With craft beer brewing as a centerpiece in the small city of Burlington, Vermont, this university town exudes an open-minded atmosphere in embracing the craft beer movement! Take a stroll past the old houses adorned with Tibetan prayer flags, and stop in for a flight of craft beer to taste captivating creations from the area's top brewers. From microbreweries to taprooms, discover where to satisfy your thirst exploring Burlington's craft beer scene.
Burlington, Vermont is a university town that is known for its incredible outdoor recreation and Tibetan prayer flags draped along old homes. But the city also has embraced the craft beer movement, making it the perfect spot to find your favorite drink. Whether you are looking for a traditional microbrew or something with an interesting twist, Burlington has plenty of bars and taprooms with options to suit all preferences. In this article, we will look at all of the best spots in the city to grab a pint.
Tasting Rooms, Taverns and Brewing Operations
If you are interested in trying something new, then visit the various tasting rooms, taverns and brewing operations in Burlington. These places allow you to sample a variety of craft beers, ciders, wines and spirits from local producers. Here are some of the best spots to visit:
- Foam Brewers: A laid back taproom and beer garden located in a historic section of the city.
- Vermont Pub & Brewery: Located in downtown Burlington, this locally owned bar serves a range of delicious craft beers.
- Switchback Brewing Company: Located in the South End Arts District, this microbrewery is home to several award-winning beers.
- Burlington Beer Company: Located in the city’s North End, this establishment is perfect for both beer lovers and foodies alike.
- Zero Gravity Brewing: Located in a refurbished industrial space, this family-run brewery has some truly unique beers on tap.
Sports Bars & Local Pubs
If you are looking for somewhere to enjoy a few beers and watch the game, then the city’s many sports bars and pubs are perfect for you. These casual establishments are great spots to soak in the local atmosphere and celebrate a big win. Here are some of the best spots:
- Riley's Sports Bar: A destination for sports fans, featuring over 40 TVs, games, pub food and local beers.
- Brant Street Pub: A neighborhood bar with an extensive selection of craft beers and frequent live entertainment.
- Vermont Tap House: Located on the historic Church Street Marketplace, this bar has a huge selection of beers, sports on TV and pub food.
- The Blackback Pub: A warm and friendly pub with a menu of delicious pub food, local craft beers and live music.
- Nectar's: This legendary establishment is home to legendary musicians, sports on TV and plenty of craft beer.
Local Wineries & Vineyards
If you prefer something a bit sweeter and more sophisticated, then you may want to visit one of the area’s wineries or vineyards. Burlington is home to some of the most beautiful wineries and vineyards in the country, each offering their own unique range of flavors for you to sample. Here are some of the best spots to check out:
- Frost Ridge Winery: Located in the foothills of the Green Mountains, this vineyard is known for its exceptional sparkling wines.
- Stowe Winery & Vineyard: This family-run vineyard produces some of the area’s most appealing aromatic whites.
- Boyden Valley Winery & Spirits: Located in the heart of Vermont, this winery produces some of the most highly sought after wines.
- Aquarion Hill Winery: Located in the picturesque Green Mountains, this vineyard offers a lovely selection of reds, whites and sparkling wines.
- Vermont Summit Winery: Nestled in the foothills of the Green Mountains, this winery produces some truly unique and delicious wines.
Home Brew Supplies
If you’re feeling adventurous, then why not try your hand at home brewing? Burlington is home to a few really great suppliers that offer everything you need to get started. Here are some of the best places to shop for home brewing supplies:
- The Home Vintner: This shop offers a large selection of home beer brewing equipment, ingredients and supplies.
- Homebrew Now: A home brewing shop that offers a huge selection of starter kits, supplies and equipment.