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Burlington, Vermont is the state’s largest city and a vibrant college town that sits proudly on the shores of Lake Champlain with the Adirondack Mountains serving as a stunning backdrop. With a population of approximately 45,000, Burlington offers a winning combination of natural beauty, cultural attractions, and genuine New England charm that draws visitors year after year.
The city serves as Vermont’s economic and cultural hub, home to the University of Vermont (UVM), Champlain College, and the state’s largest hospital, the UVM Medical Center. In 2015, Burlington became the first city in the United States to run entirely on renewable energy, showcasing its commitment to sustainability.
Burlington’s history stretches back to 1783 when the area was first settled. The city was organized as a town in 1785 and later incorporated as a city in 1865. Located on the shores of Lake Champlain, Burlington developed as an important shipping and manufacturing center, benefiting from its position on the waterway connecting the Hudson River to the Canadian border.
The city grew steadily through the 19th and 20th centuries, becoming home to several major manufacturing operations and educational institutions. Today, Burlington’s economy is driven by healthcare, education, tourism, and technology, while maintaining its historic character and small-town feel.
| Era | Year | Significance |
|---|---|---|
| Settled | 1783 | First settlement |
| Organized | 1785 | Town government formed |
| Incorporated | 1865 | Became a city |
| Renewable Energy | 2015 | First 100% renewable city |
Burlington offers an impressive variety of attractions that showcase its unique blend of natural beauty and cultural sophistication.
| Attraction | Type | Highlights |
|---|---|---|
| Church Street Marketplace | Shopping | Pedestrian mall, boutique stores, restaurants |
| Lake Champlain Waterfront | Scenic | Waterfront promenade, boat launches, sunset views |
| University of Vermont | Education | Historic campus, botanical gardens |
| Battery Park | Historic | War memorial, panoramic lake views |
| Echo Lake Aquarium | Museum | Interactive exhibits, Lake Champlain exhibits |
| ** Flynn Center** | Entertainment | Performing arts, concerts, theater |
The Church Street Marketplace is the heart of downtown Burlington—a pedestrian-friendly shopping district perfect for browsing boutique stores, grabbing a coffee, and enjoying people-watching. Just steps away, the waterfront promenade along Lake Champlain provides stunning views and access to parks, boats, and the iconic Burlington Boathouse.
Burlington’s creative spirit shines through its thriving arts scene. The city hosts numerous festivals throughout the year, including the Burlington Jazz Festival and the Vermont Brewers Festival. Art lovers will appreciate the Fleming Museum of Art, while theater enthusiasts can catch performances at the Main Street Landing Film House or the Flynn Center for the Performing Arts.
Burlington’s location provides easy access to outstanding outdoor recreation:
Burlington offers something in every season, but the best times to visit are late spring through early fall.
| Season | Avg. High | Pros | Cons |
|---|---|---|---|
| Spring | 55°F | Blooming flowers, fewer crowds | Muddy trails |
| Summer | 80°F | Warm weather, waterfront activities | Peak tourist season |
| Fall | 60°F | Brilliant foliage colors, mild weather | Crowds during leaf peeping |
| Winter | 30°F | Cozy atmosphere, skiing nearby | Cold temperatures |
Summer brings warm weather perfect for waterfront activities, outdoor dining, and exploring the nearby Green Mountains. The Lake Champlain waterfront comes alive with sailors, kayakers, and visitors enjoying the scenic views.
Fall is spectacular when the foliage turns brilliant shades of orange and gold, creating picture-perfect views from any spot in town. This is arguably the most beautiful time to visit, though expect larger crowds during peak leaf-peeping season.
Winter transforms Burlington into a cozy retreat. Nearby ski resorts like Bolton Valley and Stowe Mountain Resort make it an ideal base for winter sports enthusiasts. The city’s coffee shops, breweries, and restaurants provide the perfect way to warm up after a day in the snow. Winter also brings lower hotel rates compared to the peak summer months.
Here are some of our favorite things to do while visiting Burlington. Take your pick!
The ECHO Lake Aquarium and Science Center sits on Burlington’s waterfront along Lake Champlain , serving as Vermont’s premier science museum and aquarium . The Leahy Center, which houses ECHO, opened in 2003 and has since become one of the most visi…
The Flynn Center for the Performing Arts stands as Vermont’s premier performing arts venue , located in the heart of downtown Burlington. Since opening in 1992, the center has hosted world-class productions ranging from Broadway touring shows to exp…