Mike's Town Spotlight: Burlington

Burlington is a picturesque city located on the eastern shore of Lake Champlain. With its vibrant arts scene, excellent schools, and natural beauty, it is no wonder that this city consistently ranks high on “best places to live” lists. Here are some reasons why Burlington is a great place to live, work, and play:

Burlington has a small-town feel with big-city amenities. With a population of around 45,000, it’s easy to get around and feel part of a close-knit community. It has a vibrant arts and culture scene, with numerous art galleries, theaters, and museums. The Flynn Center for the Performing Arts is a world-class venue that attracts nationally renowned performers, while the Burlington City Arts Center is a hub for local artists.

Outdoor enthusiasts will feel right at home in Burlington. The city sits on the shores of Lake Champlain, which offers numerous opportunities for water sports such as boating, kayaking, and fishing. The Burlington Bike Path is a popular trail that stretches for eight miles along the lakefront. It’s a great place for biking, walking, or running. In the winter, there are plenty of opportunities for skiing, snowboarding, and snowshoeing at nearby resorts.

Burlington is home to the University of Vermont, a top-ranked public university that attracts students from all over the world. The city also has excellent public schools, with a strong emphasis on sustainability and outdoor education. The Burlington School District has received numerous accolades for its innovative programs and high graduation rates.

Burlington’s economy is diverse, with a mix of large employers and small businesses. It has a thriving tech industry, with companies such as Dealer.com, Burton Snowboards, MyWebGrocer, and Logic Supply all calling the city home. The University of Vermont Medical Center is the largest employer in the state, providing thousands of jobs in healthcare. Burlington also has a vibrant tourism industry, with visitors coming to experience the city’s natural beauty, outdoor activities, and cultural offerings.

Burlington is a foodie’s paradise, with a thriving farm-to-table scene. One of the most popular is The Farmhouse Tap and Grill on Bank Street just off Church Street. Church Street Marketplace is an “open air walking mall” disguised as a city marketplace, featuring national and local vendors and dozens of bars and restaurants. Truly one of the most popular attractions in the city for tourists. The city is located in the heart of Vermont’s agricultural region, and many restaurants and breweries source their ingredients from local farms. There are numerous craft breweries and cideries in the area, including the iconic Burlington Beer Company, Citizen Cider, Zero Gravity, and Foam Brewers. Foam is extremely popular in the summer with the outdoor patio overlooking Lake Champlain, it’s a great place for live music and a place to gather before dinner downtown. The Burlington Farmers’ Market is a must-visit destination for foodies, with more than 90 vendors selling fresh produce, artisanal cheeses, and other locally made products.

Burlington, Vermont, is a unique and vibrant city that offers something for everyone. Its natural beauty, vibrant arts scene, excellent schools, and strong sense of community make it a great place to live, work, and play. Whether you’re an outdoor enthusiast, a foodie, or a culture buff, Burlington has something to offer. If you’re considering a move to Vermont, put Burlington at the top of your list.