Your Guide to Burlington, Vermont
Burlington, Vermont, is the perfect blend of natural beauty, rich culture, and small-town charm. Whether you’re here to explore scenic landscapes, savor locally crafted food and drinks, or simply unwind, this lakeside city has something for everyone. Nestled between the Green Mountains and Lake Champlain, Burlington offers breathtaking views, outdoor adventures, and a vibrant arts and culinary scene. No matter the season, you’ll find countless ways to make lasting memories.
As a guest of The Essex Resort & Spa, you’re in the ideal location to experience the best of Burlington and beyond. From seasonal activities to must-visit attractions, this guide will help you plan the perfect Vermont getaway.
Burlington Through the Seasons
Summer: Lake Life & Outdoor Adventures
Burlington shines in the summer, offering endless opportunities to explore the outdoors and soak up the sunshine. Lake Champlain is the heart of the city, with a wide range of water activities such as kayaking, paddleboarding, and scenic boat tours. If you’d rather stay on land, the Burlington Bike Path stretches along the waterfront, offering stunning lake views and access to multiple parks and beaches. Indian Brook Park, just a 5 minute Drive from The Essex, is perfect for hiking and fishing in a peaceful, natural setting.
Burlington’s vibrant downtown also comes alive in the summer, with live music, outdoor dining, and seasonal festivals. Whether you’re spending the day by the water or enjoying the city’s lively atmosphere, summer in Burlington is not to be missed.
How to Spend a Perfect Summer Day
Morning: Kayak on Lake Champlain or take a walk along the waterfront.
Afternoon: Relax at North Beach or enjoy a picnic at Oakledge Park.
Evening: Take a sunset cruise and enjoy dinner with a lake view.
Local Tip: Bring a hammock, book, and and soak in the views.
Fall: Foliage, Festivals & Farm Fresh Flavors
There’s no better place to experience autumn than Burlington, where Vermont’s legendary fall foliage transforms the landscape into a sea of reds, oranges, and yellows. The city is surrounded by scenic drives, with Route 7 and Route 15 offering particularly breathtaking views. Hiking trails, such as Libby’s Look, provide spectacular overlooks of the changing leaves and the Champlain Valley.
Fall is also the season of apple picking, pumpkin patches, and warm cider donuts—autumn essentials for both visitors and locals alike. Downtown Burlington is especially charming this time of year, with cozy cafés, local cideries, and seasonal festivals that celebrate Vermont’s rich agricultural traditions. Whether you’re enjoying a crisp afternoon hike or sipping warm cider at a local orchard, fall in Burlington is a season worth savoring.
A Classic Fall Day in Burlington
Morning: Take a scenic foliage drive and stop for fresh cider donuts.
Afternoon: Hike to Libby’s Look or visit a pumpkin patch.
Evening: Cozy up with a warm drink at a local café.
Local Tip: The best foliage usually peaks in early October, but late September and mid-October are also stunning.
Winter: Snowy Adventures & Cozy Retreats
Burlington in winter is a dream for snow lovers, offering everything from skiing and snowboarding to charming small-town festivities. Bolton Valley, the closest ski resort, provides slopes for all skill levels, while Jay Peak offers more challenging terrain for experienced skiers and snowboarders.
If you’re looking for a slower pace, snowshoeing through the trails at The Essex or nearby parks is a peaceful way to take in the winter landscape. The season also brings Burlington’s festive charm to life—twinkling lights downtown, cozy cafés serving warm drinks at Uncommon Coffee, and local shops filled with handcrafted holiday gifts.
A Winter Itinerary for Relaxation & Fun
Morning: Hit the slopes at Bolton Valley or explore snowshoeing trails.
Afternoon: Warm up with a spa treatment or a hot chocolate at Ucnommon.
Evening: Enjoy a fireside dinner at a cozy restaurant.
Local Tip: Bolton Valley offers night skiing—an unforgettable experience under the stars!
Spring: Maple Season & Outdoor Refresh
Spring in Burlington brings fresh mountain air, blooming flowers, and one of Vermont’s most iconic traditions—maple sugaring season. Local sugarhouses welcome visitors to see how syrup is made and sample it fresh from the source.
Warmer weather also means hiking trails reopen, making it the perfect time to explore places like Mt. Philo or the trails along Lake Champlain. For those who love gardens, the Vermont Flower Show is a must-visit.
Spring Highlights in Burlington
Morning: Visit a maple sugarhouse for fresh syrup tastings.
Afternoon: Explore a botanical garden or take a springtime hike.
Evening: Try your hand at axe throwing at Burly Axe.
Local Tip: Peak maple sugaring season happens in March, but syrup is available year-round.
Year-Round Attractions
Burlington is a vibrant city with something for everyone throughout the year. Whether you're exploring the natural beauty of Lake Champlain, diving into Burlington’s cultural scene, or simply soaking up the atmosphere, there are plenty of must-visit spots.
Burlington Highlights:
● Echo Center – Explore exhibits that highlight the natural history and environmental science of Lake Champlain.
● Church Street Marketplace – Stroll along this historic pedestrian street, lined with unique shops, restaurants, and local attractions.
● Breweries – Burlington’s craft beer scene is thriving, with award-winning breweries offering local brews and fantastic atmospheres that are family and kid-friendly.
The Essex Experience:
● Live Music at The Double E – Enjoy local performances in a cozy, lively venue.
● Restaurants – Sample delicious meals at local eateries, with both casual and fine dining options.
● Local Shops – Browse unique finds, from clothing to artisan goods.
● Brewery/Cidery – Enjoy Vermont’s best beer and cider, with local options to taste and take home.
● Coffee Shop – Savor a cup of Vermont’s finest coffee at one of the local spots.
● Cinema – Watch the latest films in a charming, local theater.
Cultural Attractions
Burlington and the surrounding areas are rich in culture, art, and history, making it an ideal destination for those seeking a more intellectual or creative getaway.
Must-Visit Cultural Spots:
● Shelburne Museum – Explore a diverse collection of American art, antiques, and exhibits set in a beautiful landscape.
● ArtHound Gallery – New England’s largest art gallery, featuring an array of contemporary artwork from both local and national artists.
● Vermont Comedy Club – Enjoy hilarious performances from local and national stand-up comedians, offering a fun night out.
Family-Friendly Activities
Burlington is the perfect place for families looking to create lasting memories. With a variety of attractions designed for all ages, your kids will never run out of things to do.
Family-Friendly Highlights:
● Vermont Teddy Bear Factory – Visit the world-famous factory and create a teddy bear to take home as a souvenir.
● Ben & Jerry’s Factory Tour – Take a tour of the iconic ice cream factory and indulge in their world-famous flavors.
● Shelburne Farms – A historic farm offering educational experiences, walking trails, and hands-on activities for children.
Outdoor Adventures
For outdoor enthusiasts, Burlington offers a range of activities that will keep you active and engaged year-round.
Outdoor Adventure Highlights:
● Hiking – Explore scenic trails such as Arbor Trek, Mt. Philo, and Indian Brook for breathtaking views and outdoor fun.
● Lake Champlain – Enjoy kayaking, paddleboarding, and boating on the stunning Lake Champlain.
● Catamount Outdoor Family Center – This outdoor adventure hub offers cross-country skiing, mountain biking, and other activities for families and outdoor lovers.
Events & Festivals
Experience Burlington’s vibrant event calendar, including:
● Oktoberfest: Celebrate fall with craft beer, German food, live music, and family fun at Burlington's Oktoberfest.
● Champlain Valley Fair: Enjoy thrilling rides, agricultural exhibits, and live entertainment at this classic Vermont fair.
● Burlington Food & Wine Festival: Savor local food, wine, and craft beverages at Burlington’s premier culinary festival.
Dining and Shopping
Burlington offers a delightful mix of dining options, local shops, and artisan markets that are perfect for those looking to explore Vermont’s culinary and retail scene.
Dining Highlights:
● Winooski – This area offers a variety of dining options, including globally-inspired cuisine.
● The Essex Experience – Over 25 local independent shops and restaurants are located here, offering everything from cozy cafés to exquisite dining.
● Burlington’s Church Street Marketplace – A bustling street full of eclectic local restaurants, from casual bites to fine dining.
● Award-Winning Breweries & Cideries – Vermont is known for its breweries and cideries, and Burlington is no exception.
Nightlife and Entertainment
Whether you’re looking for live music, a night out with friends, or a comedy show, Burlington’s nightlife and entertainment scene has something to offer everyone.
Nightlife Spots to Check Out:
● The Double E (The Essex Experience) – Enjoy live music performances weekly, offering a range of genres in a welcoming, intimate setting.
● Vermont Comedy Club – One of the top comedy clubs in Vermont, featuring national and local comedians.
● Higher Ground – Burlington’s premier live music venue, hosting top-notch bands and musical acts year-round.
Local Tips
To help you make the most of your time in Burlington, here are a few local tips to ensure your trip is as enjoyable as possible.
Helpful Local Tips:
● Best Time to Visit – Fall and summer offer the most enjoyable weather, but each season has its charm.
● Parking Tips – Street parking in downtown Burlington can be tricky, so consider using the parking garage on Cherry Street
Practical Information
For a smooth trip to Burlington, here’s some essential practical information you’ll need to know to make your visit hassle-free.
Practical Info:
● Weather – Pack accordingly for the season, with warm clothes for winter and layers for fall and spring.
● Transportation – Burlington is easily accessible by car, bus, and plane, with the Burlington International Airport nearby.
● Emergency Contacts – In case of emergencies, the local hospital is UVMMC, and the Burlington Police Department is available 24/7.
Plan Your Burlington Adventure
No matter the season, Burlington invites you to explore, experience, and indulge. With The Essex Resort & Spa as your home base, you’re never far from the best of Vermont’s charm, beauty, and adventure.
