Winter in Burlington, Vermont, is a local’s dream for outdoor adventures, cozy moments, and vibrant seasonal festivities. From iconic events downtown to hidden gems along Lake Champlain, Burlington transforms into a lively winter wonderland, offering activities for every style and mood.
Best Winter Activities in Burlington
Burlington offers a wide range of winter activities to suit all visitors and locals:
- Hit the slopes or nearby trails for skiing, snowboarding, or cross-country adventures; the region is famous for its ski mountains, and snowshoeing is a peaceful way to experience Vermont’s winter scenery at Centennial Woods Loop and beyond.
- Skating is popular at outdoor rinks like the one in Callahan Park where you can borrow skates and hockey gear for free, or try indoor rock climbing at Petra Cliffs for a break from the cold.
- Take a brisk stroll or cross-country ski trip along the Burlington Greenway, which runs for eight scenic miles along the shores of Lake Champlain and is especially peaceful in winter.
Must-Experience Winter Events
Burlington’s winter event calendar is packed with local flavor:
- The Burlington Winter Lights enliven the city with dazzling displays, and the annual Ice Bar brings frosty fun, cocktails, and music to the community each March.
- Don’t miss the Penguin Plunge, where daring participants take a dip in icy Lake Champlain to support the Special Olympics.
- The BTV Winter Market fills downtown with holiday cheer and artisan gifts, while nearby Great Ice! in North Hero offers fireworks, bonfires, and dog sled rides in February.
- For arts and entertainment, catch a show at the Flynn Center or Vermont Comedy Club; jazz nights at Juniper in Hotel Vermont are also a local favorite.
Local Favorite Winter Spots
Burlington locals know the best places to embrace the season:
- Unwind with Turkish coffee and donuts at The Grey Jay, or enjoy shopping for Vermont-made goods at Thirty Odd in the South End.
- Take a bundled walk starting at Perkins Pier for breathtaking lake and mountain views, then warm up with a drink at a cozy bar downtown.
- Explore the Church Street Marketplace, filled with boutiques and festive lighting, or dive into the area’s craft beer scene for après-adventure relaxation.
