America’s smallest biggest city is surprisingly wild
America’s Smallest Biggest City is Surprisingly Wild
America s smallest biggest city is surprisingly – Burlington, Vermont, may claim the title of the state’s largest city, yet it remains the smallest major population hub in the United States. This unique duality offers visitors a blend of urban convenience and the tranquility of nature, creating a rare escape that feels both modern and timeless. For those seeking a break from the hustle of city life, Burlington delivers an unexpected mix of community charm and natural wonders, all within a manageable footprint.
A City Shaped by Change
Christine Tyler Hill, a crossing guard and artist based in Burlington’s Old North End, describes the city as a place where people genuinely invest in their surroundings. “Here is this place where people care a lot,” she remarks, highlighting the deep civic involvement that defines the area. Her hand-printed newsletter, The Cloud Report, which gained traction on TikTok earlier this year, captures the essence of daily life in Burlington. The city’s small-town vibe is palpable, with its tight-knit neighborhoods and a cultural scene that thrives on local engagement.
“Six degrees of separation? In Burlington it’s two degrees,” Hill adds, underscoring the interconnectedness of its residents. Whether it’s the weekly Burlington Farmers Market, where fresh produce and artisan crafts come together, or the Vermont Brewers Festival in July, which invites attendees to sample craft brews, the city’s community-driven spirit is on full display. Even the Art Hop in September, a weekend event featuring open studios and live music, reflects this ethos.
Burlington’s history as a college town dates back to 1791, when Revolutionary War leader Ira Allen founded the University of Vermont. This legacy continues to shape the city’s cultural landscape, with students adding a dynamic energy to local businesses and events. The downtown area, known for its pedestrian-friendly streets, becomes a hub of activity during warmer months, as tables overflow sidewalks and shops bustle with visitors.
From Shipping Port to Countercultural Hub
While Burlington’s current identity is often linked to its quirky, left-leaning reputation, this wasn’t always the case. In the early 1800s, the city was a bustling shipping and lumber port, its Lake Champlain wharves teeming with goods. But by the 1960s and 1970s, a wave of countercultural youth began transforming the city’s character. These “back-to-the-landers” brought a new wave of progressive ideals, leaving a lasting imprint on Burlington’s politics and culture.
“A lot of what makes Burlington special now is all the things that crazy hippies did decades ago,” Hill notes, reflecting on the city’s evolution. This shift was particularly evident in the 1981 mayoral election, where Bernie Sanders, then a young idealist, won office on a socialist platform. Long before he became the beloved senator known for his iconic mittens and progressive rhetoric, Sanders’ leadership revitalized Burlington, including the creation of Waterfront Park—a 45-acre space that once lay abandoned along the industrial shore of Lake Champlain.
Today, Waterfront Park is a popular destination for outdoor enthusiasts, offering scenic views and access to the lake. On sunny days, boats from the Community Sailing Center and Whistling Man Schooner Co. dot the waters, while families explore the ECHO, Leahy Center for Lake Champlain. This experiential science museum allows visitors to encounter native wildlife, such as spotted turtles and bullfrogs, or listen to tales of Champ, the elusive lake monster said to be the inspiration for the city’s collegiate baseball team mascot.
Urban Adventures and Green Spaces
With over 50% of its land designated as open space, Burlington is a haven for nature lovers and urban explorers alike. The Burlington Greenway, an eight-mile paved path, serves as the city’s primary route for cyclists and pedestrians, winding along the shores of New England’s largest lake. Beyond the greenway, the journey continues on an elevated causeway that spans Lake Champlain, offering panoramic vistas of the Green Mountains and the Adirondacks to the north.
Travelers can further experience the city’s community spirit by taking a small bicycle ferry organized by the Local Motion nonprofit. This service transports cyclists to South Hero, an island known for its vineyards, orchards, and lakeside accommodations. For those interested in aquatic activities, the Burlington Surf Club hosts summer camps focused on wing foil, using inflatable wings to maneuver boards with hydrofoils. The city also boasts low-key parks and the SAVU Lakeside pop-up sauna, blending relaxation with the outdoors.
As the seasons change, Burlington’s natural offerings remain consistent. In winter, the Arthur Park cattail-lined pond transforms into an icy playground, where skaters glide, hockey players compete, and foxes and otters leave trails in the snow. The city’s commitment to preserving open space ensures that nature remains an integral part of daily life, even in the heart of an urban setting.
Legacy and Future
Burlington’s history is a tapestry of transformation, from its 1770s European settlement to its role as a college town and later a cultural beacon. The impact of this evolution is evident in its festivals, parks, and community initiatives. The Burlington Bike Park, which opened last fall, exemplifies the city’s ongoing dedication to outdoor recreation, with trails designed for all skill levels. Whether it’s the vibrant summer events or the serene winter landscapes, Burlington offers a diverse array of experiences that cater to every traveler’s interests.
As Zoe Richards, director of Burlington Wildways, explains, the city’s natural spaces are a defining feature. “There are just fantastic natural places,” she says, emphasizing the coalition’s efforts to protect these areas. This balance between urban life and the environment is what makes Burlington stand out, providing a unique setting where modernity and nature coexist. Whether you’re exploring its historic sites, engaging with its local community, or simply soaking in the scenic beauty, Burlington invites you to discover its wild charm in a way that feels both authentic and accessible.
