FALL WEEKEND GETAWAY - BURLINGTON, VERMONT
I'm excited to share a weekend travel guide to Burlington, Vermont with you! My blogger bestie Carlyle Thornton and I made a trip up to Burlington/Essex to experience everything they have to offer during their peak foliage season. We went over the first weekend of November but slightly missed prime time. So, if you're planning your trip I would recommend going in mid October for the best foliage! We will definitely be going back next year. Needless to say it was still breathtaking! This was mine and Carlyle's first trip together (it won't be the last!) and we had the BEST time despite the 24 hour downpour. Make sure to follow Carlyle if you're not already - she has some of the best reads on her Blog and shares amazing finds on her Instagram! Now onto all the details!
WHERE TO STAY:
We stayed at the quaint and charming Essex Resort and Spa. I couldn't think of a more perfect place to stay in Burlington! It's tucked away from the city surrounded by the most beautiful scenery and all the foliage you can dream of. The resort is culinary focused and extremely well known in Vermont, so of course their food is AMAZING. From the lobby cafe and bakery to the gift shop featuring items made only in Vermont, to their two outstanding restaurants, Junction and The Tavern - they have everything you could want! The lobby is warm and welcoming with multiple fireplaces and lounging areas, perfect for unplugging from the outside world and enjoying your morning coffee. Their guest accommodations are culinary themed which ties in the aesthetic of the resort and oh so cozy. Each room is accompanied with their own personal fireplace and picturesque views.
We had the opportunity to attend a pop up dinner at their restaurant Junction, hosted by a top rated chef. It was an unforgettable dining experience. 5 courses, wine pairings, and an open kitchen setting with personal touches from the chef himself. The Essex hosts pop up dinners several times through out the year. I highly recommend going to one if you can get a ticket!
Be sure to check out The Essex website to see what they have going on at the resort during your stay!
WHAT TO DO:
Church Street: This is the central location of downtown Burlington and happening area for all things shopping and dining. Take a walk through the open air market place and stop by Vermont Flannel Co. for the cutest souvenirs (I got a sweater for my dog!) and the Ben and Jerry's ice cream shop - originated in Burlington.
Boardwalk & Waterfront Park: Watch the boats come into the harbor and take in a gorgeous view of the lighthouse at sunset.
Fall Foliage: This is the number one reason to make a trip to Vermont during their peak season. The fall foliage is something you have to experience at lease once in your lifetime! The colors of the leaves is like nothing I've ever seen before. We can't wait to go back next year.
WHERE TO EAT & DRINK:
• Dining at The Essex is hard to beat. Make sure you try the breakfast/brunch at The Tavern. Get the eggs benedict and waffle with Vermont maple syrup (have to try allll the syrup)!
• Leuig's: We were looking for the perfect place on Church Street for drinks and we found it! It's a french bistro that serves the best warm cocktails. We got the spiked Vermont coffee and hot apple cider. SO GOOD!
• City Market: We looked everywhere for apple cider donuts and found them here! We got the last one and had to split it - worth it.
Sharing some photos from our trip and outfit details below!
Our stay at The Essex was comped in exchange for blog and social media coverage we provided of the resort. Opinions are my own and I am not being compensated for this post. Thank you to The Essex for hosting us!
- Campbell