Perkins Pier
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Perkins Pier

4.5
·235 reviews·Burlington, United States

A picturesque pier and park on Lake Champlain, offering stunning sunsets, access to scenic bike paths, and a vibrant community atmosphere.

Highlights

Highlights

Must-see attractions

Social content

Social

From TikTok & Reddit

Best Time

Summer evenings

Perfect for sunsets & skating

CrowdMedium
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Perkins Pier

Perkins Pier

Best Time

Summer evenings

Perfect for sunsets & skating

CrowdMedium
Highlights

Highlights

Must-see attractions

A picturesque pier and park on Lake Champlain, offering stunning sunsets, access to scenic bike paths, and a vibrant community atmosphere.

4.5
(235 reviews)

"Awesome pier and park with a fantastic view of Lake Champlain, the Adirondacks, and a great sunset spot that faces west!"

Vertical photo
TIP

🅿️ Parking Savvy

Watch out for parking tickets! Metered parking often ends around 6 PM on Sundays.

🚴 Bike Path Bliss

Rent a bike and cruise the scenic rec path for miles along Lake Champlain.

Third hero image

Highlights

Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences

Lake Champlain Sunsets

Lake Champlain Sunsets

Western edge of the pier

Witness breathtaking sunsets over Lake Champlain with the Adirondack Mountains as a backdrop. A truly magical experience.

Instagram
Public Art Installation

Public Art Installation

Near the park entrance

Discover 'Deep Conversations,' a whimsical otter sculpture by Ryan Mays, inviting smiles and connection with nature.

Instagram
Recreational Path Access

Recreational Path Access

Adjacent to the pier

Connect to miles of scenic bike and walking paths along the lake, perfect for active exploration.

Reddit
Roller Skating Vibes

Roller Skating Vibes

The pier itself

Experience the joy of roller skating with stunning aerial views, especially magical during golden hour.

Instagram
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Planning Your Visit

Parking Pointers

Be mindful of parking regulations at Perkins Pier, as tickets can be issued even on Sunday evenings. Arrive early or check parking meter times to avoid fines. Reddit

Embrace the Outdoors

Perkins Pier is a fantastic spot for outdoor activities. Bring your bike to explore the extensive rec path along Lake Champlain, or simply enjoy a leisurely stroll. Reddit

Best Times

When
Summer evenings
Why
Perfect for sunsets & skating
Crowd
Medium
When
Weekday mornings
Why
Quieter for strolls & wildlife
Crowd
Low
When
Sunday evenings (after 6 PM)
Why
Free parking & sunset views
Crowd
Medium

Insider Tips

from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit

Golden hour aerial over Perkins Pier! Sunset Roller Skating! ☀️🤍✨🛼🚁 @uavtours #rollerskating #dronevideo
flowfightroll
33 likes • 760 views

🅿️ Parking Savvy

Watch out for parking tickets! Metered parking often ends around 6 PM on Sundays. Reddit

🚴 Bike Path Bliss

Rent a bike and cruise the scenic rec path for miles along Lake Champlain. Reddit

Take a stroll to Perkins Pier Park and say hello to Burlington’s newest public art installation, “Deep Conversations”. Whimsical work that invites us all to pause, smile, and connect with nature. 🦦✨ Created by Montpelier artist Ryan Mays “Deep Conversations” depicts two playful otters perched on a Vermont stone boulder. A delightful addition to the park and our city. Commissioned by local donor...
btvcityarts
652 likes • 11.2K views
Some of our crew cleaning up around Perkins Pier today! We painted the bathroom doors, weeded the steps, fixed some holes by the dock with rocks, and power washed the ramp to the bathroom. Lots of hard work today!! #btvboathouse
btvboathouse
67 likes • 1.5K views

🌅 Sunset Spectacle

The west-facing pier offers incredible sunset views over the lake. Instagram

🐾 Pet-Friendly Fun

Bring your furry friends along to enjoy the walking trails and open spaces. Reddit

"A litter of minks spotted at Perkins Pier in Burlington", 🎥: Margo Martinez, sent to our website.
wcaxtv
2.3K likes • 39.7K views

Tips

from all over the internet

🅿️ Parking Savvy

Watch out for parking tickets! Metered parking often ends around 6 PM on Sundays. Reddit

🚴 Bike Path Bliss

Rent a bike and cruise the scenic rec path for miles along Lake Champlain. Reddit

🌅 Sunset Spectacle

The west-facing pier offers incredible sunset views over the lake. Instagram

🐾 Pet-Friendly Fun

Bring your furry friends along to enjoy the walking trails and open spaces. Reddit

🎨 Artful Encounters

Look for the charming 'Deep Conversations' otter sculpture near the park. Instagram

What Travellers Say

4.5
(235 reviews)

Reviews Summary

Visitors praise Perkins Pier for its stunning sunset views over Lake Champlain and the Adirondacks, its accessibility, and its connection to the scenic bike path. It's noted as a pet-friendly spot with a nice park area for families. However, some caution is advised regarding parking regulations and potential ticketing.

"Be careful where you park, you will get ticked, even on a Sunday evening! The park is a nice place to see the water, they do have a place for kids to play, and you have access to the bike path. There are benches for sitting and it is wheelchair accessible!"

Jen Garrison

"❤️ beautiful. Turn around and look back at the cool lakefront town we live in. Historical. Pet-friendly, walking trails train tracks, so much to look at. Oh and geese"

Nancy Young

"Awesome pier and park with a fantastic view of Lake Champlain, the Adirondacks, and a great sunset spot that faces west!"

Philip Yazbak

What People Like

Beautiful sunset views
Scenic bike path access
Family-friendly park

What People Dislike

Strict parking enforcement

Frequently Asked Questions

🚇 🗺️ Getting There

Perkins Pier is easily accessible by car, bike, or on foot. It's located along the Burlington Greenway bike path, making it a popular stop for cyclists. If driving, be aware of parking regulations and meter times. Reddit

While there isn't direct bus service to the pier itself, it's a short walk from downtown Burlington, which is well-served by public transportation. The pier is also a key point on the extensive Burlington Greenway. Reddit

Yes, bike rentals are available nearby, such as from Local Motion, allowing you to easily access Perkins Pier and explore the scenic bike path along Lake Champlain. Reddit

Walking or biking the Burlington Greenway is highly recommended. It offers beautiful views and a direct route to the pier from various points in Burlington. Reddit

Amtrak offers train service to Burlington. From the train station, you can take a taxi, rideshare, or bike to Perkins Pier, which is a popular destination for day-trippers. Reddit

🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry

Perkins Pier and the surrounding park are free to access. There are no admission fees to enjoy the waterfront, walking paths, or public art. Instagram

Perkins Pier is generally open to the public from dawn until dusk. Specific facilities like restrooms may have limited hours, but the park and pier are accessible year-round. Instagram

Parking at Perkins Pier is metered and enforced. Be sure to check the signage for operating hours and fees, as tickets can be issued, especially during peak times. Some sources indicate parking may be free after 6 PM on Sundays. Reddit

There's no need to book anything in advance for general access to Perkins Pier. It's a public space meant for everyone to enjoy freely. Instagram

While Perkins Pier itself is a public park, the adjacent Boathouse sometimes hosts events. It's best to check local listings for any specific happenings. Instagram

🎫 🏞️ Onsite Experience

You can enjoy roller skating, fishing, bird watching (look for minks and geese!), walking or biking the greenway, admiring public art, and simply relaxing while taking in the beautiful lake views. InstagramReddit+2

Yes, Perkins Pier has a designated play area for children and offers plenty of open space for them to run around. The calm waters and accessible paths are also great for families. Reddit

Keep an eye out for various bird species, including geese. Minks have also been spotted in the area, adding to the natural charm of the location. Instagram+1

The park and pier are designed to be wheelchair accessible, with paved paths and ramps making it easy for everyone to enjoy the waterfront. Reddit

The pier offers fantastic opportunities for sunset photos, panoramic views of Lake Champlain and the Adirondacks, and capturing the public art installations. Drone footage during golden hour is also spectacular. Instagram+1

🍽️ 🍽️ Food & Dining

There are no dining establishments directly on Perkins Pier itself. However, the nearby waterfront area and downtown Burlington offer a wide variety of restaurants, cafes, and eateries to choose from. Instagram

Absolutely! Perkins Pier has benches and picnic tables, making it an ideal spot for a picnic lunch or snack while enjoying the lake views. Reddit

You'll find everything from casual cafes to fine dining in downtown Burlington, a short distance from Perkins Pier. Options include seafood, American cuisine, and international flavors. Instagram

There are no dedicated vendors for snacks or drinks directly at Perkins Pier. It's advisable to bring your own refreshments or plan to purchase them in downtown Burlington. Instagram

While not a regular occurrence, food trucks can sometimes be found in the vicinity, especially during local events or in the warmer months. It's best to check local event schedules. Instagram

📸 📸 Photography

Golden hour, especially during sunset, offers stunning light for photography. Early mornings can also provide beautiful, serene shots of the lake. Instagram+1

The pier itself, the expansive views of Lake Champlain and the Adirondacks, the public art installation, and the surrounding greenway are all excellent subjects. Instagram+2

Drone usage is possible, and videos showcase incredible aerial views, particularly during sunset. Always be aware of local drone regulations and privacy considerations. Instagram

A wide-angle lens is great for capturing the expansive lake views. A telephoto lens can be useful for wildlife spotting. A tripod is recommended for sunset shots. Instagram+1

Generally, photography is permitted for personal use. Be respectful of other visitors and any private property or events. Instagram

For Different Travelers

Tailored advice for your travel style

👨‍👩‍👧 Families with Kids

Perkins Pier is a fantastic destination for families. It features a dedicated play area for children, ensuring they have a fun space to explore. The accessible paths are great for strollers, and the open green spaces allow kids to run and play freely. Reddit

Parents can enjoy the beautiful lake views while keeping an eye on their children. The pier is also a safe place for kids to try fishing or simply watch the water. Remember to pack snacks and drinks, as dining options are limited directly at the pier. InstagramReddit

🚴 Active Adventurers

For those who love to be active, Perkins Pier is a gateway to the Burlington Greenway. Rent a bike and cycle for miles along the scenic lakefront, enjoying stunning views and fresh air. Reddit

The pier itself is also a popular spot for roller skating, especially during the golden hour for a truly magical experience. Whether you're biking, running, or skating, Perkins Pier offers a perfect starting point for your outdoor adventures. Instagram

📸 Photographers & Sunset Lovers

Perkins Pier is a dream location for photographers, particularly those chasing spectacular sunsets. The unobstructed western views over Lake Champlain and the Adirondacks provide endless opportunities for breathtaking shots. InstagramReddit

Bring your camera and tripod to capture the vibrant colors of the sky. Drone photography also offers unique aerial perspectives of the pier and the surrounding landscape during the golden hour. Instagram

Deep Dives

In-depth insights and expert knowledge

Exploring the Burlington Greenway

Perkins Pier serves as a key access point to the Burlington Greenway, a paved multi-use path stretching for miles along the Lake Champlain shoreline. This path is a haven for cyclists, runners, and walkers, offering continuous scenic views of the water and the Adirondack Mountains. Renting a bike from a local outfitter is a popular way to experience the Greenway, allowing you to cover more ground and discover hidden coves and viewpoints. Reddit

Travelers often rave about the ease of access and the well-maintained nature of the path. It's a fantastic way to connect with the natural beauty of the area and get some exercise. Whether you're looking for a leisurely stroll or an invigorating bike ride, the Greenway from Perkins Pier provides an unforgettable experience. Reddit

Keep an eye out for various wildlife along the path, including numerous bird species and even occasional sightings of minks. The path is also dotted with benches and rest areas, perfect for pausing to soak in the atmosphere or enjoy a packed lunch. Instagram+1

The Magic of Sunset at Perkins Pier

Perkins Pier is renowned as one of the premier sunset viewing spots in Burlington, Vermont. Its western-facing orientation over Lake Champlain provides unobstructed, panoramic vistas of the sun dipping below the horizon, often painting the sky in vibrant hues of orange, pink, and purple. The Adirondack Mountains in the distance serve as a dramatic silhouette against the colorful sky, creating a truly picturesque scene. InstagramReddit

Many visitors specifically come to Perkins Pier with the sole intention of witnessing this daily spectacle. The atmosphere during sunset can be quite lively, with people gathering to watch, take photos, and simply enjoy the moment. It's a popular spot for couples, photographers, and anyone seeking a moment of natural beauty. InstagramReddit

For the best experience, aim to arrive about an hour before sunset to secure a good spot and capture the changing light. The pier itself offers a unique vantage point, and the adjacent park provides ample space to relax and enjoy the show. Drone footage captured during this time highlights the breathtaking scale of the sunset over the lake. Instagram

Public Art and Community Spirit

Beyond its natural beauty, Perkins Pier also boasts a touch of artistic flair with its public art installations. The sculpture 'Deep Conversations' by artist Ryan Mays, depicting two playful otters on a Vermont stone boulder, is a delightful and whimsical addition that invites interaction and smiles from visitors of all ages. Instagram

This artwork reflects the community's commitment to enhancing public spaces and fostering a connection with nature. It's a perfect spot for a quick photo opportunity and adds an element of surprise and charm to the pier experience. Instagram

Furthermore, the spirit of community is evident in efforts like the cleanup initiatives undertaken by groups such as the BTV Boathouse, who actively work to maintain the beauty and functionality of the pier and its facilities. Instagram

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