Burlington, Vermont is a vibrant city with plenty of activities to offer. However, for those looking to explore the city on a budget, there are plenty of free things to do in Burlington VT. From outdoor adventures to cultural experiences, there is something for everyone.

One of the most popular free things to do in Burlington VT is to take a stroll down Church Street Marketplace. Lined with local and commercial shops, this pedestrian-only street is a hub for shopping, dining, and people-watching. Visitors can also enjoy street performances and live music while exploring the area.

For those looking to enjoy the great outdoors, Burlington offers several free parks and trails. The Burlington Bike Path offers stunning views of Lake Champlain and is perfect for a bike ride or a leisurely walk. Other popular parks include Waterfront Park and Oakledge Park, which offer beach access and picnic areas. With so many free activities to choose from, visitors can enjoy all that Burlington has to offer without breaking the bank.

Freely Exploring Waterfront Park 

Waterfront Park is one of the most popular parks in Burlington, Vermont. It is located on Lake Champlain and offers stunning views of the Adirondack Mountains. The park is open year-round and offers a variety of activities for visitors.

Battery Park Views

Battery Park is located within Waterfront Park and offers some of the best views of Lake Champlain and the Adirondack Mountains. Visitors can take a leisurely walk around the park and enjoy the scenery. The park also has benches where visitors can sit and relax while enjoying the views.

Bike Path Adventures

One of the best ways to explore Waterfront Park is by bike. The park has a bike path that runs along the lake and offers beautiful views of the water and mountains. Visitors can rent bikes from nearby shops and ride along the path at their own pace. The bike path is also a great way to explore other parts of Burlington, as it connects to other bike paths in the city.

Visiting Free Local Museums

Burlington, VT offers a variety of museums that are free to visit. These museums showcase the history, art, and culture of the area, making them an excellent source of education and entertainment for visitors. Here are two museums that are worth checking out:

Fleming Museum of Art

The Fleming Museum of Art is located on the University of Vermont’s campus and is dedicated to the preservation and exhibition of art and artifacts from around the world. The museum has a diverse collection that includes everything from ancient Egyptian artifacts to contemporary art pieces. Some of the highlights of the museum’s collection include:

• A large collection of Asian art, including Chinese ceramics, Japanese prints, and Indian sculptures.
• A collection of ancient Greek and Roman art, including pottery, sculpture, and coins.
• An extensive collection of American art, including works by Winslow Homer, Edward Hopper, and Georgia O’Keeffe.

The museum also hosts temporary exhibitions throughout the year, so visitors can always expect to see something new and exciting.

ECHO Leahy Center for Lake Champlain

The ECHO Leahy Center for Lake Champlain is a science museum that focuses on the ecology and history of Lake Champlain and the surrounding region. The museum has a variety of interactive exhibits that allow visitors to learn about the lake’s ecosystem, the history of the region, and the science behind climate change. Some of the highlights of the museum’s exhibits include:

• A large aquarium that showcases the different species of fish and other aquatic life that can be found in Lake Champlain.
• An interactive weather exhibit that allows visitors to learn about the science behind weather patterns and climate change.
• A replica of a historic steamship that was used to transport goods and passengers on Lake Champlain in the 19th century.

Enjoying Seasonal Activities

Summer Concerts at Battery Park

Burlington’s Battery Park is a great place to enjoy free summer concerts. The park is located in the heart of Burlington and features beautiful views of Lake Champlain. The park has a large grassy area that is perfect for picnics and relaxing. The summer concert series features local bands and musicians, providing a great opportunity to enjoy some live music in a beautiful outdoor setting.

Ice Skating at Leddy Park

Leddy Park is a great place to go ice skating during the winter months. The park has a large outdoor rink that is free and open to the public. The rink is maintained by the city and is open from dawn until dusk. Leddy Park also has a warming hut where skaters can warm up and take a break from the cold. Skates are available for rent at a nearby shop, or visitors can bring their own.

Strolling Through Historic Districts

Burlington, VT is a city with a rich history, and there’s no better way to experience it than by strolling through its historic districts. Here are two must-see destinations for history buffs and anyone who appreciates beautiful architecture.

Church Street Marketplace

Church Street Marketplace is a pedestrian-only shopping and dining area in the heart of Burlington. This vibrant district is home to over 100 locally owned shops and restaurants, as well as historic buildings and landmarks. Visitors can stroll down the brick-paved street and take in the sights and sounds of the city, from street performers to live music. The area is also home to several historical sites, including the First Unitarian Universalist Society Meeting House and the Unitarian Church.

University of Vermont Campus

The University of Vermont (UVM) is a public research university founded in 1791, making it one of the oldest universities in the country. The campus is located in the historic Hill Section of Burlington, and visitors can take a self-guided tour to explore the many historic buildings and landmarks on campus. The most notable buildings include the Old Mill, which was built in 1829 and is the oldest building on campus, and the Billings Library, which was built in 1885 and is now home to the UVM Alumni Association. Visitors can also explore the Fleming Museum of Art, which houses over 25,000 objects from around the world.

Frequently Asked Questions

What are some family-friendly activities in Burlington, VT that are free of charge?

Burlington, VT offers a variety of family-friendly activities that are free of charge. One of the most popular activities is visiting the Church Street Marketplace, which is a pedestrian-only street filled with local shops, restaurants, and street performers. Another great option is visiting the Burlington Farmers’ Market, which takes place every Saturday from May through October. Families can enjoy live music, food samples, and a variety of local vendors. Additionally, the ECHO Leahy Center for Lake Champlain offers free admission to children under the age of 3, and discounted admission for children ages 3-17.

What are the best cost-free experiences for adults in Burlington, VT?

Adults visiting Burlington, VT can enjoy a variety of cost-free experiences. One of the most popular activities is taking a stroll along the waterfront and enjoying the views of Lake Champlain and the Adirondack Mountains. Another great option is visiting the Burlington City Arts Center, which offers free admission to their galleries and exhibits. Additionally, the Magic Hat Brewing Company offers free tours of their brewery, which includes beer samples and a behind-the-scenes look at the brewing process.

What are the top free attractions to visit in Burlington, VT over the weekend?

Burlington, VT offers a variety of free attractions to visit over the weekend. One of the top attractions is the Shelburne Museum, which offers free admission on Sundays from 10am-1pm. The museum features a variety of exhibits, including art, history, and Americana. Another great option is visiting the Ethan Allen Homestead, which is free to visit on Sundays from 12pm-4pm. Visitors can explore the historic home and learn about the life of Ethan Allen, a Revolutionary War hero.

What are the popular free outdoor activities in Burlington, VT?

Burlington, VT offers a variety of popular free outdoor activities. One of the most popular activities is hiking the trails at the Red Rocks Park, which offers stunning views of Lake Champlain. Another great option is visiting the Waterfront Park, which offers a variety of recreational activities, including biking, walking, and picnicking. Additionally, visitors can enjoy free concerts and events at the Battery Park, which is located in the heart of downtown Burlington.

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