Things to Do in Burlington

About Burlington

Vermont's largest city with 42,417 residents sits on Lake Champlain's eastern shore, featuring a historic waterfront that provides stunning views of the Adirondack Mountains across 12-mile-wide waters, while Church Street Marketplace creates a pedestrian-only shopping district with local artisans, farm-to-table restaurants, and craft breweries serving Vermont-made cheese and maple products. Lake Champlain offers year-round recreation from summer swimming when water temperatures reach 21-24°C to winter ice fishing for lake trout and northern pike, with boat rentals averaging $50-85 per day and fishing licenses costing $26 annually for non-residents seeking authentic New England outdoor experiences. Burlington's craft brewery scene includes Switchback Brewing and Zero Gravity with tasting flights for $8-12 featuring IPAs made with locally-grown hops, while nearby farms produce award-winning cheddar cheese aged in underground caves that visitors can tour for $12-18 per person with samples included. Visit during peak fall foliage season (late September-early October) when maple, birch, and oak trees create spectacular red, orange, and gold displays reflected in lake waters, while temperatures average 10-18°C perfect for hiking, cycling, and outdoor festivals accompanied by crisp mountain air carrying the scent of wood smoke and autumn leaves.

Travel Tips

Transportation: Burlington is highly walkable downtown, but rent a car to explore Vermont's scenic countryside. The CCTA bus system connects major attractions for $1.25 per ride. Burlington International Airport is just 10 minutes from downtown, with direct flights to major East Coast cities.

Money: Most establishments accept cards, but carry cash for farmers markets and food trucks. Tipping is standard 18-20% at restaurants. Budget $100-150 daily for mid-range dining and activities. Many breweries and attractions offer combo deals for better value.

Cultural Respect: Vermonters value environmental consciousness—bring reusable water bottles and respect 'Leave No Trace' principles. Support local businesses over chains when possible. Dress casually but appropriately for outdoor activities, and be patient with the relaxed, friendly pace of service.

Food Safety: Burlington's restaurant scene maintains high standards. Try iconic local specialties like Vermont cheddar, maple syrup, and craft beer. Visit Church Street Marketplace for diverse dining options. Make reservations at popular farm-to-table restaurants, especially during peak foliage season.

When to Visit

Burlington shines brightest during fall (September-October) when temperatures range 45-70°F and rainfall averages 3.5 inches monthly. Peak foliage occurs late September through mid-October, drawing massive crowds and increasing accommodation prices by 40-60%. Summer (June-August) offers perfect weather with highs of 75-82°F and minimal rainfall (3 inches monthly), ideal for lake activities and outdoor festivals. Expect 25-35% higher rates during summer peak. The Vermont Brewers Festival happens in mid-July, while the Champlain Valley Folk Festival occurs in early August. Winter (December-March) transforms Burlington into a snowy wonderland with temperatures of 15-35°F and 2-3 feet of snowfall monthly. Accommodation prices drop 30-40%, making it perfect for budget-conscious travelers who enjoy skiing and winter sports. Spring (April-May) brings mild weather (50-68°F) and moderate rainfall (3.2 inches), with 20% lower prices and fewer crowds. For optimal weather and reasonable prices, visit late May or early September. Families should target summer for lake activities, while couples seeking romance will love the cozy winter atmosphere and reduced crowds.