When visiting Burlington, Vermont, and looking for a way to explore at your own pace, this smartphone-guided walking tour offers a practical and engaging option. For $27.50 per group, up to 15 people, you get to stroll through key neighborhoods and landmarks, from the scenic waterfront to the bustling Church Street Marketplace. The tour lasts around one to one-and-a-half hours, making it an approachable way to soak up the city’s charm without feeling rushed or overwhelmed.
What makes this experience stand out? First, we appreciate the self-guided format, which means you can go as slowly or quickly as you want, stopping to enjoy each site or skip ahead. Second, the family-friendly stops and questions ensure everyone, from kids to history buffs, stays engaged. Plus, the 24/7 support via phone and email adds peace of mind if questions pop up during your walk.
A key consideration is that the tour is entirely written content and questions—no audio narration is included yet (as of summer 2022). If you’re someone who prefers a guided voice, you might find this format less immersive. Also, the price might seem high to budget travelers who prefer free or cheaper options, especially given the lack of included admission tickets for some sites. But for those wanting a flexible, independent way to learn about Burlington’s highlights and history, this tour offers good value.
This experience is well-suited for families, history lovers, or first-time visitors who want to explore Burlington’s most iconic spots on their own schedule. It’s also perfect if you prefer walking at your own pace, stopping for photos or snacks whenever you like, and avoiding crowded bus tours.
Key Points
- Flexible self-guided experience allows you to explore at your own pace.
- Family-friendly stops and questions keep all ages engaged.
- Includes key sites like Lake Champlain, City Hall Park, and Church Street Marketplace.
- 24/7 support provides peace of mind during your walk.
- Cost reflects a written, independent tour without audio narration or included admission fees.
- Suitable for first-time visitors and those wanting an authentic local feel.
An Introduction to Burlington’s Charm and the Tour Concept
Burlington might be Vermont’s largest city, but it’s also a friendly, walkable place packed with history, culture, and beautiful scenery. This smartphone-guided tour offers a modern twist—you download the route onto your phone and explore at your leisure, rather than joining a group led by a guide with a megaphone. Starting at Waterfront Park on Lake Champlain, you’ll meander through the city’s most notable sites, ending at the lively Church Street Marketplace.
This approach has its advantages. We loved the freedom to linger at sites that catch your eye, whether it’s the scenic lake views or the historic Follett House. The written stories and questions are a smart way to learn, especially if you enjoy reading and reflecting as you walk. Plus, the support system means you’re not left to figure things out on your own.
Considering the cost of $27.50, it’s a fair deal if you’re a curious traveler who values local insights over a guided tour with a voice. We especially appreciate that it’s family friendly—kids can engage with the questions, and everyone can follow their own interests.
On the flip side, some might find the lack of audio narration a drawback, since listening to a guide often enriches the experience. Also, if you’re expecting free sites or included tickets, you should note that some attractions’ admission isn’t included in the price.
This tour best suits independent explorers who want a personalized, educational walk and don’t mind reading on their own. It’s especially good for those who enjoy history, local culture, or scenic views and want to pace themselves.
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A Detailed Breakdown of the Itinerary
Stop 1: Lake Champlain
Your journey begins at Waterfront Park, where the expansive Lake Champlain stretches before you. The views alone are worth the start—they’re iconic Vermont and offer a peaceful introduction. The tour transports you back in time, reflecting on the land long before European settlers arrived. This is a perfect spot for a quick photo and to set your mind to the story of Burlington’s natural environment.
Stop 2: ECHO Leahy Center for Lake Champlain
Next, a brief visit to the ECHO Center provides insight into how Vermonters cherish and protect their land. The stop is only about 5 minutes, but the stories shared here about the environment and conservation efforts are meaningful. Note that the admission ticket isn’t included, so plan accordingly if you want to explore further inside.
Stop 3: Follett House
Moving to Follett House, we step into Vermont history. This mansion, built from the wealth of Vermont’s industrial era, showcases the grandeur of Burlington’s past. The story of Follett himself intertwines with the state’s development, adding a personal touch to your walk.
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Stop 4: 95 College St (University of Vermont)
One of Burlington’s defining institutions, the University of Vermont, is a hub of innovation and local culture. The street itself tells stories of the university’s influence, as well as Burlington’s inventive spirit. The tour highlights some unique inventions from local history, which adds a playful element for those interested in innovation.
Stop 5: City Hall Park
City Hall Park is a prime example of early urban planning. Burlington’s pioneering efforts with public spaces created a lively hub for residents—music, gatherings, and civic life. The stories here give insight into how Burlington helped shape the modern American city.
Stop 6: Flynn Center for the Performing Arts
The Flynn Center is a cultural treasure, hosting everything from musicals to comedy. While you can’t go inside on the tour, the stories of past performers and quirky events make it feel alive. It’s a reminder of Burlington’s vibrant arts scene.
Stop 7: Courthouse Plaza
Though in the daytime, this stop adds some local folklore and ghost stories, making it a fun, slightly spooky break. It’s a reminder that history isn’t always just about dates and facts but also about stories that linger in old buildings.
Stop 8: Burlington City Arts Center
The City Arts Center offers a lively glimpse into Vermont’s creative talent. The revolving galleries showcase local artists, making it a great place to get inspired or pick up a unique souvenir.
Stop 9: Church Street Marketplace
No visit to Burlington is complete without a walk through Church Street Marketplace. This pedestrian-only neighborhood is lively with shops, cafes, and street performers. The tour explains how it transformed from a historic street into a bustling hub of local entrepreneurship and culture.
Stop 10: First Unitarian Universalist Society of Burlington
Your walk concludes at one of Burlington’s oldest buildings, tying the city’s history back to its spiritual and community roots. It’s a fitting end to a tour that highlights both the past and present of this vibrant city.
What Travelers Say: Authentic Perspectives
One reviewer called the experience “very worthwhile,” appreciating how it allowed them to see the highlights of the city at their own pace. They felt that the written content was “great for learning about Burlington and Vermont,” though they wished for an audio guide to enhance immersion. Others, however, found the price steep, noting that it was “super expensive for what we got” and suggesting a lower cost (~$10) for similar content.
Many appreciated the ability to relax and read at each stop, as one review pointed out: “The tour guidance and historical content were entirely written. We took our time to relax and read the material,” which is perfect if you’re a reader or don’t like being rushed.
The family-friendly nature was also a major plus, with visitors stating that it was “perfect for learning about Burlington, seeing some sites, and walking around,” making it ideal for a casual day of sightseeing without the pressure of a guided group.
Practical Details: What to Expect
Duration: Just over an hour, with flexible pacing. This makes it manageable for a quick visit or an afternoon stroll.
Price: $27.50 per group, which covers access to the written content and questions. Keep in mind, some site admissions aren’t included, so budget accordingly if you plan to visit inside attractions like the ECHO Center.
Support: Around-the-clock support by phone or email adds confidence, especially if you’re unfamiliar with the area or new to self-guided tours.
Accessibility: The tour is suitable for most travelers, including those with service animals and those near public transportation hubs.
Start & End Points: Begins at Waterfront Park at 20 Lake St and concludes near the Church Street Marketplace at the First Unitarian Society.
Availability: Open daily from 7 a.m. to 7 p.m., giving you plenty of flexibility to fit the tour into your schedule.
Is This Tour Right for You?
If you’re a traveler who loves independent exploration and reading about local history and culture, this tour is a good fit. It’s especially suitable if you enjoy walking at your own pace and want a personalized experience without a guide constantly by your side. It’s also a solid choice for families or groups who want to learn together, with questions designed to engage all ages.
However, if you prefer audio narration or a more structured guided experience, this might not be the perfect fit. Budget-conscious travelers might also find it slightly pricey considering some attractions’ admission isn’t included.
Final Thoughts: Is It Worth It?
This smartphone-guided tour offers a practical way to see and understand Burlington without the constraints of a traditional guided tour. It combines flexibility, educational content, and local highlights into a single package, making it ideal for curious explorers who value self-paced learning and want to avoid large crowds.
For history buffs and families, the tour’s stops are thoughtfully selected and engaging. The ability to pause, read, and reflect makes it a relaxed way to connect with the city’s story. Plus, with support available anytime, you can enjoy your walk with confidence.
On the flip side, those expecting an audio guide or included tickets should note the current setup and consider whether the written content and personal pace are enough for their needs.
In sum, if you’re in Burlington for a day and want a low-pressure, informative stroll, this tour is worth considering. It’s a good value for those who appreciate independent exploration, local stories, and scenic views.
FAQ
Does the tour include audio narration?
No, as of summer 2022, the tour features written stories and questions but no audio guides.
Can I join this tour with my family?
Yes, it’s family-friendly, with stops and questions suitable for all ages.
How long does the tour last?
It takes about 1 hour to 1 hour and 30 minutes, depending on your pace.
Is support available if I get lost or have questions?
Yes, phone and email support are available 24/7.
Are admission fees included?
No, some attractions like the ECHO Center and Follett House require separate tickets.
What is the maximum group size?
Up to 15 people per group.
Can I start the tour at any time?
Yes, it’s available daily from 7 a.m. to 7 p.m.
Is this a private tour?
Yes, only your group will participate.
Is it suitable for travelers with mobility issues?
Most travelers can participate, but check the walking distances and terrain if you have specific mobility concerns.
To sum it up, this smartphone-guided walk of Burlington offers a relaxed, flexible way to explore Vermont’s biggest city, especially if you love learning through reading and want to set your own pace. It’s best suited for curious, independent travelers, families, and those eager to discover Burlington’s stories without the pressure of a guided group. While it’s not a fully guided experience, its thoughtful stops and support make it a valuable option for an authentic and personalized day in Vermont.