Embracing Winter In Vermont: Surviving and Thriving In Burlington
Cole Cross • Nov 01, 2023
Winter in Vermont isn’t just a season; it’s an experience unlike any other. While the cold may seem daunting, Burlington, nestled in the heart of this snow-laden wonderland, offers a myriad of activities that turn the chilly months into a magical time. Here’s how to not only survive but thrive during a winter stint in this charming city.
Surviving the Cold
- Layer Up: Dressing in layers is key to staying warm. Invest in quality winter clothing, including thermal wear, waterproof boots, and a good winter coat. Good snowpants are a necessity, and never leave home without your gloves and hat! (For affordable items, Sierra Trading Post and Outdoor Gear Exchange Secondhand are worth checking out).
- Stay Active: Engage in regular physical activity to keep your body warm and spirits high. Indoor workouts or yoga classes can be a great way to stay active during the colder months. Or layer up and
- Home Comforts: Create a cozy sanctuary at home with blankets, hot cocoa, and a good book or movie. Light some pine scented candles and give your space the winter cabin vibe of your dreams.
Embrace the Winter Wonderland
- Outdoor Adventures: Put on your snow gear and explore! Try cross-country skiing or snowshoeing along the breathtaking trails of Intervale Center or at Catamount Golf Course. If you like downhill skiing or snowboarding and enjoy a powder day on the slopes, plan a day at Bolton Valley Resort or Smugglers' Notch. Stowe Mountain and Jay Peak are two other resorts that will satisfy your adrenaline itch.
- Lake Champlain’s Ice Magic: The frozen Lake Champlain offers a unique opportunity for ice skating, ice fishing, or simply taking a scenic stroll along the icy shores. Don’t miss the stunning sunsets over the frozen lake—Instagram-worthy moments guaranteed!
- Winter Festivities: Burlington comes alive with winter festivities like the Burlington Winter Farmers’ Market, showcasing local produce and crafts, and the Winter Lights at Shelburne Museum, illuminating the farm with stunning light displays and music.
Cozy Indoor Escapes
- Local Cafés and Eateries: Warm up in Burlington’s cozy cafés like Muddy Waters or Uncommon Grounds, sipping on a hot cup of locally roasted coffee. Explore farm-to-table eateries like Hen of the Wood or Poco for hearty meals made from fresh, local ingredients.
- Inside Activities: If you want to gather some friends and do something fun, try something new like axe throwing at Burly Axe, or check out Spare Time and indulge in a fun night of bowling, arcade games, escape rooms, or laser tag! If games aren’t your style, hitting up a concert at Higher Grounds always makes for a fun night of dancing and good vibes.
- Craft Breweries and Distilleries: Vermont is renowned for its craft beer and spirits. Explore Burlington’s breweries and distilleries like Zero Gravity Craft Brewery or Foam Brewery, and embrace the cozy atmosphere while savoring local flavors.
Community and Connection
- Winter Markets and Events: Engage with the local community by participating in winter markets, events, or volunteer opportunities. It’s a great way to meet new people and experience the warmth of Vermont hospitality.
- Join Clubs or Classes: Consider joining a winter sports club or taking up a class like pottery or painting to keep yourself engaged and connected with others. Burlington City Arts offers a variety of classes and studio memberships for artists of all levels.
Winter in Vermont, particularly in Burlington, is a time of enchantment and community. By embracing the season and diving into the plethora of activities available, you’ll not only survive but create unforgettable memories amidst the snow-covered landscape. So, bundle up, sip on some hot cider, and embrace the magic of a Vermont winter!
As summer’s warmth fades into the crisp embrace of autumn, Burlington, Vermont transforms into a tapestry of color and activity. The anticipation of fall in this charming New England town is palpable, with locals and visitors alike eagerly awaiting the stunning foliage and exciting events that define the season. If this is your first fall season in the area, you will be delighted by the magic every day has to offer. A Symphony of Color Fall in Burlington is synonymous with breathtaking foliage. As September rolls into October, the city’s trees begin their transformation. Maple, oak, and birch trees burst into vivid shades of red, orange, and yellow, creating a picturesque landscape that draws photographers and nature lovers from far and wide. Leaf peepers from all over come to experience the magic of it all. Keep this in mind as you are making plans around this time, because the overwhelming number of visitors contributes to increased hotel rates and fully booked restaurants! Take a leisurely stroll along Burlington Waterfront, where the shimmering waters of Lake Champlain provide a perfect contrast to the fiery hues of the surrounding trees. For a more immersive experience, hike up Mount Philo or Camel's Hump, where panoramic views of the foliage stretch as far as the eye can see. The Green Mountain Byway offers a scenic drive through some of the most colorful corridors in the region, spanning from Waterbury to Stowe, making it an ideal day trip for those seeking to soak in the seasonal beauty. Fall Festivities There is so much to do in and around Burlington to celebrate the spirit of fall. Apple picking is a must-do in Vermont in late September through October. Visit Shelburne Orchards, just 20 minutes from Downtown Burlington, or Adams Apple Orchard in Williston for a fun day on the farm, while indulging in seasonal treats like apple cider donuts and fresh-pressed cider. The South End Art Hop is a fun fall event showcasing Burlington’s vibrant art community. This year marks the 32 nd annual Art Hop, giving hundreds of artists and community members the opportunity to exhibit their creativity and gain support for their small businesses. Another highlight is the Burlington Oktoberfest , where the community gathers to enjoy German-inspired food, craft beers, and live music. The festive atmosphere Is contagious, with everyone reveling in the joys of the season right at the Waterfront. If you prefer a more low-key experience, Burlington Farmers Market continues to operate through October, offering a bounty of local produce, artisanal goods, and handcrafted items. Savoring Seasonal Flavors No fall experience in Burlington is complete without indulging in the seasonal flavors that define the region. Local cafes and restaurants embrace the harvest season with menus featuring dishes like butternut squash soup, maple-glazed everything, and, of course, plenty of pumpkin spice and apple cider. What truly sets Burlington apart during the fall is the sense of community. Whether its neighbors raking leaves together, friends gathering for bonfires, or families exploring the great outdoors, there's a collective appreciation for the beauty and bounty of the season. The city's parks and trails are alive with activity, and there's a shared excitement in the air as everyone prepares for the colder months ahead. As the days grow shorter and the nights cooler, Burlington, Vermont, invites you to embrace the enchantment of fall. Whether you’re a local or a visitor, there’s something undeniably magical about this time of year in this charming New England town. From the stunning foliage to the festive events and delicious flavors, fall in Burlington is a season to savor and celebrate. So, grab a cozy sweater, sip on some hot cider, and immerse yourself in the wonder of Autumn in Vermont.
Winter in Vermont isn’t just a season; it’s an experience unlike any other. While the cold may seem daunting, Burlington, nestled in the heart of this snow-laden wonderland, offers a myriad of activities that turn the chilly months into a magical time. Here’s how to not only survive but thrive during a winter stint in this charming city. Surviving the Cold Layer Up: Dressing in layers is key to staying warm. Invest in quality winter clothing, including thermal wear, waterproof boots, and a good winter coat. Good snowpants are a necessity, and never leave home without your gloves and hat! (For affordable items, Sierra Trading Post and Outdoor Gear Exchange Secondhand are worth checking out). Stay Active: Engage in regular physical activity to keep your body warm and spirits high. Indoor workouts or yoga classes can be a great way to stay active during the colder months. Or layer up and Home Comforts: Create a cozy sanctuary at home with blankets, hot cocoa, and a good book or movie. Light some pine scented candles and give your space the winter cabin vibe of your dreams. Embrace the Winter Wonderland Outdoor Adventures: Put on your snow gear and explore! Try cross-country skiing or snowshoeing along the breathtaking trails of Intervale Center or at Catamount Golf Course. If you like downhill skiing or snowboarding and enjoy a powder day on the slopes, plan a day at Bolton Valley Resort or Smugglers' Notch. Stowe Mountain and Jay Peak are two other resorts that will satisfy your adrenaline itch. Lake Champlain’s Ice Magic: The frozen Lake Champlain offers a unique opportunity for ice skating, ice fishing, or simply taking a scenic stroll along the icy shores. Don’t miss the stunning sunsets over the frozen lake—Instagram-worthy moments guaranteed! Winter Festivities: Burlington comes alive with winter festivities like the Burlington Winter Farmers’ Market, showcasing local produce and crafts, and the Winter Lights at Shelburne Museum, illuminating the farm with stunning light displays and music. Cozy Indoor Escapes Local Cafés and Eateries: Warm up in Burlington’s cozy cafés like Muddy Waters or Uncommon Grounds, sipping on a hot cup of locally roasted coffee. Explore farm-to-table eateries like Hen of the Wood or Poco for hearty meals made from fresh, local ingredients. Inside Activities: If you want to gather some friends and do something fun, try something new like axe throwing at Burly Axe, or check out Spare Time and indulge in a fun night of bowling, arcade games, escape rooms, or laser tag! If games aren’t your style, hitting up a concert at Higher Grounds always makes for a fun night of dancing and good vibes. Craft Breweries and Distilleries: Vermont is renowned for its craft beer and spirits. Explore Burlington’s breweries and distilleries like Zero Gravity Craft Brewery or Foam Brewery, and embrace the cozy atmosphere while savoring local flavors. Community and Connection Winter Markets and Events: Engage with the local community by participating in winter markets, events, or volunteer opportunities. It’s a great way to meet new people and experience the warmth of Vermont hospitality. Join Clubs or Classes: Consider joining a winter sports club or taking up a class like pottery or painting to keep yourself engaged and connected with others. Burlington City Arts offers a variety of classes and studio memberships for artists of all levels. Winter in Vermont, particularly in Burlington, is a time of enchantment and community. By embracing the season and diving into the plethora of activities available, you’ll not only survive but create unforgettable memories amidst the snow-covered landscape. So, bundle up, sip on some hot cider, and embrace the magic of a Vermont winter!
