Things To Do In Burlington In The Winter

Burlington, VT is one of my favorite cities to visit. It frequently finds itself on many “Best Of” lists, and after spending time there, it is easy to see why. Burlington has a lively downtown scene, a thriving art community, an array of dining choices, and bars featuring local live music. The close proximity to multiple ski resorts makes it easy to spend the day on the slopes snowboarding or skiing! It’s a family friendly town that hosts multiple activities for kids too!

Here are few things to check out while visiting Burlington:

Shelburne Farms

I highly recommend a visit here. It’s my number one choice of places to see. The grounds are absolutely magnificent. The farm covers 1,400 acres and is located on the shores of Lake Champlain. Shelburne Farm provides learning experiences for a sustainable future by partnering with the community, and hosts events year round. In the winter you can take a horse drawn sleigh ride, take a class and learn about the animals, or even learn how to make bread and butter. Check their calendar for the many choices offered.

Cross Country Skiing, Ice Skating, Sledding
There are many parks in Burlington that offer groomed ski trails, ice rinks for skating, and hills for sledding. What’s more fun that playing outside in the winter? And, these are all free!

Church Street Marketplace
The Church Street Marketplace is an open air pedestrian mall in the heart of downtown Burlington. The streets are cobblestone and it’s lit up beautifully at night! It’s a fun place to hang out with many shops, restaurants, and galleries to stop by.

If you like books, be sure to pop into Crow’s Bookshop. They offer a great selection, and a cozy atmosphere, which is a refreshing change if you’re used to the mega bookstores in most cities.

Need a chocolate fix? Lake Champlain Chocolates will hook you up! The chocolates are made locally and you can even visit the factory!

If that’s not enough to feed your sweet tooth, head over to My Little Cupcake. They specialize in delicious mini cupcakes and have a ridiculous amount of flavors to choose from! It’s hard to decide on just one, so plan on trying a variety. They are located at 217 College Street, which isn’t too far from the Church Street Marketplace.

For real food, try out Sweetwaters. They have a full bar, and extensive menu with a large amount of gluten free options. The restaurant is housed in a building from the 1880’s and still retains some original architectural details. Former bank vaults now function as walk-in coolers in the lowest level of the restaurant.

Burlington Art Scene

I was really impressed with the art scene in Burlington. Art is everywhere, so you will not have to go far to find it! If you happen to be in Burlington on the first Friday of the month, check out the community wide First Friday Art event. It’s a great way to check out a variety of local artists in one night. You can also check the Vermont Art Guide to find out about current openings and exhibitions.

I was lucky enough to be introduced to two very talented Burlington artists, that were gracious enough to let me wander through their studios while they were working.

Check out the artwork of:

Duane Albro at Tao Woodworking. My favorites were the SUP’s. They are absolutely gorgeous! And, when you stop by, make sure you say hello to Chomsky the St. Bernard. He usually is hanging  out in the shop!

Bruce R. MacDonald at HAVOC. His metal wall sculptures are on stainless panels. Holographic effects create a feeling of movement through out the pieces. To see the visual depth and illusion of the art, check out these videos!