February school vacation week is one of the best times for families to spend winter break in Burlington, Vermont. With walkable attractions, nearby outdoor adventures, and plenty of indoor activities, Burlington makes an easy and flexible home base for a winter family getaway. From hands-on museums to cold-weather fun and sugaring season traditions, this guide highlights things to do during February break in Burlington.
 

Indoor Winter Activities for Families in Burlington
 

Winter days in Burlington pair well with hands-on indoor stops and time downtown. Many favorites are clustered in the city center, making it simple to move between activities on foot or by taking a short drive. Best for cold or snowy days and families looking for easy half-day activities close to downtown.

 

Children exploring aquarium exhibits at ECHO Leahy Center for Lake Champlain in Burlington, Vermont
 

 

ECHO Leahy Center for Lake Champlain: Indoor Winter Fun for Families

Stop by ECHO, Leahy Center for Lake Champlain, home to Vermont’s largest (15,000-gallon) aquarium. Set right on the waterfront, ECHO brings Lake Champlain to life with live aquatic exhibits, interactive science displays, and seasonal events. Kids can get up close with native fish and reptiles and explore hands-on exhibits. Lake Champlain folklore runs through the exhibits, with stories about Burlington’s mascot, Champ, along the way. 

Especially good for families with kids ages 5–12 and a go-to stop during February school vacation week.

 

Vermont Teddy Bears sitting on a shelf at the outlet

 

Vermont Teddy Bear Factory: A Family-Friendly Winter Break Stop Near Burlington

Just south of Burlington in Shelburne, the Vermont Teddy Bear Factory is a fun, behind-the-scenes stop for visitors of all ages. Guided factory tours walk guests through how each teddy bear is made, from early stitching stages to final stuffing and finishing touches.

The tour moves at a comfortable pace, with plenty to watch along the way, and wraps up in the gift shop where visitors can pick out a bear to bring home. A fun indoor option for all ages and an easy add-on to a winter break day outside of Burlington.

 

Winter view of Church Street Marketplace in downtown Burlington, Vermont
 

Church Street Marketplace: Winter Break Shopping and Strolling for Families

In the heart of downtown Burlington, the Church Street Marketplace is an easy stop for the whole family. Here are a few local favorites:

More Family-Friendly Indoor Activities Near Burlington

These spots work well when you want to keep plans flexible during winter break in Burlington: Here are some of our go-tos:

 


 

Outdoor Winter Adventures Near Burlington

Winter in Burlington leaves room to get outside without spending the entire day in the cold. Ski mountains, trails, and sledding spots are all a short drive from downtown, so families can get outside and still keep plans flexible. Best for families who want outdoor time without committing to a full day in the cold.
 

Family-Friendly Skiing and Riding Near Burlington

Hit the slopes at Bolton Valley, Smugglers’ Notch, or Sugarbush. Lessons, well-marked trails, and family-friendly base lodges make these mountains approachable for beginners and pros alike. A good option for families planning a winter vacation in Burlington with day trips to nearby mountains.

 

Snowshoeing and Cross-Country Skiing for Families

Snowshoeing and Nordic skiing offer a slower way to get outside during winter. Groomed trails and rentals at Catamount Outdoor Family Center and Sleepy Hollow Inn make it easy to head out for a few hours and explore without committing to a full day. Ideal for slower winter days or families looking for a low-key outdoor activity.

 

Winter Hiking and Walking Trails Around Burlington

Winter hiking around Burlington delivers views without long climbs. Short trails at Mount Philo State Park and lakefront paths at Red Rocks Park and Rock Point are good choices for a scenic walk and some fresh air. If you're looking for other options to get out and explore a bit more check out a full list here!

 


 

Sugaring Season Activities During February Break in Vermont

February also marks the start of sugaring season, one of Vermont’s most beloved traditions. As sugarhouses begin tapping trees and boiling sap, Maple Open House weekend and Magic of Maple at Billings Farm & Museum give families a chance to see the process firsthand and sample some of Vermont's finest maple delicacies like sugar on snow! (Don't forget the pickle!) Sugaring season also makes its way to downtown Burlington, with events like Maple Madness at the Church Street Marketplace bringing sugaring traditions and maple treats to the heart of Burlington for a one-day celebration.
 

Family sharing pizza at a casual restaurant in Burlington, Vermont

Family-Friendly Restaurants in Burlington, Vermont

After a day of winter activities, Burlington’s restaurants make it easy to keep meals relaxed and family-friendly. These spots make it easy to keep meals relaxed and kid-friendly during winter break.
 

Breakfast & Brunch

The Friendly Toast is a popular choice for breakfast and brunch, with a large menu and fun atmosphere that works well for groups. Henry’s Diner is another go-to for classic breakfast plates and a no-frills start to the day. If you're looking to sample something very Vermont, try out Skinny Pancake! A crepe based restaurant serving up a wide variety of options for breakfast, lunch, and dinner.
 

Lunch & Dinner

For easy lunches or casual dinners, grab some pizza at American Flatbread or Ken’s Pizza. For farm-to-table options that work well for groups, head to Farmhouse Tap & Grill for classic American cuisine, or Bluebird BBQ for southern flavors made with local ingredients. 
 

Warm Drinks & Sweet Stops

Cold days call for a warm cup of coffee and something sweet. Head to Nomad Coffee before taking in views of the Burlington Waterfront, try out Burlington’s favorite buns at Haymaker Bun Company, or get breakfast and coffee all day at August First.

 

The Essex Resort & Spa blanketed by snow

Where to Stay During Winter Break in Burlington, Vermont

Staying near downtown Burlington keeps restaurants, shops, and winter activities close together during school vacation week. Staying near downtown works especially well for families visiting Burlington during February school vacation week.

 

Check out a full list of hotel properties that are perfect for families booking their Vermont winter getaway. 

 

Make February Break a Burlington Tradition

Winter break in Burlington, Vermont is the perfect family getaway, blending outdoor adventures with downtown convenience. Families can explore snow-covered trails, cross-country ski, fat bike, or skate on local rinks before visiting hands-on attractions like ECHO, the Vermont Teddy Bear Factory, or Church Street Marketplace. Downtown makes it easy to enjoy restaurants, shops, and seasonal events just minutes from winter fun. From sledding hills and scenic hikes to maple-themed experiences and cozy cafés, Burlington offers a flexible and action-packed home base for families visiting Vermont.

 

Book your stay here.