Vermont is a small New England state of extraordinary natural beauty, famous for fiery fall foliage, world-class ski resorts, covered wooden bridges, and a thriving farm-to-table food culture. Burlington, its largest city, sits on the eastern shore of Lake Champlain and buzzes with craft breweries and independent shops. From the rolling Green Mountains to maple-syrup farms and award-winning cheese dairies, Vermont rewards travelers who seek authenticity over spectacle.
At a glance
Bars & pubs
Where locals drink.
Juniper Bar at Hotel Vermont
Known for: All-Vermont spirits craft cocktails; curated local beers; Lake Champlain views
41 Cherry St, Burlington, VT 05401
Drink (Burlington)
Known for: Craft cocktails; intimate bar atmosphere; Vermont spirits focus
135 St Paul St, Burlington, VT 05401
Zero Gravity Craft Brewery
Known for: Award-winning Vermont craft beer (Conehead IPA, Little Wolf); large outdoor beer garden
716 Pine St, Burlington, VT 05401
Nectar's (Nectars)
Known for: Vermont music legend — where Phish got their start; live music nightly; famous Nectar's gravy fries
188 Main St, Burlington, VT 05401
Higher Ground
Known for: Vermont's premier live music venue; national and regional acts; capacity 600+
1214 Williston Rd, South Burlington, VT 05403
Radio Bean
Known for: Eclectic Burlington music cafe; live music almost every night (folk, jazz, indie, bluegrass); coffee by day, beer/wine by night
8 N Winooski Ave, Burlington, VT 05401
McGillicuddy's Pub
Known for: Stowe's liveliest après-ski bar; live music weekends; 20+ draft beers; Irish pub atmosphere
5084 Main St, Stowe, VT 05672
The Matterhorn Bar & Restaurant
Known for: Stowe's après-ski institution; live music nightly in ski season; mountain-view deck; 60+ beers and ciders
4969 Mountain Rd, Stowe, VT 05672
Clubs
For dancing into the early hours.
Club Metronome
Cover: $5–15 (USD)
Hours: Thursday–Saturday 10 PM–2 AM
Nightlife tips
Stay safe and have fun.
Most venues warm up after midnight — earlier arrivals get easier entry and shorter queues.
Carry ID, even if you look older — bouncers check at most venues.
Plan your ride home before you go out — last transport runs earlier than the clubs close.