7 Fun Things to Do with Kids
Burlington is known for its free spirit, quaint urban center, and location right on the shores of Lake Champlain. But what it should be known for is its family-friendly activities. Take it from us, there are more fun things to do with kids in Burlington VT than you’d think. From stuffing your own teddy bears to digging into a scoop of the good stuff (you know what we’re talking about), Burlington has it all.
Satisfy your sweet tooth, get some air, or put your grip strength to the test, all during your getaway to the big city. Check out our 7 favorite kid-friendly activities near the Essex Resort.
#7 - Climb Petra Cliffs
Families who adventure together stay together. At Petra Cliffs, you can put your family’s adrenaline to the test with a variety of challenging activities, from indoor climbing to mountaineering. For first time and young climbers, Petra Cliffs recommends indoor bouldering or climbing with auto belays or belay on toprope.
#6 - Get Air
Bounce off the walls at Get Air, which features thousands of square feet of trampolines. Take the whole family into the Open Court’s side-by-side trampolines, where parents and kids alike can try new tricks. Get Air also reserves space for the little ones in their Kids Court, which is exclusive to those under 46” in height. This trampoline park also hosts exciting weekly events like Toddler Time and CLub Air, where you can get your jump on to fun dance music.
#5 - Boulder at MetroRock
Like Petra Cliffs, MetroRock offers exhilarating indoor bouldering and auto-belaying adventures. However, MetroRock also features an adrenaline-inducing Challenge Course—the perfect way for kids to burn off some afternoon energy. Kids can swing onto platforms, complete a tightrope walk, and even scurry up a cargo net.
#4 - Visit the Echo Lake Aquarium
The Echo Lake Aquarium sits just off the shores of Lake Champlain, fitting for a facility dedicated to life under the sea. Dive into lake life, learn about invasive specials, and get up close to sea life like the Pumpkinseed Fish and the Neonate Map Turtle. The aquarium is part of the ECHO Leahy Center for Lake Champlain, which also features a 3D theater, optical illusions gallery, and even a STEM Cafe.
#3 - Build a Vermont Teddy Bear
In 1981, a man began selling hand-crafted teddy bears out of a pushcart on Burlington’s Church Street. Fast forward 35 years, and that pushcart has become Vermont Teddy Bear. At Vermont Teddy Bear, kids can build their own bear after watching expert craftspeople bring bears to life. Families can even tour the Bear Hospital, where Dr. Nancy repairs Bears who have seen better days.
#2 - Get a Scoop of Ben & Jerry’s
Ben & Jerry’s headquarters is perhaps Vermont’s biggest claim to fame, especially for ice cream loving families. Head to nearby Waterbury to embark on a factory tour. At the factory, you can learn the magic that makes your favorite flavor. Don’t miss the Scoop Shop and Flavor