When the snow melts and the sun sticks around, Burlington flips the switch. The city wakes up—early. Locals shed their layers. Bikes hit the paths. Breweries spill onto patios. And suddenly, every day feels like a reason to celebrate.

Maybe it’s the way Lake Champlain glistens in the late afternoon. Or how Church Street buzzes with street performers, and that contagious energy that makes you want to just wander. It could be the trails, the tunes, or the creemees (yes, they’re back)—but whatever it is, spring and summer here are in full swing.

You can bike the Island Line Trail, paddle out to a hidden beach, hike into the Green Mountains, or catch live music at Higher Ground or a number of different venues in town. Or don’t plan a thing. Just explore and let Burlington surprise you.