What to do in Burlington, Vermont November 5th, 2020 • by Matt Holmes Downtown Burlington is a short distance from the airport, and the historic center can easily be managed on foot. Home to the University of Vermont and Champlain College, Burlington has a lively college-town vibe with plenty of fun shops and delicious restaurants. It’s easy to spend two days in town before, after, or bookending our Vermont hiking tours. THINGS TO DO Church Street This pedestrian-only street in the heart of Burlington is full of independent shops, restaurants, historic architecture, and street performers throughout the warmer months. Pine Street Head to the South End along Pine Street for antique shops, the Burlington Farmers Market, funky art galleries, breweries, the Lake Champlain Chocolates Factory, and the world’s tallest filing cabinet, built as a commentary on bureaucratic delays and paperwork. Island Line Trail Rent a bike and ride this paved rail trail that follows the shoreline. The trail continues on the Causeway in the middle of the lake and is connected to South Hero Island via a short ferry. Waterfront Park A community park featuring a boardwalk, sailing lessons, and kayak and canoe rentals. Spirit of Ethan Allen Lake Cruise Enjoy narrated cruises of Lake Champlain. Green Mountain Railroad Choose from a scenic dinner train with historic narration, vintage lounge car with live music, or a murder mystery dinner train: trainridesvt.com.The plain exterior of this 11th-century church belies the impressive mosaics, sculptures, and architectural details inside. As the resting place of some of St. Nicholas’ remains (yes, Santa Claus), it is an important pilgrimage destination for both Roman Catholics and Eastern Orthodox believers.