26 Fun and Best Things to Do in Burlington, Vermont

Burlington, Vermont is located on Lake Champlain’s eastern shore. It thrives off tourism.

This is not to suggest that there aren’t great communities, vibrant cultures, beautiful natural settings, or a strong sense of community.

Burlington, surrounded by beautiful Green Mountain Range, is not too far from Canada’s south border. Burlington has a lot of energy and vibrance.

Burlington is a great place to visit if you are looking for things to do.

There are many cultural attractions in the city, including art museums, historical landmarks, bustling markets, and lots of entertainment.

The city surrounds itself with stunning natural environments such as lakesside beaches, state parks, resorts on the mountain, and miles of biking/walking trails.

The city also has tons of eateries and shops, all with their own unique local flavor.

If you are looking for an authentic Vermont experience, there is plenty to do in The Queen City.

Here are some outstanding suggestions.

Things to Do in Burlington (VT)

1. Church Street Market

Church Street Marketplace, Burlington, Vermont, has something for everyone, day and night.

Church Street Marketplace, one of Burlington’s top attractions is an iconic pedestrian mall.

The marketplace, which is located between Main Street and Pearl Streets, has four blocks of historic buildings surrounding it. It was designated a National Historic Register site.

It’s a great day spent at Church Street Marketplace.

There are many shops, boutiques, museums, spas, and merchant vendors in the marketplace.

The marketplace also hosts a variety of delicious eateries, including burger joint, sweet shop, and fine dining.

You’ll also find a vibrant nightlife and walking tours as well as a few local breweries.

Church Street Marketplace has something for everyone, whether you are looking for things for your family or romantic activities for the couple.

Address: 131 Church St, Burlington, VT 05401, United States

2. Lake Champlain

Burlington’s east shoreline is bordered with Lake Champlain, a majestic lake.

Lake Champlain, one of America’s top tourist spots is the ideal spot for pleasure boating.

Lake Champlain is an attraction you must see, whether you’re visiting Burlington this weekend or today.

Lake Champlain, Vermont’s summer paradise is home to both public and private beaches.

It’s the perfect destination for swimming, sunbathing and beach sports.

Lake Champlain offers many opportunities to paddleboard and do other water sports.

When you visit the lake, there are many amenities available, including a waterfront park and beautiful natural surroundings.

The lake surrounds campgrounds, making it easy to stay for a longer time.

Lake Champlain is a great place to start if you are looking for nature-related activities.

Address: Burlington, VT, United States

3. ECHO, Leahy Center for Lake Champlain

There are many fun things you can do in Burlington, and ECHO is a great place to start.

The center, which is open-air and hands-on, makes a great destination for children or science lovers.

Through interactive exhibits, lessons, and demonstrations on scientific discovery, the wonder of nature and caring for Lake Champlain, this center shares its passion for science with the public.

Leahy Center for Lake Champlain is a museum that offers many activities. There are two floors indoors and outdoor displays, as well as lake shows.

Dinosaur Discoveries and Frog World are some of the most popular centers exhibits. They also have an animal care section, engineering laboratory, and a display about animals.

The center also offers many amenities, including all-gender restrooms, picnic areas, cafes and water fountains.

It’s easy to see why locals love ECHO, Leahy Center For Lake Champlain. There is so much science under one roof.

Burlington Address: 1 College St. Burlington, VT 05401. United States

4. Fleming Museum of Art

This art and anthropology museum, nestled in the fabric of University of Vermont is located in Burlington.

The museum boasts a collection of nearly 30,000 artifacts, making it the largest and most varied collection in VT.

The Fleming Museum of Art has amazing rotating and permanent exhibits that will leave you awestruck.

This place offers a unique opportunity to discover about art and history. It is worth adding to your travel itinerary.

The museum was established in 1931 and has served as a center for internationally renowned artists ever since.

You can expect to see works by artists such as Rembrandt and Picasso. The Fleming Museum of Art offers a unique cultural experience, featuring both historical and contemporary art.

Fleming Museum of Art can be enjoyed by everyone, regardless of whether you consider yourself to be an artist savant.

Address: 61 Colchester Ave, Burlington, VT 05405, United States

5. ArtsRiot

ArtsRiot, a popular arts venue located in downtown Burlington is available to all.

ArtsRiot is a showcase for performing, visual, and culinary arts.

ArtsRiot, Burlington’s most popular tourist attraction, is a place to feed your soul and thirst for uniqueness.

ArtsRiot is a multifaceted venue that offers live music, incredible artwork and tasty food.

ArtsRiot was established in 2012. It is located in Burlington’s South End.

ArtsRiot has a restaurant that serves delicious meals for breakfast, lunch and dinner. There are also bars at ArtsRiot serving creative spirits.

ArtsRiot, a place where people gather to enjoy food and culture is something you should see.

Address: 400 Pine St, Burlington, VT 05401, United States

6. Burlington Bike Path

Burlington Bike Path is a great place to find free activities during your stay in Burlington.

Burlington Bike Trail is one of the many outdoor adventures you can enjoy while visiting Vermont. It runs for 7.6 miles around Lake Champlain, Connects Park and features many other wonderful activities.

It can also be used as a multi-purpose bike path.

People who have walked the path are known for their ability to walk, run, jump, ski, and do other activities.

The path runs from the South End Burlington to the North End Winooski River. It offers many stunning sights.

Burlington Bike Path is an extremely popular attraction throughout the four seasons. However, it’s also a great place to go any time of year.

You will see some amazing sights along the way, including Oakledge Park and Winooski Rivers, as well as parts of Green Mountains and Lake Champlain.

It doesn’t matter if you are visiting Vermont this weekend or today, the bike path is worth a visit any time.

Address: Burlington, VT, United States

7. Ben & Jerry’s Ice Cream

Ben & Jerry’s Ice Cream is a great place to start when you’re looking for things to do in Vermont.

The ice cream company is now a national icon, but it was founded in Burlington Vermont.

Ben & Jerry’s Ice Cream, a Vermont staple that is known for its unique and delicious flavors as well as its creative names, should be a must-see when you’re in the area.

You can visit an ice cream factory, as well as the local shops, to get a scoop.

Everyday factory tours give visitors a glimpse into the workings of this famous creamery.

You can also enjoy the tour of the factory and shop in the quirky souvenir shop. Enjoy this Americana!

Ben & Jerry’s Ice Cream is a great place to go if you’re searching for something unique to do in Vermont.

Address: 36 Church St, Burlington, VT 05401, United States

8. Vermont Comedy Club

Vermont Comedy Club, one of the coolest things about Burlington is an excellent place to let off steam and have a fun evening full of infectious laughter.

Vermont Comedy Club has a great place to visit in Burlington. It boasts a community base that includes local comedians.

There are many comedians to choose from, so there is always something new and interesting to watch.

Vermont Comedy Club offers one of the most entertaining shows in town. They also have a cafe, “Happy Place”, that provides delicious bites throughout the night.

While you watch the show, enjoy tasty snacks, sweets and coffeehouse-style drinks.

Vermont Comedy Club also offers comedy classes for kids and adults, as well as improv and sketch classes. This makes it a great experience for friends and family.

Vermont Comedy Club is the place to be if you want to have a lot of fun and laugh a lot.

Address: 101 Main St, Burlington, VT 05401, United States

9. North Beach Park

Spending warm summer days at the beach is more enjoyable than anything.

Vermont, although it is best known for its snow sports scene and beautiful white beaches.

North Beach Park is a great place to stop if you are visiting VT in the summer.

It is Burlington’s most popular beach. The large landscape allows for easy spreading out with family and friends.

Notable: North Beach Park, VT’s only beach that is lifeguarded, is also noteworthy.

The beach, which is nestled along Lake Champlain’s sparkling water, offers a great place to unwind, enjoy beach sports and swim.

North Beach offers many wonderful facilities to make your stay even more enjoyable.

There are also restrooms and picnic tables. You can access a nine-mile bicycle path. Also, you can rent standup paddleboards and kayaks.

North Beach Park in Vermont is the perfect beach for a warm summer day.

Address: Burlington, VT 05401, United States

10. Mount Philo State Park

Mount Philo State Park covers almost 240 acres and offers spectacular views of Lake Champlain, Green Mountains, Adirondack Mountains.

Mount Philo State Park offers breathtaking views and plenty of outdoor adventure opportunities. It is one of the most popular free activities near Burlington.

Hiking the beautiful nature trails, which vary in difficulty between easy and moderate, is one of the most enjoyable ways to experience the park.

You can also enjoy other top-rated activities at the park, such as swimming and wildlife observation.

Mount Philo State Park also has a limited area for camping.

You will find plenty of amenities in the park, including picnic pavilions and public grills. There are also bathrooms.

The best part is that Mount Philo State Park allows dogs.

Address: 5425 Mt Philo Rd, Charlotte, VT 05445, United States

11. There are three things you need

Three Needs Bar is one of Burlington’s most popular places for adults to meet.

The owner founded the restaurant in 1995 with the vision of creating a relaxed atmosphere that makes everyone feel welcome.

Three Needs is, in essence, a place where you can relax with your friends, enjoy delicious microbrews from local breweries, eat tasty food and play some games.

Three Needs, which is open seven days per week, is one of Burlington’s best attractions after hours.

There are many pool tables and foosball in the pub. The bar is surrounded with a fun, lively atmosphere.

Three Needs is also a popular place for pizza. The pub offers a variety of boardwalk-style pizzas, and the “Pizza Cube”, a great addition to their menu.

The pub has an outdoor patio that is perfect for enjoying milder weather.

Three Needs, one of the most popular places in town is worth a visit.

Address: 185 Pearl St, Burlington, VT 05401, United States

12. Bolton Valley Resort

Bolton Valley Resort, located high up in the Green Mountains is one of Burlington’s top attractions.

The resort offers a variety of winter sports and summer activities, including snow biking.

Bolton Valley Resort is a ski-in, slopeside hotel that puts you near all of the excitement the mountain offers.

The resort offers a memorable stay whether you are traveling solo or with your friends.

The resort also offers rentals, lessons and childcare during winter.

Other winter activities include backcountry skiing, Nordic skiing and snowshoeing.

Bolton Valley Resort offers year-round outdoor swimming, saunas, mountain biking and disc golf.

You can enjoy all these incredible activities right from your doorstep when you stay at this resort.

The address is 4302 Bolton Access Rd Richmond, VT 05477. United States

13. Shelburne Museum

The Vermont art and design museum is located near Burlington. It preserves Americana values, relics and promotes innovation.

The museum is located on almost 50 acres surrounding Lake Champlain and includes nearly 40 exhibit buildings.

There are more than 150,000 items in the Shelburne Museum collection. It is one of Burlington’s most popular tourist attractions.

Shelburne Museum, a museum that is suitable for all ages and visitors, might be the place for you.

The Shelburne Museum has a world-class collection that includes works from art covering everything from French Impressionism to Modern American.

The diverse collection also includes media such as pottery, textiles and decoys.

The museum also has a wide range of works, including decorative arts and a collection from a circus.

The buildings where the collections are kept are beautiful landscaped, and are representative of New England’s historic architecture.

Shelburne museum is a great place to start when you are looking for things to do in Burlington.

Address: 6000 Shelburne Rd, Shelburne, VT 05482, United States

14. Switchback Brewing Company

You can enjoy local ales unfiltered at this amazing microbrewery in Burlington.

Switchback Brewing Company was founded in 2002. It focuses on making “unexpected, relatable and great-tasting beers.”

You could not ask for more from a brew.

The unfiltered fermentation process is what makes Switchback’s beer truly special. It produces a unique, delicately flavourful beer with a distinctive taste.

Switchback Brewing Company offers 20 different beers year round.

The brewery offers weekly tours that allow you to see the unique processes of Switchback Brewing.

You can also enjoy a cold Switchback beer at the Tap Room, which is open 7 days a week.

Switchback Brewing Company offers daily specials and occasional special events. It is just one of the many wonderful things you can do in Burlington.

Address: 160 Flynn Ave, Burlington, VT 05401, United States

15. Ethan Allen Homestead Museum

This historic Burlington house museum was constructed by Ethan Allan in 1787.

The house lies adjacent to nearly 300 acres of public land along the Winooski river. It is surrounded with beautiful gardens and walking/biking trails. There’s also a picnic shelter.

The Ethan Allen Homestead Museum is open daily from Spring to Fall for guided tours. It’s a beautiful place to spend time with loved ones.

The Ethan Allen Homestead Museum allows visitors to tour Ethan Allen’s restored home. This is a famous politician and war patriot.

This museum shares not only the story of Ethan Allen and his family as well as the important history of Allen’s era.

The Ethan Allen Homestead Museum displays include exhibits about historical documents, outlaws, revolutionaries and artwork specific to each era.

Visitors can take part in fascinating lectures and guided tours to learn more about the history of the 18th century.

Address: 1 Ethan Allen Homestead, Burlington, VT 05408, United States

16. Oakledge Park

Oakledge Park, Burlington’s free park is a good choice if you are looking for things to do while there.

Oakledge Park, nestled on the shore of Lake Champlain is an idyllic spot to enjoy many outdoor activities and be surrounded by Vermont’s beautiful natural surroundings.

Oakledge Park is a great place to take your children to have fun.

Oakledge Park boasts a beautiful playground, picnic areas, accessible treehouses, and even a bicycle path.

Oakledge Park also offers a variety of sports, including bocce ball and tennis courts as well as volleyball courts.

The park also has walking trails, pavilions and barbecue grills.

Oakledge Park, which offers standup paddleboard rental and beach access to the lake, is another great place.

Oakledge Park is a great place to bring the entire family.

Address: 11 Flynn Ave, Burlington, VT 05401, United States

17. Burlington Farmers Market

The Burlington Farmers Market is located at the University of Vermont and has been open since 1980.

The market continues to be a major agricultural attraction, drawing both locals and tourists every Saturday in the Spring through Fall 40 years after its creation.

Markets are a wonderful place to find local produce and meet farmers. It’s also a fantastic way to experience Vermontian agriculture at its best.

Burlington Farmers Market, which is both a tourist attraction and a community in Burlington is just one of the many things you can do.

The Burlington Farmers Market has everything you need to know about Vermont.

The market has everything Burlington-related, from glassblowers and candlemakers to bakers and brewers to florists and weavers to all things in between.

You can also spend the entire day in the market because there are many cafes and restaurants nearby.

Address: 345 Pine St, Burlington, VT 05401, United States

18. Shelburne Farms

This charming working farm is a great place to start if you are looking for things to do while in Vermont.

The farm is located in Shelburne (VT), a small community near Burlington. It sits on 1,400 acres farmland, which serves as an educational hub and a place for sustainability.

Shelburne Farms, which is basically a farm campus with walking trails, can be enjoyed by leisurely strollers, while the center of the farm acts as an interactive learning environment.

Shelburne Farms has a farm store, formal gardens, an Inn and children’s farmyard.

If you want to live on the farm for just a few days, then the farm inn is an ideal place to stay.

You can do so many amazing things during your short or long stay, including learning how to milk cows and making cheese.

A Shelburne farm visit is a great way to experience this special way of living.

Address: 1611 Harbor Rd, Shelburne, VT 05482, United States

19. Lake Champlain Chocolates

Lake Champlain Chocolates, a Burlington institution is one of many things you can do.

Since 1983, this family-owned business has been in operation.

The company’s mantra is creativity, craftsmanship and high-quality ingredients.

Lake Champlain Chocolates is a well-known chocolatier known for creating exquisite truffles. Each one is hand-rolled by skilled artisans.

A self-guided tour at Lake Champlain Chocolates’ flagship store will delight chocolate lovers. You can learn about the inside workings of chocolate-making.

The store also has an eat-in café that is perfect for grabbing a coffee and sweet treats.

Finally, make sure you visit the shopfront to buy your local sweets. These are great souvenirs or gifts.

Lake Champlain Chocolates are open 7 days a week, so you can visit anytime.

Address: 750 Pine St, Burlington, VT 05401, United States

20. Burlington Edible History Tour

This two-mile walking tour is a great way to explore local history. It includes food and drinks along the route.

The tour takes you back to a time when farm-totable was the norm and not the latest.

A knowledgeable guide will lead you on a journey to culinary bliss. You’ll be able to learn more about the history of your area and enjoy delicious bites.

You’ll be able to connect with Burlington culture and history by sampling delicious dishes at five different restaurants.

You’ll learn about the new local food truck and wine made from your backyard grapevines. There is also a German sausage maker from Ellis Island.

The Edible History Tours offer tourists a rare view of Burlington’s history. They run June-October, which is the perfect time to walk in beautiful weather.

Burlington Edible History Tours are by far the best way to learn about local history.

Location: 1 College Street Burlington, VT 05401. United States

21. Hen of Wood

Hen of the Wood was established in 2005 and is now a Vermont institution.

The Burlington location is sister to the Waterbury one. It focuses on locally-sourced and farm-to-table foods.

Hen of Wood, therefore, is the place to go if you want a true Vermont dining experience.

The best part is that they use only local, seasonal ingredients. This means the menu changes all the time. However, the service and atmosphere are consistent.

Everything that touches your lips is sourced from the surrounding community.

Notably, many of the ingredients in recipes come from VT’s Green Mountains or Champlain Valley.

You can spend the afternoon exploring these stunning natural environments and then later enjoying the fruits of that place while you enjoy a delicious dinner at Hen of the Wood.

Headquarter: 55 Cherry St. Burlington (VT 05401), United States

22. Frog Hollow Craft Center

Frog Hollow Craft Center, which is renowned for being the US’s first state-level craft center, is home to all things arts and crafts.

The center was established in 1971 to share, support, and sustain crafts. It is an absolute must-see spot for craft enthusiasts.

Notably, the center also supports VT artists by displaying their works in stunning exhibits that the public can view.

Visitors can also shop for the work of more than 100 artists who are represented at the center.

The Frog Hollow Craft Center offers a wide range of local crafts and arts, including ceramics, glass, metal jewelry, woodworking and paintings.

The center also hosts regular programs like lectures, crafts shows, festivals, art auctions and other special events that support local VT artists.

Frog Hollow Craft Center is a wonderful spot to take in the creativity and beauty of local artists.

Address: 85 Church St, Burlington, VT 05401, United States

23. Battery Park

The park covers almost 15 acres and is considered one of America’s most picturesque spots.

The park was established in 1870 and offers breathtaking views over Lake Champlain as well as the Adirondack Mountains.

Battery Park, a public park located just outside of downtown Burlington is an amazing place to enjoy an afternoon with your family or friends.

You will find many wonderful features in the park, including a promenade and a bandshell as well as historic monuments.

The park has large open spaces as well as a playground for children, walking trails, and monuments to war.

Battery Park also offers a public ice skate rink for winter visitors.

It is available all year round, from sunrise until sunset. The perfect place for morning walks, afternoon jaunts, and evening concerts.

Contact: Battery Park Extension Burlington, VT 05401 USA

24. Petra Cliffs Climbing Center

Petra Cliffs Climbing Center, located just minutes from Burlington’s downtown, is the perfect place to get some exercise and have lots of fun.

The indoor climbing center was established in 2000. It is accessible for all abilities and ages.

Petra Cliffs Climbing Center offers a variety of mountain education classes, climbing exercises, and instruction based on experience. This allows visitors to improve their mountain climbing skills.

Indoor climbing centers offer daily, weekly and monthly passes, as well as individual lessons, adult clinics and team building events.

The center also offers a First Time Climbers Program for beginners and children.

The center also has an epic Mountaineering School, which offers nature-based programs, mountaineering programmes, specialty courses and other nuanced programming.

Petra Cliffs Climbing Center, a magnificent place to sharpen your mountain skills is a must for mountain lovers.

Address: 105 Briggs St, Burlington, VT 05401, United States

25. Burlington Surf Club

The best spot to spend the summer in VT is this lakeside location.

Burlington Surf Club, nestled on the beautiful white sandy shores Lake Champlain’s stunning lake Champlain is the best place to go in warmer temperatures.

You don’t have to be in direct sun if you aren’t a fan of too much sunlight. There is plenty of shade and greenery adjacent to the beach.

The club offers equipment rental for watersports if you want to have fun on the water.

The club is known for its natural beauty, perfect location and many other amenities that are available publicly to their guests.

You will find locker storage and changing rooms as well as a schedule with activities every day, along with classes in fitness.

Burlington Surf Club, which is open May-September, offers a great place for summer fun with family and friends.

Address: 50 Lakeside Ave, Burlington, VT 05401, United States

26. Magic Hat Artifactory

Magic Hat Artifactory is a unique experience in Vermont.

Burlington’s homegrown brewery should be a top choice for adults-only activities.

Magic Hat began in a bathtub at a college dormitory. It has since grown to be a nationally recognized brewer.

Magic Hat Artifactory is located in South End Burlington in an old factory. It has been open since 1995.

Magic Hat’s best-known variety is #9. It is a refreshing, crisp pale ale.

You can also sample other exclusive beers such as Hefeweizen and an India Pale Lager during your visit.

Visitors are invited to take free tours of the factory and get free samples. This is a great way to spend some time in Burlington.

The factory also houses a very curious gift shop, where you can buy funky souvenirs or beer to take.

Magic Hat Artifactory is one of Burlington’s top ten places to see.

Address: 5 Bartlett Bay Road, South Burlington, VT 05403, United States

Plan Your Burlington Trip Now

There are many things to do in Burlington.

There are so many tourist attractions in the Queen City.

Burlington has it all: from comedy clubs and walking tours to world-class museums, farm-to-table food galore and everything in-between, Burlington is not to be missed.

There are many exceptional experiences available, no matter whether you visit in winter or summer (or any time between).

You only need to book accommodations and pack your car so you can have the best time in The Queen City.

Enjoy your travels.