Discover 19 family-friendly activities, venues, and restaurants in Burlington.
The highest-rated places we recommend first — start here.
🌳 ParkOakledge Park is a Burlington gem offering families the perfect combination of beach fun and park amenities along beautiful Lake Champlain. Kids can splash in the sandy beach, burn energy on the playground, and families can enjoy picnics with stunning waterfront views. It's an ideal spot for a full morning or afternoon of outdoor play without breaking the bank.
🎨 MuseumThe Birds of Vermont Museum offers a unique blend of natural history and outdoor exploration that captivates young nature lovers. Kids can discover beautifully carved bird specimens showcasing Vermont's avian wildlife, then explore miles of family-friendly nature trails through the surrounding woods where they might spot the real birds they just learned about inside.
🎨 MuseumShelburne Museum is a sprawling 45-acre campus featuring 39 buildings filled with folk art, quilts, vintage toys, carriages, and even a historic steamboat that kids can explore. The outdoor grounds offer plenty of space for children to roam between exhibits, discover beautiful gardens, and burn off energy while parents enjoy world-class collections in a relaxed, family-friendly setting.
🌾 FarmShelburne Farms offers an authentic working farm experience where kids can meet friendly farm animals, watch cheesemakers at work, and explore 1,400 acres of stunning lakeside property. This National Historic Landmark combines hands-on agricultural education with plenty of space for children to roam, making it a perfect blend of learning and outdoor adventure that feels magical without being overly commercialized.
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🌳 ParkWaterfront Park is Burlington's family favorite, offering something for every age right on the shores of Lake Champlain. Kids can cool off in the splash pad during summer, explore multiple playgrounds, and enjoy scenic lakeside trails perfect for bikes and scooters. The open green spaces are ideal for picnics, kite-flying, and letting little ones run free while parents soak in stunning mountain and lake views.
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🎨 MuseumECHO is Burlington's premier hands-on science center combining interactive exhibits with Vermont's only aquarium showcasing native Lake Champlain species. Kids can touch live animals, explore over 100 engaging exhibits about ecology and natural science, and get up close with local fish, frogs, and other aquatic creatures in this waterfront learning destination.
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🎭 TheaterThe Flynn is Burlington's beloved historic theater that brings world-class performing arts to families through its carefully curated lineup of children's shows, Broadway musicals, and concerts. With its stunning architecture and intimate atmosphere, this cultural gem makes live theater accessible and magical for young audiences, offering everything from puppet shows to family-friendly music performances throughout the year.
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🌳 ParkLeddy Beach is Burlington's premier family beach destination on Lake Champlain, offering the perfect combination of sandy shores and shallow swimming areas ideal for young children. With an on-site playground, picnic facilities, and gentle waves, it's a one-stop summer destination where families can easily spend an entire day enjoying lake life without venturing far from the city.
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🌿 NatureThe Missisquoi National Wildlife Refuge offers families a wonderful opportunity to explore Vermont's natural wetlands and observe wildlife in their native habitat. With easy walking trails, bird-watching stations, and educational programs, kids can learn about local ecosystems while spotting herons, ducks, turtles, and even bald eagles throughout the refuge's 6,729 acres.
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🌾 FarmCold Hollow Cider Mill is a quintessential Vermont family destination where kids can watch fresh apple cider being pressed, devour warm cider donuts straight from the fryer, and meet friendly farm animals in the petting area. The combination of delicious treats, hands-on learning about cider production, and outdoor exploration makes this a memorable stop that engages all the senses.
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🌳 ParkBattery Park is Burlington's crown jewel waterfront destination, offering families a perfect blend of natural beauty and active play along Lake Champlain. Kids can run freely on expansive grassy lawns, explore the sandy beach areas, and enjoy stunning views of the Adirondack Mountains while parents relax in one of Vermont's most picturesque settings.
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🎭 TheaterVermont Children's Theater brings enchanting live performances to life with productions specifically designed to captivate young audiences and families. With a strong 4.7-star rating, this beloved theater company creates magical theatrical experiences featuring engaging stories, talented performers, and age-appropriate content that introduces children to the wonder of live theater in an welcoming, interactive environment.
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🌳 ParkSand Bar State Park is a Lake Champlain gem featuring a stunning natural sandy beach with shallow, calm waters perfect for young swimmers and waders. Located just minutes from Burlington, this family-friendly state park offers expansive shoreline, grassy picnic areas, and some of the safest swimming conditions in Vermont thanks to its gradual depth and protected sandbar formation.
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Hen of the Wood Burlington offers an elevated dining experience that genuinely welcomes families, featuring a thoughtfully crafted children's menu alongside their acclaimed New American cuisine. The restaurant's warm, rustic-chic atmosphere and accommodating staff make parents feel comfortable bringing kids, while the creative, healthy options ensure even picky eaters find something delicious.
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🎨 MuseumBCA Studios offers a welcoming space where kids can explore creativity through hands-on art experiences and rotating exhibitions designed with young visitors in mind. The interactive installations encourage tactile learning, while family art classes provide structured opportunities for parents and children to create together in a supportive, non-intimidating environment.
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