A Radical Guide to A Weekend in Burlington

Burlington is an adventure waiting to be unleashed. Its natural beauty, seen in the scenic landscapes, the northeastern beaches, and the hike-worthy mountains, blends seamlessly with its city vibes - lively markets, exceptional eateries, and art scenes. If you’re planning a weekend in Burlington, you’ll need an agenda that ensures an immersive experience, reminding you why Vermont's largest city is fondly nicknamed "Queen City". So, here we go!

Visit ECHO, Leahy Center for Lake Champlain

Kickstart your weekend in Burlington with a visit to the ECHO, Leahy Center for Lake Champlain. This innovative science and nature museum wins hearts with its 70+ species of fish, amphibians, invertebrates and reptiles, and 100 interactive exhibits that specifically cater to families and kids.

Explore Church Street Marketplace

Make your way towards the historic Church Street Marketplace. This pedestrian-friendly open air mall is set in the heart of the city, offering a host of shopping options boasting local Vermont crafts to high-end boutiques. The marketplace offers a myriad of dining options from casual cafés, gourmet eateries to ethnic cuisine restaurants.

Climb Mount Philo

Next, unleash the adventurer in you and climb to the top of Mount Philo. Designated as Vermont's first state park in 1924, hike the 1-mile trail to the top and reward yourself with breathtaking views of the Lake Champlain Valley and the Adirondack Mountains of New York.

Traverse the Burlington Bike Path

If cycling is more your thing, don’t leave out the Burlington Bike Path. This waterside trail spans 8 miles, presenting an exciting way to see Burlington’s sights, including six waterfront parks, various beaches, and the bustling Burlington Waterfront.

Discover Art at the Burlington City Arts Center

For aesthetics lovers, a trip to the Burlington City Arts Center is a must. This museum showcases contemporary art exhibits on a rotating basis, offering the true essence of Burlington’s artistic sector. Don’t forget to drop by the Clay Studio, where you can create your own art piece.

Relax at the Waterfront Park

As the sun begins to set, what can be better than relaxing at Waterfront Park? Here, you can enjoy panoramic views of Lake Champlain, take a leisurely sunset walk or just sit around enjoying street musicians play some delightful tunes.

Dine at the Farmhouse Tap & Grill

Round up your day with a delightful dinner at Farmhouse Tap & Grill, serving the best of Vermont’s farm to table cuisine. The menu, dominated by local farm-fresh ingredients and an extensive beer list, vouches for a memorable gastronomic experience.

Sunday Farmers Market

Give a great start to Sunday by exploring the Farmer's Market. Local vendors here offer everything from garden-fresh products and homemade food goods to crafts and prepared foods.

Cruise on Lake Champlain

After this, a Ferry Cruise on Lake Champlain beckons. Enjoy the awe-inspiring views of the Adirondack and Green Mountains while having a splendid time on the lake.

Visit the Magic Hat Brewing Company

Wrap up your weekend endeavor by visiting Magic Hat Brewing Company. Explore the Artifactory, a unique spot full of oddities and artifacts, sample out some of their best brews, and take a self-guided tour of the Magic Hat brewery. A weekend in Burlington can be so much more than just a break - it can be an adventure, a gourmet trail, a trip down creativity, and a fun-filled exploration!