Things to Do in Burlington in November
November weather, activities, events & insider tips
November Weather in Burlington
Is November Right for You?
Advantages
- Lake Champlain is stunningly clear in November - the summer algae blooms are completely gone, and you get those dramatic slate-gray waters under moody skies that photographers dream about. The waterfront is yours without the summer crowds.
- Fall foliage stragglers and early snow create this brief window where you might catch golden leaves against white peaks in the Adirondacks across the lake - it's rare but genuinely spectacular when it happens, usually first two weeks of the month.
- Restaurant reservations are actually available. Places like Hen of the Wood and Honey Road that require 3-week advance booking in summer? You can often walk in or book same-week in November. Locals reclaim their city and the dining scene feels more authentic.
- Hotel rates drop 40-60% compared to peak summer and fall foliage season. A room at the Hilton that runs USD 300 in October goes for USD 120-150 in November, and you're getting the same lake views without fighting for parking.
Considerations
- Weather is genuinely unpredictable - you might get 10°C (50°F) and sunny one day, then 0°C (32°F) with sleet the next. I've seen years where it snows 15 cm (6 inches) before Thanksgiving and others where people are still biking in t-shirts mid-month. Pack for all scenarios.
- Daylight is limited - sunset hits around 4:30pm by late November, which means your outdoor activities need to happen between 8am-4pm. That's a tight window if you're also trying to sleep in and enjoy leisurely meals.
- Many seasonal attractions close entirely. The Lake Champlain ferry to New York runs reduced schedules, some waterfront restaurants shutter until spring, and outdoor adventure outfitters wind down operations. The city feels quieter, which is great if that's what you want, but limiting if you're expecting summer-level options.
Best Activities in November
Church Street Marketplace and downtown gallery walks
November is when Burlington's indoor culture scene actually shines. The pedestrian marketplace stays lively with local shops, and the South End Arts District galleries are in full swing without the summer tourist crush. Weather drives people indoors, which means coffee shops like Vivid Coffee Roasters and craft breweries are packed with locals - you get authentic conversations and the real Burlington vibe. Thursday evenings often have gallery openings with free wine and local art.
Shelburne Museum indoor collections
The outdoor buildings close for winter, but November is actually ideal for the main museum buildings - no crowds, and the staff have time to actually talk with you about the collections. The Electra Havemeyer Webb Memorial Building and the art galleries are heated and spectacular. You're looking at Impressionist paintings and folk art without anyone breathing down your neck. Located 11 km (7 miles) south of downtown.
Craft brewery tours and tastings
Vermont's beer scene is legendary, and November is prime time - new seasonal releases, warm taprooms, and brewers who aren't slammed with tour buses. Zero Gravity, Foam Brewers, and Queen City Brewery are all within walking distance of downtown. The Pine Street corridor has become brewery row, and locals treat it like a social hub in the colder months.
Mount Philo State Park hiking
This is your best bet for November hiking - it's only 283 m (930 ft) elevation, the trail is well-maintained, and you can drive most of the way up if weather turns. The summit gives you panoramic views of Lake Champlain and the Adirondacks, and in November you might be the only person up there. The 1.2 km (0.75 mile) summit trail takes 30-40 minutes. Located 24 km (15 miles) south of Burlington.
Flynn Center and Higher Ground live performances
November is when Burlington's music and theater scene goes full throttle. The Flynn Center downtown hosts everything from Vermont Symphony Orchestra to touring Broadway shows, while Higher Ground in South Burlington gets national indie and rock acts. Locals pack these venues when outdoor options disappear - it's genuine community gathering, not tourist entertainment.
Intervale Center farm tours and local food experiences
November is harvest wrap-up time, and the Intervale Center offers a fascinating look at Vermont's farm-to-table movement in action. You'll see root vegetable storage, season extension techniques, and meet farmers who supply Burlington's best restaurants. It's 3.2 km (2 miles) from downtown along the bike path, which is still rideable in early November if you dress right.
November Events & Festivals
Vermont International Film Festival
Usually runs late October into early November at venues across Burlington. This is a legitimate film festival with independent films, documentaries, and shorts from around the world. Locals take it seriously - screenings sell out, and you'll find yourself in post-film discussions at nearby bars with actual filmmakers.
Holiday markets preview shopping
Late November sees the first holiday craft markets pop up, particularly at the Elley-Long Music Center and Memorial Auditorium. These aren't tourist traps - they're where Vermonters buy gifts from local artisans. You'll find hand-thrown pottery, maple products, handwoven textiles, and woodwork that's actually worth the premium prices.