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| Travel with Hip Chick Zine to Burlington, Vermont |
| Burlington is not only one of the safest and cleanest cities in the United States, but it is also a very artsy, laid-back and culturally aware locale. The youthful city (it hosts the University of Vermont, among other smaller colleges) is often recognized as having one of the most lively Main Street districts in America, being one of the "10 Great Places to Raise a Family," as well as being referred to as "America's Dream Town." Nestled between the Winooski River and Lake Champlain, Burlington is an ideal destination if you'd like to split your time between cruising the shops and hiking the beautiful, green mountains. Since this fabulous city is near the Hip Chick Zine's headquarters, we let you in on the places to visit to get the most authentic and hip Vermont experience. SITES 1. BEN AND JERRY'S FACTORY- While the factory is not in Burlington, it's well worth the mini trip. Devoted ice cream fans will enjoy the factory tour that includes free samples. It starts with a 7-minute video about how Ben and Jerry's came about (two childhood friends!), from there into the messanine, where you will see the manufacturing in process, and finally, the sampling room, which is our favorite part! Head to the gift shop to score some cool Vermont gear. 2. THE FLYNN THEATRE- Vermont's premier theater, this performance space has hosted an eclectic array of productions and concerts. To see what's going on while you're in Burlington, call them at (802)863-5966. 3. LAKE CHAMPLAIN WATERFRONT- The lake is absolutely breathtaking any season, any time of day, but it never hurts to catch a sunset there. Sit on a park bench overlooking the water or even go sailing on the beautiful waves. 4. CHURCH STREET- The most famous street in the city, Church Street (pictured in the photographs at right) brings you the charm of Old World Europe. Burlington is roughly an hour from Montreal, and Northern Vermont's French influences and accents are prevalent in the outdoor cafes, stylish boutiques and brick pedestrian walkways. While Church Street hosts an array of chain stores including Banana Republic, The Body Shop and Urban Outfitters, check out the wonderfully unique independent stores including Ecco (beautiful clothing, jewelry and shoes) and Downtown Discs (a very afforable second-hand CD and DVD store). The nightlife is wonderful along this street-- a great place to meet new people! During the summer, there are often street vendors, comedy acts and concerts. |
| READ BEFORE YOU GO: If you come to Vermont, leave the SUVs and gadgets at home. Most Vermonters have made the conscious decision to live a more simplistic, energy-efficient lifestyle and throwing your gadgets around will only be irritating, not impressive. Trust me, no hip chick wants to be referred to as a "flat-lander!" |
| EATS In our opinion, you have to taste what the local restaurants and cafes have to offer. Dive into the city, face first! 1. LEUNIG'S BISTRO- You cannot go to Burlington without sampling the menu from this old world, French-inspired restaurant. Between the marble bar, crystal chandeliers and colorful, European posters, this is one classy, but reasonably priced, restaurant. The divine menu changes seasonally and there's live music Wednesday and Thursday nights. During the warm months, there's beautiful outdoor seating right on Church Street. We'd recommend making reservations on the weekends. 115 Church St. (802)863-3759 2. MIRABELLE'S- If you love cafe fare, you will adore this wonderful eatery. There are shelves of fresh pastries and warm breads, including fruits tarts, custards and flourless chocolate tortes. They have wonderful, nutritious salads and sandwiches and the lunch specials change daily. Mirabelle's is closed on Sundays. 198 Main St. (802)658-3074 3. THREE TOMATOES TRATTORIA- This is a fantastic Italian restaurant with a variety of pastas including penne with spinach and artichokes in a white wine sauce, wood-fired pizzas and meat dishes. Ask your server about their extensive wine list and start the meal off with a delicious salad or bruschetta. 83 Church St. (802)660-9533 4. KLINGER'S BREAD BAKERY AND CAFE- Klinger's bread is reknowned across the state. Definitely visit the bakery and cafe if you have a car (it's in South Burlington). Their sandwiches are made on their moist and crusty breads, or get a treat to accompany a steaming chai tea latte. 10 Farrell St., S. Burlington (802)860-6322 |