The best bars & nightlife in Burlington

“Slip into The Venetian Soda Lounge for speakeasy vibes, live jazz that actually respects conversation, and cocktails tailored by their mood-reading 'no menu necessary' trick. Zero-proof folks are first-class too with house-made craft sodas, so make it a midweek reset or a date night that lingers.”

From the Burlington newsletter, September 11, 2026

“Sapphic cocktail bar and vinyl lounge Doma Bar is a South End living room, where drinks are built with vision, records spin all the way through, and the room asks nothing of you but to relax. Spanish bar snacks, coquito, seasonal Vermont touches, and zero-proof options keep everyone happy.”

From the Burlington newsletter, September 9, 2026

“Vermont Comedy Club keeps Burlington chuckling with lineups of standup, improv, and sketch, plus a legit food menu and full bar to keep the night rolling. Grab a friend, sink into the vibey lounge, and pick something from their calendar this week.”

From the Burlington newsletter, August 29, 2026

“Whether you're into classic crisp or boundary-pushing blends, Citizen Cider pours it from apples sourced in VT and NY, pressed right here in Burlington. Hit the Press House Pub this week and treat your taste buds to something local and actually interesting.”

From the Burlington newsletter, August 27, 2026

“Settle into The 126 for cocktails that feel tailored to your mood, from crisp classics to inventive sips that sneak up with depth. Weekly jams keep the room lively, so bring a friend, forget the group chat drama, and let the music decide whether you stay for just one more.”

From the Burlington newsletter, August 25, 2026

“The Old Post delivers legit pub grub, 24 domestic and craft beers on tap, and Friday-night live music that heads to the patio with a pro stage when summer hits. Swing by for a pint, a game of pool, and the reliably friendly crowd.”

From the Burlington newsletter, September 10, 2026

“Wilder Wines is your natural wine hangout with rotating bottles from small, sustainable producers and a freshly renovated bar pouring by-the-glass gems, special Vermont picks, and small bites. Pop in to ask questions, taste something new, and peek at events or the Wilder Wine Club.”

From the Burlington newsletter, August 28, 2026

“Craving comfort that actually comforts this week? Rí Rá Irish Pub nails classic Irish fare with locally sourced ingredients, plenty to sip, and a steady lineup of live music, live sports, and weekly trivia.”

From the Burlington newsletter, September 19, 2026

“Bar Renée is a natural wine bar and shop dedicated to additive-free bottles that feel alive on the palate, with shelves spanning wines, beers, ciders, co-ferments, and thoughtful non-alc picks. Slide in this week, discover growers-first pours you’ll actually want to talk about over dinner.”

From the Burlington newsletter, September 20, 2026

“The Flynn keeps Burlington buzzing with international, national, and homegrown performances that turn strangers into neighbors, from concerts and dance to Broadway nights and family shows. Peek at the calendar this week, snag a seat, and let the Main Stage remind you why live art hits different.”

From the Burlington newsletter, August 23, 2026

“Mule Bar nails the Burlington-area sweet spot, with a solid taplist, house cocktails that actually taste like something, and elevated bar eats in a bright blond-wood setting. It’s the place you suggest when everyone says “anywhere is fine,” then ends up staying for another round.”

From the Burlington newsletter, September 4, 2026

“Higher Ground is the all-ages, three-bar hub that reliably books national acts, gives locals solid opening slots, and tosses in sweaty DJ nights for good measure. When plans fall through, check the calendar and you’ll usually find a reason to leave the couch.”

From the Burlington newsletter, September 6, 2026

“T Rugg's Tavern has been pouring since 1980 and still nails that laid-back neighborhood vibe, with Vermont staples like Fiddlehead and Switchback on tap and new events popping up... an easy go-to when you want low-key good times this week.”

From the Burlington newsletter, August 20, 2026

“Equal parts neighborhood bar and nostalgia trip, The Archives pairs a rotating draft list with 24 lines and creative cocktails with vintage pinball and video games, so you can chase high scores, talk a little smack, then swear you’re only staying for one more.”

From the Burlington newsletter, August 31, 2026

“Whether you’re in the mood for live music, theatre, puppetry, poetry, or just a delightfully oddball night with lamps, plants, and a proper dance floor, Light Club Lamp Shop is back to being itself again. Slide in this week, sip something, bump into neighbors, and remember how fun Burlington nights feel.”

From the Burlington newsletter, September 13, 2026

“Devil Takes A Holiday keeps things fresh with a rotating cocktail menu that swings from clever riffs to seasonal originals, all in a space dotted with local art. Perfect midweek reset... slide in, let the pros pour something fun, and call it self care.”

From the Burlington newsletter, August 22, 2026

“Halvorson's Upstreet Cafe has been a Church Street staple for 40+ years, and their Courtyard Music Series is peak Burlington summer... live sets, local brews and ciders, and an easygoing vibe that actually benefits Vermont nonprofits, so you can sip, snack, and feel good about it.”

From the Burlington newsletter, September 18, 2026

“Radio Bean is back to its weirdly wonderful self, pouring drinks, serving tasty bites, and filling the room with live music, theatre, puppetry, poetry, and whatever creative chaos Burlington dreams up. Slide in this week, catch a set, meet a neighbor, remember what community feels like.”

From the Burlington newsletter, September 14, 2026