Burlington, Vermont
Burlington is a beautiful city on the eastern shore of Lake Champlain. It is the most populous city in Vermont with a population of 44,743 people, and it is home to two colleges: University of Vermont and Champlain College. Nestled between the lake and the Green Mountains, Burlington is full of beautiful views, and it is known for its outdoorsy and artistic community. The city is only 45 miles from the Canada-United States border, so you may hear a bit of French spoken on the radio! In 2015, Burlington became the first city in the U.S. to run entirely on renewable energy.
History
Before European colonization, the land east of Lake Champlain into New Hampshire was inhabited by the Abenaki, an Algonquin people. West of the Lake was inhabited by the Mohawk, an Iroquois people. Lake Champlain was then called Pitawbagw, meaning “The waters between” in the Abenaki language. In 1775, the land that would become Burlington was beginning to be cleared by European settlers from New Hampshire, but further development was put on hold due to the American Revolution. The region was active in the war, with two of the earliest settlers, Ethan and Ira Allen, becoming war heroes in the fight against the British. (You will definitely see buildings and roads in Burlington named after these two!) Burlington was then organized in 1785.
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During the War of 1812, though the war was unpopular in Vermont due to its proximity and trade with Canada, troops were stationed in Burlington (even at UVM, itself!). Near the lake, Battery Park is named after its old residents! One of the most important naval battles of the War of 1812 was the Battle of Lake Champlain.
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Burlington became a large lumber and manufacturing center due to its use of Lake Champlain and the surrounding rivers, its railroads, and its forests.
Weather
Weather
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Burlington in June is usually fairly warm (average high temperature is 76ËšF, average low temp 55ËšF), so bring a light layer that you can take on or off easily. Springtime in Vermont can be very wet, as rain is quite common. Boots are always a good idea in Burlington! However, June is also the month with the highest average amount of daylight in Burlington, so enjoy the long days and the beautiful flowers that will be out this time of year!
Transportation
Burlington is an extremely walk-able city! Every street has side walks and pedestrian crossings, and walking is one of the best ways to enjoy the city. The waterfront is only 0.9 miles from UVM's campus and Church Street Marketplace is 0.5 miles from campus!
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If you do not have a car in Burlington, one way to get around Burlington is by bus! The local Green Mountain Transit bus system not only has a very comprehensive route list, but it is also extremely easy to use and free of charge! The buses can take you just about anywhere in Burlington and to surrounding towns.
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Another way to get around Burlington without a car is by biking! Vermonters love to bike just about anywhere, and the city has plenty of bike lanes. Bike rentals are quite common in Burlington, so if you prefer biking to walking, check out some of the rental options in Burlington!
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Things to see while you're here!
Church Street Marketplace
Located in downtown Burlington, Church Street Marketplace is the most popular place to walk, shop, and eat. Known for its lively atmosphere, Church Street is a must-see spot in Burlington! It is pedestrian-only, and there is something there for everyone.
Burlington Waterfront
On the shore of Lake Champlain, just past downtown Burlington, there is a quaint walkway along the water – a perfect place to enjoy the sunset and have a creemee (what Vermonters call a soft-serve ice cream cone!). Take your dinner to-go and have a picnic in the Waterfront Park! Or go out on the lake on the Spirit of Ethan Allen sunset cruise!
Shelburne Farms
Shelburne Farms is an education nonprofit on a mission to cultivate a sustainable future. It not only has beautiful walking paths throughout the grounds, but it also has great views of sheep and cows, mountains, and of course the lovely Lake Champlain! It's a great way to enjoy the quiet beauty of Vermont.
UVM's Greenhouses
UVM's greenhouse facilities support the research, teaching and outreach needs of many departments throughout the college and university. They are home to a range of plants, some of which are sold to visitors. The greenhouses are a charming oasis (especially in the cold Vermont winters!).
UVM's Natural Areas
UVM is responsible for the identification, protection, and management of important natural areas on University-owned lands. These areas are gorgeous to visit, explore, and appreciate the natural beauty in Vermont. Whether you like to hike or would rather take an easy stroll, there are so many great outdoor spots to enjoy!
UVM's Fleming Museum
On UVM's campus, the Fleming Museum of Art always has engaging new exhibits to explore! Since its opening in 1931, the museum has brought world-class art and diverse visual culture to the people of northern New England. Go visit if you have some time to spare, especially if you appreciate art!