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Burlington Travel Guide: A Lakeside City of Culture & Outdoor Adventure

A vibrant lakeside city known for its outdoor recreation, craft breweries, and thriving arts scene.


🛬 How to Get to Burlington

✈️ By Flight:
Burlington International Airport (BTV) – The closest airport, located just 10 minutes from downtown Burlington.
Montreal-Trudeau International Airport (YUL) – About 2 hours away, offering additional international connections.
Transport Options from BTV:
Shuttle & Rideshare: Uber, Lyft, and taxis available.
Car Rentals: Ideal for exploring Vermont’s scenic countryside.

🚗 By Car:
From Montreal: 2-hour drive via I-89 S.
From Boston: 3.5-hour drive via I-93 N and I-89 N.
From New York City: 5-hour drive via I-87 N and US-7.

🚆 By Train & Bus:
Amtrak Ethan Allen Express: Direct service from New York City to Burlington.
Greyhound & Megabus: Affordable routes from major East Coast cities.

🚍 How to Get Around Burlington
Green Mountain Transit (GMT): Public bus service covering key areas.
Rental Cars & Rideshares: Uber, Lyft, and taxis available.
Bike Rentals: Burlington’s extensive bike paths make cycling a great option.
Ferry Services: The Lake Champlain Ferry connects Burlington to New York.

🏨 Where to Stay in Burlington

Luxury (5-Star Hotels):
Hotel Vermont – A boutique hotel offering rustic elegance with modern amenities.
The Essex Resort & Spa – A luxurious escape just outside of Burlington.

Mid-Range (4-Star Hotels):
Courtyard Burlington Harbor – A lakeside hotel with easy access to downtown attractions.
Hilton Burlington Lake Champlain – Stunning waterfront views and central location.

Budget-Friendly (3-Star & Local Stays):
Green Mountain Suites Hotel – Cozy suites with a Vermont-style charm.
Local Inns & B&Bs: Quaint options featuring farm-to-table breakfasts.

🍽️ Where to Eat in Burlington

Casual & Local Favorites:
Penny Cluse Café – A popular breakfast and brunch spot with creative dishes.
The Skinny Pancake – A must-visit for sweet and savory crepes.

Fine Dining & Special Experiences:
Hen of the Wood – Farm-to-table dining with an upscale Vermont twist.
Leunig’s Bistro & Café – A French-inspired eatery with outdoor seating on Church Street.

Diverse Dining Options:
A Single Pebble – Highly-rated Chinese cuisine with family-style dining.
Bluebird Barbecue – A top spot for slow-smoked meats and local craft beer.

🎭 Things to Do in Burlington

🏛️ Historic Landmarks & Museums:
ECHO, Leahy Center for Lake Champlain: A waterfront science and nature museum.
Shelburne Museum (Nearby Shelburne, VT): An open-air museum with art, Americana, and historic buildings.

🌊 Outdoor & Scenic Attractions:
Waterfront Park & Lake Champlain: A beautiful spot for walking, kayaking, and scenic boat tours.
Burlington Bike Path: A scenic route along the lake, perfect for cycling or walking.
Mount Philo State Park: A short drive away, offering a rewarding hike with panoramic views.

🎶 Arts, Entertainment & Shopping:
Church Street Marketplace: A lively pedestrian-only shopping and dining district.
Flynn Center for the Performing Arts: Live music, theater, and cultural performances.

🦁 Zoos & Aquariums:
ECHO, Leahy Center for Lake Champlain: While not a traditional zoo, this science center features live fish, turtles, and exhibits about the lake’s ecosystem.

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