Burlington is a beautiful, picturesque Vermont city that looks like something out of a Norman Rockwell painting. Located just slightly south of the LGBTQ-friendly mecca of Montreal on the eastern shores of Lake Champlain, Burlington is a progressive, welcoming, and diverse city where all can find their place and feel at home.
A Look at Burlington’s History
Burlington is the largest city in Vermont. It was initially chartered in 1763 by the then-governor of New Hampshire and was named for the Burling family who were pioneer landowners at the time. It began as an important military post and eventually grew into an important port city due to its location on the shores of Lake Champlain. It has experienced steady growth and has been an important center of manufacturing, education, and tourism in the state. Today, Burlington is a progressive and eclectic city and one that is also very environmentally friendly. In fact, in 2015, Burlington became the first city in the United States to run entirely on renewable energy. If you're thinking of finding your next home in Burlington, chances are you'll find much to love about it!
A Few Fun Facts About Burlington
Read more fun facts about Burlington here.
Burlington’s LGBTQ Community
Burlington is a city that loves and supports its LGBTQ community with a variety of resources, including:
The Pride Center of Vermont is the most comprehensive community center in the region. It is dedicated to advancing the interests of the LGBTQ community, to celebrating each person for who they are, and helping all to feel supported, encouraged, and welcomed. It is truly a pillar of the LGBTQ community in Burlington and a great way to get involved and feel connected.
What's the Weather Like in Burlington?
Those who decide to live in Burlington should expect plenty of snow and cold weather in the winter. In fact, the city averages 72 inches of snow each year, and the average low temperature in January is 9°F. The trade-off for that fierce winter weather, however, is mild and pleasant weather in the summer, and for much of the rest of the year. High temperatures in July typically reach around 81°F. Spring and fall are also very pleasant times to enjoy the outdoors, with spring bringing beautiful blooms, and fall bringing the bright colors of changing leaves.
Can’t-Miss Events in Burlington
The Festival of Fools is a unique Burlington tradition. It is known for featuring some of the best international street performers from around the globe and during this festival, the downtown district is transformed into a world of foolish fun. Typically, there are over 100 performances to entertain visitors and residents alike. It’s definitely one event you’ll want to be sure to put on your calendar.
Vermont Pride Parade and Festival
Vermont Pride is the Burlington area’s annual celebration of its LGBTQ community. Whether you enjoy parties, parades, family-friendly activities, networking opportunities, or all of the above, you can find it here. It’s one event you’ll want to be sure to put on your calendar!
The annual Winter is a Drag Ball is a unique LGBTQ Burlington tradition that always promises to provide plenty of fun, and the opportunity to enjoy a night of festivities including music, dancing, drag queens and kings and more.
Where to Live in Burlington
Much of the LGBTQ community in Burlington is centered in the post-industrial section of the city, which is a mix of artist warehouses, new condominiums, and renovated single-family homes. While this area of town is particularly popular, there are many wonderful neighborhoods across the city which are popular with the LGBTQ community, and all of which are welcoming, diverse, and friendly. As a result, the perfect neighborhood will largely be a matter of personal preference and lifestyle needs. Consulting with a gay realtor in Burlington who knows the city and the LGBTQ community well is the perfect way to find a home that you’ll love.
Arts and Entertainment
The South End Arts and Business Association (SEBA) sponsors many events throughout the year, to support and encourage the vibrant arts community in the city. One of these events is the South End Art Hop. Participants can enjoy visiting a variety of art galleries and businesses throughout the South End during this very popular event.
The Lyric Theatre Company is a popular performing arts group in Burlington that puts on a wide variety of performances in many genres throughout the year. Don’t miss the chance to enjoy a show for yourself – it's always sure to be entertaining, inspiring, and fun.
Parks and Recreation
Burlington is a very beautiful city with numerous biking and walking paths along the shores of Lake Champlain, many of which have playgrounds, hiking trails, and re-naturalized wild grounds. Any of these parks are wonderful spots to enjoy a beautiful Burlington afternoon!
Echo Lake Aquarium and Science Center
Environmentally-conscious people will love the Echo Lake Aquarium and Science Center, which is located on the waterfront and keeps over seventy species of fish, amphibians, reptiles and invertebrates. It’s a wonderful place to spend an afternoon being educated, entertained, and inspired.
Burlington Nightlife
Red Square is a popular late-night hot spot in the city known for its excellent DJs, lively dancing, and a great line-up of live bands. It's always a great place to stop on a night out in Burlington!
Three Needs Tap Room is a chill Burlington bar known for its pool tables, local microbrews, and friendly crowds. It’s a great place to relax and enjoy a fun night out with old friends, or meet some new ones!
Contact a Burlington Gay Realtor Today
If you're ready to make a move to Burlington, at www.gayrealestate.com, we're here to help you take the first step toward finding an agent who knows and loves the community, and who can help you find a home and a neighborhood you'll love. We're proud to have a network of excellent realtors in Burlington, and we would love to help connect you with the right one. Contact a Burlington gay realtor today for a free, no-obligation consultation!
