Burlington, Vermont

Things To Do in Burlington, Vermont

Burlington is the largest city in Vermont and it still feels like a small town (Population around 215,000).  We were driving up to Montreal and I wanted to cross Vermont off my bucket list since we would be so close and try some Vermont maple syrup.

Where to Eat:

Handy's Lunch
A small diner where everything is made to order.  Handy's has a large horseshoe counter, friendly staff and a great breakfast.  I read multiple reviews on the restaurant and couldn't wait to try pancakes with maple syrup.  The pancakes with syrup were delicious and the sausage packed a lot of flavor.  Breakfast for two under $25.
74 Maple St, Burlington, VT 05401

Uncommon Grounds Coffee and Tea
Located on Church Street this local coffee shop serves up a tasty maple latte.
42 Church St, Burlington, VT 05401

Things to Do:

Lake Champlain
Lake Champlain is located a few blocks to the west of Burlington and separates Vermont from New York.  There is a giant waterfront and in the warmer months you can take a ferry, cruise, kayak.  There is also a well maintained bike path.

Church Street Marketplace
Church Street Marketplace is a small town main street with many shops and restaurants.  The street is closed off to cars and a great place to walk around, grab coffee, and find unique shops.  Many parking garages make parking easy and on a Saturday the garage we parking in was free.
Church Street, Burlington, VT 05401

Maple Sugar Houses
A sugar house is where sap is boiled down into maple syrup.  There are many sugar houses in Vermont and they offer tastings, tours, events and activities.  If traveling with pets, many of the sugar houses are pet friendly.
Palmer's Sugar House (20 minute drive) www.palmersugarhouse.com
Branon's West View Maples (40 minute drive) www.branonvtorganicmaple.com
Morse Farm Maple Sugarworks (45 minute drive) www.morsefarm.com

Tip 1* All locations are walkable in downtown Burlington except for the sugar houses

Tip 2* If looking to buy budget-friendly Vermont maple syrup, try the local grocery store (they sell some in cans) or the sugar houses.  I found that the shops on Church Street, while fun to browse, were over charging.