Hotels Burlington VT: Your Comprehensive Guide to Lake Champlain Stays

Welcome to Burlington, Vermont, a vibrant city nestled on the shores of Lake Champlain. Known for its stunning natural beauty, thriving arts scene, and delicious culinary offerings, Burlington is a popular destination for travelers from around the globe. And, of course, a vital part of any successful trip is finding the perfect place to stay. This comprehensive guide will walk you through the best hotels Burlington, VT has to offer, covering everything from luxurious waterfront resorts to budget-friendly options near the airport. We’ll explore different neighborhoods, amenities, and price points to help you make an informed decision and book the perfect hotel for your needs.

Why Choose Burlington, VT for Your Next Getaway?

Before diving into specific hotel recommendations, let’s take a moment to appreciate why Burlington is such a desirable travel destination. Burlington offers a unique blend of urban excitement and outdoor adventure. The city is easily walkable, with Church Street Marketplace serving as its pedestrian-friendly heart. Here, you’ll find a variety of shops, restaurants, and cafes, often featuring local artisans and Vermont products.

Beyond the city center, Lake Champlain beckons. Enjoy breathtaking sunsets, scenic boat tours, and watersports like kayaking and paddleboarding. The Burlington Greenway, a paved bike path stretching along the waterfront, is perfect for leisurely rides and stunning views. In the surrounding areas, you’ll find hiking trails, ski resorts (in winter), and charming small towns to explore.

Burlington also boasts a thriving cultural scene. The Flynn Center for the Performing Arts hosts a diverse range of performances, from Broadway shows to concerts. Several art galleries showcase the work of local and regional artists. And, of course, Vermont’s craft beer scene is well-represented in Burlington, with numerous breweries offering tours and tastings.

Activities and Attractions in Burlington:

• Church Street Marketplace: A pedestrian-only shopping and dining district.
• Lake Champlain Waterfront: Enjoy boat tours, bike rides, and stunning views.
• ECHO, Leahy Center for Lake Champlain: An interactive science museum.
• Shelburne Museum: A unique museum of art and Americana.
• Ben & Jerry’s Factory Tour: A must-do for ice cream lovers (located a short drive from Burlington).
• Magic Hat Brewing Company: Sample local craft beer.
• Waterfront Park: Enjoy concerts and events by the lake.

Understanding Burlington’s Hotel Landscape

Burlington’s hotel scene is diverse, catering to a wide range of travelers. You’ll find everything from large chain hotels with familiar amenities to charming boutique hotels offering a more personalized experience. Location is key in Burlington, so consider what activities you plan to do and choose a hotel that puts you in close proximity. Hotels near the waterfront offer stunning lake views and easy access to recreational activities. Hotels near downtown are convenient for exploring Church Street and other attractions. And hotels near the airport are ideal for those with early morning flights or short layovers.

Pricing varies depending on the time of year, the location, and the amenities offered. Summer and fall are peak seasons, so expect higher prices. Booking in advance is always recommended, especially during popular events and holidays.

Key Considerations When Choosing a Hotel:

• Location: Waterfront, downtown, airport, or surrounding areas.
• Budget: Luxury, mid-range, or budget-friendly.
• Amenities: Pool, fitness center, restaurant, free breakfast, parking, pet-friendly.
• Room Size and Type: Standard room, suite, connecting rooms.
• Reviews: Check online reviews to get insights from other travelers.

Luxury Hotels in Burlington: Indulge in Lakeside Elegance

For travelers seeking a luxurious experience, Burlington offers several high-end hotels with exceptional amenities and stunning views. These hotels typically feature spacious rooms, gourmet dining options, spas, and personalized service.

Hotel Vermont

Hotel Vermont embodies the spirit of Vermont with its rustic-chic design and focus on local products. The rooms are stylishly decorated with natural materials and Vermont-made furnishings. Juniper, the hotel’s acclaimed restaurant, serves innovative dishes using locally sourced ingredients. The hotel also offers a rooftop terrace with panoramic views of Lake Champlain and the Adirondack Mountains.

Key Features:

• Rustic-chic design
• Juniper restaurant (farm-to-table dining)
• Rooftop terrace
• Locally sourced amenities
• Excellent location near Church Street

Hotel Vermont prides itself on its sustainable practices and commitment to the local community. They offer unique experiences like guided foraging tours and cooking classes featuring Vermont ingredients.

Hilton Burlington Lake Champlain

The Hilton Burlington Lake Champlain offers a prime waterfront location with stunning views of the lake. The hotel features spacious rooms, a fitness center, an indoor pool, and multiple dining options. The on-site restaurant, Splash, offers American cuisine with a focus on seafood. The hotel is also conveniently located near the Burlington Greenway and Waterfront Park.

Key Features:

• Prime waterfront location
• Indoor pool
• Fitness center
• Splash restaurant
• Convenient access to waterfront attractions
• Meeting and event spaces

The Hilton Burlington is a popular choice for both leisure and business travelers. Its location and amenities make it a great base for exploring Burlington and attending conferences.

Courtyard Burlington Harbor

While part of a well-known chain, the Courtyard Burlington Harbor boasts a fantastic location right on the waterfront. Many rooms offer beautiful lake views. Expect clean, comfortable accommodations, an indoor pool, fitness center, and a restaurant serving breakfast and dinner. It’s a solid choice for those wanting a reliable brand name with a great location.

Key Features:

• Waterfront location
• Indoor pool
• Fitness center
• Restaurant
• Consistent Courtyard quality

Mid-Range Hotels in Burlington: Comfort and Value

For travelers seeking a balance of comfort and affordability, Burlington offers a variety of mid-range hotels. These hotels typically provide comfortable rooms, convenient amenities, and reasonable prices.

Delta Hotels by Marriott Burlington

The Delta Hotels by Marriott Burlington offers a convenient location near the airport and a short drive from downtown. The hotel features spacious rooms, a fitness center, an indoor pool, and a restaurant. It’s a great option for travelers who want to be close to the airport but still have easy access to Burlington’s attractions.

Key Features:

• Convenient location near the airport
• Indoor pool
• Fitness center
• Restaurant
• Spacious rooms
• Free airport shuttle

The Delta Hotels by Marriott Burlington is a popular choice for business travelers and families. Its amenities and location make it a great value for the price.

Hampton Inn Burlington

The Hampton Inn Burlington is another reliable option offering comfortable accommodations and a convenient location. It features a complimentary hot breakfast, a fitness center, and an indoor pool. The rooms are clean and well-maintained, and the staff is friendly and helpful. The Hampton Inn is a great choice for travelers looking for a comfortable and affordable stay.

Key Features:

• Complimentary hot breakfast
• Indoor pool
• Fitness center
• Free parking
• Reliable Hampton Inn quality

Holiday Inn Burlington

The Holiday Inn Burlington offers a solid option for travelers seeking a mid-range hotel with good amenities. Expect comfortable rooms, an on-site restaurant, an indoor pool and fitness center. The location is convenient for accessing both downtown Burlington and the airport.

Key Features:

• Indoor pool
• Fitness center
• On-site restaurant
• Convenient location
• Comfortable rooms

Budget-Friendly Hotels in Burlington: Affordable Stays

For budget-conscious travelers, Burlington offers several affordable hotels that provide clean and comfortable accommodations without breaking the bank. These hotels typically offer basic amenities and are located a bit further from the downtown area.

La Quinta Inn & Suites by Wyndham Burlington

La Quinta Inn & Suites by Wyndham Burlington offers comfortable accommodations at an affordable price. The hotel features a complimentary breakfast, a fitness center, and an indoor pool. It’s located a short drive from downtown Burlington and the airport. La Quinta is a great option for travelers who want to save money without sacrificing comfort.

Key Features:

• Complimentary breakfast
• Indoor pool
• Fitness center
• Pet-friendly
• Affordable rates

Super 8 by Wyndham Shelburne/Burlington Area

Located just south of Burlington in Shelburne, the Super 8 provides a budget-friendly option outside the city center. Expect basic amenities, clean rooms, and free breakfast. It’s a good choice for travelers on a tight budget who don’t mind being a short drive from the main attractions.

Key Features:

• Affordable rates
• Free breakfast
• Basic amenities
• Located near Shelburne attractions

Motel 6 Burlington, VT – Williston

Motel 6 offers a no-frills, budget-friendly option in Williston, a town just east of Burlington. Expect clean and basic rooms, free Wi-Fi, and a convenient location near the interstate. This is a great choice for travelers simply looking for an affordable place to sleep while exploring the Burlington area.

Key Features:

• Affordable rates
• Free Wi-Fi
• Pet-friendly (may have fees)
• Convenient location near the interstate

Pet-Friendly Hotels in Burlington: Traveling with Your Furry Friend

Burlington is a pet-friendly city, and many hotels welcome furry friends. Be sure to check the hotel’s pet policy before booking, as fees and restrictions may apply.

Hotel Vermont (Pet-Friendly)

Hotel Vermont welcomes well-behaved dogs with a special pet package that includes treats, bowls, and a comfortable bed. They also provide information on local dog-friendly parks and attractions. This is a great option for travelers who want to bring their furry friend along for a luxurious experience.

La Quinta Inn & Suites by Wyndham Burlington (Pet-Friendly)

La Quinta Inn & Suites by Wyndham Burlington is a pet-friendly hotel that welcomes dogs and cats. They have a designated pet walking area and provide waste bags. This is a great option for budget-conscious travelers who want to bring their pets along.

Other Pet-Friendly Options:

Many other hotels in Burlington offer pet-friendly accommodations. Be sure to check the hotel’s website or call ahead to confirm their pet policy and any associated fees.

Hotels Near Burlington International Airport (BTV)

For travelers with early morning flights or short layovers, staying near the Burlington International Airport (BTV) can be a convenient option. Several hotels are located within a few miles of the airport, offering easy access to flights.

Delta Hotels by Marriott Burlington (Near Airport)

As mentioned earlier, the Delta Hotels by Marriott Burlington offers a convenient location near the airport and a short drive from downtown. They also offer a free airport shuttle, making it an ideal choice for travelers flying in or out of BTV.

Quality Inn Colchester (Near Airport)

Located in Colchester, just a short drive from the airport, the Quality Inn offers comfortable accommodations at an affordable price. They offer a free airport shuttle, a complimentary breakfast, and a fitness center.

Other Hotels Near the Airport:

Several other hotels are located near the Burlington International Airport. Be sure to check online reviews and compare prices to find the best option for your needs.

Hotels Near Downtown Burlington: Explore the City Center

Staying near downtown Burlington puts you in the heart of the city’s action. You’ll be within walking distance of Church Street Marketplace, the waterfront, and many other attractions.

Hotel Vermont (Downtown)

Hotel Vermont’s excellent downtown location makes it easy to explore Burlington’s shops, restaurants, and attractions. You can easily walk to Church Street Marketplace, the waterfront, and the Flynn Center for the Performing Arts.

Hilton Burlington Lake Champlain (Downtown)

The Hilton Burlington Lake Champlain is also conveniently located near downtown Burlington. You can easily walk to Church Street Marketplace, the waterfront, and many other attractions.

Other Hotels Near Downtown:

Several other hotels are located within walking distance of downtown Burlington. Consider your budget and desired amenities when choosing a hotel in this area.

Tips for Booking the Best Hotel in Burlington

To ensure you find the perfect hotel for your needs, consider these tips:

• Book in Advance: Especially during peak season (summer and fall), booking in advance is crucial to secure the best rates and availability.
• Compare Prices: Use online travel agencies and hotel websites to compare prices and find the best deals.
• Read Reviews: Check online reviews to get insights from other travelers about their experiences at the hotel.
• Consider Location: Choose a location that is convenient for your planned activities.
• Check Amenities: Make sure the hotel offers the amenities that are important to you (e.g., pool, fitness center, free breakfast).
• Inquire About Packages: Some hotels offer special packages that include discounts on attractions or dining.
• Consider the Season: Prices and availability can vary significantly depending on the time of year.
• Check Cancellation Policies: Be sure to understand the hotel’s cancellation policy before booking.
• Direct Booking Benefits: Sometimes booking directly with the hotel can unlock perks like free breakfast or better room upgrades. Compare prices both ways.

Beyond Hotels: Alternative Accommodation Options in Burlington

While hotels are a popular choice, Burlington also offers alternative accommodation options for those seeking a different experience.

Vacation Rentals (Airbnb, VRBO)

Vacation rentals offer a great option for families or groups who want more space and privacy. You can find apartments, condos, and houses available for rent through Airbnb and VRBO. This can often be more cost-effective than booking multiple hotel rooms.

Bed and Breakfasts

Bed and breakfasts offer a more intimate and personalized experience. They typically feature unique rooms, homemade breakfasts, and friendly hosts who can provide local recommendations.

Camping

For outdoor enthusiasts, camping is a great option for exploring the Burlington area. Several campgrounds are located near Lake Champlain and in the surrounding mountains.

Exploring Beyond Burlington: Day Trips from Your Hotel

Once you’ve settled into your hotel in Burlington, consider taking some day trips to explore the surrounding area.

Stowe, Vermont

Stowe is a charming mountain town known for its skiing, hiking, and scenic beauty. Visit the Trapp Family Lodge (of “The Sound of Music” fame), hike to the top of Mount Mansfield, or explore the town’s shops and restaurants.

Shelburne, Vermont

Shelburne is home to the Shelburne Museum, a unique museum of art and Americana. You can also visit the Shelburne Farms, a working farm and educational center.

Waterbury, Vermont

Waterbury is home to the Ben & Jerry’s Factory, where you can take a tour and sample delicious ice cream. You can also visit Cold Hollow Cider Mill and sample fresh cider donuts.

The Islands of Lake Champlain

Take a ferry to the islands of Lake Champlain, such as South Hero and North Hero, and enjoy scenic views, bike rides, and local farms.

Final Thoughts on Burlington Hotels

Burlington, Vermont offers a diverse range of hotels to suit every traveler’s needs and budget. Whether you’re looking for a luxurious waterfront resort, a comfortable mid-range hotel, or an affordable budget-friendly option, you’re sure to find the perfect place to stay in this vibrant city. By considering your priorities, reading reviews, and booking in advance, you can ensure a memorable and enjoyable trip to Burlington.

We hope this comprehensive guide has been helpful in your search for the ideal hotel in Burlington, VT. Enjoy your stay and experience all that this beautiful city has to offer!