Skip to main content
Lark Hotel's Guide to Burlington
Lark Hotel's Guide to Burlington View Guide for Burlington

Take a Look

Includes

Things to do • Eat + Drink • Adventure • Sights + Sounds

A cyclist foot on a bike pedal with the sun setting behind in Burlington, VT
The Board Artisan at Blind Tiger Burlington, VT
A wooden sign advertises an outdoor gear store in Burlington, VT on a bustling street
A full drum set with cymbals and tom-toms on a stage in Burlington, VT

Burlington, Vermont

With all the charm of small town New England, Burlington offers an endless variety of things to do. Stroll through Church Street Marketplace with its many shops, restaurants and galleries, or explore the beautiful Champlain Islands. All the while, enjoy breathtaking views of Lake Champlain and the Adirondack Mountains just out your window. Discover Stowe, Smugglers Notch, and other iconic destinations all within an hour drive of the city. No matter where the day takes you,  Burlington is the perfect homebase for your Vermont adventure.

A wide view of a church in Burlington, VT surrounded by brick buildings and trees
A panoramic view of the Burlington, VT waterfront with a mountain in the background
Two people on a dock admire a sunset over Lake Champlain in Burlington, VT

What to Do

pin color
Deep City

Deep City Under a mile

Looking for a dining experience that incorporates local ingredients inspired by the seasons, and uses their very own wood-fired grill as the centerpiece of their dishes? Welcome to Deep City, located on the scenic shores of Lake Champlain in Burlington, curated by Chef Christina Scifo. Find dishes that embrace the “comfort food” style, but with an elevated twist and a touch of surprise. Try their Maple Glazed Pork Chop made with braised kale with apple and jalapeño, sweet potato hush puppies, and fennel cream pureé.

Hen of the Wood

Hen of the Wood Under a mile

Located just a short walk towards Lake Champlain from the Church Street Marketplace, this highly acclaimed eatery features daily menus highlighting local, seasonal fare, and craft cocktails served up with an understated elegance. Its down-to-earth decor and simple yet creative menu make this restaurant a must stop on your Burlington, VT culinary experience.

Leunig's

Leunig's Under a mile

A little bit of Paris in Burlington? We think mais oui! Located right in the mix of downtown, Leunig’s Bistro & Cafe offers classic French fare for lunch and dinner, and also features a lively bar for all the gimlets, champagne, and French wines you can imagine. Try their classic Escargot Maison or their Graham Cracker Crusted Duck Frites. Bon appétit! 

Pizzeria Verita

Pizzeria Verita Under a mile

Because a wood-fired pizza and some cocktails to escape the cold is always a good idea. Go classic or adventurous–whichever strikes your style most–and don’t forget to order a yummy antipasti to go along with it.

Stone Soup

Stone Soup Under a mile

At Stone Soup, it’s anything but the usual. With their weekly changing menu that embraces local flavors in a homey, relaxed space, there’s always something new to enjoy in the heart of Burlington. Find daily soups, elevated spins on classic favorite sandwiches, and of course, coffee.

Truck Stop

Truck Stop

From May to September, experience the Truck Stop where all the best food trucks of Burlington pile in and serve up all their top favorite grub. Consider it like an awesome block party where you can invite the whole crew and eat the best of Vermont until the sun goes down.

ArtsRiot

ArtsRiot A short walk away

A go-to venue for art you can see, hear, and taste. ArtsRiot is a must-see performance venue, gallery & cafe featuring New American eats, craft cocktails & local beer.

Burlington Beer Co.

Burlington Beer Co.

“Where fermentation meets imagination.” Welcome to Burlington Beer Co.  where brewers are constantly finding new ways to experiment and shake things up. Why go classic when you can go wild, instead? Discover some of their most exciting pours like their Double IPA “It’s Tough Being a Wizard” with notes of papaya, nectarines, orange zest and dank cannabis. Or their “Study Hall” Coffee Maple Amber Ale, with notes of maple, milk chocolate, and French-roast coffee.

Foam Brewers

Foam Brewers Under a mile

It’s no surprise that Burlington is home to some amazing breweries. And Foam is definitely among the top favs. From juicy IPAs to crisp lagers, you’ll find a solid lineup of draughts at Foam, plus charcuterie, dips and snacks to enhance the experience. Don’t forget to grab some cans to go.

Shelburne Vineyard

Shelburne Vineyard 7.3 miles

A winery in Vermont might sound like bucking the system–hello breweries!--but that’s what makes Shelburne Vineyard such a gem. Producing cold weather climate wine is a bold vision in the wine industry, but owner Ken Albert and his head winegrower Ethan Joseph have embraced that challenge, becoming local pioneers. Don’t expect to find traditional bottles during your visit, either. Come with an open mind, a curious palate, and embrace something new.

The Archives

The Archives Under a mile

Part vintage arcade, part beer and cocktail bar, The Archives is a spot in town that’s always a delicious good time. Find them in Burlington and Winooski and bring your A game.

The Whiskey Room

The Whiskey Room Under a mile

Whiskey. Beer. Cocktails. Tapas. It’s everything you’ll find at Whiskey Room in Burlington, plus a relaxing space where everyone is inspired to feel like themselves. From locally made bourbon to Irish whiskey, and Blue Cheese & Bacon Chips to Chicken Curry Poutine, you’ll find it all right here.

Zero Gravity

Zero Gravity Under a mile

A collection of staple brews are always available at Zero Gravity–from their classic Green State Lager to their Cone Head IPA–but don’t forget to grab one of their rotating selects to mix things up. Be sure to check out their Beer Hall, featuring delicious coffee that’s served through every afternoon, plus snackies like bread and butter, dirty fries with crispy pork, and loaded sandwiches. Did we mention their awesome events? Yep, they’ve got that, too.

Kru Coffee

Kru Coffee Kru Coffee

From classic brekkie sandwiches like a bacon, egg & cheese, to fresh baked pastries and coffee all day, you’ll find it all at Kru. Pop in before hitting the slopes or for an afternoon pick-me-up while roaming around downtown looking for the best maple syrup and classic flannel.

Vivid Coffee

Vivid Coffee Under a mile

At Vivid Coffee, their focus is to produce coffee with an elevated twist. Think notes of chocolate, toasted almond, nougat. Anything that takes a regular cup o’ joe and kicks it up a notch. Located in the heart of Cherry Street, pop in for a cup and be sure to grab a bag to go!

Bolton Valley Backcountry

Bolton Valley Backcountry 17.7 miles

Explore winter in Burlington in a new way with a backcountry excursion at Bolton Valley. Go beyond the lifts and discover what makes snowy excursions in Vermont your new favorite place to embrace adventure. All guided tours and lessons–whether you’re choosing backcountry skiing or splitboarding–include lift tickets!

Burley Axe Throwing

Burley Axe Throwing 1.2 miles

Ready. Set. Throw an axe! At Burley Axe Throwing, it’s all about doing something fun and different, while embracing your inner lumberjack. Experience a rush of adrenaline while enjoying local beers, mead and cider.

Burlington Bike Path

Burlington Bike Path Under a mile

Find over eight miles of smooth paved paths with scenic views of Lake Champlain that remains open throughout the seasons. Considered a local gem in Burlington, this path also features a bike ferry that can take visitors to the Champlain islands. Whether you’re more of a leisure traveler taking in the sights or are looking for an adrenaline rush on two wheels, this path is a must-visit. And if you’re looking for a bike rental, consider Local Motion or Outdoor Gear Exchange!

Address

1 Main Street Address for Burlington Bike Path

Cruise Lake Champlain

Cruise Lake Champlain Under a mile

Looking to get out on the water? Offering public and private cruises, Cruise Lake Champlain has you covered for your next Lake Champlain adventure.

Ethan Allen Park

Ethan Allen Park 2.9 miles

Discover Burlington’s highest point at Ethan Allen Park’s 40-foot stone tower that overlooks Lake Champlain and features views of the Green Mountains and the Adirondacks.

Mt. Philo

Mt. Philo 10.8 miles

At almost 1000 feet up, Mt. Philo is one of the most picturesque views of Lake Champlain Valley and the Adirondacks. The 237-acre park is a favorite for hikers and dog owners, and also includes a small campground.

Address

Mount Philo Road Address for Mt. Philo

Oakledge Park

Oakledge Park 1.4 miles

At Oakledge Park, discover a little bit of everything for outdoor enthusiasts. Waterfront views. Beaches. Walking trails. Volleyball courts. Charcoal grills. And in the summer, there’s even paddleboard rentals and “shelter” rentals for events up to eighty people. Did we mention the accessible treehouse?

Red Rocks Parks

Red Rocks Parks 1.9 miles

Discover 100 acres at Red Rocks Parks and enjoy nature at its best throughout the seasons in Vermont. From relaxing pedestrian trails to scenic overlooks and swimming, there’s something for everyone at this park. It’s also dog friendly!

Shelburne Museum

Shelburne Museum 6.9 miles

Discover American history, art and design when you visit Shelburne Museum, plus stunning landscapes, gardens and sculptures. The museum is spread across thirty nine buildings on forty-five acres of land, allowing visitors a true artistic escape while also embracing nature.

Whistle Man Schooner

Whistle Man Schooner Under a mile

Set sail on Lake Champlain and embrace the sights of Burlington on the water! From romantic excursions to family rides to lavish private charters, Whistle Man is excited to welcome you and introduce you to a different side of Vermont that you might not normally consider.

Crow Bookshop

Crow Bookshop Under a mile

Since 1995 Crow Bookshop has been a staple in Burlington, bringing indie titles to the bookshelves, along with a wide variety of used books, as well. Find cookbooks, children’s books, discounted titles, and everything else in between.

Golden Hour Gift Company

Golden Hour Gift Company Under a mile

Golden Hour is a quirky shop featuring things like funny stationary and offbeat jewelry, fun pots and planters, wacky art and clothing, and all the unique gadgets that bring a little bit of life and color to your world. Because earrings in the shape of gummy bears and planters in the shapes of mushrooms are what we’re talking about!

Harbour Thread

Harbour Thread Under a mile

At Harbour Thread, it’s trendy Vermont clothing at its finest. From footwear to swimwear, men and women’s clothing and lifestyle goods, it’s the kind of place you go in to browse, and then end up wanting everything!

Outdoor Gear Exchange

Outdoor Gear Exchange Under a mile

From climbing shoes to sleeping bags, ski poles to ice-climbing harnesses, Outdoor Gear Exchange is a paradise for outdoor gear in Burlington. Find name brands that you love and trust, plus consignment items. They even offer rentals and demos.

The Vault Collective

The Vault Collective Under a mile

The Vault Collective is a curated shop of vintage clothing, loaded with interesting finds that will give you plenty to browse while out and about shopping in Burlington. Looking for a 70s-inspired knit hat? Or a 90s-style varsity jacket? Yep, you’ll find it here and more.

Located in Burlington

From the Guide

Our Favorites

  • 1
    HOP ABOARD THE FERRY

    Enjoy a ferry ride on beautiful Lake Champlain, the most direct route between Vermont and the Adirondacks and, as a round-trip foot passenger, also a fantastic way to watch a spectacular Lake Champlain sunset.

  • 2
    EXPLORE the SHELBURNE MUSEUM

    One of the world's great collections of American folk art, artifacts and architecture. Nestled on 45 scenic acres with 37 exhibit buildings and 80,000 artifacts, diversity delights at this national treasure.

  • 3
    DINE AT BISTRO DE MARGOT

    A block and half off of the Church Street Marketplace, this restaurant crafts fine, yet approachable, french cuisine served up with a few modern twists and seasonal inspirations from the creative mind of head chef and owner Hervé Mahé.

A historical marker for Church Street Marketplace in Burlington, VT next to a brick building
A refreshing cocktail garnished with an orange slice at a bar in Burlington, VT