The Largest city in the American State of Vermont, Burlington is one of those places you can’t help falling in love with. The cosmopolitan city is a beacon of Old New England Charm that blends perfectly with the nature, arts and cultures it offers.
Burlington is located between the Adirondack and Greek mountains, on the shores of Lake Champlain, and is also the most populated city in the state of Vermont. While you are in Burlington, here is a list of things that you most certainly must see and do.
Burlington, Vermont – Points of Interest
The North Beach Park
The North Beach is the largest beach in the Burlington. The whole stretch of the beach is commercialized, which means you can spend hours on end, soaking in on all the fun. The beach doubles as an ideal picnic spot as well. At the beach, you can rent canoes, or kayaks or stand-up paddleboards, easily available at various vendor kiosks. With clean waters and shade trees the North Beach Park is a good place to spend a lazy afternoon. You can also ride bikes to the park and take hikes on cliffs overlooking Lake Champlain.
Lake Champlain
Lake Champlain is Burlington’s natural fresh water lake. It is partially situated across the American-Canadian border, in the province of Quebec in Canada. It is the sixth largest lake in USA. At the lake, you can spend hours fishing, boating or swimming as you please. The lake is beautiful all year long, with pristine clearness in its waters.
Echo Lake Aquarium and Science Centre
It is said that the Echo Lake Aquarium and Science Centre works tirelessly to unveil the magnificence and mysteries of the creatures found in Lake Champlain. It is one of the most-visited attractions and tops the list of things to see in Burlington. This 36,000 square feet facility covers more than a 100 interactive exhibits and some very exciting science education programs. With over 70 species of fish, amphibians and reptiles, there is lots to see and learn at the centre. The most interesting exhibition is that of a legendary 20- foot serpent called Champ, believed to be living in the Lake Champlain.
The Fleming Museum of Art
For art admirers, the Fleming Museum of art is the place to be. Located in the University of Vermont, the vibrant museum features more than 25000 pieces of art and artefacts, from the very beginning of civilization, till today, with a collection panning across all continents. The museum offers its visitors a unique interpretation of the world’s history and cultural heritage.
Church Street Marketplace
The Church Street Marketplace is the most vibrant street in Burlington. Located right in the heart of the city, it is a delightful mix of history and modernity, culture and novelty. The street is home to some of the most historic buildings, various kinds of foods, street entertainers and great shops. A lot many music stores and books stores can also be found here. Church Street Marketplace is indeed the most happening area of Burlington.
Burlington Farmers Market
If you happen to be in Burlington on a Saturday, a trip to the Burlington Farmers Market is a must. The market is the best place to meet various local farmers, cheese makers, bakers, artisans and artists. While here, you can treat yourself to ethnic Moroccan, Japanese, Chinese, Mexican and Jamaican dishes. You can also take home some freshly baked cookies and brownies, maple syrup, pickles and cider among other things.
The Ethan Allen Homestead Museum
Ethan Allen is considered to be the most popular folk hero of Vermont and was one of the early inhabitants of Burlington. He played a vital role in the history of Vermont, which was then known as New Hampshire Grants. A visit to the homestead opens a page from history books; you can glance into the times he lived in and see many artefacts from his time.
Burlington City Arts Centre
Burlington City Arts Centre is the home and heart of the contemporary art scene of Vermont. Established in 1981, the centre was created with a goal to make arts available and accessible to people from all strata of society, regardless of their socio-economic status. The Battery Park free concert series was one of the first activities organized by the centre, which still remains incredibly popular. The Centre works tirelessly to encourage meaningful art experiences and also serves as a residence for in-house artists.
Battery Park
Overlooking Lake Champlain, is a public park known as Battery Park. This 14 acre park includes a playground and various monuments. Battery Park has attained popularity due to its unobstructed view above Burlington harbour, making it a popular spot for observing the 4th of July fireworks.
Burlington Brewery Tour
When in Burlington, take a day off from sightseeing and instead, take half a day to make a tour of the best of Burlington’s breweries. Taste world class beers manufactured in Vermont breweries and enjoy a sumptuous beer-focused meal at one of the restaurants. Bring back some beer souvenirs.
Lake Champlain Chocolates
Anyone who’s ever visited Burlington swears by Lake Champlain Chocolates. The aroma of the chocolate factory lingers even when you are miles away. Take a tour of the chocolate factory, and learn about the process of chocolate making. Sample some chocolates and bring some back home.
The best time to visit Burlington is during spring and summer. The city streets come to life with beautiful celebrations of festivals and outdoor concerts. The city oozes vibrant colours and a charm that stay with you, long after you leave it.
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