South Burlington is home to the state's largest airport, Burlington International Airport; the largest mall, University Mall; and the headquarters of Ben & Jerry's. The area now known as South Burlington was first established as part of the Burlington township in 1763. Settlers had been clearing land in the area since 1775, but the American Revolutionary War delayed a more permanent settlement until neighboring Burlington was organized in 1785.
Although South Burlington is Vermont's second most populous city, it only places second because Burlington ranks higher. Together, the two cities make up the Burlington, Vermont, metropolitan area. The distance between the two is only about 2.6 miles from city center to city center.
Today, South Burlington has a mostly service-based economy with various retailers concentrated primarily in the city center close to Williston Road and Dorset Street. The city is also home to numerous health care facilities, technician service industries, scientific companies, and professionals. Major employers include GE Healthcare, Fairpoint Communications, and Ben & Jerry's.
Whatever your reasons for visiting South Burlington, you want to find the right hotel that allows you to explore everything this city has to offer.
When should you travel to South Burlington, VT?
The best time to visit South Burlington is during the festival season from May through September. Vermont always has something happening no matter the season, but key events include Vermont Open Studio Weekend, Strolling of the Heifers Parade & Festival, Burlington Discover Jazz Festival, the Lake Champlain International Fishing Derby, the Vermont Quilt Festival, and the Plymouth Cheese & Harvest Festival.
On the downside, summer is one of the most crowded seasons in Vermont, so try to plan your trip a few weeks in advance and book your hotel early.
Another great time to visit South Burlington is in the winter when the snowboarders and skiers descend on the city. Unlike many vacation destinations, South Burlington's hotel rates increase from December to March due to the area's popular winter activities. You won't encounter as many crowds, but you'll pay a premium to stay anywhere within driving distance of the slopes.
If you need to save money on your trip to South Burlington, plan a trip in the early spring or fall. Vermont experiences much rain in the spring, which is not necessarily a bad thing if you don't mind packing extra layers and some rain boots. Fall is drier than spring with less precipitation, offering a happy medium.
Below is a chart of the current pricing seasonality of hotels and motels in South Burlington, VT:
South Burlington by Star Rating
Below we've posted 3 graphs demonstrating mean price patterns by star rating class in South Burlington, VT. You can use these line graphs to determine the most cost effective seasons to book in South Burlington for your upcoming travels.
Where are the best hotels for luxury in South Burlington?
4 Star Average Prices: $217.56
If you prefer an upscale accommodation with extra amenities, the Burlington metro doesn't disappoint.
Homewood Suites by Hilton Burlington is an all-suite accommodation with a complimentary 24-hour shuttle service. Choose from a one-bedroom or two-bedroom studio with separate living and sleeping areas, a 40-inch high-definition TV, a fully equipped kitchen suitable for cooking, and complimentary internet access. The hotel provides guests with a free hot breakfast each morning as well as free dinner and drinks Monday through Thursday. You can also stock up on snacks at the 24-hour Suite Shop. Other amenities include an indoor pool, hot tub, fitness center, business center, and meeting room.
DoubleTree by Hilton Burlington Vermont is a stylish midtown accommodation with one of the state's largest conference centers. Staff members greet you with a warm chocolate chip cookie, making you feel at home upon arrival. The property features Tuckaway's Burlington Pub, a four-story atrium and courtyard, a 24-hour fitness facility, an indoor pool, an outdoor patio, a business center, high-definition TVs for watching the game with friends, and a large stone fireplace. Guest rooms include 50-inch HDTVs, premium channels, ergonomic work spaces, Keurig coffee makers, free high-speed internet, and premium bedding. Upgrade to a suite to enjoy additional space and amenities.
Prefer to stay in the center of Burlington? Check into Hilton Garden Inn Burlington Downtown. Thoughtfully decorated guest rooms feature ergonomic desk chairs, desk-level electrical outlets, two phone lines, voicemail, a data port, free Wi-Fi, microwaves, mini-fridges, HDTVs, coffee makers, and ironing facilities. Enjoy a variety of hotel amenities such as an indoor pool, fitness center, 24-hour snack pantry, business center, room service, access to a safety deposit box, baggage storage, and a guest laundry facility.
What are the most affordable hotel options in South Burlington, Vermont?
3 Star Average Prices: $167.77
Finding an affordable hotel in South Burlington can be a challenge, but you need to do your research and stay flexible.
Motel 6 Burlington - Colchester VT is a trusted budget-friendly lodging with smoke-free rooms and a seasonal outdoor pool. Enjoy free morning coffee in the lobby, free local calls, and available pet rooms. The modern guest rooms feature wood-effect floors, flat-screen TVs with expanded cable, work spaces, and closets.
Located near Champlain Mall, Quality Inn Colchester/Burlington provides guests with a complimentary hot breakfast, free Wi-Fi, and free coffee and cookies in the lobby. Take advantage of the seasonal outdoor heated pool, fitness center, and full-service business center. Standard in-room amenities include 37-inch flat-screen TVs, ironing facilities, coffee makers, hair dryers, and work desks. Certain rooms feature microwaves and mini-refrigerators.
The Quality Inn Shelburne Vermont is situated about 3 miles from South Burlington, but it provides easy access to the Shelburne Museum, Champlain College, and the University of Vermont. Enjoy a free weekday newspaper, Wi-Fi internet access, a large fitness center, and a heated indoor pool with a spa and sauna. Each guest room offers a microwave, mini-fridge, coffee maker, and flat-screen TV. Certain rooms offer balconies with lake views.
