“Vermont is a small state which makes an enormous difference.” -Mr. Rogers – Just 10 days until #VCIA2022 comes to life! And while we can certainly keep you fed and refreshed while here, I appreciate that some of you may want to venture into the depths of Burlington.  So here are a few spots that come with the “Kevin Seal of Approval.”

Bars:  I am more of a dive bar person than anything else. I love a good juke box and a billiards table that slants just slightly to the left. Any place with ‘tasting notes’ for the beer tends to get a pretty wide berth from me, so…

Lincoln’s: More of a scavenger hunt that a bar.  No signs, and Google Maps is only mildly helpful.  Once you find it and are in, everything is $5 – cash only.  Pepsi? $5. Gin & tonic with a dash of bitters? $5.  You get the picture.

The Olde Northender: Time stood still here in 1974.  Of course, it’s Vermont, so there are two micros on tap to accompany the bottles of Bud Light and cans of PBR.  23 North St, Burlington, VT 05401

Food:  Amusing story, there is a not a Starbucks in downtown Burlington. 

Feldman’s Bagels: A pepper salt and sesame bagel with a schmeer of bacon scallion and horseradish cheese. Open at 06:30, 660 Pine St, Burlington, VT 05401

American Flatbread: ‘It’s not a pizza, it’s a flatbread!’  ‘OK buddy, I’ll get a whatever-you-call-it with the maple fennel sausage and caramelized onions’. 115 St Paul St, Burlington, VT 05401

The Eclectic: Burlington is the natural habitat of all things quirky.

Thirty Odd: Bring home something from Vermont that is not syrup or a T-Shirt.  Local artists and makers with delightful stuff. 270 Pine Street, Burlington, VT 05401

The World’s Biggest Filing Cabinet:  Go and see it, and then ask me, “Why did you send us there?” I’ll buy you a drink if you actually make it to the filing cabinet tower and take a selfie! 220 Flynn Ave, Burlington, VT 05401

You’re bound to have a great time in Burlington when the captive world shortly gathers here! Check out the app (and download it before you arrive!) for more recommendations on your stay. And, there’s still time to register if you or someone you know has been dragging their feet! Save additional money by registering now before on-site registration starts August 5th. Can’t wait to celebrate with you all soon at #VCIA2022!