Burlington, Vermont: 10 Best Things to Do Nearby
10 Fun Things to Do Near Burlington, Vermont
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| Stroll Church Street, bike the lakefront, taste local farm flavors, and chase Lake Champlain sunsets on a Burlington, Vermont getaway. |
If you're looking for fun things to do near Burlington, Vermont, you're in for a treat. This lively city in Chittenden County has a little bit of everything: lake views, local food, outdoor adventures, artsy spots, and easy day trips. Whether you're planning a weekend getaway or just passing through, Burlington makes it easy to fill your days with memorable stops.
What I like most about Burlington is how relaxed it feels. You can spend the morning by the water, grab lunch downtown, and end the day watching a sunset that looks almost too pretty to be real. If that sounds like your kind of trip, here are 10 great places and activities to add to your list.
1. Walk and Shop on Church Street Marketplace in Burlington, Vermont
If you're wondering where to start, Church Street Marketplace is it. This pedestrian-only downtown area is full of local shops, restaurants, street performers, and cafés. It's one of the most popular things to do in Burlington, Vermont, and for good reason.
The vibe here is easygoing and fun. You can grab a coffee, wander into bookstores, pick up handmade gifts, or just people-watch for a while. On a nice day, it feels like the whole city comes out to enjoy it.
- Great for dining outdoors
- Easy spot for shopping local
- Perfect for a casual stroll
If you're the kind of traveler who likes to “just wander and see what happens,” this is your place.
2. Take in the Views at Waterfront Park and Lake Champlain
You really can't visit Burlington without spending time by Lake Champlain. Waterfront Park gives you wide-open lake views, walking paths, green space, and one of the best sunset spots in town.
There’s something calming about being here. The water stretches out so far it almost feels like the ocean, just without the salty air. I’ve always thought it’s the kind of place where even a short walk can reset your whole mood.
Bring a snack, sit on a bench, and slow down for a bit. Sometimes the simplest travel moments end up being the best ones.
3. Ride the Burlington Bike Path
For an easy outdoor activity, head to the Burlington Greenway, often called the Burlington Bike Path. This scenic trail runs along the waterfront and gives you amazing views of Lake Champlain, the Adirondack Mountains, and Burlington’s shoreline.
You don’t need to be a hardcore cyclist to enjoy it. A relaxed ride here is more like a rolling sightseeing tour than a workout. You can rent a bike in town and go at your own pace.
- Family-friendly route
- Beautiful photo stops along the way
- Good for biking, walking, or jogging
If the weather is nice, this is one of the best outdoor things to do near Burlington.
4. Explore ECHO, Leahy Center for Lake Champlain
Traveling with kids? Or just curious about nature and science? ECHO, Leahy Center for Lake Champlain is a fun and hands-on stop right by the waterfront.
This place focuses on the lake, local wildlife, and the natural history of the region. You'll find exhibits, interactive displays, and live animals. It’s the sort of attraction that keeps things interesting because you’re not just looking at stuff behind glass the whole time.
On rainy days especially, ECHO can be a lifesaver. Think of it as a break from the weather that still feels like part of the adventure.
5. Tour the Shelburne Museum
Just a short drive from Burlington, in nearby Shelburne, you’ll find the Shelburne Museum. This is not your average museum. It’s spread across a large property with historic buildings, folk art, quilts, paintings, and even a real steamboat.
That mix is what makes it memorable. One minute you're looking at American art, and the next you're walking through a historic structure that feels like stepping into another era.
If you like places with personality, put this one high on your list. It’s one of the most unique things to do near Burlington, Vermont.
6. Visit Shelburne Farms for Trails, Views, and Local Cheese
Another must-see near Burlington is Shelburne Farms. This working farm and education center sits on a gorgeous property with walking trails, gardens, and stunning views of Lake Champlain.
It’s a peaceful place to spend a few hours, and yes, the cheese is worth talking about. If you enjoy farm-to-table food, open landscapes, and historic buildings, this spot checks all the boxes.
The grounds feel almost storybook-like, especially in fall. It’s the kind of place where you start by saying, “We’ll just stop for a little bit,” and end up staying half the day.
7. Hike Mount Philo State Park
If you want a classic Vermont view without a brutal all-day hike, Mount Philo State Park is a great pick. It's about a short drive south of Burlington and offers sweeping views over Lake Champlain and the surrounding valleys.
You can hike up or, in season, drive to the top. That makes it a nice option for different energy levels and travel styles. Not every day needs to be a major adventure, right?
At the summit, the view opens up in a way that feels like a reward. On a clear day, you can see for miles. Bring water, wear decent shoes, and definitely bring your camera.
8. Spend Time at North Beach
Yes, Burlington has a beach. North Beach is a popular warm-weather spot for swimming, relaxing, and enjoying the lake. It’s close to downtown, which makes it easy to fit into your day.
If you're visiting in summer, this is a fun way to cool off. You can spread out a towel, watch the boats, and enjoy a slower pace for a while. It has that easy vacation feeling people chase all year.
- Good for families and casual beachgoers
- Nice swimming area
- Close to other Burlington attractions
Sometimes people don’t expect a Vermont beach day, which is exactly why it feels like such a pleasant surprise.
9. Visit the Ben & Jerry’s Factory in Waterbury
If you don’t mind a drive, one of the most famous day trips from Burlington is the Ben & Jerry’s Factory in Waterbury. This iconic Vermont stop is fun, easy, and delicious.
You can take a factory tour, learn about the brand, and of course sample ice cream. There’s also the flavor graveyard, which is quirky in the best way. It’s a little silly, a little nostalgic, and very Vermont.
Let’s be honest: sometimes a travel plan should include ice cream on purpose.
10. Sip Local at a Burlington Area Brewery
The Burlington beer scene is a big draw, especially for craft beer fans. There are several breweries in and around the city where you can try local flavors and relax after a busy day of exploring.
Places like Zero Gravity, Foam Brewers, and other nearby favorites offer a laid-back setting and a taste of what makes Vermont’s craft drink scene so popular. Even if you’re not a beer expert, tasting a local brew can be a fun part of the trip.
It’s a nice way to wind down, swap stories from the day, and soak in the local atmosphere. If you ask me, every good travel day deserves a solid ending.
Final Thoughts on Things to Do Near Burlington, Vermont
From lakeside walks to mountain views, museums, farms, beaches, and sweet treats, there are so many great things to do near Burlington, Vermont. That’s what makes this area special. It gives you a little bit of everything without feeling rushed or overwhelming.
You can keep your trip simple or pack in a lot. Either way, Burlington has a way of making visitors feel at home. And honestly, that’s a big part of why people come back.
Have you been to Burlington, Vermont? Which stop would you add to this list? Share this post with a friend who’s planning a Vermont getaway, and drop your favorite Burlington-area activity in the comments. I’d love to hear what made your trip memorable.
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