A Day in South Burlington: Slow Mornings, Small Adventures, and Sweet Treats
Note: this blog was also posted by Hello Burlington.
There’s something special about a day spent exploring South Burlington's City Center. The variety of options, local flavor, and little discoveries make the city feel both vibrant and welcoming. Here’s what a perfect day can look like if you take it slow, savor the stops, and let South Burlington show off a little.
9:00 AM – Coffee at the Library
© SBVT Communications
Start with what truly matters: coffee. Bring your favorite morning brew along and head to the South Burlington Public Library just as it opens at 9 AM. It’s the kind of place that invites you to linger — sunlit reading spaces, friendly faces, and a quiet energy that makes you want to get lost in a book or browse the stacks for your next great read. Take the space to reset before the day really gets going. Grab a room to make a call, sit in a sunny corner, or start a podcast in the studio.
Midmorning Treat – Creemees at Dakin Farm
Once you've filled your mind (and maybe your tote bag) treat yourself to a Vermont classic: a creemee at Dakin Farm. Whether you’re a traditional maple purist or you like to mix it up, a Vermont-style soft serve is practically a rite of passage. It's absolutely the correct choice before lunch. No regrets.
© City of South Burlington
Late Morning – A Stroll Through City Center Park
After a sweet pick‑me‑up, head over to City Center Park. It’s one of those green spaces that feels tucked away just enough to be peaceful, while humming with birds and other fauna. Take a loop around the paths by the ponds, over the wetlands and through the forest, or just enjoy one of the many goose sculptures. It's a little oasis of green right in the middle of the city.
Coffee Boost – Healthy Living Market & Café
Next, swing by Healthy Living for a second coffee (this is a judgment‑free blog). Their café has plenty of options whether you’re craving something bright and caffeinated or something a little more indulgent. Plus, the buzz of the market is energizing — it’s a great place to take a breather before moving on.
Lunch – The Scale, Bliss Bee, or EcoBean
By now, you’ve earned a solid lunch. South Burlington has no shortage of great spots, but you can’t go wrong with one of these:
The Scale for a poké bowl, with lots of fixings - whether spicy or crunchy, they offer loads of flavor.
Bliss Bee if you’re in a fast farm to table burger and fries mood, whether classic, chicken or plant‑based, your style is covered.
EcoBean for delicious, gluten‑free, wraps, salads, soups and smoothies.
Any of these options will set you up right for an afternoon adventure.
Afternoon – Thrifting at Replays and Play It Again Sports
Time to treasure hunt. Start at Replays, where you can browse everything from retro houseware to last year's clothing. Then head over to Play It Again Sports, to level up your gear without breaking the bank. You never know what gems you’ll uncover — and that’s half the fun. Bonus points if you check out Vintage Inspired Marketplace for an ever-changing curated selection of home goods and ephemera.
Late Afternoon – Treat Yourself at Bijou Blu Spa
End your day on a high note with a visit to Bijou Blu. Book yourself a micro spa session for personalized treatment. It's the best way to wrap up your South Burlington visit.
A Day Well Spent
South Burlington shines in its mix of calm spaces, local flavor, and little moments of joy. From quiet library mornings to creemees, thrift finds, and a little evening indulgence, there’s no shortage of ways to make an ordinary day feel like something special.
© City of South Burlington
