The Ultimate Guide to Summer in Burlington, Vermont

Nestled on the eastern shore of Lake Champlain, Burlington, Vermont transforms into a vibrant hub of activity during the summer months. Vermont’s largest city offers a perfect blend of outdoor adventures, cultural experiences, and local charm. Here’s your guide to the best summer attractions in Burlington.

Waterfront Wonders

1. Lake Champlain

The crown jewel of Burlington, Lake Champlain offers endless opportunities for summer fun. Rent a kayak or paddleboard from local outfitters to explore the serene waters, or take a scenic cruise for panoramic views of the Adirondack and Green Mountains. For a memorable evening, book a sunset sail on the Spirit of Ethan Allen, featuring dinner and dancing on the lake.

2. Waterfront Park

This expansive green space along the lake is Burlington’s summer social center. Enjoy a picnic on the lawn or simply relax and watch boats sail by. The park hosts numerous events throughout the summer, including festivals and outdoor concerts. Plus, it’s an ideal spot to watch the sunset over Lake Champlain, painting the sky in vibrant oranges, pinks, and purples. 

Outdoor Adventures

3. Burlington Bike Path

Stretching 8 miles along the Lake Champlain shoreline, the Burlington Bike Path is perfect for cycling, jogging, or leisurely walks. Rent a bike from a local shop and pedal your way through scenic parks and beaches. For a longer adventure, continue onto the Island Line Trail and cross the lake via bike ferry on the Colchester Causeway.

4. North Beach

Burlington’s largest beach offers a sandy shoreline, swimming areas, and facilities for barbecues and picnics. Enjoy beach volleyball, water sports, or simply soak up the sun. The adjacent campground is ideal for those wanting an extended outdoor stay. For those looking to explore further, a few miles north along the bike path lies Leddy Beach, a quieter alternative with a more secluded feel. This hidden gem offers a peaceful retreat with its own sandy shore, picnic areas, and beautiful views of the lake, making it worth the short trip for those seeking a less crowded beach experience.

5. Oakledge Park

Oakledge Park offers a variety of attractions for nature lovers and outdoor enthusiasts. This 45-acre park features rocky beaches, wooded areas and open fields, making it perfect for hiking, picnicking or just relaxing by the lake. It’s home to Burlington’s only universally accessible tree house, which allows visitors to enjoy elevated views of Lake Champlain. The park also features tennis courts, a playground, and a popular stand-up paddleboard rental location. With its combination of recreational facilities and natural beauty, Oakledge Park offers a tranquil escape just minutes from downtown Burlington.

Cultural Experiences

6. Church Street Marketplace

In the heart of downtown Burlington, this open-air pedestrian street buzzes with energy. Browse unique boutiques, dine at farm-to-table restaurants, and enjoy street performers. Don’t miss the chance to savor a scoop of Ben & Jerry’s directly from its hometown, and check out the site of the original shop.

7. Flynn Center & BCA

For an evening of entertainment, catch a show at the historic Flynn Center. This beautifully restored Art Deco theater hosts a variety of performances, from Broadway shows to concerts and comedy acts. Check the summer schedule for special events and festivals. Complementing the Flynn’s offerings, Burlington City Arts (BCA) enriches the city’s cultural landscape with contemporary art exhibitions, classes, and events. Their main gallery on Church Street showcases the work of local and international artists, while their summer concert series in City Hall Park brings free live music to the heart of downtown. Between the Flynn and BCA, Burlington offers a colorful arts and culture scene.

Historical and Educational Sites

8. ECHO, Leahy Center for Lake Champlain

This interactive science center and aquarium is perfect for curious minds of all ages. Explore hands-on exhibits about Lake Champlain’s ecology and history, see live animal displays, and learn about environmental conservation. The building itself, with its innovative green design, is a fascinating attraction.

9. Shelburne Museum

Located a short drive from Burlington, this unique museum showcases American folk art and artifacts in 39 historic buildings on 45 acres. Highlights include a 220-foot steamboat, a lighthouse, and a round barn. Plan to spend at least half a day exploring the museum’s extensive collections and beautiful grounds. During the summer, the Shelburne Museum comes alive with its popular outdoor concert series, featuring a diverse lineup of national and regional acts performing on the museum’s scenic grounds. These concerts blend music, art, and history, creating memorable summer evenings under the stars.

Local Flavors and Craft Brews

10. Burlington Farmers Market

Every Saturday, local farmers and artisans gather at 345 Pine Street to showcase Vermont’s finest products. Browse stalls offering fresh produce and flowers, artisanal cheeses and maple syrups, handcrafted items, and baked goods and interesting snacks. Enjoy live music and sample local delicacies as you experience the community’s vibrant food culture. This weekend staple is also a top spot for dog lovers.

11. Craft Breweries

Burlington’s craft beer scene is a thriving, family-friendly affair. Take a self-guided tour of local favorites like Foam Brewers, known for their innovative IPAs, Switchback Brewing Company, famous for their unfiltered ale, and Zero Gravity Craft Brewery, offering a wide range of styles. Many breweries feature outdoor patios, full menus, and live music that make for a perfect summer sipping experience.

12. Creemees

No summer visit to Burlington is complete without trying a creemee, Vermont’s signature soft-serve ice cream. Creamier and richer than typical soft-serve, creemees come in classic flavors like vanilla and chocolate, but the true local specialty is maple. Visit spots like Burlington Bay Market & Café or Little Gordo Creemee Stand to try Vermont’s signature summer treat.

13. South End Get Down

The South End Get Down is a beloved summer event that celebrates Burlington’s eclectic South End Arts District. Held on Friday evenings throughout the summer, the festival transforms Pine Street into a fun-filled block party. The Get Down features an eclectic mix of local food trucks, from wood-fired pizzas and tacos and vegan options and—you guessed it—creemees. Live music fills the air, with performances by local bands and DJs spanning a variety of genres. Attendees can browse artisan markets featuring handmade crafts and artwork from local creators. With its focus on local food, music and art, South End Get Down embodies the creative spirit of Burlington’s thriving arts community and offers a unique way to experience the city’s culture on a summer evening.

Burlington’s small town charm comes with a big variety of outdoor recreation, cultural experiences, and culinary delights, perfect for summer visitors. Keep in mind that this list is merely a sample of all the great places and activities Burlington has to offer. The city is brimming with hidden gems, local favorites, and seasonal events that aren’t mentioned here, inviting you to explore beyond these suggestions and discover your own Burlington treasures. Pack your sunscreen and sense of adventure—Burlington awaits with endless possibilities for summer fun!