A Perfect Day Trip: Manchester, NH to Burlington, VT
There’s something refreshing about a spontaneous road trip, and today’s adventure was exactly that. From Manchester, New Hampshire, I set out on a day trip to beautiful Burlington, Vermont—a city that perfectly blends natural beauty with small-town charm and vibrant culture.
Hitting the Road 🚗
The drive from Manchester to Burlington took about 2 hours and 15 minutes, mostly along I-89 North. It’s a scenic ride, especially as you pass into Vermont, where the rolling hills and endless greenery seem to welcome you. With a good playlist and a coffee in hand, the time flew by.
First Stop: Church Street Marketplace 🛍️
I made a beeline for Church Street Marketplace, Burlington’s iconic open-air pedestrian mall. Even early in the day, the street was alive with energy—musicians performing, shops opening, and the smell of fresh coffee wafting through the air. I browsed a few local boutiques, admired the colorful murals, and grabbed a maple latte from a cozy café. (When in Vermont, you must have something maple-flavored!)
A Stroll by the Waterfront 🚤
Next, I walked down to the Burlington Waterfront Park. Lake Champlain was simply breathtaking, with the Adirondack Mountains providing a dramatic backdrop across the water. I spent some time just sitting by the dock, soaking in the views. If I had more time, I would have rented a bike and explored more of the Burlington Greenway, but sometimes just slowing down is the best way to experience a place.
Lunch with a View 🍔
For lunch, I headed to a local favorite—The Spot on the Dock. Right on the waterfront, it offered unbeatable views and a laid-back vibe. I ordered a juicy Vermont cheddar burger (because local cheese is a must) and a refreshing lemonade. Eating by the lake, with boats gliding by and a soft breeze blowing, was a highlight of the trip.
Quick Stop: Ethan Allen Homestead 🏡
Before leaving Burlington, I made a quick visit to the Ethan Allen Homestead. It’s a small but fascinating museum dedicated to the Revolutionary War hero and one of Vermont’s founders. The grounds were peaceful, and it added a nice historic touch to the day.
The Drive Back 🚙
Reluctantly, it was time to head back to Manchester. As the sun started to dip, the drive home was even more beautiful, with golden light bathing the Vermont countryside. I arrived home tired but so happy I made the trip.
Final Thoughts
Burlington is the kind of place that instantly makes you feel welcome. Whether you’re into shopping, nature, good food, or history, there’s a little something for everyone. For a day trip from Manchester, NH, it’s the perfect getaway when you need a change of scenery and a breath of fresh, Vermont air.
Would I do it again? Absolutely. Next time, I might even stay overnight to catch a sunset cruise on Lake Champlain or explore more of the surrounding area.