Burlington VermontATTRACTIONS & THINGS TO DO
Listed below are the best attractions and things to do near Burlington, Vermont.
1. Church Street Marketplace
VIBRANT CAR-FREE SHOPPING
Church Street Marketplace is a broad, car-free space in downtown Burlington lined with shops and restaurants where there is almost always something happening. The bustling outdoor mall serves as the main shopping district a few streets above the lake shore. Visitors can enjoy the lively atmosphere while exploring local businesses in this central hub of the city.
2. ECHO Leahy Center for Lake Champlain
INTERACTIVE LAKE ECOSYSTEM MUSEUM
The ECHO Leahy Center for Lake Champlain offers visitors an opportunity to learn about the species that call Lake Champlain home and the efforts to conserve this natural ecosystem. This museum celebrates the Lake Champlain ecosystem with plenty of activities for the whole family to enjoy. Visitors can explore interactive exhibits that highlight the importance of this significant body of water often referred to as the 'sixth great lake.'
3. Burlington Bike Path
SCENIC LAKESIDE TRAIL
The Burlington Bike Path features packed gravel on a narrow causeway that takes riders, walkers, or wheelchair users across Lake Champlain. Cyclists can connect to a bike ferry to South Hero, extending their journey further into the lake. The path offers stunning views of the lake and the Adirondack mountains on the opposite shore in New York.
4. Waterfront Park
LAKESIDE RECREATION AREA
Waterfront Park sits at the edge of Lake Champlain where Burlington's thriving downtown reaches right to the shore. The park provides a perfect vantage point for enjoying views of the lake and the skyline of the Adirondack mountains beyond. Visitors can relax by the water, attend events held at the park, or access the Burlington Bike Path from this recreational area.
5. Fleming Museum of Art
DIVERSE ART COLLECTION
The Fleming Museum of Art houses more than 24,000 collected pieces that take viewers on an exploration of art and anthropology. Located on the University of Vermont campus, this museum features 150,000 pieces of exhibited Americana among its vast collections. Visitors can experience a wide range of artistic expressions and cultural artifacts spanning various time periods and geographical regions.
6. Vermont Comedy Club
PREMIER LIVE COMEDY VENUE
Vermont Comedy Club is a locally owned performing arts venue featuring standup, improv, and sketch comedy. As Vermont's premier comedy club, it brings laughter and entertainment to Burlington's vibrant cultural scene. Visitors can enjoy performances by local talent as well as nationally recognized comedians in this intimate setting.
7. Flynn Center for the Performing Arts
HISTORIC PERFORMANCE VENUE
The Flynn Center for the Performing Arts is a magnet for top national and international performers and music in Burlington. This historic theater serves as home to various performances including the Vermont Symphony Orchestra as well as music and theater groups from the university. The beautifully restored venue contributes significantly to Burlington's reputation as a cultural destination in Vermont.
8. Spirit of Ethan Allen Cruises
LAKE CHAMPLAIN DINNER CRUISES
Spirit of Ethan Allen Cruises offers dinner cruises on Lake Champlain, providing a unique perspective of Burlington from the water. Passengers can enjoy dining while taking in panoramic views of the city skyline, the surrounding mountains, and the lake itself. These cruises combine culinary experiences with sightseeing for a memorable outing on Vermont's largest lake.
9. South End Arts District
CREATIVE CULTURAL HUB
The South End Arts District showcases Burlington's large population of artists and high-quality craftspeople through numerous galleries and studios. This vibrant neighborhood has transformed former industrial spaces into creative hubs where visitors can explore local art and craftsmanship. The district hosts regular events including the popular South End Art Hop, which celebrates the area's artistic community.
10. Ethan Allen Homestead
REVOLUTIONARY HISTORY SITE
The Ethan Allen Homestead preserves the final home of the Revolutionary War hero and early Vermont leader. Visitors can tour the historic homestead to learn about Allen's life and his significant role in Vermont's formation as an independent state. The site includes both the restored home and surrounding grounds with interpretive displays about 18th-century life in the region.
11. Shelburne Museum
EXPANSIVE AMERICAN FOLK ART
Shelburne Museum is a renowned institution located just outside Burlington that houses an exceptional collection of American folk art and artifacts. The museum campus spans 45 acres and features 39 buildings, many of which are historic structures that have been relocated to the site. Visitors can explore everything from impressionist paintings and folk art to textiles, furniture, and even a 220-foot steamboat preserved on the grounds.
12. Shelburne Farms
HISTORIC WORKING FARM ESTATE
Shelburne Farms is a 1,400-acre working farm, forest, and National Historic Landmark just a short drive from Burlington. The estate features a magnificent 1886 country house that now operates as an inn, along with gardens, barns, and walking trails open to the public. Visitors can sample award-winning farmhouse cheddar, interact with farm animals, and learn about sustainable agriculture practices at this educational nonprofit.
13. Shelburne SugarWorks
TRADITIONAL MAPLE SYRUP PRODUCTION
Shelburne SugarWorks offers visitors a chance to experience authentic Vermont maple syrup production up close. Guests can tour the facility to learn about the process of collecting sap from maple trees and transforming it into various grades of syrup and other maple products. The sugarworks provides both educational opportunities and the chance to purchase freshly made maple products directly from the source.
14. Lake Champlain Islands
SCENIC ISLAND GETAWAY
The Lake Champlain Islands form a scenic archipelago extending north from Burlington into the expansive lake. These connected islands offer beautiful beaches, apple orchards, vineyards, and cycling routes with spectacular water views. Visitors can access the islands by car via causeway or connect from the Burlington Bike Path using the bike ferry to South Hero for a memorable day trip or extended stay.
15. Petra Cliffs
INDOOR ROCK CLIMBING CENTER
Petra Cliffs offers indoor rock climbing adventures for climbers of all skill levels in Burlington. The facility features climbing walls, bouldering areas, and fitness equipment designed to provide a complete climbing experience. Visitors can take lessons, join climbing programs, or simply enjoy recreational climbing in a controlled environment regardless of weather conditions outside.