The Ultimate Guide to Summer in Burlington Vermont
Sticking around or planning a visit during the heat of summer in Burlington? From underground spots downtown to the best creemee stops, here’s your go-to list of fun things to do in Burlington, VT — whether you’re chasing sunsets, snacks, or study breaks.
Best Activities in Burlington During Summer
Visit Church Street
Just a shuttle away from campus, the open-air pedestrian marketplace buzzes with street performers, boutiques, and tasty eats. Don’t miss Lake Champlain Chocolates, Outdoor Gear Exchange, Golden Hour, Burlington Bagel Bakery, and Phoenix Books. Visiting Church Street Marketplace consistently tops lists of fun things to do Burlington VT — be sure to add this classic to your summer plans!
Where to Get a Creemee
If you’ve ever visited Vermont, you’ve heard of the creemee — our extra-smooth soft-serve ice cream. Grab one at Mr. Creemee, Burlington Bay Market & Cafe, or Al’s French Frys. When you’re mapping out your summer plans, a creemee stop is non-negotiable and easily one of the best things to do in Burlington Vermont. If you’ve never had it, try the maple flavor!
Prefer hard-serve? Burlington is the birthplace of Ben & Jerry’s. Hit their ice cream shop on Church Street or tour the Ben & Jerry’s Factory in Waterbury. You could also try Shy Guy Gelato on St. Paul Street — conveniently located next to our 194 St. Paul Street residence hall. Flavors rotate daily, which is a great reason to go there every day.
Summer in Burlington
Creemees, Church Street strolls, lake days, golden sunsets — Burlington summers hit different. Peek inside our photo gallery and start planning your own highlight reel.
Fun Things to Do Outside in Burlington
Adventure on the Burlington Bike Path
Lace up or hop on two wheels: The Burlington Greenway (aka the Burlington Bike Path) is an 8-mile paved path along Lake Champlain. Expect insane lake views and golden-hour photo ops. It’s a hometown favorite for locals in Burlington VT, and should be at the top of your “Fun Things to Do in Burlington, VT” list.
Need wheels? Rent from Local Motion or North Star Sports. Got your own? Champlain’s Juniper Hall has a bike repair station and storage. This is summer in Burlington VT energy, for real.
Get on the Waters of Lake Champlain
Lake Champlain is, without a doubt, the main character of Burlington. If you wish for beach days, boat days, or paddleboard float days every day, then Burlington is the right place for you. Feel the wind, splash around, repeat. Lake Champlain’s Community Sailing Center rents kayaks, canoes, and paddleboards — there’s even paddleboard yoga. Yes, it is real (and humbling). Getting out on the lake is one of the best things to do in Burlington Vermont, and a staple of Vermont summers.
Catch a Movie
Film fans, assemble at the Sunset Drive-In in Colchester, VT for good times and retro vibes. Established in 1948, this is the ultimate place to cool down with some popcorn and catch not one, but two films per visit. Watch from your car or lawn chair, sit back, and enjoy the surprise highlight of your Burlington summer plans.
What to Do on Weekends in Vermont
South End Get Down
Every Friday, 5:00–9:00 PM, Pine Street hosts a free block party with food trucks, live music, and vendors. Bring your crew and your appetite to the South End Get Down. It’s a signature Burlington, VT summer event and belongs at the tippy-top of your summer to-do list.
Burlington Farmers Market
And if you return to the South End the next morning, you’ll see the same location and the lot next door have totally transformed into the iconic Burlington Farmer’s Market. Every Saturday, 9:00 AM–2:00 PM, you can score fresh produce, baked goods, pottery, jewelry — and yes, maple lemonade. For Vermonters in the summer, this market is peak community vibes and, always one of the best things to do in Burlington.
Frequently Asked Questions
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What are the top outdoor activities to do in Burlington, VT?
To make the most of your summer in Burlington, be sure to bike or walk the Burlington Bike Path, paddle on Lake Champlain via the Community Sailing Center, catch sunsets at Waterfront Park, picnic at Oakledge, and explore the South End arts district.
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What family-friendly attractions are in Burlington, VT?
- South End Get Down (free, lively, and chill)
- Burlington Farmers Market
- ECHO, Leahy Center for Lake Champlain
- Waterfront Park and the boardwalk
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Where are the best places to eat and drink in Burlington, VT?
Fuel up at Farmhouse Tap & Grill, Henry’s Diner, Taco Gordo, American Flatbread, Fuda, A Single Pebble, and Hen of the Wood. Many spots source straight from local farms, too, so you’re eating what’s actually in season — and that’s when Burlington’s summer tastes its best.
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What free or budget-friendly things can I do in Burlington, VT?
Stroll Church Street (free street performances), hit South End Get Down (no entry fee), watch lakeside sunsets at Waterfront Park, browse the Burlington Farmers Market, and explore public art murals. These fun things to do in Burlington, VT, make the summer easier on your wallet.
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What are the best spots for live music and nightlife in Burlington, VT?
- Higher Ground
- The Flynn
- Radio Bean
- Church Street Marketplace (rotating performances)
- Ben & Jerry’s on The Green concerts
Ready to Explore Summer in Vermont?
Summer in Burlington is the season for discovery — lake life, good vibes, creemee breaks, and sunsets. Gather your friends, get outside, and make your own highlight reel of the best of Burlington.
BUT! We’ve saved the best for last. While you’re here, stop by to tour campus, learn about our career-focused programs, and snap a pic of the ultimate view of the lake and Adirondack Mountains, right here at Champlain College. Seriously. The view from the library is unreal.
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