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Where to Stay in Burlington

Where to Stay in Burlington

Burlington New England, USA Travel Guide

Accommodation Types

Full Spectrum of Lodging

  • Hostels

    Limited, budget-friendly lodging with a social atmosphere, typically dorms or private rooms. Check Hostelworld for availability.

  • Motels/Inns

    Often outside immediate downtown, offering basic amenities and parking.

  • Mid-Range Hotels

    Reputable chain hotels and independent properties with comfortable rooms and standard amenities.

  • Boutique Hotels

    Charming properties with unique designs, personalized service, and local art.

Unique Local Options

  • Luxury Hotels

    High-end options with premium services and prime locations.

  • Bed & Breakfasts (B&Bs)

    Set in restored historic homes, with personalized service and gourmet breakfasts.

  • Vacation Rentals

    Apartments, houses, and rooms available through platforms like Vrbo, ideal for groups or longer stays.

  • Camping

    State Parks and private campgrounds nearby, requiring advance reservations.

Neighborhood Guide

Burlington's neighborhoods each possess a distinct character, offering different experiences and accommodation considerations.

Downtown / Waterfront

Positives
  • Central, pedestrian-friendly.
  • Walkable to attractions, dining, nightlife.
  • Public transportation access.
Challenges
  • Can be noisy.
  • Parking is difficult and costly.
  • Accommodation prices are higher.

Hill Section / UVM Area

Positives
  • Historic, scenic, quieter residential area.
  • Many Bed & Breakfasts.
  • Peaceful retreat.
Challenges
  • Longer uphill walk to downtown.
  • Fewer immediate dining options.

South End / Winooski

Positives
  • Arts, breweries, local businesses.
  • Authentic local experience.
  • Often better value for rentals.
  • Diverse dining in Winooski.
Challenges
  • Further from Church Street.
  • Driving or bus needed to central attractions.

Helpful Tip

Local Stay

For a local experience, consider a Bed & Breakfast in the historic Hill Section.

Charm and Character

The charm of these properties adds an unique dimension to your stay.

Booking Strategies

Smart booking strategies help secure your preferred accommodation and potentially save money.

Advance Booking Recommendations

  • High Season (Summer, Fall Foliage, Winter Ski Season): Book 3-6 months ahead. Prices peak and availability lessens.
  • Shoulder Season: Booking 1-2 months ahead often gives best selection and better rates.
  • Low Season: Booking 2-4 weeks ahead is usually enough. Last-minute deals may appear.
  • Seasonal Price Fluctuations: Prices for the same property can more than double between low and peak high seasons.

Booking Considerations

  • Trusted Platforms: Use Booking.com, Agoda, Expedia, Hotels.com, Airbnb, and Vrbo.
  • Direct Booking: For boutique properties, direct booking on their website may offer better rates or packages.
  • Negotiation Customs: Negotiating walk-in rates is not common practice in the U.S.
  • Cancellation Policies: Always check specific deposit and cancellation terms. Note non-refundable rates often cost less but have no flexibility.

Important Considerations

Peak Season Planning
  • Accommodation prices rise significantly during peak periods.
  • Popular hotels and vacation rentals fill quickly.
  • Early booking is highly recommended.
Flexibility
  • Opt for free cancellation policies where possible for travel plan changes.
  • Non-refundable rates are usually lower but strict.

Notice on Last-Minute Bookings

Availability

Last-minute rooms during high season are rare.

Pricing

Prices for last-minute bookings can be higher.

Flexibility

Limited choice on location or amenities.

Accommodation Recommendations

Here are some examples of well-regarded accommodations in Burlington, catering to different budgets and traveler types. Always check current availability and recent reviews.

Budget & Mid-Range Picks

Budget

For value-conscious travelers.

  • Starlight Inn (South Burlington): Motel style with good value, often parking and basic amenities.
  • Hostels: Search on Hostelworld for limited options and availability.
Mid-Range

Comfort and standard services.

Luxury & Unique Picks

Luxury

Premium services and locations.

  • Hotel Vermont (Downtown): Modern boutique hotel focused on local design and amenities.
  • The Willard Street Inn (Hill Section): Historic Bed & Breakfast offering a luxurious experience.
Unique Local Stays

Distinctive and authentic experiences.

  • Vacation Rentals (Airbnb/Vrbo): Offer more space, private kitchens, and a local living experience.
  • TrustedHousesitters: Explore house/pet sitting exchanges for a different kind of stay.

Family & Solo Traveler Options

  • Family-Friendly

    Holiday Inn Express South Burlington: Often has pools, breakfast, good family value. Vacation rentals suit families needing space and kitchens.

  • Solo Travelers

    Hostels (when available) offer social opportunities. Downtown hotels provide direct access to attractions and dining.

  • Long-Stay Accommodations

    Extended Stay America (South Burlington) for kitchenettes. Vacation rentals through Airbnb/Vrbo often have weekly/monthly discounts.

  • Cultural & Historical

    The Willard Street Inn (1881 mansion) offers a stay rich in history. Boutique hotels blend local art and design.

Other Accommodation Types

  • Eco-Friendly Stays

    Seek out properties with green certifications or stated sustainability practices for an environmentally conscious stay.

  • Pet-Friendly Places

    Many hotels and vacation rentals welcome pets. Confirm policies and any additional fees when booking.

  • Mountain View Retreats

    Some properties outside the city center or in the Hill Section feature stunning views of the nearby Green Mountains.

  • Lakefront Access

    Limited but desirable options exist directly on Lake Champlain, offering private docks or direct beach access.

Accessibility & Special Needs

Wheelchair Access

Many newer hotels and public buildings comply with accessibility standards. Always verify specific room features and common area access.

  • Inquire about roll-in showers.
  • Confirm accessible parking spaces.
  • Check for elevator access to all floors.
Hearing/Visual Impairment

Some accommodations may offer TTY devices, visual alarms, or braille signage. Call ahead to discuss specific needs.

  • Request visual fire alarms.
  • Confirm availability of accessible rooms.

Accommodation Search Filters

Price Range

Filter by budget to narrow down options quickly.

Amenities

Select desired amenities like pools, fitness centers, or complimentary breakfast.

Location

Choose preferred neighborhoods or proximity to specific attractions.