Things to Do at Lake Champlain Waterfront

Complete Guide to Lake Champlain Waterfront in Burlington

About Lake Champlain Waterfront

Lake Champlain Waterfront offers visitors hands-on workshops available weekends with admission typically $12. Photography is permitted in most areas, but flash is prohibited near sensitive displays. The sound of distant conversations bounces off vaulted ceilings as your fingers trace intricate carvings on century-old railings. Recent renovations have modernized visitor amenities while preserving the authentic character that makes this location unique.

What to See & Do

Burlington Bike Path

This 7.6-mile paved trail hugs the shoreline and connects several parks. It's genuinely scenic rather than just functional, and you'll likely find yourself stopping frequently for lake views and people-watching.

Waterfront Park and Boardwalk

The heart of the waterfront scene, with a wooden boardwalk, amphitheater, and plenty of spots to sit and watch boat traffic. Summer evenings here tend to have a festival-like atmosphere without the crowds.

Lake Champlain Ferry

Even if you're not heading to New York, the ferry ride offers some of the best perspectives of Burlington's skyline and the surrounding mountains. It's a working ferry, so it feels authentic rather than touristy.

ECHO Leahy Center for Lake Champlain

This science museum focuses on the lake's ecology and history. The aquarium section is surprisingly engaging, and the building itself offers great views from its upper floors.

North Beach

Burlington's main swimming beach is about a mile north of downtown. The water's actually swimmable in summer, and the beach has that slightly retro feel of Great Lakes resort towns.

Practical Information

Opening Hours

The waterfront itself is accessible 24/7, though individual attractions have varying hours. Most facilities and attractions operate seasonally from May through October.

Tickets & Pricing

Walking the waterfront is free. ECHO Center admission is around $15 for adults. Ferry rides range from $8-20 depending on destination. Bike rentals typically run $25-40 per day.

Best Time to Visit

Late spring through early fall offers the most activities and warmest weather. Summer can get busy on weekends, so weekday mornings tend to be more peaceful. Fall foliage season in September-October is genuinely spectacular.

Suggested Duration

You could easily spend a full day here, but even a 2-3 hour walk gives you a good sense of the area. Factor in more time if you're planning to swim, take the ferry, or visit indoor attractions.

Getting There

Burlington's waterfront sits right below downtown. Walk down the hill. Done. If you're driving, Battery Street has parking along with several lots near the ferry terminal, though summer weekends fill up fast. The bike path connects throughout the city. Makes cycling practical. Burlington International Airport runs about 10 minutes away. The Amtrak station sits 5 miles out of town-you'll need a taxi or rideshare. Not ideal.

Things to Do Nearby

Church Street Marketplace
Burlington's pedestrian-only downtown strip, just a few blocks uphill from the waterfront. It's got that college town energy with decent shopping and restaurants.

Shelburne Museum
About 10 minutes south, this sprawling collection of Americana and folk art is housed in historic buildings. It's genuinely quirky and worth the short drive.

Vermont Brewers Festival locations
Burlington has become something of a craft beer destination. Several breweries are within walking distance of the waterfront, including some with lake views.

Ben & Jerry's Factory
The original factory tour in Waterbury is about 45 minutes away, but there's a scoop shop right downtown if you just want the ice cream experience.

Camel's Hump State Park
For serious hikers, this distinctive peak is about 45 minutes away and offers some of the best views in Vermont. It's a challenging day hike but worth the effort.

Tips & Advice

The bike path can get crowded with both cyclists and pedestrians, so stay aware of your surroundings and keep right when walking.

Lake Champlain is a big lake, so weather can change quickly. Even on calm days, it's worth checking conditions if you're planning water activities.

Parking downtown fills up fast in summer, but there's usually space in the residential neighborhoods just uphill - it's only a 5-10 minute walk.

The ferry to New York runs year-round, but service is much more frequent in summer. If you want to take it just for the ride, check the schedule to avoid getting stuck on the other side longer than planned.