Why Go to Burlington, VT
YOUR DESTINATION AT A GLANCE
Burlington is small, quirky and full of personality. Vermont's largest city sits on the shores of Lake Champlain, and it has a creative, cosmopolitan feel that goes well beyond its size. The car-free Church Street Marketplace buzzes with local shops, restaurants and street performers, and the area's breweries make some of the most sought-after beer in New England.
Two colleges keep the energy young, and live music is part of the city's soul; it's where the jam band Phish got its start, and they're still beloved here. Burlington also makes a great base for exploring. In nearby Shelburne, walk the lakeside grounds of Shelburne Farms and explore the eclectic Shelburne Museum, where kids can climb aboard a beautifully restored century-old steamboat. Head into the Green Mountains for hiking and birdwatching, and stop at the Ben and Jerry's Factory in Waterbury for a tour and a scoop.
Burlington is gorgeous in every season, especially during fall foliage. I'll plan a Vermont getaway with cozy inns, scenic drives and plenty of local food.
BEST FOR
Lakefront travelers, cyclists, foodies and foliage seekers
BEST MONTHS
June–September and late September–October
EXPLORE
Start in the central visitor district, then group nearby attractions to reduce driving time. Check individual opening hours and accessibility before visiting.
SIX18 SIGNATURE DESTINATION GUIDE
Burlington, VT
North America › Northeast › USA › Vermont
Lake Champlain sunsets and Vermont’s creative spirit.
Lake & River
Outdoor
University
Craft Beer
SIX18 INSIDER TIP
Rent a bike for the waterfront route, then return downtown for dinner and a Lake Champlain sunset.
Experiences Worth Exploring
THINGS TO DO
Come in the late afternoon to transition easily into dinner.
Church Street Marketplace
A pedestrian shopping and dining district forms the lively heart of downtown Burlington.
Stay for sunset when skies are clear.
Waterfront Park
Lakeside lawns and paths offer wide views across Lake Champlain toward the Adirondack Mountains.
A strong choice for a rainy or chilly day.
ECHO Leahy Center for Lake Champlain
Interactive science and ecology exhibits introduce families to the Lake Champlain watershed.
Watch for other path users and check seasonal bike rentals.
Burlington Bike Path
A scenic paved route follows the lake and connects waterfront parks and beaches.
Check gallery hours; many studios have limited opening days.
South End Arts District
Studios, galleries and creative businesses give Burlington’s South End its distinct character.
A locally inspired boutique hotel close to Church Street and the Lake Champlain waterfront.
Hotel Vermont
Downtown Burlington
Boutique · City
A full-service downtown hotel with easy access to the lakefront and city center.
Hilton Burlington Lake Champlain
Downtown waterfront
City
A convenient lakeside-area hotel near the bike path, dining and ferry connections.
Courtyard Burlington Harbor
Downtown waterfront
Value
A countryside-style spa resort a short drive from Burlington and surrounding attractions.
The Essex Resort & Spa
Essex
Family
An all-suite lodging option suited to longer stays and travelers wanting extra room.
Green Mountain Suites Hotel
South Burlington
Family · Value
A good-value hotel close to downtown and the lake.
Hotel Champlain Burlington
South End
City · Value
A Victorian mansion inn with lake views, close to downtown.
Willard Street Inn
Hill Section
Boutique
A historic lakeside mansion inn on a working farm south of Burlington.
The Inn at Shelburne Farms
Shelburne
Boutique
A central, good-value hotel near Church Street Marketplace.
Hilton Garden Inn Burlington Downtown
Downtown
City · Value
A classic family resort on Lake Champlain with boating and golf.
Basin Harbor Resort
Vergennes
Family
Curated Accommodations
WHERE TO STAY
November in Burlington, VT
High 45°F · Low 30°F · Rain 3 in
Shorter days make museums and heritage visits practical; plan around weather. For a destination-specific November plan, consider Burlington waterfront.
Summer supports lake activities and festivals, while autumn brings vivid foliage. Winter is cold and can be appealing for nearby ski trips; spring conditions may be wet and muddy.
Best Times to Visit Burlington, VT
WHEN TO GO
Where to Dine
DINING
06
Rental Cars and Mountain Trips
A car is helpful for Stowe, ski resorts and rural attractions; prepare for winter driving and changing mountain weather.
05
Ferries and Lake Crossings
Lake Champlain ferries connect selected Vermont and New York locations. Service and vehicle reservations vary by route.
04
Burlington Bike Path
The waterfront cycling path offers scenic Lake Champlain access. Follow trail etiquette and seasonal conditions.
03
Downtown Walking
Church Street Marketplace, the waterfront and nearby neighborhoods are well suited to walking. Winter sidewalks may be icy.
02
Green Mountain Transit
Local bus routes serve Burlington and surrounding areas on published schedules. Verify stops and operating days.
01
Burlington Airport
BTV serves the region with road transfers to downtown and nearby lake communities.
Burlington International Airport (BTV) is close to town. Downtown is easy on foot, with cycling on waterfront routes; a car helps with excursions to Shelburne and beyond.
Getting Around Burlington, VT