Vermont's largest city, Burlington occupies a strategic place on Lake Champlain, on the state's western border with New York.
Burlington has an active, vibrant downtown area. It centers around Church Street Marketplace, a pedestrian mall lined with tasteful shops and excellent restaurants. The Magic Brewing Company has a devoted clientele, as does the Lake Champlain Chocolate Factory.
But one of the most delightful ways to see Burlington is from the deck of a boat on Lake Champlain. In addition to the usual lake scenery, the waters of Champlain supposedly harbor a monster, "Champ," the cousin of Scotland's Nessie. You can also take a ferry all the way across the lake to New York state (the ferries run several times a day mid-May to October).
Sightseeing
You'll find an abundance of historic sights to visit in Burlington. Start with the Ethan Allen Homestead, the restored farmhouse where the Revolutionary War hero lived. Then take a stroll through one or more of the city's eight historic districts. We particularly like Pearl Street (homes from the 1700s), College and Main streets (1800s structures) and South Willard Street (impressive mansions). If you're an architecture buff, stop by the Follett House, a classic Greek Revival mansion on College Street now used for office space.
Recreation
Burlington maintains two public beaches and a 9-mi/14-km bike path along the lake. The Burlington region offers abundant outdoor activities, including kayaking, fishing, sailing, hiking, biking and skiing, as well as many indoor pursuits such as dining, shopping, concerts and special events.
Tourist Offices
The Vermont Department of Tourism and Marketing is located in Montpelier. Phone 802-828-3237. Toll-free 800-837-6668. http://www.vermontvacation.com.
Calendar
Annual festivals in the Burlington area include the Discover Jazz Festival (six days of music performed in theaters and outdoor locations all over the city in June); the Green Mountain Chew Chew (food festival in late June); the Vermont Mozart Festival (mid-July to early August); the weeklong Champlain Valley Fair in Essex Junction (just east of Burlington late August-early September); the Vermont Hand Crafter's Fair (handcrafted products, including quilts, dolls and furniture in November); and First Night (a family-friendly New Year's Eve celebration on 31 December).
