Winter in Burlington has a way of making everything feel a little cozier. While some prefer to spend their days outdoors in the snow, there are plenty of ways to enjoy the season without stepping into the cold for long. Here is your complete itinerary to indoor winter fun in and around Burlington, Vermont.
Morning: Settle In and Warm Up
Grab a Coffee and Brunch Downtown
Begin your winter morning in Burlington with a coffee from local cafés, including Haymaker Bun Company, Black Cap Coffee & Bakery, and Speeder & Earl’s. For brunch, check out Burlington Bagel Bakery, Cafe Hot, and Burlington’s many other spots, and let the day ease in at its own pace.
Head to The Essex Resort & Spa
A short drive from downtown, The Essex Resort & Spa makes for an ideal late-morning stop. Book a massage, enjoy the indoor pool, or relax in a quiet lounge with a drink in hand to warm up before the day picks up.
Indoor Golf in Burlington
When it's too snowy to get out on the course, Burlington’s indoor golf simulators open up. Head to Gonzo’s HD Sports and Back Nine for a relaxed atmosphere perfect for winter afternoons. Make sure to call ahead to reserve your spot! There is no shortage of golf enthusiasts in Vermont, and spots fill up quickly.
Afternoon: Lean Into Indoor Fun
Lunch in the City
Head back into Burlington for a warm midday meal. American Flatbread offers Vermont-inspired pizzas, Halvorson's brings bright small plates to Church Street, and Farmhouse Tap & Grill combines farm-to-table ingredients with classic comfort food.
Indoor Fun
What is there to do indoors in Winter in Burlington, VT?
For those seeking a unique and active way to spend their afternoon without trudging through the snow, Burlington offers some great ways to try something new indoors. Try out something new at BurlyAxe Throwing, knock some pins down at Spare Time, shake off winter cabin fever at Breakroom VT, or challenge yourself at The Great Escape Room.
Browse local shops
For a low-key afternoon, take a stroll through Church Street and visit local shops. Grab a new book at Crow Book Shop, find some hidden, thrifted gems at The Vault Collective, or check out some of Burlington’s winter markets that pop up all season long.
Evening: Keep It Cozy
Dinner in Burlington
Burlington has plenty of restaurants that feel especially inviting on a winter night. Hen of the Wood leans into seasonal Vermont cooking, Leunig's Bistro brings French-inspired cuisine to Church Street, and Trattoria Delia offers Italian classics in a warm, tucked-away dining room.
Sample Local Brews
The Queen City is known for its award-winning craft beer. Check out Burlington Beer Co., SwitchBack, Foam Brewers, and many other local favorites.
Nightlife
What are some evening nightlife options in Burlington, VT?
Step out of the cold and into one of Burlington’s bars to wind down and end the day right. From retro-arcade games at The Archives, Lincoln’s relaxed speakeasy atmosphere, and specialty cocktails at the Mule Bar, there’s a vibe for everyone.
Live Music and Performing Arts
Catch a show with the whole family at The Flynn or Higher Ground, with world-class performers and live music, or catch a one-of-a-kind show at The Lamp Shop with a curated mix of international and beloved local musicians.
A Full Winter Day Indoors
From spa time and indoor golf to axe-throwing, bowling, and arcade bars, the city offers a wide range of indoor experiences that turn a cold day into a memorable one. It is the perfect way to enjoy the season while staying warm and comfortable from dawn to dusk.
