Burlington

Vermont's largest city sits on the shores of Lake Champlain and offers a vibrant downtown with local breweries, farm-to-table restaurants, and a progressive cultural scene centered around the University of Vermont. The waterfront and surrounding Green Mountains provide outdoor recreation and stunning natural beauty.

Things to do

• Church Street Marketplace — A pedestrian mall in downtown Burlington lined with local shops, street performers, and outdoor cafes stretching six blocks from the waterfront.
• Lake Champlain Waterfront — The scenic lakeside promenade offers walking paths, beaches, and boat launch access with views of the Adirondacks and opportunities for swimming or kayaking.
• ECHO Science Center — An interactive museum focused on Lake Champlain's ecosystem and natural history, housed in a building overlooking the water on the Burlington waterfront.
• University of Vermont Campus — A historic hilltop campus with 19th-century architecture, scenic views, and cultural events including lectures and performances open to visitors.
• Cold Hollow Cider Mill — A local cidery and cider bar located just outside Burlington where you can taste Vermont-made ciders and hard ciders in a rustic setting.
• Burlington City Arts Center — A downtown gallery space showcasing contemporary works by local and regional artists with rotating exhibitions and community events.

Food to try

• Vermont Cheddar Burger — A signature dish featuring locally-sourced beef topped with sharp aged Vermont cheddar, often served at downtown restaurants like Bluebird Barbecue.
• Farm-to-table Maple-glazed Root Vegetables — A seasonal side dish highlighting Vermont produce with local maple syrup glaze, exemplifying Burlington's agricultural heritage and sustainable dining ethos.
• Lake Champlain Perch — Fresh whitefish caught from the lake and prepared simply, often pan-seared or fried, showcasing the region's fresh water fishing tradition.
• Brewpub IPA Experience — Burlington's craft beer scene, particularly India Pale Ales from local breweries like Magic Hat and Hill Farmstead, is central to the city's food and social culture.
• Vermont Apple Pie — A classic dessert using apples from local orchards, often served à la mode with Vermont vanilla ice cream at local bakeries and diners.

Local customs & good to know

• Progressive Community Values — Burlington is known for its politically engaged, environmentally conscious residents; be prepared for conversations about sustainability, local politics, and community activism.
• University Influence — The University of Vermont dominates the local culture and calendar, with students comprising a significant portion of the population and driving many cultural events and the young, educated atmosphere.
• Four-Season Recreation — Locals take outdoor activities seriously year-round—hiking and biking in summer and fall, skiing nearby in winter—so pack accordingly and expect recommendations for seasonal activities.
• Local Food Pride — Vermonters are deeply proud of their local food producers including dairy, maple syrup, and craft beverages; visiting farms, creameries, and breweries is encouraged and expected.