A vibrant, compact city hugging the eastern shoreline of Lake Champlain, Burlington abounds in scenic beauty, four-season recreation, a college town vibe, arts and culture, and a quirky character all its own.
Eclectic shops named Anjou & the Little Pear or Common Deer, and restaurants called Zabby & Elf ’s Stone Soup or The Skinny Pancake dot the urban landscape. A local artist’s satirical comment on the bureaucracy of urban planning called File Under So. Co., Waiting for…, consists of 38 filing cabinets welded together to a 40-foot height. Birds frequently nest in the upper chambers.
History buffs stroll through the Ethan Allen Homestead Museum or the Fleming Museum of Art’s multi-era artifact collection while hikers trek the 12.5-mile path at Burlington Waterfront Park, which offers bicycle, rollerblade and kayak rentals. In season, the path connects to the Lake Champlain Islands via bike ferry.
Since the 1800s, the Old North End has been the city’s melting pot, and global cuisine from Nepalese dumplings to the African Market can be found here today. Between munches, stroll over to historic Elmwood Cemetery, whose residents include Revolutionary War soldiers. Hear their stories and perhaps have a chance encounter with a local spirit on a Queen City Ghostwalk Tour.
Liquid spirits rule when the internationally famous, regionally beloved and hidden gem breweries line up for the annual Vermont Brewers Festival. Year round, enjoy homemade bratwurst and drafts at Zero Gravity Craft Beer. At acclaimed Foam Brewers, the patio faces Lake Champlain waterfront and the Adirondack Mountains. Hop on the Sip of Burlington Brew Tour for a dozen tastings and the sights of this dynamic, energetic city.
Where to Dock
Burlington Community Boathouse Marina
802-865-3377
This full-service marina is the centerpiece of a growing waterfront. Amenities include 105 slips up to 65 feet, Splash Café and a fantastic sunset over the Adirondacks.
Burlington Harbor Marina
802-540-6869
With 160 slips (60 transient slips up to 80 feet), this new marina’s tranquil harbor setting is convenient to downtown amenities and recreational activities.
Where to Dine
Honey Road
802-497-2145
Savor sophisticated Mediterranean small plates, cocktails and creative desserts in a comfy tavern setting.
The Farmhouse Tap & Grill
802-859-0888
This farm-to-table gastropub dishes up local burgers, charcuterie and innovative specials. Sip on local brews in the beer garden.
RíRá
802-860-9401
According to Irish playwright Brendan Behan, “The most important things to do in the world are to get something to eat, something to drink and somebody to love you.” RíRá fuses classic Irish with pub grub to satisfy the first two.
Leunig’s Bistro & Café
802-863-3759
Step inside the lush garden courtyard to watch fresh local fruit, vegetables, meat and seafood transform into classic French dishes. Come enjoy a romantic evening meal.
Hen of the Wood
802-540-0534
Enjoy a true Vermont dining experience in a romantic, rustic atmosphere adjacent to the Hotel Vermont.
