13 Best Things to Do in Burlington, VT
Burlington knows exactly how to turn on the charm, blending lakeside beauty with a downtown that’s buzzing but never overwhelming.
This city’s compact core packs in more personality than you’d expect–here are the best things to do in Burlington, Vermont.
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1. Explore Church Street Marketplace
Church Street Marketplace is where Burlington’s energy really shows off. Four pedestrian-only blocks are packed with over 100 shops and restaurants.
Street performers keep things interesting, and the streets make people-watching from a patio almost too easy.
Events pop up year-round, so there’s always something happening. No matter if you’re after quirky souvenirs or just a solid cup of coffee, wandering here is a breeze.
Best For: Shopping, dining, and soaking up downtown’s lively, car-free vibe.
2. Visit the Shelburne Museum
The Shelburne Museum is Northern New England’s largest art and history museum, and it’s just a quick drive south of Burlington.
You’ll wander through a wild mix of historic buildings and exhibits spread out across 45 acres.
Electra Havemeyer Webb founded it back in 1947, originally for her carriage collection, but it’s grown into so much more.
Folk art, historic structures, and even a full-sized steamboat—the Ticonderoga—wait for you here.
Every building brings something different to the table, so you never really know what you’ll stumble upon next.
Best For: Art and history enthusiasts who appreciate eclectic collections in a classic Vermont setting.
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3. Stroll Along the Burlington Waterfront Park
Burlington Waterfront Park lines Lake Champlain and serves up some of the best Adirondack views around. Expansive green spaces make it easy to spread out for a picnic or a slow walk.
Benches and shaded spots dot the park, and families often gather on the open lawns. From here, you can hop on a sunset cruise or try paddleboarding if you’re feeling adventurous.
Best For: Laid-back lakeside walks, mountain views, and relaxing outdoor hangouts.
4. Enjoy Local Flavors at Burlington Farmers Market
The Burlington Farmers Market takes over downtown every Saturday, spotlighting local produce, crafts, and all sorts of edible treats.
Fresh Vermont veggies, local cheeses, and homemade bread—there’s always something tempting.
It’s been a local staple since 1980, bringing together food, art, and community. Sampling your way through the stalls is half the fun.
The market runs May through October, so you’ve got plenty of weekends to get your fill of Vermont’s best.
Best For: Foodies who want to taste fresh local produce and artisanal Vermont treats on a Saturday morning.
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5. Relax at North Beach Park
North Beach Park is Burlington’s go-to sandy spot on Lake Champlain. Swim in the lake or just sprawl out on a blanket—either way, you’re set for a low-key day.
Volleyball courts, a kids’ playground, and wide open spaces keep everyone busy.
When you get hungry, there’s a concession stand for snacks and drinks, plus those mountain views never get old.
Best For: Families and anyone who craves sandy beaches and swimming right on the lake.
6. Tour Lake Champlain by Boat
Lake Champlain stretches out for over 120 miles between Vermont and New York, and it’s even better from the water.
Cruise past mountain views, spot wildlife, and gawk at historic homes along the shore.
Spirit of Ethan Allen runs daily cruises—from sightseeing to dinner outings with local flavors.
Buttercup Cruises offers both public and private boat tours, all leaving right from the waterfront.
Best For: Scenic boat rides, sunset views, and seeing Burlington’s skyline from the lake.
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7. Discover Local Brews at Foam Brewers
Foam Brewers gets creative with their beers, and the lakefront location is pretty unbeatable. You’ll want to try everything from tart Gose to bold stouts and hop-forward IPAs.
The laid-back vibe draws a mix of beer nerds, college students, and families. It’s the kind of spot where you’ll lose track of time, especially if there’s live music on.
Best For: People after inventive brews, waterfront views, and a community hangout.
8. Visit the ECHO Leahy Center
The ECHO Leahy Center sits right on the waterfront, serving up Adirondack views and hands-on science fun. Over 100 interactive exhibits make it easy for kids (and adults) to get curious.
Meet 70 live species—think fish, reptiles, and amphibians from Lake Champlain. Aquariums, 3D films, and engineering challenges keep things lively for hours.
Best For: Families with curious kids who want hands-on science and wildlife encounters.
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9. Catch Live Music at Higher Ground
Higher Ground is Burlington’s top music venue, tucked inside an old movie theater. With two stages—the Ballroom and the Showcase Lounge—you can catch different acts in one night.
Expect everything from local bluegrass to national touring DJs. The space is intimate, so you’re always close to the action.
Best For: Music enthusiasts wanting up-close concerts with a mix of emerging and established acts.
10. Bike the Island Line Trail
Take on one of New England’s most scenic rail-trails—hugging Lake Champlain’s edge nearly the whole way.
The 14.5-mile Island Line Trail starts at the waterfront and heads all the way to South Hero Island.
The real showstopper? A three-mile causeway right out into the lake. The Adirondack views are unreal.
If you hit the 200-foot causeway gap, the Local Motion Bike Ferry has you covered.
Best For: Families after a flat, easy ride with unbeatable lake and mountain views.
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11. Explore the Flynn Center for the Performing Arts
Burlington’s cultural pulse beats at the Flynn Center, a gorgeous Art Deco theater dating back to 1930. Broadway shows, concerts, dance, and comedy light up the stage all year long.
Around 200,000 people visit annually, drawn to everything from international music acts to Vermont Symphony Orchestra shows. The downtown spot makes dinner and a show easy to pull off.
Best For: A dose of theater and culture with world-class performances in a historic venue.
12. Wander Through the South End Arts District
Burlington’s South End Arts District pulses with creativity along Pine Street. Artist studios, galleries, and splashy murals fill old warehouses and industrial spaces.
Local craftspeople work on everything from jewelry to large-scale art. The annual South End Art Hop in September is your best shot at meeting artists and peeking inside their studios.
Best For: If you love finding local talent and browsing one-of-a-kind creations.
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13. Go Kayaking or Paddleboarding
Lake Champlain dishes out some top-notch paddling—it’s the thirteenth biggest lake in the country, and you’re never far from a boat launch.
Glide along glassy water that’s kind to beginners, or, if you’re feeling bold, slip into one of those tucked-away backcountry ponds.
The Derway Cove launch at River’s End Park is a great option—just pull up and you’re on the water in no time.
Best For: Laid-back paddling with mountain views and easy put-ins.
