Waterfront Park Burlington
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Waterfront Park Burlington

4.7
·4k reviews·Burlington, United States

A picturesque park on Lake Champlain offering scenic boardwalks, a fantastic playground, and access to extensive bike paths.

Highlights

Highlights

Must-see attractions

Social content

Social

From TikTok & Reddit

Best Time

Spring mornings

Cherry blossoms bloom beautifully

CrowdMedium
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Waterfront Park Burlington

Waterfront Park Burlington

Best Time

Spring mornings

Cherry blossoms bloom beautifully

CrowdMedium
Highlights

Highlights

Must-see attractions

A picturesque park on Lake Champlain offering scenic boardwalks, a fantastic playground, and access to extensive bike paths.

4.7
(4k reviews)

"Gorgeous water and flowers blooming in season. Great walking and biking trails that are flat and go for miles along the water."

Vertical photo
TIP

🚶‍♀️ Stroll the Boardwalk

Enjoy flat, scenic paths perfect for walking, biking, or a leisurely stroll with pets. :athletic_shoe:

☀️ Sunset Spectacles

The waterfront offers stunning sunset views over Lake Champlain. Don't miss it! :camerawithflash:

Third hero image

Highlights

Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences

Lake Champlain Views

Lake Champlain Views

Boardwalk

Breathtaking vistas of Lake Champlain and the Adirondack Mountains. Perfect for sunset strolls.

Play Port Playground

Play Port Playground

Near the waterfront

An incredible, free playground that kids rave about. A must-visit for families seeking fun.

Cherry Blossom Trail

Cherry Blossom Trail

Spencer Smith Park (adjacent)

Wander through a fairytale-like tunnel of fragrant pink cherry blossoms in spring.

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Planning Your Visit

Embrace the Lake Life

Burlington's Waterfront Park offers stunning Lake Champlain views and activities. Consider visiting during warmer months for full access to rentals and events. Check local listings for concerts or festivals to maximize your experience.

Parking & Accessibility

Parking can be a challenge, especially during events. The Lakeview and College Street garages are options, but exploring public transport or biking the scenic path is recommended. The park is very accessible for strollers and wheelchairs.

Best Times

When
Spring mornings
Why
Cherry blossoms bloom beautifully
Crowd
Medium
When
Summer evenings
Why
Concerts and movies by the lake
Crowd
High
When
Fall afternoons
Why
Crisp air and scenic views
Crowd
Low

Insider Tips

from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit

WATERFRONT PARK PLAY PORT 📍This was the coolest park my kids and I have ever been to. If you’re looking for a free activity, this park is incredible. The kids haven’t stopped talking about it! #louisvillekentucky #louisvilleky #funthingstodoinky #funthingstodoinkentucky #loucity #FamilyFun #funthingstodo #FamilyFun #playport #kentucky #kentuckyderby #kentuckylouisville #waterfrontpark #lousiville...
@gabbypitt
33.9K likes • 762.5K views

🚶‍♀️ Stroll the Boardwalk

Enjoy flat, scenic paths perfect for walking, biking, or a leisurely stroll with pets. :athletic_shoe:

☀️ Sunset Spectacles

The waterfront offers stunning sunset views over Lake Champlain. Don't miss it! :camerawithflash:

one of my fav @Noah Kahan songs #stickseason #noahkahan #growingsideways #stickseasonnoahkahan #burlington #vermont #waterfrontpark #crowd
@uncle_junie
18.8K likes • 95.3K views
While our campus provides some beautiful views of Burlington and the surrounding mountains, nothing beats the view from the edge Lake Champlain. Waterfront Park provides stunning views year-round and offers a great place to sit and enjoy nature. Just a little over a mile from campus, the waterfront draws so many people and students to Burlington, and it’s clear to see why! #btv #burlingtonVT #UVM...
universityofvermont
3K likes • 60.6K views

🚲 Bike Rentals Available

Rent an electric bike to explore the miles of trails along the water. :electric_plug:

🐶 Dog-Friendly Fun

A great spot for dogs, but be mindful of leash rules as some owners let dogs off-leash. :dog:

A Sunny Penguin Plunge at Waterfront Park "The Williston Wildcats have raised over eleven thousand dollars" Come see the annual Penguin Plunge charity event for Special Olympics Vermont on a warm, sunny morning in Burlington VT on 2025/02/08.
beautifulscenicburlington
3 likes • 320 views

Tips

from all over the internet

🚶‍♀️ Stroll the Boardwalk

Enjoy flat, scenic paths perfect for walking, biking, or a leisurely stroll with pets. :athletic_shoe:

☀️ Sunset Spectacles

The waterfront offers stunning sunset views over Lake Champlain. Don't miss it! :camerawithflash:

🚲 Bike Rentals Available

Rent an electric bike to explore the miles of trails along the water. :electric_plug:

🐶 Dog-Friendly Fun

A great spot for dogs, but be mindful of leash rules as some owners let dogs off-leash. :dog:

🚗 Parking Strategy

Parking can be tough; consider garages like Lakeview or College Street. :parking:

What Travellers Say

4.7
(4k reviews)

Reviews Summary

Visitors consistently praise Waterfront Park for its stunning Lake Champlain views, accessible boardwalk, and family-friendly Play Port playground. It's a clean, beautiful space perfect for walks, picnics, and enjoying sunsets. Some note it can feel crowded with dogs, and parking requires planning.

"Nice walk all along the water. Good views even on a rainy day. Gorgeous water and flowers blooming in season. Nice Rube Goldberg museum for kids. Great walking and biking trails that are flat and go for miles along the water with dog parks along the way"

Kevin Markman

"Kids and pet friendly. Wheelchair and strollers can use it. You can rent an electric bike to ride. You can have picnic on the grassbor seat in one of the benches or swings along the boardwalk."

Minerva Galarza

"A very clean and beautiful boardwalk. Great place to watch a sunset or take a walk."

Dennis G

What People Like

Beautiful lake views
Great playground
Clean and accessible

What People Dislike

Dog off-leash issues
Parking challenges

Frequently Asked Questions

🚇 🗺️ Getting There

Waterfront Park is easily accessible in Burlington, VT. Many visitors arrive via the scenic Burlington Bike Path, which runs along the waterfront. If driving, parking is available in nearby garages like Lakeview or College Street, though these can fill up quickly during peak times. Public transport options are also available.

Yes, Burlington's public transit system serves the area near Waterfront Park. Check the Green Mountain Transit website for specific routes and schedules that will get you close to the park.

The park features flat, paved paths perfect for walking, running, or biking. Bike rentals, including electric bikes, are available nearby, allowing you to explore the extensive Burlington Bike Path.

Yes, there are parking garages such as Lakeview Garage and College Street Parking Garage. However, these can become crowded, especially during events. Arriving early or considering alternative transportation is advised.

Absolutely! The Burlington Bike Path is a major feature and connects to Waterfront Park, offering a beautiful and convenient way to arrive, especially if you're coming from other parts of the city or nearby areas.

🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry

Waterfront Park is a public park and generally free to enter. There are no admission tickets required for general access to the park, boardwalk, and playground. :ticket:

Waterfront Park is typically open from dawn until dusk, offering year-round access. Specific facilities like rental shops may have seasonal hours.

While the park itself is free, tickets may be required for specific events like concerts or festivals held at the Waterfront. It's best to check the Burlington City events calendar for details.

Generally, there are no strict entry restrictions. However, standard park rules regarding noise, littering, and pet leashes apply. :scroll:

You can't book entry to the park itself, but if you're interested in activities like sailing lessons or kayak rentals, it's a good idea to check availability and potentially book in advance, especially during peak season.

🎫 🏞️ Onsite Experience

You can enjoy a scenic walk or bike ride on the boardwalk, rent kayaks and canoes, take sailing lessons, or let kids explore the fantastic Play Port playground. Picnics on the grass or benches are also popular. TikTokInstagram

Absolutely! The Play Port playground is a huge hit with kids, and the flat, accessible paths are great for strollers. It's a fantastic free family outing. TikTok

The boardwalk offers stunning views of Lake Champlain, especially at sunset. The Play Port playground is also a fun backdrop for family photos. Instagram

Yes, there are numerous benches and swings along the boardwalk and throughout the park, offering plenty of spots to sit, relax, and enjoy the water views. Reddit

Waterfront Park is dog-friendly, but it's important to keep your dog on a leash. Some visitors note that it can feel like a dog park due to off-leash dogs. Reddit

🍽️ 🍽️ Food & Dining

While the park itself doesn't have dedicated restaurants, it's located adjacent to downtown Burlington, which offers a wide array of dining options. You can also find food trucks or vendors during special events. TikTok

Yes, picnicking is a popular activity. There are grassy areas and benches perfect for enjoying a meal with a view of the lake. Reddit

Events like the R&B & Chill Wing Festival often feature food trucks offering diverse options, from jerk wings to other festival favorites. Instagram

Yes, the nearby Church Street Marketplace and surrounding downtown area have numerous cafes, perfect for grabbing coffee or a snack before or after visiting the park. Instagram

During special events or festivals, vendors may offer beverages. Otherwise, it's best to bring your own or visit nearby establishments for drinks.

📸 📸 Photography

Golden hour, especially during sunrise and sunset, offers the most dramatic lighting for capturing the lake and skyline. Spring is ideal for cherry blossom photography. Instagram+1

The boardwalk with its expansive lake views, the Play Port playground, and the adjacent Spencer Smith Park during cherry blossom season are prime photo locations. TikTokInstagram

Drone usage is typically regulated in public parks. It's advisable to check local ordinances and park rules regarding drone operation before flying. TikTok

A wide-angle lens is great for capturing the expansive lake views. A telephoto lens can be useful for wildlife or distant cityscapes. A tripod is recommended for sunset shots. :camerawithflash:

The park hosts various events throughout the year, like the Penguin Plunge, which offer unique and lively photo opportunities. Instagram

For Different Travelers

Tailored advice for your travel style

👨‍👩‍👧 Families with Kids

Waterfront Park is a dream for families! The Play Port playground is a massive hit, offering free, imaginative fun that kids absolutely love. TikTok The park's flat, accessible paths are perfect for strollers, and there are plenty of benches for parents to relax. You can easily spend hours here with the kids enjoying the playground and the lake views. Reddit

Consider packing a picnic to enjoy on the grass, as there are no dedicated restaurants within the park itself, but plenty of nearby options. The accessibility and free nature of the park make it a top choice for budget-friendly family outings in Burlington. TikTok

🚶‍♀️ Solo Travelers & Couples

For solo travelers or couples, Waterfront Park offers a serene escape. Enjoy peaceful walks along the boardwalk, taking in the stunning Lake Champlain views and the distant Adirondack Mountains. Instagram It's an ideal spot for quiet contemplation, reading a book, or simply enjoying a beautiful sunset. Instagram

Consider renting a bike to explore the extensive Burlington Bike Path at your own pace, or find a cozy bench to watch the sailboats. The park provides a tranquil setting to unwind and soak in the natural beauty of Vermont. Reddit

🐶 Pet Owners

Waterfront Park is a great destination for dog owners, offering ample space for your furry friends to enjoy. The flat, paved paths are perfect for walks, and there are grassy areas for them to explore. Reddit While generally dog-friendly, be aware that some visitors mention that dogs are sometimes off-leash, so keep an eye on your pet. Reddit

There are also dog parks located along the waterfront trails, providing dedicated areas for dogs to play. It's a wonderful place to get some exercise and fresh air with your canine companion. :dog:

Deep Dives

In-depth insights and expert knowledge

Exploring the Burlington Bike Path

The Burlington Bike Path is a major draw, stretching for miles along the scenic Lake Champlain shoreline. This paved, multi-use path is perfect for cycling, jogging, or a leisurely stroll. It connects various points of interest, including Waterfront Park, and offers continuous, stunning views of the water and the Adirondack Mountains in the distance. Reddit

Rentals for bikes, including electric options, are readily available near the park, making it easy to hop on and explore. The path is well-maintained and accessible for all ages and abilities, making it a truly inclusive experience. Many visitors highlight it as a key reason for enjoying the waterfront area. Reddit

Whether you're looking for a short walk or an extended ride, the Burlington Bike Path provides a fantastic way to experience the natural beauty and active lifestyle of Burlington, VT. It's a must-do for anyone visiting the waterfront area. Reddit

Family Fun at the Play Port

For families visiting Waterfront Park, the Play Port playground is an absolute highlight. Described as one of the coolest parks, it offers an incredible free activity for children. TikTok The playground is designed to spark imagination and provide hours of entertainment, making it a destination in itself for kids. TikTok

Parents and guardians appreciate that it's a safe and engaging space for their children to burn energy while enjoying the park's atmosphere. The sheer enthusiasm from kids who have visited is a testament to its appeal. It’s a perfect spot for a family outing, ensuring that the younger visitors have as much fun as the adults. TikTok

This free amenity significantly enhances the family-friendly nature of Waterfront Park, making it an attractive option for those traveling with children. It’s a place where kids can create lasting memories while parents can relax and enjoy the surroundings. TikTok

Seasonal Beauty: Cherry Blossoms and Fall Colors

While Waterfront Park itself is beautiful year-round, its adjacent Spencer Smith Park in Burlington, Ontario, offers spectacular seasonal displays. In the spring, the park transforms into a fairytale landscape with a pathway lined with cherry blossoms, creating a fragrant pink tunnel. TikTok This is a prime time for photographers and nature lovers. TikTok

During the fall, the park and surrounding areas offer crisp air and vibrant foliage, making it an ideal time for scenic walks and enjoying the changing colors of Lake Champlain. Instagram Visitors often praise the park's ability to provide beautiful views regardless of the season, from the blooming flowers to the serene winter landscapes. Instagram

These seasonal highlights add another layer of appeal to visiting the Burlington waterfront, encouraging repeat visits throughout the year to experience its diverse natural beauty. TikTok

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