North Beach Park

On the picturesque shores of Lake Champlain lies North Beach Park—one of the most popular recreation areas in the city of Burlington. This unique public space harmoniously combines sandy beaches, shady paths, and modern infrastructure for active leisure. The park is an integral part of the revitalized waterfront in the USA, offering guests breathtaking views of the water and distant mountain peaks.

As a key link in the Burlington Bike Path network, the park attracts walkers and sports enthusiasts from all over the region. Here, you can not only sunbathe on the clean sand but also explore elements of maritime history, including old lighthouses, or simply watch the graceful yachts moored near the shore. The high rating of this place confirms its status as an ideal location for both family vacations and peaceful contact with nature.

Every convenience has been created for visitors, from equipped picnic areas to modern playgrounds. North Beach Park is more than just a beach; it is the living heart of the city's waterfront, where everyone will find something to enjoy while taking in the fresh lake breeze and atmosphere of tranquility.

For information regarding visiting rules or booking recreational spots at North Beach Park, you can use the official communication channels.

Below are the current contact details for the organization managing the park area in Burlington.

At North Beach Park, everyone will find something to do, regardless of the season. One of the main activities here is walking or cycling along the famous Burlington Bike Path, which passes right through the park. The waterfront offers stunning views of Lake Champlain, while numerous benches and swings allow you to comfortably watch the sun dip below the horizon, painting the mountains in soft hues.

For beach lovers, there are areas for swimming and playing in the sand, and families with children will appreciate the modern playgrounds and open fields for active games. If you prefer water adventures, the proximity to boat rentals makes it possible to rent a kayak or take a short ferry trip to see the city from the water.

History buffs can explore informative plaques telling the story of the region's maritime past and admire local lighthouses. The park is also an excellent base for picnics, with special tables set up overlooking the moored yachts. During the winter, the park transforms into a quiet place for peaceful walks in the fresh air, and the proximity to cozy city restaurants makes it easy to end a full day with a pleasant dinner.

North Beach Park is conveniently located on the shores of Lake Champlain, almost in the very heart of the city. If you are near the Church Street Marketplace, a walk to the park will take about 15–20 minutes (approximately 1 mile). The park is also easily accessible by bicycle via the scenic Burlington Bike Path.

For those who prefer public transport, there are buses in Burlington that stop in the immediate vicinity of the waterfront. In the summer season, visiting the park becomes even more accessible thanks to convenient pedestrian links with the city's main tourist arteries.

If you are driving from Burlington International Airport (BTV), the trip will take about 10–15 minutes via I-189, which leads to the waterfront. Free parking is available on-site, though it's worth noting that it fills up very quickly on hot weekend days, so it is best to plan your arrival for the morning hours. For water enthusiasts, access is also available from the lake by kayak or boat.

The history of the waterfront where North Beach Park stands today is closely linked to the region's economic boom in the 19th century. After the opening of the Champlain Canal in 1823, Burlington became one of the largest lumber ports in North America. To create space for warehouses and railroads, the shoreline was actively expanded using stone-filled wooden cribs.

The lake's waters serve as a reminder of this bustling maritime past: shipwrecks still lie beneath the breakwater. One of the most famous artifacts is the O.J. Walker, which sank in 1895. However, by the mid-20th century, industrial activity had faded, leaving behind contaminated land and oil terminals that were closed to the public.

The transformation of this area began in the 1970s and 1980s, thanks to the initiative of local residents and city authorities. Then-Mayor Bernie Sanders played a significant role in returning the shore to the people. After extensive environmental reviews and the removal of industrial facilities in the 1990s, green zones, bike paths, and modern recreational spaces appeared on the former brownfields, turning the industrial zone into the city's crown jewel.

For a brief introduction to North Beach Park and a short walk along the coast, 1–1.5 hours is usually sufficient. This is enough time to enjoy the panorama of the lake and take some beautiful photos of the mountains on the horizon.

If you plan to have a picnic, cycle along the famous Burlington Bike Path, or spend time on the beach, we recommend setting aside 3 to 5 hours. A full day at the park is an excellent choice for a family getaway, as the infrastructure allows you to combine active games with relaxed sunset viewing.

North Beach Park is open to visitors daily, offering a convenient schedule for morning jogs and evening sunset strolls.

Official park operating hours:

• Monday: 07:00 – 18:00
• Tuesday: 07:00 – 18:00
• Wednesday: 07:00 – 18:00
• Thursday: 07:00 – 18:00
• Friday: 07:00 – 18:00
• Saturday: 07:00 – 18:00
• Sunday: 07:00 – 18:00

Please note that operating hours may vary slightly depending on the season and weather conditions.

Exploring the surroundings of North Beach Park will allow you to deeper experience the atmosphere of the Vermont coast. Nearby, you will find both natural sanctuaries and historical maritime sites that perfectly complement your walk along the lake.

Many of these attractions are within walking distance or a short bike ride along the waterfront, offering great opportunities for photo sessions and peaceful nature contemplation.