Vermont is a small New England state of extraordinary natural beauty, famous for fiery fall foliage, world-class ski resorts, covered wooden bridges, and a thriving farm-to-table food culture. Burlington, its largest city, sits on the eastern shore of Lake Champlain and buzzes with craft breweries and independent shops. From the rolling Green Mountains to maple-syrup farms and award-winning cheese dairies, Vermont rewards travelers who seek authenticity over spectacle.
Vermont's nightlife scene is modest compared to major US cities but authentic and often excellent. Burlington is the nightlife hub, anchored by Church Street and the Pearl Street bar corridor. Live music is central — Vermont has a remarkable music culture, with nationally touring acts stopping at Higher Ground and intimate venues like Radio Bean and Nectar's (where Phish got their start). Craft brewery taprooms double as social hubs. Stowe has a lively après-ski scene in winter on Mountain Road. Vermont bars close at 2 AM.
Nightlife districts
Where the action happens after dark.
Bars & pubs
Where locals drink.
Juniper Bar at Hotel Vermont
Known for: All-Vermont spirits craft cocktails; curated local beers; Lake Champlain views
41 Cherry St, Burlington, VT 05401
Drink (Burlington)
Known for: Craft cocktails; intimate bar atmosphere; Vermont spirits focus
135 St Paul St, Burlington, VT 05401
Zero Gravity Craft Brewery
Known for: Award-winning Vermont craft beer (Conehead IPA, Little Wolf); large outdoor beer garden
716 Pine St, Burlington, VT 05401
Nectar's (Nectars)
Known for: Vermont music legend — where Phish got their start; live music nightly; famous Nectar's gravy fries
188 Main St, Burlington, VT 05401
Higher Ground
Known for: Vermont's premier live music venue; national and regional acts; capacity 600+
1214 Williston Rd, South Burlington, VT 05403
Radio Bean
Known for: Eclectic Burlington music cafe; live music almost every night (folk, jazz, indie, bluegrass); coffee by day, beer/wine by night
8 N Winooski Ave, Burlington, VT 05401
McGillicuddy's Pub
Known for: Stowe's liveliest après-ski bar; live music weekends; 20+ draft beers; Irish pub atmosphere
5084 Main St, Stowe, VT 05672
The Matterhorn Bar & Restaurant
Known for: Stowe's après-ski institution; live music nightly in ski season; mountain-view deck; 60+ beers and ciders
4969 Mountain Rd, Stowe, VT 05672
Clubs
For dancing into the early hours.
Club Metronome
Cover: $5–15 (USD)
Hours: Thursday–Saturday 10 PM–2 AM
Nightlife tips
Stay safe and have fun.
Most venues warm up after midnight — earlier arrivals get easier entry and shorter queues.
Carry ID, even if you look older — bouncers check at most venues.
Plan your ride home before you go out — last transport runs earlier than the clubs close.