MileHacker Logo
Accommodation Guide

Accommodation Guide

Vermont, USA

Accommodation Types

Types of Accommodation

  • Hostels

    Mainly in Burlington, budget-friendly shared or private rooms, good for social atmosphere.

  • Motels

    Along main routes, basic, affordable lodging with convenient parking.

  • Boutique Hotels

    Unique, independently owned with distinct character and personalized service (e.g., Hotel Vermont).

  • Chain Hotels

    Major brands in Burlington and surrounding towns, consistent standards and amenities.

Unique Stays & Rentals

  • Historic Inns & Bed & Breakfasts (B&Bs)

    Charming, family-run establishments for intimate, personalized stays, typically include breakfast.

  • Luxury Hotels & Resorts

    High-end properties with extensive amenities, fine dining, spa services (e.g., The Essex).

  • Farm Stays

    Working farms with guest accommodations, giving a rural experience and connection to agriculture.

  • Vacation Rentals & Apartments

    Available via platforms like Vrbo, giving private homes or apartments with more space and amenities.

Neighborhood Guide

Each area has a distinct character, benefits, and drawbacks.

Downtown Burlington

Benefits
  • Central to dining, shopping (Church Street Marketplace), nightlife, and waterfront activities.
  • Very walkable with easy access to many attractions.
  • Main hub for Green Mountain Transit buses.
  • Immediate access to Lake Champlain and ECHO, Leahy Center.
Considerations
  • Can be noisy, especially on weekends and evenings.
  • Parking can be challenging and expensive.
  • Accommodation prices are higher.
  • Lively ambiance, sometimes with street performers or live music.

South End Arts District

Benefits
  • Unique local, artistic vibe away from main tourist crowds.
  • Home to artist studios, galleries, and breweries.
  • Often quieter than downtown.
  • Many craft breweries and unique shops.
Considerations
  • Further from main downtown attractions.
  • Less direct transit access.
  • Needs a short drive or bike ride to downtown.
  • Some activity near breweries, but generally relaxed.

Hill Section Burlington

Benefits
  • Historic, residential, with tree-lined streets.
  • Scenic and quieter.
  • Charming architecture, grand Victorian homes.
  • A more serene environment.
Considerations
  • Mainly residential with fewer commercial services.
  • Needs more walking or driving to reach downtown attractions.
  • Limited dining options.
  • Peaceful ambiance, reflecting its residential nature.

Safety & Proximity

Safety Notes

All listed areas are generally safe. Standard urban precautions apply, especially regarding securing valuables and being aware of your surroundings when walking alone at night. Crime rates are low.

Transportation & Access

Downtown Burlington is best for walkability to major attractions. Essex/Williston is best with a car, for easy access to the airport and major highways for regional exploration.

Booking Strategies

Good booking strategies secure your preferred accommodation, specifically during busy times.

Advance Booking Guidelines

  • Fall Foliage (Late September-Mid October): Book 3-6 months ahead. Hotels often sell out.
  • Summer (July-August): Book 1-3 months ahead, especially for weekends or popular events.
  • Winter (Ski Season/Holidays): Book 1-2 months ahead for specific dates around holidays.
  • Spring & Late Fall (Shoulder/Low Season): Availability a few weeks out, possibly last-minute deals.

Booking Platforms & Policies

  • Online Travel Agencies: Booking.com, Agoda, and Hostelworld are widely used.
  • Direct Hotel Websites: Often have best rate guarantees or special packages, check IHG Hotels.
  • Vacation Rentals: Airbnb and Vrbo are main platforms for private homes.
  • Policies: Always check specific deposit and cancellation policies for each property.

Pricing & Negotiation

Seasonal Price Fluctuations
  • Prices are significantly higher during Fall Foliage and Summer.
  • Prices are moderate during Winter, excluding major holidays.
  • Prices are lowest during Spring ("mud season") and late Fall ("stick season").
  • Negotiation for walk-in rates is generally not customary for hotels.
Local Resources
  • The Lake Champlain Regional Chamber of Commerce website (vermont.org) is a good resource.
  • The Vermont Tourism Network helps find local options, including smaller B&Bs.
  • TrustedHousesitters for house/pet sitting exchanges.
  • Booking online in advance often secures the best rates.

Important Advice

Check Reviews

Always check recent reviews and photos on booking platforms to verify accommodation quality.

Location Matters

Pay attention to location details relative to the attractions you plan to visit for convenience.

Confirm Policies

Confirm specific deposit requirements and cancellation policies before finalizing any booking.

Accommodation Recommendations

Top picks for different budget levels and traveler types in the Champlain Valley.

Budget Friendly

Burlington Hostel

Downtown Burlington, walkable, basic amenities, good for meeting others.

  • Estimated Price: $30 - $60 (dorm bed)
  • Social atmosphere.
  • Shared facilities.
  • Good for solo travelers.
Vermont State Parks Camping

Grand Isle, Malletts Bay, Button Bay - scenic, outdoor focused.

  • Estimated Price: $20 - $35 (campsite)
  • Basic facilities.
  • Book ahead.
  • Great for outdoor lovers.

Mid-Range Comfort

Courtyard Burlington Harbor

Downtown Burlington, good amenities, some lake views, reliable chain hotel.

  • Estimated Price: $180 - $300
  • Reliable chain hotel.
  • Central location.
  • Good for families.
Hotel Vermont

Downtown Burlington, boutique style, farm-to-table dining, popular for its unique character.

  • Estimated Price: $220 - $350
  • Unique character.
  • Lively atmosphere.
  • Popular local choice.

Family Friendly Options

  • Vacation Rentals

    Space, kitchens, multiple bedrooms, good for families.

  • The Essex, Vermont's Culinary Resort & Spa

    Activities, pools, spacious accommodations suitable for families.

  • Hilton Burlington Lake Champlain

    Indoor pool, convenient downtown location for city access.

  • Vermont State Parks Campgrounds

    Outdoor adventure, budget-friendly, activities like swimming and hiking.

Solo Traveler Recommendations

  • Burlington Hostel

    Has opportunities to meet other travelers in a social environment.

  • Boutique Hotels (e.g., Hotel Vermont)

    Often have lively common areas, bars, and a local feel, which can be welcoming.

  • B&Bs

    Can have a welcoming, social atmosphere with hosts providing local recommendations.

  • Motels

    Practical for budget-conscious solo travelers passing through.

Long-Stay & Cultural Significance

Long-Stay Accommodations

Extended stay hotels (like Homewood Suites) or vacation rentals are great for longer visits.

  • Suites with kitchenettes.
  • Many vacation rentals have weekly or monthly discounts.
  • More home-like experience with kitchens and living areas.
  • Suitable for stays of a week or longer.
Culturally Significant Properties

Properties like The Willard Street Inn or Lang House on Main Street give historic charm.

  • Historic mansions and Victorian B&Bs.
  • Glimpse into Burlington's past.
  • Unique architectural and cultural heritage.
  • Many B&Bs are in beautifully restored historic homes.

Important Advice

Reviews & Photos

Always check recent reviews and photos on booking platforms to verify the accommodation meets your expectations.

Location Details

Pay attention to location details relative to the attractions you plan to visit for convenience.

Book Direct

Consider booking directly through hotel websites for potential best rates and personalized service.