stay near the airport or UVM for motels like Comfort Inn South Burlington (~$100–150/night).
Tip: Book at least 2–3 months in advance for fall foliage season or summer festivals to secure deals.
Tips for a Great Visit
Walk or Bike: Downtown and the waterfront are best explored on foot or by bike. Use Green Mountain Transit for free rides to nearby areas. Pack Layers: Weather can change quickly, especially near the lake. Bring a jacket for cool evenings, even in summer.
Plan for Crowds: Summer and fall are peak seasons; arrive early for popular spots like the bike path or ECHO Center. Eco-Friendly Travel: Respect Burlington’s green ethos—use reusable water bottles and avoid single-use plastics.
Extend Your Trip: Combine your visit with nearby Stowe (45 minutes) for hiking and cider mills or Shelburne Farms (15 minutes) for lakefront walks and farm tours.
Final Thoughts
Burlington, Vermont, is a gem of New England, offering a blend of outdoor adventure, cultural richness, and culinary delights. From the lively Church Street Marketplace to the serene shores of Lake Champlain, the city invites you to explore its unique charm. Whether you’re sipping craft cider, biking along the lake, or catching a jazz festival, Burlington promises a trip filled with memorable moments. Plan ahead, embrace the seasons, and enjoy this vibrant, sustainable city.
Happy travels!
