5 Best Things to Do in Burlington, Vermont
If you’ve only got one day or two to spend in this hip Vermont city, you’ll want to make it count. Here are five of the very best things to do in Burlington, Vermont.
Strolling Church Street is one of our picks for the best things to do in Burlington, Vermont.
Photo Credit : vermontalm/iStockLocated on the widest portion of Lake Champlain with views of the Adirondack Mountains, this vibrant, outdoor-centric town packs big-city perks with big-country access. Planning a Burlington day-trip or quick getaway and want to be sure you’ve seen, done, and eaten the essentials? Here are five of the best things to do in Burlington, Vermont.
5 Best Things to Do in Burlington, Vermont
Island Line Trail
With its lake vistas, ice cream shops, sculptures, and swimming spots, this 14-mile path is a bikers’ paradise. It includes about four miles along Burlington’s bustling waterfront, while a bridge over the Winooski River at the north end connects to the Colchester Causeway, which extends out into Lake Champlain. From there, a seasonal bike ferry lets riders continue on to the island of South Hero. Time your ride to catch the stunning sunset over the Adirondacks.
Church Street Marketplace
At this open-air mall in the heart of downtown Burlington, more than 100 shops and eateries — including Danforth Pewter, The Vermont Flannel Company, Frog Hollow Craft Gallery, and Lake Champlain Chocolates — fill a four-block stretch. Browse, stroll, eat, and take advantage of the free public Wi-Fi to update your Instagram feed with the highlights.
Burlington Farmers’ Market
In a state that appreciates the “go local” movement more than just about any other, this legendary farmers’ market is not to be missed. Every Saturday from late spring through autumn, 90-plus vendors set up on Pine Street with seasonal produce, flowers, prepared foods, and more. You won’t leave disappointed (or hungry).
Al’s French Fry
It’s a wonder any fast-food chains ever came to Burlington since Al’s got there first. Since the 1940s this beloved institution has done its best to make clear why potatoes were put on this earth — and has served up more than a few burgers, hot dogs, and maple creemees in the bargain.
Sip Local Brews and Ciders
It’s almost impossible to spend time in Burlington and not become a craft beer convert. Located in a historic brick building just steps from Waterfront Park and the bike trail, Foam Brewers offers a satisfying collection of seasonally rotating brews along with local cheeses, meats, and breads. Nearby, Zero Gravity provides a terrific beer-centric experience at its tasting room and beer garden, where classic styles like Belgian tripel, Czech pilsner, and India pale ale join creative seasonal brews. Prefer hard cider? The Citizen Cider tasting room serves up crisp varieties made from local apples, from the traditional Unified Press to the ultra-dry Wit’s Up, plus seasonal varietals and a rosé line.
Have your own list of the very best things to do in Burlington, Vermont? Leave your picks in the comments below!
