Take a Break in Burlington
While plenty of our fellow cats are making travel plans for Thanksgiving break (check out UVM’s Long-Distance Travel resources if that includes you!), we know there are a whole lot of us who may find ourselves with a week here in Burlington with no classes. Kinda sounds like the perfect time to cross off some bucket list items before the snow really starts falling, huh? The BORED crew is here to help. We’ve compiled a list of suggestions to help you make the most of this quiet week in our favorite little city!
Visit the Kitty Korner Cafe
There’s a lot to offer in Vermont, and that includes places outside of Burlington. Just about 45 minutes away in Barre is Vermont’s only (and coolest) cat café: Kitty Korner Cafe. For only $5, you can visit a room full of adoptable cats, with all the money going back to their care and health! Their selection of drinks and pastries is also DELICIOUS, so it’s the purrrfect place to spend an afternoon. And while you’re in the area, you can also swing by Montpelier and visit the state house or hike to gorgeous views at Camel’s Hump.
Road Trip to Montreal
Have you wanted to visit Montreal but have been too busy with courses? This is the perfect time to go! No car? No problem. UVM students get a discounted membership with CarShare VT or you can jump on the Greyhound bus right from downtown. There are plenty of affordable hotels and hostels in the city. Just make sure you’re ready to walk! Old Montreal is a must-see if you’re headed up north (and just a 15-minute walk from the Greyhound bus station).
Catch a Show at the Flynn
As the first snow of the season falls on Burlington and the frost starts to nip at your nose, finding things to do inside seems more and more appealing. One activity that is sure to bring an evening of entertainment takes place at The Flynn Theatre. Whether you want to check out the annual Stunt Night, put on by students from Cathedral High School, or start the holiday season with a performance of the Nutcracker, The Flynn is sure to have something that’s up your alley.
Hit the Trail
Looking to get one last hike in before the end of the semester? What better time to hit the trails than over break! Spending time in nature is a great way to relax and unwind, especiallyyy as we approach the start of finals season. For an easier trail close to campus be sure to check out the Red Rocks Park loop trail! Red Rocks is only a 10-minute drive from campus and overlooks our very own Lake Champlain. If you’re searching for a more challenging hike (with BEAUTIFUL views), be sure to plan a day trip to Burnt Rock Mountain. This out-and-back trail is about a 1-hour drive from campus and is a popular spot for birding, hiking, and running. Before heading into the woods, be sure to check the weather and let a buddy know where you’re going (check out AllTrails for frequent trail condition updates)!
Grab a Bite
Want to dive into Burlington’s food scene? Now is your time to try and taste ALL the food (and drink) Burlington has to offer! You can take a 20 walk downtown or use the Transit app to bus around to hit every spot. There are so many fantastic restaurants in the Burlington area that are student budget friendly and delicious (check out our restaurant blog for some recs). Some restaurants might change their hours or require reservations for this upcoming week, so make sure to check online before hitting the town! Also, there are so many local coffee shops that can warm you up during the cold weather. You can check out our previous coffee crawl blogs (2022, 2021, 2019, 2018) as your guide with caffeinated bliss.
Despite all the opportunities that a week off may hold, we also know it can sometimes feel a little lonely without the buzz of classes. Remember that you’re not alone! There are resources through CAPS to support you. And of course, your loveable BOREDies are always around (digitally) to crack some jokes and make you smile, so be sure to follow along on social media. Happy break, cats!
