Things to Do at Church Street Marketplace

Complete Guide to Church Street Marketplace in Burlington

About Church Street Marketplace

Church Street Marketplace offers visitors interactive exhibits spanning three floors with admission typically $0. Allow 2-3 hours for a thorough visit, including time for the gift shop. The gentle hum of air circulation systems maintains perfect humidity while soft LED lighting reveals textures invisible in natural light. Recent renovations have modernized visitor amenities while preserving the authentic character that makes this location unique.

What to See & Do

Street Performers and Musicians

The marketplace is famous for its buskers - you'll encounter everything from folk guitarists to juggling acts, especially during warmer months

Local Boutiques and Shops

Browse unique Vermont-made goods, from handcrafted jewelry to locally-roasted coffee, mixed with some national retailers

Historic Architecture

The surrounding buildings showcase beautiful 19th-century commercial architecture, with many original facades preserved

Outdoor Dining and Cafés

Plenty of spots to grab local beer, farm-to-table meals, or Vermont's famous maple creemees while watching the street life

Seasonal Events and Festivals

The marketplace hosts regular events throughout the year, from summer concerts to winter holiday markets

Practical Information

Opening Hours

The pedestrian mall is accessible 24/7, though individual shops and restaurants typically operate 10am-9pm, with some variation by season and day of week

Tickets & Pricing

Free to walk and explore - individual purchases vary by shop and restaurant

Best Time to Visit

Late spring through early fall offers the most street activity and outdoor dining, though winter has its own charm with holiday decorations

Suggested Duration

Plan 2-4 hours if you want to browse shops and grab a meal, though you could easily spend a full day here

Getting There

Gateway Center garage is your best bet. Church Street Marketplace sits in downtown Burlington, and you can reach it easily no matter how you travel. Most downtown hotels are walkable. Driving works fine. You'll find several parking garages within a block or two of the marketplace. The Amtrak station is just a few blocks away. Coming from the waterfront? It's an easy uphill walk of about three blocks from Lake Champlain-not bad at all.

Things to Do Nearby

Lake Champlain Waterfront
Just a few blocks downhill, offering scenic walking paths, boat tours, and beautiful sunset views

Flynn Center for the Performing Arts
Historic theater venue right on the marketplace hosting concerts, Broadway shows, and local performances

City Hall Park
Small green space at the top of Church Street, often hosting farmers markets and community events

Battery Park
Hilltop park with cannons and lake views, about a 10-minute walk from the marketplace

University of Vermont Campus
The main campus is within walking distance uphill, worth seeing for its historic buildings and campus green

Tips & Advice

Parking can be tricky during peak times - arrive early or consider walking from your hotel if you're staying downtown

The street performers are part of the charm, but they appreciate tips if you stop to listen

Many shops are locally-owned, so don't expect chain store hours - some close earlier on Sundays or during off-season

The marketplace can get quite crowded during UVM move-in weekend and major events, so plan accordingly